Search

Nitrogen (N) plays a critical role in the functioning of key amino acids and synthetic enzymes responsible for the various stages of lignin biosynthesis. However, the precise mechanisms through which N influences lignin biosynthesis have not been fully elucidated. This scoping review explores how lignin biosynthesis responds to N in plants. A systematic search of the literature in several databases was conducted using relevant keywords. Only 44 of the 1842 selected studies contained a range of plant species, experimental conditions, and research approaches. Lignin content, structure, and biosynthetic pathways in response to N are discussed, and possible response mechanisms of lignin under low N are proposed. Among the selected studies, 64.52% of the studies reter to lignin content found a negative correlation between N availability and lignin content. Usually, high N decreases the lignin content, delays cell lignification, increases p‐hydroxyphenyl propane (H) monomer content, and regulates lignin synthesis through the expression of key genes (PAL, 4CL, CCR, CAD, COMT, LAC, and POD) encoding miRNAs and transcription factors (e.g., MYB, bHLH). N deficiency enhances lignin synthesis through the accumulation of phenylpropanoids, phenolics, and soluble carbohydrates, and indirect changes in phytohormones, secondary metabolites, etc. This review provides new insights and important references for future studies on the regulation of lignin biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Affected by the Earth's atmosphere, the image of a primary and satellite system may appear unresolved, such as the dwarf planet Haumea system. It is found by experiments that neither the two-dimensional Gaussian nor modified moment centering algorithms can accurately measure the photocenter of an image of unresolved primary and satellite system observed. This work investigates a specific centering algorithm to accurately measure the photocenter, which would be helpful to derive some physical parameters (e.g. orbital parameters and mass). Taking the dwarf planet Haumea and its brighter satellite Hi'iaka as an example, we simulate the motion of the photocenter with different seeings. We find that the photocenter of system changes significantly with seeings (∼0.074″ with the different seeings of 1″ and 3″) when using the two-dimensional Gaussian centering algorithm. However, the modified moment centering algorithm can accurately measure the photocenter of system without noises, but when noises are added its accuracy will be greatly influenced by noises. In this work, a new centering algorithm is proposed, which can accurately measure the photocenter with less influence of seeings and noises. Observations of dwarf planet Haumea taken over 25 nights are used to test the effectiveness of our proposed method. Compared with using two-dimensional Gaussian centering algorithm, the fitted parameter is slightly more accurate with less positional fitting errors when using the proposed method in this work. This method can also be applied to the centering of binary stars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to compare the pre- and post-operative vestibular and equilibrium functions of patients with cholesteatoma-induced labyrinthine fistulas who underwent different management methods. Methods: Data from 49 patients with cholesteatoma-induced labyrinthine fistulas who underwent one of three surgical procedures were retrospectively analysed. The three management options were fistula repair, obliteration and canal occlusion. Results: Patients underwent fistula repair (n = 8), canal occlusion (n = 18) or obliteration procedures (n = 23). Patients in the fistula repair and canal occlusion groups suffered from post-operative vertigo and imbalance, which persisted for longer than in those in the obliteration group. Despite receiving different management strategies, all patients achieved complete recovery of equilibrium functions through persistent efforts in rehabilitation exercises. Conclusion: Complete removal of the cholesteatoma matrix overlying the fistula is reliable for preventing iatrogenic hearing deterioration due to unremitting labyrinthitis. Thus, among the three fistula treatments, obliteration is the optimal method for preserving post-operative vestibular functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eu3+/Tb3+-co-doped CaWO4 phosphors were synthesized by a simple green co-precipitation process. The structure of the samples was investigated by X-ray diffraction. The photoluminescence spectra and fluorescence decay lifetimes of the samples were measured to investigate the luminescence properties. We analyzed the energy transfer process between Eu3+- and Tb3+-doped CaWO4. As the Tb3+ to Eu3+ energy transfer process was confirmed, Eu3+- and Tb3+-co-doped CaWO4 phosphors showed a color-tunable emission from green to red under a 365-nm UV lamp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The colour of a star is a critical feature to reflect its physical property such as the temperature. The colour index is usually obtained via absolute photometry, which is demanding for weather conditions and instruments. In this work, we present an astrometric method to measure the catalogue-matched colour index of an object based on the effect of differential colour refraction (DCR). Specifically, we can observe an object using only one filter or alternately using two different filters. Through the difference of the DCR effect compared with reference stars, the catalogue-matched colour index of an object can be conveniently derived. Hence, we can perform DCR calibration and obtain its accurate and precise positions even if observed with Null filter during a large range of zenith distances, by which the limiting magnitude and observational efficiency of the telescope can be significantly improved. This method takes advantage of the DCR effect and builds a link between astrometry and photometry. In practice, we measure the colour indices and positions of Himalia (the sixth satellite of Jupiter) using 857 CCD frames over 8 nights by two telescopes. Totally, the mean colour index BP − RP (Gaia photometric system) of Himalia is 0.750 ± 0.004 mag. Through the rotational phased colour index analysis, we find two places with their colour indices exceeding the mean ± 3σ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of Gaia catalogue is revolutionary to the astronomy of Solar system objects. After some effects such as atmospheric refraction and CCD geometric distortion have been taken into account, the astrometric precision for ground-based telescopes can reach the level of tens of milli-arcseconds (mas). If an object approaches a reference star in a small relative angular distance (less than 100 arcsec), which is called close approach event in this work, the relative positional precision between the object and reference star will be further