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In this experimental study, we use a data-driven machine learning framework based on genetic programing (GP) to discover model-free control laws (individuals) for suppressing self-excited thermoacoustic oscillations in a prototypical laminar combustor. This GP framework relies on an evolutionary algorithm to make decisions based on natural selection. Starting from an initial generation of individuals, we rank their performance based on a cost function that accounts for the trade-off between the state cost (thermoacoustic amplitude) and the input cost (actuator power). We then breed subsequent generations of individuals via a tournament in which the direct forwarding of elite individuals occurs alongside genetic operations such as mutation, replication, and crossover. We implement this GP control framework in both closed-loop and open-loop forms, followed by benchmarking against conventional open-loop control based on time-periodic forcing. We find that while all three control strategies can achieve similarly large reductions in thermoacoustic amplitude, GP closed-loop control consumes the least actuator power, making it the most efficient. It achieves this efficiency by learning an actuation mechanism that exploits the strong heat-release-rate amplification of the open flame at its preferred mode, even though the GP algorithm has never seen the open flame itself. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using GP to discover new and more efficient model-free individuals for suppressing self-excited thermoacoustic oscillations, providing a promising approach to data-driven feedback control of combustion devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the complete regularity of the weak solutions, the existence of the strong (X,X2α)$$ \left(X,{X}_{2\alpha}\right) $$‐global and exponential attractors, and their stability on dissipative index α$$ \alpha $$ for the structurally damped Kirchhoff wave equation: utt−M(‖∇u‖2)Δu+(−Δ)αut+f(u)=g(x)$$ {u}_{tt}-M\left({\left\Vert \nabla u\right\Vert}^2\right)\Delta u+{\left(-\Delta \right)}^{\alpha }{u}_t+f(u)=g(x) $$, together with the Dirichlet boundary condition, where the perturbed parameter α∈(1/2,1)$$ \alpha \in \left(1/2,1\right) $$ is called a dissipative index, X$$ X $$ is energy space, and X2α$$ {X}_{2\alpha } $$ is strong solution space. We show that when the nonlinearity f(u)$$ f(u) $$ is of supercritical growth: p∗=N+2N−2≤p

The paper is concerned with the exponential attractors for the viscoelastic wave model in Ω ⊂ R 3 : u tt - h t (0) Δ u - ∫ 0 ∞ ∂ s h t (s) Δ u (t - s) d s + f (u) = g , with time-dependent memory kernel h t (·) which is used to model aging phenomena of the material. Conti et al. (Am J Math 140(2):349–389, 2018a; Am J Math 140(6):1687–1729, 2018b) recently provided the correct mathematical setting for the model and a well-posedness result within the novel theory of dynamical systems acting on time-dependent spaces, recently established by Conti et al. (J Differ Equ 255:1254–1277, 2013), and proved the existence and the regularity of the time-dependent global attractor. In this work, we further study the existence of the time-dependent exponential attractors as well as their regularity. We establish an abstract existence criterion via quasi-stability method introduced originally by Chueshov and Lasiecka (J Dyn Differ Equ 16:469–512, 2004), and on the basis of the theory and technique developed in Conti et al. (2018a, b) we further provide a new method to overcome the difficulty of the lack of further regularity to show the existence of the time-dependent exponential attractor. And these techniques can be used to tackle other hyperbolic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, calibrated hot box and finite element simulation methods were used to study the influence of a slotted web on the thermal performance of a lightweight steel stud composite wall. By comparing the results from the simulations and experiments, the accuracy of the finite element method was verified; this method was then used for parameter analyses. The results showed that the wall's thermal transfer coefficient is inversely proportional to increases in the length of the slot and height of the stud web, leading to improvements in the thermal insulation effect; vice versa, the wall thermal transfer coefficient increases when the slot transverse spacing and stud thickness increase, and the insulation effect correspondingly worsens. The stud spacing influences the insulation performance of the wall by changing the proportion of studs within a certain wall. The greater the proportion of studs, the greater the stud thermal bridging, the faster the thermal loss, and the worse the insulation effect of the wall. In practice, the height of the stud web can be set as required. Preferably, for practical applications, the number of rows of slots is 5–7, the length of the slots is 70–80 mm, the transverse distance of the slots is 6–8 mm, the thickness of each stud is 1 or 1.2 mm, and the distance of each stud is 600 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigates the well-posedness and the regularity of the solutions, the existence and the continuity of the strong attractors for the structurally damped Kirchhoff wave models with subcritical-critical nonlinearities: u tt - (1 + ϵ ‖ ∇ u ‖ 2 ) Δ u + (- Δ) α u t + h (u t) + g (u) = f (x) , where ϵ ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] is a perturbed extensibility parameter, α ∈ [ 1 / 2 , 1) is a dissipative index. We show that when the nonlinearity g(u) is of either critical growth as α ∈ (1 / 2 , 1) or subcritical growth as α = 1 / 2 , while h (u t) is of critical growth depending on α , the model is well-posed and its weak solution is exactly the strong one; the related solution semigroup S ϵ (t) has a strong (X, Y)-global attractor and a strong (X, Y)-exponential attractor, which are also the standard global and exponential attractor of optimal regularity of S ϵ (t) in X, respectively, where X is the energy space and Y is the strong solution space; these global attractors are upper semicontinuous and these exponential attractors are Hölder continuous with respect to perturbed parameter ϵ in the sense of Y-topology, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) is an important food crop, an excellent fodder crop, and a new type of industrial raw material crop. The lack of genomic resources could affect the process of industrialization of sweet potato. Few detailed reports have been completed on the mitochondrial genome of sweet potato. In this research, we sequenced and assembled the mitochondrial genome of sweet potato and investigated its substructure. The mitochondrial genome of sweet potato is 270,304 bp with 23 unique core genes and 12 variable genes. We detected 279 pairs of repeat sequences and found that three pairs of direct repeats could mediate the homologous recombination into four independent circular molecules. We identified 70 SSRs in the whole mitochondrial genome of sweet potato. The longest dispersed repeat in mitochondrial genome was a palindromic repeat with a length of 915 bp. The homologous fragments between the chloroplast and mitochondrial genome account for 7.35% of the mitochondrial genome. We also predicted 597 RNA editing sites and found that the rps3 gene was edited 54 times, which occurred most frequently. This study further demonstrates the existence of multiple conformations in sweet potato mitochondrial genomes and provides a theoretical basis for the evolution of higher plants and cytoplasmic male sterility breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) is an important food crop, an excellent fodder crop, and a new type of industrial raw material crop. The lack of genomic resources could affect the process of industrialization of sweet potato. Few detailed reports have been completed on the mitochondrial genome of sweet potato. In this research, we sequenced and assembled the mitochondrial genome of sweet potato and investigated its substructure. The mitochondrial genome of sweet potato is 270,304 bp with 23 unique core genes and 12 variable genes. We detected 279 pairs of repeat sequences and found that three pairs of direct repeats could mediate the homologous recombination into four