This work investigated the chemical and electrochemical mechanisms of localised corrosion triggered by CaS·xMgO·y Al_(2)O_(3)·TiN complex inclusions in high strength low alloy steel(HSLAS)under a simula...This work investigated the chemical and electrochemical mechanisms of localised corrosion triggered by CaS·xMgO·y Al_(2)O_(3)·TiN complex inclusions in high strength low alloy steel(HSLAS)under a simulated marine environment.Special focus was given to the role of the TiN portion of the inclusion on the initiation and growth of the corrosion pits.The thermodynamic process of pitting initiation was investigated by Gibbs free energy,Pourbaix diagram and first principle calculation.Localised corrosion is mainly induced by inclusions and triggered by dissolution of adjacent distorted matrix.Chemical dissolution of CaS portion in CaS·xMgO·y Al_(2)O_(3)·TiN complex inclusion creates an acidic aggressive environment that accelerates the further dissolution of inclusion and matrix.Galvanic coupling effect between TiN inclusion and matrix is directly verified.TiN covered with a TiOfilm acts as the cathodic phase in galvanic corrosion,although it has a lower Volta potential than the matrix.This is an unusual correlation with the scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy result,which has been explained for this special system.展开更多
The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation ...The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The WBE measurements demonstrate that the localised corrosion is enhanced by the in-situ local removal of porous corrosion products,supported by the morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The enhanced localised corrosion does not originate from the damaged wire in WBE where the corrosion products are removed but from the other undamaged wires,which is reported for the first time.A mechanism is proposed that the intensive anodic polarisation effect of the damaged wire on the undamaged wires could account for the enhanced localised corrosion,which is due to the protective corrosion products newly formed on the damaged surface and the increase in the potential of damaged wire.展开更多
Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory co...Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory conditions. In this review, methodologic aspects of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP and its clinical application in focal treatment of LPCa as well as future perspective of this method were presented. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic parameters of padoporphin and padeliporfin using as VTP photosensitizers were described, as well as methodologic question of radiation delivery and dosimetry, and oxygen monitoring in cancer tissue in context of VTP safety and efficiency of LPCa focal therapy were discussed. The results of clinical trials concerning application of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP in LPCa were also presented. The future of VTP is development of protocols, founded on the realtime feedback and rules-based approach to make this strategy a standard procedure in LPCa treatment. To evaluate clinical potential of this procedure, a costeffectiveness analysis is also necessary.展开更多
The Edematofibrosclerotic Panniculitis (EFP) and the Localised Adiposity (LA) have controversial pathogenesis and therapy. A single-centre observational study has been performed to assess the potential efficacy, the l...The Edematofibrosclerotic Panniculitis (EFP) and the Localised Adiposity (LA) have controversial pathogenesis and therapy. A single-centre observational study has been performed to assess the potential efficacy, the limitations and the side effects of the medical treatment of EFP and AL by means of a multicomponent nutraceutical product. Fifty female subjects have been enrolled, mean age and BMI of the patients were 46 years and 24.18 respectively. The subjects have been submitted to a two-month treatment with two tablets of a nutraceutical based on extracts of Birch (100 mg), Orthosiphon (100 mg), Red Vine Leukocyanidines (100 mg), Melilotus (5 mg) and Bromelin (150 mg). The patients have been investigated before the treatment and during the treatment (at 30 and 60 days) by means of: a) volumetry of the lower limbs with tape measurement;b) visual analogue scale assessment (VAS) of symptoms such as pain paresthesia/dysesthesia, heaviness, and of the daily diuresis;c) duplex ultrasound evaluation of the thickness of the adipose tissue at the peri-trochanteric level;d) multifrequency segmental bioimpedance (MSB) analysis for the tissue liquid component. Forty-five of the 50 enrolled subjects have completed the study and five patients have discontinued the treatment, four of which due to unexpected personal problems or health problems not related to the treatment itself and one for reporting gastrointestinal disorders (such as constipation/diarrhea) with the nutraceutical intake. At the end of the therapeutical cycle, volumetry of the limbs decreased of 7% (right) and of 6% (left). Pre/post treatment VAS assessment of symptoms showed the following mean figures: heaviness from 5.10 to 0.88;paresthesia/dysesthesia from 0.90 to 0.00;pain from 2.03 to 0.12. Diuresis increased of 31%. Duplex-ultrasound assessment of the subcutaneous adipose layers at the trochanteric level showed a reduction of slightly more than 20% at the end of the treatment in both limbs. L-Dex bioimpedance values have been as follows: 3.97 at the enrolment;1.17 at the end of the treatment (reduction of the subcutaneous tissue fluid content). The present single-centre observational study proved that the tested nutraceutical multicomponent is effective and free of relevant side effects in the treatment of EFP and AL of the lower limbs. Larger cohort studies may possibly confirm the results of this preliminary experience.展开更多
