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To produce high performance low carbon MgO–C refractories, the combustion synthesized MgO nanofibers containing C/MgO composite powders (SCM) were introduced. The effect of SCM on the mechanical properties, thermal shock resistance, oxidation resistance and slag resistance of MgO–C refractories has been studied, along with exploring the toughening mechanism on thermal shock resistance. The results showed that the refractories containing 6 wt% SCM (M6) exhibited the most favorable comprehensive properties. Compared to reference sample M0, M6 showed significant enhancements in thermal shock resistance, oxidation resistance, and slag resistance by 38.6%, 29.8%, and 23.9%, respectively. Notably, the unique microstructure of MgO nanofibers and carbon encapsulated MgO played a crucial role in facilitating crack deflection and branching, which promote the generation of microcracks and the consumption of strain energy. These mechanisms contributed to the improvement in thermal shock resistance of refractories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass carbon materials, which are environmentally friendly, have received significant attention and rapidly developed in the field of electrochemical devices. In this study, rice husk carbon (RHC) was prepared using calcination and activation methods, and a layer of nickel–cobalt double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) was grown on the surface of RHC using a hydrothermal method, resulting in the formation of the NiCo-LDH@RHC composite. The open nanoflower structure and the synergistic effect between RHC and NiCo-LDH increased the conductivity and stability of the electrode material, as well as its specific capacitance. The NiCo-LDH@RHC electrode delivered a high specific capacity of 8542.5 mF cm−2 at a current density of 2 mA cm−2 with a good cycling stability of 80.45% across 5000 cycles. Furthermore, a high-performance all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was assembled using Fe2O3/CC as the anode material and NiCo-LDH@RHC as the cathode material. It displayed a high energy density of 61.44 μW h cm−2 at a power density of 3.99 mW cm−2 and an excellent cycle retention rate of 86.54% after 10 000 cycles. This research demonstrates that NiCo-LDH@RHC is an environmentally friendly and high performance electrode material with great development potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Size effect has a significant influence on the accuracy of two key factors of parameters and models in crystal plasticity simulation. This study introduces a parameter identification method that considers the indentation size effect, determining the initial slip resistance of IN625 alloy. Based on the identified parameters and utilizing the integral point traversal method, a grain boundary affected zone (GBAZ), whose strength field related to the distance to the grain boundary (GB) is introduced into the polycrystalline microstructure to represent the hindering effect of GBs on dislocations. This method effectively predicts the Hall-Petch effect and strain hardening behavior of IN625 alloy. The research reveals that dislocation pile-ups primarily concentrate in small grain clusters within the material. In fine-grained microstructures, a large volume fraction of GBs promotes dislocation pile-ups, reducing the mean free path of dislocations, leading to an increase in dislocation multiplication rate, and consequently, enhancing the strain hardening rate. An increase in GBAZ thickness results in a large stress level within the material, accompanied by a decrease in the homogeneity of stress distribution. However, the sensitivity of strain to GBAZ thickness is found to be low. The method proposed in this work holds significant applicative relevance in parameter calibration and prediction the mechanical properties of polycrystalline materials. • A modified method for identifying crystal plasticity parameters was proposed. • There is a strong linear relationship between strength and hardness at the micro-nano scale. • An explicit grain boundary affected zone was introduced into the model. • The Hall-Petch effect and strain hardening behavior of IN625 alloy was predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen diffusion and damage characteristics within the microstructure at the crack tip are direct factors determining hydrogen embrittlement (HE) phenomena, yet research in this area from a mesoscale perspective is still insufficient. This study employs a non-local crystal plasticity constitutive model coupled with a hydrogen diffusion model that considers grain boundary (GB) characteristics and incorporates fracture initiation parameter accounting for the HELP + HEDE mechanisms. The research investigates hydrogen diffusion behavior at the crack tip in pure nickel and provide a detailed exploration of the mechanism underlying hydrogen-assisted crack propagation. The results indicate that the non-local model exhibits advantages in simulating the hydrogen diffusion process. Hydrogen induces intragranular cracks to propagate along slip planes with a high dislocation density. High-energy GBs and triple junctions are more susceptible to hydrogen accumulation, and under the influence of the HEDE mechanisms, they represent the primary sites for crack initiation. The entire fracture process involves the continuous coalescence of primary cracks with secondary cracks. Moreover, the HE resistance is better in equiaxed microstructures compared to rolled microstructures, particularly when the crack plane is parallel to the TD direction. • The hydrogen diffusion behavior in the microstructure at the crack tip was studied. • The interaction between hydrostatic stress and strain induces hydrogen-assisted cracking. • High-energy GBs serve as the primary enrichment sites for hydrogen atoms. • The HE resistance of the rolled microstructures is inferior to the equiaxed ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Size effect has a significant influence on the accuracy of two key factors of parameters and models in crystal plasticity simulation. This study introduces a parameter identification method that considers the indentation size effect, determining the initial slip resistance of IN625 alloy. Based on the identified parameters and utilizing the integral point traversal method, a grain boundary affected zone (GBAZ), whose strength field related to the distance to the grain boundary (GB) is introduced into the polycrystalline microstructure to represent the hindering effect of GBs on dislocations. This method effectively predicts the Hall-Petch effect and strain hardening behavior of IN625 alloy. The research reveals that dislocation pile-ups primarily concentrate in small grain clusters within the material. In fine-grained microstructures, a large volume fraction of GBs promotes dislocation pile-ups, reducing the mean free path of dislocations, leading