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Short-term effects of irrigation and nitrogen management on paddy soil carbon pools under deep placement of basal fertilizer nitrogen. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11329. [PMID: 38760372 PMCID: PMC11101622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61931-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Active soil organic carbon (SOC) fractions are major driving factors of soil fertility. Understanding the effects of water and fertilizer management on changes in active SOC fractions helps improve soil quality and maintain high agricultural productivity. We conducted a 3-year field experiment in Northeast China. In this experiment, natural soil (CKT) was used as a blank, and two irrigation regimes were established: conventional flooded irrigation (FI) and controlled irrigation (CI). Four nitrogen application levels were set for both irrigation regimes under deep placement of basal fertilizer N: Nd0 (0 kg ha-1), Nd (110 kg ha-1), Nd1 (99 kg ha-1), and Nd2 (88 kg ha-1). After 3 years, at similar N fertilizer application rate, the rice yield, total organic carbon (TOC), and active SOC fraction content of CI were higher under CI than FI. The growth rate of rice yield was 3.8% - 8.63% under CI than FI. Under CI, the rice yield, active SOC fractions contents and carbon pool management index (CPMI) did not decrease with decreasing N application rate but instead reached the highest level in the CNd1 treatment. Overall, CI with Nd1 treatment appears to be the best practice for improving soil fertility and crop productivity in Northeast China.
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Recyclable, Malleable, and Strong Thermosets Enabled by Knoevenagel Adducts. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9920-9927. [PMID: 38557104 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Plastic recycling is critical for waste management and achieving a circular economy, but it entails difficult trade-offs between performance and recyclability. Here, we report a thermoset, poly(α-cyanocinnamate) (PCC), synthesized using Knoevenagel condensation between terephthalaldehyde (TPA) and a triarm cyanoacetate star, that tackles this difficulty by harnessing its intrinsically conjugated and dynamic chemical characteristics. PCCs exhibit extraordinary thermal and mechanical properties with a typical Tg of ∼178 °C, Young's modulus of 3.8 GPa, and tensile strength of 102 MPa, along with remarkable flexibility and dimensional and chemical stabilities. Furthermore, end-of-life PCCs can be selectively degraded and partially recycled back into one starting monomer TPA for a new production cycle or reprocessed through dynamic exchange aided by cyanoacetate chain-ends. This study lays the scientific groundwork for the design of robust and recyclable thermosets, with transformative potential in plastic engineering.
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Deshielding Anions Enable Solvation Chemistry Control of LiPF 6-Based Electrolyte toward Low-Temperature Lithium-Ion Batteries. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311327. [PMID: 38221508 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Severe capacity decay under subzero temperatures remains a significant challenge for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to the sluggish interfacial kinetics. Current efforts to mitigate this deteriorating interfacial behavior rely on high-solubility lithium salts (e.g., Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI), Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI))-based electrolytes to construct anion participated solvation structures. However, such electrolytes bring issues of corrosion on the current collector and increased costs. Herein, the most commonly used Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) instead, to establish a peculiar solvation structure with a high ratio of ion pairs and aggregates by introducing a deshielding NO3 - additive for low-temperature LIBs is utilized. The deshielding anion significantly reduces the energy barrier for interfacial behavior at low temperatures. Benefiting from this, the graphite (Gr) anode retains a high capacity of ≈72.3% at -20 °C, which is far superior to the 32.3% and 19.4% capacity retention of counterpart electrolytes. Moreover, the LiCoO2/Gr full cell exhibits a stable cycling performance of 100 cycles at -20 °C due to the inhibited lithium plating. This work heralds a new paradigm in LiPF6-based electrolyte design for LIBs operating at subzero temperatures.
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Enabling an Inorganic-Rich Interface via Cationic Surfactant for High-Performance Lithium Metal Batteries. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2024; 16:141. [PMID: 38436814 PMCID: PMC10912072 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01364-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
An anion-rich electric double layer (EDL) region is favorable for fabricating an inorganic-rich solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) towards stable lithium metal anode in ester electrolyte. Herein, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), a cationic surfactant, is adopted to draw more anions into EDL by ionic interactions that shield the repelling force on anions during lithium plating. In situ electrochemical surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy results combined with molecular dynamics simulations validate the enrichment of NO3-/FSI- anions in the EDL region due to the positively charged CTA+. In-depth analysis of SEI structure by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry results confirmed the formation of the inorganic-rich SEI, which helps improve the kinetics of Li+ transfer, lower the charge transfer activation energy, and homogenize Li deposition. As a result, the Li||Li symmetric cell in the designed electrolyte displays a prolongated cycling time from 500 to 1300 h compared to that in the blank electrolyte at 0.5 mA cm-2 with a capacity of 1 mAh cm-2. Moreover, Li||LiFePO4 and Li||LiCoO2 with a high cathode mass loading of > 10 mg cm-2 can be stably cycled over 180 cycles.
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Corrigendum to "Non-invasive prediction of p53 and Ki-67 labelling Indices and O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation status in adult patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type glioblastomas using diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic" [Clinic Radiol 77 (8) (2023) e576-e584]. Clin Radiol 2024; 79:e196. [PMID: 37940442 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
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Engineering FeCo Dual Sites on Tube-on-Plate Hollow Structure for Efficient Oxygen Electroreduction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:59454-59462. [PMID: 38102993 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c13941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Atomically dispersed single-atom catalysts are intriguing catalysts in the field of electrocatalysis for nearly 100% exploitation of metal atoms. However, they are still far from practical usage due to the scaling relationship limit and metal loading limit. Generation of a diatomic complex would offer superior catalytic performance through the cooperation of two neighboring atoms as active sites. Herein, Fe/Co dual atomic sites embedded in a tube-on-plate hollow structure are designed and fabricated for an efficient electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The unique structure composed of ultrathin nanotube building blocks dramatically maximizes the surface area for copious active site exposure. Thanks to the synergetic interaction between Fe/Co pairs, the obtained FeCo/NC exhibits outstanding ORR activity and stability in alkaline media. Furthermore, density functional theory calculations have revealed that the remarkable activity is attributed to the electron-deficient Fe sites in FeCoN6. This work may pave the way for the innovative design of highly dispersed dual-site catalysts for broader applications in the realm of electrochemical catalysis.
