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AbstractThere are lots of methods for complete independence test for high-dimensional random vector. However, it is difficult for practitioners to choose a powerful test because the true alternative hypothesis is unknown. Combining the L2-type with the L∞-type test statistic, we propose a rank-based test method. From a technical point of view, the proposed test is distribution-free and consequently the corresponding critical values or p-values can be obtained by Monte Carlo methods. Compared with permutation or bootstrap test methods, the proposed test method saves calculation cost. Simulation results show that the resulting method has excellent performance with finite sample size. We also provide a real data application to demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of the proposed test method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Study assessed four adverse events following 2022–2023 seasonal influenza vaccines. • Study population was 12.7 million Medicare enrollees 65 years and older. • There was no increase in post-vaccination incidence rates for three adverse events. • Anaphylaxis rates were elevated and possibly modified by concomitant vaccination. While safety of influenza vaccines is well-established, some studies have suggested potential associations between influenza vaccines and certain adverse events (AEs). This study examined the safety of the 2022–2023 influenza vaccines among U.S. adults ≥ 65 years. A self-controlled case series compared incidence rates of anaphylaxis, encephalitis/encephalomyelitis, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), and transverse myelitis following 2022–2023 seasonal influenza vaccinations (i.e., any, high-dose or adjuvanted) in risk and control intervals among Medicare beneficiaries ≥ 65 years. We used conditional Poisson regression to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for event-dependent observation time and seasonality. Analyses also accounted for uncertainty from outcome misclassification where feasible. For AEs with any statistically significant associations, we stratified results by concomitant vaccination status. Among 12.7 million vaccine recipients, we observed 76 anaphylaxis, 276 encephalitis/encephalomyelitis, 134 GBS and 75 transverse myelitis cases. Only rates of anaphylaxis were elevated in risk compared to control intervals. With all adjustments, an elevated, but non-statistically significant, anaphylaxis rate was observed following any (IRR: 2.40, 95% CI: 0.96–6.03), high-dose (IRR: 2.31, 95% CI: 0.67–7.91), and adjuvanted (IRR: 3.28, 95% CI: 0.71–15.08) influenza vaccination; anaphylaxis IRRs were 2.54 (95% CI: 0.49–13.05) and 1.64 (95% CI: 0.38–7.05) for persons with and without concomitant vaccination, respectively. Rates of encephalitis/encephalomyelitis, GBS, or transverse myelitis were not elevated following 2022–2023 seasonal influenza vaccinations among U.S. adults ≥ 65 years. There was an increased rate of anaphylaxis following influenza vaccination that may have been influenced by concomitant vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nonconforming E Q 1 r o t finite element method (FEM) is studied for the nonlinear coupled predator-prey equations. The superconvergence estimates are derived for the semi-discrete and Crank-Nicolson (C-N) fully discrete schemes based on the two special properties of this element: one is that the interpolation operator is equivalent to its projection operator, and the other is that the consistency error can be estimated as order O (h 2) in the broken H 1 -norm when the exact solution belongs to H 3 (Ω) , which is one order higher than that of its interpolation error estimate. Moreover, the unique solvability of the nonlinear coupled semi-discrete scheme is certified through the Brouwer fixed point theorem analytically. On the other hand, the stability of the decoupled C-N fully discrete scheme is proved by mathematical induction, which leads to the unconditional superconvergence of order O (h 2 + τ 2) without the ratio between the time-step τ and the mesh size h. Finally, numerical examples are given to demonstrate the validity of our method. • Based on two properties of E Q 1 r o t element, we get superclose and superconvergence for the semi-discrete and C-N schemes. • The unique solvability of the nonlinear coupled semi-discrete scheme is proved by Brouwer fixed point theorem analytically. • The stability of the decoupled C-N scheme is proved by mathematical induction. • From the stability, we can eliminate the inverse inequality to get the superconvergence without time-step restriction. • The analysis and the results presented are also valid for other popular finite elements when they satisfy some conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The computation offloading problem in mobile edge computing (MEC) has received a lot of attention, but service caching is also a research topic that cannot be ignored in MEC. Due to the limited resources available on the Edge Server (ES), a wise computation offloading and service caching policy must be formulated in order to maximize system offload efficiency. In this paper, a many-objective joint optimization computation offloading and service caching model (MaJOCOSC) is designed. The model takes into account the limited computing and storage resources of ES, the delay and energy consumption constraints of different types of tasks, and multiple processing modes of user tasks, and sets delay, energy consumption, task hit service rate, service cache balancing, and load balancing as the five optimization objectives of MaJOCOSC. Meanwhile, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGAIII-ASF&WD) based on achievement scalar function (ASF) and the k-nearest neighbor weighted distance mating selection strategy is proposed for better solving the model. The ASF ensures that the given strategy performs well for each objective value, and the k-nearest neighbor weighted distance provides the user with a diversity of strategies. Simulation results show that NSGAIII-ASF&WD can obtain better objective values when solving the model compared with other many-objective evolutionary algorithms, and a suitable computation offloading and service caching strategy is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the Galerkin finite element method (FEM) of both the semi-discrete and the fully-discrete schemes with linear triangular element for the time-dependent Joule heating problem. Through some new estimating approaches such as the different mathematical induction assumption, the mean-value technique and the special characters of this element, the superclose and superconvergence estimates for the related variables in the H 1 -norm are derived under lower regularities of the solutions of the considered problem rigorously, which simply the proof process and improve the corresponding results in the existing literature. Finally, numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the discontinuous Galerkin method (DGM) of nonconforming Wilson element is studied for the semi-linear parabolic problem. The global superconvergence with respect to the mesh size are derived in the modified H 1 -norm for the semi-discrete scheme and two fully discrete schemes, in which the usual extrapolation and interpolation post-processing approaches are