independent circular molecules. We identified 70 SSRs in the whole mitochondrial genome of sweet potato. The longest dispersed repeat in mitochondrial genome was a palindromic repeat with a length of 915 bp. The homologous fragments between the chloroplast and mitochondrial genome account for 7.35% of the mitochondrial genome. We also predicted 597 RNA editing sites and found that the rps3 gene was edited 54 times, which occurred most frequently. This study further demonstrates the existence of multiple conformations in sweet potato mitochondrial genomes and provides a theoretical basis for the evolution of higher plants and cytoplasmic male sterility breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SARS-CoV-2, the causal agent of COVID-19, enters human cells using the ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) protein as a receptor. ACE2 is thus key to the infection and treatment of the coronavirus. ACE2 is highly expressed in the heart and respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, playing important regulatory roles in the cardiovascular and other biological systems. However, the genetic basis of the ACE2 protein levels is not well understood. Methods: We have conducted the largest genome-wide association meta-analysis of plasma ACE2 levels in >28 000 individuals of the SCALLOP Consortium (Systematic and Combined Analysis of Olink Proteins). We summarize the cross-sectional epidemiological correlates of circulating ACE2. Using the summary statistics–based high-definition likelihood method, we estimate relevant genetic correlations with cardiometabolic phenotypes, COVID-19, and other human complex traits and diseases. We perform causal inference of soluble ACE2 on vascular disease outcomes and COVID-19 severity using mendelian randomization. We also perform in silico functional analysis by integrating with other types of omics data. Results: We identified 10 loci, including 8 novel, capturing 30% of the heritability of the protein. We detected that plasma ACE2 was genetically correlated with vascular diseases, severe COVID-19, and a wide range of human complex diseases and medications. An X-chromosome cis–protein quantitative trait loci–based mendelian randomization analysis suggested a causal effect of elevated ACE2 levels on COVID-19 severity (odds ratio, 1.63 [95% CI, 1.10–2.42]; P =0.01), hospitalization (odds ratio, 1.52 [95% CI, 1.05–2.21]; P =0.03), and infection (odds ratio, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.08–2.37]; P =0.02). Tissue- and cell type–specific transcriptomic and epigenomic analysis revealed that the ACE2 regulatory variants were enriched for DNA methylation sites in blood immune cells. Conclusions: Human plasma ACE2 shares a genetic basis with cardiovascular disease, COVID-19, and other related diseases. The genetic architecture of the ACE2 protein is mapped, providing a useful resource for further biological and clinical studies on this coronavirus receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmonic injection method is widely used in the suppression of current harmonic and torque ripple in field-oriented control (FOC) permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) servo system. However, under some working conditions of FOC PMSM, the harmonic injection method fails to suppress the current harmonics and causes oscillation. To analyze the cause of oscillation, the transfer mechanism of injected voltage harmonic is analyzed in this article, and the relation between injected voltage harmonic and current harmonic is derived. The theoretical analysis results show that the relation between harmonics will change with motor speed and parameters of FOC PMSM. When the relation between harmonics is reversed, the existing harmonic injection method will fail and cause harmonic oscillation. To solve this problem, a simple improvement of the harmonic injection method is proposed in this article based on the proposed close-loop model. The correctness of the mathematical derivation and the effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by experiment and simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper investigates the robustness of pullback attractors and pullback exponential attractors of the non-autonomous Kirchhoff wave models with strong nonlinear damping: u tt - (1 + ϵ ‖ ∇ u ‖ 2 ) Δ u - σ (‖ ∇ u ‖ 2) Δ u t + f (u) = g (x , t) , where ϵ ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] is an extensibility parameter. It shows that when the growth exponent p of the nonlinearity f(u) is up to the supercritical range: 1 ≤ p < p ∗ ∗ ≡ N + 4 (N - 4) + , (i) the related process has a pullback attractor A ϵ in natural energy space H = (H 0 1 ∩ L p + 1) × L 2 for each ϵ , and it is upper semicontinuous on the perturbation ϵ ; (ii) the related process has a partially strong pullback exponential attractor M ϵ for each ϵ , and it is Hölder continuous on ϵ ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] . These results deepen and extend those in recent literatures (Chueshov in J Diff Equ 252:1229–1262, 2012; Ding et al. in Appl Math Lett 76:40–45, 2018; Wang and Zhong in Discrete Contin Dyn Syst 7:3189–3209, 2013). The main novelty of this paper is that it provides a new method to investigate the upper semicontinuity of pullback attractors and the stability of pullback exponential attractors in supercritical nonlinearity case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Femur head necrosis (FHN) is a challenging clinical disease with unclear underlying mechanism, which pathologically is associated with disordered metabolism. However, the disordered metabolism in cancellous bone of FHN was never analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Objectives: To elucidate altered metabolism pathways in FHN and identify putative biomarkers for the detection of FHN. Methods: We recruited 26 patients with femur head necrosis and 22 patients with femur neck fracture in this study. Cancellous bone tissues from the femoral heads were collected after the surgery and were analyzed by GC-MS based untargeted metabolomics approach. The resulting data were analyzed via uni- and multivariate statistical approaches. The changed metabolites were used for the pathway analysis and potential biomarker identification. Results: Thirty-seven metabolites distinctly changed in FHN group were identified. Among them, 32 metabolites were upregulated and 5 were downregulated in FHN. The pathway analysis showed that linoleic acid metabolism were the most relevant to FHN pathology. On the basis of metabolites network, L-lysine, L-glutamine and L-serine were deemed as the junctions of the whole metabolites. Finally, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, inosine, L-proline and octadecanoic acid were considered as the potential biomarkers of FHN. Conclusion: This study provides a new insight into the pathogenesis of FHN and confirms linoleic acid metabolism as the core. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most of Camellia oleifera forests have low fruit yield and poor oil quality that are largely associated with soil fertility. Soil physical and chemical properties interact with each other affecting soil fertility and C. oleifera growing under different soil conditions produced different yield and oil composition. Three main soil types were studied, and redundancy, correlation, and double-screening stepwise regression analysis were used for exploring the relationships between C. oleifera nutrients uptake and soil physical and chemical properties, shedding light on the transport law of nutrient elements from root, leaves, and kernel, and affecting the regulation of fruit yield and oil composition. Results: In the present study, available soil elements content of C. oleifera forest were mainly regulated by water content, pH value, and total N, P and Fe contents. Seven elements (N, P, K, Mg, Cu, Mn and C) were key for kernel's growth and development, with N, P, K, Cu and Mn contents determining 74.0% the yield traits. The transport characteristics of these nutrients from root, leaves to the kernel had synergistic and antagonistic effects. Increasing oil production and unsaturated fatty acid content can be accomplished in two ways: one through increasing N, P, Mg, and Zn contents of leaves by applying corresponding