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Chloride-Free Electrolyte Based on Tetrabutylammonium Triflate Additive for Extended Anodic Stability in Magnesium Batteries. NANO LETTERS 2023. [PMID: 37992235 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c03740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) have been proposed as a promising alternative to currently commercialized lithium-ion batteries. However, Mg anode passivation in conventional electrolytes necessitates the use of highly corrosive Cl- ions in the electrolyte. Herein for the first time, we design a chloride-free electrolyte for RMBs with magnesium bis(hexamethyldisilazide) (Mg(HMDS)2) and magnesium triflate (Mg(OTf)2) as the main salts and tetrabutylammonium triflate (TBAOTf) as an additive. The TBAOTf additive improved the dissolution of Mg salts, consequently enhancing the charge-carrying species in the electrolyte. COMSOL studies further revealed desirable Mg growth in our modulated electrolyte, substantiated by homogeneous electric flux distribution across the electrolyte-electrode interface. Post-mortem chemical composition analysis uncovered a MgF2-rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) that facilitated exceptional Mg deposition/dissolution reversibility. Our study illustrates a highly promising strategy for synthesizing a corrosion-free and reversible Mg battery electrolyte with a widened anodic stability window of up to 4.43 V.
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Use of peripheral blood eosinophils to guide post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: a randomised, controlled trial. J Laryngol Otol 2023; 137:890-901. [PMID: 36444128 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215122002481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the utility of the eosinophil percentage in peripheral blood for guiding post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. METHODS Forty-four patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery and were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in the standard treatment group used oral and nasal spray glucocorticoids. In the biomarker treatment group, patients with peripheral blood eosinophil percentage values less than 3.05 per cent did not receive glucocorticoid treatment, whereas patients with values 3.05 per cent or above were part of the standard treatment group. Visual Analogue Scale, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 scores, endoscopic Lund-Kennedy scores, eosinophils, interleukin-5 and eosinophil cationic protein in peripheral blood, and nasal secretions were measured. RESULTS After functional endoscopic sinus surgery, the Visual Analogue Scale, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 and Lund-Kennedy scores were significantly reduced in both groups; there were no significant differences in those indicators between the groups during the three follow-up visits. CONCLUSION Peripheral blood eosinophil percentage offers a potential biomarker to guide post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
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Rejuvenation of aged graphite anodes from spent lithium-ion batteries via a facile surface treatment strategy. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023. [PMID: 37469328 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc02246c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we present a facile formic acid treatment to rejuvenate aged graphite anodes from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) without damaging the electrode structure. This method effectively removes the interfacial blocking layer, improving capacity and rate performance. Our approach contributes to sustainable battery recycling strategies for spent graphite anodes in LIBs.
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PLGA nanoparticle with Amomum longiligulare polysaccharide 1 increased the immunogenicity of infectious bursal disease virus VP2 protein. Br Poult Sci 2023; 64:176-184. [PMID: 36469700 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2022.2154639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
1. The purpose of this study was to create ALP1-VP2-PLGA nanoparticle (AVPN) and to study the immunogenicity of AVPN. AVPN was prepared and observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopies.2. Chickens were divided into five groups and vaccinated with normal saline, VP2 protein, ALP1 and VP2 protein, AVPN or PLGA, respectively. After 28 days, the immune organ indexes were calculated; specific antibody levels in blood were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, the spleen and bursa of Fabricius were determined by HE staining, immunological cytokine mRNA levels in bursa of Fabricius were detected by qPCR andchicken body weight was determined.3. The results indicated that AVPN was a spherical nanoparticle with a diameter of about 85 nm. It increased bursal indexes and IBDV-specific antibody levels and promoted the expression of IL-2 mRNA in blood and TNF-α and IgG mRNA in bursa of Fabricius. This promoted growth.4. This study suggested that AVPN can increase immunogenicity of VP2 protein, and it could possibly be used as an IBDV subunit vaccine.
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High-Performance NiS 2 Hollow Nanosphere Cathodes in Magnesium-Ion Batteries Enabled by Tunable Redox Chemistry. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:10184-10191. [PMID: 36475747 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c04293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Two-dimensional metal dichalcogenides have demonstrated outstanding potential as cathodes for magnesium-ion batteries. However, the limited capacity, poor cycling stability, and severe electrode pulverization, resulting from lack of void space for expansion, impede their further development. In this work, we report for the first time, nickel sulfide (NiS2) hollow nanospheres assembled with nanoparticles for use as cathode materials in magnesium-ion batteries. Notably, the nanospheres were prepared by a one-step solvothermal process in the absence of an additive. The results show that regulating the synergistic effect between the rich anions and hollow structure positively affects its electrochemical performance. Crystallographic and microstructural characterizations reveal the reversible anionic redox of S2-/(S2)2-, consistent with density functional theory results. Consequently, the optimized cathode (8-NiS2 hollow nanospheres) could deliver a large capacity of 301 mA h g-1 after 100 cycles at 50 mA g-1, supporting the promising practical application of NiS2 hollow nanospheres in magnesium-ion batteries.
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Clinical significance of extrathyroidal extension to major vessels in papillary thyroid carcinoma. J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 46:1155-1167. [PMID: 36427135 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01966-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gross extrathyroidal extension (gETE) into major vessel is considered the most advanced stage of the locally advanced papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Surgical intervention may not benefit some patients at this disease stage or even result in intraoperative death due to massive hemorrhage; however, it is still considered an effective strategy for most cases. The lack of description for this challenging invasion in PTC warrants detailed characterization of its pattern, risk factors, optimal surgical method, and prognostic value. METHODS In total, 3127 patients diagnosed as having PTC were enrolled and categorized into two the following groups, namely the major vessel invasion (MVI) group (n = 30) and the control group (n = 3097). Data regarding clinicopathological and demographic characteristics, vascular invasion sites, postoperative complications, locoregional recurrence, distant metastasis, and surgical strategies were collected. Predictive disease-free survival (DFS) was also compared between the two groups. RESULTS MVI was independently associated with invasion of the esophageal extension, age < 55 years, tumor size > 1 cm, lateral lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis (P = 0.00; P = 0.01; 0.05; P = 0.00; P = 0.00, respectively). The difference in the predictive DFS between the two groups was significant (P = 0.00), and the difference remained significant even in patients with ETE when compared with patients without ETE (P = 0.00). Additionally, predictive DFS did not differ significantly between patients who received vessel repairment and those who received vessel resection (P = 0.28). CONCLUSIONS This study first characterized the gross MVI pattern exhibited by PTC and the risk factors for MVI. Additionally, it demonstrated the DFS of patients with PTC. Extensive gross MVI significantly worsened the biological characteristics of PTC. Regardless of the high risk and difficulty of the operation, patients still benefited from the surgical intervention, and vessel repairment may be the optimal surgical strategy.