not involved, and the error estimates are one order higher than that of the traditional Galerkin finite element method (FEM). Therefore, the corresponding results in the existing literature are improved. Finally, some numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) generated from human primary cells represent a promising vascular interventional therapy. However, generation and application of these TEVGs may be significantly hindered by the limited accessibility, finite expandability, donor-donor functional variation and immune-incompatibility of primary seed cells from donors. Alternatively, human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) offer an infinite source to obtain functional vascular cells in large quantity and comparable quality for TEVG construction. To date, TEVGs (hiPSC-TEVGs) with significant mechanical strength and implantability have been generated using hiPSC-derived seed cells. Despite being in its incipient stage, this emerging field of hiPSC-TEVG research has achieved significant progress and presented promising future potential. Meanwhile, a series of challenges pertaining hiPSC differentiation, vascular tissue engineering technologies and future production and application await to be addressed. Herein, we have composed this review to introduce progress in TEVG generation using hiPSCs, summarize the current major challenges, and encapsulate the future directions of research on hiPSC-based TEVGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nonconforming finite element method (FEM) is developed and investigated for the coupled Poisson–Nernst–Planck (PNP) equations with low order EQ1rot element. Then, by use of the special properties of this element, that is, the interpolation operator is equivalent to its projection operator, and the consistency error estimate can reach order of O(h2) which is one order higher than that of its interpolation error estimates when the exact solution belongs to H3(Ω), the superclose estimates of order O(h2) and O(h2 + τ) in the broken H1‐norm are derived with new techniques for the semidiscrete scheme and backward Euler fully discrete scheme, respectively. Further, through employing interpolation postprocessing approach, the corresponding global superconvergence results are obtained. Finally, some numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. It seems that our results have never been found in the existing literature. Here h and τ denote the mesh size and time step, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon–carbon nanofibers-carbonized yeast powder composite (SCNFs/CYP) was fabricated using the electrostatic spinning and hydrothermal processes. Experimental results show that the carbon nanofibers can restrain the volume expansion of silicon in the electrochemical process and the microporous structure of carbonized yeast powder can increase the specific surface area and promote the penetration of electrolyte. The compound was cyclically tested at charge–discharge rate of 0. 5 ∘ C, and the first charge/discharge capacity was 1725 and 1732 mAh/g. Although it is lower than the capacity of single structure silicon–carbon nanofibers (SCNFs), with the increase of the number of cycles, the capacity of charging and discharging has been greatly improved, and it can be maintained at 1656 mAh/g after 180 cycles. The R CT after 1 cycle, 10 cycles and 100 cycles were 486, 286.5 and 231 Ω , from which we can see that the SCNFs–CYP has lower overall impedance values as the cycle increases. This indicated that the addition of carbon nanofibers and carbonized yeast powder inhibited the volume expansion and increased the specific surface area, providing more electrical contact sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon carbon nanoparticles (SCNPs) coated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were fabricated by a hydrothermal method and subsequently by a simple heat treatment process. SCNPs/rGO exhibit excellent electrochemical performance which not only attributes the rGO layer to inhibit the volumetric expansion of silicon and reduce the impedance between the active material and lithium ions during the electrochemical process, but also improves the electrical conductivity of SCNPs/rGO. The as-prepared compound was cyclically tested at a current density of 150 mA/g, with the first charge and discharge capacities of 3152.2 mAh/g and 3342.7 mAh/g, respectively. Moreover, the electrochemical performance of SCNPs/rGO was better than SCNPs. The R CT values for fresh battery, after 1 cycle and 100 cycles, are 120.9 Ω , 120.5 Ω and 104 Ω. Thus, compared with SCNPs, SCNPs/rGO exhibited lower overall impedance values. These results indicate that the addition of graphene layer significantly improved the electrochemical performance of SCNPs electrodes and reduced the internal resistance of the battery. Silicon carbon nanoparticles coated with rGO were obtained by hydrothermal method. The use of rGO to improve the electrical conductivity of the material can also act as a carbon matrix material to inhibit the volume expansion effect. The results showed that the addition of rGO improved the conductivity of lithium ions and played a positive role in the diffusion of lithium ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Chondrosarcoma (CS) is a high-morbidity, relatively common bone malignancy without well-established biomarkers. The proteins EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A have been investigated in many cancers, but their specific relationship to CS has not been reported. The present study examined EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A expression in CS and the clinicopathological significance of these proteins in CS pathogenesis, progression, and prognosis. Methods: EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A protein levels in 80 CS and 25 chondroma specimens were measured by immunohistochemistry and related to histological and clinical factors with chi-squared tests. Following univariate survival analysis, ROC curves calculation, and multivariate analysis. Results: EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A expression levels were significantly higher in the CS group than in the chondroma group (p < 0.05). Their immunopositivity rates were significantly greater in tissues with moderate or poor tumor differentiation, AJCC stage III or IV, Enneking stage II or III, and metastasis (p<0.05 or p<0.01 or p<0.001). