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Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of different low-energy virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) in dual-energy CT on the performance of radiomics models for predicting muscle invasive status in bladder cancer (BCa). Materials and methods: A total of 127 patients with pathologically proven muscle-invasive BCa (n = 49) and non-muscle-invasive BCa (n = 78) were randomly allocated into the training and test cohorts at a ratio of 7:3. Feature extraction was performed on the venous phase images reconstructed at 40, 50, 60 and 70-keV (single-energy analysis) or in combination (multi-energy analysis). Recursive feature elimination (RFE) and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were employed to select the most relevant features associated with BCa. Models were built using a support vector machine (SVM) classifier. Diagnostic performance was assessed through receiver operating characteristic curves, evaluating sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and the area-under-the curve (AUC) values. Results: In the test cohort, the multi-energy model achieved the best diagnostic performance with AUC, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and precision of 0.917, 0.800, 0.833, 0.821, and 0.750, respectively. Conversely, the single-energy model exhibited lower AUC and sensitivity in predicting the muscle invasion status. Conclusions: By combining information from VMIs of various energies, the multi-energy model displays superior performance in preoperatively predicting the muscle invasion status of bladder cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overuse of traditional petroleum-based packaging materials is one of the major factors aggravating environmental pollution. Therefore, it is an urgent need to develop green-replaceable and biodegradable packaging materials, which greatly promotes the development of the food packaging industry. Recently, the development of intelligent packaging and active packaging has become a research hotspot. Curcumin, having excellent functional properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and photosensitivity, has been used as an antimicrobial, an antioxidant, and a photosensitiser, as well as a pH indicator in the development of multifunctional films/coatings. However, it has not been widely used for its drawbacks such as poor water solubility and easy decomposition in the presence of light. It has been found that the limitations of its application can be improved by embedding measures such as nanoparticles, microcapsules, and nanofibres, or by encapsulating curcumin using substances with special structures. In addition, it can also be incorporated into membrane matrices in the form of encapsulation to prepare multifunctional packaging films. This paper reviews the current status of research on the embedding method and release effect of curcumin, its application in active and smart packaging, the development of photodynamic antimicrobial film based on it, and its joint use with metal antimicrobial agents in food packaging, which will provide a reference basis for the subsequent development of food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To demonstrate the clinical advantages of a deep-learning image reconstruction (DLIR) in low-dose dual-energy computed tomography enterography (DECTE) by comparing images with standard-dose adaptive iterative reconstruction-Veo (ASIR-V) images. Methods: In this Institutional review board approved prospective study, 86 participants who underwent DECTE were enrolled. The early-enteric phase scan was performed using standard-dose (noise index: 8) and images were reconstructed at 5 mm and 1.25 mm slice thickness with ASIR-V at a level of 40% (ASIR-V40%). The late-enteric phase scan used low-dose (noise index: 12) and images were reconstructed at 1.25 mm slice thickness with ASIR-V40%, and DLIR at medium (DLIR-M) and high (DLIR-H). The 70 keV monochromatic images were used for image comparison and analysis. For objective assessment, image noise, artifact index, SNR and CNR were measured. For subjective assessment, subjective noise, image contrast, bowel wall sharpness, mesenteric vessel clarity, and small structure visibility were scored by two radiologists blindly. Radiation dose was compared between the early- and late-enteric phases. Results: Radiation dose was reduced by 50% in the late-enteric phase [(6.31 ± 1.67) mSv] compared with the early-enteric phase [(3.01 ± 1.09) mSv]. For the 1.25 mm images, DLIR-M and DLIR-H significantly improved both objective and subjective image quality compared to those with ASIR-V40%. The low-dose 1.25 mm DLIR-H images had similar image noise, SNR, CNR values as the standard-dose 5 mm ASIR-V40% images, but significantly higher scores in image contrast [5(5–5), P < 0.05], bowel wall sharpness [5(5–5), P < 0.05], mesenteric vessel clarity [5(5–5), P < 0.05] and small structure visibility [5(5–5), P < 0.05]. Conclusions: DLIR significantly reduces image noise at the same slice thickness, but significantly improves spatial resolution and lesion conspicuity with thinner slice thickness in DECTE, compared to conventional ASIR-V40% 5 mm images, all while providing 50% radiation dose reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to address the issue of high energy consumption in the hydrocyclone separation process. By introducing a novel slotted overflow pipe structure and utilizing experimental and response surface optimization methods, the optimal parameters were determined. The research results indicate that the number of slots, slot angles, and positioning dimensions significantly influence the performance of the hydrocyclone separator. The optimal combination was found to be three layers of slots, a positioning dimension of 5.3 mm, and a slot angle of 58°. In a Φ100mm hydrocyclone separator, validated through multiple experiments, the separation efficiency increased by 0.26% and the pressure drop reduced by 24.88% under a flow rate of 900 ml/s. CFD simulation verified the reduction in internal flow field velocity and pressure drop due to the slotted structure. Therefore, this study provides an effective reference for designing efficient and low-energy hydrocyclone separators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A radial basis function neural network PID controller under fuzzy rules (FUZZY-RBF-PID) was designed for the electro-hydraulic position servo system under the influence of uncertain factors such as load mutation, and load stiffness change. Firstly, the mathematical model of the system is established, and the frequency domain and time domain analysis of the system are carried out. Secondly, based on the analysis results, a radial basis function (RBF) neural network PID controller is designed, and fuzzy rules are innovatively used to adjust the learning rate of PID parameters in the RBF neural network learning algorithm in real time. Thirdly, the simulation results show that under the action of the FUZZY-RBF-PID controller, the unit step response of the system has high steady-state accuracy, fast response speed, and under the condition of large load stiffness, the system can recover to the steady-state value faster after being disturbed. At the same time, when the input signal is the sinusoidal signal of 10 HZ, the system under the action of the FUZZY-RBF-PID controller has no obvious phase lag phenomenon, and the tracking error is minimal. The proposed method can effectively improve the comprehensive performance of the electro-hydraulic position servo system under the influence of uncertain factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of radiomics signatures obtained from dual-energy computed tomography enterography (DECTE) in the evaluation of mucosal healing (MH) in patients diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD). In this study, 106 CD patients with a total of 221 diseased intestinal segments (79 with MH and 142 non-MH) from two medical centers were included and randomly divided into training and testing cohorts at a ratio of 7:3. Radiomics features were extracted from the enteric phase iodine maps and 40-kev and 70-kev virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) of the diseased intestinal segments, as well as from mesenteric fat. Feature selection was performed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression. Radiomics models were subsequently established, and the accuracy of these models in identifying MH in CD was assessed by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The combined-iodine model formulated by integrating the intestinal and mesenteric fat radiomics features of iodine maps exhibited the most favorable performance in evaluating MH, with AUCs of 0.989 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.977–1.000) in the training cohort and 0.947 (95% CI 0.884–1.000) in the testing cohort. Patients categorized as high risk by the combined-iodine model displayed a greater probability of experiencing disease progression when contrasted with low-risk patients. The combined-iodine radiomics model, which is built upon iodine maps of diseased intestinal segments and mesenteric fat, has demonstrated promising performance in evaluating MH in CD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: As one of the major components of the tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) possess profound inhibitory activity against T cells and facilitate tumor escape from immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Converting this pro-tumorigenic toward the anti-tumorigenic phenotype thus is an important strategy for enhancing adaptive immunity against cancer. However, a plethora of mechanisms have been described for pro-tumorigenic differentiation in cancer, metabolic switches to program the anti-tumorigenic property of TAMs are elusive. Materials and methods: From an unbiased analysis of single-cell transcriptome data from multiple tumor models, we discovered that anti-tumorigenic TAMs uniquely express elevated levels of a specific fatty acid receptor, G-protein-coupled