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The experiment was conducted on the 907A high strength steel T-joint weldment with double pass laser based on the fiber laser welding system. The welds were fully characterized by means of metallography, microhardness and tensile test. It can be concluded that when the welding speed and defocus amount remain unchanged, the width and penetration of two weld beads increase with the increase of laser power. Uniform thin lathy martensite was found in the weld seam, which may have something to do with the preheating by the first scan and the effect of heat treatment of the second pass laser. Residual austenite and a small amount of carbides were found in the heat affected zone (HAZ). The microhardness of weld seam and HAZ are all higher than the base metal. Dimple and cleavage steps feature were easy to be found from the fractograph of the tensile samples, which can be concluded that ductile-brittle compound fracture was reached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Antiangiogenesis therapy plays an important role in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, treatment options for HCC recurrence after liver transplantation are currently limited. Apatinib is a small tyrosine kinase inhibitor molecule targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2. Here, we report for the first time one case of a patient with advanced HCC who received apatinib after occurring lung metastasis 7 months after liver transplantation. He took 500 mg of apatinib daily for one month, which was decreased to 250 mg daily because of side effects. The patient was confirmed to have a partial response, according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, for 10 months, and the progression-free survival time was greater than 21 months. Our data and experience have indicated that apatinib may be a good choice for HCC recurrence after liver transplantation. Highlights • Targeted therapy serves as an important role in the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after liver transplantation. • In this report, we found that treatment with apatinib for HCC recurrence after liver transplantation showed excellent efficacy. • Apatinib might perform superiorly for metastases of advanced HCC after transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Port‐wine macrocheilia (PWM) involves a congenital, progressive capillary malformation that results in soft‐tissue hypertrophy in the lips. Its aetiology has not yet been fully elucidated. Objectives: To investigate frequencies of GNAQ mutation in different tissues from patients with PWM, including skin, mucosa, gland and muscle, using samples obtained during cheiloplasty. Methods: Targeted next‐generation sequencing of GNAQ was designed and performed to assess DNA extracted from 80 different affected tissues from 20 patients with PWM. Results: The GNAQ R183Q mutation was not detected in gland samples but was found in 90%, 95% and 95% of the skin, mucosal and muscle samples, respectively. The lowest levels of mutations were found in the glands (P < 0·001 vs. skin, mucosa and muscle), and levels were second lowest in the skin (P = 0·023 vs. mucosa; P = 0·012 vs. muscle). The mutation frequencies in mucosa and muscle were the highest and showed no statistically significant difference (P = 0·92). Conclusions: In patients with PWM, GNAQ was mutated in all tissues except for glands. PWM is congenital, and all tissue layers exhibit primary hypertrophy rather than acquired or partially related hypertrophy. Given the advantages of mucosal biopsy, including practicality, lack of scarring and rapid healing, GNAQ mutation in the lip mucosa may be a useful predictor for early‐stage PWM in patients with port‐wine stains affecting the lips. What's already known about this topic? Port‐wine stains are caused by a somatic activating mutation in GNAQ, a protein that mediates signals between G‐protein‐coupled receptors and downstream effectors.There is limited information regarding the genetic study of patients with port‐wine macrocheilia. What does this study add? Our data suggest different GNAQ mutation frequencies in the structures of port‐wine macrocheilia. What is the translational message? Our results suggest that GNAQ mutations in mucosa may be a predictor for early‐stage port‐wine macrocheilia. Respond to this article Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Wool is composed primarily of proteins belonging to the keratin family. These include the keratins and keratin‐associated proteins (KAPs) that are responsible for the structural and mechanical properties of wool fibre. Although all human keratin and KAP genes have been annotated, many of their ovine counterparts remain unknown and even less is known about their genomic organisation. The aim of this study was to use a combinatory approach including comprehensive cDNA and de novo genomic sequencing to identify ovine keratin and KAP genes and their genomic organisation and to validate the keratins and KAPs involved in wool production using ovine expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries and proteomics. The number of genes and their genomic organisation are generally conserved between sheep, cattle and human, despite some unique features in the sheep. Validation by protein mass spectrometry identified multiple keratins (types I and II), epithelial keratins and KAPs. However, 15 EST‐derived genes, including one type II keratin and 14 KAPs, were identified in the sheep genome that were not present in the NCBI gene set, providing a significant increase in the number of keratin genes mapped on the sheep genome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background and Aims: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation related hepatic vein occlusive disease (HSCT‐HVOD) has been researched extensively; however, little is known about the clinical features and treatment of pyrrolizidine alkaloid‐induced HVOD (PA‐HVOD). This retrospective single centre study examined the clinical and laboratory characteristics of 108 patients with acute PA‐HVOD and explored the efficacy of anticoagulation and TIPS therapy. Methods: The study included 108 consecutive patients with PA‐HVOD between July 2008 and June 2016. The clinical manifestations and the results of laboratory and imaging tests were evaluated. The survival rates of patients treated with different approaches were recorded. Results: Serum total bilirubin was <34.2 μmol/L (2 mg/dL) in approximately 40% of patients. More than 90% of patients were presented with hepatomegaly, uneven liver perfusion in the balance phase, compressive stenosis of the hepatic segmental inferior vena cava and decreased peak velocity of portal vein blood flow. Severe portal hypertension was observed in all patients undergoing HVPG examination or TIPS operation. Anticoagulation therapy with low molecular weight heparin combined with warfarin was significantly more effective than liver protection and supportive therapy, and TIPS further improved the prognosis of patients who did not respond to anticoagulation therapy. The total effective rate of the anticoagulation‐TIPS ladder therapeutic strategy was 91%. Conclusions: Patients with PA‐HVOD had different characteristics than those with HSCT‐HVOD. Anticoagulation and TIPS treatment may be effective for patients with PA‐HVOD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-rewetting fluid has a quadratic temperature dependence of surface tension with a well-defined minimum, which is distinct from that of normal fluids whose surface tension decreases linearly with temperature. The instability of a self-rewetting film on a vertical hot or cold fiber is investigated using the long-wave asymptotic model, which discovers that the role of the thermocapillarity varies in three different regimes. In the normal regime, the behavior of this fluid is similar to that of a normal fluid while in another anomalous regime, it shows a reverse feature of instability. It is this reverse behavior that guarantees the potentials of this fluid in heat transfer applications. Transient numerical simulations are also performed to be compared with the linear theory and to explore the saturate states as well as the breakup for this special fluid. Apart from supporting