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SF3B1mutations are recurrent in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), particularly enriched in clinically aggressive stereotyped subset #2. To investigate their impact, we conducted RNA-sequencing of 18 SF3B1MUTand 17 SF3B1WTsubset #2 cases and identified 80 significant alternative splicing events (ASEs). Notable ASEs concerned exon inclusion in the non-canonical BAF (ncBAF) chromatin remodeling complex subunit, BRD9, and splice variants in eight additional ncBAF complex interactors. Long-read RNA-sequencing confirmed the presence of splice variants, and extended analysis of 139 CLL cases corroborated their association with SF3B1mutations. Overexpression of SF3B1K700Einduced exon inclusion in BRD9, resulting in a novel splice isoform with an alternative C-terminus. Protein interactome analysis of the BRD9 splice isoform revealed augmented ncBAF complex interaction, while exhibiting decreased binding of auxiliary proteins, including SPEN, BRCA2, and CHD9. Additionally, integrative multi-omics analysis identified a ncBAF complex-bound gene quartet on chromosome 1 with higher expression levels and more accessible chromatin in SF3B1MUTCLL. Finally, Cancer Dependency Map analysis and BRD9 inhibition displayed BRD9 dependency and sensitivity in cell lines and primary CLL cells. In conclusion, spliceosome dysregulation caused by SF3B1mutations leads to multiple ASEs and an altered ncBAF complex interactome, highlighting a novel pathobiological mechanism in SF3B1MUTCLL.

Abundant quantities of orange waste are produced annually, and their use for sewage treatment is admirable. The orange seeds powder was modified with Fe3O4and applied for eliminating methylene blue and crystal violet dyes. The active surface of orange seeds powder and orange seeds powder/Fe3O4was determined to be 4.02 and 69 m2/g, respectively. The magnetic property of orange seeds powder/Fe3O4was such that it was easily separated from the purified water with a simple magnet. The maximum removal by orange seeds powder/Fe3O4was quantified to be 98.86% (for crystal violet) and 99.27% (for methylene blue), respectively. The highest efficiency for orange seeds powder/Fe3O4was recorded at pH = 8, dye concentration of 10 mg/L, and adsorber mass of 1 g/L. The pseudo-secondary kinetic model was suitable for describing the adsorption data. Based on Gibbs free energy and enthalpy, the process was spontaneous and endothermic. Investigating the adsorption–desorption and industrial wastewater purification ability showed that the adsorbers in question can be used in the removal process of crystal violet and methylene blue in more than 5 steps. The findings showed that orange seed powder and Fe3O4particles can be suitable adsorbers for removing colored pollutants from aqueous solutions.

Land use changes and reforestation impact soil phosphorus (P) distribution over extended periods. This study examines P distribution in forest development from 1957 to 2017 at the Calhoun Critical Zone Observatory in South Carolina. Tracking changes in 0–60 cm mineral soil P fractions through six samplings in eight continuously uncut plots and eight plots cut in 2007 (replanted in 2009), we hypothesized an increase in soil organic P (Po) over time in uncut plots, at the expense of HCl‐extractable P (i.e., Ca‐P). This hypothesis is based on the expectation of a transfer of P from easily accessible forms, possibly from historic fertilization to organic reservoirs within the soil. Meanwhile, we expect to lose Poin cut plots due to disturbance and residue decomposition, and increase bioavailable Mehlich‐III extractable P (Mehlich‐III P), resin inorganic phosphorus (Pi), and HCO3Pi. Results revealed a continued decrease in Mehlich‐III P in uncut (38.7–15.7 µg g−1) and cut plots (25.2–17.7 µg g−1) within the 0–7.5 cm range. NaOH‐Poin uncut plots remained stable, while in cut plots, it increased by ∼4 µg g−1in the 0–7.5 cm soil layer. Slowly cycling Po(NaOH‐Po) increased during forest regrowth in the cut plots, aligning with rising soil organic carbon and decreasing soil pH. Soil P changes indicate minor declines in available fractions during the initial three decades, with the HCl extractable (Ca‐P) fraction experiencing the highest depletion. In the later three decades, P associated with NaOH extraction (i.e., iron [Fe] and aluminum [Al] bound P) declined, although estimated mineral soil P removals during this period were less than accumulated P in tree biomass and forest floor. The total soil P decline from 1990 to 2017 was 34 kg ha−1, suggesting a growing role of P recycling from debris decomposition in supplying soil P to plants. Phosphorus distribution in mineral soils is dynamic across a forest's developmental timeline from 1957 to 2017.Phosphorus recycling from forest floor and soil organic P contributes to plant nutrient supply.An agricultural fertilization legacy is still influencing long‐term phosphorus cycling.The decadal timescale of this study highlights the role of slowly cycling phosphorus fractions over extended time scales.