receptor 84 (GPR84). Genetic ablation of GPR84 in mice leads to impaired pro-inflammatory polarization of macrophages, while enhancing their anti-inflammatory phenotype. By contrast, GPR84 activation by its agonist, 6-n-octylaminouracil (6-OAU), potentiates pro-inflammatory phenotype via the enhanced STAT1 pathway. Moreover, 6-OAU treatment significantly retards tumor growth and increases the anti-tumor efficacy of anti-PD-1 therapy. Conclusion: Overall, we report a previously unappreciated fatty acid receptor, GPR84, that serves as an important metabolic sensing switch for orchestrating anti-tumorigenic macrophage polarization. Pharmacological agonists of GPR84 hold promise to reshape and reverse the immunosuppressive TME, and thereby restore responsiveness of cancer to overcome resistance to immune checkpoint blockade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore the feasibility of measuring glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using iodine maps in dual-energy spectral computed tomography urography (DEsCTU) and correlate them with the estimated GFR (eGFR) based on the equation of creatinine-cystatin C. Materials and methods: One hundred and twenty-eight patients referred for DEsCTU were retrospectively enrolled. The DEsCTU protocol included non-contrast, nephrographic, and excretory phase imaging. The CT-derived GFR was calculated using the above 3-phase iodine maps (CT-GFRiodine) and 120 kVp-like images (CT-GFR120kvp) separately. CT-GFRiodine and CT-GFR120kvp were compared with eGFR using paired t-test, correlation analysis, and Bland–Altman plots. The receiver operating characteristic curves were used to test the renal function diagnostic performance with CT-GFR120kvp and CT-GFRiodine. Results: The difference between eGFR (89.91 ± 18.45 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2) as reference standard and CT-GFRiodine (90.06 ± 20.89 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2) was not statistically significant, showing excellent correlation (r = 0.88, P < 0.001) and agreement (± 19.75 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2, P = 0.866). The correlation between eGFR and CT-GFR120kvp (66.13 ± 19.18 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2) was poor (r = 0.36, P < 0.001), and the agreement was poor (± 40.65 ml·min−1·1.73 m−2, P < 0.001). There were 62 patients with normal renal function and 66 patients with decreased renal function based on eGFR. The CT-GFRiodine had the largest area under the curve (AUC) for distinguishing between normal and decreased renal function (AUC = 0.951). Conclusion: The GFR can be calculated accurately using iodine maps in DEsCTU. DEsCTU could be a non-invasive and reliable one-stop-shop imaging technique for evaluating both the urinary tract morphology and renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geothermal resources, as abundant renewable and clean natural resources on Earth, have been utilized for geothermal power generation in 29 countries. Guangdong Province, as one of the most developed, economically vibrant, and attractive investment regions in China, has experienced rapid economic growth. However, further development is constrained by resource limitations and severe ecological environmental pressures. The issue of energy consumption and economic growth imbalance needs to be urgently addressed. Geothermal energy, as a clean and stable form of energy, can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decrease dependence on imported energy, and enhance national energy security. In this study, geological survey, geophysical survey, geochemical survey, remote sensing detection and drilling were carried out in the Shiba–Huangshadong area of Huizhou, and by analyzing the data on geothermal energy reserves in the study area, the available geothermal energy and its potentials in the study area were identified and its impact on the current energy consumption in Huizhou City was assessed, to validate the feasibility of the detailed application of the geothermal energy in the Greater Bay Area, which will enable the energy structure of Huizhou City optimize the energy structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the influence of adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V (ASIR-V) and deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) on CT radiomics feature robustness. A standardized phantom was scanned under single-energy CT (SECT) and dual-energy CT (DECT) modes at standard and low (20 and 10 mGy) dose levels. Images of SECT 120 kVp and corresponding DECT 120 kVp-like virtual monochromatic images were generated with filtered back-projection (FBP), ASIR-V at 40% (AV-40) and 100% (AV-100) blending levels, and DLIR algorithm at low (DLIR-L), medium (DLIR-M), and high (DLIR-H) strength levels. Ninety-four features were extracted via Pyradiomics. Reproducibility of features was calculated between standard and low dose levels, between reconstruction algorithms in reference to FBP images, and within scan mode, using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). The average percentage of features with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90 between the two dose levels was 21.28% and 20.75% in AV-40 images, and 39.90% and 35.11% in AV-100 images, respectively, and increased from 15.43 to 45.22% and from 15.43 to 44.15% with an increasing strength level of DLIR. The average percentage of features with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90 in reference to FBP images was 26.07% and 25.80% in AV-40 images, and 18.88% and 18.62% in AV-100 images, respectively, and decreased from 27.93 to 17.82% and from 27.66 to 17.29% with an increasing strength level of DLIR. DLIR and ASIR-V algorithms showed low reproducibility in reference to FBP images, while the high-strength DLIR algorithm provides an opportunity for minimizing radiomics variability due to dose reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Exploring the efficacy of a Radiological-Clinical (Rad-Clinical) model in predicting prognosis of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients after drug eluting beads transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) to optimize the targeted sequential treatment. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, we included 202 patients with unresectable HCC who received DEB-TACE treatment in 17 institutions from June 2018 to December 2022. Progression-free survival (PFS)-related radiomics features were computationally extracted from HCC patients to build a radiological signature (Rad-signature) model with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. A Rad-Clinical model for postoperative PFS was further constructed according to the Rad-signature and clinical variables by Cox regression analysis. It was presented as a nomogram and evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis. And further evaluate the application value of Rad-Clinical model in clinical stages and targeted sequential therapy of HCC. Results: Tumor size, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage, and radiomics score (Rad-score) were found to be independent risk factors for PFS after DEB-TACE treatment for unresectable HCC, with the Rad-Clinical model being the greatest predictor of PFS in these patients (hazard ratio: 2.08; 95% confidence interval: 1.56–2.78; P < 0.001) along with high 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months area under the curves of 0.857, 0.810, 0.843, and 0.838, respectively. In addition, compared to the radiomics and clinical nomograms, the Radiological-Clinical nomogram also significantly improved the classification accuracy for PFS outcomes, based on the net reclassification improvement (45.2%, 95% CI 0.260–0.632, p < 0.05) and integrated discrimination improvement (14.9%, 95% CI 0.064–0.281, p < 0.05). Based on this model, low-risk patients had higher PFS than high-risk patients in BCLC-B and C stages (P = 0.021). Targeted sequential therapy for patients with high and low-risk HCC in BCLC-B stage exhibited significant benefits (P = 0.018, P = 0.012), but patients with high-risk HCC in BCLC-C stage did not benefit much (P = 0.052). Conclusion: The Rad-Clinical model may be favorable for predicting PFS in patients with unresectable HCC treated with DEB-TACE and for identifying patients who may benefit from targeted sequential therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the performance of deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) and adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-Veo (ASIR-V) in improving image quality and diagnostic performance using virtual monochromatic spectral images in abdominal dual-energy computed tomography (DECT). Sixty-two patients [mean age ± standard deviation (SD): 56 years ± 13; 30 men] who underwent abdominal DECT were prospectively included in this study. The 70-keV DECT images in the portal phase were reconstructed at 5-mm and 1.25-mm slice thicknesses with 40% ASIR-V (ASIR-V40%) and at 1.25-mm slice with deep learning image reconstruction at medium (DLIR-M) and high (DLIR-H) levels and then compared. Computed tomography (CT) attenuation, SD values, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) were measured in the liver, spleen, erector spinae, and intramuscular fat. The lesions in each reconstruction group at 1.25-mm slice thickness were counted. The image quality and diagnostic confidence were subjectively evaluated by two radiologists using a 5-point scale. For the 1.25-mm images, DLIR-M and DLIR-H had lower SD, higher SNR and CNR, and better subjective image quality compared with ASIR-V40%; DLIR-H performed the best (all P values < 0.001). Furthermore, the 1.25-mm DLIR-H images had similar SD, SNR, and CNR values as the 5-mm ASIR-V40% images (all P > 0.05). Three image groups had similar lesion detection rates, but DLIR groups exhibited higher confidence in diagnosing lesions. Compared with ASIR-V40% at 70 keV, 70-keV DECT with DLIR-H further reduced image noise and improved image quality. Additionally, it improved diagnostic confidence while ensuring a consistent lesion detection rate of liver lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scanning vibration mirror system drives the scanning mirror fixed to it through the oscillation of the motor shaft, so as to control the reflected light to form a dynamic variable light path. The vibration mirror scanning system has higher controllability than the fixed optical path system and has been widely used.In this dissertation, after establishing the models of the core components of the scanning vibration mirror system, the mathematical model of the whole system is established.On this basis, simulation and theoretical analysis show that the system has some shortcomings, such as small bandwidth, low dynamic tracking accuracy, and the comprehensive dynamic performance of the system is easily affected by the input of external interference branches. A series correction controller and three closed-loop controller are designed for the above problems, respectively, and the control effects of the two controllers on the scanning vibration mirror system are studied through simulation experiments. By comparing the output response results of the system under the action of sinusoidal signals of different frequencies, it can be seen that the comprehensive effect of the three closed-loop controllers is better. Under the action of step signals, the overshoot of the three closed-loop correction controller correction system is 21.5% higher than that of the series controller correction system, the adjustment time is 82.7% less, and the steady-state error is significantly smaller. Therefore, it indicates that the three closed-loop correction system has good rapidity and steady-state accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop a radiomics nomogram based on computed tomography (CT) to estimate progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and assess its incremental value to the clinical risk factors for individual PFS estimation. Methods: 558 patients with pathologically confirmed SCLC were retrospectively recruited from three medical centers. A radiomics signature was generated by using the Pearson correlation analysis, univariate Cox analysis, and multivariate Cox analysis. Association of the radiomics signature with PFS was evaluated. A radiomics nomogram was developed based on the radiomics signature, then its calibration, discrimination, reclassification, and clinical usefulness were evaluated. Results: In total, 6 CT radiomics features were finally selected. The radiomics signature was significantly associated with PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 4.531, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.524–5.825, p < 0.001). Incorporating the radiomics signature into the radiomics nomogram resulted in better performance for the estimation of PFS (concordance index [C-index] 0.799) than with the clinical nomogram (C-index 0.629), as well as high 6 months and 12 months area under the curves of 0.885 and 0.846, respectively. Furthermore, the radiomics nomogram also significantly improved the classification accuracy for PFS outcomes, based on the net reclassification improvement (33.7%, 95% CI 0.216–0.609, p < 0.05) and integrated discrimination improvement (22.7%, 95% CI 0.168–0.278, p < 0.05). Decision curve analysis demonstrated that in terms of clinical usefulness, the radiomics nomogram outperformed the clinical nomogram. Conclusion: A CT-based radiomics nomogram exhibited a promising performance for predicting PFS in patients with SCLC, which could provide valuable information for individualized treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton is an irreplaceable economic crop currently domesticated in the human world for its extremely elongated fiber cells specialized in seed epidermis, which makes it of high research and application value. To date, numerous research on cotton has navigated various aspects, from multi-genome assembly, genome editing, mechanism of fiber development, metabolite biosynthesis, and analysis to genetic breeding. Genomic and 3D genomic studies reveal the origin of cotton species and the spatiotemporal asymmetric chromatin structure in fibers. Mature multiple genome editing systems, such as CRISPR/Cas9, Cas12 (Cpf1) and cytidine base editing (CBE), have been widely used in the study of candidate genes affecting fiber development. Based on this, the cotton fiber cell development network has been preliminarily drawn. Among them, the MYB-bHLH-WDR (MBW) transcription factor complex and IAA and BR signaling pathway regulate the initiation; various plant hormones, including ethylene, mediated regulatory network and membrane protein overlap fine-regulate elongation. Multistage transcription factors targeting CesA 4, 7, and 8 specifically dominate the whole process of secondary cell wall thickening. And fluorescently labeled cytoskeletal proteins can observe real-time dynamic changes in fiber development. Furthermore, research on the synthesis of cotton secondary metabolite gossypol, resistance to diseases and insect pests, plant architecture regulation, and seed oil utilization are all conducive to finding more high-quality breeding-related genes and subsequently facilitating the cultivation of better cotton varieties. This review summarizes the paramount research achievements in cotton molecular biology over the last few decades from the above aspects, thereby enabling us to conduct a status review on the current studies of cotton and provide strong theoretical support for the future direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed to evaluate effects of deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) on image quality in single-energy CT (SECT) and dual-energy CT (DECT), in reference to adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V (ASIR-V). The Gammex 464 phantom was scanned in SECT and DECT modes at three dose levels (5, 10, and 20 mGy). Raw data were reconstructed using six algorithms: filtered back-projection (FBP), ASIR-V at 40% (AV-40) and 100% (AV-100) strength, and DLIR at low (DLIR-L), medium (DLIR-M), and high strength (DLIR-H), to generate SECT 120kVp images and DECT 120kVp-like images. Objective image quality metrics were computed, including noise power spectrum (NPS), task transfer function (TTF), and detectability index (d′). Subjective image quality evaluation, including image noise, texture, sharpness, overall quality, and low- and high-contrast detectability, was performed by six readers. DLIR-H reduced overall noise magnitudes from FBP by 55.2% in a more balanced way of low and high frequency ranges comparing to AV-40, and improved the TTF values at 50% for acrylic inserts by average percentages of 18.32%. Comparing to SECT 20 mGy AV-40 images, the DECT 10 mGy DLIR-H images showed 20.90% and 7.75% improvement in d′ for the small-object high-contrast and large-object low-contrast tasks, respectively. Subjective evaluation showed higher image quality and better detectability. At 50% of the radiation dose level, DECT with DLIR-H yields a gain in objective detectability index compared to full-dose AV-40 SECT images used in daily practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate image quality, diagnostic acceptability, and lesion conspicuity in abdominal dual-energy CT (DECT) using deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) compared to those using adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V (Asir-V) at 50% blending (AV-50), and to identify potential factors impacting lesion conspicuity. Methods: The portal-venous phase scans in abdominal DECT of 47 participants with 84 lesions were prospectively included. The raw data were reconstructed to virtual monoenergetic image (VMI) at 50 keV using filtered back-projection (FBP), AV-50, and DLIR at low (DLIR-L), medium (DLIR-M), and high strength (DLIR-H). A noise power spectrum (NPS) was generated. CT number and standard deviation values of eight anatomical sites were measured. Signal-to-noise (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) values were calculated. Five radiologists assessed image quality in terms of image contrast, image noise, image sharpness, artificial sensation, and diagnostic acceptability, and evaluated the lesion conspicuity. Results: DLIR further reduced image noise (p < 0.001) compared to AV-50 while better preserved the average NPS frequency (p < 0.001). DLIR maintained CT number values (p > 0.99) and improved SNR and CNR values compared to AV-50 (p < 0.001). DLIR-H and DLIR-M showed higher ratings in all image quality analyses than AV-50 (p < 0.001). DLIR-H provided significantly better lesion conspicuity than AV-50 and DLIR-M regardless of lesion size, relative CT attenuation to surrounding tissue, or clinical purpose (p < 0.05). Conclusions: DLIR-H could be safely recommended for routine low-keV VMI reconstruction in daily contrast-enhanced abdominal DECT to improve image quality, diagnostic acceptability, and lesion conspicuity. Key Points: • DLIR is superior to AV-50 in noise reduction, with less shifts of the average spatial frequency of NPS towards low frequency, and larger improvements of NPS noise, noise peak, SNR, and CNR values. • DLIR-M and DLIR-H generate better image quality in terms of image contrast, noise, sharpness, artificial sensation, and diagnostic acceptability than AV-50, while DLIR-H provides better lesion conspicuity than AV-50 and DLIR-M. • DLIR-H could be safely recommended as a new standard for routine low-keV VMI reconstruction in contrast-enhanced abdominal DECT to provide better lesion conspicuity and better image quality than the standard AV-50. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic power of using vertebral hydroxyapatite concentration measurements in unenhanced and contrast-enhanced spectral CT for detecting and predicting the risk of osteoporosis-associated fractures. Methods: L1 of 210 patients (105 men, 105 women; mean age, 64 years, range, 19–103 years) who had undergone spectral CT examinations from January 1, 2018, to March 1, 2019, were retrospectively analyzed. Patient data for 3 years after spectral CT were retrieved from electronic medical record information systems to obtain the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. Baseline vertebral cancellous hydroxyapatite concentration from unenhanced and contrast-enhanced late-arterial-phase images was measured. The receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the diagnostic power for detecting and predicting the 3-year risk of osteoporosis-associated fractures using hydroxyapatite concentrations in both phases. Results: The hydroxyapatite concentrations in both phases had good diagnostic power to detect fractures at baseline. The sensitivity and specificity for predicting one or more osteoporosis-associated fractures within 3 years after spectral CT were 76.80% and 93.10%, respectively, using the cutoff of 74.79 mg/cm3 in vertebral hydroxyapatite concentration in the unenhanced CT phase, and 82.87% and 82.76%, respectively, using the cutoff of 84.65 mg/cm3 in the late-arterial phase. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the diagnosis between unenhanced and enhanced CT-derived hydroxyapatite concentrations (p = 0.360). Conclusions: Both unenhanced and enhanced spectral CT-derived hydroxyapatite concentrations can accurately detect and predict future risk of osteoporosis-associated fractures. The hydroxyapatite concentration assessed in the late-arterial phase may have a similar diagnostic efficacy to that in the unenhanced phase. Key Points: • A cutoff of 74.79 mg/cm3 of vertebral hydroxyapatite concentration in the unenhanced CT scans had 76.80% sensitivity and 93.10% specificity to predict one or more osteoporosis-associated fractures within 3 years after spectral CT examinations. • A cutoff of 84.65 mg/cm3 of vertebral hydroxyapatite concentration in the late-arterial-enhanced CT scans had 82.87% sensitivity and 82.76% specificity to predict one or more osteoporosis-associated fractures within 3 years after spectral CT examinations. • The hydroxyapatite concentration assessed in the late-arterial phase may have a similar diagnostic efficacy to that in the unenhanced phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate robustness of dual-energy CT (DECT) radiomics features of virtual unenhanced (VUE) image and virtual monoenergetic image (VMI) among different imaging platforms. Methods: A phantom with sixteen clinical-relevant densities was scanned on ten DECT platforms with comparable scan parameters. Ninety-four radiomic features were extracted via Pyradiomics from VUE images and VMIs at energy level of 70 keV (VMI70keV). Test–retest repeatability was assessed by Bland–Altman analysis. Inter-platform reproducibility of VUE images and VMI70keV was evaluated by coefficient of variation (CV) and quartile coefficient of dispersion (QCD) among platforms, and by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) between platform pairs. The correlation between variability of CT number radiomics reproducibility was estimated. Results: 92.02% and 92.87% of features were repeatable between scan–rescans for VUE images and VMI70keV, respectively. Among platforms, 11.30% and 28.39% features of VUE images, and 15.16% and 28.99% features of VMI70keV were with CV < 10% and QCD < 10%. The average percentages of radiomics features with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90 between platform pairs were 10.00% and 9.86% in VUE images and 11.23% and 11.23% in VMI70keV. The CT number inter-platform reproducibility using CV and QCD showed negative correlations with percentage of the first-order radiomics features with CV < 10% and QCD < 10%, in both VUE images and VMI70keV (r2 0.3870–0.6178, all p < 0.001). Conclusions: The majority of DECT radiomics features were non-reproducible. The differences in CT number were considered as an indicator of inter-platform DECT radiomics variation. Critical relevance statement: The majority of radiomics features extracted from the VUE images and the VMI70keV were non-reproducible among platforms, while synchronizing energy levels of VMI to reduce the CT number value variability may be a potential way to mitigate radiomics instability. Key points: The repeatability of DECT radiomics features was high between scan–rescans. The inter-reproducibility of radiomics features in VUE images and VMI70keV was low. The differences in DECT techniques obviously altered the radiomics features. Synchronizing energy levels of VMI can potentially improve radiomics robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the sticking phenomenon between the valve core and the valve sleeve when the valve core moves, and to solve the problem that the torque required to drive the valve core to rotate is large, the fluid–solid coupling simulation analysis of the valve core is carried out in this study, and then the valve core structure of the valve core is improved and its parameters are optimized based on the bird colony algorithm. The combination structure of the valve sleeve and valve core is studied, and the fluid–solid coupling model is established by Ansys WorkBench, and the static structure simulation analysis of valve sleeve and valve core before and after structural improvement and parameter optimization is performed. The mathematical models of triangular buffer tank, U-shaped buffer tank and combined buffer tank are established, and the structural parameters of the combined buffer tank are optimized by bird swarm optimization. The results demonstrate the triangular buffer tank has good depressurization effect but great impact, the pressure of the U-shaped buffer tank is stable and gentle but the depressurization effect is not ideal, while the combined buffer tank has obvious depressurization effect and good stability. At the same time, the optimal structural parameters of the combined buffer tank are cut-in angle of 72, plane angle of 60 and depth of 1.65 mm. The excellent structure and parameters of the combined buffer groove are obtained, so that the pressure buffer of the regulating valve at the key position of the valve port achieves the best effect, and an effective solution is provided for solving the sticking problem of the valve core of the regulating valve when working. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Mucosal healing (MH) is an important goal in the treatment of patients with Crohn's disease (CD). Noninvasive assessment of MH with normalized iodine concentration (NIC) is unknown. Methods: In this retrospective study, 94 patients with diagnosed CD underwent endoscopy and dual-energy CT enterography (DECTE) at the post-infliximab treatment review. Two radiologists reviewed DECTE images by consensus for assessing diseased bowel segments of the colon or terminal ileum, and the NIC was measured. Patients were divided into transmural healing (TH), MH and non-MH groups. The diagnostic performance of the MH and non-MH groups with clinical factors and NIC was assessed utilizing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Of the 94 patients included in our study, 8 patients achieved TH, 34 patients achieved MH, and 52 patients did not achieve MH at the post-IFX treatment review. The area under the ROC curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values were 0.929 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.883–0.967), 0.853, 0.827, and 0.837, respectively, for differentiating MHs from non-MHs, and the optimal NIC threshold was 0.448. The AUC of the combined model for distinguishing MHs from non-MHs in CD patients, which was based on the NIC and calprotectin, was 0.964 (95% CI 0.935–0.987). Conclusions: The normalized iodine concentration measurement in DECTE has good performance in assessment MH in patients with CD. Iodine concentration from DECTE can be used as a radiologic marker for MH. Key points: IFX treatment has 45% efficiency for achieving MH in our study. The AUC of the NIC model for assessment of MH was 0.929. NIC from DECTE can be used as a radiologic marker for MH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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[RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 in a mixture of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-400) and water is shown to be a highly efficient catalyst for the annulation of N-methoxybenzamides with alkynes. The reaction proceeded smoothly at 60 ºC with MesCO2K as a cocatalytic additive under external oxidant-free conditions, delivering a variety of substituted isoquinolones in mostly good to excellent yields. The isolation of the crude products can be easily performed by extraction with diethyl ether and more importantly, [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2/PEG-400/H2O system could be facilely recycled and reused more than six times without any apparent loss of catalytic efficiency. Ruthenium-catalyzed annulation of N-methoxybenzamides with alkynes leading to isoquinolones by using [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2/PEG-400/H2O as a highly efficient and recyclable catalytic system is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate image quality and diagnostic confidence improvement using a thin slice and a deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) in contrast-enhanced abdominal CT. Methods: Forty patients with hepatic lesions in enhanced abdominal CT were retrospectively analyzed. Images in the portal phase were reconstructed at 5 mm and 1.25 mm slice thickness using the 50% adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR-V) (ASIR-V50%) and at 1.25 mm using DLIR at medium (DLIR-M) and high (DLIR-H) settings. CT number and standard deviation of the hepatic parenchyma, spleen, portal vein, and subcutaneous fat were measured, and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was calculated. Edge-rise-slope (ERS) was measured on the portal vein to reflect spatial resolution and the CT number skewness on liver parenchyma was calculated to reflect image texture. Two radiologists blindly assessed the overall image quality including subjective noise, image contrast, visibility of small structures using a 5-point scale, and object sharpness and lesion contour using a 4-point scale. Results: For the 1.25-mm images, DLIR significantly reduced image noise, improved CNR and overall subjective