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed significantly shorter survival in patients with moderately or poorly differentiated tumors, AJCC stage III or IV CS, Enneking stage II or III CS, metastasis, invasion, or EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A immunopositivity (p < 0.05 or p < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that moderate or poor tumor differentiation, AJCC stage III or IV, Enneking stage II or III, metastasis, invasion, and EAAT1, DHFR, or fetuin-A immunopositivity correlated negatively with postoperative survival and positively with mortality (p < 0.05). The AUCs for EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A were 0.654 (95% CI: 0.532–0.776, p = 0.025), 0.638 (95% CI: 0.519–0.756, p = 0.039), and 0.670 (95% CI: 0.556–0.784, p = 0.011), respectively. Conclusion: EAAT1, DHFR, and fetuin-A may be important biomarkers of the pathogenesis and progression of CS and predictors of its prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An H 1 -Galerkin mixed finite element method (MFEM) is developed for the Benjamin–Bona–Mahony (BBM) equation with the bilinear element and zero order Raviart–Thomas element pair (Q 11 ∕ Q 10 × Q 01). Then based on the special interpolation properties of the above two elements and the mean-value technique, the supercloseness and superconvergence results of order O (h 2) for the semi-discrete scheme and of order O (h 2 + (Δ t) 2) for the Crank–Nicolson fully-discrete scheme are deduced for the original variable u in H 1 -norm and the flux p → in H (d i v , Ω) -norm, respectively. Finally, a numerical example is carried out to demonstrate the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• L2 1 B disordered structure has a higher stability in EQHA CoMnNiSn comparing with ordered Y-type structure. • L2 1 B disorder can suppress the martensitic transformation predicted in ordered CoMnNiSn. • CoMnNiSn bulk and ribbon samples are both ferromagnets with M s closing to 5.00 μ B /f.u. • Influence of atomic disorder is important when predicting the properties of Heusler alloys. Equiatomic quaternary Heusler alloy CoMnNiSn has been synthesized in both bulk and ribbon form to explain the contradictions in the magnetic properties and possible martensitic transformation between different literature. The structure, magnetic properties and electronic structure of CoMnNiSn were investigated both theoretically and experimentally. A cubic Heusler phase can be identified in the XRD patterns. A small amount of secondary phase is observed in bulk CoMnNiSn while it is eliminated in the melt-spun ribbons. The saturation magnetization M s at 5 K of bulk and ribbon CoMnNiSn are 4.85 μ B /f.u. and 4.76 μ B /f.u., respectively. This and also the calculation results suggest that ferromagnetic ground state has been established in CoMnNiSn samples. There is no trace of martensitic transformation in CoMnNiSn bulk and ribbon samples. The L2 1 B atomic disorder can be responsible for this, which comes from the random occupation of Co/Ni at A, C sites in the cubic lattice of CoMnNiSn and has a higher stability comparing with the ordered Y-type structure. This suppression effect is further explained by the weakening of the Jahn-Teller effect in the austenite DOS of L2 1 B type CoMnNiSn. All this calls for more attention to the effects of atomic disorder in the design of magnetic shape memory alloys in equiatomic quaternary Heusler alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposed a pitching wave energy converter with adjustable natural period (called C-WEC), which is achieved by moving the movable mass block. A prototype was fabricated and tested in a wave flume to study the performance of the C-WEC. Free decay tests demonstrated that the natural period of the prototype can be adjusted between 1.60 s and 3.30 s. The wave flume tests showed that for regular and irregular waves, the prototype can capture high mechanical power and exhibit large response amplitude operator (RAO) as well as high capture width ratio (CWR) across a wide range of wave periods, avoiding poor performance in non-resonant states. The Froude scaling law was used to assess the annual average power of a 1:16th full-scale C-WEC in real seas off the Canary Islands based on the measured mechanical power in irregular waves. The result showed that the annual average power of the C-WEC using tuning control can be up to 29.8 kW, an increase of 67.4% compared to the WEC with a constant natural period. The experimental results showed that the C-WEC is a promising pitching wave energy converter and its natural period adjustment method can be easily applied to other pitching WECs. • A pitching WEC with adjustable natural period (called C-WEC) was proposed. • A C-WEC prototype was fabricated and tested in a wave flume. • Prototype's natural period can be adjusted between 1.6 s and 3.30 s. • Prototype can capture high mechanical power across a wide range of wave periods. • Froude scaling law was used to assess the full-scale C-WEC's annual average power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Effect of Bi-doping on martensitic transformation in Heusler type MSMAs was investigated. • Bi-doping can suppress the martenstic transformation in Ni 2 MnGa 1-x Bi x and Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Bi x. • Electron density can be an appropriate factor to ascribe variation of martensitic transformation temperature. • Magnetic structures of Ni 2 MnGa and Mn 2 NiGa remain unchanged after Bi-doping. The effects of Bi-doping on the electronic structure, martensitic transformation and magnetic properties of Heusler alloys Ni 2 MnGa 1- x Bi x and Mn 2 NiGa 1- x Bi x (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) were investigated theoretically. The substitution of Bi for Ga has a negative effect on the martensitic transformation. The total energy difference ΔE M between the martensite and austenite decreases gradually with the doping of Bi. When x = 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 in Ni 2 MnGa 1- x Bi x and x = 1.0 in Mn 2 NiGa 1- x Bi x , the martensite phase becomes higher in energy comparing with the austenite. Thus the doping of Bi can lower the martensitic transformation temperature T M and finally suppresses it. The possible reasons for this trend are related to the increasing valence electron concentration e/a and cell volume V with Bi-doping. The competition between them may be ascribed further by the electron density, which combines the effect of valence electron concentration and size effect. The electron densities of Ni 2 MnGa 1- x Bi x and Mn 2 NiGa 1- x Bi x decrease monotonously with increasing Bi content. This agrees well with the variation of ΔE M or T M. The doping of Bi does not change the magnetic structure of Ni 2 MnGa 1- x Bi x and Mn 2 NiGa 1- x Bi x. The former is ferromagnetic and the latter is ferrimagnetic in both martensite and austenite state. These results can help to introduce new component like Bi to Heusler alloys and discover new functional materials in them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x (x = 0–0.5) alloys were synthesized successfully to explore possible Cr-based all- d -metal Heusler alloys with magnetic shape memory effects. When x = 0–0.25, Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x are single BCC Heusler phase, but when x = 0.375 some FCC phase co-exists with the main Heusler phase, finally a pure FCC phase is formed in Mn 2 NiGa 0.5 Cr 0.5. In BCC Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x , Cr-doping leads to the decrease of martensitic transformation temperature T M and increase of the saturation magnetization M s at 5 K. While the FCC phase does not show the trace of phase transition and has a very low magnetization till 5 K. First-principles calculations suggest that, in BCC Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x the partial spin moment of Cr is large and parallel to that of Mn (B), which leads to the increase of M s when x = 0–0.25. A higher stability of the martensite than the austenite is found, which supports the phase transition observed experimentally. It may be noticed that the T M of Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x decreases with both increasing e/a and decreasing cell volume, which is opposite to the