This study presents a computational framework that investigates the effect of localised surface-based corrosion on the mechanical performance of a magnesium-based alloy.A finite element-based phenomenological corrosio...This study presents a computational framework that investigates the effect of localised surface-based corrosion on the mechanical performance of a magnesium-based alloy.A finite element-based phenomenological corrosion model was used to generate a wide range of corrosion profiles,with subsequent uniaxial tensile test simulations to predict the mechanical response to failure.The python-based detection framework PitScan provides detailed quantification of the spatial phenomenological features of corrosion,including a full geometric tracking of corroding surface.Through this approach,this study is the first to quantitatively demonstrate that a surface-based non-uniform corrosion model can capture both the geometrical and mechanical features of a magne-sium alloy undergoing corrosion by comparing to experimental data.Using this verified corrosion modelling approach,a wide range of corrosion scenarios was evaluated and enabled quantitative relationships to be established between the mechanical integrity and key phenomenological corrosion features.In particular,we demonstrated that the minimal cross-sectional area parameter was the strongest predictor of the remaining mechanical strength(R2=0.98),with this relationship being independent of the severity or spatial features of localised surface corrosion.Interestingly,our analysis demonstrated that parameters described in ASTM G46-94 showed weaker correlations to the mechanical integrity of corroding specimens,compared to parameters determined by Pitscan.This study establishes new mechanistic insight into the performance of the magnesium-based materials undergoing corrosion.展开更多
Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’datase...Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’dataset.Polynomial regression algorithm and artificial neural network are applied and optimised to panels without stringer to test their capability to identify the impacts.Subsequently,the algorithms are applied to panels reinforced with stringers that represent a significant increase of complexity in terms of dynamic features of the system to test:the focus is not only on the impact position’s detection but also on the event’s severity.After the identification of the best algorithm,the corresponding machine learning model is deployed on an ARM processor minicomputer,implementing an impact detection system,able to be installed on board an aerial vehicle,making it a smart aircraft equipped with an artificial intelligence decision-making system.展开更多
Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence （PL） emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult t...Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence （PL） emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult to distinguish between the photoluminescence peaks emitted from samples prepared in different atmospheres. The reason for the appearance of similar peaks may be the similar distribution of the localised states in the gap for different samples when silicon dangling bonds of quantum dots are passivated by nitrogen or oxygen. It is revealed that both the kind and the density of passivated bonds on quantum dot surface prepared in oxygen or nitrogen have a strong influence on the enhancement of PL emission.展开更多
We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can...We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can be influenced strongly by layer distance. We attribute the two types of resonant modes to surface plasmon resonance and the localised waveguide resonance. We find that the localised waveguide transmission peak redshifts and becomes broader with increasing layer distance D. We also describe and explain the splitting, shift, and degeneration of the surface plasmon resonant transmission peak theoretically. In addition, to clarify the physical mechanism of the transmission behaviours, we analyse the distributions of electric field and total energy for the three transmission peaks with distance D = 45 nm for the double-layer system. Light transporting behaviours are mostly concentrated in the region of the slits as well as the interspaces of the two layers, and for different resonant wavelengths the electric field and energy distributions are different. It is expected that the results obtained here will be helpful for designing subwavelength metallic grating devices.展开更多
Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce s...Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce spatially localised objects.The height and size are defined to quantify the spatial position and extension of these ICA modes,respectively.In contrast to spatially extended proper orthogonal decomposition(POD)modes,ICA modes are typically localised in space,and the energy of some modes is distributed across the near-wall region.The sizes of ICA modes are multiscale and are approximately proportional to their heights.ICA modes can also help to reconstruct the statistics of turbulence,particularly the third-order moment of velocity fluctuations,which is related to the strongest Reynolds shear-stressproducing events.The results reported in this paper indicate that the ICA method may connect statistical descriptions and structural descriptions of turbulence.展开更多