N, P, Mg, Zn foliar fertilizers, while the other through maintaining proper soil moisture content by applying Zn fertilizer in the surface layer and Mg and Ca fertilizer in deep gully. Conclusion: Soil type controlled nutrient absorption by soil pH, water content and total N, P and Fe content. There were synergistic and antagonistic effects on the inter-organ transport of nutrient elements, ultimately affecting N, P, K, Cu and Mn contents in kernel, which determined the yield and oil composition of C. oleifera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the well-posedness, the existence and the regularity of the time-dependent global attractor for a viscoelastic equation in Ω ⊂ R 3 : | ∂ t u | ρ ∂ t t u − ∂ t t Δ u − h t (0) Δ u − ∫ 0 ∞ ∂ s h t (s) Δ u (t − s) d s + f (u) = h with time-dependent memory kernel which is used to model aging phenomena of the material. By using the novel theory framework recently developed in literature (Conti et al., 2018 [12,13]) and establishing some delicate integration estimates along the trajectory of the solutions in the time-dependent phase space, we show that when ρ ∈ (1 , 4 ] , the growth exponent p of f (u) is up to the critical range 1 ≤ p ≤ 5 , and the time-dependent memory kernel satisfies the same conditions as in Conti et al., (2018) [12,13], the model is well-posed. Especially, when ρ ∈ (1 , 4) and 1 ≤ p < 5 , the related process has an invariant time-dependent global attractor which has optimal regularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We will introduce four new geometric constants closely related to the James constant J (X) , which have symmetric structure, along with a discussion on the relationships among them and some other well-known geometric constants via several inequalities, together with the calculation of several values on some specific spaces. In addition, we will characterize geometric properties of J 1 (X) , such as uniform non-squareness and uniformly normal structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We will introduce some new geometric constants based on the constant H (X) proposed by Gao and the constant A 2 (X) proposed by M. Baronti et al. We first provide a study of a new constant M 1 (X) closely related to the midlines of equilateral triangles, including a discussion of some of its properties and the connections with other parameters of the sphere. Next, we focus on a new constant M 2 (X) and its generalized form M 2 (X , p , q) , along with some of their basic properties. Finally, we concentrate on a new constant M 3 (X) and discuss some of its properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long‐lasting radioluminescence scintillators have recently attracted substantial attention from both research and industrial communities, primarily due to their distinctive capabilities of converting and storing X‐ray energy. However, determination of energy‐conversion kinetics in these nanocrystals remains unexplored. Here we present a strategy to probe and unveil energy‐funneling kinetics in NaLuF4:Mn2+/Gd3+ nanocrystal sublattices through Gd3+‐driven microenvironment engineering and Mn2+‐mediated radioluminescence profiling. Our photophysical studies reveal effective control of energy‐funneling kinetics and demonstrate the tunability of electron trap depth ranging from 0.66 to 0.96 eV, with the corresponding trap density varying between 2.38×105 and 1.34×107 cm−3. This enables controlled release of captured electrons over durations spanning from seconds to 30 days. It allows tailorable emission wavelength within the range of 520–580 nm and fine‐tuning of thermally‐stimulated temperature between 313–403 K. We further utilize these scintillators to fabricate high‐density, large‐area scintillation screens that exhibit a 6‐fold improvement in X‐ray sensitivity, 22 lp/mm high‐resolution X‐ray imaging, and a 30‐day‐long optical memory. This enables high‐contrast imaging of injured mice through fast thermally‐stimulated radioluminescence readout. These findings offer new insights into the correlation of radioluminescence dynamics with energy‐funneling kinetics, thereby contributing to the advancement of high‐energy nanophotonic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long‐lasting radioluminescence scintillators have recently attracted substantial attention from both research and industrial communities, primarily due to their distinctive capabilities of converting and storing X‐ray energy. However, determination of energy‐conversion kinetics in these nanocrystals remains unexplored. Here we present a strategy to probe and unveil energy‐funneling kinetics in NaLuF4:Mn2+/Gd3+ nanocrystal sublattices through Gd3+‐driven microenvironment engineering and Mn2+‐mediated radioluminescence profiling. Our photophysical studies reveal effective control of energy‐funneling kinetics and demonstrate the tunability of electron trap depth ranging from 0.66 to 0.96 eV, with the corresponding trap density varying between 2.38×105 and 1.34×107 cm−3. This enables controlled release of captured electrons over durations spanning from seconds to 30 days. It allows tailorable emission wavelength within the range of 520–580 nm and fine‐tuning of thermally‐stimulated temperature between 313–403 K. We further utilize these scintillators to fabricate high‐density, large‐area scintillation screens that exhibit a 6‐fold improvement in X‐ray sensitivity, 22 lp/mm high‐resolution X‐ray imaging, and a 30‐day‐long optical memory. This enables high‐contrast imaging of injured mice through fast thermally‐stimulated radioluminescence readout. These findings offer new insights into the correlation of radioluminescence dynamics with energy‐funneling kinetics, thereby contributing to the advancement of high‐energy nanophotonic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: C. Oleifera is among the world's largest four woody plants known for their edible oil production, yet the contribution rate of improved varieties is less than 20%. The species traditional breeding is lengthy cycle (20–30 years), occupation of land resources, high labor cost, and low accuracy and efficiency, which can be enhanced by molecular marker-assisted selection. However, the lack of high-quality molecular markers hinders the species genetic analysis and molecular breeding. Results: Through quantitative traits characterization, genetic diversity assessment, and association studies, we generated a selection population with wide genetic diversity, and identified five excellent high-yield parental combinations associated with four reliable high-yield ISSR markers. Early selection criteria were determined based on kernel fresh weight and cultivated 1-year seedling height, aided by the identification of these 4 ISSR markers. Specific assignment of selected individuals as paternal and maternal parents was made to capitalize on their unique attributes. Conclusions: Our results indicated that molecular markers-assisted breeding can effectively shorten, enhance selection accuracy and efficiency and facilitate the development of a new breeding system for C. oleifera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We numerically investigate the forced synchronization of the self-excited flow behind a plunging airfoil in ground effect at a Reynolds number of Re = 1000. On varying the plunging amplitude and frequency, we find a rich array of nonlinear dynamics, such as a period-1 limit cycle due to natural vortex shedding as well as two-frequency quasiperiodicity on a torus attractor ( T 2 ). For certain non-resonant plunging frequencies without a ground surface, we find that low-dimensional chaos emerges via the Ruelle–Takens–Newhouse route. However, we find that the chaos can be suppressed by introducing a ground surface, inducing a direct transition from T 2 quasiperiodicity to 1:1 phase locking as the plunging amplitude rises over the boundaries of the Arnold tongue. Apart from suppressing chaos, the ground surface also causes the lift and drag coefficients to become less sensitive to the plunging motion itself. Knowledge of the critical plunging conditions required for forced synchronization and chaos could be useful in various engineering applications, such as the design of pico air vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper contains new results about