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Lie similarity transformations for unsteady flow in a thin film under the influence of internal heating and thermal radiation have been deduced earlier. These transformations have been employed to reduce the partial differential equations of the fluid flow and heat transfer to ordinary differential equations. Fluid velocity and temperature profiles were presented by constructing homotopic solutions for the obtained system of equations. Here we apply a general linear combination of all the Lie point symmetries associated with the equations describing the flow and heat transfer with internal heating and thermal radiation, to construct the general Lie similarity transformations. By applying these transformations to the flow, we map them to ordinary differential equations. The reduced system of differential equations contains the arbitrary constants used to construct the generalised Lie similarity transformations through the linear combination of all the Lie symmetries of the flow equations. Further, we determine analytic solutions using the homotopy analysis method for the reduced system of equations. We show that the presence of arbitrary constants in the reduced system of differential equations enables control of the deduced homotopic analytic solutions, i.e., these constants serve as control parameters. We illustrate the effects of these control parameters on the temperature profiles graphically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heat transfer phenomenon in the flow of non-Newtonian fluids is important in the manufacturing processes of plastic products, cooling systems polymer solutions and extrusion and injection phenomena, etc. The motivation behind this study is to explore the thermal aspects of Burger non-Newtonian fluids by applying exponential heat source–sink, mixed convection phenomenon and thermal radiation. The analysis was done for different values of fluid viscosity. The numerical methodology is based on the implementation of a variational iteration technique. It is concluded that consideration of variable fluid viscosity is important to improve the heat transfer phenomenon more precisely. It is seen that the temperature profile increases with exponential heat source parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a wide variety of mechanical and industrial applications, e.g., space cooling, nuclear reactor cooling, medicinal utilizations (magnetic drug targeting), energy generation, and heat conduction in tissues, the heat transfer phenomenon is involved. Fourier's law of heat conduction has been used as the foundation for predicting the heat transfer behavior in a variety of real-world contexts. This model's production of a parabolic energy expression, which means that an initial disturbance would immediately affect the system under investigation, is one of its main drawbacks. Therefore, numerous researchers worked on such problem to resolve this issue. At last, this problem was resolved by Cattaneo by adding relaxation time for heat flux in Fourier's law, which was defined as the time required to establish steady heat conduction once a temperature gradient is imposed. Christov offered a material invariant version of Cattaneo's model by taking into account the upper-connected derivative of the Oldroyd model. Nowadays, both models are combinedly known as the Cattaneo-Christov (CC) model. In this attempt, the mixed convective MHD Falkner-Skan Sutterby nanofluid flow is addressed towards a wedge surface in the presence of the variable external magnetic field. The CC model is incorporated instead of Fourier's law for the examination of heat transfer features in the energy expression. A two-phase nanofluid model is utilized for the implementation of nano-concept. The nonlinear system of equations is tackled through the bvp4c technique in the MATLAB software 2016. The influence of pertinent flow parameters is discussed and displayed through different sketches. Major and important results are summarized in the conclusion section. Furthermore, in both cases of wall-through flow (i.e., suction and injection effects), the porosity parameters increase the flow speed, and decrease the heat transport and the influence of drag forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depth estimation is an important part of the perception system in autonomous driving. Current studies often reconstruct dense depth maps from RGB images and sparse depth maps obtained from other sensors. However, existing methods often pay insufficient attention to latent semantic information. Considering the highly structured characteristics of driving scenes, we propose a dual-branch network to predict dense depth maps by fusing radar and RGB images. The driving scene is divided into three parts in the proposed architecture, each predicting a depth map, which is finally merged into one by implementing the fusion strategy in order to make full use of the potential semantic information in the driving scene. In addition, a variant L1 loss function is applied in the training phase, directing the network to focus more on those areas of interest when driving. Our proposed method is evaluated on the nuScenes dataset. Experiments demonstrate its effectiveness in comparison with previous state of the art methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the problem of scheduling n jobs on a single machine to minimize total completion time and maximum cost, simultaneously. Each job is associated with a positional deadline that indicates the largest ordinal number of this job in any feasible schedule. The jobs have agreeable release and processing times, meaning that jobs with larger release times also have larger processing times. The agreeability assumption is reasonable since both the single-criterion problems (without positional deadline constraints) of minimizing total completion time and maximum lateness on a single machine with arbitrary release and processing times are strongly NP-hard. An O (n 3) -time Pareto optimal algorithm is presented. The previously known algorithms only solve two special cases of the agreeability assumption: either the case of equal release times in O (n 4) time, or the case of equal processing times (without positional deadline constraints) in O (n 3) time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of chemical reaction and activation energy plays a vital role in the analysis of fluid dynamics and its thermal properties. The application of the flow of fluid is significantly considered in nuclear reactors, automobiles, manufacturing setups, electronic appliances etc. This study explores the impacts of activation energy and chemical reaction on the magnetohydrodynamic Darcy–Forchheimer squeezed Casson fluid flow through a porous material across the horizontal channel where the two parallel plates are assumed to be in motion. By using similarity variables, partial differential equations are converted to ordinary differential equations. Numerical method is applied using MATLAB to solve the problems and acquire the data for velocity field, thermal distribution, and concentration distribution. The graphs indicate that fluid velocity and temperature increases as the plates are brought closer. In addition, there was a correlation between a rise in the Hartmann number and a decrease in the fluid's velocity because of the existence of strong Lorentz forces. The temperature and the concentration of the liquid will increase due to the Brownian motion. When the Darcy–Forchheimer and activation energy parameters are both increased, the velocity and concentration decreases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the flow of ternary nanofluid is analysed past a stretching sheet subjected to Thomson and Troian slip condition along with the temperature jump. The ternary nanofluid is formed by suspending three different types of nanoparticles namely TiO 2 , Cu and Ag into water which acts as a base fluid and leads to the