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Non-invasive prediction of p53 and Ki-67 labelling indices and O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation status in adult patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type glioblastomas using diffusion-weighted imaging and dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced perfusion-weighted imaging combined with conventional MRI. Clin Radiol 2022; 77:e576-e584. [PMID: 35469666 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM To assess whether conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and dynamic susceptibility contrast-enhanced perfusion-weighted imaging (DSC-PWI) could non-invasively predict p53 and Ki-67 labelling index (LI) and O-6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status in adult isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioblastomas. METHODS The conventional MRI, DWI, and DSC-PWI results of 120 adult patients with IDH wild-type glioblastomas were reviewed retrospectively and their efficacy was analysed using chi-square tests or Fisher's exact test. Relative minimum apparent diffusion coefficient (rADCmin) and relative maximum cerebral blood volume (rCBVmax) values were compared between glioblastomas with different molecular statuses using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and logistic regression were used to evaluate predictive performance. RESULTS Glioblastomas with a high p53 LI were more likely to show a well-defined enhancement margin (p=0.047). Glioblastomas in the high-Ki-67-LI group demonstrated significantly lower rADCmin (p<0.001) and higher rCBVmax (p=0.001) values than those in the low-Ki-67-LI group. Tumours without MGMT promoter methylation showed lower rADCmin (p<0.001) and higher rCBVmax (p<0.001) values than those with it. The rCBVmax value exhibited a greater efficacy in predicting the MGMT promoter methylation status of adult IDH wild-type glioblastomas than the rADCmin value (p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS The present results suggest that conventional and DWI and DSC-PWI results are influenced by the molecular status of the glioblastoma and indicate that DWI and DSC-PWI may help to identify regions of high invasiveness within heterogeneous glioblastomas.
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[Clinicopathological analysis of 8 cases of gonadoblastoma in children]. ZHONGHUA BING LI XUE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2022; 51:224-226. [PMID: 35249286 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112151-20210831-00631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
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Method for Zero-Waste Circular Economy Using Worms for Plastic Agriculture: Augmenting Polystyrene Consumption and Plant Growth. Methods Protoc 2021; 4:mps4020043. [PMID: 34205648 PMCID: PMC8293350 DOI: 10.3390/mps4020043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Polystyrene (PS) is one of the major plastics contributing to environmental pollution with its durability and resistance to natural biodegradation. Recent research showed that mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) and superworms (Zophobas morio) are naturally able to consume PS as a carbon food source and degrade them without observable toxic effects. In this study, we explored the effects of possible food additives and use of worm frass as potential plant fertilizers. We found that small amounts of sucrose and bran increased PS consumption and that the worm frass alone could support dragon fruit cacti (Hylocereus undatus) growth, with superworm frass in particular, supporting better growth and rooting than mealworm frass and control media over a fortnight. As known fish and poultry feed, these findings present worms as a natural solution to simultaneously tackle both the global plastic problem and urban farming issue in a zero-waste sustainable bioremediation cycle.
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Initial operation and data processing on a system for real-time evaluation of Thomson scattering signals on the Large Helical Device. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2021; 92:063523. [PMID: 34243539 DOI: 10.1063/5.0041507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A scalable system for real-time analysis of electron temperature and density based on signals from the Thomson scattering diagnostic, initially developed for and installed on the NSTX-U experiment, was recently adapted for the Large Helical Device and operated for the first time during plasma discharges. During its initial operation run, it routinely recorded and processed signals for four spatial points at the laser repetition rate of 30 Hz, well within the system's rated capability for 60 Hz. We present examples of data collected from this initial run and describe subsequent adaptations to the analysis code to improve the fidelity of the temperature calculations.
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147P Exosomes microRNA sequencing identifies miR-363-5p as non-invasive biomarker of axillary lymph node metastasis and prognosis in breast cancer. Ann Oncol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.08.268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Retirement planning: the perceptions of pre-retirement nurses within different hospitals in China. Int Nurs Rev 2019; 67:173-182. [PMID: 31773745 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study explored the perceptions of senior Chinese nurses working in different hospital types, about retirement planning; and compared the results from two hospitals. BACKGROUND A recent review indicates that nurses with inadequate retirement planning could be faced with a retirement crisis. In China, hospitals are classified into different levels, and salaries, job satisfaction and the turnover of nurses varies among these levels. These factors may also influence nurses' perceptions of retirement planning. METHODS In a descriptive, qualitative design, 27 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with nurses who were between 50 and 60 years old and recruited from two hospitals in China from April to September 2018. The interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically. FINDINGS Four main themes emerged from the interviews, namely, the understanding of pre-retirement nurses of retirement planning, the attitudes of pre-retirement nurses towards retirement planning, factors influencing nurses' retirement planning and the retirement planning activity of nurses. Most nurses participating in this study did not know much about retirement planning, but they all agreed on its importance. We identified the influencing factors of retirement planning and several differences regarding the perceptions of nurses about retirement planning in different hospitals. CONCLUSION In this cohort of nurses, planning for a good retirement was thought to be important; however, their readiness for retirement and the influences around planning for retirement were varied in type and scope. IMPLICATIONS FOR POLICY Governments and employing hospitals should develop reasonable measures and policies to support nurses in their understanding of the benefits of retirement planning and help them to prepare for retirement. Information about retirement planning should be made available and options for planning explained. Any systematic hurdles to retirement planning should be mitigated or eliminated.