the well-posedness and the asymptotic dynamics of solutions for a general abstract coupled system that arises in connection with thermoelastic Balakrishnan–Taylor beam models with fractional operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current, torque, and speed harmonics caused by deadtime effect in voltage source inverter (VSI)-fed permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) usually lead to undesired torque ripple and extra electrical loss, etc. In this article, a mathematical model is proposed to predict the deadtime-related harmonics in VSI-fed field-oriented control PMSM, and a deadtime-related harmonic minimization method is proposed based on proportional-integral (PI) controllers tuning and under the premise of keeping the same control strategy. The expressions of current, torque, and speed harmonics caused by deadtime effects are obtained based on the complex amplitude expression of the voltage error harmonic and the derivation of the closed-loop transfer function from the deadtime-related voltage error to the d–q axis current. Based on the derived expressions, optimization objective functions are built to search the optimal PI parameters for minimizing deadtime-related harmonics and reducing the torque ripple. The optimization constraint functions can be adjusted for transient performance requirements, so the transient performance can keep good even if the deadtime-related harmonics are minimized with the optimal PI parameters. Both simulation analysis and experimental data verify the correctness of the analytical prediction and the validity of the deadtime-related harmonic minimization method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The cell regeneration and blood supply of bone defect lesions are restricted under osteoporotic pathological conditions, which make the healing of bone defect of osteoporosis still a great challenge. The current therapeutic strategies that mainly inhibit bone resorption are not always satisfactory for osteoporotic bone defects, which make the development of new therapies an urgent need. Methods. Previously, we prepared chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite (CS/nHA) biomimetic nanocomposite scaffolds for controlled delivery of bone morphogenetic protein 2-derived peptide (P24). In this study, we determined the effect of coculturing adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with the CS-P24/nHA nanocomposite scaffolds on osteoporotic bone defect healing. In vitro mixed coculture models were employed to assess the direct effects of coculture. Results. ADSCs cocultured with HUVECs showed significantly greater osteogenic differentiation and mineralization compared with ADSCs or HUVECs alone. The CS-P24/nHA scaffold cocultured with ADSCs and HUVECs was more effective in inducing osteoporotic bone repair, as demonstrated by micro-computed tomography and histology of critical-sized calvariae defects in ovariectomized rats. Calvariae defects treated with the CS-P24/nHA nanocomposite scaffold plus ADSC/HUVEC coculture had a greater area of repair and better reconstitution of osseous structures compared with defects treated with the scaffold plus ADSCs or the scaffold plus HUVECs after 4 and 8 weeks. Conclusion. Taken together, coculture of ADSCs and HUVECs with the CS-P24/nHA nanocomposite scaffold is an effective combination to repair osteoporotic bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Delivery efficiency is the bottleneck of spot-scanning proton arc therapy (SPArc) because of the numerous energy layers (ELs) ascending switches. This study aims to develop a new algorithm to mitigate the need for EL ascending via water equivalent thickness (WET) sector selection followed by particle swarm optimization (SPArc-particle swarm). Approach. SPArc-particle swarm divided the full arc trajectory into the optimal sectors based on K-means clustering analysis of the relative mean WET. Within the sector, particle swarm optimization was used to minimize the total energy switch time, optimizing the energy selection integrated with the EL delivery sequence and relationship. This novel planning framework was implemented on the open-source platform matRad (Department of Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center-DKFZ). Three representative cases (brain, liver, and prostate cancer) were selected for testing purposes. Two kinds of plans were generated: SPArc_seq and SPArc-particle swarm. The plan quality and delivery efficiency were evaluated. Main results. With a similar plan quality, the delivery efficiency was significantly improved using SPArc-particle swarm compared to SPArc_seq. More specifically, it reduces the number of ELs ascending switching compared to the SPArc_seq (from 21 to 7 in the brain, from 21 to 5 in the prostate, from 21 to 6 in the liver), leading to a 16%–26% reduction of the beam delivery time (BDT) in the SPArc treatment. Significance. A novel planning framework, SPArc-particle swarm, could significantly improve the delivery efficiency, which paves the roadmap towards routine clinical implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the stability of strong exponential attractors with respect to dissipative index θ ∈ [ 1 / 2 , 1) for the Kirchhoff wave model with structural nonlinear damping: u t t − ϕ (‖ ∇ u ‖ 2) Δ u + σ (‖ ∇ u ‖ 2) (− Δ) θ u t + f (u) = g (x). It proves that for each θ 0 ∈ [ 1 / 2 , 1) , there exists a family of strong bi-space exponential attractors, which are also the standard exponential attractors of optimal regularity and are Hölder continuous at the point θ 0 in the topology of the strong solution space provided that the nonlinearity f (u) is of the optimal subcritical growth. The method used here allows to overcome the difficulties in literatures before to get the Lipschitz continuity and quasi-stability of the evolution semigroup S θ (t) to obtain the desired result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A review of the adoption of generative adversarial networks in clinical neuroimaging. • We focus on GAN's applications in modeling disease effects of neurologic diseases. • We discuss the pitfalls of current studies and provide future perspectives. Generative adversarial networks (GANs) are one powerful type of deep learning models that have been successfully utilized in numerous fields. They belong to the broader family of generative methods, which learn to generate realistic data with a probabilistic model by learning distributions from real samples. In the clinical context, GANs have shown enhanced capabilities in capturing spatially complex, nonlinear, and potentially subtle disease effects compared to traditional generative methods. This review critically appraises the existing literature on the applications of GANs in imaging studies of various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, brain tumors, brain aging, and multiple sclerosis. We provide an intuitive explanation of various GAN methods for each application and further discuss the main challenges, open questions, and promising future directions of leveraging GANs in neuroimaging. We aim to bridge the gap between advanced deep learning methods and neurology research by highlighting how GANs can be leveraged to support clinical decision making and contribute to a better understanding of the structural and functional patterns of brain diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the uniformity of one‐pixel width and continuity of the thinned edges, this paper proposes an edge thinning algorithm acting on grey‐scale edge images based on 24 self‐defined single‐pixel connection patterns. First, for binary or blurred grey‐scale gradient edge images, a distance–greyscale coupling algorithm is proposed to achieve gradient enhancement in the edge width direction. Then the elimination rules of noise points and gradient calculation method are given. Secondly, the marking rules of the first three pixels of each edge are given. The next pixel to be marked must meet that the new last three pixels belong to the 24 connection modes. Whether the qualified pixels are retained depends on its grey value and the local edge gradient. The algorithm is tested on four types of images. The results show that the proposed method can guarantee uniform, smooth, and connected one‐pixel‐wide