motion of nanoparticles. The high thermal conductivity and chemical stability of silver was the main cause for its suspension as the third nanoparticle into the hybrid nanofluid Cu-TiO 2 / H 2 O . Thus, forming the ternary nanofluid Ag-Cu-TiO 2 / H 2 O . The sheet is assumed to be vertically stretching where the gravitational force will have its impact in the form of free convection. Furthermore, the presence of radiation and heat source/sink is assumed so that the energy equation thus formed will be similar to most of the real life applications. The assumption mentioned here leads to the mathematical model framed using partial differential equations (PDE) which are further transformed to ordinary differential equations (ODE) using suitable similarity transformations. Thus, obtained system of equations is solved by incorporating the RKF-45 numerical technique. The results indicated that the increase in the suspension of silver nanoparticles enhanced the temperature and due to density, the velocity of the flow is reduced. The slip in the velocity decreased the flow speed while the temperature of the nanofluid was observed to be increasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the problem of scheduling jobs with delivery times and inclusive processing set restrictions on unbounded batch machines to minimize the maximum delivery completion time, which is equivalent to minimizing the maximum lateness from the optimization viewpoint. We develop a polynomial time approximation scheme for this strongly NP-hard problem that runs in linear time for any fixed accuracy requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New FWM design to compensate for the uncertainty caused by continuous and disruptive time delays. • Adapting the FWM method to the LMI in the form of an optimization problem. • Combined modeling of energy storage system with RES in large-scale power system. • Using state observer with FWM for better observability of closed-loop system poles in the design process. Due to the high penetration of renewable energy sources (RES) such as wind units in power systems, the need to check the stability of transmission networks has been given more attention than before. Therefore, in this paper, due to the importance of the topic, the wide area damping controller (WADC) has been used for the battery energy storage system (BESS) connected to the photovoltaic unit and the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) in the dc link. The WADC design is based on free weight matrices (FWM), which can solve a set of constraints based on the linear matrix inequality (LMI) based on the delay-dependent feedback control theory. The working method is that the constraints related to LMI are considered in such a way that it has the ability to tolerate the maximum amount of time delay. FWM has been used to communicate between LMI constraints and the maximum value of the time delay margin. FWM matrices are also based on an iterative algorithm based on linearization of the conical complement, which tries to search for the most optimal value for the control parameters. To implement the simulation results in MATLAB software, an improved power system of 16 machines has been used, the results of which are clearly analyzed and show the superiority of the proposed method compared to other mentioned methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel materials with high thermal conductivity are urgently needed to solve the problem of thermal diffusion with the rapid development of science and technology. Experiments have been conducted to join polydopamine (PDA) with graphene (G) and carbon fibers (CF) using electrophoresis to form a G/PDA@CF material with ultrahigh thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity has been improved by a factor of 6, which has ultrahigh thermally conductive properties. The composite doubled the tensile strength relative to the original material. Experiments were designed to test the thermal conductivity of G/PDA@CF. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses of the material were carried out to obtain the formation mechanism of G/PDA@CF. The SEM image shows that PDA and G formed a layered self-assembled structure on the CF surface. The XRD image shows the existence of G in G/PDA@CF. The XPS analysis obtained the bonding species between the G and PDA, CF and PDA. The phonon spectra were then calculated by microcanonical ensembles (NVE). The PDA has ultrahigh thermal conductivity due to the high overlap of its phonon spectrum with G, which leads to its high strength thermal conductivity of G/PDA@CF. G/PDA@CF material can be used for flexible screens, housings for wearable devices, and thermally conductive devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal and flow features of nanofluid are explored under the impact of an external magnetic field whereas fluid is flowing inside a vertical square duct. It is assumed that the sunlight tends to heat up the duct. Two fins are attached to the duct that receive sunlight of uniform intensity. Two walls of the duct contain a fixed temperature and, are exposed to the direct sunlight under the assumption of a particular thermal boundary condition and developed flow. The governing equations of the problem are solved by the finite volume method. The taller fins not only act as significant obstacles causing reduction in flow velocity and frictional losses but also contribute to enhanced the rate of heat transfer more extensively with the surfaces of fins. Higher Rayleigh number fosters buoyancy-driven natural convection, causing a change in the thermal signature and diminution in thermal distribution over the domain. The magnetic force also tends to impede thermal diffusion, thus hampering heat transfer within the flow. The pressure gradient and the nanoparticle volume fraction significantly reduce fRe. On the other hand, the fin height, Rayleigh number and the magnetic parameter cause an enhancement in the Nusselt number and fRe. Finally, introducing a modern perspective into the research approach, machine learning technique (Neural Fitting app) was incorporated to refine the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to present a thorough investigation into the impact of an external magnetic field on the flow and thermal properties of nanofluid within a vertically oriented square duct exposed to sunlight-induced heating. The duct incorporates two rectangular fins attached to one set of adjacent walls, receiving uniform sunlight intensity. In contrast, the other two walls feature a thin lubricant film which causes the fluid slip rather than adhesion. Assuming hydrodynamically and thermally developed laminar flow, the study employs a specific thermal boundary condition, enforcing a constant heat flux per unit axial length and a uniform peripheral temperature at the sun-exposed duct walls. Considering the balance between computational efficiency and solution accuracy, the finite volume method is employed to solve the governing partial differential equations. It has been observed that the magnetic parameter induces magnetic damping, resulting in a reduction in velocity distribution and qualitative alterations in flow patterns within the duct due to the heightened impact of the applied magnetic field. The presence of taller fins acts as significant obstacles which divert the flow and cause additional frictional losses, resulting in an overall reduction in flow speed. Elevated Rayleigh numbers amplify natural convection currents, producing a more pronounced change in velocity distribution while qualitatively transforming the thermal signature within the duct. Further, the slip parameter increases the overall velocity distribution while exerting a minimal impact on the thermal distribution, due to a reduction in resistance along the walls with lubrication, facilitating smoother fluid motion and leading to a more widespread velocity profile throughout the duct. Finally, to bring a contemporary perspective