Byline: Zahra. Mohammadi, Mehdi. Azad, Farshad. Foroughi, Sahar. Khojastehpour, Nematollah. Gheibi, Fatemeh. Samiee-Rad, Amirhosein. Maali, Mohammad. Ahmadi Aims: The hypermethylation of CpG islands in the promoter of tumor-suppressor genes (TSGs) [...]

This article investigated the indirect lightning performance of an overhead line versus critical flashover voltage in the ground with two vertical layers, ocean and land. A novel method based on Monte Carlo and 3-D finite element method is provided to evaluate the annual number of line insulator flashovers. The proposed procedure reduced the computational efforts of the accurate induced voltage calculation and then the estimation of the line lightning performance. Using the proposed Monte Carlo method, the effect of the line distance from the ocean–land line interface, overhead line poles distance, land conductivity, and different ways for calculating the striking distance on the prediction of the yearly lightning flashover was analyzed. The obtained statistical results show that considering the mixed ocean–land propagation path ground strongly impacted the predicted number of the line flashovers caused by indirect lightning.

Study design: A prospective case series. Objective: To investigate the possible associations of multi-directional cervical kyphoscoliosis (CKS) with substance abuse and evaluate treatment outcomes. Summary of background data: CKS is a rare medical situation without a well-established pathology. Still there are many obscurities in treatment paradigms and outcomes. To our knowledge, there is no published report on the association between CKS with addiction. Besides the novel report of such a rare etiology for CSK, the complexity of the neurosurgical treatment makes this report the first of its kind. Methods: In this series, we presented three patients with a history of crack cocaine addiction who suffered CKS due to prolonged hand-over-neck posture and treated all of them with a complex neurosurgical protocol. Results: All cases were operated on and restored their normal spine alignment. Their long-term outcomes showed independent neurological status with no major surgical complications. Conclusion: Crack cocaine addiction might be associated with CKS in long-term cocaine abuse. A complex neurosurgical approach can achieve a sustainable clinical outcome.

A levelling network was readjusted and a new geoid model compiled within the framework of geodetic vertical datum modernization at the Hong Kong territories. To accomplish all project objectives, the quasigeoid model has to be determined too. A quasigeoid model can be obtained from existing geoid model by applying the geoid-to-quasigeoid separation. The geoid-to-quasigeoid separation was traditionally computed as a function of the simple planar Bouguer gravity anomaly, while disregarding terrain geometry, topographic density variations, and vertical gravity changes due to mass density heterogeneities below the geoid surface. We applied this approximate method because orthometric heights of levelling benchmarks in Hong Kong were determined only approximately according to Helmert’s theory of orthometric heights. Considering a further improvement of the accuracy of orthometric heights by applying advanced numerical procedures, we determined the geoid-to-quasigeoid separation by applying an accurate method. The comparison of the accurately and approximately computed values of the geoid-to-quasigeoid separation revealed significant differences between them. The approximate values are all negative and reach -2.8 cm, whereas values from the accurate method vary between -4.1 and + 0.2 cm. In addition, we assessed the effect of anomalous topographic density on the geoid-to-quasigeoid separation by employing a newly developed digital rock density model. According to our estimates the effect of anomalous topographic density reaches a maximum value of 1.6 cm, reflecting a predominant presence of light volcanic rocks and sedimentary deposits at the Hong Kong territories. Our numerical findings indicate that the conversion between geoid and quasigeoid models should be done accurately, even in regions with a moderately elevated topography.

While it is known that changing the salinity of the brine used to displace oil in porous rock can lead to additional recovery, the mechanism by which this occurs at the pore scale is still not fully understood. We investigate whether the emulsification of oil is the process by which recovery is improved, removing oil from the solid surface and rendering the rock more water-wet. High-resolution three-dimensional X-ray imaging was used to visualize the emulsification kinetics during secondary and tertiary low salinity waterflooding in a carbonate reservoir rock. The rock samples were imaged during water flooding, where the salinity of the injected brine was much lower than that of the formation water. An intermediate phase that appeared to be a mixture of oil and brine, and which we hypothesize is an emulsion, was imaged in both tertiary and secondary low salinity waterflooding experiments. The formation of this intermediate phase is observed to be the preliminary step prior to oil mobilization. Gray-level histograms and pore occupancy maps showed a faster displacement of oil in the secondary mode compared to tertiary flooding where the emulsified oil remained in the sample for longer before displacement.