improved since the systematic effects of atmospheric turbulence and local telescope optics can be reduced. To obtain the precise position of a main-belt asteroid in an close approach event, a second-order angular velocity model with time is supposed in the sky plane. By fitting the relationship between the relative angular distance and observed time, we can derive the time of maximum approximation and calculate the corresponding position of the asteroid. In practice, five nights' CCD observations including 15 close approach events of main-belt asteroid (702) Alauda are taken for testing by the 1 m telescope at Yunnan Observatory, China. Compared with conventional solutions, our results show that the positional precision significantly improves, which reaches better than 4 mas, and 1 mas in the best case when referenced for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) ephemeris in both right ascension and declination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daphne genkwa has high ornamental value, strong resistance and medicinal value, but its leggy ability is not conducive to cultivation management. In this study, different concentrations of chlormequat chloride (CCC, 200, 600, 1800, and 5400 mg/L) and paclobutrazol (PP333, 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 mg/L) were sprayed three times on 2-year-old D. genkwa. The dwarfing mechanism of retardants was analyzed from leaf spectral reflectance and chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics. The results showed that a higher retardant concentration resulted in significant dwarf growth. The higher retardant concentration, the shorter flower branches, and the smaller flower area, except for 2000 mg/L PP333 treatment. Relative contents of leaf pigments maintained a stable high level after the third spraying of retardants (CV < 13.2%). In the near-ultraviolet region, reflection spectral intensity with the PP333 application was higher than CCC, but both were significantly higher than the control. The kinetic curve of fast chlorophyll a fluorescence induction showed that the performance in fluorescence intensity with PP333 treatment was better than that of CCC. With spraying increased, the number of reaction centers (RC/CSm) and the capacity of PSII (Sm) significantly increased, resulting in improving the ability of electronic transmission from PSII to PSI (Ψo and φRo). Finally, the maximal photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) and performance indexes (PIabs) significantly increased. In conclusion, retardant treatments could promote plant dwarfing and reproductive growth by improving the ability to resist ultraviolet light and photosynthetic efficiency. 2000 mg/L PP333 sprayed three times had the best performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims. The purpose of this work is to investigate an astrometric method to accurately measure the precise position of the center of mass of the dwarf planet Haumea and its satellites, based on the unresolved images taken by ground-based telescopes. Methods. A total of 29 nights of CCD observations are reported of the dwarf planet Haumea, taken during the period from February 7 to May 25, 2022 by three telescopes located in Yunnan Province, China. The pixel centroid of the unresolved image of Haumea and its satellites is measured with respect to its reference stars in the Gaia EDR3 star catalog. The new theoretical position of Haumea (the center of mass of Haumea and its satellites is assumed) is computed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Horizon System. The observed minus computed (OC) positional residuals of Haumea in right ascension and in declination show a significant and periodic variation. Furthermore, when the ephemeris position of Hi'iaka, the larger and brighter satellite of Haumea, with respect to Haumea itself is taken from the Miriade ephemeris service of the Institut de mécanique céleste et de calcul des éphémérides (IMCCE) website, the observed positional measurements of the center of mass of Haumea and Hi'iaka are derived precisely after using a new method. Results. The (OC) positional residuals are confirmed to be caused mainly by the motion of Hi'iaka around its primary. The final mean (OC) residuals of Haumea and its satellites are found with respect to the most recent version of the JPL ephemeris. As a by-product, a parameter that connects the mass ratio to the light ratio of Haumea and Hi'iaka (by Eq. (2) in the text), is introduced to derive the final mean (OC) residuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The radiation resistance mechanisms of nanoclusters (NCs) in oxide dispersion-strengthened (ODS) steels have been investigated. Molecular dynamics simulation has been used to investigate defect generation during the primary damage state of a displacement cascade in ODS steels for NCs of various radii and a range of primary knock-on atom (PKA) energies. Y2O3 NCs considerably enhance the radiation resistance of ODS steels by reducing the peak defect generation during the cascade within the Fe matrix. The NC also affects the morphology of the collision cascades, depending on PKA energy. At lower energies, the NC's outer circumference act as a cessation point forming a dampened shockwave compared to a pure Fe system. At higher energies, the PKA energy is able to transfer through the NC, thus causing two smaller shockwaves in the Fe matrix. Along with the alteration of the cascade morphology, the NC boundary acts as a strong defect sink to absorb defects and defect clusters, leading to significant recombination of interstitials and vacancies away from the NC. The interfacial energy of the NCs with the Fe matrix increases with increasing diameter of the oxide NCs. The evolution of the NC is tracked through the primary damage state of a cascade, and the effects of ballistic dissolution play a key role in this evolution, most evident in the 2 nm NC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toothed metal-plate connector (MPC) is a cost-effective connection method, easy to install with high assembly efficiency for manufacturing engineered timber trusses. In this study, In order to combine the advantages of the MPC with glued laminated bamboo (glubam) structures, a total of 136 MPC glubam joints, divided into 22 groups according to testing parameters, were tested and analyzed. Design strength values of the anchorage strength of metal plate tooth embedded in glubam, the tensile and shear strengths of toothed metal plate in glubam joints were provided in reference of the existing timber code specifications. The results show that the linear interpolation formula provided by the existing design code largely overestimates the anchorage strength of metal plate tooth embedded in glubam for the nonorthogonal loading directions. An angular equation expressed as the loading direction is therefore proposed. The design shear