empirical rule in traditional Heusler alloys. Calculation suggests that Cr–Ga disorder may be a possible reason for this decrease. • Heusler alloys Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x were synthesized successfully. • Effect of Cr-doping on phase transition and magnetism of Mn 2 NiGa was studied. • Unlike traditional Heusler alloys, T M of Mn 2 NiGa 1-x Cr x decreases with increasing e/a and decreasing cell volume. • A new Mn 2 Ni(Ga, Cr) FCC phase was reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Galerkin finite element method (FEM) is developed for nonlinear Poisson–Nernst–Planck (PNP) equations. Based on the combination technique of the element's interpolation and Ritz projection together with the special mean value approach, the superclose and superconvergence estimates with order O (h 2) are derived under weaker regularity requirements of the exact solution. Some numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new low order two-grid mixed finite element method (FEM) is developed for the nonlinear Benjamin-Bona-Mahoney (BBM) equation, in which the famous nonconforming rectangular C N Q 1 r o t element and Q 0 × Q 0 constant element are used to approximate the exact solution u and the variable p → = ∇ u t , respectively. Then, based on the special properties of these two elements and interpolation post-processing technique, the superconvergence results for u in broken H 1-norm and p → in L 2-norm are obtained for the semi-discrete and Crank-Nicolson fully-discrete schemes without the restriction between the time step τ and coarse mesh size H or the fine mesh size h , which improve the results of the existing literature. Finally, some numerical results are provided to confirm the theoretical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: High fasting plasma glucose (HFPG) has been identified as a risk factor for drug-resistant tuberculosis incidence and mortality. However, the epidemic characteristics of HFPG-attributable multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) remain unclear. We aimed to analyze the global spatial patterns and temporal trends of HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB from 1990 to 2019. Methods: Utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 project, annual deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB were conducted from 1990 to 2019. Joinpoint regression was employed to quantify trends over time. Results: From 1990 to 2019, the deaths and DALYs due to HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB globally showed an overall increasing trend, with a significant increase until 2003 to 2004, followed by a gradual decline or stability thereafter. The low sociodemographic index (SDI) region experienced the most significant increase over the past 30 years. Regionally, Sub-Saharan Africa, Central Asia and Oceania remained the highest burden. Furthermore, there was a sex and age disparity in the burden of HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB, with young males in the 25–34 age group experiencing higher mortality, DALYs burden and a faster increasing trend than females. Interestingly, an increasing trend followed by a stable or decreasing pattern was observed in the ASMR and ASDR of HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB with SDI increasing. Conclusion: The burden of HFPG-attributable MDR-TB and XDR-TB rose worldwide from 1990 to 2019. These findings emphasize the importance of routine bi-directional screening and integrated management for drug-resistant TB and diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Annual TTS IRs were similar between Jan-Dec 2019 and Jan-Oct 2020. • Common site TTS IRs increased with age and were higher among males. • Unusual site TTS IRs were higher in males than females. • Unusual site TTS IRs increased with age for adults aged 18–64 years. • For adults aged ≥ 65 years, unusual site TTS IRs decreased with age. Increased risk of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) following adenovirus vector-based COVID-19 vaccinations has been identified in passive surveillance systems. TTS incidence rates (IRs) in the United States (U.S.) are needed to contextualize reports following COVID-19 vaccination. We estimated annual and monthly IRs of overall TTS, common site TTS, and unusual site TTS for adults aged 18–64 years in Carelon Research and MarketScan commercial claims (2017–Oct 2020), CVS Health and Optum commercial claims (2019–Oct 2020), and adults aged ≥ 65 years using CMS Medicare claims (2019–Oct 2020); IRs were stratified by age, sex, and race/ethnicity (CMS Medicare). Across data sources, annual IRs for overall TTS were similar between Jan-Dec 2019 and Jan-Oct 2020. Rates were higher in Medicare (IRs: 370.72 and 365.63 per 100,000 person-years for 2019 and 2020, respectively) than commercial data sources (MarketScan IRs: 24.21 and 24.06 per 100,000 person-years; Optum IRs: 32.60 and 31.29 per 100,000 person-years; Carelon Research IRs: 24.46 and 26.16 per 100,000 person-years; CVS Health IRs: 30.31 and 30.25 per 100,000 person-years). Across years and databases, common site TTS IRs increased with age and were higher among males. Among adults aged ≥ 65 years, the common site TTS IR was highest among non-Hispanic black adults. Annual unusual site TTS IRs ranged between 2.02 and 3.04 (commercial) and 12.49 (Medicare) per 100,000 person-years for Jan-Dec 2019; IRs ranged between 1.53 and 2.67 (commercial) and 11.57 (Medicare) per 100,000 person-years for Jan-Oct 2020. Unusual site TTS IRs were higher in males and increased with age in commercial data sources; among adults aged ≥ 65 years, IRs decreased with age and were highest among non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska native adults. TTS IRs were generally similar across years, higher for males, and increased with age. These rates may contribute to surveillance of post-vaccination TTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Long-term care residents were among the most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. We estimated vaccine effectiveness of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in Medicare nursing home residents aged ≥65 years during pre-Delta and high Delta periods. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study from 13 December 2020 to 20 November 2021 using Medicare claims data. Exposures included 2 and 3 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. We used inverse probability weighting and Cox proportional hazards models to estimate absolute and relative vaccine effectiveness. Results Two-dose vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19–related death was 69.8% (95% CI, 65.9%‒73.3%) during the pre-Delta period and 55.7% (49.5%‒61.1%) during the high Delta period, without adjusting for time since vaccination. We observed substantial waning of effectiveness from 65.1% (54.2%‒73.5%) within 6 months from second-dose vaccination to 45.2% (30.6%‒56.7%) ≥6 months after second-dose vaccination in the high Delta period. Three doses provided 88.7% (73.5%‒95.2%) vaccine effectiveness against death, and the incremental benefit of 3 vs 2 doses was 74.6% (40.4%‒89.2%) during high Delta. Among beneficiaries with a prior COVID-19 infection, 3-dose vaccine effectiveness for preventing death was 78.6% (50.0%‒90.8%), and the additional protection of 3 vs 2 doses was 