the conclusions obtained in the linear analysis, noticeably, the numerical results predict a flatter saturate shape and a weaker breakup in the anomalous regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) introduced to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) also interrupted the transmission of influenza. This is a descriptive epidemiological study. Data on changes in the number of reported influenza cases, number of influenza-like illness (ILI) visits, ILI percentage and influenza virus positivity were compared between the first 18 weeks of 2020 and the same period of 2019. The changes in the weekly average number of influenza cases were statistically significant between 2020 and 2019 (−4319 vs −525 per week; P < 0.05). The slopes of regression lines for the number of ILI visits were also statistically significant between 2020 and 2019 (−911 vs −98 per week; P < 0.05). This study found that the prevalence of influenza was substantially decreased when NPIs were implemented for the containment of COVID-19. • The prevalence of influenza was substantially decreased when non-pharmaceutical interventions were implemented for the containment of coronavirus disease 2019. • Changes in the weekly average number of influenza cases were statistically significant between 2020 and 2019 (−4319 vs −525 per week; P < 0.05). • Changes in the number of influenza-like illness visits were also statistically significant between 2020 and 2019 (−911 vs −98 per week; P < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied an electric breakdown in an 80-cm-long discharge tube with the inner diameter of 1.5 cm (the so-called "long discharge tube") in xenon at 1 Torr. The discharge was initiated by positive pulses of ramp voltage with a rise rate dU/dt on the order of 10–1–105 kV/s. The breakdown voltage was measured in darkness and upon tube illumination by fluorescent lamps, LEDs, or a diode laser. The effect of illumination depends on the slope of the pulse leading edge. The voltage drops at dU/dt > 100 kV/s, while growing at dU/dt < 100 kV/s. The voltage increases by a factor of six for the voltage slope of 0.1–1 kV/s. The dependence of the observed effect on radiation intensity, wavelength, and position of the illuminated area on the tube surface is studied. The pre-breakdown ionization wave behaves unusually under the described conditions: its speed and intensity of emission at its front grow in the course of wave propagation. Photodesorption of electrons from the tube surface as a result of which the wall near the anode becomes positively charged is assumed to represent the mechanism of the observed phenomena. This causes an increase in the breakdown voltage and accelerated propagation of the ionization wave. Additional experiments confirm the presence of the wall charge in the near-anode region under the discussed conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate whether Stage IIIC (TanyN3M0) breast cancer can be classified further into subgroups with different prognosis.Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty-two patients with Stage IIIC breast cancer at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital were analyzed. The disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were calculated by Kaplan-Meier method for lymph node ratio (LNR) and the number of positive lymph node (PLN). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut-off value of the LNR and PLN. The univariate and multivariate analysis were applied to identify the prognostic factors.Results: The results showed that the optimal cut-off value of LNR value was 0.65, and the optimal cut-off value of PLN was 15. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed the higher value of LNR or PLN was correlated with shortened DFS (P = 0.002, P = 0.008, respectively) and OS (P < 0.001, P = 0.001, respectively). In multivariate survival analysis, the value of LNR and PLN were still remained as independent prognostic factors for DFS (P = 0.014, P = 0.013, respectively) and OS (P = 0.004, P = 0.002, respectively).Conclusion: These results suggest that the value of LNR or PLN could be used as a new significant prognostic biomarker for Stage IIIC breast cancer patients. Stage IIIC breast cancer patients with lower value of LNR or PLN may be down staged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigated the effects of different additives on fermentation quality and aerobic stability of Leymus chinensis silage. Treatments included (i) no additive, (ii) 3 mL kg−1 formic acid (FA), (iii) 6 mL kg−1 FA, (iv) 5 mL kg−1 acetic acid (AA), (v) 10 mL kg−1 AA, (vi) 2 mL kg−1 propionic acid (PA), (vii) 4 mL kg−1 PA, (viii) 5 mL kg−1 butyric acid (BA), (ix) 10 mL kg−1 BA, (x) 1.0 g kg−1 potassium sorbate (PS), (xi) 1.0 g kg−1 sodium benzoate (SB), (xii) 1 × 108 colony‐forming units (cfu) kg−1Lactobacillus (Lb) plantarum LP (LP), (xiii) 1 × 108 cfu kg−1Lb. brevis LB (LB) and (xiv) 1 × 108 cfu kg−1Lb. buchneri NCIMB40788 (Fresh). Each additive treatment was based on fresh matter (FM). Results showed that all additives decreased pH values. All additives except Fresh decreased ammonia‐N content (p < .001). Both LP and LB increased lactic acid content (p < .001). Butyric acid content increased with FA (3 mL kg−1) and BA, but decreased with PA, PS, SB, FA (6 mL kg−1), AA, LP, LB (p < .001). FA (3 mL kg−1), AA (10 mL kg−1), PA, BA, PS, SB and Fresh improved aerobic stability (p < .001). After 8 days exposure to air, the pH value and yeast count were lower in FA (3 mL kg−1), BA (10 mL kg−1), SB treatments than in other treatments. Overall, AA outperformed all other additives in improving fermentation quality. Sodium benzoate and AA could be used as an effective additive to improve aerobic stability of L. chinensis silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncertainty remains over what properties of biochar and which groups of microorganisms are responsible for the direction and magnitude of observed biochar‐induced priming effects (PE). We selected maize straw, grass, peanut shells and sugar cane as feedstocks to produce biochar at 300, 400 and 500°C by slow pyrolysis, and carried out an 80‐day soil–biochar incubation experiment to investigate biochar‐induced soil PE by adopting isotopic techniques. Irrespective of pyrolysis temperature, grass‐derived biochar (Grass‐B) induced the largest PE (348 to 1214 mg C kg−1 soil), whereas peanut shell‐derived biochar (Peanut‐B) induced the smallest (−135 to 261 mg C kg−1 soil) PE. The intensity of PE was largely determined by the feedstock and was closely related to the proportion of cellulose and lignin in it. The bacterial and fungal communities at days 8 and 40 were investigated by high‐throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS genes. Biochar additions explained 54.0 and 52.9% of the total variation in bacterial and fungal community structure, respectively. The bacterial Actinobacteria and Firmicutes were dominant during the initial phase of the PE (at day 8), whereas the fungal Sordariomycetes and Tremellomycetes were abundant after the longer phase of incubation at day 40. A succession from bacterial community (used the available C fraction of biochar) to fungal community (used the recalcitrant C fraction of biochar and soil organic C) might occur during the PE, together with the alternation of apparent PE to real PE. Highlights: Feedstock type determines biochar‐induced priming effects (PE). A succession from bacterial to fungal community occurred. Actinobacteria and Firmicutes used biochar available C during the early stage. Sordariomycetes and Tremellomycetes were associated with the later real PE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inertia friction (IF) welding was used to fabricate butt joints between AISI type 304L stainless steel and AISI 1018 steel for proof of concept work directed toward novel corrosion-resistant cladding applications. Microstructure and mechanical property trends were identified within each joint in the radial and axial directions. Rotation speed and axial force (pressure) were varied to determine the effects of processing on joint morphology, microstructure, and mechanical properties. Light optical microscopy (LOM) was used to correlate processing parameters with microstructural characteristics. Microhardness mapping revealed the effects of processing conditions through the various weld zones. Tensile testing was performed using digital image correlation (DIC) with the tensile axis normal to the weld interface. Causal relationships were revealed between the processing parameters and microstructure and mechanical property variations in radial and axial directions. IF welding with low axial pressure resulted in an enlarged softened zone near the centerline, whereas high axial pressure resulted in an enlarged softened zone near the periphery. High rotation speed caused an enlarged heat-affected zone (HAZ), and low rotation speed resulted in bond line fracture for the tensile test near the periphery. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) examinations were performed on the bond line fracture surface. The presence of voids at the bond line, near the periphery, detrimental to joint mechanical properties corresponded with inadequate energy input for the low-rotation-speed joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The memory effect (the dependence of the dynamic breakdown voltage Ub on the time interval τ between voltage pulses) in pulse-periodic discharges in pure argon and the Ar + 1%N2 mixture was studied experimentally. The discharge was ignited in a 2.8-cm-diameter tube with an interelectrode distance of 75 cm. The measurements were performed at gas pressures of P = 1, 2, and 5 Torr and discharge currents in a steady stage of the discharge of I = 20 and 56 mA. Breakdown was produced by applying positive-polarity voltage pulses, the time interval between pulses being in the range of τ = 0.5-40 ms. In this range of τ values, a local maximum (the anomalous memory effect) was observed in the dependence Ub(τ). It is shown that addition of nitrogen to argon substantially narrows the range of τ values at which this effect takes place. To analyze the measurement results, the plasma parameters in a steady-state discharge (in both pure argon and the Ar + 1%N2 mixture) and its afterglow were calculated for the given experimental conditions. Analysis of the experimental data shows that the influence of the nitrogen admixture on the shape of the dependence Ub(τ) is, to a large extent, caused by the change in the decay rate of the argon afterglow plasma in the presence of a nitrogen admixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, which is a continuation of our earlier work, the effect of double-atom vacancy defects (DAVD) on the elastic properties of single-layered graphene sheets (SLGS)-polymer nanocomposites is assessed by the multiscale modeling. According to the latter approach, the polymer matrix is modeled by finite element approach, while the SLGS and interphase layer are simulated at the atomistic scale by the molecular structural mechanics approach. In view of the Lennard-Jones potential concept, it is assumed that the SLGS and polymer matrix are related by van der Waals reciprocity. The fact that the elastic modulus of a polymer with 5% volume fraction of SLGS is increased by 17 times is demonstrated by numerous simulation results. It is also shown that the elastic modulus of SLGS-polymer nanocomposites with DAVDs is deteriorated with an increase in the number of DAVDs and improved with the increased volume fraction of SLGS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A molecular structural mechanics approach is used to study the effect of double-atom vacancy defects (DAVD) on the elastic properties of zigzag and armchair single-layered graphene sheets (SLGS). To this end, the space frame structure is also adopted to model the interatomic forces of the C-C bonds. The numerical simulation results obtained via the finite element method strongly suggest that double-atom vacancy defects reduce the elastic module of SLGS, which effect weakens with graphene size. Finally, the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of SLGS are found to decrease with the number of DAVDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lv family tombs in Lantian, Shaanxi Province are one of the most important archaeological sites of China in recent years, providing numerous objects and a wealth of information for the study of the history of the Northern Song dynasty. There were a large number of exquisite cultural relics unearthed from the tombs, including one porcelain box containing white powder, which was identified as women's makeup. The phase composition, microstructure, thermal properties and characteristics of the trace elements in the unearthed white cosmetic powder were comprehensively analysed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry - thermogravimetry (DSC-TG), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) microscopy and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). The white makeup powder was determined to be a product made from high-quality freshwater pearls. These results, for the first time, showed evidence that freshwater pearl powder was used as a cosmetic in ancient China using archaeological objects, providing scientific evidence and new clues to enrich and expand research into the ancient Chinese cosmetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of altering pH and solids passage rate (kp) on concentration of aqueous H2 [H2 (aq)], CH4 production, volatile fatty acids (VFA) production, and fiber digestibility in a continuous culture fermentation system. The present study was conducted as a 2 x 2 factorial treatment arrangement in a Latin square design using continuous culture fermentors (n = 4). Our continuous culture system was converted to a closed system to measure CH4 and H2 emission while measuring H2 (aq) concentration and VFA production for complete stoichiometric assessment of fermentation pattern. Treatments were control pH (CpH; ranging from 6.3 to 6.9) or low pH (LpH; 5.8 to 6.4) factorialized with solids kp that was adjusted to be either low (Lkp; 2.5%/h) or high (Hkp; 5.0%/h); liquid dilution was maintained at 7.0%/h. Fermentors were fed once daily (40 g of dry matter; 50:50 concentrate:forage diet). Four periods lasted 10 d each, with 3 d of sample collection. The main effect of LpH increased nonammonia nitrogen flow, and both LpH and Hkp increased nonammonia nonbacterial N flow. We observed a tendency for Hkp to increase bacterial N flow per unit of nonstructural carbohydrates and neutral detergent fiber degraded. The main effect of LpH decreased H2(aq) by 4.33 µM compared with CpH. The main effect of LpH decreased CH4 production rate from 5 to 9 h postfeeding, and Hkp decreased CH4 production rate from 3 to 9 h postfeeding. We found no effect of LpH on daily CH4 production or CH4 produced per gram of neutral detergent fiber degraded, but Hkp decreased daily CH4 production by 33.2%. Both the main effects of LpH and Hkp decreased acetate molar percentage compared with CpH and Lkp, respectively. The main effect of both LpH and Hkp increased propionate molar percentage, decreasing acetate-to-propionate ratio from 2.62 to 2.34. We noted no treatment effects on butyrate molar percentage or total VFA production. The results indicate increasing kp and decreasing pH decreased acetate-to-propionate ratio, but only increasing kp decreased CH4 production; lack of differences for LpH might be a result of compensatory methanogenesis during the second half of the day postfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isostructural lanthanide metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) are synthesized by the spontaneous self-assembly of lanthanide ions (Ln = La3+, Tb3+ and Eu3+) with H 3 cpioa (5-(4-carboxy-lphenoxy)-isophthalic) ligands. Based on the detailed study on the structural properties, it's found that different Ln ions have identical coordination environment in Ln(cpioa) MOF. By adjustment of the molar ratio of Ln ions, the chromaticity of Ln(cpioa) MOF can be easily modulated. La 0.9 Tb 0.093 Eu 0.007 (cpioa) (CIE coordinate: (0.319, 0.331)) shows a white emission very close to pure white-light (0.333, 0.333) with a high quantum yields of 54.74%. Furthermore, corresponding white LED devices were fabricated, which indicates Ln(cpioa) MOF might be a promising candidate phosphor for the WLED applications. [Display omitted] • Three stable isostructural lanthanide metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) Ln(cpioa) (Ln = La3+, Tb3+, Eu3+) with high luminescent efficiency are synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. • Based on the tunable chromaticity of Tb3+ and Eu3+ co-doped Ln(cpioa) MOFs, a white light emission MOF: La 0.9 Tb 0.093 Eu 0.007 (cpioa) (CIE coordinate: (0.319, 0.331)) with a high quantum yield of 54.74% was obtained. Two feasible energy transfer mechanisms: the "Antenna Effect" and the dipole-dipole interactions in the framework were discussed in details. • LED devices with different colors were also fabricated and results indicate that Ln(cpioa) MOF might be a promising candidate phosphor for the WLED applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical constants of single-crystal AlxGa1−xP and AlxGa1−xAs have been widely studied at various Al compositions but have not yet been thoroughly investigated as polycrystalline materials. Using variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry, we estimate and analyze the optical constants of polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P and Al0.9Ga0.1As that were non-epitaxially deposited at deposition temperatures of either 250 or 420 °C, and with various dopant species, dopant concentrations, and V/III flux ratios. For wavelengths of 350–400 nm, decreasing the V/III ratio increases the refractive index of Be-doped polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P. For wavelengths >500 nm, as the targeted Be dopant concentration increases for polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P, the amount the extinction coefficient increases and the indirect bandgap decreases depends on the V/III ratio. Furthermore, Si-doped polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P has significantly smaller extinction coefficient values than when it is Be-doped, for the same V/III ratio and targeted doping concentration, at wavelengths >500 nm. Based on our findings, we hypothesize that the dopant species, dopant concentration, and the V/III ratio dictate various types of defect concentrations, which then affect the optical constants and indirect bandgap of polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P. Additionally, for wavelengths >500 nm, we find that polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P and Al0.9Ga0.1As have the lowest extinction coefficient values when deposited at 420 °C, as opposed to 250 °C. Thus, we hypothesize that the deposition temperature is the most significant factor in dictating the optical constants of these polycrystalline III-Vs. Ultimately, this work demonstrates alternative methods to tune the optical constants of polycrystalline Al0.25Ga0.75P and Al0.9Ga0.1As, as opposed to tuning the Al composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils are among the major terrestrial reservoirs of atmospheric Be isotope and provide information of landscape evolution history. Despite this importance, there is no overview of the global soil Be fluxes in topsoil that is linked with atmospheric flux models. A comparison between measured (in topsoil) and atmospherically modeled Be fluxes is presented here. The data show relatively good agreement in the latitudinal trends. This feature demonstrates the potential to use the modeling data in estimating soil development/erosion rates in large scale basins where extensive Be measurements can be limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We designed a [001] tilt grain boundary by self-diffusion bonding technique in a single crystal superalloy. The effects of the grain boundary plane as well as its misorientation on discontinuous precipitation (DP) were investigated quantitatively. The anisotropic formation of DP colonies was associated with the anisotropic mobility of grain boundary plane. The critical misorientation for DP transformation is in between 20 and 25° for SXG3 alloy. The method proposed in this work can be used to investigate the misorientation tolerance of grain boundaries that occurs during casting of single crystal turbine blade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of different combinations of added lactic acid bacteria and cellulase applied at two growth stages on chemical composition and in vitro rumen digestibility of Leymus chinensis silage. Fresh grass was harvested at early heading stage (S1) and late heading stage (S2), respectively, and ensiled with five additives: 200 U cellulase (C) kg−1 fresh matter ( FM), 1 × 105 colony-forming units (cfu) Lactobacillus plantarum ( LP) g−1 FM, 1 × 105 cfu Lb. casei ( LC) g−1 FM, LP+C, LC+C and a control ( CK). Four replicates of each treatment were weighed into 5-L plastic buckets, and the mini silos were stored at ambient temperature (~30°C) for 60 d. Leymus chinensis harvested at S2 showed relatively higher neutral detergent fibre content, coliform bacteria count and lower crude protein content than S1. All additives decreased the pH and ammonia nitrogen ( NH3-N) content of L. chinensis silage ( P < 0·001) except C. LP+C and LC+C decreased fibre content and increased water-soluble carbohydrate content ( P < 0·001). The silages were further anaerobically incubated in vitro at 39°C for 48 h with buffered rumen fluids of lactating cows. Leymus chinensis harvested at S2 showed lower in vitro dry-matter disappearance, NH3-N, total volatile fatty acid ( VFA) content and higher average gas production rate ( P < 0·05) than S1. In conclusion, Leymus chinensis should not be harvested too late. Compared with other treatments, a combination of Lb. casei ( LC) with cellulase resulted in better fermented silage, but further testing is needed to confirm its efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase change thermal control method is now widely used in aircraft thermal protection due to its high energy density, constant temperature control, flexible operation, and many other advantages.1-6 However, thermal conductivity of most current phase change materials is low in phase transition process.7-10 This paper will add high thermal nanoparticles to phase change material in order to enhance the thermal conductivity, which, however, has some problems, such as settlement in the macro, reunion at the micro, etc. These problems also influence the improvement of the thermal conductivity. In view of this, a dispersing agent was introduced to these phase change materials, and then the mixed solution was subjected to ultrasonic dispersion. According to the test results, this treatment was effective in maximizing thermal conductivity of the composite phase change materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple damage model with the concept of mode-II microcracks on crack wall contributing to the irreversible strains for concrete is developed. By applying the micromechanics method, a microcell-based damage model is introduced to understand the damage behaviour. Further, by introducing the physical interpretation of the damage variable using thermodynamic method, a novel damage variable (irreversible-damage variable) is proposed to describe the irrecoverable strains generated by both mode-II microcracks and irreversible-frictional sliding. With this methodology, a simple continuum damage mechanics model is developed in which both elastic and irreversible damages are considered. As demonstrated by the comparison with experimental results, the proposed model is characterized by accuracy of solutions, sufficiency of physical sense and convenience of implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yeast hybrid systems have been widely used due to their convenience and low cost. Based on these systems, many methods have been developed to analyze protein-protein, protein-DNA and protein-RNA interactions. In this paper, we are reviewing these different yeast hybrid systems. According to the number of hybrid proteins, yeast hybrid systems can be divided into three categories, yeast one-hybrid, yeast two-hybrid and yeast three-hybrid systems. Alternatively, yeast hybrid systems can be categorized according to the subcellular localization of the protein interaction process in the cell into nuclear protein-protein interactions, cytosol protein-protein interactions and membrane protein-protein interactions. Throughout the review, we focus on the progress and limitations of each yeast hybrid system over the recent years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic bacteria colonize in plant tissues and enhance plant growth by a wide variety of mechanisms. The objectives of this study were to examine the population of root endophytic bacteria in soybean and corn, and to identify IAA-producing endophytic bacterial strains and their growth promoting effect. The density of endophytic bacteria varied irrespective of crops, sampling times and soil amendments. A total of 119 and 277 bacterial isolates were isolated from soybean and corn roots, respectively. 