to the research methodology, modern techniques such as machine learning were integrated. The widely adopted Neural Fitting app was employed to enhance the precision of the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its unique technological characteristics, coal mining and production often encounter an acid corrosion environment caused by acid gases. Acid erosion and a series of chemical reactions caused by it often led to the deterioration of coal, rock, support structure, etc. and induced serious safety accidents. To further explore the macro-mesoscopic damage evolution law and failure mechanisms of rock masses under corrosion conditions through numerical simulation, a zonal refined numerical model that can reflect the acid corrosion characteristics of sandstone is established based on CT and digital image processing (DIP). The uniaxial compression test of corroded sandstone is simulated by ABAQUS software. Comparing the numerical simulation results with the physical experiment results, we found that the three-dimensional finite element model based on CT scanning technology can genuinely reflect sandstone's corrosion characteristic. The numerical simulation results of the stress-strain curve and macroscopic failure mode of the acid-corroded sandstone are in good agreement with the experimental results, which provides a useful method for further studying the damage evolution mechanism of the acid-corroded rock mass. Furthermore, the deformation and damage evolution law of the corroded sandstone under uniaxial compression is qualitatively analyzed based on the numerical simulation. The results show that the rock sample's axial displacement decreases gradually from top to bottom under the axial load, and the vertical variation is relatively uniform. In contrast, the rock sample's removal gradually increases with the increase of axial pressure, and the growth presents a certain degree of nonuniformity in the vertical. The acid-etched rock sample's damage starts from both the end and the middle; it first appears in the corroded area. Moreover, with the displacement load increase, it gradually develops and is merged in the middle of the rock sample and forms macroscopic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biocompatible and robust fiber surface plasmon resonance (SPR) temperature sensor was fabricated based on an alcohol-filled hollow-core fiber. The fabrication process of this designed sensor included Ag film coating, liquid injection, and fusion splicing, which was low cost and efficient. Due to the high refractive index sensitivity of the SPR effect and the high thermal optical coefficient of alcohol, the designed sensor performed well in temperature sensing, whose linear sensitivity reached as high as 1.16 nm/°C in the range of 35.5 °C–70.1 °C. Being small in size, low in fabrication cost, and highly sensitive in performance, this sensor is suitable for temperature detection during biological and chemical reactions and has the potential to realizing multiparameter or distributed temperature measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a dynamic combined-mode traffic network model considering transfer behaviors. We assume that travelers can be classified into two classes: one class is pure-mode travelers who complete a trip by single transportation mode, and another is combined-mode travelers who cover a journey by car, bus, and so forth. The multimode point queue model is used to model the interaction of cars and buses on the network. We present an integrated variational inequality formulation to capture the complex traveler choice behaviors such as departure time choices, transfer point, and route choices. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed heuristic algorithm and model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a dynamic combined-mode traffic network model considering transfer behaviors. We assume that travelers can be classified into two classes: one class is pure-mode travelers who complete a trip by single transportation mode, and another is combined-mode travelers who cover a journey by car, bus, and so forth. The multimode point queue model is used to model the interaction of cars and buses on the network. We present an integrated variational inequality formulation to capture the complex traveler choice behaviors such as departure time choices, transfer point, and route choices. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed heuristic algorithm and model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel curvature sensor was proposed based on a dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) that was spliced between two single-mode fibers (SMFs). The sensor sensitivity was investigated both analytically and experimentally, and the influence of the PCF length and temperature on the sensor performance was also analyzed. The results showed the sensor had different sensitivity with different bending direction and its highest sensitivity can reach 10.14 nm/m−1. It also showed great insensitivity to temperature interference. Being of simple structure and good mechanical strength, this curvature sensor has great application potential in various fields, such as architecture, machinery, robot, wearable sensor, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Xpert MTB/RIF assay is an automated molecular test that is designed to simultaneously detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) complex and rifampin resistance. However, there are relatively few studies on this method in China. Xpert has been routinely used at Peking University People's Hospital (PKUPH) since November 2016. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of Xpert, and provide a reference and guidance for the detection and diagnosis of TB in non-TB specialized hospitals.Methods: The medical records of inpatients simultaneously tested with Xpert, acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear microscopy, and interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA, by T-SPOT®.TB) at PKUPH from November 2016 to October 2018 were reviewed. Active TB cases were considered according to a composite reference standard (CRS). Then, the three methods were evaluated and compared.Results: In total, 787 patients simultaneously tested with Xpert, AFB, and IGRA were enrolled; among them 11.3% (89/787) were diagnosed and confirmed active pulmonary TB (PTB, 52 cases), extrapulmonary TB (EPTB, 17 cases), and tuberculous pleurisy (TP, 20 cases). The sensitivity of Xpert in detecting PTB, EPTB, and TP was 88.5, 76.5, and 15.0%, respectively, which was slightly lower than IGRA (96.2, 82.4, and 95.0%, respectively), but higher than AFB (36.5, 11.8, and 0%, respectively); IGRA showed the highest sensitivity, but its specificity (55.9, 67.1, and 45.2%, respectively) was significantly lower than Xpert (99.6, 99.4, and 100%, respectively) and AFB (99.0, 99.4, and 100%, respectively) (P < 0.001). The sensitivity of Xpert in detecting lung tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, lymph nodes, and joint fluid was 100%, followed by sputum (88.5%), alveolar lavage (85.7%), and bronchoscopy secretion (81.2%); the pleural fluid sensitivity was the lowest, only 15.0%. For AFB negative patients, the sensitivity of Xpert in detecting PTB, EPTB, and TP was 84.9, 73.3, and 15.0%, respectively.Conclusions: Xpert showed both high sensitivity and high specificity, and suggested its high value in TB diagnosis; however, the application of pleural fluid is still limited, and should be improved. Owing to the high sensitivity of IGRA, it is recommended for use as a supplementary test, especially for assisting in the diagnosis of TP and EPTB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protein expression levels of Ring finger protein 2 (RNF2) and phosphor-protein kinase B (P-AKT) were determined in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues, and the association between patient clinicopathological characteristics and survival