In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a...In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.展开更多
BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to wh...BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.展开更多
AIM： To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal （GI） bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS： We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to...AIM： To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal （GI） bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS： We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to 2000 in the University of Regensburg hospital, which were done for Iocalisation of GI bleeding as a diagnostic step after an unsuccessful endoscopy. In addition to the scintigraphies, further diagnostic steps such as endoscopy, angiography or operations were performed. In some of the scintigraphies with negative results, a provocation test for bleeding with heparinisation was carried out. RESULTS： 73% of all scintigraphies showed a positive result. In 4.5% of the positive results, the source was located in the stomach, in 37% the source was the small bowel, in 25% the source was the right colon, in 4.5% the source was the left colon, and in 20% no clear Iocalisation was possible. Only 4% of all scintigraphies were false positive. A reliable positive scintigraphy was independent of the age of the examined patient. A provocation test for bleeding with heparin resulted in an additional 46% of positive scintigraphies with a reliable Iocalisation in primary negative scintigraphies. CONCLUSION- Our results show that scintigraphy and scintigraphy with heparin provocation tests are reliable procedures. They enable a reliable Iocalisation in about half of the obscure GI-bleeding cases. Scintigraphy is superior to angiography in locating a bleeding. It is shown that even in the age of video capsule endoscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy, scintigraphy provides a reliable and directed localization of GI bleeding and offers carefully targeted guidance for other procedures.展开更多
A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infr...A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infrastructure, is developed and trialled in an underground coal mine. The challenges of reliable sensing in the mine environment are considered, and the use of a radar sensor for localisation is justified. The difficulties of achieving reliable positioning using only the radar sensor are examined. Several probabilistic data processing techniques are explored in order to estimate two key localisation parameters from a single radar signal, namely along-track position and across-track position, with respect to the gate road structures. For the case of across-track position, a conventional Kalman filter approach is sufficient to achieve a reliable estimate. However for along-track position estimation, specific infrastructure elements on the gate road rib-wall must be identified by a tracking algorithm. Due to complexities associated with this data processing problem, a novel visual analytics approach was explored in a 3D interactive display to facilitate identification of significant features for use in a classifier algorithm. Based on the classifier output, identified elements are used as location waypoints to provide a robust and accurate mining equipment localisation estimate.展开更多
To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was m...To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.展开更多
Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and...Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.展开更多
The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies f...The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at （y, dφ（y）） where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.展开更多
We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are parti...We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of ＇phase transition＇ characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.展开更多
The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,oper...The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.展开更多
Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in s...Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.展开更多
The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjuga...The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.展开更多
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51871024,51822401 and 52104319)the National Science and Technology Resources Investigation Program of China(No.2019FY101400)。
文摘This work investigated the chemical and electrochemical mechanisms of localised corrosion triggered by CaS·xMgO·y Al_(2)O_(3)·TiN complex inclusions in high strength low alloy steel(HSLAS)under a simulated marine environment.Special focus was given to the role of the TiN portion of the inclusion on the initiation and growth of the corrosion pits.The thermodynamic process of pitting initiation was investigated by Gibbs free energy,Pourbaix diagram and first principle calculation.Localised corrosion is mainly induced by inclusions and triggered by dissolution of adjacent distorted matrix.Chemical dissolution of CaS portion in CaS·xMgO·y Al_(2)O_(3)·TiN complex inclusion creates an acidic aggressive environment that accelerates the further dissolution of inclusion and matrix.Galvanic coupling effect between TiN inclusion and matrix is directly verified.TiN covered with a TiOfilm acts as the cathodic phase in galvanic corrosion,although it has a lower Volta potential than the matrix.This is an unusual correlation with the scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy result,which has been explained for this special system.