lines that lie at the centre of the initial edges. The algorithm and the existing algorithms are performed on portrait image and four scenarios of the indoor datasets. Five evaluation indicators are statistically analyzed to prove the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence and intensification of transcontinental exchange during both the Late Neolithic and Bronze Age profoundly influenced the social history of Eurasia. While scholars have intensively discussed east-west long-distance communication along the proto-Silk Road, the north-south transport networks that connected China to South and Southeast Asia during the Late Neolithic and Bronze Age have attracted much less attention in the scholarly literature based on archeological science data. In this paper, we find new radiocarbon dates from 11 Neolithic and Bronze Age sites in northwestern and central Yunnan in Southwest China, a key entrance into South and Southeast Asia from China. Combined with previously published archeological records and radiocarbon dates, we attempt to disentangle and understand the timing and routes of the networks linking China to South and Southeast Asia during the Late Neolithic and Bronze Age. We propose three north-south land routes that played essential roles in the cultural exchanges in addition to the proto-Silk Road and maritime routes. This includes the trans-Himalayan routes, trans-Hengduan Mountain routes, and the trans-Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau routes. The north-south exchange between China and South and Southeast Asia probably emerged in the fifth millennium BP (before the present) mainly through a low-frequency trans-Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau and trans-Himalayan routes. The exchange frequency significantly increased after the fourth millennium BP, with the synchronous development of the three primary north-south passageways. Trans-Hengduan routes might have been the most crucial artery connecting China and South and Southeast Asia during 3000–2200 BP, but more archeological records are needed to understand the detailed evolution of these transport networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Development of SCFST stub column internally reinforced by CFRP profile. • Axial compression tests on 10 SCFST-CFRP columns and 2 SCFST columns. • Study of mechanical properties of SCFST-CFRP column with varying parameters. • Evaluation of existing design codes of AIJ, EC4, AISC-LRFD, and GB50936. • Development of empirical equations for column axial load capacity. This paper presents experimental and numerical investigations of an innovative composite column, which is formed using a square concrete filled steel tubular (SCFST) column internally reinforced by a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) profile (referred to as SCFST-CFRP column), under axial compression. Full-scale axial compression tests were conducted on ten SCFST-CFRP columns with different steel ratios and steel grades and two traditional SCFST columns. The test results, including failure mode, axial load–displacement response, and strain development, were analyzed to examine the column behavior under axial compression. Numerical models of SCFST-CFRP columns were developed and validated to further investigate the stress distribution and load-bearing contribution of each column component. The validated models were then used for parametric studies that evaluated the effects of material and structural parameters on column behavior and axial load capacity. Besides, design rules, as suggested in the codes of AIJ, EC4, AISC-LRFD, and GB50936, were evaluated using experimental and numerical data for axially loaded SCFST-CFRP columns. In addition, empirical equations were developed through unified criteria to predict the SCFST-CFRP column capacity under axial compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA (miRNA) is one of the most potent therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis (OA). We identified that miR-654-3p protected the phenotype of chondrocytes. We demonstrated that TNF receptor superfamily member 9 (TNFRSF9) was the target of miR-654-3p by binding to its 3′UTR regions, based on a dual-luciferase reporter assay and an RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. In addition, further experiments proved that TNFRSF9, as a trigger of the NF-κB pathway, correlated with the inflammation in chondrocytes. MiR-654-3p overexpressed in the knee of mice alleviated the OA in vivo. Moreover, we examined the m6A enzyme level in OA, proving that the abnormal expression of α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase alkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) contributed to the miR-654-3p decrease. Our research illustrated the significant role of miR-654-3p in OA, including its maturation and the mechanism in protecting the phenotype of chondrocytes, which could be a new treatment target for OA. • miR-654-3p decreased the inflammation in OA by targeting TNFRSF9 directly. • TNFRSF9 activated the NF-κB Pathway in OA which could be suppressed by CD137 protein. • Excessive ALKBH5 limited the maturation of miR-654-3p. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of arthritis that causes joint pain and limited mobility. In recent years, some studies have shown that the pathological process of OA chondrocytes is related to ferroptosis. Our study aims to identify and validate differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (DEFRGs) in OA chondrocytes and to investigate the potential molecular mechanisms. RNA-sequencing and microarray datasets were downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data repository. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened by four methods: limma-voom, edgeR, DESeq2, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), protein-protein interactions (PPI), and cytoHubba of Cytoscape were applied to identify hub genes. Clinical OA cartilage specimens were collected for quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, western blotting (WB), histological staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and transfection. Sankey diagram was used to visualize the relationships between the expression level of SLC3A2 in the damaged area and clinical factors. Based on bioinformatics analysis, clinical factors, and experiment validation, SLC3A2 was identified as a hub gene. It was down-regulated in OA cartilage compared to normal cartilage (p < 0.05). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that SLC3A2 was associated with ferroptosis-related functions. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the expression level of SLC3A2 in the OA cartilage-damaged area was closely related to BMI, obesity grade, and Kellgren-Lawrence grade. Furthermore, in vitro experiments validated that SLC3A2 inhibited ferroptosis and suppressed cartilage degeneration in OA. In summary, we demonstrated that SLC3A2 inhibited ferroptosis and suppressed cartilage degeneration in OA. These findings provide a new idea for the study of the pathogenesis of OA, thus providing new means for the clinical diagnosis and targeted therapy of OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outburst flood sediments are studied on the upper course of the Yangtze River (known as the Jinsha River) where is a key region for the development of hydroelectric power. As the history and magnitude of outburst flooding in this stretch of the Jinsha River during historic times has remained largely undocumented, we have endeavored as part of this study to conduct field investigations into, and provide numerical dating (using OSL and 14C dating techniques) of outburst flood evidence found in the First Bend area of the Yangtze River. Carbonized nutshells and charcoal from the ancient settlement yielded 14C ages that precisely pinpointed an outburst flood event ∼1200–1300 cal yr BP, during China's Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). However, OSL ages using the minimum age model for all outburst flood samples ranged from 9.1 to 1.8 ka, which was ∼0.5–7.8 ka older than the 14C-dated outburst flood. This discrepancy suggests a potential overestimation of quartz age when dating outburst flood sediments from the Holocene period. Furthermore, using 2D hydraulic