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Plasma spray physical vapor deposition (PS-PVD) is a technology that combines the advantages of traditional atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) and electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD). As the feedstock of the PS-PVD, nano-agglomerated powder is critical on determining the microstructure of the obtained coating. In this study, a method to characterize the cohesion of nano-agglomerated powders was investigated. The nano-agglomerated powders fractured into smaller particles under ultrasonic waves. Their particle size distributions were measured to quantitatively compare their cohesiveness. The change rate in the percentage of powders with particle size less than 5 μm was selected as the value for the cohesion comparison. A high change rate corresponded to a faster fracture and lower powder cohesion. Furthermore, the fracture behavior and heat and mass transfer process of nano-agglomerated powders in the plasma torch were studied by combining 3-D simulation and observation of the microstructures of PS-PVD coatings sprayed with different powders. To obtain a quasi-columnar coating, the nano-agglomerated powder required high cohesion. Finally, a suitable powder was selected and quasi-columnar structure coatings were obtained by optimizing the PS-PVD parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose an asymptotic homogenization framework to simulate the fracture of heterogeneous materials. This framework upscales the phase field model for microscale fracture and yields anisotropic effective properties such as the degraded elasticity tensor and the fracture toughness. Furthermore, it quantitatively accounts for the toughening effect in a simple way. More specifically, when the critical energy release rate of a heterogeneous material is uniform, the framework reveals that toughening is essentially determined by the disparity in the moduli of toughness, the energy per unit volume absorbed by the constituents before cracking. • Asymptotic homogenization for phase field models for fracture. • Both the displacement field and the phase field are upscaled. • Tension-compression asymmetry in the underlying phase field model is incorporated. • Anisotropic fracture toughness tensor obtained with one single computation. • Under uniform fracture toughness, toughening depends on contrast in toughness moduli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Emerging g-DLP technique and shape memory polymers were employed to the dual information encryption. • Reconfigurable geometry and tunable optics provide the encryption and decryption behaviors under the stimulations of temperature and humidity. • The dual information encryption system is erasable, repeatable, and programmable. • The encrypted information system can be stored or decrypted permanently through the different post-processing methods. Dual information encryption such as geometry and transparency switching is highly desirable for preventing the leakage of confidential information and constructing a secure environment which has wide range of applications in privacy protection, anti-counterfeiting, and information security. However, it is still a challenge to develop a novel encrypted strategy and smart material to achieve credible protective capacity for stored information by a facile and programmed manner. Herein, integrating with arbitrary grayscale stereolithography, the hydrophilic ultraviolet (UV) curable shape memory polymers (HU-SMPs) with superior mechanical properties (the tensile strength of 29.39 MPa, elongation of 46.32 %, and the toughness of 1021.98 kJ.m−3) were prepared, which can be used for multifunctional information encryption. During the encrypted process, the HU-SMPs with the performances of high deformable and excellent shape memory behaviors can provide the preprogrammed morphological information and inevitable encryption, while the humidity-responsive of HU-SMPs capable of generating revisable transparency switching that can be encoded as the secondary information encryption. In this way, the dual encrypted information in the HU-SMPs is readable only after sequential shape recovery and fast hydration under heat-stimuli and humidity-stimuli. In addition, with the aid of digitally grayscale drawing, the secondary encrypted information is cyclically displayed and erasable due to the reversible hydration and dehydration process of HU-SMPs. Finally, the encrypted information is also can be permanently storage or decryption by the versatile post-processing methods of UV irradiation after and before decryption, respectively. In short, the design of HU-SMPs that compatible with grayscale digital light process (g-DLP)-based 3D printing, will motivates the future development of smart materials and provides a new insight into the information encrypt fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The response of chemotherapy and prognosis