39.6% of the total isolates showed IAA production in the range of 1~23 µg mL-1 in culture medium supplemented with tryptophan. Fourteen isolates, designated as S1-S4 from soybean roots and C1-C10 from corn roots, had the capacity of producing IAA over 10 mg L-1. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the fourteen isolates were closely related to Psychrobacillus, Microbacterium, Lysinibacillus and Bacillus. Pot experiment indicated that the growth-promoting effects varied among these 14 bacterial strains and not all of the strains were able to promote growth of the tested soybean and wheat plants. Strains Microbacterium sp. C4 and Lysinibacillus sp. C7 showed better performances in promoting soybean and wheat seedling growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZSM-5/MCM-41 composites with tailored properties have been receiving great attention nowadays; however, their low-cost preparation process remains a challenge. The present study offered a low-cost synthesis of ZSM-5/MCM-41 composite using diatomite as silica source by monitoring the re-crystallisation time in a two-step crystallisation process. The obtained samples were characterised by X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption–desorption measurements, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. It was shown that the resulting ZSM-5/MCM-41 composite possessed a well-ordered mesoporous MCM-41 phase and ZSM-5 microporous phase. The composite was also compared with the mechanical mixture of ZSM-5 and MCM-41 and the results showed that the structure of both materials was different. In addition, the effect of re-crystallisation time on the synthesis of ZSM-5/MCM-41 composite was also investigated in detail. The experimental results indicated that the re-crystallisation time was a key factor for the formation of the composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, due to synergy enhancement of anti-tumor effects and potent stimulation of abscopal effects, combination therapy of irradiation and PD-1/L1 immune checkpoint inhibition (iRT) has revolutionized the therapeutic guidelines. It's been demonstrated that tumor draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) are essential for effective antitumor immunity induced by radiotherapy, immunotherapy or iRT. Given that the function of TDLNs in iRT is still unclear, we investigated the role of TDLNs in iRT induced abscopal effects and the possible mechanisms. The function of TDLNs was evaluated using unilateral or bilateral MC38 and B16F10 subcutaneous tumor models with or without indicated TDLNs. The flow cytometry, multiple immunofluorescence analysis and multiplex analysis were utilized to detect the composition and function of the immune cells in the primary and abscopal tumor microenvironments. And we tempted to interrogate the possible mechanisms via RNA-seq of tumor infiltrated lymphocytes and TDLNs. Finally, we assessed the prognosis of breast cancer patients subjected to various numbers of TDLNs removal. We found that monotherapy or iRT deficient of TDLNs restored the tumor progression to a mild degree, and bilateral TDLNs removal rather than unilateral TDLNs removal substantially curtailed iRT-stimulated anti-tumor effects and abscopal effects. Moreover, we showed that with the absence of TDLNs, the infiltration of CD45+ cells and CD8+ T cells was substantially reduced in both the primary and abscopal tumors, and the anti-tumor function of CD8+ T cells was attenuated as well. Additionally, the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages in primary and abscopal tumors relied on intact bilateral TDLNs. RNA-seq data indicated that impaired infiltration and anti-tumor effects of immune cells may partially attribute to the altered secretion of tumor microenvironments. Our results highlight that TDLNs play a critical role in iRT via promoting the infiltration of CD8+ T-cells and maintaining the M1/M2 macrophage ratio. Currently, surgical removal or radiation ablation of TDLNs are standard treatments in various types of cancers and are regarded to avoid tumor metastasis and promote prognosis. Based on our findings, whether the regional TDLNs should be preserved in clinical practice should be deliberately considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new theoretical model considering the bending effect for the thick films (the ratio η of thickness to radius was larger than 1/80) using the bulge test method was established based on the energy method. The experiments of Ti films and PVDF films of different ratio η had validated the feasibility of the new theory. The universal applicability of the new theoretical model for different mechanical parameters ( E and υ) was verified by FEM. The new expression of pressure-height could well predict the deformation of bulge test for the films with different thickness. As the ratio η increased, the competitive mechanism of bending energy gradually replacing stretching energy in the films was revealed. The modulus and the stress distribution of cross-section could be characterized correctly by the new theory for thick films using the bulge test technique. It will provide a powerful research tool to study the deformation mechanism of thick films in the bulge test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invisibility cloaks based on transformation optics are often closed structures; however, such a structure limits the kinds of objects that can be placed in the cloak. In this work, we adopt a transformation thermodynamics approach to design an "open cloak", called a plate directional heat transmission structure, which is capable of guiding heat fluxes to the flank region of the metamaterial device. The most fascinating and unique feature of the device is that the lower surface can remain at a lower temperature compared with the SiO2 aerogel thermal insulation material. Our results are expected to markedly enhance capabilities in thermal protection, thermal-energy utilization, and domains beyond. In addition to the theoretical analysis, the present design is demonstrated in numerical simulations based on finite element calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biobased aromatic triols were designed and synthesized from oleic acid, 10-undecenoic and erucic acid using optimized chemical reactions and purifications. Three aromatic triols were synthesized followed by cyclotrimerization of stearoyl alcohol, 10-undecyn-1-ol, and behenolic ester to obtain the aromatic triols and aromatic derivatives, and subsequent reduction of carboxylate groups to give primary hydroxyl groups. The analyses of these biobased aromatic triols were performed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A series of biobased segmented polyurethanes based on these aromatic triols, 1,4-butanediol as a chain extender and 4,4'-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) as a coupling agent, were synthesized. The sample materials were prepared with a hard-segment content up to 50%. The morphologies and thermal stability of these polyurethanes were studied by the FTIR spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The results showed that it could be feasible to use the renewable resources to manufacture the applicable and green materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottom-gate and top-contact thin-film transistors with ZnO film as a channel layer were fabricated by sol-gel method. The structural and optical properties of the deposited ZnO films were investigated through X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy and UV-Vis spectrophotometer. ZnO film has a high absorption in the ultraviolet region and c-axis orientation normal to the