基金the Opening Project of Material Corrosion and Protection Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province(No.2017CL18)。
文摘The effect of in-situ local damage of uniform porous corrosion products on the localised corrosion of carbon steel is investigated using the wire beam electrode technique(WBE)combined with morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The WBE measurements demonstrate that the localised corrosion is enhanced by the in-situ local removal of porous corrosion products,supported by the morphology characterisation and electrochemical tests.The enhanced localised corrosion does not originate from the damaged wire in WBE where the corrosion products are removed but from the other undamaged wires,which is reported for the first time.A mechanism is proposed that the intensive anodic polarisation effect of the damaged wire on the undamaged wires could account for the enhanced localised corrosion,which is due to the protective corrosion products newly formed on the damaged surface and the increase in the potential of damaged wire.
文摘Vascular targeted photochemotherapy(VTP) holds promise as a novel strategy of the focal treatment of localised prostate cancer(LPCa). It is convenient to perform, minimally invasive and can be conduct in ambulatory conditions. In this review, methodologic aspects of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP and its clinical application in focal treatment of LPCa as well as future perspective of this method were presented. Physicochemical and pharmacokinetic parameters of padoporphin and padeliporfin using as VTP photosensitizers were described, as well as methodologic question of radiation delivery and dosimetry, and oxygen monitoring in cancer tissue in context of VTP safety and efficiency of LPCa focal therapy were discussed. The results of clinical trials concerning application of padoporfin- and padeliporfin-mediated VTP in LPCa were also presented. The future of VTP is development of protocols, founded on the realtime feedback and rules-based approach to make this strategy a standard procedure in LPCa treatment. To evaluate clinical potential of this procedure, a costeffectiveness analysis is also necessary.
文摘The Edematofibrosclerotic Panniculitis (EFP) and the Localised Adiposity (LA) have controversial pathogenesis and therapy. A single-centre observational study has been performed to assess the potential efficacy, the limitations and the side effects of the medical treatment of EFP and AL by means of a multicomponent nutraceutical product. Fifty female subjects have been enrolled, mean age and BMI of the patients were 46 years and 24.18 respectively. The subjects have been submitted to a two-month treatment with two tablets of a nutraceutical based on extracts of Birch (100 mg), Orthosiphon (100 mg), Red Vine Leukocyanidines (100 mg), Melilotus (5 mg) and Bromelin (150 mg). The patients have been investigated before the treatment and during the treatment (at 30 and 60 days) by means of: a) volumetry of the lower limbs with tape measurement;b) visual analogue scale assessment (VAS) of symptoms such as pain paresthesia/dysesthesia, heaviness, and of the daily diuresis;c) duplex ultrasound evaluation of the thickness of the adipose tissue at the peri-trochanteric level;d) multifrequency segmental bioimpedance (MSB) analysis for the tissue liquid component. Forty-five of the 50 enrolled subjects have completed the study and five patients have discontinued the treatment, four of which due to unexpected personal problems or health problems not related to the treatment itself and one for reporting gastrointestinal disorders (such as constipation/diarrhea) with the nutraceutical intake. At the end of the therapeutical cycle, volumetry of the limbs decreased of 7% (right) and of 6% (left). Pre/post treatment VAS assessment of symptoms showed the following mean figures: heaviness from 5.10 to 0.88;paresthesia/dysesthesia from 0.90 to 0.00;pain from 2.03 to 0.12. Diuresis increased of 31%. Duplex-ultrasound assessment of the subcutaneous adipose layers at the trochanteric level showed a reduction of slightly more than 20% at the end of the treatment in both limbs. L-Dex bioimpedance values have been as follows: 3.97 at the enrolment;1.17 at the end of the treatment (reduction of the subcutaneous tissue fluid content). The present single-centre observational study proved that the tested nutraceutical multicomponent is effective and free of relevant side effects in the treatment of EFP and AL of the lower limbs. Larger cohort studies may possibly confirm the results of this preliminary experience.