to an increase in dislocation multiplication rate, and consequently, enhancing the strain hardening rate. An increase in GBAZ thickness results in a large stress level within the material, accompanied by a decrease in the homogeneity of stress distribution. However, the sensitivity of strain to GBAZ thickness is found to be low. The method proposed in this work holds significant applicative relevance in parameter calibration and prediction the mechanical properties of polycrystalline materials. • A modified method for identifying crystal plasticity parameters was proposed. • There is a strong linear relationship between strength and hardness at the micro-nano scale. • An explicit grain boundary affected zone was introduced into the model. • The Hall-Petch effect and strain hardening behavior of IN625 alloy was predicted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Localization of multiple small pulmonary nodules is the major obstacle in surgical resection. Here, we report a novel noninvasive localization technique based on a life‐size 3D printed "emulation pulmonary nodule localization model" which is simple and efficient. In the case reported here of a patient with synchronous multiple pulmonary nodules, the nodules were successfully and conveniently localized without any trauma by navigation of the emulation localization model. All 12 nodules were resected precisely and thoroughly, while normal lung tissues were considerably well preserved. Pathological examination confirmed malignancy of the major nodule and some other small nodules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C/MgO composite powders were prepared by combustion synthesis using magnesium oxalate and magnesium powders as raw materials. The phase composition and microstructure of the composite powders were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (FESEM/EDS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The synthetic mechanism was explored through TG-FTIR and combustion front quenching techniques. It was found that the C/MgO composite powders contained a large quantity of MgO nanofibers. When the molar ratio of magnesium oxalate and magnesium was 1:4, the carbon content of the product reached a maximum of 9.45 wt %. In the composite powders, cubic MgO particles were encapsulated by a thin carbon layer, and there was a tiny gap between MgO and the carbon layer; a large number of MgO nanofibers with aspect ratios of 80–100 were found. The cubic MgO particles of the products are the direct decomposition of MgC 2 O 4 , and the MgO nanofibers are the reaction product of gaseous Mg and CO 2 /CO at high temperature. Meanwhile, the carbon deposited on the MgO particles can inhibit the grain growth of MgO particles and result in the refinement of MgO particles. The uniform dispersion of carbon and the weak C/MgO interface combine, making the composite powders a potential additive for low-carbon MgO–C refractories with excellent thermal shock resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc ion supercapacitors (ZSCs) are considered to be a new generation of energy storage device because of their low cost and battery-like performance. However, the uncontrollable structural deformation and poor cyclic stability make them a great challenge in practical applications. Herein, we developed a flexible quasi-solid-state ZSC assembled with gel electrolytes, porous α-MnO 2 @reduced graphene oxide(α-MnO 2 @rGO) cathode, and activated carbon/carbon cloth (AC/CC) anode. The gel electrolytes containing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and ethylene glycol (EG) shows great mechanical properties, good electrical conductivity, and can afford a wide electrochemical potential window. The flexible ZSC exhibited an excellent specific capacitance of 575.5 mF cm−2 at a current density of 6 mA cm−2 and good stability during bending test. More important, the device can achieve stable electrochemical properties at low temperature of −20 °C, cycle retention can maintain 89.189 % even after 5000 cycles. This work has successfully proposed an energy storage system with excellent performance, which provides possibilities for multi-scene applications of flexible devices. • α-MnO 2 encapsulated by rGO to form a sponge-like network structure. • The specific capacitance achieves 1165.5 mF cm−2 at 10 mA cm−2 in aqueous electrolyte. • The low-temperature flexible device exhibits specific capacitance of 575.5 mF cm−2 at 6 mA cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety and reliability of inverters play a significant role in stable power electronic system operations. Considering a railway vehicle air-conditioning inverter as a case study, this paper presents a generic open-circuit fault diagnosis method that can be applied to various inverter and control schemes. First, a detailed model of three-phase output currents under both normal and fault status is derived, and then the concept of space trajectory is introduced based on the three-phase output currents. The open-circuit faults of the inverter lead to output phase current distortion. Therefore, different types of faults have different space trajectories, and the corresponding shape of the space trajectory is considered to be a fault feature. Then, the fault is located by the direction vector and center-of-mass coordinate. The effectiveness and reliability of the diagnosis method are verified and analyzed using a hardware-in-the-loop test platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel hydrogen diffusion model coupled with CPFE framework was proposed. • The GB energy and HS jointly determine the distribution of hydrogen. • Hydrogen diffusion along GB is affected by the concentration within the grains. • Alloys with medium-sized grain microstructures exhibit good hydrogen tolerance. The influence of grain boundaries (GBs) on hydrogen transportation is a crucial factor in understanding the mechanisms of hydrogen embrittlement (HE) in polycrystalline alloys. Crystal plasticity models have the advantages in simulating the effect of grain microstructure on hydrogen diffusion in polycrystals, but they have not yet been coupled with hydrogen diffusion models that can take into account GB characters. In this study, a hydrogen diffusion model that considers the effect of GBs on the transportation of hydrogen was developed to study the local hydrogen diffusion behavior in bi-crystalline and polycrystalline alloys. The simulation results showed the capability of the model in describing the influence of hydrogen on the material deformation. In addition, this study found that the hydrostatic stress determined the hydrogen concentration in the far-GB region, whereas the GB energy played a control role in and near the GB regions. Notably, hydrogen exhibits a preference for localization near high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) and triple junctions. In alloys with medium grain size, hydrogen typically had low average concentration with a more uniform distribution. Furthermore, the hydrogen-assisted crack growth mechanism was analyzed as the continuous coalescence of primary and secondary cracks along GBs. This work presents a hydrogen diffusion model that considers GB effects, and the proposed model has advantages in predicting the deformation and fracture of polycrystalline alloys in hydrogen environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, nanosheet-shaped CuS (NS CuS) is successfully grown on carbon cloth (CC) by a two-step route in combination with electrodeposition and hydrothermal treatment via in situ sulfidations of Cu 2 O and Cu with exposure to thiourea at 120 °C or 24 h. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray diffractometry are performed to characterize the microstructure, morphology, composition, and crystal structure of the NS CuS CC samples. The electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the synthesized NS CuS CC electrocatalysts possess outstanding oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance and superior long-term durability in 1 M KOH electrolyte. In particular, the NS CuS CC synthesized via the electrodeposition process at an applied current of 1.5 mA shows a low overpotential for the OER (358 mV at 10 mA/cm2), which is close to that of commercial IrO 2 (346 mV at 10 mA/cm2). The exceptional OER property is ascribed to the NS CuS having a large surface area to offer abundant reaction active sites and to the CC network structures supplying more ions and charge transfer channels during the electrocatalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although cobalt pyrophosphate (Co2P2O7) has shown promise as a potential electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), its electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) has rarely been explored. In this work, a novel composite catalyst with in situ grown Co2P2O7 on nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheets (Co2P2O7/N-rGO) was fabricated by a facile one-step pyrolysis method. Pyrolysis temperature was found to have a significant effect on the morphology, structure and ORR performance of the composites. The catalyst fabricated at 800 °C (Co2P2O7/N-rGO-800) presented ultrasmall Co2P2O7 nanocrystals (below 5 nm) anchored on N-rGO and the highest pyridinic-N proportion. Benefiting from the full exposure of active sites on the ultrasmall Co2P2O7 nanocrystals, abundant pyridinic-N species and the synergistic effect of Co2P2O7 and N-doped graphene, optimized Co2P2O7/N-rGO-800 not only demonstrates excellent ORR catalytic activity with a positive cathodic peak potential (0.823 V vs. 0.833 V of the commercial Pt/C catalyst), but also shows superior durability and methanol crossover resistance to Pt/C in alkaline solution. In addition, the composite catalyst also exhibits reasonable oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance and impressive OER stability in KOH solution. These findings suggest that the Co2P2O7/N-rGO catalysts may be promising candidates as oxygen electrocatalysts for future energy conversion applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we demonstrate the synthesis of sheet-shaped Co2P grown on carbon cloth (sheet-shaped Co2P-CC) through a facile route. Electrochemical measurements indicated that sheet-shaped Co2P-CC with a loading of 0.6 mg cm−2 Co2P (denoted Co2P-CC-0.6) exhibits exceptional electrocatalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), with an overpotential of 94 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 80 mV decade−1 in 1 M KOH. Similarly, sheet-shaped Co2P-CC-0.6 was also found to be an excellent electrocatalyst for the HER in 0.5 M H2SO4 and in 0.5 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS), with overpotentials of 95 and 231 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, respectively. Sheet-shaped Co2P has a large surface area, meaning that it can provide a relatively large number of active sites on its surface, and CC is an highly conductive substrate that, when used in conjunction with Co2P, can enhance the conductivity of the electrocatalyst. These outstanding results show that sheet-shaped Co2P-CC could be an excellent candidate for a highly efficient electrocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zn-ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZSC) have shown great potential as energy storage devices as they incorporate the merits of rechargeable batteries and supercapacitors. However, the poor bendability, unsatisfied energy density and cycling stability are still challenging the practical application of ZSC. Herein, Zn-doped MnO 2 nanowires (Zn-MnO 2) binder-free cathodes is synthesized with the aid of a one-step hydrothermal approach, which improves the lattice distortion caused by Zn hydrate ions and provided rich ion transport path. The Zn-MnO 2 cathode was assembled with the active carbon (AC) anode into an axial ZSC, achieving a surface capacitance of 1300 mF cm−2 and an energy density of 722.2 μWh cm−2 at power density of 1.99 mW cm−2. After 20,000 charge/discharge cycles, a capacity retention rate of 83.75% and a coulombic efficiency of 100% were achieved, indicating excellent cycle stability of present device. In addition, this axial ZSC reveals exquisite mechanical flexibility and electrochemical stability, enabling continuously power smartphones under bending conditions. Present work suggests that ZSC devices based on Zn-MnO 2 have excellent doable for business energy storage devices. • A axial ZSC was designed with Zn-doped MnO 2 cathode and carbon material anode. • The axial structure improves the flexibility and stability of the ZSC device. • The ZSC device displays high energy density (722.2 μWh cm−2). • The fiber-type device can be applied as wearable bracelet power supply device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many fish swim using various kinematic patterns of head and tail combinations to change their body posture, which reduces drag while swimming. This study proposes a new method to improve the energy-harvesting performance of a flapping foil by actively controlling the combined movements of the leading- and trailing-edge flaps. These movements allow the foil to deform to a shape with preferable hydrodynamic performance during the flapping motion inspired by fish swimming modes. The study employs two-dimensional (2D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the effect of the forced oscillation of a leading-edge flap on the energy-harvesting performance of a flapping foil. Consequently, the optimal combination of operating parameters of the leading-edge flap leading to greater efficiency and an apparent increase in power production from the flapping foil can be determined. Therefore, the energy-harvesting performance of a flapping foil with dynamic leading- and trailing-edge flaps was investigated numerically. The results suggest that synchronized