image quality compared to ASIR-V50%. Compared to the 5-mm ASIR-V50% images, DLIR images had significantly higher scores in the visibility and contour for small structures and lesions; as well as significantly higher ERS and lower CT number skewness. At a quarter of the signal strength, the 1.25-mm DLIR-H images had a similar subjective noise score as the 5-mm ASIR-V50% images. Conclusion: DLIR significantly reduces image noise and maintains a more natural image texture; image spatial resolution and diagnostic confidence can be improved using thin slice images and DLIR in abdominal CT. Key Points: • DLIR further reduces image noise compared with ASIR-V while maintaining favorable image texture. • In abdominal CT, thinner slice images improve image spatial resolution and small object visualization but suffer from higher image noise. • Thinner slice images combined with DLIR in abdominal CT significantly suppress image noise for detecting low-density lesions while significantly improving image spatial resolution and overall image quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare image quality between a deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) algorithm and conventional iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms in dual-energy CT (DECT) and to assess the impact of these algorithms on radiomics robustness. Methods: A phantom with clinical-relevant densities was imaged on seven DECT scanners with the same voxel size using typical abdominal-pelvis examination protocols. On one DECT scanner, raw data were reconstructed using both conventional IR (adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V, ASIR-V) and DLIR. Nine sets of corresponding images were generated on other six DECT scanners using scanner-equipped conventional IR. Regions of interest were delineated through rigid registrations. Image quality was compared. Pyradiomics platform was used for radiomics feature extraction. Test-retest repeatability was assessed by Bland-Altman analysis for repeated scans. Inter-reconstruction algorithm reproducibility between conventional IR and DLIR was tested by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). Inter-scanner reproducibility was evaluated by coefficient of variation (CV) and quartile coefficient of dispersion (QCD). Robust features were identified. Results: DLIR significantly improved image quality. Ninety-four radiomics features were extracted and nine features were considered as robust. 93.87% features were repeatable between repeated scans. ASIR-V images showed higher reproducibility to other conventional IR than DLIR (ICC mean, 0.603 vs 0.558, p = 0.001; CCC mean, 0.554 vs 0.510, p = 0.004). 7.45% and 26.83% features were reproducible among scanners evaluated by CV and QCD, respectively. Conclusions: DLIR improves quality of DECT images but may alter radiomics features compared to conventional IR. Nine robust DECT radiomics features were identified. Key Points: • DLIR improves DECT image quality in terms of signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio compared with ASIR-V and showed the highest noise reduction rate and lowest peak frequency shift. • Most of radiomics features are repeatable between repeated DECT scans, while inter-reconstruction algorithm reproducibility between conventional IR and DLIR, and inter-scanner reproducibility, are low. • Although DLIR may alter radiomics features compared to IR algorithms, nine radiomics features survived repeatability and reproducibility analysis among DECT scanners and reconstruction algorithms, which allows further validation and clinical-relevant analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly efficient heterogeneous copper(I)-catalyzed decarboxylative C–C coupling of α-amino acids with various carbon nucleophiles has been developed that proceeds smoothly in toluene at 110 °C by using an 2-aminoethylamino-modified SBA-15-supported copper(I) bromide complex as the catalyst and di-tert-butyl peroxide as the oxidant and provides a novel and practical approach for the synthesis of diverse propargylamines, indolyl pyrrolidines and piperidines, and β-nitroamines in good yields. The new heterogeneous copper(I) catalyst can be facilely prepared from commercially easily available and inexpensive reagents via a simple procedure, and exhibits a slightly higher catalytic activity than homogeneous CuBr/TMEDA system and can be recycled at least 8 times without any apparent loss of catalytic efficiency. A recyclable copper(I)-catalyzed decarboxylative C–C coupling of α-amino acids with various carbon nucleophiles has been developed by using an SBA-15-supported copper(I) bromide complex as the catalyst, providing a novel and practical approach for the synthesis of diverse propargylamines, indolyl pyrrolidines and piperidines, and β-nitroamines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of opportunistic screening for osteoporosis in postmenopausal females using the dual-energy CT(DECT)-derived hydroxyapatite (HAP) concentration and CT value of L1-vertebra. 239 consecutive postmenopausal female patients were enrolled and underwent both chest DECT and Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). According to the T-score of the 1st lumbar vertebra on DXA, patients were divided into the osteoporosis group (T ≤ − 2.5, n = 112) and non-osteoporosis group (T > − 2.5, n = 127). The HAP values of the 1st lumbar vertebra were measured from the coronal-view HAP(Fat)-based material decomposition(MD) images, and CT values were measured on the 75 keV monochromatic image. The cutoff values of using HAP and CT value for diagnosing osteoporosis were obtained by drawing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Both HAP and CT value of the 1st lumbar vertebra had moderate-high correlation with bone-mineral-density measurement on DXA (HAP, r = 0.614; CT value, r = 0.625; all p < 0.01). The area-under-the-curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for diagnosing osteoporosis was 0.754, 0.714, 0.693, 0.68 and 0.752 using HAP (cutoff value: 142.05 mg/cm3) and 0.766, 0.741, 0.7, 0.685 and 0.754 using CT value (cutoff value: 132HU), respectively. HAP measurements on HAP(Fat)-based MD images in DECT could provide reasonably accurate BMD quantification for diagnosing osteoporosis in postmenopausal females. DECT prescribed for lung cancer screening could also provide opportunistic screening for osteoporosis, extending the clinical application of DECT without additional radiation to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Mucosal healing (MH) is currently the gold standard in Crohn's disease (CD) management. Noninvasive assessment of MH in CD patients is increasingly a concern of clinicians.Methods: This retrospective study included 106 patients with confirmed CD who were divided into a training cohort (n = 73) and a testing cohort (n = 33). Patient demographics were evaluated to establish a clinical model. Radiomics features were extracted from computed tomography enterography (CTE) images. A radiomics signature was constructed, and a radiomics score (Rad-score) was calculated by using the radiomics signature-based formula. A clinical radiomics nomogram was then built by incorporating the Rad-score and significant clinical features. The diagnostic performance of the three models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.Results: Of the 106 patients with CD, 37 exhibited MH after 26 weeks of infliximab (IFX) treatment. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the clinical radiomics nomogram for distinguishing MH from non-MH, which was based on the disease duration and Rad-score, was 0.880 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.809-0.943) in the training cohort and 0.877 (95% CI: 0.745-0.983) in the testing cohort. Decision curve analysis (DCA) confirmed the clinical utility of the clinical radiomics nomogram.Conclusions: This is a preliminary study suggesting that this CTE-based radiomics model has potential value for predicting MH in CD patients. A nomogram constructed by combining radiomics signatures and clinical features can help clinicians select appropriate therapeutic strategies for CD patients.Key Points: • The disease duration (odds ratio (OR) = 0.969, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.943-0.995, p = 0.021) was an independent predictor of MH in the clinical model. • The AUC of the radiomics model constructed by the five radiomics features was 0.846 (95% CI: 0.759-0.921) in the training cohort and 0.817 (95% CI: 0.665-0.945) in the testing cohort for differentiating MH from non-MH. • The AUC of the clinical radiomics nomogram was 0.880 (95% CI: 0.809-0.943) in the training cohort and 0.877 (95% CI: 0.745-0.983) in the testing cohort for distinguishing MH from non-MH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epoxy resin has been widely used as the main insulation in power electronic transformers, which, however, inevitably suffer from the detrimental effect of electrical trees. In this paper, bipolar square-wave voltage is applied to the epoxy resin to initiate electrical trees, with the effect of waveform parameters and ambient temperature on electrical tree characteristics explored. All trees observed demonstrate branch-like structures. The electrical tree length, width, extension factor, fractal dimension, and accumulated damage increase with voltage amplitude and frequency, while breakdown time decreases. In addition, the results of gas chromatography show that thermal decomposing occurred during the breakdown of the epoxy resin, inducing small-molecule gases including acetylene, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide. This indicates that the initiation voltage of the electrical tree at 500 Hz decreases from 8 kV to 6 kV when the temperature is elevated from 20°C to 80°C. The results of surface potential decay testing shows that the trap energy depth and the charge mobility are increased at higher temperatures, which also leads to an easier charge injection and results in an enhanced electrical tree evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The C2 domain family proteins in plants has