基金Irish Research Council(IRC)Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship(GOIPG/2017/2102).
文摘This study presents a computational framework that investigates the effect of localised surface-based corrosion on the mechanical performance of a magnesium-based alloy.A finite element-based phenomenological corrosion model was used to generate a wide range of corrosion profiles,with subsequent uniaxial tensile test simulations to predict the mechanical response to failure.The python-based detection framework PitScan provides detailed quantification of the spatial phenomenological features of corrosion,including a full geometric tracking of corroding surface.Through this approach,this study is the first to quantitatively demonstrate that a surface-based non-uniform corrosion model can capture both the geometrical and mechanical features of a magne-sium alloy undergoing corrosion by comparing to experimental data.Using this verified corrosion modelling approach,a wide range of corrosion scenarios was evaluated and enabled quantitative relationships to be established between the mechanical integrity and key phenomenological corrosion features.In particular,we demonstrated that the minimal cross-sectional area parameter was the strongest predictor of the remaining mechanical strength(R2=0.98),with this relationship being independent of the severity or spatial features of localised surface corrosion.Interestingly,our analysis demonstrated that parameters described in ASTM G46-94 showed weaker correlations to the mechanical integrity of corroding specimens,compared to parameters determined by Pitscan.This study establishes new mechanistic insight into the performance of the magnesium-based materials undergoing corrosion.
文摘Machine learning algorithms are trained and compared to identify and to characterise the impact on typical aerospace panels of different geometry.Experimental activities are conducted to build a proper impacts’dataset.Polynomial regression algorithm and artificial neural network are applied and optimised to panels without stringer to test their capability to identify the impacts.Subsequently,the algorithms are applied to panels reinforced with stringers that represent a significant increase of complexity in terms of dynamic features of the system to test:the focus is not only on the impact position’s detection but also on the event’s severity.After the identification of the best algorithm,the corresponding machine learning model is deployed on an ARM processor minicomputer,implementing an impact detection system,able to be installed on board an aerial vehicle,making it a smart aircraft equipped with an artificial intelligence decision-making system.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.10764002 and 60966002)the National Key Laboratory of Surface Physics at Fudan University
文摘Silicon quantum dots fabricated by nanosecond pulsed laser in nitrogen, oxygen or air atmosphere have enhanced photoluminescence （PL） emission with the stimulated emission observed at about 700 nm. It is difficult to distinguish between the photoluminescence peaks emitted from samples prepared in different atmospheres. The reason for the appearance of similar peaks may be the similar distribution of the localised states in the gap for different samples when silicon dangling bonds of quantum dots are passivated by nitrogen or oxygen. It is revealed that both the kind and the density of passivated bonds on quantum dot surface prepared in oxygen or nitrogen have a strong influence on the enhancement of PL emission.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 60708014)the Science Foundation for Postdoctorate of China (Grant No. 2004035083)+2 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province of China (Grant No. 06JJ2034)the Excellent Doctorate Dissertation Foundation of Central South University of China (Grant No. 2008yb039)the Hunan Provincial Innovation Foundation for Postgraduate (Grant No. CX2009B029)
文摘We investigate the relationship between the transmission and the layer distance of double-layer gold slit arrays by using the finite-difference time-domain method. The results show that the transmission properties can be influenced strongly by layer distance. We attribute the two types of resonant modes to surface plasmon resonance and the localised waveguide resonance. We find that the localised waveguide transmission peak redshifts and becomes broader with increasing layer distance D. We also describe and explain the splitting, shift, and degeneration of the surface plasmon resonant transmission peak theoretically. In addition, to clarify the physical mechanism of the transmission behaviours, we analyse the distributions of electric field and total energy for the three transmission peaks with distance D = 45 nm for the double-layer system. Light transporting behaviours are mostly concentrated in the region of the slits as well as the interspaces of the two layers, and for different resonant wavelengths the electric field and energy distributions are different. It is expected that the results obtained here will be helpful for designing subwavelength metallic grating devices.