substrate. The on/off current ratio, channel mobility and threshold voltage of ZnO-based thin-film transistors in dark are 105, 0·02 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 8·3 V, respectively. Under UV light illumination ( λ = 365 nm) with an intensity of 2·4 μW/cm2, the drain-source current IDS of thin-film transistor dramatically increases and the photo-to-dark current ratio is greater than 104. The transient response of the device to ultraviolet illumination is also discussed. The results may open the possibility of employing ZnO-thin-film transistors as UV photodetector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work introduces a facile solution method for preparation of porous Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) thin film electrode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The porous LTO films were prepared by magnetron sputtering deposition using cubic spinel LTO powder target as a sputtering source. The microstructure and morphology of the LTO thin films annealed in air (LTO-air) was porous structured thin film. The LTO-air thin film electrode showed the excellent electrochemical performance. The capacity of LTO-air up to 81 μAh cm−2μm was at 10 μA cm−2, and capacity retention was 99% after 100 cycles at 10 μA cm−2. The porous structure features of thin film likely contributed to the good electrochemical performance of the LTO-air thin film. This research suggests that LTO thin films have the potential for the high energy storage electrode material for LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the adverse influence of blasting load type on the tunnel surrounding rock, based on the Mohr-Coulomb's theory, by using the FLAC3D software, we analysed the influence of the two kinds of loading mode, equivalent triangle pulse load and the particle vibration velocity, on the dynamic response of the surrounding rock. The results showed that two kinds of loading mode near the tunnel face, tunnel side wall horizontal vibration of the particle is far greater than that of the other particles; by loading velocity time history, most of the regional model of the maximum tensile stress exceeds the tensile strength of rock mass; while loading the triangle pulse, the maximum tensile stress of the most regional model exceeds the tensile strength of rock mass. Loading the triangle pulse of the vertical displacement is larger; the vault shows tensile failure. Plastic zone distribution is not in accordance with the actual rules. Therefore, damage effect analysis of blasting on the surrounding rock should consider blasting load types and puts forward the corresponding engineering measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the spin Hall effect (SHE) in disordered π-conjugated organic solids, where individual molecules are oriented randomly and electrical conduction is via carrier hopping. The SHE, which arises from interference between direct (i→j) and indirect (i→k→j) hoppings in a triad consisting of three molecules i, j, and k, is found to be proportional to λ(ni×nj+nj×nk+nk×ni), where λ is the spin admixture of π electrons due to the spin-orbit coupling and ni is the orientation vector of molecule i. Electrical conductivity σqq (q=x,y,z) and spin Hall conductivity σsh are computed by numerically solving the master equations of a system containing 32×32×32 molecules and summing over contributions from all triads in the system. The obtained value of the spin Hall angle Θsh is consistent with experimental data in PEDOT:PSS, with a predicted temperature dependence of logΘsh~T-1/4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To investigate the effect of garlic oil (G), nitrate (N), saponin (S) and their combinations supplemented to different forage to concentrate substrates on methanogenesis, fermentation, diversity and abundances of bacteria and Archaea in vitro. Methods and Results The study was conducted in an 8 × 2 factorial design with eight treatments and two substrates using mixed ruminal batch cultures obtained. Quillaja S (0·6 g l−1), N (5 mmol l−1) and G (0·27 g l−1) were used separately or in binary and tertiary combinations. The two substrates contained grass hay and a dairy concentrate mixture at a 70 : 30 (high-forage substrate) ratio or a 30 : 70 (high-concentrate substrate) ratio. Ruminal fermentation and cellulolytic bacterial populations were affected by interaction between substrate and anti-methanogenic compounds. The inhibitor combinations decreased the methane production additively regardless of substrate. For the high-concentrate substrate, S decreased methane production to a greater extent, so did G and N individually for the high-forage substrate. Feed degradability and total volatile fatty acid ( VFA) concentrations were not decreased by any of the treatments. Fibre degradability was actually improved by N+S for the high-forage substrate. VFA concentrations and profiles were affected differently by different anti-methanogenic inhibitors and their combinations. All treatments inhibited the growth of Archaea, but the effect on Fibrobacter succinogenes, Ruminococcus albus and Ruminococcus flavefaciens varied. Conclusions The results suggest that substrate influences the efficacy of these inhibitors when they are used separately, but in combinations, they can lower methanogenesis additively without much influence from the substrate. Significance and Impact of the Study The presented research provided evidence that binary and tertiary combination of garlic oil, nitrate and saponin can lower the methane production additively without adversely impacting rumen fermentation and degradability, and forage to concentrate ratio does not change the above effects. These anti-methanogenic inhibitors in combination may have practical application to mitigate methane emission from ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reverberation mapping is the leading technique used to measure direct black hole masses outside of the local Universe. Additionally, reverberation measurements calibrate secondary mass-scaling relations used to estimate single-epoch virial black hole masses. The Australian Dark Energy Survey (OzDES) conducted one of the first multi-object reverberation mapping surveys, monitoring 735 AGN up to z ∼ 4, over 6 years. The limited temporal coverage of the OzDES data has hindered recovery of individual measurements for some classes of sources, particularly those with shorter reverberation lags or lags that fall within campaign season gaps. To alleviate this limitation, we perform a stacking analysis of the cross-correlation functions of sources with similar intrinsic properties to recover average composite reverberation lags. This analysis leads to the recovery of average lags in each redshift-luminosity bin across our sample. We present the average lags recovered for the Hβ, Mg  ii , and C  iv samples, as well as multiline measurements for redshift bins where two lines are accessible. The stacking analysis is consistent with the Radius–Luminosity relations for each line. Our results for the Hβ sample demonstrate that stacking has the potential to improve upon constraints on the R – L relation, which have been derived only from individual source measurements until now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context. Thermonuclear bursts, also known as type I X-ray bursts, result from unstable nuclear burning of H/He accreted to the surface of neutron stars, lasting from tens to hundreds of seconds. Thermonuclear bursts have an important impact on accretion environments around the neutron stars, such as their disks and coronas, and are therefore a subject of extensive research. Thermonuclear bursts can be used as probes to gain a deeper understanding of the properties of their disks and coronas. Aims. By analyzing the data from Insight-HXMT and NICER, we can determine the evolution of the significance of the hard shortage in 4U 1636–536 with its spectral state, as well as the evolution of the fraction of deficit with energy. Additionally, we investigate the possible geometry and evolution of the corona in 4U 1636–536 by combining our findings with the results of spectral analysis. Methods. We extracted the light curves from the Insight-HXMT low-energy, medium-energy, and high-energy data and subtracted their