been recently shown to be involved in the response to abiotic stress such as salt and drought stress. However, less information on C2 domain family members has been reported in Sorghum bicolor (L.), which is a tolerant cereal crop. To elaborate the mechanism of C2 domain family members in response to abiotic stress, bioinformatic methods were used to analyze this family. The results indicated that 69 C2 domain genes belonging to 5 different groups were first identified within the sorghum genome, and each group possessed various gene structures and conserved functional domains. Second, those C2 family genes were localized on 10 chromosomes 3 tandem repeat genes and 1 pair of repeat gene fragments were detected. The family members further presented a variety of stress responsive cis-elements. Third, in addition to being the major integral component of the membrane, sorghum C2 domain family proteins mainly played roles in response to abiotic and biotic stress with their organic transport and catalytic activity by specific location in the cell on the basis of gene ontology analysis. C2 family genes were differentially expressed in root, shoot or leaf, and shown different expression profiling after saline–alkali stress, which indicated that C2 family members played an important role in response to saline–alkali stress based on the transcription profiles of RNA-seq data and expression analysis by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Besides, most C2 family members were mainly located in cytoplasmi and nucleus. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed three modules (turquoise, dark magenta and pink) that were associated with stress resistance, respectively. Therefore, the present research provides comprehensive information for further analysis of the molecular function of C2 domain family genes in sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnitude asymmetry between positive and negative extreme anomalies in gross primary productivity (GPP) and the underlying mechanism have been investigated based on daily records from the data-driven and in situ datasets. Distinct magnitude asymmetries of daily GPP extreme anomalies (DGEAs) have been identified between forested and non-forested areas. Forested areas are dominated by negative asymmetries, manifesting as the magnitude of negative DGEAs significantly larger than that of their positive counterparts; while non-forested areas are dominated by positive asymmetries. These distinct asymmetric features are due to the different climatic constraints between forests and non-forests. We found that solar radiation is the dominant climatic controller of the daily variation in GPP of forests. Due to the existence of a light saturation point, vegetation productivity is less sensitive to extremely high values of solar radiation than it is to the extremely low, thus leading to the negative asymmetries. For the non-forested areas, however, the daily variation in GPP depends on the preceding 3‒6-day soil moisture conditions. Heavy precipitation is more effective at causing strong and persistent soil moisture anomalies, as soil water can penetrate to deeper soil layers. Therefore, strong positive asymmetry of precipitation anomalies results in the positive asymmetry of soil moisture anomalies and thus leads to the positive asymmetry of DGEAs. Due to the significant asymmetry in the DGEAs, the cumulative effect of DGEAs further rectifies the interannual variability of annual GPP, implying the importance of asymmetry in the DGEAs to changes of terrestrial carbon cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate inter- and intra- scan mode and scanner repeatability and reproducibility of radiomics features within and between single-energy CT (SECT) and dual-energy CT (DECT). Methods: A standardized phantom with sixteen rods of clinical-relevant densities was scanned on seven DECT-capable scanners and three SECT-only scanners. The acquisition parameters were selected to present typical abdomen-pelvic examinations with the same voxel size. Images of SECT at 120 kVp and corresponding 120 kVp-like virtual monochromatic images (VMIs) in DECT which were generated according to scanners were analyzed. Regions of interest were drawn with rigid registrations to avoid variations due to segmentation. Radiomics features were extracted via Pyradiomics platform. Test-retest repeatability was evaluated by Bland-Altman analysis for repeated scans. Intra-scanner reproducibility for different scan modes was tested by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). Inter-scanner reproducibility among different scanners for same scan mode was assessed by coefficient of variation (CV) and quartile coefficient of dispersion (QCD). Results: The test-retest analysis presented that 92.91% and 87.02% of the 94 assessed features were repeatable for SECT 120kVp and DECT 120 kVp-like VMIs, respectively. The intra-scanner analysis for SECT 120kVp vs DECT 120 kVp-like VMIs demonstrated that 10.76% and 10.28% of features were with ICC > 0.90 and CCC > 0.90, respectively. The inter-scanner analysis showed that 17.09% and 27.73% of features for SECT 120kVp were with CV < 10% and QCD < 10%, and 15.16% and 32.78% for DECT 120 kVp-like VMIs, respectively. Conclusions: The majority of radiomics features were non-reproducible within and between SECT and DECT. Key Points: • Although the test-retest analysis showed high repeatability for radiomics features, the overall reproducibility of radiomics features within and between SECT and DECT was low. • Only about one-tenth of radiomics features extracted from SECT images and corresponding DECT images did match each other, even their average photon energy levels were considered alike, indicating that the scan mode potentially altered the radiomics features. • Less than one-fifth of radiomics features were reproducible among multiple SECT and DECT scanners, regardless of their fixed acquisition and reconstruction parameters, suggesting the necessity of scanning protocol adjustment and post-scan harmonization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The corpus cavernosum is the most important structure for penile erection, and its dysfunction causes many physiological and psychological problems. However, its cellular heterogeneity and signalling networks at the molecular level are poorly understood because of limited access to samples. Here, we profile 64,993 human cavernosal single-cell transcriptomes from three males with normal erection and five organic erectile dysfunction patients. Cell communication analysis reveals that cavernosal fibroblasts are central to the paracrine signalling network and regulate microenvironmental homeostasis. Combining with immunohistochemical staining, we reveal the cellular heterogeneity and describe a detailed spatial distribution map for each fibroblast, smooth muscle and endothelial subcluster in the corpus cavernosum. Furthermore, comparative analysis and related functional experiments identify candidate regulatory signalling pathways in the pathological process. Our study provides an insight into the human corpus cavernosum microenvironment and a reference for potential erectile dysfunction therapies. The corpus cavernosum is the most important structure for penile erection, and its dysfunction causes physiological and psychological problems. Here the authors perform single-cell RNA-sequencing on corpus cavernosum samples from males with normal erection and erectile dysfunction patients, providing insights into this pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a survey of soil fungal diversity in a rocky desertification area in Yunnan Province, China, a new dematiaceous hyphomycete, Cordana yunnanensis was identified. Morphologically, this species is characterized by macronematous, mononematous conidiophores with discrete, polyblastic conidiogenous cells arranged in a whorl at the apices. Phylogenetic analysis of the combined sequences of the internal transcribed spacer and the large nuclear ribosomal RNA subunit confirmed the phylogenetic position of C. yunnanensis within the genus Cordana, in Cordanaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow control valve is the basic component of the hydraulic system, and its performance plays a vital role in the working characteristics of the hydraulic system. In this paper, based on the unique structure of a micro-flow regulating valve, in order to prevent the structure between the valve core and the valve sleeve from deforming under the action of throttling temperature rise and flow pressure, the interaction between the valve core and the valve body at the throttling notch will cause flow fluctuation. Establish a three-dimensional model and a flow field model of the micro-control valve. Based on CFD, fluid-heat-solid coupling simulation is used to analyze the deformation of the valve core sleeve caused by flow rate, pressure and throttling temperature rise. The variation and distribution law of the flow field is obtained when the spool works at different angles and pressure differences. It provides a theoretical reference for the structural optimization design and improvement of this type of flow control valve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel aromatic polyamides containing both sulfone linkages and cardo groups were synthesized via a heterogeneous palladium-catalyzed carbonylation and condensation reaction of aromatic diiodides bearing ether sulfone linkages, carbon monoxide, and aromatic diamines with cardo groups. Polycondensation reaction proceeded smoothly under 1 atm of CO at 120 °C in N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) by using a bidentate phosphine ligand-modified magnetic nanoparticles-anchored palladium complex [2P-Fe3O4@SiO2-PdCl2] as a recyclable catalyst with 1,8-diazabicycle[5,4,0]-7-undecene (DBU) as a base, furnishing cardo poly(ether sulfone amide)s with inherent viscosities between 0.70 and 0.77 dL/g. The resulting polyamides could be readily dissolved in polar aprotic organic solvents and even dissolved in less polar pyridine and tetrahydrofuran at room temperature and could be easily