Due to the way they operate, the electric arc furnaces (EAFs) generate currents with spectrum rich in harmonics, which in turn result in harmonics and sparkle at the point of common coupling. Typically, the EAFs are treated as the heavy loads that are directly connected with both medium and high-voltage substations. In general, the nonlinear loads are the major source of harmonics in the power system, and EAF plays a vital role in harmonic generation that affects the overall power quality of the output load. Power quality improvement is one of the most essential factor in the electric power systems, which helps to improve the overall system operation and control. Hence, the proposed work intends to effectively suppress the existence of harmonics with better reactive power injection capability. For this assessment, three different case studies are considered in this work, which supports to solve the power quality problems with proper filtering operation and control. In this study, the different types of filtering techniques such as active, passive and hybrid are investigated for an effective harmonic reduction. Moreover, the detailed simulation has been carried out to using the MATLAB/Simulink software for performance assessment and validation. In case 1, the power source current, active power, reactive power and harmonics contents are validated without filtering. Similarly, the aforementioned parameters are computed in case 2 with active and passive filters. Finally, the hybrid filters are implemented to estimate the power quality measures in case 3. According to the analysis, the overall findings state that the harmonics level is effectively reduced to 5.37% with the use of hybrid filters in case 3.

Automation transparency is understudied in environments with varied automation reliability. We previously found uncertainty communication, a form of automation transparency, led to nuanced and unintentional performance outcomes in this type of environment. To better understand these outcomes, participants’ monitoring policies of automation were studied via a preliminary eye tracking analysis. In a simulated multi-UAV mission, 272 Naval Aviation trainees monitored three automated systems that were identical in function, but differed in reliability. Halfway through the experiment, uncertainty communication about the least reliable system was delivered as a chat message. Performance improvements coincided with a monitoring policy that had larger dwell times overall and one where the proportion of visual attention towards the automated system mentioned in the uncertainty communication increased upon its delivery. Overall, examining participant monitoring policies helped explain other performance outcomes and bolstered our previous conclusion: effective uncertainty communication requires maximum specificity.

Depending on the size and location of the tumor, carotid body tumor (CBT) resection can come with various complications, mostly intraoperative bleeding, and cranial nerve injuries. In the present study, we aim to evaluate 2 fairly new variables, tumor volume, and distance to the base of the skull (DTBOS), with operative complications of CBT resection.

Purpose: To develop and evaluate an augmented reality instrument guidance system for MRI-guided needle placement procedures such as musculoskeletal biopsy and arthrography. Our system guides the physician to insert a needle toward a target while looking at the insertion site without requiring special headgear. Methods: The system is comprised of a pair of stereo cameras, a projector, and a computational unit with a touch screen. All components are designed to be used within the MRI suite (Zone 4). Multi-modality fiducial markers called VisiMARKERs, detectable in both MRI and camera images, facilitate automatic registration after the initial scan. The navigation feedback is projected directly onto the intervention site allowing the interventionalist to keep their focus on the insertion site instead of a secondary monitor which is often not in front of them. Results: We evaluated the feasibility and accuracy of this system on custom-built shoulder phantoms. Two radiologists used the system to select targets and entry points on initial MRIs of these phantoms over three sessions. They performed 80 needle insertions following the projected guidance. The system targeting error was 1.09 mm, and the overall error was 2.29 mm. Conclusion: We demonstrated both feasibility and accuracy of this MRI navigation system. The system operated without any problems inside the MRI suite close to the MRI bore. The two radiologists were able to easily follow the guidance and place the needle close to the target without any intermediate imaging.