time following definitive intensity-modulated radiotherapy was assessed. Cancerous biopsy tissues were collected from patients with ESCC at The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Hebei Medical University between January 2010 and December 2013. Of these 99 cases, 83 were used to analyze the protein expression level of RNF2 (89.2% positive), 85 for P-AKT (65.9% positive) and 80 for RNF2+P-AKT protein expression levels (62.5% both positive). The expression levels of RNF2 protein in ESCC were associated with tumor volume (P=0.024), whilst those of P-AKT and RNF2+PAKT were associated with sex (P=0.041 and P=0.003, respectively). There were no significant differences in overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS) rate between the RNF2− and the RNF2+-+++ groups (P=0.134 and P=0.366, respectively), or between the P-AKT− group and P-AKT+-+++ group (P=0.468; P=0.580, respectively). The 1-, 3- and 5-year OS rates were 68.0, 28.0, and 20.0%, and 86.7, 53.3, and 31.1%, in the RNF2/P-AKT+ group and Other group, respectively (χ2=4.205; P=0.040). Multivariate analysis revealed that age, T stage and RNF2+P-AKT expression were independent prognostic factors for ESCC (P=0.010, P=0.008 and P=0.010, respectively). The expression of RNF2+P-AKT combined was an independent prognostic factor affecting survival rate, and therefore presents a potential prognostic indicator for patients with ESCC, treated with definitive radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Application of a continuum damage mechanics formulation rests on the ease with which the material constants involved in the formulation can be determined. For an initially linear elastic material, the changes in elastic constants induced by damage depend on certain damage related material constants that are commonly determined by experiments in addition to those required to determine the initial properties. This additional experimental task can render the continuum damage mechanics theory less attractive. The present paper will only deal with those associated with damage representation. We propose here a procedure for analytically determining seven out of eight damage related material constants for unidirectional composites assumed initially transversely isotropic and containing a parallel array of matrix cracks along fibres. The remaining constant can be determined experimentally or by a numerical experiment proposed here for the purpose. The analytical expressions derived are in terms of initial elasticity constants of a unidirectional composite and are verified for their accuracy by numerical experiments. Since a unidirectional composite forms a building block in composite laminates, the results obtained here can be naturally used for damage in laminates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 28 days cured cement mortar samples were soaked in HCl (pH = 1 and 2) and H2O (pH = 7) solutions for 90 days. By monitoring the ion concentration of H+ and Ca2+ and measuring the changes in weight loss, longitudinal wave velocity, and uniaxial compressive strength values of the corroded mortar, the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the mortar specimens were studied. Experimental results indicate that the process of the mortar sample subjected to HCL erosion has apparent stage characteristics. In the initial stage of corrosion, the chemical reaction increased the porosity of the specimen, which leads to the decrease of longitudinal wave velocity of the samples. At the same time, the corrosion solution continuously penetrates into the mortar pore system, which leads to the increase of the mass, and it is considered that the diffusion process plays a leading role during this period. Moreover, the colloidal compounds generated by the chemical reaction can not only fill the pore space but also block the continuous reaction, which led to the increase of the longitudinal wave velocity of the specimen. With the prolonging of corrosion time and infiltration path, the pH value and the concentration of Ca2+ tend to be stable, the diffusion action is weakened, and the chemical reaction is continuous, which led to the decrease of the mass and wave velocity gradually. It is considered that the chemical reaction plays a leading role in this process. Based on the induction and analysis of the test results, a generalized porosity model regarding the increase of the porosity and the decrease of effective bearing area of the mortar sample was proposed. The relation between the uniaxial compressive strength and the corrosion time of the corroded mortar is deduced, and the unknown parameters are determined based on the regression analysis of the test data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In cross-ply laminates, the shape of delamination areas, which form due to low velocity impact, have two subtle features, which have been observed consistently in numerous experiments. Those are the pointed delamination tips and the intact zone between the lobes of delamination. However, there have not been any account available in the literature how they can be consistently captured through numerical modelling, and hence these features in published modelling results were often absent. It is the objective of this paper to identify the underlying modelling considerations so that these features can be captured with confidence. A key and unique reason has been identified in each case. Namely, inclusion of intra-laminar damage allows to reproduce the pointed delamination tips, while the gap between the lobes of delamination can be captured by models with sufficiently refined mesh, where friction between the laminas is taken into account. The capability of capturing these subtle features helps to raise the level of fidelity on the simulation of delamination due to impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the problem of scheduling n jobs on m parallel batching machines with nested processing set restrictions. Each job has a release time before which it cannot be processed, and has a restricted set of batching machines to which it can be assigned, called its processing set. Two distinct processing sets are either nested or disjoint. Each batching machine can process up to B ( B < n ) jobs simultaneously as a batch, where B is known as the batch capacity. The processing time of a batch is the maximum of the processing times of the jobs belonging to it. The objective is to minimize the makespan (maximum completion time) of the schedule. When all jobs are released at the same time, we present a fast algorithm with approximation ratio 3 − 1 / m . For the case of unequal release times, we develop a fast algorithm with approximation ratio 4 − 1 / m , as well as a polynomial time approximation scheme (PTAS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a fourth-order compact and energy conservative difference scheme for three-dimensional Rosenau-RLW equation is proposed. The scheme is a two-level and nonlinear-implicit scheme. It is proved by the discrete energy method that the compact scheme is solvable, the convergence and stability of the difference scheme is obtained, and its numerical convergence order is O ( τ 2 + h 4 ) in the L ∞ -norm. We discuss an iterative algorithm for solving the nonlinear algebraical system generated by the nonlinear compact scheme and prove its convergence. Numerical experiment results show that the theory is accurate and the method is efficient and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of scheduling jobs with delivery times on parallel machines is studied, where each job can only be processed on a specific subset of the machines called its processing set. Two distinct processing sets are either nested or disjoint; that is, they do not partially overlap. All jobs are available for processing at time 0. The goal is to minimize the time by which all jobs are delivered, which is equivalent to minimizing the maximum lateness from the optimization viewpoint. A list scheduling approach