基金supported by NSFC Basic Science Center Program for“Multiscale Problems in Nonlinear Mechanics”(No.11988102)National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.12002344,11232011 and 11572331)+2 种基金The authors would like to acknowledge the support from China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2020M670478)the Strategic Priority Research Program(No.XDB22040104)the Key Research Program of Frontier Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No.QYZDJ-SSW-SYS002).
文摘Independent component analysis(ICA)is used to study the multiscale localised modes of streamwise velocity fluctuations in turbulent channel flows.ICA aims to decompose signals into independent modes,which may induce spatially localised objects.The height and size are defined to quantify the spatial position and extension of these ICA modes,respectively.In contrast to spatially extended proper orthogonal decomposition(POD)modes,ICA modes are typically localised in space,and the energy of some modes is distributed across the near-wall region.The sizes of ICA modes are multiscale and are approximately proportional to their heights.ICA modes can also help to reconstruct the statistics of turbulence,particularly the third-order moment of velocity fluctuations,which is related to the strongest Reynolds shear-stressproducing events.The results reported in this paper indicate that the ICA method may connect statistical descriptions and structural descriptions of turbulence.
基金Supported by SynMed UK related to this workDr.Koulaouzidis A has also received lecture honoraria from Dr Falk PharmaUnited kingdom
文摘In order to improve lesion localisation in small-bowel capsule endoscopy,a modified capsule design has been proposed incorporating localisation and-in theorystabilization capabilities.The proposed design consists of a capsule fitted with protruding wheels attached to a spring-mechanism.This would act as a miniature odometer,leading to more accurate lesion localization information in relation to the onset of the investigation(spring expansion e.g.,pyloric opening).Furthermore,this capsule could allow stabilization of the recorded video as any erratic,non-forward movement through the gut is minimised.Three-dimensional(3-D)printing technology was used to build a capsule prototype.Thereafter,miniature wheels were also 3-D printed and mounted on a spring which was attached to conventional capsule endoscopes for the purpose of this proof-of-concept experiment.In vitro and ex vivo experiments with porcine small-bowel are presented herein.Further experiments have been scheduled.
文摘BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant/perioperative chemotherapy is the recommended treatment for advanced stages of gastric cancer(>T2,N+)before tumour resection in many European guidelines.However,there is no consensus as to whether perioperative chemotherapy is as effective in distal as in proximal tumours,in addition to a relevant uncertainty concerning appropriate treatment modalities for elderly patients.AIM To investigate the role of perioperative chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer in patients from a German tertiary clinic with respect to efficacy,localisation,and age.METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 158 patients from our clinic with adenocarcinoma of the stomach or the gastroesophageal junction who underwent resection between 2008 and 2016.The data were evaluated particularly in relation to patient age,tumour site,and perioperative therapy.RESULTS Administration of perioperative chemotherapy did not lead to a significant survival advantage in our study population.The 5-year survival rates were 40%for patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and 29%for the group without perioperative chemotherapy(P=0.125).Our patients were on average distinctly older than patients in most of the published randomised controlled trials.Patients elder than 75 years received perioperative chemotherapy far less frequently.Patients with a proximal tumour received perioperative chemotherapy much more often.CONCLUSION This analysis reconfirms our previous data concerning the effectiveness of perioperative chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer.There is reasonable doubt that the quality of the existing randomized controlled trials is sufficient to generally justify perioperative chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer independent of tumour localization or age.