Recent evidence suggests that the prognostic impact of gene mutations in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) may differ depending on the immunoglobulin heavy variable (IGHV) gene somatic hypermutation (SHM) status. In this study, we assessed the impact of nine recurrently mutated genes (BIRC3, EGR2, MYD88, NFKBIE, NOTCH1, POT1, SF3B1, TP53, and XPO1) in pre-treatment samples from 4580 patients with CLL, using time-to-first-treatment (TTFT) as the primary end-point in relation to IGHV gene SHM status. Mutations were detected in 1588 (34.7%) patients at frequencies ranging from 2.3–9.8% with mutations in NOTCH1being the most frequent. In both univariate and multivariate analyses, mutations in all genes except MYD88were associated with a significantly shorter TTFT. In multivariate analysis of Binet stage A patients, performed separately for IGHV-mutated (M-CLL) and unmutated CLL (U-CLL), a different spectrum of gene alterations independently predicted short TTFT within the two subgroups. While SF3B1and XPO1mutations were independent prognostic variables in both U-CLL and M-CLL, TP53, BIRC3and EGR2aberrations were significant predictors only in U-CLL, and NOTCH1and NFKBIEonly in M-CLL. Our findings underscore the need for a compartmentalized approach to identify high-risk patients, particularly among M-CLL patients, with potential implications for stratified management.

An application of the Cholesky-based Monte Carlo method is introduced to generate the lightning characteristics for the statistical analysis of lightning. The method explains how to use this approach to generate the lightning base current characteristics close to the measured parameters of channel base current. Then for about 20 000 different channel base current characteristics generated by this method, the Heidler function parameters are calculated by the genetic algorithm. The obtained Heidler parameters are statistically analyzed. After that, the Cholesky decomposition of Heidler parameters is determined. In the statistical investigations of lightning, this matrix generally allows for the removal of the part of calculations related to the determination of Heidler parameters. The calculation time and the calculation burden are significantly reduced in statistical studies. The obtained results show the effectiveness of this method.

Wearable sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT) will be two buzzwords that will be heard commonly in the coming decades. The combination of these two technologies soon will create a great revolution in applications that require motion recognition, such as health care, sports, and entertainment. The development of technology has made wearable sensors one of the most basic tools for human motion analysis. We believe that IoT is the most powerful complement to the use of wearable sensors in the analysis of human body motion. Using wearable IoT, all necessary human data will be collected and delivered via the Internet to the experts who can make accurate decisions about the type of activity, falling situations, freezing of gait (fog), and so on. In this article, the human motion analysis is presented in a chart and is divided into two parts: movement measurement and movement classification. However, this article focuses on movement classification that includes three subsections, gait analysis (GA), gesture recognition (GR), and human activity recognition (HAR), and is closely related to human motion recognition. In this article, our goal is to first acquaint the reader with the important steps required to classify the movement of the human body by wearable sensors and then by using tables to determine the most used algorithms and methods for each step. After briefly reviewing IoT concepts, directions for further research will be provided.

An attempt was made to develop a new sensitive biosensor for pralatrexate, as an anticancer drug, based on its interaction with the guanine of fish sperm DNA anchored on a screen-printed electrode (SPE) modified with polypyrrole (PP)/octahedral Pd-doped Co3O4composite (Oh-Pd-doped Co3O4C). Electrochemical techniques like differential pulse voltammetry verified the mechanism of such an interaction on the dsDNA/PP/Oh-Pd-doped Co3O4C/SPE surface. A reduction in the peak current of guanine oxidation elucidated the interaction in acetate buffer with pH = 4.8. The optimization of response was performed for the interaction method according to potential, accumulation time, reproducibility and drug content. The linear dynamic range was estimated at 1.0 nM to 150.0 μM as well as a limit of detection as low as 0.61 nM for the DNA and pralatrexate concentrations. The practical potential of the proposed sensor was verified by determining pralatrexate in its pharmaceutical matrices.

Purpose: The perception of sport consumers on peripheral stadium-quality services (PSQS) has evolved after compulsory precautionary measures were imposed on gatherings to alleviate the spread of coronavirus. This study attempts to reassess five principal dimensions of PSQS? Stadium parking, stadium cleanliness, fan control, food services and perceived crowding? through reflecting on the COVID-19 control and prevention measures established during this pandemic. Furthermore, it aims to measure the impact of the multi-dimensional PSQS on spectators' emotions and future attendance intentions. Design/methodology/approach: The purposive sampling technique was used to collect data from spectators watching the live matches of cricket at the stadium. A total of 680 responses were collected from spectators and uploaded to the measurement model. The covariance-based structural equation modeling technique was used subsequently for analysis purposes. Findings: The study found a positive impact of the stadium cleanliness and fan control services on spectators' happiness and excitement emotions; and a negative impact of stadium parking, stadium cleanliness, fan control and perceived crowding on their anger, anxiety and dejection emotions. The happiness and excitement emotions of the spectators induced them to visit again at the stadium. Of all the peripheral quality services, the study found only stadium cleanliness service indirectly effect spectators' revisit intentions through excitement emotion as a mediator. Research limitations/implications: The incorporation of the safety procedures through PSQS can reduce spectators' negative emotions especially when they face psychological fear of the pandemic. These services work as a stimulus for spectators that directly affect their organism (emotions) and indirectly affect their response (attendance intentions). Originality/value: This study contributed to sports research by novelty evaluating sport consumers' perception of the PSQS after incorporating COVID-19 preventive measures. It empirically examines the effect PSQS on spectators' emotions and re-visits intentions.