pre-burst emission, which allowed us to estimate the significance of the hard shortages during the bursts. By fitting the spectra, the correlation between the persistent spectral parameters and the significance of the hard shortages could be established. The bursts were then grouped according to the spectral state in which they occurred, and the significance of the hard shortages was estimated. These in turn helped to investigate the evolution of the fraction of deficit with energy. Results. We find that during the soft state the significance of possible hard X-ray shortage in bursts is almost zero. However, in the hard state, some bursts exhibit significant shortages (> 3σ), while others do not. We attempt to establish a correlation between the significance of the hard X-ray shortage and the spectral parameters, but the data quality and the limited number of bursts prevent us from finding a strong correlation. For bursts with insignificant shortages in the soft state, the fraction of the deficit remains small. However, in the hard state the fraction of deficit for all bursts increases with energy, regardless of the significance of the shortage of individual bursts. For bursts during the hard state, we investigated the evolution of the fraction of deficit during the bursts by stacking the peaks and decays of the bursts, and find that as the flux of the bursts decreases, the energy corresponding to the maximum of the fraction of deficit becomes progressively higher. Conclusions. We explore the possible geometry and evolution of the corona suggested by the evolution of the fraction of deficit, which is obtained from the spectral and temporal analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let { a n , n ≥ 1 } be a sequence of positive numbers and { X , X n , n ≥ 1 } be a sequence of identically distributed random variables. The strong law of large numbers and complete convergence for the partial sums of the random sequence { X , X n , n ≥ 1 } are established under the mild moment condition ∑ n = 1 ∞ P (| X | > a n) < ∞ and under general dependence conditions. These results generalize and extend some known works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical emission from atmospheric pressure micro-jet operating with pure argon (argon μAPPJ) flow has been detected with a moderate resolution spectrometer. Large broadening of the several argon (Ar) lines has been observed in the near infrared spectral region. This effect was attributed to resonance broadening of the s2 (Paschen notation) level in ³p54s configuration. In the present work, corresponding line profiles are suggested for plasma diagnostics. For this, a general case of resonance broadening coefficient of noble gases is discussed. As broadening reflects the Ar density, and the static gas pressure of the jet is in equilibrium with the ambient, the local gas temperature can be inferred. An estimation of gas temperature from the width of the 750 nm Ar line is in agreement with rotational temperature of OH radicals determined from the A²Σ+→X²ΠP (0, 0) band. At low temperatures (300-600 K) and at partial Ar pressure near atmospheric, the resonance width of the suggested lines is very sensitive to small temperature variations. High temperature sensitivity and large width make the resonance broadened lines very attractive for diagnostics of low temperature discharges at elevated pressure, e.g., as they are used in plasma-medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to develop an injectable in situ forming gel system based on Poloxamer for sustained release of Florfenicol (FFC). The formulations were prepared containing certain amounts of Poloxamer 407 (P407) and Poloxamer 188 (P188) alone or with hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-Na), or polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) as polymer additives. The optimal formulation was chosen according to in vitro parameters (gelation temperature, gelation time, pH value, viscosity, and in vitro release). Then the FFC in vivo pharmacokinetic character of the optimal formulation was investigated in dogs with a single dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. under s.c. injection. In vitro release studies, all formulations containing polymer additives had prolonged release time and decreased initial burst to some extent. The optimal formulation containing 0.15% HPMC showed a best sustained release profile for about 128 h with the lowest initial burst in vitro (<40% in 24 h). In vivo, the 20% FFC in situ forming gel provided prolonged drug release time within the therapeutic range for about 100 h, with stable plasma levels and elimination half-life ( t1/2 λz) nine times higher than the control formulation. In conclusion, in situ forming gel is an attractive alternative for FFC sustained release system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurements of trace elements leached from host rocks can indicate the source of flowing groundwater and provide the host rock's fingerprint information that may be useful in understanding the mixing patterns of different groundwaters and flowpaths. In this study, the leaching characteristics of three widely-distributed aquifer host rocks in Southern Nevada were investigated through leaching experiments of 13 trace elements under different experimental conditions (leaching time, pH, grain size, and rock mineralogy). The fraction of leached trace elements from different aquifer host rocks was calculated for examining the water-rock interaction in different conditions. The effect of host rock mineralogy on leachate composition was examined, which could provide useful information about groundwater source. Solute speciation and saturation indices were simulated using geochemical modeling to further explore the redistribution and leaching process of trace elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metagenomics and high-throughput sequencing have greatly expanded our knowledge of the rumen microbiome. Surveys of all 4 cellular microbial groups (bacteria, archaea, protozoa, and fungi) reveal profound diversity. Even so, evidence exists for core members to perform key degradative or fermentative roles for the host. Some core members are functionally similar yet taxonomically diverse, and noncore members are particularly diverse and probably vary among diets, animals, and over time after feeding. Gains in functional knowledge are being made and offer much potential not only to improve fiber digestibility, decrease methane emissions, and improve efficiency of nitrogen usage but also to help explain the differences in nutrient digestibility or feed efficiency among animals fed the same diet. Integrated research using metagenomics, bioinformatics, traditional ruminant nutrition, and statistical inferences have provided opportunities for ruminant nutritionists and rumen microbiologists to work synergistically to improve nutrient utilization efficiency while minimizing output of wastes and emissions of methane and ammonia. Examples we highlight include residual feed intake, rumen biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids, and dietary inclusion of ionophores. However, there are still some quantitative limitations in approaches being used. This review addresses knowledge gained and current limitations and challenges that remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The present meta-analysis shows that a nonlinear association between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fracture was observed. Light alcohol consumption was inversely significantly associated with hip fracture risk, whereas heavy alcohol consumption was associated with an elevated hip fracture risk. Introduction: Previous studies examining the association between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fracture have reported conflicting findings. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies to assess the association between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fracture. Methods: PubMed and EMBASE were searched for prospective cohort studies on the relationship between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fractures. Relative risks (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were derived using random-effects models throughout the whole analysis. Results: Eighteen prospective cohort studies were included with 3,730,424 participants and 26,168 hip fracture cases. Compared with non-drinkers, the pooled RR of hip fractures for alcohol consumption was 1.03 (95 % CI, 0.91-1.15), with high heterogeneity between studies ( P < 0.001, I = 72.6 %). A nonlinear relationship between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fracture was identified ( P = 0.003). Compared with non-drinkers, the pooled RRs of hip fractures were 0.88 (95 % CI, 0.83-0.89) for light alcohol consumption (0.01-12.5 g/day), 1.00 (95 % CI, 0.85-1.14) for moderate alcohol consumption (12.6-49.9 g/day), and 1.71 (95 % CI, 1.41-2.01) for heavy alcohol consumption (≥50 g/day). Conclusions: There was no evidence of publication bias. In conclusion, a nonlinear association between alcohol consumption and the risk of hip fracture was observed in this meta-analysis. Further, light alcohol consumption was inversely significantly associated with hip fracture risk, whereas heavy alcohol consumption was associated with an elevated hip fracture risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Drug-induced arrhythmia due to blockade of the Kv 11.1 channel (also known as the hERG K(+) channel) is a frequent side effect. Previous studies have primarily focused on equilibrium parameters, i.e. affinity or potency, of drug candidates at the channel. The aim of this study was to determine the kinetics of the interaction with the channel for a number of known Kv 11.1 blockers and to explore a possible correlation with the affinity or physicochemical properties of these compounds.Experimental Approach: The affinity and kinetic parameters of 15 prototypical Kv 11.1 inhibitors were evaluated in a number of [(3) H]-dofetilide binding assays. The lipophilicity (logKW - C8 ) and membrane partitioning (logKW - IAM ) of these compounds were determined by means of HPLC analysis.Key Results: A novel [(3) H]-dofetilide competition association assay was set up and validated, which allowed us to determine the binding kinetics of the Kv 11.1 blockers used in this study. Interestingly, the compounds' affinities (Ki values) were correlated to their association rates rather than dissociation rates. Overall lipophilicity or membrane partitioning of the compounds were not correlated to their affinity or rate constants for the channel.Conclusions and Implications: A compound's affinity for the Kv 11.1 channel is determined by its rate of association with the channel, while overall lipophilicity and membrane affinity are not. In more general terms, our findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of action for a compound's activity at the Kv 11.1 channel. This may help to elucidate how Kv 11.1-induced cardiotoxicity is governed and how it can be circumvented in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose Drug-induced arrhythmia due to blockade of the Kv11.1 channel (also known as the hERG K+ channel) is a frequent side effect. Previous studies have primarily focused on equilibrium parameters, i.e. affinity or potency, of drug candidates at the channel. The aim of this study was to determine the kinetics of the interaction with the channel for a number of known Kv11.1 blockers and to explore a possible correlation with the affinity or physicochemical properties of these compounds. Experimental Approach The affinity and kinetic parameters of 15 prototypical Kv11.1 inhibitors were evaluated in a number of [ 3H]-dofetilide binding assays. The lipophilicity (log KW- C8) and membrane partitioning (log KW- IAM) of these compounds were determined by means of HPLC analysis. Key Results A novel [ 3H]-dofetilide competition association assay was set up and validated, which allowed us to determine the binding kinetics of the Kv11.1 blockers used in this study. Interestingly, the compounds' affinities ( Ki values) were correlated to their association rates rather than dissociation rates. Overall lipophilicity or membrane partitioning of the compounds were not correlated to their affinity or rate constants for the channel. Conclusions and Implications A compound's affinity for the Kv11.1 channel is determined by its rate of association with the channel, while overall lipophilicity and membrane affinity are not. In more general terms, our findings provide novel insights into the mechanism of action for a compound's activity at the Kv11.1 channel. This may help to elucidate how Kv11.1-induced cardiotoxicity is governed and how it can be circumvented in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In real life, the vendor managed inventory (VMI) model is not always a stable supply chain partnership. This paper proposes a cooperative game based profit-sharing method to stabilize the VMI partnership. Specifically, in a B2C setting, we consider a VMI program including a manufacturer and multiple online retailers. The manufacturer provides the finished product at the equal wholesale price to multiple online retailers. The online retailers face the same customer demand information. We offer the model to compute the increased profits generated by information sharing for total possible VMI coalitions. Using the solution concept of Shapley value, the profit-sharing scheme is produced to fairly divide the total increased profits among the VMI members. We find that under a fair allocation scheme, the higher inventory cost of one VMI member increases the surplus of the other members. Furthermore, the manufacturer is glad to increase the size of VMI coalition, whereas, the retailers are delighted to limit the size of the alliance. Finally, the manufacturer can select the appropriate retailer to boost its surplus, which has no effect on the surplus of the other retailers. The numerical examples indicate that the grand coalition is stable under the proposed allocation scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Cracking behavior has been considered for the top coating in the thermal barrier coating system. The effect of the dimension and position of non-bonded lamellar interfaces on the stress distribution is investigated by the simulation method. Plasma-sprayed yttria-stabilized zirconia coatings are deposited at different spraying distances. The crack propagation behavior is studied by statistical analysis after the coatings have experienced different thermal cycles. The simulation results reveal that the normal stresses at the tips of non-bonded lamellar interfaces increase with the increment of the length of interfaces and with the decrease of the distance between them. The stress level almost stays the same with the changing of lamellar thickness. Experimental results indicate the correctness of the simulation. It is found that the length of non-bonded lamellar interfaces in the as-deposited coatings shows an increasing tendency with the spraying distance. The total crack length of coatings increases with the number of thermal cycles and the spraying distance after thermal cycling tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:To observe the long-term outcome of ossiculoplasty using autogenous mastoid cortical bone in chronic otitis media in-patients.Methods:Sixty-one ears of 57 in-patients with chronic otitis media, with or without cholesteatoma, underwent type III tympanoplasty using autogenous mastoid cortical bone as the prosthetic material. Twenty-one ears were treated by canal wall down mastoidectomy and 40 ears by canal wall up mastoidectomy. The follow-up period was 3 to 6 years (average 4.2 years). Pure tone averages for thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 kHz were calculated using standard conventional audiometry.Results:The pre-operative mean air–bone gap of 31.6 dB, for all ears, was reduced to 20.3 dB post-operatively. For the 40 canal wall up ears, this value decreased from 30.8 dB to 19.9 dB, and for the 21 canal wall down ears it decreased from 33.0 dB to 21.0 dB. The differences between the pre- and post-operative mean air–bone gap values were significant.Conclusion:No cases of extrusion, necrosis or resorption were exhibited for the autogenous mastoid cortical bone prosthesis. A significant hearing improvement was obtained in the majority of cases and this remained stable over time. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]