movement between the leading- and trailing-edge flaps, which mimic the movement of live fish, can increase the camber of the foil and effectively manage the boundary layer by adjusting the frequency and amplitude of the oscillations, thereby generating elevated hydrodynamic forces acting on the foil. Therefore, the proposed flapping foil with swinging leading- and trailing-edge flaps can exhibit superior energy-harvesting performance than its conventional alternative across the full spectrum of operations. • A novel concept of a flapping foil flow energy harvester is proposed in this work. • Actively controlled leading- and trailing-edge flaps were adopted to mimic the head and tail oscillations of a fish. • CFD analysis were performed to investigate the performance of the proposed flapping foil configuration. • The proposed flapping foil energy harvester has better energy harvesting performance than its conventional counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the lamellar-shaped Bi2S3 grown on a porous TiO2 monolith was obtained by a two-step method including a sol–gel route and hydrothermal treatment. The photocatalytic activity of the as-synthesized Bi2S3/TiO2 composites was evaluated for photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye in aqueous solution under the visible-light irradiation. Based on our experimental results, 5% (molar ratio of Bi2S3 to TiO 2) Bi2S3/TiO2 photocatalysts exhibited a maximum photodegradation rate of MB up to 96.9% under visible-light irradiation for 120 min. Our findings indicated that the lamellar-shaped Bi2S3 can extend the light absorption up to visible areas, and porous TiO2 can provide enhanced specific surface area and more mass transfer pathway to enhance the photodegradation efficiency. Furthermore, porous TiO2 can accept the electrons from the Bi2S3 conduction band due to the relatively positive electrode potential to impede the photoproduced electron and hole combination to result in advanced photocatalytic performance. In this work, the lamellar-shaped Bi2S3 grown on a porous TiO2 monolith was successfully synthesized by a sol–gel method using PS hard templates, followed by in-situ sulfuration of Bi2O3 via a hydrothermal method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous NiCo2S4 networks have been successfully synthesized by a facile one-pot solvothermal method without the use of any surfactant or template. Crystal structure, morphology, composition and surface area of the as-synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller techniques. Owing to their porous nature and small crystalline size, the as-prepared NiCo2S4 networks based supercapacitor electrodes showed a high specific capacitance of 1250Fg at 1Ag, and excellent cycling stability with the retention capacity of 70.3% after 5000 cycles in the KOH aqueous solution electrolyte. Porous NiCo2S4 networks have been successfully synthesized by a facile one-pot solvothermal method, without the use of any surfactant or template. Owing to their porous nature and small crystalline size, the as-prepared NiCo2S4 networks-based supercapacitor electrodes showed a high specific capacitance of 1250Fg at 1Ag, and excellent cycling stability with the retention capacity of 70.3% after 5000 cycles in the KOH aqueous solution electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the higher requirements for green energy, high-performance renewable energy technology based on earth‑abundant materials is essential. Aqueous zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZSC) have been regarded as an attractive candidate for sustainable electrochemical energy storage device combining the advantages of batteries and supercapacitors, but their unsatisfactory cycling stability and low energy density remain a problem to be solved. Herein, nitrogen-doped MnO 2 (N-MnO 2) nanowalls were synthesized by in situ deposition, which provides rich ion transport pathway and accelerates the extraction/insertion of zinc ions. As a result, N-MnO 2 anode can be assembled to an aqueous zinc-ion hybrid capacitor with AC cathodes, presenting a high energy density of 712.5 μWh cm−2 at a power density of 1000 μW cm−2 (1 mA cm−2) and excellent cycle stability with a capacity retention rate of 92.9 % in 25,000 charge-discharge cycles. In addition, the flexible hybrid supercapacitor exhibits excellent mechanical flexibility, and the electrochemical performance remains stable under different bending angles. This work shows that ZSC device based on N-MnO 2 nanowalls hold great potential for new energy storage devices. • Preparation of nitrogen-doped MnO2 and commercial activated carbon as electrodes for flexible zinc-ion hybrid capacitors. • The multi-layer sandwich structure improves the flexibility and stability of the asymmetric supercapacitor. • The designed N-doped MnO2 has a capacity retention rate of 92.9 % after 25,000 times of continuous charge and discharge. • The device exhibits good performances in flexibility , showing the potential of wearable energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) carry molecular information from their source cells and are desired biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. We establish a machine learning-assisted dual-marker detection method to analyze the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) in serum sEVs for the diagnosis and prognosis prediction of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We find that the serum sEV EGFR and CXCR4 are significantly higher in advanced stage NSCLC (A/NSCLC) patients compared to early stage NSCLC (E/NSCLC) patients and the healthy donors (HDs). A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis demonstrates that the combination of EGFR and CXCR4 in serum sEVs as an efficient diagnostic index and malignant degree indicator for NSCLC. Machine learning further shows a diagnostic accuracy of 97.4% for the training cohort and 91.7% for the validation cohort based on the combinational marker. Moreover, this machine leaning-assisted serum sEV analysis successfully predicts the possibility of tumor relapse in three NSCLC patients by comparing their serum sEVs before and three days after surgery. This study provides an intelligent serum sEV-based assay for the diagnosis and prognosis prediction of NSCLC, and will benefit the precision management of NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately manipulating field strength and polarization state are essential in various terahertz applications. Such manipulations are based on the efficient modulation of the amplitude and phase of electromagnetic waves. However, there is a lack of such terahertz modulators with sufficient efficiency and bandwidth. Herein, the Brewster–critical angle is exploited for modulation by using a nematic liquid crystal. Unlike liquid crystal phase shifters that only give a narrowband phase delay via a one‐directional switch, the presented device modulates both the