Inflammation in a myelinated portion of the nervous system is the mainstay of multiple sclerosis (MS). Elevation of inflammatory markers such as procalcitonin, ESR and hs-CRP is suspected to occur in MS patients. However, their prognostic role and their relationship with the severity of clinical symptoms of MS and MRI evidences has remained unnoticed in the literature. Hence, we aim to evaluate the serum level of inflammatory markers in the acute attack of MS patients and demonstrate the potential prognostic role of these inflammatory markers. This study was carried on case and control groups of definite MS patients. The cases were patients with active MS and were further allocated into four subgroups, while as control group included patients with non-active MS. Furthermore, all the participants underwent brain and cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a contrast agent. A significant difference was detected in hs-CRP level (p= 0.009) across the subgroups of the cases. The highest level of hs-CRP was reported in patients with cerebellar and brain stem symptoms (mean = 6998.13 ± 3501.16), while the lowest in patients with pyramidal and urinary incontinence symptoms (mean = 1958.91 ± 2662.16). Moreover, correlation coefficient between values of MRI contrast-enhanced lesions and ESR level was statistically significant (Rs = 0.503 and p= 0.001). Elevation of ESR serum level positively correlates with disease activity evidenced by values of contrast-enhanced plaques of MRI in relapsing–remitting MS patients which may predict the disease activity. In addition, MS relapse with cerebellar and brain stem symptoms is associated with a high concentration of hs-CRP plasma level.

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and association of dental anomalies with different types of malocclusions and facial patterns.

Automation reliance and functionality are ever increasing, especially in supervisory control environments like unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) missions. Of particular relevance is understanding how automation transparency, i.e., explaining the capabilities and limitations of automation to the human in real-time, can improve human-automation performance across automated systems that vary in reliability. Two hundred seventy one Naval Aviation trainees completed a simulated multi-UAV supervisory control mission for 42 minutes with three automated systems that varied in reliability. Participants were never explicitly told the reliability varied, but halfway through the mission, they were alerted that the least reliable system may falter. Results indicated human-automation performance improved after the alert for this specific system, but not as a whole, as one system’s human-automation performance deteriorated. This work suggests uncertainty communication should not only include the specific, real-time capabilities of the automation, but also communicate unintentional consequences it may have on the whole environment.

Graphical abstract:

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is an optimization method to assess the efficiency of decision-making units with multiple-inputs/multiple-outputs assumption. Most real-life issues contain more than one stage unit which needs multiple-stage data envelopment analysis models to be solved. Moreover, the inputs and outputs of the units are rarely measured accurately in real-life problems, hence fuzzy data envelopment analysis approaches can be significantly helpful in calculating efficiency scores. In this study, an approach for evaluating the performance of decision-making units (DMUs) in fuzzy two-stage DEA models is developed. The developed model is a parametric program based on alpha-cuts. The dependence on alpha allows the manager to compare and rank DMUs based on his/her degree of certainty and after the selection of alpha, our proposed model becomes linear. Furthermore, a theorem is proposed and proved for conventional multiplicative two-stage DEA models with the assumption of Variable Returns to Scale. This theorem can be used to evaluate the correctness of the results. Finally, by two illustrative examples, the ability of the proposed approach to solve fuzzy two-stage DEA models is shown, and the obtained results are compared to that of some other methods in this field.