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Wnt3 knockdown sensitizes human non-small cell type lung cancer (NSCLC) cells to cisplatin via regulating the cell proliferation and apoptosis. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2019; 22:1323-1332. [PMID: 29565490 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_201803_14474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aberrant activation of (Wingless and mouse homolog Int-1) Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways closely involved in the occurrence and progression of several types of human malignancies. This research was undertaken to elucidate the important role of (Wingless and mouse homolog Int-1) in lung cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Wnt3 expression in lung cancers and their respective normal tissues were examined by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Then, Wnt3 was regulated with RNA interference (RNAi) technology in human lung cancer A549 cells, and the cell proliferation, cell cycle, cell invasion/metastasis, and apoptosis were evaluated. RESULTS In all cases, Wnt3 expression was significantly elevated in lung cancers compared with normal tissues. Knocking down Wnt3 in A549 lung cancer cells by small interfering RNAs transfection led to a distinct reduction of Wnt3 in both transcript and protein levels. Knockdown of Wnt3 expression in lung cancer cells inhibited the expression of β-catenin and cyclin D1 genes in Wnt/β-catenin pathway. It also significantly blocked cellular proliferation, delayed cell cycle and suppressed cell invasion/metastasis, accompanied by a higher apoptosis rate. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the upregulation of Wnt3 plays a crucial role in lung tumorigenesis by inducing proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibiting apoptosis of cancer cells. Wnt3 might be a potential target for the treatment of lung cancer.
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Neck masses in children: a 10-year single-centre experience in Northwest China. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2019; 57:729-733. [PMID: 31266651 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neck masses in children are a common clinical concern but there is a paucity of published information about them. We organised this retrospective study to analyse their prevalence and treatment in Northwest China. The records of 207 children who presented with neck masses between 2008 and 2017 were retrieved from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, and age, sex, clinical presentation, preoperative investigation, surgical procedure, histopathological diagnosis, and complications were recorded. Their mean (range) age was 10 years (6 months to 21 years), and the male:female ratio was 1.23:1. In total 128 patients (62%) had congenital lesions, 35 (17%) had inflammatory lesions, and 44 (21%) had neoplastic lesions. The most common mass was a thyroglossal cyst (31%), followed by plunging ranula (17%) and lymphangioma (16%). Temporary injury to the facial nerve and wound infection were the major complications of surgical treatment. The types of neck masses in Northwest China differ from those previously reported, which may be attributed to genetic alterations in people of this race. The present report adds to the knowledge of diagnosis and treatment of neck masses in children in Northwest China, and brings out the demographic differences between races.
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Direct imaging of ultrafast lattice dynamics. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2019; 5:eaau8044. [PMID: 30873430 PMCID: PMC6408150 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aau8044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Under rapid high-temperature, high-pressure loading, lattices exhibit complex elastic-inelastic responses. The dynamics of these responses are challenging to measure experimentally because of high sample density and extremely small relevant spatial and temporal scales. Here, we use an x-ray free-electron laser providing simultaneous in situ direct imaging and x-ray diffraction to spatially resolve lattice dynamics of silicon under high-strain rate conditions. We present the first imaging of a new intermediate elastic feature modulating compression along the axis of applied stress, and we identify the structure, compression, and density behind each observed wave. The ultrafast probe x-rays enabled time-resolved characterization of the intermediate elastic feature, which is leveraged to constrain kinetic inhibition of the phase transformation between 2 and 4 ns. These results not only address long-standing questions about the response of silicon under extreme environments but also demonstrate the potential for ultrafast direct measurements to illuminate new lattice dynamics.
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Demonstration of a 120° hybrid based simplified coherent receiver on SOI for high speed PON applications. OPTICS EXPRESS 2018; 26:31222-31232. [PMID: 30650711 DOI: 10.1364/oe.26.031222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate the first simplified coherent receiver using a 120° hybrid on silicon-on-insulator (SOI) for high speed PON applications. This coherent receiver integrates an inverse taper edge coupler for the received signal, a vertical grating coupler for the local oscillator input, a polarization splitter and rotator (PSR), a 120° hybrid based on a 3×3 multimode interference (MMI) coupler, and three germanium photodetectors. We achieved 25 Gbit/s two-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-2) transmission over 30 km standard single mode fiber (SMF) in the C-band without any digital signal processing (DSP) (e.g., pre-emphasis, pulse shaping, equalization, nonlinearity compensation) and dispersion compensation (e.g., optical or digital) either at the transmitter or at the receiver. The requirements for frequency and phase locking of the local oscillator (LO) were avoided due to the use of intensity modulated signals. Receiver sensitivities of -23.70 dBm, -20.30 dBm, and -15.10 dBm are achieved at a bit error rate (BER) below the hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) threshold (i.e., 3.8 × 10-3) in back-to-back (B2B), after 21 km and 30 km, respectively. We also demonstrate 25 Gbit/s PAM-4 transmission achieving receiver sensitivities of -15.30 dBm, -13.90 dBm, and -9.50 dBm below the HD-FEC threshold in B2B, after 10.5 km and 21 km, respectively.
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MR Imaging Features of Anaplastic Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma Mimicking High-Grade Astrocytoma. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2018; 39:1446-1452. [PMID: 29903923 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, which has been recently defined as a distinct entity in the 2016 World Health Organization classification, may exhibit aggressive clinical behavior and relatively worse prognosis than pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. This study aimed to investigate whether there were any differences in MR imaging characteristics between these 2 tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective study included 9 patients with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and 10 patients with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma who underwent MR imaging before an operation. DWI was performed in 17 patients (8 with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, 9 with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma); and DSC-PWI, in 9 patients (5 with anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, 4 with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma). Demographics, conventional imaging characteristics (location, size, cystic degeneration, enhancement, peritumoral edema, and leptomeningeal contact), minimum relative ADC ratio, and maximum relative CBV ratio were evaluated between the anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma groups. RESULTS Anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma was more likely to demonstrate high-grade features than pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, including greater maximum tumor diameter (4.7 ± 0.6 cm versus 3.1 ± 1.1 cm, P = .001), more frequent heterogeneous contrast enhancement of solid portions (88.9% versus 20.0%, P = .01), more obvious peritumoral edema (2.3 ± 0.9 cm versus 1.0 ± 0.9 cm, P = .008), lower minimum relative ADC on DWI (1.0 ± 0.2 versus 1.5 ± 0.4, P = .008), and higher maximum relative CBV on DSC-PWI (2.6 ± 0.8 versus 1.6 ± 0.2, P = .036). CONCLUSIONS Anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas often have more aggressive MR imaging features mimicking high-grade astrocytomas than pleomorphic xanthoastrocytomas. DWI and DSC-PWI might be useful in the characterization and differentiation of anaplastic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma.