is analyzed and its approximation ratio of 2 is established. In addition, a polynomial time approximation scheme is derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Quantitative surface and Hirshfeld surface analysis of nicorandil molecules were studied. • Solubility data was analyzed by using extended Hildebrand solubility approach. • Preferential solvation were investigated via inverse Kirkwood–Buff integrals method. • Dissolution properties and enthalpy–entropy compensation were studied. The quantum-chemical quantities of highest negative surface electrostatic potential and lowest surface average local ionization energy as well as Hirshfeld surface were used herein to explain the electrostatic features of both basicity and acidity of nicorandil molecule. The primary electrophilic and nucleophilic sites are the -N and > NH groups, respectively. According to the nicorandil solubility in solutions of isopropanol (1) + water (2), ethanol (1) + water (2), DMF (1) + water (2), and methanol (1) + water (2), preferential solvation of nicorandil was investigated using the famous inverse Kirkwood-Buff integrals approach. In poor water composition areas, nicorandil was surrounded preferentially by organic solvent, showing the selective solvation of nicorandil by methanol/DMF/ethanol/isopropanol. This performance was due to high basicity of organic solvents compared with water, which favors interactions with nicorandil's acidic groups. The Hansen solubility parameter was used to evaluate the performance of nicorandil solubility in depth. The derived dissolution Gibbs energy change, enthalpy and entropy indicated that the solubilization capacity improved with increasing methanol/DMF/ethanol/isopropanol compositions. As the proportions of methanol/DMF/ethanol/isopropanol rose, analysis of enthalpy–entropy compensation revealed a shift in main dissolving mechanism from enthalpy-driven to entropy-driven (alcohol solutions) or from entropy-driven to enthalpy-driven (DMF solutions). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a cell-based multiple vehicle type dynamic user equilibrium model with physical queues. A single-type traffic flow model is extended to a general case with multiple vehicle types that can be partly solved by the time-space discretization method. Then, a network version of the multiple vehicle type cell transmission model is given. An integrated variational inequality (VI) formulation is presented to capture the complex traveler choice behaviors such as route and departure time choices. Furthermore, a genetic algorithm with a flow-swapping method is adopted to solve the VI problem. Two examples are used to evaluate the properties of this formulation. The results show that the model can reflect dynamic phenomena, such as multiple vehicle type speed consistent under congested conditions, queue formation and dissipation and so on. Moreover, the solutions can approximately follow the multiple vehicle type dynamic route and departure time user equilibrium conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper results from a reflection on the problem of finite rotations in plates and shells and its presentation in finite element formulation, a well-attended subject with a wide diversity of treatments, often extremely complicated. For instance, the very topic attracted 3 out of total 15 chapters over 120 out of total 494 pages in a monograph on nonlinear FEA [5] . In another instance, a 71 page journal paper was published [2] specifically on this topic alone. Review papers on this matter can be found in various sources including Appl Mech Rev, (e.g. Ibrahimbegovic, 1997 [8] ). No attempt is to be made on reviewing these sophisticated approaches but the present paper will bring answers to questions, if they have ever been asked, such as whether the sophistication in existing approaches is really necessary and whether there is a much simpler and conceptually more direct and accurate approach. A proper re-examination of the existing approaches would reveal a fundamental inconsistency: rigid body rotations have been assumed without reservation to describe the deformations of deformable plates and shells. After re-establishing the consistency based on the very basics of conventional plate and shell theories as a simple reflection, one can conclude surprisingly that the whole issue on ‘finite rotations’ results from a logic fallacy of faulty generalisation. The so-called ‘rotations’ should be displacement gradients instead. They can be considered as ‘rotations’ as conventionally perceived hitherto under the condition of small deformation. Somehow, the concept of ‘rotations’ got generalised regardless the magnitude of the deformation. Instead of calling the problem as ‘finite displacement gradients’ as it should be called, a falsely generalised term of ‘finite rotations’ have been used. Since they were called ‘rotations’, the definition of those of rigid body kinematics has been taken for granted. Finite displacement gradients should not present any additional problem apart from introducing nonlinear nature into the problem, which can be addressed as a geometrically nonlinear problem in a conventional manner. However, along the line of a falsely generalised concept of finite rigid body rotations, complications have been the norm. The complicated accounts on the ‘finite rotation’ problem in the literature, which might have enhanced the understanding of rigid body kinematics, are entirely unnecessary as far as the deformable plates and shells are concerned, involving infinitesimal or finite deformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous Fibre composite 3D printing (CF-3DP) technology is a newly developed Additive Manufacturing (AM) process. By employing continuous fibre as a reinforcement for the composite, the mechanical properties of the 3D printed part can be significantly improved. However, owing to the process's early stage of development, the mechanical performance of the printed material is still unable to compete with composites produced using conventional manufacturing processes. This can manly be attributed to lower fibre volume fractions and/or higher void content. The grand objective of the research project is to establish a demonstrator of practical applications, and in this paper, preparatory developments were carried out to pave the ground for the subsequent developments, including feedstock materials development, printing process development, and materials properties evaluation. Efforts has been made to increase fibre volume fracture, to reduce voids contents, to evaluate effective properties systematically. The static mechanical test results showed relatively good longitudinal tensile properties while matrix sensitive properties were low, as to be expected in UD composites with a relatively weak matrix material. The advantage of CF-3DP is to achieve fibre steering, and the steered fibre design can be achieved by the current process to realize novel composite structures in future study. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the silver mirror reaction was used to coat the silver film on the surface of self-made microstructured fiber (MSF) to stimulate the surface plasmon resonance effect, and Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a high thermal-optical coefficient was coated on the silver film as temperature-sensitive material. The MSF with silver and PDMS films was coupled with multi-mode fiber on both sides to form the temperature sensor. In this sensor system, the energy is coupled into the cladding of the microstructure fiber by multi-mode fiber, and the surface plasmon resonance can be further excitated in the MSF. When the temperature of the external environment changes, the refractive index of PDMS will also change. At this time, combined with the surface plasmon resonance effect, a resonant absorption peak corresponding to the temperature appears in the transmission spectrum so that the temperature can be measured quickly and accurately. We found that, in the temperature range of 35 °C to 95 °C, the average temperature sensitivity of the sensor during heating and cooling was −0.83 nm/°C and −0.84 nm/°C, respectively. The advantages of this sensor are the simple structure, convenient operation and good reversibility. The relative sensitivity deviation value (RSD = 0.0059) showed that the sensor has high stability. The temperature sensor based on MSF has favorable prospects for use in fields such as medical treatment, biochemical detection and intelligent monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, a high effective up-conversion luminescence agent (Er3+:Y3Al5O12) is synthesized by sol–gel method, and then its corresponding visible-light photocatalyst (Er3+:Y3Al5O12/Pt–TiO2) is successfully prepared by direct mixing and calcination methods. For comparison, Er3+:Y3Al5O12, Pt–TiO2 and Er3+:Y3Al5O12/Pt–TiO2 are all characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). At first, the up-conversion luminescence properties of Er3+:Y3Al5O12 are reviewed by excitation spectrum in visible-light region and emission spectrum in ultraviolet-light region. And then, under visible-light irradiation the visible-light photocatalytic activity of Er3+:Y3Al5O12/Pt–TiO2 is examined through photocatalytic hydrogen production from aqueous methanol solution. Lastly, the influence factors such as Er3+:Y3Al5O12 and Pt–TiO2 mole ratio, heat-treated temperature and heat-treated time on the visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production activity of Er3+:Y3Al5O12/Pt–TiO2 are studied. Particularly, Er3+:Y3Al5O12/Pt–TiO2 with 6:100 M ratio heat-treated at 550 °C for 90 min shows the highest photocatalytic activity in hydrogen production from aqueous methanol solution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Systematical studies of post-collisional igneous rocks in the Dabie orogen suggest that the thickened mafic lower crust of the orogen was partially melted to form low-Mg # adakitic rocks at 143-131 Ma. Delamination and foundering of the thickened mafic lower crust occurred at 130 Ma, which caused the mantle upwelling and following mafic and granitic magmatic intrusions. Migmatite in the North Dabie zone, coeval with the formation of low-Mg # adakitic intrusions in the Dabie orogen, was formed by partial melting of exhumed ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic rocks at middle crustal level. This paper argues that the partial melting of thickened lower and middle crust before mountain-root collapse needs lithospheric thinning. Based on the geothermal gradient of 6.6°C/km for lithospheric mantle and initial partial melting temperature of ∼1000°C for the lower mafic crust, it can be estimated that the thickness of lithospheric mantle beneath thickened lower crust has been thinned to <45 km when the thickened lower crust was melting. Thus, a two-stage model for mountain-root removal is proposed. First, the lithospheric mantle keel was partially removal by mantle convection at 145 Ma. Loss of the lower lithosphere would increase heat flow into the base of the crust and would cause middle-lower crustal melting. Second, partial melting of the thickened lower crust has weakened the lower crust and increased its gravity instability, thus triggering delamination and foundering of the thickened mafic lower crust or mountain-root collapse. Therefore, convective removal and delamination of the thickened lower crust as two mechanisms of lithospheric thinning are related to causality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, three-dimensional printing (3DP) technology has developed to include composite materials. Most of the development to date in this area has involved particulate or short fibre reinforced composites, whilst continuous fibre printing remains a relatively novel research area. This review paper focuses on the state-of-the-art of continuous fibre reinforced 3DP technology (CF-3DP). The materials and devices being used in the current studies are reviewed, and the different processing methods are discussed in detail. A thorough summary of the mechanical properties is provided. Despite improvements compared to 3D printed pure plastics, the performance of current continuous fibre 3D printed composites are not yet in a position to compete with conventionally processed composites due to defects and low fibre volume fraction. Finally, an overview of current potential applications are presented. However, challenges still remain in materials and process development. New design, modelling and analysis methods are needed before these novel composite structures can find their optimal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multiple-vehicle type reactive dynamic user equilibrium model with physical queues is presented. The single-vehicle type cumulative flow given by Newell is extended into multiple-vehicle types. The flow conditions for multiple-vehicle types on link can be divided into two classes: Class 1 is a congested condition – various types of vehicles cannot overtake; Class 2 is an uncongested condition – each type of vehicles can run according to each type of free-flow velocity. Further, multiple-vehicle type reactive dynamic user equilibrium condition is described. Finally, one iterative algorithm is proposed, and the results show that the model can demonstrate multiple-vehicle type physical queue conditions among the links and multiple-vehicle type reactive dynamic user equilibrium condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deciphering the genetic basis underlying agronomic traits is of importance for soybean improvement. However, covariation, modulated by genetic correlations between complicated traits via hub QTLs, commonly affects the efficiency and accuracy of soybean improvement. The goals of soybean improvement have nearly all focused on agronomic traits, including yield, plant type traits, and seed-related traits especially. To decipher the hub QTLs of yield, plant type, and seed, nine pertinent traits of an F2 population (181 plants) derived from a cross between KeXin No.03 and JiDou 17, which were different in multiple traits such as plant height, seed protein, and 100-seed weight, were investigated with a high-density genetic map covering 2708.63 cM. A highly significant negative phenotypic correlation (−0.95) was found between seed protein (Pro) and seed oil (Oil). A total of 35 final QTLs after combining the ones closely linked physically were identified for eight traits explaining from 0.10% to 24.63% of the phenotypic variance explained (PVE) using composite interval mapping (CIM) and inclusive composite interval mapping (ICIM) procedures, and 13 QTLs were novel genes. A genomic region on chromosome 14 (qPro14, qOil14.2, and qSw14) was associated with three seed-related traits based on the relationship within and among the three trait modules. In addition, four genomic regions were detected as hub QTLs which linked to the seed-related module and plant-type model, including the E loci (E1 and E2). From the QTL results, 31 candidate genes were annotated, including the verified genes E1, E2, and QNE1, and they were grouped into three categories of biological processes. These results illustrate the genetic architecture as correlations among various soybean traits, and the hub QTLs should provide insights into the genetic improvement of complex traits in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The analyses of cracked laminates based on a variational principle and related approaches are appraised in this paper. The limitations of the existing methodology on the analyses of more general laminate configurations have been identified. It has been revealed that the limiting factor is the lack of boundary conditions for uncracked laminae. Natural boundary conditions have then been derived from the variational principle to meet the need. Such boundary conditions are mathematically sound but cannot be simply interpreted from the physical construction of the problem intuitively. A well posed boundary value problem has thus been formulated for laminates containing however many cracked and uncracked laminae. Appropriate mathematical tools can then be employed to solve the boundary value problem. The capability of analysing cracked laminates has been enhanced significantly, as a result. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The most important aspect of formulating unit cells for micromechanical analysis of materials of patterned microstructures is the derivation of appropriate boundary conditions for them. There is lack of a comprehensive account on the derivation of boundary conditions in the literature, while the use of unit cells in micromechanical analyses is on an increasing trend. This paper is devoted to the generation of such an account, where boundary conditions are derived entirely based on considerations of symmetries which are present in the microstructure. The implications of the boundary conditions used for a unit cell are not always clear and therefore have been discussed. It has been demonstrated that unit cells of the same appearance but subject to boundary conditions derived based on different symmetry considerations may behave rather differently. One of the objectives of the paper is to inform users of unit cells that to introduce a unit cell one needs not only mechanically correct boundary conditions but also a clear sense of the microstructure under consideration. Otherwise the results of such analyses could mislead. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We consider the problem of scheduling n jobs on m identical parallel batching machines. Each job is characterized by a release time and a processing time. Each machine can process up to B jobs as a batch simultaneously. The processing time of a batch is equal to the largest processing time among all jobs in the batch. The objective is to minimize the maximum completion time (makespan). We present a polynomial time approximation scheme (PTAS) for this problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The ca. 400-km-long granitoid belt in the South Qinling is believed to be a synorogenic product of the collision between the North and South China Blocks along the Qinling-Dabie orogenic belt in central China. Single and multigrain zircon U-Pb dating of six of these granitoid bodies indicate that the granitoids were formed between 220 plusmn; 1 and 205 ± 1 Ma, supporting the idea that the collision between the North and South China Blocks happened in the Triassic. The formation of these synorogenic granitoids in the South Qinling is similar in time but slightly later than the rapid exhumation of the ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic rocks and their country rocks in the eastern part of the Qinling-Dabie orogen, suggesting a close relationship between the rapid exhumation of the ultrahighpressure metamorphic rocks in the Dabie Mountains and the formation of the South Qinling granitoids. According to regional geology, the breakoff of a subducted slab, if there was any, should have occurred at a shallower depth in the South Qinling compared with that in the Dabie Mountains and Sulu terrane. This shallow breakoff is likely to have disturbed the asthenosphere seriously, leading to the melting of the overlaying lithosphere as well as the formation of the granitoid belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traffic accidents due to fatigue account for a large proportion of road fatalities. Based on simulated driving experiments with drivers recruited from college students, this paper investigates the use of heart rate variability (HRV) features to detect driver fatigue while considering sex differences. Sex-independent and sex-specific differences in HRV features between alert and fatigued states derived from 2 min electrocardiogram (ECG) signals were determined. Then, decision trees were used for driver fatigue detection using the HRV features of either all subjects or those of only males or females. Nineteen, eighteen, and thirteen HRV features were significantly different (Mann–Whitney U test, p < 0.01) between the two mental states for all subjects, males, and females, respectively. The fatigue detection models for all subjects, males, and females achieved classification accuracies of 86.3%, 94.8%, and 92.0%, respectively. In conclusion, sex differences in HRV features between drivers' mental states were found according to both the statistical analysis and classification results. By considering sex differences, precise HRV feature-based driver fatigue detection systems can be developed. Moreover, in contrast to conventional methods using HRV features from 5 min ECG signals, our method uses HRV features from 2 min ECG signals, thus enabling more rapid driver fatigue detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Radiotherapy (RT) has been identified as a vital treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), while the development of radioresistance remains a major obstacle in ESCC management. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of NIMA-related kinase 2 (NEK2) on radioresistance in ESCC cells and to reveal potential molecular mechanisms. Methods: Human esophageal epithelial cells (HEEC) and human ESCC cell lines were obtained from the Research Center of the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University (Shijiazhuang, China). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry assays were applied to assess the proliferation ability, cell cycle, apoptosis rates, and ROS production of ESCC cells. The colony-forming assay was used to estimate the effect of NEK2 on radiosensitivity. Autophagy was investigated by western blotting analysis, GFP-mRFP-LC3 fluorescence assay, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: In the present study, our results showed that NEK2 was associated with radioresistance, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, ROS production, and survival of ESCC. NEK2 knockdown could significantly inhibit growth while enhancing radiosensitivity and ROS production in ESCC cells. Interestingly, NEK2 knockdown inhibited ESCC cell autophagy and reduced autophagic flux, ultimately reversing NEK2-induced radioresistance. Mechanistically, NEK2 bound to and regulated the stability of tripartite motif-containing protein 21 (TRIM21). The accumulation of NEK2-induced light chain 3 beta 2 (LC3B II) can be reversed by the knockdown of TRIM21. Conclusion: These results demonstrated that NEK2 activated autophagy through TRIM21, which may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for elucidating NEK2-mediated radioresistance in ESCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This note derives systematically the expressions of the stiffnesses and rigidities of one-dimensional laminates. Various forms are obtained as a result of different assumptions introduced. Each form is applicable only when the assumptions are reasonably satisfied. While a complete account on this is not available, misleading applications can be found in the literature. It is the purpose of this note to bring a complete understanding of the problem so that different forms of the rigidities of one-dimensional laminates can be used correctly according to the practical service conditions of the components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outgassing of carbon dioxide from the Earth's interior regulates the surface climate through deep time. Here we examine the role of cratonic destruction in mantle CO2 outgassing via collating and presenting new data for Paleozoic kimberlites, Mesozoic basaltic rocks and their mantle xenoliths from the eastern North China Craton (NCC), which underwent extensive destruction in the early Cretaceous. High Ca/Al and low Ti/Eu and δ 26Mg are widely observed in lamprophyres and mantle xenoliths, which demonstrates that the cratonic lithospheric mantle (CLM) was pervasively metasomatized by recycled carbonates. Raman