converted into flexible, transparent, and tough films via casting from their solutions in DMAc. These polymers exhibited excellent thermal stability with the glass transition temperatures between 241 and 283 °C and the temperatures at 5% weight loss ranging from 438 to 475 °C in an atmosphere of nitrogen. The polyamide films displayed good mechanical behavior with tensile strengths of 78.8–84.4 MPa, tensile moduli of 2.08–2.57 GPa, and elongations at breakage of 10.2–12.5%, and optically high transparency with cut-off wavelengths in the range of 338–368 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) in children has already attracted more attention. CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) has been the preferred method for diagnosing PE, but it has some limitations, especially for children. Dual-energy spectral CT has been used in diagnosing PE in adults. Purpose: To evaluate the application of dual-energy spectral CT in diagnosing PE in children with MPP. Materials and methods: Eighty-three children with MPP and highly suspected PE, underwent CTPA with spectral imaging mode, 25 children were diagnosis with PE. Noise, clot-to-artery contrast-to-noise ratio, image quality and diagnosis confidence were calculated and assessed on nine monochromatic image sets (40 to 80 keV). CTPA images were observed for the presence, localization and embolic degrees of PE. Clots were divided into intra- and extra-consolidation clots. For extra-consolidation clots, iodine concentration (IC) of perfusion defects and normal lung, perfusion defects of four children before and after the treatment were measured and compared. For intra-consolidation clots, IC of consolidation areas with clots and consolidation areas without clot were measured and compared. Results: The optimal energy level for detecting PE in children was 55 keV. 116 clots (29 extra-consolidations) were found, IC of defect regions was 0.69 ± 0.28 mg/mL (extra-consolidations) and 0.90 ± 0.23 mg/mL (intra-consolidations), both significantly lower than the 2.76 ± 0.45 mg/mL in normal lungs and 10.25 ± 1.76 mg/mL in consolidations without clots (P < 0.001). Significant difference was found in the presence or absence of perfusion defects between occlusive clots and nonocclusive clots (P < 0.001). IC of the perfusion defects significantly increased after treatment (P < 0.001). Conclusions: In dual-energy spectral CTPA, 55 keV images optimize PE detection for children, and MD images quantify pulmonary blood flow of PE, and may help to detect small clots and quantify embolic degrees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the image quality and diagnostic performance for obstructive coronary artery disease of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) during TAVI planning CT using a whole-heart coverage CT scanner. Methods: Eighty-eight consecutive TAVI candidates with AF (50 men, 74 ± 6 years) who underwent both TAVI planning CT and invasive coronary catheter angiography (ICA) were retrospectively analyzed. With ICA results as the reference standard, the accuracy of TAVI planning CT for lesion detection on a per-vessel and per-patient level was calculated. Meanwhile, image quality, contrast volume, and effective dose (ED) were evaluated. A 5-point visual scale (1–5) was used to assess the subjective image quality. The CT value and signal-to-noise ratio were measured for the left main coronary artery (LM), left anterior descending (LAD), left circumflex (LCX), and right coronary arteries (RCA). Results: The ED for CCTA was 3.25 ± 1.39 mSv and contrast volume was 58.14 ± 12.34 mL. A total of 1371 (1371/1408 = 97.4%) segments with diameter > 1.5 mm were analyzed. For the subjective evaluation, the mean score was 3.99 ± 0.96 for overall image quality. The mean CT values in LM, RCA, LCX, and LAD were all above 400 HU. For the detection of > 50% stenosis, TAVI planning CT provided on the per-vessel and per-patient basis 97.06% and 100% in sensitivity, 96.23% and 89.06% in specificity, 99.7% and 100% in negative predictive value, and 73.3% and 77.4% in positive predictive value, respectively. Conclusion: TAVI planning CT with whole-heart coverage demonstrates good CCTA image quality and a high sensitivity and NPV in excluding obstructive CAD in TAVI candidates with AF. Key Points: • Transcatheter aortic valve implantation planning (TAVI) CT with whole-heart coverage enables good image quality of CCTA in TAVI candidates with atrial fibrillation. • Obstructive coronary artery disease may be excluded with high accuracy in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) candidates with atrial fibrillation with the usage of whole-heart coverage TAVI planning CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between genes harboring single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is vital to better understand underlying contributions to the etiology of breast cancer. Much attention has been paid to epistasis between nuclear genes or mutations in the mitochondrial genome. However, there is limited understanding about the epistatic effects of genetic variants in the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes jointly on breast cancer. We tested the interaction of germline SNPs in the mitochondrial (mtSNPs) and nuclear (nuSNPs) genomes of female breast cancer patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) for association with morphological features extracted from hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained pathology images. We identified 115 significant (q-value < 0.05) mito-nuclear interactions that increased nuclei size by as much as 12%. One interaction between nuSNP rs17320521 in an intron of the WSC Domain Containing 2 (WSCD2) gene and mtSNP rs869096886, a synonymous variant mapped to the mitochondrially-encoded NADH dehydrogenase 4 (MT-ND4) gene, was confirmed in an independent breast cancer data set from the Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC). None of the 10 mito-nuclear interactions identified from non-diseased female breast tissues from the Genotype-Expression (GTEx) project resulted in an increase in nuclei size. Comparisons of gene expression data from the TCGA breast cancer patients with the genotype homozygous for the minor alleles of the SNPs in WSCD2 and MT-ND4 versus the other genotypes revealed core transcriptional regulator interactions and an association with insulin. Finally, a Cox proportional hazards ratio = 1.7 (C.I. 0.98–2.9, p-value = 0.042) and Kaplan–Meier plot suggest that the TCGA female breast cancer patients with low gene expression of WSCD2 coupled with large nuclei have an increased risk of mortality. The intergenomic dependency between the two variants may constitute an inherent susceptibility of a more severe form of breast cancer and points to genetic targets for further investigation of additional determinants of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) fiber is the most important resource of natural and renewable fiber for the textile industry. However, the understanding of genetic components and their genome-wide interactions controlling fiber quality remains fragmentary. Here, we sequenced a multiple-parent advanced-generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population, consisting of 550 individuals created by inter-crossing 11 founders, and established a mosaic genome map through tracing the origin of haplotypes that share identity-by-descent (IBD). We performed two complementary GWAS methods—SNP-based GWAS (sGWAS) and IBD-based haplotype GWAS (hGWAS). A total of 25 sQTLs and 14 hQTLs related to cotton fiber quality were identified, of which 26 were novel QTLs. Two major QTLs detected by both GWAS methods were responsible for fiber strength and length. The gene Ghir_D11G020400 (GhZF14) encoding the MATE efflux family protein was identified as a novel candidate gene for fiber length. Beyond the additive QTLs, we detected prevalent epistatic interactions that contributed to the genetics of fiber quality, pinpointing another layer for trait variance. This study provides new targets for future molecular design breeding of superior fiber quality. Wang and colleagues use a complementary GWAS approach to identify genetic loci associated with cotton fiber quality. Using a multiparent advanced-generation inter-cross population, 26 new QTLs related to cotton fiber quality were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the use of reverse attenuation gradient sign (RAGS) in CT angiography (CTA) to differentiate total from subtotal occlusion in lower extremities which poses different challenges for the procedure and carries different prognoses. Methods: Eighty patients with 91 lesions in the lower extremities were divided into total occlusion (TO) group and subtotal occlusion (SO) group confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. The CT numbers of vascular lumen at the end of lesion (proximal, P) and at the first entrance (distal, D) of the lateral branch were measured and their difference (CT(PD) = CT(P) − CT(D)) of each lesion was calculated. The CT number gradient (G(DP) = 2 * CT(PD)/[CT(P) + CT(D)]) was calculated by dividing the CT number difference by the average CT number of the two points. The existence of RAGS where the CT number at the distal point is higher than that at the proximal point (CT(PD) and G(PD) < 0) was determined and the diagnostic efficacy of using RAGS in CTA for differentiating total from subtotal occlusive lesions in lower extremities was calculated. Results: The SO group had higher CT numbers than the TO group (p < 0.001). More importantly, the SO group had positive CT number gradient (G(PD) > 0), while the gradient was negative (G(PD) < 0) in the TO group. The specificity and sensitivity of using RAGS (G(PD) < 0) in images for diagnosing TO of lower extremity were 97.6% and 92.0%, respectively, and 87.8% and 88.0% using the standard CTA images. Conclusion: The use of RAGS in CTA images has high diagnostic accuracy to differentiate TO from SO in lower extremities. Key Points: • Total occlusions often exhibit higher CT number at distal point than at proximal point to the occlusion. • The