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Comparative proteomic analysis of ovaries from Huoyan geese between pre-laying and laying periods using an iTRAQ-based approach. Poult Sci 2018; 97:2170-2182. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
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Diagnostic accuracy of diffusion weighted imaging for differentiation of supratentorial pilocytic astrocytoma and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma. Neuroradiology 2018; 60:725-733. [PMID: 29797290 PMCID: PMC5996010 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-018-2036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Supratentorial pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) may mimic pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) on conventional MR imaging, and a differentiation is clinically important because of distinct recurrence rate and anaplastic transformation rate. The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic potential of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in differentiating supratentorial PA from PXA. Methods We retrospectively reviewed DWI and conventional MR imaging of 16 patients with supratentorial PA and 8 patients with PXA. Variables of mean ADC values (ADCmean) and minimum ADC values (ADCmin) were calculated from the ROIs containing the contrast-enhancing lesion on DWI. ADCmean values and ADCmin values were compared among all supratentorial PA and PXA as well as between the subgroup of lobar PA and PXA by using an unpaired Student’s t test. The optimum threshold, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were determined. Results Both ADCmean values (1542 ± 186 vs 1084 ± 201 × 10−6 mm2/s; P < 0.001) and ADCmin values (1355 ± 183 vs 988 ± 180 × 10−6 mm2/s; P < 0.001) were significantly higher in supratentorial PA compared with PXA. The ADCmean values and ADCmin values were also significantly higher in lobar PA than those in PXA. The ADCmean values were useful for differentiating supratentorial PA from PXA, with a threshold value of > 1189.8 × 10−6 mm2/s (sensitivity, 93.8%; specificity, 100%). The optimal threshold values of > 1189.8 × 10−6 mm2/s for ADCmean values provide sensitivity and specificity of 85.7 and 100%, respectively, for discriminating lobar PA from PXA. The optimum threshold value for ADCmin was > 1063.5 × 10−6 mm2/s. Conclusion DWI is helpful in characterization and differentiation of supratentorial PA from PXA. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00234-018-2036-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Liquid crystalline behaviour of self-assembled LAPONITE®/PLL-PEG nanocomposites. SOFT MATTER 2018; 14:2782-2788. [PMID: 29457811 DOI: 10.1039/c7sm01613a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic LAPONITE®-clay particles with platelet-like shape display strong aging when dispersed in aqueous solutions, preventing the latter from reaching their natural liquid-crystalline equilibrium state. Here we introduce a facile method that successfully prevents this aging behaviour and enables accessing the systems' liquid-crystal and crystalline phases. We graft the comb-like polymer PLL-PEG (poly(l-lysine)-g-poly(ethylene glycol)) onto the clay surfaces from solution, thereby screening the negative surface charges and thus ensuring steric stabilisation. We show zeta-sizer and rheology measurements, respectively, confirming complete steric coating and that aging of dilute samples is completely suppressed even after a year. Using evaporation as a means to concentrate the particles, we observe various liquid crystalline textures under a polarized optical microscope (POM). Upon sequential spreading and drying, we are also able to obtain transparent films with hierarchical architecture.
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Measurement of B_{s}^{0} and D_{s}^{-} Meson Lifetimes. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 119:101801. [PMID: 28949189 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.119.101801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We report on a measurement of the flavor-specific B_{s}^{0} lifetime and of the D_{s}^{-} lifetime using proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, collected by the LHCb experiment and corresponding to 3.0 fb^{-1} of integrated luminosity. Approximately 407 000 B_{s}^{0}→D_{s}^{(*)-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} decays are partially reconstructed in the K^{+}K^{-}π^{-}μ^{+} final state. The B_{s}^{0} and D_{s}^{-} natural widths are determined using, as a reference, kinematically similar B^{0}→D^{(*)-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} decays reconstructed in the same final state. The resulting differences between widths of B_{s}^{0} and B^{0} mesons and of D_{s}^{-} and D^{-} mesons are Δ_{Γ}(B)=-0.0115±0.0053(stat)±0.0041(syst) ps^{-1} and Δ_{Γ}(D)=1.0131±0.0117(stat)±0.0065(syst) ps^{-1}, respectively. Combined with the known B^{0} and D^{-} lifetimes, these yield the flavor-specific B_{s}^{0} lifetime, τ_{B_{s}^{0}}^{fs}=1.547±0.013(stat)±0.010(syst)±0.004(τ_{B}) ps and the D_{s}^{-} lifetime, τ_{D_{s}^{-}}=0.5064±0.0030(stat)±0.0017(syst)±0.0017(τ_{D}) ps. The last uncertainties originate from the limited knowledge of the B^{0} and D^{-} lifetimes. The results improve upon current determinations.
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Measurement of the CP Violation Parameter A_{Γ} in D^{0}→K^{+}K^{-} and D^{0}→π^{+}π^{-} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:261803. [PMID: 28707946 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.261803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Asymmetries in the time-dependent rates of D^{0}→K^{+}K^{-} and D^{0}→π^{+}π^{-} decays are measured in a pp collision data sample collected with the LHCb detector during LHC Run 1, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3 fb^{-1}. The asymmetries in effective decay widths between D^{0} and D[over ¯]^{0} decays, sensitive to indirect CP violation, are measured to be A_{Γ}(K^{+}K^{-})=(-0.30±0.32±0.10)×10^{-3} and A_{Γ}(π^{+}π^{-})=(0.46±0.58±0.12)×10^{-3}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. These measurements show no evidence for CP violation and improve on the precision of the previous best measurements by nearly a factor of two.