amplitude and phase across an ultra‐broadbandwidth via a bidirectional active switch. An average intensity modulation depth over 99.6% is achieved for 0.2–1.6 THz. Furthermore, highly accurate polarization conversion between linear and circular states is also realized for 0.4–1.8 THz, with the average degree of linear and circular polarizations as high as 0.994 and 0.998, respectively. The superior accuracy, bandwidth, and active control achieved provide great potential for multifunctional terahertz modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Voltage-source inverter is a significant part of power supply for various applications. In hard working conditions, the inverter is prone to failure, such as open-circuit (OC) faults, which bring great risk to the safe operation. Therefore, a simple and robust fault diagnosis method for OC faults of voltage-source inverter is proposed. First, the fault principle of OC fault is studied, and a rule of voltage sequence is found that the sequence of positive and negative abnormal voltages is related to the fault position. Then, available line voltages are used as fault diagnosis variables, the fault phase is detected by abnormal values of line voltages, and the fault switch is located according to the fault phase and the rule of voltage sequence. Different from existing OC fault diagnosis methods, the proposed method is immune to phase to phase short-circuit fault, which has not been referred to or discussed in existing literatures yet but can lead to the false diagnosis of OC fault diagnosis methods. Moreover, the proposed method is robust to load variation, switching and fundamental frequencies. The experimental tests are carried out on a dSPACE platform, and the proposed method is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To assess the seasonal and spatial variations and long-term trends in water optical properties in Lake Fuxian, investigations based on field work in four seasons and a long-term analysis of data from 1980 to 2014 were conducted. The results show that there was no significant variation in the euphotic depth (Z eu) across the four seasons, and no significant correlations between Z eu and potential influencing factors in seasons other than summer, suggesting that the water itself may be a major factor regulating the Z eu in general. Nevertheless, significant differences in Z eu between the north region (NR) and the south region (SR) were observed in all seasonal tests except spring. This finding relates to a higher abundance of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) in the NR due to runoff, especially in the rainy seasons (summer and autumn). CDOM and its terrigenous component had an important impact on Z eu in summer, with the highest precipitation, and impacts from suspended solids and non-algal particles were also found in the NR in summer. The Secchi disk depth in the lake decreased clearly over the years, with significantly negative correlations with the increasing permanganate index and air temperature, implying that organic contaminants (CDOM and/or phytoplankton) are important regulators of water transparency. We estimate that the combined effects of climate warming and changes in land use and land cover are also indirect regulating factors. These findings should be considered in the protection of Lake Fuxian, owing to the importance of light penetration in aquatic ecosystems. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report herein a one-pot synthesis of unsymmetrical disulfides with trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) as an oxidant. Under facile conditions, aromatic-aromatic disulfides and aromatic-aliphatic disulfides were synthesized in good to excellent yields even without base. For the construction of the challenging aliphatic-aliphatic disulfides, good yields of the desired products were also obtained with slightly modified conditions. Additionally, the reactions demonstrated a wide range of substrate scope, very short reaction time (<5 min), and convenient procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) carry molecular information from their source cells and are desired biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. We establish a machine learning-assisted dual-marker detection method to analyze the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) in serum sEVs for the diagnosis and prognosis prediction of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We find that the serum sEV EGFR and CXCR4 are significantly higher in advanced stage NSCLC (A/NSCLC) patients compared to early stage NSCLC (E/NSCLC) patients and the healthy donors (HDs). A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis demonstrates that the combination of EGFR and CXCR4 in serum sEVs as an efficient diagnostic index and malignant degree indicator for NSCLC. Machine learning further shows a diagnostic accuracy of 97.4% for the training cohort and 91.7% for the validation cohort based on the combinational marker. Moreover, this machine leaning-assisted serum sEV analysis successfully predicts the possibility of tumor relapse in three NSCLC patients by comparing their serum sEVs before and three days after surgery. This study provides an intelligent serum sEV-based assay for the diagnosis and prognosis prediction of NSCLC, and will benefit the precision management of NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Serrated flow mechanisms during plane-strain compression were revealed. • Dynamic recrystallization was accelerated at high strain rate. • <001>were preferred crystallographic orientations to recrystallization nucleation. • Improving volume fraction of DRX grains can weaken texture intensity. [Display omitted] Strain rate played an important role in the forming process of metal and alloy. In the present work, the effect of strain rate on deformation behavior and microstructure evolution of thermal-rolled Inconel 625 superalloy were systematically investigated by plane-strain compression (PSC) test at 1000 °C, and the strain rate range changed from 1 × 10−3 s−1 to 5 s−1. Obvious serrations occurred in strain rate range of 5 s−1 - 0.05 s−1 and transformed from type A to type A+B, and type B with decreasing of strain rate. Microscopic observations from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated that type A and type B serration were related to slip bands nucleation-propagation, and carbon atoms-dislocations interaction, respectively. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique and TEM were used to study the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior during PSC. As the strain rates were greater than 5 s−1, DRX process was accelerated because of high deformed stored energy and adiabatic heating. This is undoubtedly a meaningful find to refine grain size and improve thermal processing efficiency. Discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX) and continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX) have been confirmed to occur simultaneously during the deformation process, but CDRX played a minor role in DRX nucleation. Texture evolution characteristics were also related to strain rate. Nearly random texture distribution was obtained as the strain rate above 0.5 s−1. Obvious Cu, E, S and Cube textures appeared in the strain rate range of 0.1 s−1–10−2 s−1. Grain orientations showed random distribution at the strain rate of 10−3 s−1. Moreover,<001> direction should be considered as preferred crystallographic orientations to recrystallization nucleation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strengthening effects of primary α grains in titanium alloys were systematically investigated by integrating micropillar compression tests and crystal plasticity simulations. This study focused on the deformation behavior of dual-phase micropillars consisting of a single primary α grain and a single-crystal β matrix. During compression, these micropillars exhibited two slip modes, i.e., single- and multi-slip features. Slip analysis was performed based on the compressed morphology of the pillars and the Schmid factors. It was found that the first slip step observed in multi-slip pillars was not attributed to the slip system with the largest Schmid factor. To validate the experimental findings, numerical simulations using crystal plasticity models were conducted. The simulation results accurately reproduced the engineering stress-strain responses and allowed for a comparison of the distribution of von Mises stress and cumulative shear strain between the dual-phase and single-β phase pillars. Also, the stress concentration induced by α precipitates affects the stress distribution and leads to heterogeneous deformation within the micropillars, correlating with the observed slip modes. The experimental and numerical results will provide a further understanding of meso-scale heterogeneous deformation behaviors and offer insights into the microstructure-properties relationship in titanium alloys. [Display omitted] • The presence of α grains can alter the slip modes near α/β heterointerfaces. • Slip steps with lower Schmid factors are activated in multi-slip micropillars. • Severe gradients of stress and shear strain are introduced by α precipitates. • Deformation capacity and anisotropy can both affect mechanical responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Complete and highly accurate reference genomes and gene annotations are indispensable for basic biological research and trait improvement of woody tree species. In this study, we integrated single‐molecule sequencing and high‐throughput chromosome conformation capture techniques to produce a high‐quality and long‐range contiguity chromosome‐scale genome assembly of the soft‐seeded pomegranate cultivar 'Tunisia'. The genome covers 320.31 Mb (scaffold N50 = 39.96 Mb; contig N50 = 4.49 Mb) and includes 33 594 protein‐coding genes. We also resequenced 26 pomegranate varieties that varied regarding seed hardness. Comparative genomic analyses revealed many genetic differences between soft‐ and hard‐seeded pomegranate varieties. A set of selective loci containing SUC8‐like,SUC6, FoxO and MAPK were identified by the selective sweep analysis between hard‐ and soft‐seeded populations. An exceptionally large selective region (26.2 Mb) was identified on chromosome 1. Our assembled pomegranate genome is more complete than other currently available genome assemblies. Our results indicate that genomic variations and selective genes may have contributed to the genetic divergence between soft‐ and hard‐seeded pomegranate varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report the synthesis of cactus-shaped CdS-Cu 9 S 5 heterostructure on copper foam (CdS-Cu 9 S 5 -CF) through a cost-effective strategy. The as-prepared CdS-Cu 9 S 5 -CF is demonstrated to be a highly efficient catalyst for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, and its high performance is attributed to its unique cactus-shaped structure, which provides abundant surface catalytic active sites, and numerous charge transfer channels, thereby enhancing the transport and separation of photoinduced charge carriers during the PEC process. The optimized 3% CdS-Cu 9 S 5 -CF (the mole ratio of CdS: Cu 9 S 5 = 3: 100) exhibits higher photocurrent density than those of pure Cu 9 S 5 and other CdS-Cu 9 S 5 -CF catalysts because the synergetic effects between Cu 9 S 5 and CdS can significantly inhibit the recombination of photoinduced charge carriers during the PEC process. We believe that the new synthetic route developed in this study will enable the facile preparation of metal sulfide-based catalysts for high-efficiency PEC water splitting. Unlabelled Image • The cactus-shaped CdS-Cu 9 S 5 heterostructure was successfully fabricated. • Such cactus-shaped structure can offer more carrier charges transfer channel. • PEC performance enhancement of Cu 9 S 5 through optimized the CdS content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 ternary composites have been successfully synthesized by a simple approach. The SEM and TEM results demonstrate that MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 ternary composites have a porous structure, which can provide more active sites and mass charge transport pathways in a catalytic system. The optical measurement demonstrates that the MoS 2 and CdSe coexisted in the porous TiO 2 structure, which results in a wider visible light absorption than that of pure TiO 2. Most importantly, the photoelectrochemical measurement results demonstrate that such ternary composite catalysts exhibit a higher photocurrent performance than that of a binary composite and pure TiO 2 , owing to the strong synergistic effects among MoS 2 , CdSe, and TiO 2. These superior results show that MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 ternary composites is a promising choice for photoelectrochemical water splitting. Image 1 • Porous MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 photoanodes were prepared by a facile method. • Porous MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 photoanodes can enhance the light absorption and supply more surface reaction active sites. • Porous MoS 2 /CdSe/TiO 2 catalysts can significantly enhance the separate rate of the photogenerated charge carrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A well-designed microstructure plays a crucial part in achieving favorable properties and optimizing the service performances of titanium alloys, requiring thorough investigations of the microstructure effect on the heterogeneous deformation and strain partition behaviors. The mechanical responses of titanium alloy with lamellar microstructure are analyzed from lamellae features' crystallographic and geometric aspects through crystal plasticity simulations. It is found that the coarser β and finer α lamellae exhibited improved strain