Despite the rapid advancement and integration of Generative AI in various sectors, understanding its role in promoting social sustainability, particularly within the educational domain, remains unexplored. This research is propelled by the urgent need to explore this underexamined area, especially given the critical importance of social sustainability in ensuring equitable and inclusive educational outcomes. To address this gap, this study develops an integrated model that combines the insights of the Technology Threat Avoidance Theory (TTAT), the Technology-Environmental, Economic, and Social Sustainability Theory (T-EESST), and key knowledge management (KM) factors (knowledge acquisition and knowledge application). Using PLS-SEM, the proposed model was evaluated based on data collected through an online survey from 378 university students. The results showed that while perceived threats have a significant negative impact on Generative AI use, knowledge acquisition and knowledge application emerge as critical drivers for its effective use. Interestingly, using Generative AI was found to promote social sustainability significantly and positively. In addition to its theoretical contributions, this study underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the barriers and enablers of Generative AI adoption, offering valuable insights for various stakeholders aiming to leverage AI tools for sustainable educational outcomes.

In the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, Energy Hubs (EH) emerge as pivotal systems integrating diverse energy carriers. This paper introduces a novel short-term model for EH, incorporating Hydrogen Energy (HE) and Renewable Energy Sources (RES). Employing an advanced approach, the Information Gap Decision Theory (IGDT), we address uncertainties in electricity demand, real-time market prices, and wind farm energy production. The model optimizes EH operations, leveraging flexible Demand Response Programs (DRP) to shift demand to cost-effective off-peak hours. In contrast to conventional IGDT models, our method considers the magnitude intensity of uncertainty for each parameter, resulting in precise and tailored uncertainty management. The dynamic interplay of EH components – Combined Heat and Power (CHP) units, Diesel Generators (DG), and Hydrogen Storage Systems (HSS) – is orchestrated to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The system adapts to uncertainties, with DRP enhancing HSS performance during off-peak hours. Our main achievement lies in the robustness of uncertainty management, ensuring optimal EH performance under varying conditions. Applying the DRP in the system reduces costs by approximately 5.4%, showcasing the economic benefits of our approach. This result, coupled with enhanced reliability and adaptability, positions our model as a pioneering strategic and forward-thinking solution for industrial stakeholders navigating the complexities of energy systems.

ABSTRACT The growing globalization of business is making face-to-face communications, decision-making, and negotiations more the exception than the rule. Internet communication in text-only, audio, and video form are all becoming […]

A gradient‐information‐enhanced image segmentation method using convolutional neural networks is presented, and then combined with contact angle measurement to establish an automated processing workflow. For three‐dimensional X‐ray images, the segmentation accuracy at interfaces and sparsely distributed small objects directly influences the accuracy of the contact angle measurement. Leveraging reliable gradient information to train the neural network, this segmentation method addresses the issue of inaccurate segmentation of interfaces even at low resolution and with small objects present. Furthermore, memory requirements are reduced by performing analysis on orthogonal two‐dimensional planes. The workflow was tested on water‐wet Ketton limestone, as well as on both water‐wet and mixed‐wet sandstone and a reservoir carbonate. The results from both the segmentation and contact angle measurements underscore the effectiveness of the approach. Notably, the workflow shows considerable generalizability and robustness, even with varying wettability and lithology. We use convolutional neural networks enhanced with gradient information to improve the accuracy of segmentation of three‐dimensional images of porous media and the fluids in the pore space, especially at interfaces and for small objects, even when the images have low resolution. We tested the method on several data sets including water‐wet Ketton limestone, both water‐wet and mixed‐wet Bentheimer sandstone, and a reservoir carbonate. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of our approach compared to traditional methods for segmentation. A particular challenge is the determination of contact angle ‐ the local wettability ‐ at the three‐phase contact loop between two fluid phases and the solid. We show that our new method leads to reliable estimates of the distribution of contact angle for the samples studied. This work allows for more accurate image analysis in multiphase flow in porous media with applications in carbon dioxide and hydrogen storage. A gradient information enhanced segmentation method is presented to assist automatic contact angle measurementsThe gradient information method reduces the problems associated with low image resolution and manual segmentation A gradient information enhanced segmentation method is presented to assist automatic contact angle measurements The gradient information method reduces the problems associated with low image resolution and manual segmentation

Graphical abstract:

Digital Rights Management (DRM) in the wake of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998 are beginning to provide copyright protection for digital content placed online by magazine and book publishers, music companies, software and game producers and companies. The DRM industry must provide a balance between fair compensation for the creators of digital content and the rights of end users to access and use information.