modeling, we estimated the magnitude of the aforementioned outburst flood, revealing a reconstructed peak flow discharge of 51,000–55,300 m3/s. This discharge was three times greater than the 10,000-year flood for the hydroelectric power station nearest to the study area. Our study underscores the significant role of combining archaeological and geological evidence in enhancing paleoflood hydrology research. Through a multidisciplinary approach, our findings emphasize the importance of paleoflood hydrology studies in comprehending both the latent and catastrophic flood risks in alpine mountain areas amid the context of global warming. • A series of outburst flood sediments was identified in the First Bend area of the Yangtze River, with a maximum flood water surface ∼86 m high above modern river level. • The obtained 14C ages would suggest that the outburst flood occurred at ∼1200–1300 cal yr BP in the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) of China. • The reconstructed peak flow discharge (51,000–55,300 m3/s) is larger than the three times of the 10,000-yr flood for the nearest hydropower station to the study site. • Outburst floods were identified in the First Bend of the Yangtze River. • The 14C ages (∼1200–1300 cal yr BP) suggest the flood was in the Tang Dynasty. • The peak discharge is larger than triple the 10,000-flood of the nearest dam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX) has attracted considerable attention in energy-related fields. However, the safety performance of RDX needs to be improved in terms of various external stimuli. Herein, such issues of RDX could be well balanced through hydrothermal assembly with the assistance of insensitive 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) in a low content of 10 wt% (named RT co-particles). The TATB spread outside and were embedded inside of the resultant RT co-particles, which were examined via X-ray computed tomography and a three-dimensional laser scanning confocal microscope. As a result, the impact safety performance of RT co-particles could be drastically enhanced to 17.5 J by the TATB lubricant effect, demonstrating over twice the value of that of raw RDX (6 J) and mixtures (7 J). Moreover, an interfacial reconstruction between RDX and TATB was witnessed due to the strong interfacial interaction, as examined by theoretical simulation. Inspired by this, a delayed exothermic decomposition temperature of RT co-particles (244.4 °C) has been achieved when compared with that of RDX (241.4 °C). As demonstrated, an energetic co-particle strategy may provide an effective pathway toward remarkably improved mechanical and thermal safety performance, shedding light on other energetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The histopathology grading system is the gold standard post-operative method to evaluate cartilage degeneration in knee osteoarthritis (OA). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T1 rho/T2 mapping imaging can be used for preoperative detection. An association between histopathology and T1 rho/T2 mapping relaxation times was suggested in previous research. However, the cutoff point was not determined among different histopathology grades. Our study aimed to determine the cutoff point of T1 rho/T2 mapping.Material and methods: T1 rho/T2 mapping images were acquired from 80 samples before total knee replacements. Then the histopathology grading system was applied.Results: The mean T1 rho/T2 mapping relaxation times of 80 samples were 39.17 ms and 37.98 ms respectively. Significant differences were found in T1 rho/T2 mapping values between early-stage and advanced OA (p < 0.001). The cutoff point for T1 rho was 33 ms with a sensitivity of 94.12 (95% CI: 80-99.3) and a specificity of 91.30 (95% CI: 79.2-97.6). The cutoff point for T2 mapping was suggested as 35.04 ms with a sensitivity of 88.24 (95% CI: 72.5-96.7) and specificity of 97.83 (95% CI: 88.5-99.9). After bootstrap simulation, the 95% CI of the T1 rho/T2 mapping cutoff point was estimated as 29.36 to 36.32 ms and 34.8 to 35.04 ms respectively. The area under the PR curve of T1 rho/T2 mapping was 0.972 (95% CI: 0.925-0.992) and 0.949 (95% CI: 0.877-0.989) respectively.Conclusions: The cutoff point of T1 rho relaxation times, which was suggested as 33 ms, could be used to distinguish early-stage and advanced OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the thermal transport in polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) is critical for enhancing the safety and reliability during PBX design, especially in the absence of effective experimental measurements. In this work, we rigorously investigated the phonon properties of 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and calculated the interfacial thermal conductance using an ab initio approach. The diffuse mismatch model and anharmonic inelastic model were adopted to examine the interfacial thermal conductance as a function of temperature for the TATB–PVDF interface. Our calculation results indicate that low-frequency phonon modes and the two-phonon process play dominant roles in the thermal transport at interfaces. In contrast, high-order phonon processes involving three to eight phonons accounted for around 8% of the interfacial thermal conductance at the TATB–PVDF interface. Phonon properties, such as the velocity and degree of phonon density overlap, are discussed for the TATB–PVDF and 1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetraazacyclooctane (HMX)–PVDF interfaces to estimate the interfacial thermal conductance of PBXs. This study provides a theoretical explanation for the establishment of a research method for PBX thermal transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the abrasive belt grinding process, actual material removal is an important parameter that affects its accuracy. At present, for obtaining the actual material removal, offline measurements are required to establish the mathematical prediction model. To improve the accuracy and efficiency of abrasive belt machine grinding, this paper proposes a novel method for monitoring material removal using multiple sensors and a two-dimensional (2D) convolutional neural network (2D-CNN) learning algorithm. In this method, features of multiple types (color, texture, and shape) are extracted from vision signals, and that of multiple domains (time, frequency, and time–frequency domain) are extracted from sound and tactile signals. These features are constructed into a 2D feature matrix as the input model, and the 2D-CNN prediction model is established between the multisensor features and the material removal rate of the abrasive belt grinding process. An experimental dataset is used to train and verify the established model. The results show that the proposed method can identify that sensor signals are sensitive to the material removal rate. After optimizing and tuning the model parameters, the coefficient of determination of the prediction results is as high as 94.5% and the root mean square error is 0.017. Therefore, the proposed method can be employed for the prediction of material removal rate for different belt specifications and different grinding parameters. Compared to traditional machine learning methods, this method can yield better training results without feature selection and optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy release performance of energetic compounds like 3-nitro-1,2,4-trizole-5-one (NTO) and 5,5′-bistetrazole-1,1′-diolate (TKX-50) are indispensable in propellent formulations. However, thermal decomposition behavior is impeded by unfavorable catalysts. Presently, ultrathin porous MoS2 nanosheets (pMoS2) are considered as high-performance catalysts for NTO and TKX-50 decomposition. The pMoS2 in 5 wt% content could decrease the decomposition temperature of NTO and TKX-50 by 13.5 °C and 37.1 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the exothermic heat-release for pMoS2@NTO and pMoS2@TKX-50 were increased almost by a factor of two. The porous structure combined with large specific area of pMoS2 could mostly trigger the catalytic effect towards energetic compound decomposition. Additionally, the as-obtained MoS2 endowed advances in safety performance of NTO and TKX-50, with remarkably reduced impact and friction sensitivity. The