strength of aligning the major axis (tooth slot direction) of the metal plate parallel to the plate longitudinal direction is higher than that of aligning plate major axis perpendicular to the plate longitudinal direction, especially for the combined shear and tension loading. The design tensile and shear strengths of the MPC glubam joints are obviously larger than those of the Class I MPC timber joints given in the Chinese Standard, indicating that the MPC glubam is hopeful to be alternative to replace the MPC timber structures such as roof truss systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LunaR concept study investigated the scientific value, feasibility, and deployment options for a Raman spectrometer on future lunar landed missions. It consists of a breadboard instrument that covers the 150-4000 cm-1 wavelength range with a resolution of ~6 cm-1; Raman scattering is induced by a 532 nm continuous wave laser. The current conceptual design envisions the Raman spectrometer performing a downward-looking, 90-point one-dimensional across-track scan (±45°off nadir) of the lunar surface with the instrument mounted on the underside of a rover. A downward-looking context camera would provide information on the physical nature of targets interrogated by the Raman spectrometer and localization of the Raman spectra. Our laboratory investigations indicate that Raman spectroscopy is applicable to addressing a wide range of lunar surface exploration goals related to geology, in situ resource identification, and condensed volatile detection in diverse geological terrains, including permanently shadowed regions. Testing of a breadboard and commercial instrument on lunar samples and analogues indicates that a complete spectral scan of a target of interest can be completed in ~90 min, permitting its use on even short-duration lunar landed missions. All of the major minerals present on the Moon can be detected, and in many cases their compositions can be quantified or constrained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin contraction is an important biophysical process that takes place during and after recovery of deep tissue injury. This process is mainly caused by fibroblasts (skin cells) and myofibroblasts (differentiated fibroblasts which exert larger pulling forces and produce larger amounts of collagen) that both exert pulling forces on the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Modelling is done in multiple scales: agent-based modelling on the microscale and continuum-based modelling on the macroscale. In this manuscript we present some results from our study of the connection between these scales. For the one-dimensional case, we managed to rigorously establish the link between the two modelling approaches for both closed-form solutions and finite-element approximations. For the multi-dimensional case, we computationally evidence the connection between the agent-based and continuum-based modelling approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic (permanent) deformations were earlier, modeled by a phenomenological model in Peng and Vermolen (Biomech Model Mechanobiol 19(6):2525–2551, 2020). In this manusctipt, we consider a more physics-based formulation that is based on morphoelasticity. We firstly introduce the morphoelasticity approach and investigate the impact of various input variables on the output parameters by sensitivity analysis. A comparison of both model formulations shows that both models give similar computational results. Furthermore, we carry out Monte Carlo simulations of the skin contraction model containing the morphoelasticity approach. Most statistical correlations from the two models are similar, however, the impact of the collagen density on the severeness of contraction is larger for the morphoelasticity model than for the phenomenological model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the caviar software package, a standard tool for astrometry of images from the Cassini imaging science subsystem (ISS), Gaussian fitting is used to measure the centre of point-like objects, achieving a typical precision of about 0.2 pixels. In this work, we consider how alternative methods may improve on this. We compare three traditional centroiding methods: two-dimensional Gaussian fitting, median, and modified moment. Results using 56 selected images show that the centroiding precision of the modified moment method is significantly better than the other two methods, with standard deviations for all residuals in sample and line of 0.065 and 0.063 pixels, respectively, representing a factor of over 2 improvement compared to Gaussian fitting. Secondly, a comparison of observations using Cassini ISS images of Anthe is performed. Anthe results show a similar improvement. The modified moment method is then used to reduce all ISS images of Anthe during the period 2008–2017. The observed-minus-calculated residuals relative to the JPL SAT393 ephemeris are calculated. In terms of α × cos(δ) and δ in the Cassini-centred international celestial reference frame, mean values of all residuals are close to 0 km, and their standard deviations are less than 1 km for narrow angle camera images, and about 4 km for wide angle camera images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phenomenological model for cell shape deformation and cell migration Chen (BMM 17:1429–1450, 2018), Vermolen and Gefen (BMM 12:301–323, 2012), is extended with the incorporation of cell traction forces and the evolution of cell equilibrium shapes as a result of cell differentiation. Plastic deformations of the extracellular matrix are modelled using morphoelasticity theory. The resulting partial differential differential equations are solved by the use of the finite element method. The paper treats various biological scenarios that entail cell migration and cell shape evolution. The experimental observations in Mak et al. (LC 13:340–348, 2013), where transmigration of cancer cells through narrow apertures is studied, are reproduced using a Monte Carlo framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the precise positions of stars in CCD frames, various centering algorithms have been proposed for astrometry. The effective point spread function (ePSF) and the Gaussian centering algorithms are two representative centering algorithms. This paper compares in detail and investigates these two centering algorithms in performing data reduction. Specifically, synthetic star images in different conditions (i.e. profiles, fluxes, backgrounds and full width at half maximums) are generated and processed. We find that the difference in precision between the two algorithms is related to the profiles of the star images. Therefore, the precision comparison results using an ideal Gaussian-profile star image cannot be extended to other more specific experimental scenarios. Based on the simulation results, the most