Soft conductive elastomers with low hysteresis over a wide range of stretchability are desirable in various applications. Such applications include soft sensors with a long measurement range, motion recognition, and electronic skin, just to name a few. Even though the measurement capability of the sensors based on soft materials has been greatly improved compared to the traditional ones in recent years, hysteresis in the loading and unloading states has limited the applications of these sensors, thereby negatively affecting their accuracy and reliability. In this work, conductive elastomers with near-zero hysteresis have been formulated and fabricated using 3D printing. These elastomers are made by combining highly stretchable dielectric elastomer formulations with a polar hydrophobic ionic liquid and polymerizing under ultraviolet light. High-performance piezoresistive sensors have been fabricated and characterized, with a 10-fold stretchability and low hysteresis (1.2%) over long-term stability (more than 10 000 cycles under cyclic stress) with a 20 ms response time. Additionally, the current elastomers displayed fast mechanical and electrical self-healing properties. Using 3D printing in conjunction with some of our structural innovations, we have fabricated smart gloves to show this material’s wide range of applications in soft robots, motion detection, wearable devices, and medical care.

This paper presents a numerical parametric study of the moment-curvature and curvature ductility of doubly-reinforced beams with different parameters. The effects of the strength of the concrete and the amount of the reinforcement, including the tensile and compression reinforcement on the complete moment-curvature behavior and the curvature ductility factor of the beam sections, have been studied. A new predictive formula for the ductility factor of beam sections that considers the different parameters has been developed. In a continuation of the study, the flexural ductility of beams designed with different parameters according to the ductility factor proposed by different researchers was investigated. Based on the results of the numerical analysis, the proposed predictions for the curvature ductility factor were verified by comparisons with other predictive formulas. The proposed formula offers fairly accurate and consistent predictions for the curvature ductility factor of beam sections. It is shown that the concrete’s compression strength and the amount of reinforcing steel, including the compression reinforcement ratios, have an effect on the curvature ductility factor of beam sections.

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a mathematical approach based on linear programming, which evaluates the rational efficiency of decision-making units (DMUs) with multiple inputs and outputs. In conventional DEA, the data values are considered to be deterministic. However, the data might be non-deterministic in nature, and DMUs evaluation within DEA may be sensitive to imprecise data. An approach to deal with imprecise data is considering stochastic data within DEA. In this paper, chance constrained programming (CCP) concept is applied to develop slacks-based measure (SBM) multiplier model within stochastic DEA. The deterministic equivalent of this stochastic model is transformed into a nonlinear and then to a quadratic program. The objective function value and also the weighted output-input ratio, determined by using the optimal solution of the developed model, is used to evaluate DMUs. Two real data of the Chinese textile industry and Iranian provincial gas companies are used to assess the performance of the developed approach.

Supplemental digital content is available in the text.

Due to the growth of the population in urban areas, metro tunnels are the most important means of transportation. Hence, it is necessary to study the tunneling conditions and their effects on the nearby structures. In addition, internal tunneling pressure and groundwater level changes affect the ground surface displacements, significantly. This research considered the changes of the groundwater level and the uniform internal pressures simultaneously in simulating the earth pressure balance(EPB) shield tunneling method before the tunnel lining installation. The study applied a series of 2D finite element modelsof the tunnel longitudinal and transverse sections to evaluate the Isfahan metro's surface displacements and the optimum internal pressure. Mohr–Columb constitutive model and the plane strain assumption were adopted in numerical simulations. Different types of failure mechanisms of the ground surface in the longitudinal section were proposed by concentrating in vertical and horizontal displacements. The results showed that uniform internal pressure equal to 300 kPa caused the minimum ground surface displacements in the Isfahan metro project.

IN BRIEF The computer has become a useful tool for purchasing managers in administering contracts and in daily operations. Additionally, computer support for contract negotiations may also be provided. This [...]

AbstractEsophageal cancer (EC) is a relatively rare malignancy in the United States, although it is associated with high morbidity and mortality. More than 90% of EC cancer-related mortality is due to distant metastasis, most commonly to the liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Although EC has a high tendency for random dissemination, it rarely metastasizes to the muscles and soft tissue. Here, we report a rare case of a patient with recurrent esophageal squamous cell carcinoma metastasis to his left thigh musculature, initially suspected to be a soft tissue sarcoma on magnetic resonance imaging. The patient did not tolerate standard chemotherapy with epirubicin, oxaliplatin, and capecitabine and was subsequently successfully treated with neoadjuvant radiotherapy, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy with capecitabine and cetuximab for 2 years and capecitabine alone for 1 year.