accommodation capacity which mainly benefitting from the large amount of plastic slip occurring in the coarse β lamellae of lamellar microstructure. Furthermore, the interlamellar strain partition coefficient evolves dynamically and gradually stabilizes after 5% deformation. Considering the geometric and crystallographic orientations of α phase, angles γ 1 and γ 2 are used to evaluate the strengthening effects of α lamellae precipitating from 6 types of β variants. Simulated results reveal that a more uniform strain partition occurs when cos γ 1 is in the range of 0.8–1.0 and cos γ 2 is lower than 0.3, while a higher deformation resistance occurs when cos γ 1 and cos γ 2 are in the range of 0.2–0.4 and 0.9 to 1.0, respectively. Therefore, finding an appropriate balance by manipulating the microstructural characteristics can simultaneously enhance the plasticity/strength of a titanium alloy. The obtained results will facilitate understanding the interlamellar strain partition behavior of titanium alloys and theoretically guide the microstructure designing for mechanical properties optimization. [Display omitted] • Crystallography and geometrical features of lamellae affect the mechanical responses. • Coarser β and finer α lamellae exhibit better strain accommodation capacity. • Strain partition coefficient evolves dynamically with increasing deformation. • Stress-strain responses are mapped to pilot microstructure designing for desirable properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that both catalytic efficiency and stability are the two important parameters of photocatalysts for visible-light-driven hydrogen production reactions. However, light-driven hydrogen evolution based applications still suffer from sluggish reaction kinetics due to the lack of high-performance photocatalysts. In this paper, we successfully synthesized a ternary porous CdS/WO 3 /TiO 2 photocatalyst with high efficiency and stability via two-stage approach. The as-prepared samples are characterized by XRD, FESEM, EDS, TEM, XPS, and UV–Vis, respectively, which illustrated that the CdS and WO 3 moieties are in-situ formed inside the porous TiO 2 . Particularly, the photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2 ) evolution rate of such ternary 8% CdS/WO 3 /TiO 2 (molar ration of CdS:WO 3 :TiO 2  = 8:8:100) photocatalyst ranges up to 2106 μmol h −1  g −1 under visible-light irradiation, which is higher than that of pure TiO 2 and other binary (CdS/TiO 2 and WO 3 /TiO 2 ) porous photocatalysts. The superior H 2 evolution efficiency can be attributed to the coexistence of CdS and WO 3 in porous TiO 2 which can promote the interfacial charge transfer and separation as well as extend the light absorption up to the visible range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a successful synthesis of porous TiO 2 monoliths decorated with unique nanoplate, nanoprism, and nanopyramid-shaped CdSe particles through a mild selenylation of CdO embedded inside porous TiO 2 monoliths via a hydrothermal method in a very controlled manner. Compared with pure TiO 2 , as-synthesized CdSe/TiO 2 photocatalyst not only enhances light absorption but also leads to a highly efficient charge-carrier separation. Particularly, the nanoplate-shaped 7% CdSe/TiO 2 photocatalyst (molar percentages of CdSe to TiO 2 is 7:100) exhibits an exceptional hydrogen evolution rate up to 3650 μmol h −1 g −1 without resorting to any noble-metal co-catalysts under visible-light irradiation owing to synergistic effects envisaged by a rational material design. Our results may provide a useful strategy to develop a highly-efficient visible-light-driven hydrogen production system via water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient production of hydrogen through visible-light-driven water splitting mechanism using semiconductor-based composites has been identified as a promising strategy for converting light into clean H 2 fuel. However, researchers are facing lots of challenges such as light absorption and electron-hole pair recombination and so on. Here, new sheet-shaped MoS 2 and pyramid-shaped CdS in-situ co-grown on porous TiO 2 photocatalysts (MoS 2 CdS TiO 2 ) are successfully obtained via mild sulfuration of MoO 3 and CdO coexisted inside porous TiO 2 monolith by a hydrothermal route. The scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy results exhibit that the MoS 2 CdS TiO 2 composites have average pore size about 500 nm. The 3%MoS 2 10%CdS TiO 2 demonstrated excellent photocatalytic activity and high stability for a hydrogen production with a high H 2 -generation rate of 4146 μmol h −1 g −1 under visible light irradiation even without noble-metal co-catalysts. The super photocatalytic performance of the visible-light-driven hydrogen evolution is predominantly attributed to the synergistic effect. The conduction band of MoS 2 facilitates in transporting excited electrons from visible-light on CdS to the porous TiO 2 for catalytic hydrogen production, and holes to MoS 2 for inhibiting the photocorrosion of CdS, respectively, leading to enhancing the efficient separation of electrons and holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting using high-performance catalysts shows considerable promise in generating environment-friendly hydrogen energy. Its practical applications, however, suffer from several shortcomings, such as low photocurrent density, large onset-voltage value, and poor durability. In this study, CuS and CdS quantum-dot-cosensitized porous TiO 2 -based PEC catalysts (CuS-CT) have been successfully synthesized via in situ sulfuration of CuO and CdO coexisting inside a porous TiO 2 monolith by a hydrothermal method. Compared to porous TiO 2 , CuS-sensitized porous TiO 2 (CuS-TiO 2 ), and CdS-sensitized porous TiO 2 (CdS-TiO 2 ) in terms of PEC performance, the CuS-CT photoanode exhibited a significantly high anodic photocurrent for water splitting under simulated sunlight radiation. The photocurrent produced by the optimized sample of 7% CuS-5% CdS-TiO 2 (7% CuS-CT) was nearly 2.7 times higher than that of pure porous TiO 2 at 1.0 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). Porous TiO 2 possesses large surface areas that can drive fast electrolyte transport and afford more surface reaction active sites. On the other hand, CuS and CdS quantum dots not only broaden the visible light absorption range, but also improve photoinduced electron-hole separation efficiency. The co-sensitized multi-nanostructures photoanodes lead to a remarkable and promising application in PEC water splitting reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient production of H 2 via solar-light-driven water splitting by a semiconductor-based photocatalyst without noble metals is crucial owing to increasingly severe global energy and environmental issues. However, many challenges, including the low efficiency of H 2 evolution, low solar light absorption, excited electron–hole pair