70.0% (30.1%‒87.1%) during high Delta. Vaccine effectiveness estimates against less severe outcomes (eg, infection) were lower. Conclusions This nationwide real-world study demonstrated that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines provided substantial protection against COVID-19–related death. Two-dose protection waned after 6 months. Third doses during the high Delta period provided significant additional protection for individuals with or without a prior COVID-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report the characteristics and the visual and anatomical outcomes of secondary macular holes (SMHs) diagnosed after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair and their associated factors. Methods: Retrospective, interventional case series. All consecutive patients who were diagnosed with SMH after RRD repair at Beijing Tongren eye center from January 2016 to April 2021 were included. Patients who had their primary RRD repair in other hospitals and were referred to our center after diagnosis of SMH were also included. The minimum follow-up time after RRD repair was 6 months. Results: 37 SMHs were diagnosed within a series of 5696 RRDs. Including 24 eyes referred from other hospitals after the diagnosis of SMH, 61 eyes were included. The type of primary RRD repair surgery included 22/61 (36%) eyes with scleral buckling procedure (SBP) and 39/61 (64%) eyes with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). 21/61 (34%) eyes had recurrent RD. The median time to SMH diagnosis was 150 days (range, 7 ~ 4380 days). Macular hole (MH) closure was achieved in 77% eyes. Visual acuity (VA) improvement of at least 2 lines of Snellen's visual acuity was observed in 51% eyes. Final MH closure status was associated with preoperative MH diameter (for every 50 μm increment) (P = 0.046, OR = 0.875, 95%CI: 0.767 ~ 0.998). VA improvement was associated with final MH closure status (P = 0.009, OR = 8.742, 95%CI: 1.711 ~ 44.672). Final VA (logMAR) was associated with recurrent RD (P < 0.001, B = 0.663, 95%CI: 0.390 ~ 0.935), preoperative MH diameter (P = 0.001, B = 0.038, 95%CI: 0.017 ~ 0.058), VA at the time of SMH diagnosis (P < 0.001, B = 0.783, 95%CI: 0.557 ~ 1.009) and final MH closure status (P = 0.024, B = -0.345, 95%CI: -0.644 ~ -0.046). For patients without recurrent RD, VA improvement and final VA was associated with final MH closure status (P = 0.016 and P < 0.001, respectively), while for patients with recurrent RD, VA improvement or final VA did not associate with final MH closure status (P > 0.05). Conclusion: For SMH diagnosed after RRD repair, final MH closure status was associated with preoperative MH diameter. Recurrent RD, larger preoperative MH diameter, worse VA at the time of SMH diagnosis and failed MH closure are predictive factors for worse final VA. Visual outcome is associated with final MH closure status in patients without recurrent RD, but not as so in patients with recurrent RD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number, size, and composition of lipid droplets can be influenced by dietary changes that shift energy substrate availability. This diversification of lipid droplets can promote metabolic flexibility and shape cellular stress responses in unique tissues with distinctive metabolic roles. Using Drosophila, we uncovered a role for myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) in modulating diet‐dependent lipid droplet diversification within adult striated muscle, impacting mortality rates. Muscle‐specific attenuation of MEF2, whose chronic activation maintains glucose and mitochondrial homeostasis, leads to the accumulation of large, cholesterol ester‐enriched intramuscular lipid droplets in response to high calorie, carbohydrate‐sufficient diets. The diet‐dependent accumulation of these lipid droplets also correlates with both enhanced stress protection in muscle and increases in organismal lifespan. Furthermore, MEF2 attenuation releases an antagonistic regulation of cell cycle gene expression programs, and up‐regulation of Cyclin E is required for diet‐ and MEF2‐dependent diversification of intramuscular lipid droplets. The integration of MEF2‐regulated gene expression networks with dietary responses thus plays a critical role in shaping muscle metabolism and function, further influencing organismal lifespan. Together, these results highlight a potential protective role for intramuscular lipid droplets during dietary adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-reacting resonant C-shaped wave energy converter (SR-C-WEC) consisting of a pair of resonant sub-C-WECs connected by a rigid frame is proposed, which uses the two sub-C-WECs to provide mutual reaction force to solve the efficiency problem caused by floating WECs being hard to provide enough reaction force on WEC and uses the controllable resonant WEC to solve the efficiency problem caused by the temporal variability of waves. Resonant control and equivalent wave force control models are proposed to maximize the absorbed power. The effect of spacing between two sub-C-WECs, natural period, PTO damping and mooring stiffness to absorbed power is investigated. It is found that SR-C-WEC can achieve resonance at each wave condition and the power generation is maximum when the spacing is equal to half wavelength, which is comparable to the power generation when the frame is fixed. In a real sea condition, when the spacing is adjusted or not, the difference in average annual power is only 8.3%. Therefore, constant spacing can be used to simplify the structure and facilitate the application of SR-C-WEC. It is predicted that SR-C-WEC can reach 3638 effective power generation hours per year in real seas off China. • A self-reacting resonant floating wave energy converter (SR-C-WEC) is proposed. • The relationship between the equivalent wave force and the spacing is revealed. • The efficiency of the device can be increased by using resonance. • The energy absorption characteristics of the SR-C-WEC are less affected by the mooring system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Five of six outcomes had no increased risk following COVID-19 monovalent mRNA vaccines (primary series and booster doses). • No consistent risk of pulmonary embolism was observed after exposure to COVID-19 monovalent mRNA vaccines. • Results support the favorable safety profile of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines administered in the U.S. elderly population. Our near-real-time safety monitoring of 16 adverse events (AEs) following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination identified potential elevation in risk for six AEs following primary series and monovalent booster dose administration. The crude association with AEs does not imply causality. Accordingly, we conducted robust evaluation of potential associations. We conducted two self-controlled case series studies of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273) in U.S. Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥ 65 years. Adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated following primary series doses for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), pulmonary embolism (PE), immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC); and following monovalent booster doses for AMI, PE, ITP, Bell's Palsy (BP) and Myocarditis/Pericarditis (Myo/Peri). The primary series study included 3,360,981 individuals who received 6,388,542 primary series doses; the booster study included 6,156,100 individuals with one monovalent booster dose. The AMI IRR following BNT162b2 primary series and booster was 1.04 (95 % CI: 0.91 to 1.18) and 1.06 (95 % CI: 1.003 to 1.12), respectively; for mRNA-1273 primary series and booster, 1.01 (95 % CI: 0.82 to 1.26) and 1.05 (95 % CI: 0.998 to 1.11), respectively. The hospital inpatient PE IRR following BNT162b2 primary series and booster was 1.19 (95 % CI: 1.03 to 1.38) and 0.86 (95 % CI: 0.78 to 0.95), respectively; for mRNA-1273 primary series and booster, 1.15 (95 % CI: 0.94 to 1.41) and 0.87 (95 % CI: 0.79 to 0.96), respectively. The studies' results do not support that exposure to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines elevate the risk of ITP, DIC, Myo/Peri, and BP. We did not find an increased risk for AMI, ITP, DIC, BP, and Myo/Peri and there was not consistent evidence for PE after exposure to COVID-19 mRNA primary series or monovalent booster vaccines. These results support the favorable safety profile of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines administered in the U.S. elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HMGB1 and ER stress have been considered to participate in the progression of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). However, the molecular mechanism underlying HMGB1 and ER stress in PAH remains unclear. This study aims to explore whether HMGB1 induces pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) functions and pulmonary artery remodeling through ER stress activation. Methods: Primary cultured PASMCs and monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PAH rats were applied in this study. Cell proliferation and migration were determined by CCK-8, EdU and transwell assay. Western blotting was conducted to detect the protein levels of protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor-4 (ATF4), seven in absentia homolog 2 (SIAH2) and homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2). Hemodynamic measurements, immunohistochemistry staining, hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to evaluate the development of PAH. The ultrastructure of ER was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Results: In primary cultured PASMCs, HMGB1 reduced HIPK2 expression through upregulation of ER stress-related proteins (PERK and ATF4) and subsequently increased SIAH2 expression, which ultimately led to PASMC proliferation and migration. In MCT-induced PAH rats, interfering with HMGB1 by glycyrrhizin, suppression of ER stress by 4-phenylbutyric acid or targeting SIAH2 by vitamin K3 attenuated the development of PAH. Additionally, tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), as a component of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, reversed hemodynamic deterioration and vascular remodeling by targeting PERK/ATF4/SIAH2/HIPK2 axis. Conclusions: The present study provides a novel insight to understand the pathogenesis of PAH and suggests that targeting HMGB1/PERK/ATF4/SIAH2/HIPK2 cascade might have potential therapeutic value for the prevention and treatment of PAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, binder-free tungsten oxide carbon nanofibers and graphene oxide composites (WO3 CNFs/GO) were prepared as self-supporting anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by applying a one-step electrostatic spinning technology. Owing to the combination of WO3 CNFs (WCF) and graphene oxide (GO), the composites exhibit excellent performance by suppressing expansion during the cycle. WO3 CNFs (WCF) provide excellent continuity and uniform width, and the GO adhered to the WCF forms a cross-linked conductive network and an internal mesoporous environment, which reduces the diffusion distance of electrons/ions and facilitates charge transfer. In addition, the disordered arrangement of WO3 CNFs (WCFs) can increase the porosity and increase the contact area with the electrolyte, which is more favorable for electrolyte penetration. The WO3 CNF/GO (WCFG) anode had a specific capacity of 644.6 mA h g−1 after 250 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Realized wave force testing and addressed issues of control information and basis. • Effects of resonance, damping, nonlinearity on wave energy conversion were revealed. • The novel WEC system was verified to have weak nonlinear characteristics. • A hydrodynamic parameter testing method applicable to the novel WEC was proposed. • It was confirmed that the novel WEC could actively achieve resonance. Inefficiency and intermittency caused by high variabilities of wave properties are common problems in existing wave energy technology. Resonant wave energy conversion technology can effectively solve these problems. However, the nonlinearity induced by the wave energy converter's radiation and operation inhibits the resonance. After weakening the nonlinearity by hydrodynamic optimization and operation manner design, a novel wave energy converter that can realize resonance was proposed. In this paper, it is verified that this wave energy conversion system is close to linear, even in the case of large amplitude oscillation. For the novel wave energy converter, a radiation hydrodynamic parameter testing method is proposed, which provides parameters to accurately control the wave energy conversion system to achieve resonance; a wave force testing method is proposed, which can provide in-situ wave information to control resonance and judge resonance state; the effects of resonance, damping and nonlinearity on wave energy conversion are revealed, which provides a theoretical basis for the design of wave energy converter. Experimental studies showed that the laws of wave energy conversion are basically the same in regular and irregular waves, the methods and laws investigated in the regular waves also apply to irregular waves. And experiments also showed that the novel wave energy conversion system could be controlled to achieve resonance truly, and the novel wave energy converter can achieve resonance and highly efficient wave energy conversion in different wave conditions. The novel wave energy converter can self-perceive the wave changes and actively control its natural period to achieve resonance with incident waves, thus significantly increasing the wave energy conversion efficiency and improving intermittency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wave energy converter (WEC) must be controlled to adapt to changing wave conditions to improve its conversion efficiency. Radiation hydrodynamic parameters are essential for the resonance control of the WEC. Although existing numerical simulation and flume test methods can provide these parameters, the results obtained are often significantly different from the actual situation and do not meet the requirements for WEC control. To address this problem, an in-situ testing method for radiation hydrodynamic parameters is proposed. By this method, the analytical expression of WEC's radiation hydrodynamic parameters concerning frequency can be obtained based on a single free decay response curve. Additionally, methods for eliminating the effects of wave disturbances and mechanical friction are also presented in this paper. Based on a resonant device C-WEC, the proposed methods have been verified by numerical simulations and flume tests, providing a fundamental technology for controlling WEC to achieve resonance. • In-situ testing method of wave energy converter's radiation parameter is proposed. • A mechanical friction effect correction method is proposed. • A wave disturbance weakening method is proposed. • The proposed method is verified by numerical simulations and experimental tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), a pleiotropic protein, promotes the proliferation and migration of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), which is associated with the genesis and progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). NAMPT is highly increased in PAH patient's plasma and highly relevant to PAH severity. The mRNA and protein levels of NAMPT are elevated in PAH animal models. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms how NAMPT mediated platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced PASMCs proliferation are still unclear. The present study aimed to address these issues. Primary cultured PASMCs were attained from male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Western blotting, RT-PCR, ELISA, cell transfection, Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU incorporation assays were used in the experiments. We showed that PDGF upregulated NAMPT expression through the activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription 5 (STAT5), and elevated extracellular NAMPT further promoted the activation of NF-κB through Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), which ultimately upregulated polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) expression leading to PASMCs proliferation. Knockdown of STAT5, NAMPT or PLK4, and inhibition of TLR4 or NF-κB suppressed PDGF-induced PASMCs proliferation. Our study suggests that NAMPT plays an essential role in PDGF-induced PASMCs proliferation via TLR4/NF-κB/PLK4 pathway, suggesting that targeting NAMPT might be valuable in ameliorating pulmonary arterial hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To evaluate the rate of presumed endophthalmitis (EO) after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections performed in an operating room (OR) under sterile conditions in mainland China. Methods. Retrospective single-center study between September 2012 and December 2017 at Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing, China. Intravitreal injection database was reviewed. All anti-VEGF injections were performed using a standardized sterile technique in an OR. Injection protocols included antibiotics for 3 days pre-injection, topical 5% povidone-iodine rinsing before the procedure, and post-injection antibiotics for 3 days. Results. A total of 37,830 intravitreal injections were performed at Beijing Tongren Eye Center. Three cases were managed as presumed EO (0.0079%). Positive cultures were documented in 2 of 3 cases. EO incidence following ranibizumab and conbercept administration was 0.0088% (3 in 33,930) and 0% (0 in 3,900), respectively. No significant difference was detected between the two drugs (P = 0.745). Conclusions. Very low EO rates were seen in mainland China using a standardized sterile technique in an OR. However, EO could not be completely avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal sulfide demonstrated sluggish ionic transport kinetics due to the low electronic conductively, resulting larger volume expansion and even pulverize electrode during Li+ insertion/deinsertion. In this study, freestanding SnS nanoflower@carbon nanofiber (SnS@CNF) was prepared by the sol‐gel electrospinning of hydrothermal synthesized SnS2 nanoflower and carbonization. When direct used SnS@CNF as a binder‐free negative electrode for LIB, it delivered specific capacity of 564.4 mAh g−1@0.3 C after 450 cycles, and high rate capacities of 595, 465, 354, 267, 200, 129, 74, and 484 mAh g−1 at the current densities of 0.064, 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 0.1 mA g−1, respectively. Such excellent electrochemical performance is attributed to the nanostructured conductive CNF network not only can buffer volume expansion and prevents the aggregation of active material, but also improve Li+ migration rates during the discharge (4.47×10−7 cm2 s−1) and charge (2.73×10−6 cm2 s−1) process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SnS 2 nanosheet (NS), SnS 2 nanoflower (NF) and SnS 2 NF@reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were synthesized by hydrothermal method. When used as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), SnS 2 NF@rGO exhibits reversible specific capacities of 525 mAh/g at 0.5C after 360 cycles and 412.5 mAh/g at 2.0C, which are significantly enhanced Li storage performance over SnS 2 NS and SnS 2 NF. The detailed electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis were found that SnS 2 NF@rGO nanocomposite exhibits much reduced internal resistance originated from the decreasing Warburg factor. The electronic conductivity of the cycled SnS 2 NF@rGO is about three times more than that of cycled SnS 2 NS and SnS 2 NF. More importantly, the Li+ diffusion coefficients D L i + were calculated using the galvanostatic intermittent titration technique (GITT) method, indicating SnS 2 NF@rGO demonstrated much enhanced Li+ diffusion kinetics than that of electrodes without rGO additives. This means that SnS 2 NF@rGO is more suitable to be applied as anode materials for LIBs because the electrochemical performance was enhanced by the improved ionic transport properties, resulting from the increased electronic conductivity by the addition of two-dimensional layer structure rGO with superior electronic conductivity. This study could help us understanding how electronic conductivity contributed to ionic transport kinetics in electrochemical energy storage and conversion (EESC). • SnS 2 NF@rGO nanocomposite was synthesized by hydrothermal method. • SnS 2 NF@rGO exhibits reduced internal resistance leads to improved electrochemical performance. • The rGO additives leads to improved Li+ diffusion kinetics of SnS 2 NF@rGO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The prediction bias is mainly caused by data imbalance. • Curriculum coefficients are useful for mining hard samples and improving model generalization. • Teacher-student network ensures unbiased glaucoma diagnoses and evidence map predictions. • The evidence map output by the student network can provide more detailed information. Glaucoma is a disease that causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Research on accurate automatic screening algorithms is essential for the prevention and treatment of glaucoma. However, due to the imbalance of existing datasets and the existence of some hard samples that accompany other diverse and complex fundus diseases, the performance of current glaucoma screening algorithms is limited. In addition, the lack of interpretability also makes it difficult for the current algorithms to meet the requirements of clinical applications. In this paper, we propose a new multitask curriculum learning framework (MTCLF) for unbiased glaucoma screenings and visualizations of model decision-making areas. MTCLF is a teacher-student framework. The teacher network is used to generate the label evidence map. The student network can