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the impact of Shariah-compliant hotel attributes on Muslim travellers’ revisit intention. Design/methodology/approach: A total of 361 Muslim travellers who have stayed at Shariah-compliant hotels in the previous 12 months were recruited to take part in this research. The hypothesized research model was assessed using the partial least squares (PLS) approach. Findings: The analysis revealed that Muslim travellers’ revisit intention is dependent on the halal food and beverages and the provision of Shariah-compliant facilities at the hotel, whereas the Shariah-compliant operation and interior design of hotels are not significantly associated with it. The findings also uncovered that religiosity moderates the impacts of Shariah-compliant facilities and interior design on travellers’ revisit intention. Practical implications: Guidelines to offer services that meet Muslim travellers’ needs can be developed based on the results of this study to help Shariah-compliant hotel marketers attract and retain more customers. Originality/value: The findings of this study have provided insights into the importance of halal attributes and practices in retaining Muslim customers at Shariah-compliant hotels.

Purpose: Anorexia nervosa (AN) affects approximately 2.9% of females and has the highest mortality rate among all psychiatric disorders. Despite several advances, the neurobiology of this disorder is still not well understood. Several studies have reported abnormalities in the white matter, but it is not know if these are disease-related or secondary to undernutrition. This study aimed to further our understanding of white matter pathology using diffusion-weighted imaging in underweight adolescents with AN, and to examine changes occurring after short-term weight restoration. Methods: Analyses were conducted on diffusion-weighted imaging from 24 female adolescents with AN and 17 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC), aged 14–19 years. Groups were compared on fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) using tract-based spatial statistics analysis and DTI measures were correlated with eating disorder examination questionnaire (EDE-Q) subscales and body mass index (BMI). Preliminary repeated-measure analyses were also conducted on eight participants after short-term weight restoration (median 41 days). Results: Widespread increases in MD of up to 9% were found in underweight AN relative to HC, particularly in the corpus callosum. This was associated with both increased AD and RD, suggestive of dys- or de-myelination. There were no significant group differences in FA, and no significant correlations between DTI measures, BMI or EDE-Q subscale score. Weight restoration therapy significantly reduced MD, to levels significantly lower than HC, but did not consistently alter FA across individuals. Conclusions: White matter microstructure is significantly altered in female adolescents with AN, with preliminary longitudinal data suggesting that it may be reversible with short-term weight restoration. Level of evidence: Level III: evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.

•A standardized long instrumented fusion protocol was used for thoracolumbar junction fractures. Clinical outcomes were measured. High fusion rate, low PJK incidence, neurological and functional improvements were achieved.•Laminectomy and steroid therapy were associated with improved neurological outcomes.•PJK was associated with laminectomy and steroid therapy.

Porous materials, such as carbonate rocks, frequently have pore sizes which span many orders of magnitude. This is a challenge for models that rely on an image of the pore space, since much of the pore space may be unresolved. In this work, sub‐resolution porosity in X‐ray images is characterized using differential imaging which quantifies the difference between a dry scan and 30 wt% potassium iodide brine saturated images. Once characterized, we develop a robust workflow to incorporate the sub‐resolution pore space into a network model using Darcy‐type elements called microlinks. Each grain voxel with sub‐resolution porosity is assigned to the two nearest resolved pores using an automatic dilation algorithm. By including these microlinks with empirical models in flow modeling, we simulate single‐phase and multiphase flow. By fine‐tuning the microlink empirical models, we match permeability, formation factor (the ratio of the resistivity of a rock filled with brine to the resistivity of that brine), and drainage capillary pressure to experimental results. We then show that our model can successfully predict steady‐state relative permeability measurements on a water‐wet Estaillades carbonate sample within the uncertainty of the experiments and modeling. Our approach of incorporating sub‐resolution porosity in two‐phase flow modeling using image‐based multiscale pore network techniques can capture complex pore structures and accurately predict flow behavior in porous materials with a wide range of pore size. A dilation‐based algorithm adds sub‐resolution porosity, quantified by differential imaging, as microlinks to an extracted pore networkEmpirical models are used to characterize the flow properties of microlinksThe tuned multiscale network, using permeability, formation factor, and capillary pressure, matches experimental relative permeability A dilation‐based algorithm adds sub‐resolution porosity, quantified by differential imaging, as microlinks to an extracted pore network Empirical models are used to characterize the flow properties of microlinks The tuned multiscale network, using permeability, formation factor, and capillary pressure, matches experimental relative permeability