recombination, and slow transport of photoexcited carriers, must be resolved to enhance the H 2 photoproduction efficiency and photocatalyst stability. Here, a two-step method is used to synthesize advanced H 2 -generating photocatalysts consisting of pyramid-like CdS nanoparticles grown on a porous TiO 2 monolith, which show promising photocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction. Furthermore, the stability of the photocatalysts is examined through long-term tests to verify their good durability. Without noble metals as cocatalysts, the photocatalyst can reach a high H 2 production rate of 1048.7 μmol h −1 g −1 under UV–vis irradiation when the ratio of the CdS nanoparticles to TiO 2 is 5 mol%. This unusual photocatalytic activity arises from the wide-region light adsorption due to the narrow band gap of CdS, effective separation of electrons and holes due to conduction band alignment at the CdS–TiO 2 interface, and favorable reaction sites resulting from the porous structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microscopic deformation behavior is always been of significant interest in revealing the mechanism of the dwell fatigue effect. This study systematically characterized the deformation system activation in Ti–6Al–3Nb–2Zr–1Mo (Ti6321) alloy using in situ tensile and quasi-in situ dwell fatigue tests. The critical resolved shear stresses of the basal and prismatic slip systems in the Ti6321alloy were first calculated using the slip trace analysis method. The study demonstrated that, under dwell fatigue, basal and prismatic slips consist of major microscopic deformation modes. Most of the slip deformation occurred rapidly during the early stage of dwell fatigue and was independent of the dwell loading. The basal slip was found to be the predominant slip mode regardless of the dwell conditions. The results suggested that the elastic anisotropy of the hexagonal-closed-packed (HCP) structure could lead to heterogeneous microscopic stress, thus activating more basal slip activities. Such activities were found to participate in the crack initiation through two unique cracking modes: basal plane crack and (0001) twist boundary crack. [Display omitted] • The critical resolved shear stress was quantitatively evaluated through in situ tensile tests. • Dwell fatigue deformation modes were revealed by the crystallographic characteristics. • Basal slip deformation was proved to be the predominant slip mode and highly participated in the crack initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A strategy to quantify α phase strengthening in titanium alloys is proposed. • The interface-affected zone arising from spherical primary α grains is introduced. • Elastic interaction energy coupling by the semi-coherent interfaces of lamellae. • The orientation and growth direction affect the non-uniform strain in α lamellae. A strategy to quantify the second phase strengthening of α precipitates in titanium alloys is proposed to predict the mechanical performance through crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) models. Considering the different dominant features of equiaxed and lamellar microstructures, statistical and microstructural factors are introduced to describe the slip resistance variations in the β matrix. The significant contribution of the interfaces is incorporated by introducing the interface-affected zone (IAZ) into crystal plasticity constitutive laws of equiaxed microstructures. In particular, the slip resistance variation is derived accounting for the interfacial energy distribution inside the IAZ. Meanwhile, the arrangement of the α lamellae is more compact and complex than that of spherical α grains in equiaxed microstructures; thus, instead of the IAZ, the interface length density is applied to describe the strengthening effects of the interfaces in lamellar microstructures. The elastic interaction energy induced by the semi-coherent interfaces of lamellae is obtained according to the micro-elastic theory. Using the advantages of the aforementioned improved models, CPFE simulations of the tensile behavior of equiaxed and lamellar microstructures at room temperature are performed, with the results matching well with the experimental data. Moreover, differences regarding the lattice structures and grain orientations lead to non-uniform strain partitioning in equiaxed and lamellar microstructures. Equiaxed α grains that favor prismatic slip tend to bear more plastic deformation than those favoring basal slip. The growth direction of α lamellae affects the deformation ability as well. Consequently, the proposed approach can precisely predict the mechanical properties of dual-phase titanium alloys through statistical values of microstructural features, and can be utilized in the investigations of other metals with similar structural characteristics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Porous Sn/Nd-codoped TiO2 photocatalysts were synthesized. [•] The dopant can narrow band gap of TiO2 photocatalyst. [•] The dopant can prevent recombination of photogenerated carriers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article focuses on the cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) by reducing orf224 gene transcript levels in oilseed rape, while mentioning the morphology of flowers, pollen grains and anthers of the pol CMS plant and also mentions Red Fluorescent Protein expression patterns in selected tissues.

Pyrrolidines and piperidines are important building blocks in organic synthesis. Numerous methods exist for constructing substituted pyrrolidines and piperidines. However, efficient syntheses of pyrrolidines and piperidines bearing chiral tertiary alcohols are limited. Here we report an efficient enantioselective nickel-catalyzed intramolecular reductive cyclization of N-alkynones. A P-chiral bisphosphorus ligand DI-BIDIME is designed and applied in the synthesis of tertiary allylic siloxanes bearing pyrrolidine and piperidine rings in high yields and excellent enantioselectivities, with triethylsilane as reducing reagent. The highest turn over number achieved is 1000 (0.1 mol% catalyst loading) with > 99:1 er. This reaction provides a practical way to synthesize pyrrolidine and piperidine derivatives with chiral tertiary alcohols from easily accessible starting materials under mild conditions. The products can be scaled up and transformed to various useful chiral intermediates. The P-chiral bisphosphorus ligand developed in this study represents one of the few ligands for highly enantioselective cyclization of alkynones. Transition metal-catalyzed cyclization of alkynes and carbonyls offers a useful route to cyclic allylic alcohols, but typically uses precious metal catalysts. Here, enantioselective nickel-catalyzed reductive cyclization of N-alkynones gives tertiary allylic alcohols in up to 99:1 er with catalyst loadings of 0.1 mol% [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]