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Search for the Decays B_{s}^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-} and B^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-}. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:251802. [PMID: 28696756 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.251802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A search for the rare decays B_{s}^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-} and B^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-} is performed using proton-proton collision data collected with the LHCb detector. The data sample corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 3 fb^{-1} collected in 2011 and 2012. The τ leptons are reconstructed through the decay τ^{-}→π^{-}π^{+}π^{-}ν_{τ}. Assuming no contribution from B^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-} decays, an upper limit is set on the branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-})<6.8×10^{-3} at the 95% confidence level. If instead no contribution from B_{s}^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-} decays is assumed, the limit is B(B^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-})<2.1×10^{-3} at the 95% confidence level. These results correspond to the first direct limit on B(B_{s}^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-}) and the world's best limit on B(B^{0}→τ^{+}τ^{-}).
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Abstract
The production of J/ψ mesons in jets is studied in the forward region of proton-proton collisions using data collected with the LHCb detector at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. The fraction of the jet transverse momentum carried by the J/ψ meson, z(J/ψ)≡p_{T}(J/ψ)/p_{T}(jet), is measured using jets with p_{T}(jet)>20 GeV in the pseudorapidity range 2.5<η(jet)<4.0. The observed z(J/ψ) distribution for J/ψ mesons produced in b-hadron decays is consistent with expectations. However, the results for prompt J/ψ production do not agree with predictions based on fixed-order nonrelativistic QCD. This is the first measurement of the p_{T} fraction carried by prompt J/ψ mesons in jets at any experiment.
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Measurement of the B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} Branching Fraction and Effective Lifetime and Search for B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:191801. [PMID: 28548525 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.191801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A search for the rare decays B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} is performed at the LHCb experiment using data collected in pp collisions corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 4.4 fb^{-1}. An excess of B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} decays is observed with a significance of 7.8 standard deviations, representing the first observation of this decay in a single experiment. The branching fraction is measured to be B(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=(3.0±0.6_{-0.2}^{+0.3})×10^{-9}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. The first measurement of the B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} effective lifetime, τ(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=2.04±0.44±0.05 ps, is reported. No significant excess of B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} decays is found, and a 95% confidence level upper limit, B(B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<3.4×10^{-10}, is determined. All results are in agreement with the standard model expectations.
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Observation of Five New Narrow Ω_{c}^{0} States Decaying to Ξ_{c}^{+}K^{-}. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:182001. [PMID: 28524669 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.182001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The Ξ_{c}^{+}K^{-} mass spectrum is studied with a sample of pp collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.3 fb^{-1}, collected by the LHCb experiment. The Ξ_{c}^{+} is reconstructed in the decay mode pK^{-}π^{+}. Five new, narrow excited Ω_{c}^{0} states are observed: the Ω_{c}(3000)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3050)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3066)^{0}, Ω_{c}(3090)^{0}, and Ω_{c}(3119)^{0}. Measurements of their masses and widths are reported.
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Imaging at an x-ray absorption edge using free electron laser pulses for interface dynamics in high energy density systems. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2017; 88:053501. [PMID: 28571471 DOI: 10.1063/1.4982166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Tuning the energy of an x-ray probe to an absorption line or edge can provide material-specific measurements that are particularly useful for interfaces. Simulated hard x-ray images above the Fe K-edge are presented to examine ion diffusion across an interface between Fe2O3 and SiO2 aerogel foam materials. The simulations demonstrate the feasibility of such a technique for measurements of density scale lengths near the interface with submicron spatial resolution. A proof-of-principle experiment is designed and performed at the Linac coherent light source facility. Preliminary data show the change of the interface after shock compression and heating with simultaneous fluorescence spectra for temperature determination. The results provide the first demonstration of using x-ray imaging at an absorption edge as a diagnostic to detect ultrafast phenomena for interface physics in high-energy-density systems.
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Noninvasive Assessment of IDH Mutational Status in World Health Organization Grade II and III Astrocytomas Using DWI and DSC-PWI Combined with Conventional MR Imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2017; 38:1138-1144. [PMID: 28450436 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) has been shown to have both diagnostic and prognostic implications in gliomas. The purpose of this study was to examine whether DWI and DSC-PWI combined with conventional MR imaging could noninvasively predict IDH mutational status in World Health Organization grade II and III astrocytomas. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed DWI, DSC-PWI, and conventional MR imaging in 42 patients with World Health Organization grade II and III astrocytomas. Minimum ADC, relative ADC, and relative maximum CBV values were compared between IDH-mutant and wild-type tumors by using the Mann-Whitney U test. Receiver operating characteristic curve and logistic regression were used to assess their diagnostic performances. RESULTS Minimum ADC and relative ADC were significantly higher in IDH-mutated grade II and III astrocytomas than in IDH wild-type tumors (P < .05). Minimum ADC with the cutoff value of ≥1.01 × 10-3 mm2/s could differentiate the mutational status with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 76.9%, 82.6%, 91.2%, and 60.5%, respectively. The threshold value of <2.35 for relative maximum CBV in the prediction of IDH mutation provided a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 100.0%, 60.9%, 85.6%, and 100.0%, respectively. A combination of DWI, DSC-PWI, and conventional MR imaging for the identification of IDH mutations resulted in a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 92.3%, 91.3%, 96.1%, and 83.6%. CONCLUSIONS A combination of conventional MR imaging, DWI, and DSC-PWI techniques produces a high sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for predicting IDH mutations in grade II and III astrocytomas. The strategy of using advanced, semiquantitative MR imaging techniques may provide an important, noninvasive, surrogate marker that should be studied further in larger, prospective trials.
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Search for massive long-lived particles decaying semileptonically in the LHCb detector. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. C, PARTICLES AND FIELDS 2017; 77:224. [PMID: 28515664 PMCID: PMC5408995 DOI: 10.1140/epjc/s10052-017-4744-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A search is presented for massive long-lived particles decaying into a muon and two quarks. The dataset consists of proton-proton interactions at centre-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, corresponding to integrated luminosities of 1 and 2[Formula: see text], respectively. The analysis is performed assuming a set of production mechanisms with simple topologies, including the production of a Higgs-like particle decaying into two long-lived particles. The mass range from 20 to 80 [Formula: see text] and lifetimes from 5 to 100[Formula: see text] are explored. Results are also interpreted in terms of neutralino production in different R-Parity violating supersymmetric models, with masses in the 23-198 GeV/[Formula: see text] range. No excess above the background expectation is observed and upper limits are set on the production cross-section for various points in the parameter space of theoretical models.