文摘AIM： To determine the role of scintigraphy in patients with gastrointestinal （GI） bleeding of unknown Iocalisation. METHODS： We performed retrospective analyses on 92 patients receiving scintigraphies from 1993 to 2000 in the University of Regensburg hospital, which were done for Iocalisation of GI bleeding as a diagnostic step after an unsuccessful endoscopy. In addition to the scintigraphies, further diagnostic steps such as endoscopy, angiography or operations were performed. In some of the scintigraphies with negative results, a provocation test for bleeding with heparinisation was carried out. RESULTS： 73% of all scintigraphies showed a positive result. In 4.5% of the positive results, the source was located in the stomach, in 37% the source was the small bowel, in 25% the source was the right colon, in 4.5% the source was the left colon, and in 20% no clear Iocalisation was possible. Only 4% of all scintigraphies were false positive. A reliable positive scintigraphy was independent of the age of the examined patient. A provocation test for bleeding with heparin resulted in an additional 46% of positive scintigraphies with a reliable Iocalisation in primary negative scintigraphies. CONCLUSION- Our results show that scintigraphy and scintigraphy with heparin provocation tests are reliable procedures. They enable a reliable Iocalisation in about half of the obscure GI-bleeding cases. Scintigraphy is superior to angiography in locating a bleeding. It is shown that even in the age of video capsule endoscopy and double-balloon enteroscopy, scintigraphy provides a reliable and directed localization of GI bleeding and offers carefully targeted guidance for other procedures.
文摘A novel radar-based system for longwall coal mine machine localisation is described. The system, based on a radar-ranging sensor and designed to localise mining equipment with respect to the mine tunnel gate road infrastructure, is developed and trialled in an underground coal mine. The challenges of reliable sensing in the mine environment are considered, and the use of a radar sensor for localisation is justified. The difficulties of achieving reliable positioning using only the radar sensor are examined. Several probabilistic data processing techniques are explored in order to estimate two key localisation parameters from a single radar signal, namely along-track position and across-track position, with respect to the gate road structures. For the case of across-track position, a conventional Kalman filter approach is sufficient to achieve a reliable estimate. However for along-track position estimation, specific infrastructure elements on the gate road rib-wall must be identified by a tracking algorithm. Due to complexities associated with this data processing problem, a novel visual analytics approach was explored in a 3D interactive display to facilitate identification of significant features for use in a classifier algorithm. Based on the classifier output, identified elements are used as location waypoints to provide a robust and accurate mining equipment localisation estimate.
基金the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and their financial support through the JSPS Fellowship Programme to conduct research activities at the University of Tokyo.
文摘To understand the deformational behaviours of geosynthetics-reinforced soil retaining walls(GRS RWs),a series of plane-strain shaking table tests was conducted on retaining wall models.The backfill of the models was made of poorly graded gravel.Deformations and strains in the gravelly backfill induced by seismic loading are recorded in real time,which are of importance to understand the seismic strength and stability of the GRS RW systems,as strain localisation development in the backfill and foundation is related to the degree of strength degradation of the system.In the present study,we aimed at quantifying the induced deformations of the GRS RW models due to shaking.Digital image correlation(DIC)technique was then employed to analyse and provide full-field deformation and motion images with the models.It is demonstrated that,unlike conventional contact devices that are yet limited to provide quantities of a singular and fixed location,DIC provides deformation and motion of the area of interests to reveal the evolution of localisation.
文摘Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.