reverse attenuation gradient sign (RAGS) may be determined using the CT number measurements between the proximal and distal points after occlusion. • RAGS can be used to improve the diagnostic efficiency in CTA to differentiate between total and subtotal occlusions of lower extremity arteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chest CT angiography (CTA) is a convenient clinical examination for children with an increasing need to reduce both radiation and contrast medium doses. Iterative Reconstruction algorithms are often used to reduce image noise but encounter limitations under low radiation dose and conventional 100 kVp tube voltage may not provide adequate enhancement under low contrast dose. Purpose: To evaluate the performance of a deep learning image reconstruction (DLIR) algorithm in conjunction with lower tube voltage in chest CTA in children under reduced radiation and contrast medium (CM) dose. Materials and methods: 46 Children (age 5.9 ± 4.2 years) in the study group underwent chest CTA with 70 kVp and CM dose of 0.8–1.2 ml/kg. Images were reconstructed at 0.625 mm using a high setting DLIR (DLIR-H). The control group consisted of 46 age-matching children scanned with 100 kVp, CM dose of 1.3–1.8 ml/kg and images reconstructed with 50% and 100% adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-V. Two radiologists evaluated images subjectively for overall image noise, vessel contrast and vessel margin clarity separately on a 5-point scale (5, excellent and 1, not acceptable). CT value and image noise of aorta and erector spinae muscle were measured. Results: Compared to the control group, the study group reduced the dose-length-product by 11.2% (p = 0.01) and CM dose by 24% (p < 0.001), improved the enhancement in aorta (416.5 ± 113.1HU vs. 342.0 ± 57.6HU, p < 0.001) and reduced noise (15.1 ± 3.5HU vs. 18.6 ± 4.4HU, p < 0.001). The DLIR-H images provided acceptable scores on all 3 aspects of the qualitative evaluation. Conclusion: "Double low" chest CTA in children using 70 kVp and DLIR provides high image quality with reduced noise and improved vessel enhancement for diagnosis while further reduces radiation and CM dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze and compare the imaging workflow, radiation dose, and image quality for COVID-19 patients examined using either the conventional manual positioning (MP) method or an AI-based automatic positioning (AP) method. Materials and methods: One hundred twenty-seven adult COVID-19 patients underwent chest CT scans on a CT scanner using the same scan protocol except with the manual positioning (MP group) for the initial scan and an AI-based automatic positioning method (AP group) for the follow-up scan. Radiation dose, patient positioning time, and off-center distance of the two groups were recorded and compared. Image noise and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were assessed by three experienced radiologists and were compared between the two groups. Results: The AP operation was successful for all patients in the AP group and reduced the total positioning time by 28% compared with the MP group. Compared with the MP group, the AP group had significantly less patient off-center distance (AP 1.56 cm ± 0.83 vs. MP 4.05 cm ± 2.40, p < 0.001) and higher proportion of positioning accuracy (AP 99% vs. MP 92%), resulting in 16% radiation dose reduction (AP 6.1 mSv ± 1.3 vs. MP 7.3 mSv ± 1.2, p < 0.001) and 9% image noise reduction in erector spinae and lower noise and higher SNR for lesions in the pulmonary peripheral areas. Conclusion: The AI-based automatic positioning and centering in CT imaging is a promising new technique for reducing radiation dose and optimizing imaging workflow and image quality in imaging the chest. Key Points: • The AI-based automatic positioning (AP) operation was successful for all patients in our study. • AP method reduced the total positioning time by 28% compared with the manual positioning (MP). • AP method had less patient off-center distance and higher proportion of positioning accuracy than MP method, resulting in 16% radiation dose reduction and 9% image noise reduction in erector spinae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its strong carbon sequestration capacity and significantly expanding trend, forest over southeast China (SEC) is an important biospheric carbon sink. As intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) is a remarkable variability of the East Asian summer monsoon—the major climate system influencing the carbon exchange of SEC forest, the objective of this study is to examine the impact of atmospheric intraseasonal oscillation on CO2 fluxes in SEC forest based on daily CO2 fluxes and meteorological data. Significant 15‒60-day ISO of CO2 fluxes is identified in SEC forest during May‒August of 1980‒2013. The 15‒60-day ISO of net ecosystem exchange between atmosphere and biosphere mainly results from that of gross primary productivity (GPP), with the explained variances greater than 50% over most SEC forest areas. Due to the high drought-resistance of SEC forest, the 15‒60-day ISO of its GPP is controlled primarily by local solar radiation, which is in turn associated with the northward-propagating atmospheric ISO. Suppressed (active) convection anomaly and the thermally induced anomalous anticyclone (cyclone) on its northwestern side initiate from the southern South China Sea and then propagate northward to SEC coherently in the form of a Rossby wave-like pattern. Decreased (increased) cloud cover associated with the suppressed (active) convection anomaly leads to more (less) solar radiation reaching the SEC forest canopy, thus promoting (impairing) forest productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In our case, 3D printing was used to fabricate a custom-made titanium alloy total talar prosthesis as a mirror image of the contralateral healthy talus for a 16-year-old girl who underwent right talar resection for a recurrent giant cell tumour (GCT) of the talus. A porous surface was used over the neck and tail of the talus prosthesis to promote soft tissue attachment and improve the stability of the prosthesis. Pre-drilled medial and lateral holes were prepared for ligament repair and attachment. Eighteen months after the operation, there was no tumour recurrence, and the patient walked without symptoms. The Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score was 22/30, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score was 88/100, and the prosthesis was well positioned on radiographs. The short- and medium-term outcomes indicated that 3D-printed modular talar prostheses could be an effective treatment option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The relationship between depression and long-term clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis is unclear. This study was to explore the effect of depressive symptoms on patient survival and technique survival in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. Methods: Patients who had received CAPD therapy for ≥ 3 months were recruited from January to June, 2009, with follow-up until June, 2019. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was used to evaluate depressive symptoms (BDI scores ≥ 14) at baseline. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and the secondary outcome was technique failure. Results: Participants were 275 CAPD patients (mean age 49.6 ± 15.9 years, male 54.2%). Of these, 86 (31.3%) experienced depressive symptoms. The depressive group had fewer males, longer PD duration at enrollment, higher calcium levels, and lower residual glomerular filtration rates (all P < 0.05) than the non-depressive group. Long-term patient survival (P = 0.037) and technique survival (P = 0.003) were significantly poorer in depressive group than in non-depressive group. After adjustment for confounders in multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models, depressive symptoms remained independent predictors of mortality risk [hazard ratio (HR) 1.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–2.48; P = 0.035] and technique failure (HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.07–3.47; P = 0.029). Conclusion: The prevalence of patients with depressive symptoms was 31.3% in this cohort. The patient survival rate and technique survival rate in depressive group were lower than in non-depressive group. Depressive symptoms were independent risk factors for long-term mortality and technique failure in CAPD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicone grease (SG) is usually applied on the interface between the insulation of cable and cable joint to enhance the sealing of interface. However, in long-term operating process, SG will gradually diffuse into silicone rubber (SiR) matrix and cause the electrical performance degradation of SiR, which can even result in the failure of cable joints. The commercial HTV SiR with functional silica filler was used in this study, and the electrical tree characteristics SiR samples with different SG coating times were investigated. The crosslinking density and trap distribution were analyzed to explain the transformation of electrical tree with different coating times. It was found that the electrical tree initiation voltage dropped from 13.35 to 10.46 kV and the fractal dimension increased from 1.25 to 1.52, while the electrical tree length showed an almost constant trend. The morphology of the electrical trees gradually changed from branch-type to bush-type. The decline of crosslinking density from 1.92 × 10−4 to 1.76 × 10−4 mol/g is attributed to the breaking of crosslinking structure between silica and SiR matrix, which can lead to the expanding free volume and decreased deep trap density. More high-energy electrons can be generated, which aggravates the degradation of molecular chains and further results in the decreased electrical tree initiation voltage. In addition, the denser morphology of electrical tree is considered to be caused by the more growth direction for electrical tree provided by the expanding free volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]