as-proposed strategy may stimulate a different perspective towards the fast decomposition of energetic materials in propellants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Conducted eccentric compression tests on 18 CFSST-CFRP long column. • Investigated eccentrically loaded behavior and resistance of CFSST-CFRP column. • Evaluated effects of slenderness ratios and load eccentricity ratio. • Analyzed load bearing capacity and load-transferring mechanism. • Performed parametric studies on column bearing capacity. • Developed design equations to predict ultimate eccentric load capacity. This study investigated behavior of concrete filled square steel tubular (CFSST) columns encased with I-shaped CFPR under eccentric compression. Full-scale eccentric compression tests were conducted on eighteen column specimens consisting of square steel tube, concrete, and an I-shaped CFRP profile. The test program considered effects of load eccentricity ratio and column slenderness ratio. The eccentrically loaded column behavior was investigated with respect to the mid-height deflection, load, and failure modes. The development and distribution of longitudinal strain and neural axis for the column were also studied. Finite element models were developed and validated against tested results to further analyze the load-transferring mechanism of the composite column and perform detailed parametric studies. The results indicated that the CFSST column encased with I-shaped CFRP behaved in a ductile manner with the improved capacity and increased stability. Finally, design equations were developed using tested and simulated data to estimate ultimate bearing capacity of the CFSST column encased with I-shaped CFRP when subjected to eccentric compression. The predicted column capacities using the design equations matched well with the tested and simulated capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High-strength CFSST stub column with an encased I-shaped CFRP profile was proposed. • Axial compression test was performed on HCFHSST-CFRP stub column. • Investigated effects of material strengths and steel ratio on column behavior. • The combinations of high-strength materials and CFRP improved column resistance. • Formulas were proposed to predict ultimate axial load capacity. A new composite column that consists of high-strength square steel tube, high-strength concrete, and carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) profile with a I-shaped cross section was developed and investigated in this study. This paper experimentally and numerically investigated axially loaded behavior of high-strength concrete filled high-strength steel tubular (HCFHSST) stub column with an encased I-shaped CFRP profile. In the experimental study, axial compression tests were completed on eight specimens to examine the axial load response of the composite column, including the load–displacement curves, failure mode, and strain distribution. Finite element models of the composite column were developed using ABAQUS and validated by comparing numerical results with experimental data. The validated models were used to further investigate the load sharing and transferring mechanism for each component of the composite column. Results showed that the composite column comprehensively used the advantageous merits of concrete, steel tube, and CFRP as a unit to share the applied load at different loading stages: linearly elastic, elastic–plastic, hardening, post-peak descending, and residual plateau stage. Parametric studies were performed that assessed influences of critical design parameters on the axially loaded behavior of the stub column. The examined parameters included the compressive strength of high-strength concrete, yield strength of high-strength steel, and steel ratio. Finally, empirical equations were proposed to determine the ultimate vertical strain and the ultimate axial load capacity of the HCFHSST stub column encased with a I-shaped CFRP profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Theoretical simulation was employed to select suitable conductive polymers for coating. • Three HMX/conductive polymer based composites were facilely prepared by in-situ polymerization. • The synergistic desensitization of impact and electrostatic spark was obtained. • Improved thermal phase stability with sluggish phase-transition kinetics was confirmed. Safety performance under external stimuli plays a crucial role for energetic materials. Therefore, desensitization of high explosive arouses widespread research interests in the field of energetic materials. Nevertheless, synergistically reducing impact and electrostatic spark sensitivities of 1,3,5,7-tetranittro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocane (HMX) remains challenging. Herein, a novel strategy concerning conductive polymer coating was proposed to solve this issue. Theoretically, the polypyrrole (PPy) can form a complete shell and strong interaction with HMX crystals. The HMX@PPy composite has been successfully achieved by in-situ polymerization, exhibiting superior sensitivities (impact: from 7 J to 27.5 J and electrostatic spark: from 0.4 J to 1.68 J) among reported HMX-based energetic materials. In addition, the thermal phase stability of HMX can also be visibly improved with sluggish phase-transition kinetics by introducing PPy coating. The current study provides a design concept for high energy explosives with low sensitivity and improved comprehensive performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are few reports about purely organic phosphorescence scintillators, and the relationship between molecular structures and radioluminescence in organic scintillators is still unclear. Here, we presented isomerism strategy to study the effect of molecular structures on radioluminescence. The isomers can achieve phosphorescence efficiency of up to 22.8 % by ultraviolet irradiation. Under X‐ray irradiation, both m‐BA and p‐BA show excellent radioluminescence, while o‐BA has almost no radioluminescence. Through experimental and theoretical investigation, we found that radioluminescence was not only affected by non‐radiation in emissive process, but also highly depended on the material conductivity caused by the different molecular packing. This study not only allows us to clearly understand the relationship between the molecular structures and radioluminescence, but also provides a guidance to rationally design new organic scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are few reports about purely organic phosphorescence scintillators, and the relationship between molecular structures and radioluminescence in organic scintillators is still unclear. Here, we presented isomerism strategy to study the effect of molecular structures on radioluminescence. The isomers can achieve phosphorescence efficiency of up to 22.8 % by ultraviolet irradiation. Under X‐ray irradiation, both m‐BA and p‐BA show excellent radioluminescence, while o‐BA has almost no radioluminescence. Through experimental and theoretical investigation, we found that radioluminescence was not only affected by non‐radiation in emissive process, but also highly depended on the material conductivity caused by the different molecular packing. This study not only allows us to clearly understand the relationship between the molecular structures and radioluminescence, but also provides a guidance to rationally design new organic scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To identify the molecular etiology of a Chinese family with nonsyndromic macular dystrophy. Methods. Ophthalmic examinations were performed, and genomic DNA was extracted from available family members. Whole exome sequencing of two members (the proband and her unaffected mother) and Sanger sequencing in available family members were performed to screen potential pathogenic variants. Results. Novel compound heterozygous variants, c.1066C>T (p.Pro356Ser) and c.1102+2T>C, in the major facilitator superfamily domain containing 8 gene (MFSD8) were suspected to be involved in this family's macular dystrophy phenotype. The novel c.1066C>T variant in the MFSD8 gene probably resulted in substitution of serine for proline at the 356th residue and was predicted to be "uncertain significance" through in silico analyses. The novel c.1102+2T>C