appropriate algorithm can be selected according to the image characteristics of observations, and the loss of precision of other algorithms can be estimated. The conclusions are verified using observations captured by the 1-m and 2.4-m telescopes at Yunnan Observatory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gaia Data Release 2 (Gaia DR2) provides high accuracy and precision astrometric parameters (position, parallax, and proper motion) for more than 1 billion sources and is revolutionizing astrometry. For a fast-moving target such as an asteroid, with many stars in the field of view that are brighter than the faint limit magnitude of Gaia (21 Gmag), its measurement accuracy and precision can be greatly improved by taking advantage of Gaia reference stars. However, if we want to study the relative motions of cluster members, we could cross-match them in different epochs based on pixel positions. For both types of targets, the determination of optical field-angle distortion or called geometric distortion (GD) in this paper is important for image calibration especially when there are few reference stars to build a high-order plate model. For the former, the GD solution can be derived based on the astrometric catalogue's position, while for the latter, a reference system called 'master frame' is constructed from these observations in pixel coordinates, and then the GD solution is derived. But, are the two GD solutions in agreement with each other? In this paper, two types of GD solutions, which are derived either from the Gaia DR2 catalogue or from the self-constructed master frame, are applied respectively for the observations taken by 1-m telescope at Yunnan Observatory. It is found that two GD solutions enable the precision to achieve a comparable level (∼10 mas) but their GD patterns are different. Synthetic distorted positions are generated for further investigation into the discrepancy between the two GD solutions. We aim to find the correlation and distinction between the two types of GD solutions and their applicability in high precision astrometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three nickel(II), manganese(II) and cadmium(II) complexes, [NiL2] (I), [MnL2] (II) and [Cd(HL)2(NO3)]·NO3 (III), derived from 4-bromo-N'-(1-(pyridin-2-yl)ethylidene)benzohydrazide (HL) were prepared and characterized by IR and UV spectra. Structures of the complexes were further confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction techniques (CIF files CCDC nos. 1874307 (I), 1874308 (II), and 1874309 (III)). The Ni atom in complex I and the Mn atom in complex II are in octahedral coordination. The Cd atom in complex III is in square antiprism coordination. The nickel complex is effective on the inhibition of Jack bean urease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gaia DR2 catalogue released in 2018 gives information about more than one billion stars, including their extremely precise positions that are not affected by the atmosphere, as well as the magnitudes in the G, RP , and BP passbands. This information provides great potential for the improvement of the ground-based astrometry. Based on Gaia DR2, we present a convenient method to calibrate the differential colour refraction (DCR). This method only requires observations with dozens of stars taken through a selected filter. Applying this method to the reduction of observations captured through different filters by the 1- and 2.4-m telescopes at Yunnan Observatory, the results show that the mean of the residuals between observed and computed positions (O − C) after DCR correction is significantly reduced. For our observations taken through an N (null) filter, the median of the mean (O − C) for well-exposed stars (about 15 G -mag) decreases from 19 to 3 mas, thus achieving better accuracy, i.e. mean (O − C). Another issue correlated is a systematic error caused by the poor charge transfer efficiency (CTE) when a CCD frame is read out. This systematic error is significant for some of the observations captured by the 1-m telescope at Yunnan Observatory. Using a sigmoidal function to fit and correct the mean (O − C), a systematic error up to 30 mas can be eliminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To satisfy the agronomic requirements for punching-on-film precision seeding of peanuts, a precision hole seeder was designed in this study. The seeder can perform simultaneous functions of film mulching, film punching, pipe laying, precision hole seeding, and seed covering. The overall structure and operating principle of the device were analyzed, and its major components, including a seed-metering device, soil-covering roller, and drip irrigation pipes, were theoretically studied. To optimize the operating parameters and achieve favorable performance, a three-factor quadratic orthogonal test was performed to test the effects of the vacuum chamber pressure, advancing speed of the seeder, and height of the type hole boss on the seeding performance; the variance and range of the test results were analyzed accordingly. Through the field experiments, when the vacuum chamber pressure, advancing speed of the seeder, and height of the type hole boss were optimized to 7.5 kPa, 4.2 km h-1, 5.3 mm, respectively, the qualification index, re-seeding index, and miss-seeding index of the seeder were 92.7%, 3.8%, and 3.5%, respectively. Thus, the developed seeder satisfies the agronomic requirements, and the study results provide a technical reference for the punching-on-film precision seeding of peanuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Lungs from patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have shown typical signs of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), formation of hyaline membrane mainly composed of fibrin and 'ground-glass' opacity. Previously, we showed plasminogen itself is a key regulator in fibrin degradation, wound healing and infection. Aim We aimed to investigate whether plasminogen can improve lung lesions and hypoxemia of COVID-19. Design Thirteen clinically moderate, severe or critical COVID-19 patients were treated with atomization inhalation of freeze-dried plasminogen. Methods Levels of their lung lesions, oxygen saturation and heart rates were compared before and after treatment by computed tomography scanning images and patient monitor. Results After plasminogen inhalation, conditions of lung lesions in five clinically moderate patients have quickly improved, shown as the decreased range and density of 'ground glass' opacity. Improvements of oxygen saturation were observed in six clinically severe patients. In the two patients with critical conditions, the oxygen levels have significantly increased from 79–82% to 91% just about 1 h after the first inhalation. In 8 of 13 patients, the heart rates had slowed down. For the five clinically moderate patients, the difference is even statistically