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A study on natural recovery of tassel fertilization and doubling method in maize haploids. GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2017; 16:gmr-16-01-gmr.16019173. [PMID: 28340260 DOI: 10.4238/gmr16019173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Doubling method is the technical barriers in maize haploid breeding. It was very important to establish the independent intellectual property rights for doubling method. In this experiment, the maize haploid inducer, TG15, was used for producing maternal haploids. Also, haploids were obtained from two kinds of maternal genotypes involved in the experiment, including high-oil type and common type. Significant differences were observed among offspring of various genotypes in the recovery of haploid fertilization. In 21 hybrid offspring haploids, the average powder rate was 8.28%, and the seed setting rate was 4.98%. The experimental results showed that when the hybrids were treated with 0.08% colchicine, the average powder rate and seed setting rate of offspring haploids were 35.53 and 20.30%, respectively, which were significantly higher than the hybrids with natural recovery ability. This study primarily established the doubling method of haploids called "bud seedling method" in China which was very practicably in maize doubled haploid breeding.
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Observation of B_{c}^{+}→D^{0}K^{+} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:111803. [PMID: 28368647 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.111803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Using proton-proton collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.0 fb^{-1}, recorded by the LHCb detector at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, the B_{c}^{+}→D^{0}K^{+} decay is observed with a statistical significance of 5.1 standard deviations. By normalizing to B^{+}→D[over ¯]^{0}π^{+} decays, a measurement of the branching fraction multiplied by the production rates for B_{c}^{+} relative to B^{+} mesons in the LHCb acceptance is obtained, R_{D^{0}K}=(f_{c}/f_{u})×B(B_{c}^{+}→D^{0}K^{+})=(9.3_{-2.5}^{+2.8}±0.6)×10^{-7}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second is systematic. This decay is expected to proceed predominantly through weak annihilation and penguin amplitudes, and is the first B_{c}^{+} decay of this nature to be observed.
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Measurement of the phase difference between short- and long-distance amplitudes in the [Formula: see text] decay. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. C, PARTICLES AND FIELDS 2017; 77:161. [PMID: 28408857 PMCID: PMC5368951 DOI: 10.1140/epjc/s10052-017-4703-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
A measurement of the phase difference between the short- and long-distance contributions to the [Formula: see text] decay is performed by analysing the dimuon mass distribution. The analysis is based on pp collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3[Formula: see text] collected by the LHCb experiment in 2011 and 2012. The long-distance contribution to the [Formula: see text] decay is modelled as a sum of relativistic Breit-Wigner amplitudes representing different vector meson resonances decaying to muon pairs, each with their own magnitude and phase. The measured phases of the [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] resonances are such that the interference with the short-distance component in dimuon mass regions far from their pole masses is small. In addition, constraints are placed on the Wilson coefficients, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and the branching fraction of the short-distance component is measured.
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Observation of the Annihilation Decay Mode B^{0}→K^{+}K^{-}. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:081801. [PMID: 28282211 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.081801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A search for the B^{0}→K^{+}K^{-} decay is performed using pp-collision data collected by LHCb. The data set corresponds to integrated luminosities of 1.0 and 2.0 fb^{-1} at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, respectively. This decay is observed for the first time, with a significance of more than 5 standard deviations. The analysis also results in an improved measurement of the branching fraction for the B_{s}^{0}→π^{+}π^{-} decay. The measured branching fractions are B(B^{0}→K^{+}K^{-})=(7.80±1.27±0.81±0.21)×10^{-8} and B(B_{s}^{0}→π^{+}π^{-})=(6.91±0.54±0.63±0.19±0.40)×10^{-7}. The first uncertainty is statistical, the second is systematic, the third is due to the uncertainty on the B^{0}→K^{+}π^{-} branching fraction used as a normalization. For the B_{s}^{0} mode, the fourth accounts for the uncertainty on the ratio of the probabilities for b quarks to hadronize into B_{s}^{0} and B^{0} mesons.
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Observation of the Decay Ξ_{b}^{-}→pK^{-}K^{-}. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:071801. [PMID: 28256886 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.071801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Decays of the Ξ_{b}^{-} and Ω_{b}^{-} baryons to the charmless final states ph^{-}h^{'-}, where h^{(')} denotes a kaon or pion, are searched for with the LHCb detector. The analysis is based on a sample of proton-proton collision data collected at center-of-mass energies sqrt[s]=7 and 8 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3 fb^{-1}. The decay Ξ_{b}^{-}→pK^{-}K^{-} is observed with a significance of 8.7 standard deviations, and evidence at the level of 3.4 standard deviations is found for the Ξ_{b}^{-}→pK^{-}π^{-} decay. Results are reported, relative to the B^{-}→K^{+}K^{-}K^{-} normalization channel, for the products of branching fractions and b-hadron production fractions. The branching fractions of Ξ_{b}^{-}→pK^{-}π^{-} and Ξ_{b}^{-}→pπ^{-}π^{-} relative to Ξ_{b}^{-}→pK^{-}K^{-} decays are also measured.
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Observation of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] decays. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. C, PARTICLES AND FIELDS 2017; 77:72. [PMID: 28331428 PMCID: PMC5341203 DOI: 10.1140/epjc/s10052-017-4610-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The decays [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are observed for the first time using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.0 fb[Formula: see text], collected by the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at the centre-of-mass energies of 7 and 8[Formula: see text]. The branching fractions relative to that of [Formula: see text] are measured to be [Formula: see text]where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.