variant in the MFSD8 gene was likely to affect the splicing form and predicted to be "pathogenic." Conclusion. The novel compound heterozygous variants, c.1066C>T (p.Pro356Ser) and c.1102+2T>C, in the MFSD8 gene are likely responsible for the isolated macular dystrophy phenotype in this family. This study enlarged the MFSD8 gene mutant spectrum and might provide more accurate genetic counseling for this family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fly ash and costless seawater are used to sequester CO 2 at ambient conditions. • High carbonation efficiency of up to 94.8% is obtained. • The carbonation efficiency increased with the solid/liquid and the CO 2 flow rate. • The absorbed CO 2 is converted to aragonite. • The low pH range of 8.2 ∼ 10.4 may be the key to the high carbonation efficiency. Direct CO 2 mineralization using fly ash is a promising technology to achieve CO 2 sequestration. Seawater's abundance and calcium-rich composition make it an attractive substitute solution for CO 2 sequestration. However, there have been limited studies conducted so far, and the mineralization mechanism remains unclear, which has constrained its industrial application potential. Here we utilized low CaO-content fly ash in combination with seawater to perform direct CO 2 mineralization under ambient conditions, achieving a remarkable carbonation efficiency of 94.8 %. Upon scrutinizing the carbonate parameter evolution, we identify a crucial pH range (8.2 ∼ 10.4) that enhances calcium elution efficiency, leading to heightened carbonation efficiency. The involvement of Mg(OH) 2 within this pH range influences CaCO 3 precipitation kinetics and crystalline phase. This innovative approach holds promise for carbon sequestration and presents a valuable contribution to sustainable CO 2 utilization strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. However, the AD mechanism has not yet been fully elucidated to date, hindering the development of effective therapies. In our work, we perform a brain imaging genomics study to link genetics, single-cell gene expression data, tissue-specific gene expression data, brain imaging-derived volumetric endophenotypes, and disease diagnosis to discover potential underlying neurobiological pathways for AD. To do so, we perform brain-wide genome-wide colocalization analyses to integrate multidimensional imaging genomic biobank data. Specifically, we use (1) the individual-level imputed genotyping data and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from the UK Biobank, (2) the summary statistics of the genome-wide association study (GWAS) from multiple European ancestry cohorts, and (3) the tissue-specific cis-expression quantitative trait loci (cis-eQTL) summary statistics from the GTEx project. We apply a Bayes factor colocalization framework and mediation analysis to these multi-modal imaging genomic data. As a result, we derive the brain regional level GWAS summary statistics for 145 brain regions with 482,831 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) followed by posthoc functional annotations. Our analysis yields the discovery of a potential AD causal pathway from a systems biology perspective: the SNP chr10:124165615:G>A (rs6585827) mutation upregulates the expression of BTBD16 gene in oligodendrocytes, a specialized glial cells, in the brain cortex, leading to a reduced risk of volumetric loss in the entorhinal cortex, resulting in the protective effect on AD. We substantiate our findings with multiple evidence from existing imaging, genetic and genomic studies in AD literature. Our study connects genetics, molecular and cellular signatures, regional brain morphologic endophenotypes, and AD diagnosis, providing new insights into the mechanistic understanding of the disease. Our findings can provide valuable guidance for subsequent therapeutic target identification and drug discovery in AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dislocation climb plays an important role in understanding plastic deformation of metallic materials at high temperature. In this paper, we present a continuum formulation for dislocation climb velocity based on densities of dislocations. The obtained continuum formulation is an accurate approximation of the Green's function-based discrete dislocation dynamics method (Gu et al., 2015). The continuum dislocation climb formulation has the advantage of accounting for both the long-range effect of vacancy bulk diffusion and that of the Peach–Koehler climb force, and the two long-range effects are canceled into a short-range effect (integral with fast-decaying kernel) and in some special cases, a completely local effect. This significantly simplifies the calculation in the Green's function-based discrete dislocation dynamics method, in which a linear system has to be solved over the entire system for the long-range effect of vacancy diffusion and the long-range Peach–Koehler climb force has to be calculated. This obtained continuum dislocation climb velocity can be applied in any available continuum dislocation dynamics frameworks. We also present numerical validations for this continuum climb velocity and simulation examples for implementation in continuum dislocation dynamics frameworks. • We developed a continuum formulation based on dislocation densities, as an accurate approximation of the Green's function-based discrete dislocation dynamics method. • The continuum formulation accounts for both the long-range effect of vacancy bulk diffusion and that of the Peach–Koehler climb force, and the two long-range effects are canceled into a short-range effect (integral with fast-decaying kernel) and in some special cases, a completely local effect. • The continuum formulation has also been generalized to include the pipe diffusion-assisted self-climb based on the discrete self-climb dislocation dynamics model. • The obtained continuum dislocation climb velocity formulation can be applied in any available continuum dislocation dynamics frameworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of hydrogel-based flexible strain sensors has generated enormous research interest due to their outstanding biocompatibility. However, developing hydrogel-based strain sensors with high gauge factor, wide detection range and multifunctional integration is still challenging. Here, a novel multifunctional hydrogel-based strain sensor is composed of two-dimensional transition metal carbides/nitrides (Ti 3 C 2 Tx MXene) and Polyacrylamide- co -Poly- N -hydroxyethylene acrylamide/Carboxy Methyl Cellulose-Fe3+ dual network structure (PAAm-PHEMAA/CMC-Fe3+) with multiple hydrogen bonds and coordination interactions. The dual network design endowed the hydrogel-based human motion sensor with fast rebound and high tensile properties, enabling it to exhibit high sensitivity (response time ∼120 ms and gauge factor ∼1.62), and a wide detection range (0–700%), including joint movements as well as more subtle human motions (facial micro-expression changes and speech). More importantly, the hydrogel-based strain sensor exhibited excellent EMI (41 dB, X-band) and UV shielding properties (365 nm, 100%, 0.5 mm) due to the synergy of porous structure, moderate conductivity, and ionic solution environment. Moreover, it demonstrated robust adhesion (29 kPa), high shape adaptability, and self-healing capability. This innovative multi-functional flexible sensor design provides guidance for the development, research and application of high-performance flexible wearable materials. A novel multifunctional hydrogel-based strain sensor consisted of MXene, dual-network structure (PAAm-PHEMAA/CMC-Fe3+) with multiple hydrogen bonds and coordination interactions, which demonstrated a high sensitivity and a wide detection range, conductive, EMI shielding, UV protection, self-adhesive, and healing properties. [Display omitted] • The MXene-based dual network hydrogel is comprised of PAAm-PHEMAA and CMC-Fe3+. • Hydrogels contain multiple hydrogen bonds and coordination interactions. • Hydrogels exhibit excellent ductility, stimulation sensitivity and self-adhesion. • As a strain sensor, hydrogels can precisely monitor human movement and vital signs. • The sensor can efficiently shield electromagnetic wave and UV light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]