significant. Furthermore, a general relief of chest tightness was observed. Conclusion Whereas it is reported that plasminogen is dramatically increased in adults with ARDS, this study suggests that additional plasminogen may be effective and efficient in treating lung lesions and hypoxemia during COVID-19 infections. Although further studies are needed, this study highlights a possible hope of efficiently combating this rapid epidemic emergency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic emission (AE) source localization is a powerful detection method. Time Difference Mapping (TDM) method is an effective method for detecting defects in complex structures. The core of this method is to search for a point with the minimum distance away from the verification point in the time difference database. In Traditional Time Difference Mapping (T-TDM) method and Improved Time Difference Mapping (I-TDM) method, the larger database and denser grids allow the higher localization accuracy. If the location points are not included in the database, the localization accuracy of the T-TDM and I-TDM methods will be greatly affected. To solve the above problems, a new AE source localization method, Generalized Regression Neural Network Based on Time Difference Mapping (GRNN-TDM), is proposed to improve the localization accuracy in the study. In the proposed method, the time difference data of the sensor path on all nodes in the time difference mapping are used as the training input data and the coordinates of grid nodes are used as the training output data. After continuous learning and training, the neural network model predicts its possible source location with the time difference data collected from the verification point. In this paper, the localization of AE sources with T-TDM, I-TDM and GRNN-TDM methods was studied in four composite plates with different fiber layers and an aluminum plate with holes. The localization results showed that the localization accuracy of the GRNN-TDM method was higher than that of T-TDM and I-TDM methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lanreotide autogel is a somatostatin analog (SSA) approved for the treatment of acromegaly in 73 countries worldwide; however, it is not yet approved in China. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of lanreotide autogel compared with lanreotide 40 mg prolonged release (PR) in Chinese patients with active acromegaly. Methods: LANTERN was a phase 3, randomized, open-label, non-inferiority study. Patients with active acromegaly who had undergone surgery ≥3 months prior, or were unlikely or unable to undergo surgery, were treated with lanreotide autogel 60/90/120 mg (monthly deep subcutaneous injection) or lanreotide 40 mg PR (intramuscular injection every 7, 10, or 14 days) for 32 weeks. Primary endpoint was mean change-from-baseline in age-adjusted insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) standard deviation scores (SDS) at the end-of-study. Secondary endpoints included: growth hormone (GH) levels ≤2.5 μg/L or ≤ 1.0 μg/L, ≥20% reduction in tumor volume (TV) and safety. Results: In total, 128 patients were randomized and received study treatment. Lanreotide autogel was non-inferior to lanreotide 40 mg PR: treatment difference (95% CI) for IGF-1 SDS between groups was − 0.32 (− 0.74, 0.11; per protocol population) and − 0.27 (− 0.63, 0.09; intention-to-treat [ITT] population), respectively. Reductions in IGF-1 (− 6.453 vs − 7.003) and GH levels (− 9.548 μg/L vs − 13.182 μg/L), and the proportion of patients with ≥1 acromegaly symptom (− 20.3% vs − 32.5%) were observed from baseline to end-of-study in lanreotide autogel and lanreotide 40 mg PR groups, respectively. In the lanreotide autogel group, 45.5% (25/55) patients achieved ≥20% reduction in TV compared with 50.9% (25/53) in lanreotide 40 mg PR group (ITT). Safety profiles were similar in both treatment groups. Conclusions: Lanreotide autogel was non-inferior to lanreotide 40 mg PR in Chinese patients with active acromegaly after 32 weeks of treatment. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02493517 (9 July 2015); prospectively registered on chinadrugtrials.org.cn: CTR20140698 (24 October 2014). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Neopterin is primarily synthesized and released by activated macrophages/monocytes upon stimulation with interferon‐γ and is considered as a marker for macrophage activation. This study aimed to analyze the serum levels of neopterin in patients with dermatomyositis (DM) in association with clinical manifestations, laboratory data and patient prognosis. One hundred and eighty‐two consecutive DM patients and 30 healthy controls were retrospectively enrolled into the study. Serum levels of neopterin were significantly increased in DM patients compared to healthy controls (P < 0·001). High serum neopterin levels were associated with anti‐melanoma differentiation‐associated gene (MDA5) antibody, rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP‐ILD) and characteristic DM cutaneous involvement. Longitudinal assessment of serum samples revealed that the serum neopterin levels were closely correlated with disease severity (β = 30·24, P < 0·001). In addition, a significant increase in serum neopterin concentration of non‐survivors was observed when compared to that of survivors (P < 0·001). Receiver operator characteristic curves showed that serum neopterin could distinguish non‐survivors and survivors at an optimal cut‐off level of 22·1 nmol/l with a sensitivity and specificity of 0·804 and 0·625, respectively (P < 0·001). Kaplan–Meier survival curves revealed that DM patients with serum neopterin > 22·1 nmol/l had a significantly higher mortality compared to the patient group with serum neopterin < 22·1 nmol/l (log‐rank P < 0·001). Multivariate regression analysis identified high serum neopterin concentration to be an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in DM (adjusted hazard ratio = 4·619, 95% confidence interval = 2·092–10·195, P < 0·001). In conclusion, increased serum levels of neopterin were significantly associated with RP‐ILD and reduced survival in DM patients, suggesting it as a promising biomarker in disease evaluation of DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precision premium, a concept in astrometry that was first presented by Pascu in 1994, initially means that the relative positional measurement of the Galilean satellites of Jupiter will be more accurate when their separations are small. Correspondingly, many observations have been obtained of these Galilean satellites since it was introduced. However, the exact range of separations at which the precision premium takes effect is not clear yet, nor the variation of the precision with separation. In this article, observations of open cluster M35 are used to study the precision premium and the newest star catalogue Gaia DR2 is used in data