diagnose glaucoma and predict the evidence map at the same time with the well-designed dual-branch CNN structure and collaborative learning module. We design two curriculum coefficients θ and σ to guide the training process of the student network in the sample space so that the student network can adaptively balance the sample contribution, reduce the prediction bias and mine hard samples. The experimental results show that the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, AUC and F 2 -score of MTCLF based on the LAG dataset for glaucoma diagnoses are 0.967, 0.961, 0.970, 0.996, and 0.958, respectively. These results are superior to those of the state-of-the-art methods. MTCLF not only achieves the best performance for unbiased glaucoma diagnoses but also generates a reliable evidence map to help clinicians explore fine lesion areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Hevea brasiliensis , the laticifers, a green factory of natural rubber, are specialised vessels in which rubber biosynthesis is the main metabolism, and fresh rubber occupies 35–45% volume of latex (the cytoplasm of laticifers). Intriguingly, Latex can be reproduced, drawing on three essential components (i.e., ATP, Acetyl-CoA and NADPH) from glycolysis in laticifers during tapping (a simple collection method). Some related key genes of sucrose loading and cleavage have been identified, such as HbSUT3/HbSUT1a , HbNIN2 , and surely more genes in TCA cycle will be exploited. Besides the aerobic respiration, the anaerobic fermentation is found highly active in laticifers, however, the role of anaerobic metabolism in laticifers remains unclear. In view of the essential role of anaerobic respiration in helping plant survive adverse conditions by supplementing ATP and intermediate metabolites, we hypothesised that it would be involved in rubber biosynthesis in similar way. To assess the role of anaerobic metabolism in laticifers, two main fermentation genes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) were analysed and characterised on their gene transcription, protein expression, enzyme activities, and the corresponding metabolites flux in response to tapping treatments. Our comprehensive results revealed that the available ATP decreased rapidly with tapping, accompanying by the increasement of dry rubber yield. Moreover, HbLDH1 and HbPDC4 were identified as the key genes in anaerobic metabolism of laticifers, and they were activated by tapping，indicated by a 3.4 - fold decrease in lactate content and a 4.6 - fold increase of acetaldehyde. In addition, the levels of both acetate and acetyl-CoA decreased rapidly. These results suggested that anaerobic metabolism is indispensable to laticifers, and furthermore the synergistic regulation between ethanol and lactate fermentation has been predicted to be involved in rubber biosynthesis by providing ATP or possible intermediate material acetate. A schematic diagram of anaerobic fermentation that contributes to rubber synthesis after tapping was hereby established. • Anaerobic fermentation in laticifers is largely involved in rubber synthesis. • HbLDH1 and HbPDC4 are key genes in anaerobic metabolism of the laticifers. • The transition from lactate to ethanol fermentation occurs with tappings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• RNA interference (RNAi) is of great value in plant functional genomics. However, the absence of RNAi phenotypes and the lack of uniform level of RNAi silencing has complicated gene identification. Here, the penetrance and expressivity of RNAi-mediated silencing of the phytoene desaturase ( PDS) gene in Arabidopsis thaliana were examined quantitatively to provide a reference for the likely severity and distribution of silencing effects. • Arabidopsis plants were transformed with an RNAi construct targeting PDS. Transgenic plants were examined for frequency of RNAi-mediated silencing and various silencing phenotypes. mRNA depletion level and RNAi expressivity were assayed by relative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). • High penetrance and variable expressivity of RNAi were demonstrated. An inverse correlation between PDS mRNA level and RNAi phenotype was seen. No direct relationship between copy number for the RNAi-generating transgene and phenotype was evident. Decreased RNAi penetrance in T2 plants was observed. • It is suggested that variability in RNAi expressivity and postmeiotic decrease in RNAi penetrance constitute barriers for high throughput plant gene characterization. New Phytologist (2005) doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2005.01454.x © New Phytologist (2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C-doped Fe 2 MnGaC x (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2) alloys have been synthesized and the influence of carbon on the structure and magnetic properties of Fe 2 MnGa has been investigated. The doping of C can expand the lattice of Fe 2 MnGa, suggesting that it enters the interstitial site of FCC lattice. The ferromagnetic coupling in Fe 2 MnGaC x can be strongly enhanced with increasing C content. The ferromagnetic to antiferromagnetic transition in undoped Fe 2 MnGa is suppressed by C-doping and disappears when x = 0.1 and 0.2. The saturation magnetization M s and Curie temperature T C also increase with C-doping. Large coercivity and exchange bias can be observed in the magnetic hysteresis loops of Fe 2 MnGa, due to the coexistence of FM and AFM states. But in Fe 2 MnGaC 0.2 , both of them disappear and a pure ferromagnetic character is observed. All this suggests that C-doping can be a possible way to adjust the magnetic properties of Fe 2 MnGa and other related alloys. • Fe 2 MnGaC x alloys were synthesized successfully. • Effect of C-doping on structure and magnetism of Fe 2 MnGa was studied. • Ferromagnetic state in Fe 2 MnGa can be strongly enhanced by C-doping. • A possible way to adjust the magnetic structure of Fe 2 MnGa is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New Fe 2 MnSi 1−x B x Heusler alloys have been synthesized. • B can enter substitutional or interstitial site, depending on its content. • B substitution can enhance ferromagnetism in Fe 2 MnSi obviously. • Mechanism for this enhancement was discussed in detail. A series of Fe 2 MnSi 1−x B x (x = 0–0.4) Heusler alloys was synthesized and investigated. The variation of lattice parameters with B content suggests that B prefers entering the substitutional site of Fe 2 MnSi when the amount is small. But when B content is high, it enters the interstitial site. A spin reorientation is observed at ~54 K in Fe 2 MnSi, which moves to low temperatures with increasing B content and disappears when x = 0.3. Both the Curie temperature T C and saturation magnetization M s increase with the substitution of B for Si. The M s gets closer to the calculated total spin moment M t. All this suggests that the dope of B can enhance the ferromagnetic character of Fe 2 MnSi 1−x B x. For the high B content, B-doping expands the lattice and enlarges the distance between magnetic atoms. This leads to the increase of Fe and Mn spin moments. The substitution of B for Si has an ordering-effect for Fe 2 MnSi lattice by forming a strong covalent bonding and relieves the possible Fe-Mn disorder. This effect also contributes to the increase of M s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]