文摘The profile equations of geometric optics are described in a form invariant under the natural transformations of first order systems of partial differential equations. This allows us to prove that various strategies for computing profile equations are equivalent. We prove that if L generates an evolution on L2 the same is true of the profile equations. We prove that the characteristic polynomial of the profile equations is the localization of the characteristic polynomial of the background operator at （y, dφ（y）） where φ is the background phase. We prove that the propagation cones of the profile equations are subsets of the propagation cones of the background operator.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos.10804050 and 10874086)the Ministry of Education of China (Grant Nos.20060284035 and 705017)
文摘We study via numerical experiments the localisation property of an acoustic wave in a viscoelastic soft medium containing randomly-distributed air bubbles. The behaviours of the oscillation phases of bubbles are particularly investigated in various cases for distinguishing efficiently the acoustic localisation from the effects of acoustic absorption caused by the viscosity of medium. The numerical results reveal the phenomenon of ＇phase transition＇ characterized by an unusual collective oscillation of bubbles, which is an effective criterion to unambiguously identify the acoustic localisation in the presence of viscosity. Within the localisation region, the phenomenon of phase transition persists, and a remarkable decrease in the fluctuation of the oscillation phases of bubbles is observed. The localisation phenomenon will be impaired by the enhancement of the viscosity factors, and the extent to which the acoustic wave is localised may be determined by appropriately analyzing the values of the oscillation phases or the amount of reduction of the phase fluctuation. The results are particularly significant for the practical experiments in an attempt to observe the acoustic localisation in such a medium, which is in general subjected to the interference of the great ambiguity resulting from the effect of acoustic absorption.
文摘The convergence of Internet of Things(IoT),vehicularad hoc network(VANET),and mobile ad hoc network relies on sensor networks to gather data from nodes or objects.These networks involve nodes,gateways,and anchors,operating on limited battery power,mainly used in broadcasting.IoT applications,like healthcare,smart cities,and transportation,often need position data and face challenges in delay sensitivity.Localisation is important in ITS and VANETs,influencing autonomous vehicles,collision warning systems,and road information dissemination.A robust localisation system,often combining GPS with techniques like Dead Reckoning and Image/Video Localisation,is essential for accuracy and security.Artificial intelligence(AI)integration,particularly in machine learning,enhances indoor wireless localisation effectiveness.Advancements in wireless communication(WSN,IoT,and massive MIMO)transform dense environments into programmable entities,but pose challenges in aligning self‐learning AI with sensor tech for accuracy and budget considerations.We seek original research on sensor localisation,fusion,protocols,and positioning algorithms,inviting contributions from industry and academia to address these evolving challenges.
文摘Deep repository in geological formations is the preferential solution considered in many countries to manage high-level nuclear wastes. In Switzerland, the Opalinus Clay is a candidate host rock. In this context, in situ and laboratory tests are conducted on Opalinus Clay to demonstrate the feasibility of deep disposal in this argillaceous formation. This paper presents a constitutive model able to fit the experimental data obtained from some triaxial tests conducted by Jahns(2013) on cores from borehole Schlattingen SLA-1. The elasto-plastic behaviour of Opalinus Clay is reproduced thanks to a DruckerPrager model, taking into account the anisotropy behaviour of this sedimentary rock. The objective is to employ a single set of parameters representative of the material. In a second version of the model, the stress-dependence of the elastic properties and damage are taken into account. Finally, the parameters calibrated with experimental tests are used to simulate the excavation of a gallery with a second gradient approach.
文摘The Dictyostelium discoideum AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) snfA subcellular localization was studied in AX2 and stable HPF strains by use of AMPK antipeptide antibody and goat anti-rabbit Alexa-Flour 488-conjugated IgG antibody. The AMPK exhibited cytosolic localization patterns and uniform focalised concentrations in wild type and the strains alike. Constitutive activation and attenuation of the α subunit expression did not affect subcellular distribution of AMPK. However, snfA expression was more intense in strains in which AMPK was constitutively active compared with the AX2 but lesser in attenuation strains. The localisation of the snfA reinforced the putative standing that it had a plethora of cytoplasmic functions. Moreover, the oxidative cellular function would require a ubiquitous system and might coordinately regulate responses to metabolic requirements. Furthermore, the developmental phases of the life cycle would support the cytosolic localization;and since organelles were potentially reorganized or removed entirely during the transition from vegetative living to fruiting body morphology. This study provided insight into the subcellular distribution of AMPK in Dictyostelium discoideum. We demonstrated that AMPK localization was steady in AX2 and derived strains whether constitutively active or anti-sense inhibited depicting extreme genetic states.