reduction. Our results show that the precision premium applies at less than 100 arcsec for two specific objects and the relative positional precision can be well fitted by a sigmoidal function. Observations of Uranian satellites are also reduced as an example of the precision premium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We calculate the hole and electron mobilities in naphthalene crystal from 10 to 300 Kwithin the framework of the Holstein-Peierls model coupled with first-principles density-functional-theory-projected tight-binding band structures. All the electron-phonon coupling constants, including both local and nonlocal parts for inter- and intramolecular vibrations, have been taken into considerations through density functional theory. The band-hopping crossover transition temperature for the electron transport in the c′ axis is calculated to be around 23 K. We have identified a few high frequency intramolecular vibrations which are very important to the charge transport in naphthalene crystal due to their comparatively large electron-phonon coupling constants. However, their contributions to the temperature dependence of mobility are minor because of the small phonon occupations and small nonlocal coupling strengths. The low frequency intermolecular modes (longitudinal optical modes) are found to be the major contributions to the temperature dependent charge transfer properties in naphthalene crystal. Even though the calculated qualitative temperature dependence is in agreement with experiment, the predicted absolute mobility is about one to two orders of magnitude larger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1021443723900016 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a new improvement mechanism of nano-SiO2 treated loess and assesses its effects on the soil environment. The results show that the nano-SiO2 additive produces a larger and more uniform aggregate structure in the treated loess accompanying a novel homogenization process. It results in increases in unconfined compressive strength and Young's modulus. Meanwhile, the addition of small quantities of nano-SiO2 also strikingly increases the mechanical properties. As a whole, nano-SiO2 has potential for use as a cost-effective and environment-friendly stabilized additive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obese patients have higher complication rates after pelvic surgery. Laparoscopic rectal surgery may not be possible in the obese individual due to mesorectal, total pelvic and general visceral fat volumes. Very low energy diets reduce visceral fat but the changes within the pelvis and mesorectum are unknown. The aim of the present study was to quantify the proportion of fat lost from total pelvic and mesorectal fat with a very low energy diet (VLED) and define simple, accessible measurements that correlate with expected volume reduction. Methods: A study was conducted on proportion change in mesorectal and intrapelvic fat volumes in patients on a VLED prior to bariatric surgery at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne. The VLED was a standardized 4-week meal replacement. Proportion change in mesorectal and intrapelvic fat volumes were measured. Patients had standardized pre-diet and post-diet magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis. Body mass index, weight and girth measures were obtained. Adipose quantification analysis was performed using Q-Fat. Results: Nine patients were included in this study, who were preparing for bariatric (not colorectal) surgery (5 females, median age 42 years, range 27–59 years) pre-protocol body mass index was 55.8 (range 39.5–60.6 kg/m2); median weight was 163 kg. Median mesorectal fat reduction was 29.9% (range 11.6–66.6%). Linear regression showed a relationship between the amount of mesorectal fat reduction and two variables: patient height and the distance from S1 to the posterior aspect of the rectum on MRI. The relationship predicted response to the diet (R2 67%, p = 0.040). Conclusions: Very low energy diets result in a clinically significant reduction in mesorectal fat with a lesser change in total pelvic fat, suggesting that very low energy diets may be useful for preparation for pelvic surgery in the obese. The distance from S1 to the posterior rectum correlates well with mesorectal reduction, making this a valuable clinical tool when volumetric analysis is not possible. This analysis is limited to the quantification of the effect of the diet and cannot comment on the safety of this approach before pelvic cancer surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Beijing–Arizona Sky Survey (BASS) is an imaging survey that uses the 2.3-m Bok telescope at Kitt Peak. In order to realize the astrometric potential of the Bok telescope and improve the astrometry of BASS, a distortion solution for the Bok telescope is needed. In the past, we used a single lookup table to correct all the positional errors. However, this method cannot be applied to the reduction of observations from the Bok telescope, which is equipped with four CCD chips. We thus developed a method that is quite different from our previous one, using two third-order polynomials to fit the lookup table. By using the polynomial geometric distortion (GD) correction, the astrometry of BASS is greatly improved. Moreover, an additional lookup-table correction is found to be more effective to obtain the final GD. The results show that the positional measurement precision of the appropriate bright stars is estimated at about 20 mas or even better in each direction. In addition, the relative positions of the chips are measured. The change of the inter-chip gaps in the horizontal or vertical is no more than 5 pixels between 2016 and 2017, and the change of the roll angle is no more than 0 |${^{\circ}_{.}}$| 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on a study which examined the 1/f noise dependence on the channel length in p- and n-channel silicon metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors. Analysis of the surface 1/f noise; Experimental details; Results and discussion; Conclusions.

Presents a study which developed a method for determining the magnetic critical current density on thallium strontium[sub2]calcium[sub2]barium[sub2]copper[sub3]oxygen[suby]. Experimental details; Results and discussion; Conclusion.

Presents a study that investigated the generation rates and annealing behavior of the irradiation defects in n- and p-type hydrogen-grown float-zoned silicon by the deep-level transient spectroscopy technique. Details of the experiment; Results; Discussion.

Presents information on the measurements of 1/f noise in vacuum photodiodes. Theoretical expression for the Hooge parameter; Discussion on the classical 1/f noise due to fluctuations in the electron affinity of the cathode; Explanation of the poisoning effects observed in the noise of aged tubes.