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Measurement of the b-Quark Production Cross Section in 7 and 13 TeV pp Collisions. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:052002. [PMID: 28211722 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.052002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Measurements of the cross section for producing b quarks in the reaction pp→bb[over ¯]X are reported in 7 and 13 TeV collisions at the LHC as a function of the pseudorapidity η in the range 2<η<5 covered by the acceptance of the LHCb experiment. The measurements are done using semileptonic decays of b-flavored hadrons decaying into a ground-state charmed hadron in association with a muon. The cross sections in the covered η range are 72.0±0.3±6.8 and 154.3±1.5±14.3 μb for 7 and 13 TeV. The ratio is 2.14±0.02±0.13, where the quoted uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. The agreement with theoretical expectation is good at 7 TeV, but differs somewhat at 13 TeV. The measured ratio of cross sections is larger at lower η than the model prediction.
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Ultrafast X-Ray Diffraction Studies of the Phase Transitions and Equation of State of Scandium Shock Compressed to 82 GPa. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:025501. [PMID: 28128621 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.025501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Using x-ray diffraction at the Linac Coherent Light Source x-ray free-electron laser, we have determined simultaneously and self-consistently the phase transitions and equation of state (EOS) of the lightest transition metal, scandium, under shock compression. On compression scandium undergoes a structural phase transition between 32 and 35 GPa to the same bcc structure seen at high temperatures at ambient pressures, and then a further transition at 46 GPa to the incommensurate host-guest polymorph found above 21 GPa in static compression at room temperature. Shock melting of the host-guest phase is observed between 53 and 72 GPa with the disappearance of Bragg scattering and the growth of a broad asymmetric diffraction peak from the high-density liquid.
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Observation of J/ψϕ Structures Consistent with Exotic States from Amplitude Analysis of B^{+}→J/ψϕK^{+} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:022003. [PMID: 28128595 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.022003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The first full amplitude analysis of B^{+}→J/ψϕK^{+} with J/ψ→μ^{+}μ^{-}, ϕ→K^{+}K^{-} decays is performed with a data sample of 3 fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected at sqrt[s]=7 and 8 TeV with the LHCb detector. The data cannot be described by a model that contains only excited kaon states decaying into ϕK^{+}, and four J/ψϕ structures are observed, each with significance over 5 standard deviations. The quantum numbers of these structures are determined with significance of at least 4 standard deviations. The lightest has mass consistent with, but width much larger than, previous measurements of the claimed X(4140) state.
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First Experimental Study of Photon Polarization in Radiative B_{s}^{0} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2017; 118:021801. [PMID: 28128619 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.118.021801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The polarization of photons produced in radiative B_{s}^{0} decays is studied for the first time. The data are recorded by the LHCb experiment in pp collisions corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3 fb^{-1} at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV. A time-dependent analysis of the B_{s}^{0}→ϕγ decay rate is conducted to determine the parameter A^{Δ}, which is related to the ratio of right- over left-handed photon polarization amplitudes in b→sγ transitions. A value of A^{Δ}=-0.98_{-0.52}^{+0.46}_{-0.20}^{+0.23} is measured. This result is consistent with the standard model prediction within 2 standard deviations.
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Measurement of CP Violation in B^{0}→D^{+}D^{-} Decays. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2016; 117:261801. [PMID: 28059544 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.117.261801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The CP violation observables S and C in the decay channel B^{0}→D^{+}D^{-} are determined from a sample of proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, collected by the LHCb experiment and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3 fb^{-1}. The observable S describes CP violation in the interference between mixing and the decay amplitude, and C parametrizes direct CP violation in the decay. The following values are obtained from a flavor-tagged, decay-time-dependent analysis: S=-0.54_{-0.16}^{+0.17}(stat)±0.05(syst), C=0.26_{-0.17}^{+0.18}(stat)±0.02(syst). These values provide evidence for CP violation at a significance level of 4.0 standard deviations. The phase shift due to higher-order standard model corrections is constrained to a small value of Δϕ=-0.16_{-0.21}^{+0.19} rad.
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Search for Higgs-like bosons decaying into long-lived exotic particles. THE EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL. C, PARTICLES AND FIELDS 2016; 76:664. [PMID: 28316499 PMCID: PMC5335594 DOI: 10.1140/epjc/s10052-016-4489-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A search is presented for massive long-lived particles, in the 20-60 [Formula: see text] mass range with lifetimes between 5 and 100 [Formula: see text]. The dataset used corresponds to 0.62[Formula: see text] of proton-proton collision data collected by the LHCb detector at [Formula: see text]. The particles are assumed to be pair-produced by the decay of a Higgs-like boson with mass between 80 and 140 [Formula: see text]. No excess above the background expectation is observed and limits are set on the production cross-section as a function of the long-lived particle mass and lifetime and of the Higgs-like boson mass.
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Search for Structure in the B_{s}^{0}π^{±} Invariant Mass Spectrum. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2016; 117:152003. [PMID: 27768360 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.117.152003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The B_{s}^{0}π^{±} invariant mass distribution is investigated in order to search for possible exotic meson states. The analysis is based on a data sample recorded with the LHCb detector corresponding to 3 fb^{-1} of pp collision data at sqrt[s]=7 and 8 TeV. No significant excess is found, and upper limits are set on the production rate of the claimed X(5568) state within the LHCb acceptance. Upper limits are also set as a function of the mass and width of a possible exotic meson decaying to the B_{s}^{0}π^{±} final state. The same limits also apply to a possible exotic meson decaying through the chain B_{s}^{*0}π^{±}, B_{s}^{*0}→B_{s}^{0}γ where the photon is excluded from the reconstructed decays.
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Measurement of the CP Asymmetry in B_{s}^{0}-B[over ¯]_{s}^{0} Mixing. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2016; 117:061803. [PMID: 27541460 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.117.061803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The CP asymmetry in the mixing of B_{s}^{0} and B[over ¯]_{s}^{0} mesons is measured in proton-proton collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.0 fb^{-1}, recorded by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV. Semileptonic B_{s}^{0} and B[over ¯]_{s}^{0} decays are studied in the inclusive mode D_{s}^{∓}μ^{±}ν[over (-)]_{μ}X with the D_{s}^{∓} mesons reconstructed in the K^{+}K^{-}π^{∓} final state. Correcting the observed charge asymmetry for detection and background effects, the CP asymmetry is found to be a_{sl}^{s}=(0.39±0.26±0.20)%, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. This is the most precise measurement of a_{sl}^{s} to date. It is consistent with the prediction from the standard model and will constrain new models of particle physics.
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