analysis of bubble-bearing melt inclusions shows that redox melting of the C-rich CLM produced carbonated silicate melts with high CO2 content. The enormous quantities of CO2 in these magmas, together with substantial CO2 degassing from the carbonated melt–CLM reaction and crustal heating, indicate that destruction of the eastern NCC resulted in rapid and extensive mantle CO2 emission, which partly contributed to the early Cretaceous greenhouse climate episode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new composite, (MoSe 2 -RGO)/(Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 /ZnS)/RuO 2 , as photocatalytic material was assembled by depositing conduction band co-catalyst (MoSe 2 -RGO) and valence band co-catalyst (RuO 2) on ZnS nanocatalyst and adding a visible-ultraviolet up-conversion luminescence agent (Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12). The visible-light photocatalytic activity was evaluated via photocatalytic hydrogen evolution in Na 2 S and Na 2 SO 3 aqueous solution under 300 W xenon lamp irradiation. The results show that the prepared (MoSe 2 -RGO)/(Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 /ZnS)/RuO 2 photocatalyst exhibited significantly enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen production activity under visible-light irradiation. • MoSe2-RGO and RuO2 as co-catalysts are used to enhance ZnS photocatalytic activity. • Er:YAG provides UV light to satisfy the demand of ZnS for effective H2 evolution. • Improved ZnS can effectively perform visible light photocatalytic H2 production. • (MoSe2-RGO)/(Er3+:Y3Al5O12/ZnS)/RuO2 shows excellent recyclability for four cycles. The use of co-catalysts can observably enhance photocatalytic hydrogen production activity. In this work, a novel visible-light driven photocatalyst, (MoSe 2 -RGO)/(Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 /ZnS)/RuO 2 nanocomposite, is prepared for the first time by loading Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 , MoSe 2 -RGO and RuO 2 on the surface of ZnS nanoparticles. Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 as an effective visible-to-ultraviolet up-conversion luminescence agent can provide the ultraviolet-light to activate wide band-gap ZnS. MoSe 2 -RGO and RuO 2 , acting as conduction band co-catalyst and valence band co-catalyst, respectively, can effectively separate the photo-generated carriers and supply more reactive sites. The activities of the photocatalysts were assessed via photocatalytic hydrogen production in Na 2 S and Na 2 SO 3 aqueous solution under 300 W xenon lamp irradiation. In addition, the visible-light irradiation time and used times of the prepared samples as influence factors on the photocatalytic hydrogen production were also investigated. It was easily found that the prepared (MoSe 2 -RGO)/(Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 /ZnS)/RuO 2 nanocomposite shows fairly high activity in photocatalytic hydrogen production, compared with single ZnS photocatalyst. It was mainly attributed to the excellent up-conversion luminescence property of Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 and the efficient separation of photo-generated electrons and holes caused by MoSe 2 -RGO and RuO 2. This research may pave an effective way for photocatalytic hydrogen production utilizing solar light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst was successfully prepared. • NaNbO 3 , Au and Sn 3 O 4 form an ideal Z-scheme photocatalytic system. • The Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst displays an excellent photocatalytic activity. • The NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 exhibits wonderful recyclability and sustainability for four times cycles. • The photocatalytic degradation pathways and mechanism of carbofuran were put forward. It is first reported that an all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 nanocomposite photocatalyst can be prepared by ultrasonic dispersion and calcination methods. In NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 , NaNbO 3 and Sn 3 O 4 form a Z-scheme photocatalytic system, Au as an electron transfer channel accelerates the flow rate of the photo-induced electrons. Their effective combination can not only improve the utilization ratio of sunlight but also achieve the effective segregation of photo-induced electron-hole pairs. The fabricated samples were characterized by XRD, Raman spectra, SEM, TEM, UV–vis DRS, XPS and PL. In addition, the activity of the NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst was researched via the photocatalytic degradation of carbofuran in wastewater under sunlight irradiation. The sunlight illumination time, NaNbO 3 and Sn 3 O 4 mole ratio, cycle number and pesticides types as influence factors on the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst are investigated in detail. The possible mechanism and degradation pathways for the photocatalytic degradation of carbofuran caused by Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst under sunlight irradiation are put forward. The research results show that the all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst displays a wonderful activity for degradation of carbofuran in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new luminance detection method using tunnel video monitoring systems is proposed. The method can efficiently obtain the continuous surface luminance parameters of the large detection area in tunnels. Firstly, the stability and uniformity of the cameras in a tunnel video monitoring system are calibrated. Then, a new detection method can be mainly divided into the following parts: video image stability and uniformity detection, image geometric distortion correction detection, background initialization, luminance function fitting, pixels and blocks luminance extraction, luminance uniformity detection and so on. Finally, the surface luminance and total luminance parameters can be calculated in tunnels. The experimental results show that the method achieves a high accuracy in two different conditions. • The method of tunnel luminance detection from point to area is proposed. • Total luminance uniformity and center line luminance uniformity are proposed. • Avoiding the influence from running vehicles • Realizing continuous tunnel area luminance detection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study is to experimentally study the effects of different curing temperatures (25, 50 and 75 °C) and pressures (5, 10 and 15 MPa) on the mechanical properties and damage deterioration mechanism of sandstone samples subjected to pH3 H 2 SO 4. The responses of mass loss, aperture structure based on NMR, deformation behaviour and mechanical parameters of sandstone were compared and analyzed. The microstructure change in sandstone samples was observed and analyzed with SEM-EDS. The deterioration mechanism of sandstone after treatment with acid-temperature-pressure (ATP) was discussed considering pH and ion concentration in acidic solution. The results indicated that mass, uniaxial compressive strength and elastic modulus of the samples decreased and sandstone sample porosity as well as pH and ion concentration of corrosion solution increased after treatment with APT. Under the same conditions, increasing curing temperature had apparent deterioration effect on acid-corroded sandstone, yet increasing pressure had little effect on it, especially the pressure increased from 10 MPa to 15 MPa. The results of SEM and electron spectroscopy showed that the microstructure, defects and mineral content of sandstone changed after treatment with ATP. The secondary pores increased and the surface structures became loose. The chemical reactions between sandstone samples and acidic solutions with different curing temperatures and pressures as well as the damage mechanism underlying the interaction were discussed in the theoretical context of chemical kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]