We provide new astrometric observations of Enceladus from images taken using the Cassini Imaging Science Subsystem (ISS) Narrow-Angle Camera. Astrometric reduction was performed using a new fully automatic camera repointing technique built within the Caviar software package. The new automatic procedure is based on the k-d tree technique and has been developed as an alternative to the manual technique currently available in Caviar. We describe the new procedure and demonstrate its effectiveness compared with manual processing. Repointing corrections were computed using reference stars from the UCAC4 and Gaia DR1 star catalogues. We compare the observed-minus-computed (O−C) residuals of Enceladus based on UCAC4 with those based on Gaia DR1, relative to the JPL SAT375 ephemeris and the IMCCE NOE ephemeris, respectively. We reduced all available Cassini ISS images of Enceladus during the period 2013–2017, producing a total of 1109 Cassini -centred astrometric observations. These are provided in right ascension (α) and declination (δ) in the International Celestial Reference Frame (ICRF). Estimated mean O−C residuals relative to JPL's SAT375 ephemeris were 0.7 km in α  × cos(δ) and 1.8 km in δ, with standard deviations of 2.4 and 3.2 km, respectively. No improvement in the precision of the observations was obtained when using the GAIA DR1 star catalogue compared with UCAC4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-assisted pre-stress forming is a technology for the manufacturing an integrally stiffened panel. To investigate the thermo-mechanical mechanism for such forming method, experiment on laser-assisted fourpoint bending an AA6061-T6 aluminium alloy sheet is carried out. A three-dimensional (3-D) finite element method (FEM) simulation is conducted and verified with the experiment in aspects of both temperature histories and force-displacement curve. During forming process, the sample is bent via four point bending elastically and then heated with a continuous wave (CW) Nd:YAG laser system in a controllable manner. Since material yield strength decreases with an increasing temperature locally, pre-loaded elastic strain is partially converted into plastic strain, and elastic strain energy is dissipated into plastic work. In this paper, the forming mechanism is studied by analysing the coupled thermostructural field. According to the final shape by simulation, the springback ratio is 78.0% (76.0% by experiment), and the energy dissipation rate is 33.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil N2O emissions are generally larger from soil with straw incorporated, and adjusting soil pH can substantially affect the mineralization of incorporated straw. However, the interactive effects of straw return and adjustment of soil pH on N2O emissions have not been well studied. Therefore, we investigated the role of adjusting soil pH using dolomite with incorporated crop straw in changing soil properties and N2O emissions. We performed a 105‐day incubation study in which dolomite was added to a rice (Oryza sativa L.) (C/N: 36) and green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) straw (C/N: 17) amended acidic soil (Ultisol). The pH of the original soil (4.92) steadily increased to 5.35 and 5.45 at day 105 in rice and green bean straw treatments, respectively. Application of dolomite increased pH to a maximum value of 6.35 in the rice straw + dolomite and 6.55 in the green bean straw + dolomite amended soil at day 105 following establishment of the trial. Application of dolomite and the crop straws significantly increased soil microbial biomass C (MBC), dissolved organic C (DOC) and nitrate (NO3−), whereas it had a short‐term effect on exchangeable ammonium (NH4+). The Ultisol amended with green bean straw emitted larger cumulative N2O emissions (7.25 mg N2O‐N kg−1) during the 105‐day study than soil amended with rice straw (4.23 mg N2O‐N kg−1) and the control soil (1.42 mg N2O‐N kg−1). Dolomite application significantly (P ≤ 0.001) decreased N2O emissions from both rice and green bean straw treatments by increasing soil pH. The results of the current study can help to mitigate N2O emissions and so improve field management. Highlights: We investigated the effects of dolomite on N2O emissions in acidic soil following incorporation of crop residues. Application of dolomite triggered chemical and biochemical soil processes. Dolomite significantly decreased N2O emissions from both rice and green bean straw treatments. Dolomite decreased net N2O emissions by increasing soil pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of different levels of protein concentrate supplementation on the growth performance of yak calves, and correlated the growth rate to changes occurring in the plasma- amino acids, -insulin profile, and signaling activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) cascade to characterize the mechanism through which the protein synthesis can be improved in early weaned yaks. Methods: For this study, 48 early (3 months old) weaned yak calves were selected, and assigned into four dietary treatments according to randomized complete block design. The four blocks were balanced for body weight and sex. The yaks were either grazed on natural pasture (control diet) in a single herd or the grazing yaks was supplemented with one of the three protein rich supplements containing low (17%; LP), medium (19%; MP), or high (21%; HP) levels of crude proteins for a period of 30 days. Results: Results showed that the average daily gain of calves increased (0.14 vs 0.23-0.26 kg; p<0.05) with protein concentrates supplementation. The concentration of plasma methionine increased (p<0.05; 8.6 vs 10.1-12.4 μmol/L), while those of serine and tyrosine did not change (p>0.05) when the grazing calves were supplemented with protein concentrates. Compared to control diet, the insulin level of calves increased (p<0.05; 1.86 vs 2.16-2.54 μIU/mL) with supplementation of protein concentrates. Addition of protein concentrates up-regulated (p<0.05) expression of mTOR-raptor, mammalian vacuolar protein sorting 34 homolog, the translational regulators eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1, and S6 kinase 1 genes in both Longissimus dorsi and semitendinosus. In contrast, the expression of sequestosome 1 was down-regulated in the concentrate supplemented calves. Conclusion: Our results show that protein supplementation improves the growth performance of early weaned yak calves, and that plasma methionine and insulin concentrations were the key mediator for gene expression and protein deposition in the muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of precipitates are important in understanding the strengthening mechanism via precipitation during heat treatment and the aging process in Al–Cu based alloys, where the formation of precipitates is sensitive to temperature and pressure. Here we report a first-principles investigation of the effect of temperature and pressure on the structural stability, elastic constants and formation free energy for precipitates of Al2Cu, as well as their mechanical properties. Based on the formation enthalpy of Guinier–Preston (GP(I)) zones, the size of the GP(I) zone is predicted to be about 1.4 nm in diameter, which is in good agreement with experimental observations. The formation enthalpies of the precipitates are all negative, suggesting that they are all thermodynamically stable. The present calculations reveal that entropy plays an important role in stabilizing ϑ-Al2Cu compared with ϑC′-Al2Cu. The formation free energies of ϑ′′-Al3Cu, ϑC′-Al2Cu, ϑD′-Al5Cu3 and ϑt′-Al11Cu7 increase with temperature, while those of ϑ′-Al2Cu, ϑO′-Al2Cu and ϑ-Al2Cu decrease. The same trend is observed with the effect of pressure. The calculated elastic constants for the considered precipitation phases indicate that they are all mechanically stable and anisotropic, except ϑC′-Al2Cu. ϑD′-Al5Cu3 has the highest Vicker's hardness. The electronic structures are also calculated to gain insight into the bonding characteristics. The present results can help in understanding the formation of precipitates by different treatment processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crowd simulators are commonly used to populate movie or game scenes in the entertainment industry. Even though it is crucial to consider the presence of groups for the believability of a virtual crowd, most crowd simulations only take into account individual characters or a limited set of group behaviors. We introduce a unified solution that allows for simulations of crowds that have diverse group properties such as social groups, marches, tourists and guides, etc. We extend the Velocity Obstacle approach for agent-based crowd simulations by introducing Velocity Connection; the set of velocities that keep agents moving together while avoiding collisions and achieving goals. We demonstrate our approach to be robust, controllable, and able to cover a large set of group behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complement activation has a deep pathogenic influence in immunoglobulin (Ig)A nephropathy (IgAN). C3a and C5a, small cleavage fragments generated by complement activation, are key mediators of inflammation. The fragments exert broad proinflammatory effects by binding to specific receptors (C3aR and C5aR, respectively). However, no studies thus far have investigated the effects of C3a, C5a and their receptors on IgAN. We observed that C3aR and C5aR antagonists repressed IgA-induced cell proliferation and interleukin (IL)-6 and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) production in cultured human mesangial cells (HMCs). Furthermore, an IgAN mouse model induced by Sendai virus infection was employed to investigate the effects of C3aR and C5aR on IgAN in vivo for the first time. Wild-type (WT) and several knock-out mouse strains (C3aR-/- or C5aR-/-) were immunized intranasally with increasing doses of inactivated virus for 14 weeks and were subjected to two intravenous viral challenges during the time-period indicated. In the Sendai virus-induced IgAN model, C3aR/C5aR-deficient mice had significantly reduced proteinuria, lower renal IgA and C3 deposition, less histological damage and reduced mesangial proliferation compared with WT mice. Both C3aR deficiency and C5aR deficiency, especially C3aR deficiency, inhibited renal tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, IL-1β, IL-6 and MCP-1 expression significantly. However, C3aR/C5aR-deficient and WT mice with IgAN did not differ with respect to their blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels. Our findings provide further support for the idea that C3aR and C5aR are crucially important in IgAN, and suggest that pharmaceutically targeting C3aR/C5aR may hold promise for the treatment of IgAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

755 new CCD observations during the years 2014-2016 have been reduced to derive the precise positions of Triton, the first satellite of Neptune. The observations were made by the 1-m telescope at Yunnan Observatory over 15 nights. The positions of Triton are measured with respect to the stars in Gaia DR1 star catalogue. The theoretical position of Triton was retrieved from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) Horizons System that includes the satellite ephemeris nep081xl, while the position of Neptune was obtained from the JPL ephemeris DE431mx. Our results show that the mean (O -- C)s (observed minus computed) are 0.042 and -0.006 arcsec in right ascension and declination, respectively. The dispersions of our observations are estimated at about 0.012 arcsec in each direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to obtain high-precision CCD positions of Himalia, the sixth Jovian satellite, a total of 598 CCD observations have been obtained during the years 2015-2016. The observations were made by using the 2.4 and 1 m telescopes administered by Yunnan Observatories over 27 nights. Several factors that would influence the positional precision of Himalia were analysed, including the reference star catalogue used, the geometric distortion and the phase effect. By taking advantage of its unprecedented positional precision, the recently released catalogue Gaia Data Release 1 was chosen to match reference stars in the CCD frames of both Himalia and open clusters, whichwere observed for deriving the geometric distortion. The latest version of SOFA library was used to calculate the positions of reference stars. The theoretical positions of Himalia were retrieved from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Horizons System that includes the satellite ephemeris JUP300, while the positions of Jupiter were based on the planetary ephemeris DE431. Our results showed that the means of observed minus computed (O-C) residuals are 0.071 and -0.001 arcsec in right ascension and declination, respectively. Their standard deviations are estimated at about 0.03 arcsec in each direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]