in bladder cancer is unsatisfied. • Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and ADC improve the efficacy of chemotherapy. • Emerging targets in cancer cells and TME spawned novel preclinical agents. • Novel drug delivery, such as nanotechnology, enhances effects of chemotherapeutics. • The organoid and PDX model are promising to screen and evaluate the target therapy. Chemotherapy is a first-line treatment for advanced and metastatic bladder cancer, but the unsatisfactory objective response rate to this treatment yields poor 5-year patient survival. Only PD-1/PD-L1-based immune checkpoint inhibitors, FGFR3 inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates are approved by the FDA to be used in bladder cancer, mainly for platinum-refractory or platinum-ineligible locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Emerging studies indicate that the combination of targeted therapy and chemotherapy shows better efficacy than targeted therapy or chemotherapy alone. Newly identified targets in cancer cells and various functions of the tumour microenvironment have spawned novel agents and regimens, which give impetus to sensitizing chemotherapy in the bladder cancer setting. This review aims to present the current evidence for potentiating the efficacy of chemotherapy in bladder cancer. We focus on combining chemotherapy with other treatments as follows: targeted therapy, including immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates in clinic; novel targeted drugs and nanoparticles in preclinical models and potential targets that may contribute to chemosensitivity in future clinical practice. The prospect of precision therapy is also discussed in bladder cancer. Combining chemotherapy drugs with immune checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates and VEGF inhibitors potentially elevates the response rate and survival. Novel targets, including cancer stem cells, DNA damage repair, antiapoptosis, drug metabolism and the tumour microenvironment, contribute to chemosensitization. Gene alteration-based drug selection and patient-derived xenograft- and organoid-based drug validation are the future for precision therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• For the first time, first-principles calculations are used to predict the lattice thermal conductivity of free-standing monolayer XS2 (X = mo and W) and monolayer XS2 supported on SiC (0001) and ZnO (0001) substrates. • The lattice thermal conductivity of monolayer XS2 supported on SiC (0001) and ZnO (0001) substrates show a significant decrease, and the decrease is even greater for the monolayer XS2 supported on ZnO (0001) substrates, reaching about 65–70 %. • The substrate drives softening of the acoustic branch, making the low-frequency phonon group velocity decrease and the three-phonon scattering enhance. • From the perspective of atomic bonding, the substrate breaks the symmetry of bonding of monolayer XS2, which leads to the increase of phonon anharmonicity and ultimately to a decrease in thermal conductivity of monolayer XS2. Thermoelectric materials have properties such as direct conversion of waste heat into electricity and environmental friendliness, which make them promising for renewable energy utilization, however, the lower conversion efficiency limits the large-scale application of thermoelectric materials. Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are candidates for thermoelectric materials due to their high power factor, but their higher thermal conductivity (TC) limits the further improvement of the figure of merit (ZT). Here, we employ first-principles calculations and solve the Boltzmann transport equation (BTE) to compare the lattice TC of free-standing monolayer XS 2 (X = Mo and W) and monolayer XS 2 supported on SiC (0001) and ZnO (0001) substrates. We find that the lattice TC of monolayer XS 2 supported on SiC (0001) and ZnO (0001) substrates are sharply reduced. Especially supported on the ZnO (0001) substrate, the lattice TC of XS 2 reduce by 65 %–70 %, which is expected to improve the thermoelectric properties of monolayer XS 2. In addition, we report the underlying cause of this significant reduction in TC. Firstly, the substrate drives softening of the acoustic branch, which leads to a decrease of phonon group velocity in the low-frequency and an enhancement of the three-phonon scattering. Then, the asymmetric bonding of XS 2 is induced by the substrates, which enhance phonon anharmonicity and reduce the phonon lifetime. Our results demonstrate that the lattice TC of monolayer XS 2 can be tuned by adjusting the substrate, which has certain reference values for the thermoelectric design of XS 2. SiC (0001) and ZnO (0001) substrates break the symmetry of the monolayer XS 2 (X = Mo and W) bonding, resulting in an increase in phonon anharmonicity, which reduces the contribution of the low-frequency acoustic branch of monolayer XS 2 to the thermal conductivity. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semi-parallel wire suspenders with spherical plain bearings have untwisting under axial force, and the collision in the untwist process bring adverse effects on the structure. To investigate the axial mechanical response of semi-parallel wire suspenders with spherical plain bearings, the equilibrium equations of suspender are deduced by assuming the distribution of steel wire after deformation, the forms of boundary conditions are distinguished according to the use of spherical plain bearing, and the linear equation expressed by equivalent stiffness coefficients is deduced. The Costello theory and finite element modeling are used to verify the proposed calculation method in this paper, and the influence of suspender parameters on the stiffness equivalent coefficient is analyzed. The results show that the proposed calculation method is suitable for multi-layer semi-parallel wire suspenders; the twist angle and the total number of layers of wires have the greatest effect on the stiffness equivalence factor; when the twisting angle is close to 0, the torsional stiffness of suspender is 0.010–0.21 of that of the steel rod with the same section; the axial tensile stiffness of the conventional suspender is basically the same as that of the steel rod with the same section, but the torsional stiffness is only 0.012–0.023 of the steel rod with the same section, and the tension-torsion coupling effect cannot be ignored. The research results provide a concise method to calculate the axial response of semi-parallel wire suspenders, which lays a foundation for the engineering treatment of the untwisting problem of semi-parallel wire suspender using spherical plain bearings. • The axial mechanical response of semi-parallel wire suspenders with spherical plain bearings is investigated. • The expression between axial resultant force, torque and overall strain of twisting structures is deduced and verified. • A concise method to calculate the axial response of semi-parallel wire suspenders is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A disaster relief logistics problem with demand–supply incongruence is addressed. • A compromise between egalitarianism and utilitarianism is achieved. • Our novel decision-making framework involves demand-point location and allocation. • Sequential approach reduces existing relief demand and its future increments. • Coverage limits ensure coherence among the sequential actions of providing relief. Several logistics problems involving disaster relief have attracted growing research interest in the recent decade. A commonality among these problems is that demand–supply incongruence is always observed in post-disaster logistics operations due to the limited relief supplies and the randomly increasing relief demands. In such situations, the decision maker fails to meet the total relief demands simultaneously. This study employs a novel decision-making framework, where the traditional disaster relief logistics actions (e.g., vehicles routing and relief allocation) are replaced by periodic, sequential actions involving demand point location and assignment. A sequential approach allows the decision maker, in the face of every demand-point, to decide whether to locate and assign it to relief suppliers immediately or later, which sequentially influences the decision in the next period. A dynamic optimization model is built and solved by using particle swarm optimization algorithm. The results of a case study indicate the advantages of the sequential approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction PAX1 has been identified to be associated with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, data are unavailable for northern Chinese populations, and it is important to determine the exact clinical phenotypes of the associated genetic polymorphisms. Methods Five PAX1 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci were genotyped in 480 northern Chinese Han AIS patients and 841 controls. A stratified genotype-phenotype correlation analysis was conducted based on positive SNP loci and the Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) classification system. Luciferase assays were performed to determine the regulation of PAX1 transcriptional activity. Results The A allele of rs17861031 and the G allele of rs6137473 were significantly associated with AIS [p = 0.05 and 3.12 × 10−3, odds ratio (OR) = 0.78 and 1.30, respectively]. Moreover, rs17861031 may regulate the PAX1 gene. The A allele of rs17861031 was identified as a risk allele for PUMC type I AIS (p = 0.03), and the G allele of rs6137473 was identified as a risk allele for PUMC type II AIS (p = 1.90 × 10−3). Conclusions Both rs17861031 and rs6137473 were significantly associated with AIS and different PUMC classifications of AIS in a northern Chinese Han population. Highlights • rs17861031 and rs6137473 were associated with Northern Chinese Han AIS patients. • rs17861031 could potentially play regulatory function to PAX1 gene. • different PUMC classification of AIS were associated with rs17861031 and rs6137473. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A novel method of high-efficiency amine selection was proposed for CO 2 capture. • Reaction energy of Δ r G m and Δ r H m was applied to evaluate amine absorbents. • The EAE and MAE were selected as the promising absorbents for CO 2 removal. • Eleven amine solutions were investigated by the rate-based screening method. • The acid dissociation constants of eleven amines were determined at 293–333 K. Abstract In this work, a novel method in terms of reaction energy was proposed to evaluate the potential amine absorbents for post-combustion CO 2 capture, including two key parameters, i.e. the molar Gibbs energy change (Δ r G m) of proton combination with amine and the molar reaction enthalpy (Δ r H m) of protonated amine dissociation into amine and proton, which are calculated by the Van't Hoff equation. Firstly, the equilibrium acid dissociation constant (K a) of seven primary and secondary amines were experimentally determined at 293–323 K. The calculated Δ r G m and Δ r H m values obtained by the novel method indicated that the 2-(ethylamino)ethanol (EAE) and 2-(methylamino)ethanol (MAE) were the alternative promising absorbents among the seven tested amines, with a relatively low Δ r G m of about −57.0 kJ/mol and Δ r H m of 49.7 kJ/mol. In addition, seven amine solutions with molar concentration of 2.5 M and 5.0 M were investigated by the rate-based fast screening method to validate the reliability and applicability of the novel method. The comprehensive comparison of the absorption rate, desorption rate, CO 2 equilibrium solubility and cyclic capacity, also demonstrated the same conclusion that EAE and MAE solutions presented good CO 2 capture performances. The 2.5 M and 5.0 M EAE solutions obtain the highest energy efficiency for CO 2 capture with the highest cyclic capacity, which is about 52.9% and 32.3% higher than those of Monoethanolamine (MEA) solution, respectively. Additionally, the structure-activity analysis of seven amines suggested that the addition of hydroxyl group can obviously decrease the absorption rate and energy consumption of amine solution for CO 2 removal, the alkyl group addition on or close to amino group with steric hindrance is favorable for the CO 2 capture performance, while the addition of methyl group on amine molecular without steric hindrance can reduce the CO 2 cyclic capacity. What's more, four tertiary amines were also investigated by using these two approaches, and the compared results further validated the accuracy and applicability of the proposed novel method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical success of radiotherapy is greatly hampered due to its intolerable off-target cytotoxicity induced by the high dose of radiation. Meanwhile, low dose of irradiation greatly potentiates the intratumoral angiogenesis, which promotes the local relapse and metastasis of tumor. Therefore, it is essential to reduce the irradiation dosage while inhibiting the tumor angiogenesis during radiotherapy. In this work, tumor vessel specific ultrafine Au@I nanoparticles (AIRA NPs) are fabricated and used as targeted radiosensitizers. Due to the presence of Au and iodine, these AIRA NPs exhibit superb X-ray attenuation for contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). Once injected, these AIRA NPs bind specifically to both newly formed tumor vessels in peri- and intratumoral regions and pre-existing tumor vessels. Upon radiation under CT guidance, AIRA NPs remarkably enhanced the killing efficacy against tumors in vivo with respect to radiation alone or anti-angiogenesis chemotherapy. Meanwhile, down-regulation of the level of circulating VEGF cytokine further indicates that our strategy can eradicate tumor without risking the recurrence of hypoxia and angiogenesis. Our demonstration provides a robust method of cancer therapy integrating good biocompatibility, high specificity and relapse-free manner alternative to traditional metal NPs enhanced radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar-driven straightforward one-step synthesis of pyridine derivatives in the absence of photosensitizer is of considerable interest but greatly challenging in synthetic and medicinal chemistry. Herein, an unprecedented 2-fold interpenetrated lvt polyoxometalate-based open framework (POM-OF), LCU-22 ([Zn(1-ipIM) 3 ] 2 [Zn 6 (AsW 9 O 33) 2 (1-ipIM) 6 ]·2(1-HipIM), 1-ipIM = 1-isopropyl imidazole) has been synthesized in gram-scale quantities using one-pot reaction and structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography. The cluster node in LCU-22 is a Zn 6 ring seamed trivacant polyoxotungstate cluster ([Zn 6 (AsW 9 O 33) 2 ]), which is quadruply extended by [Zn(1-ipIM) 3 ]2+ units to form the final 3D open framework. Remarkably, LCU-22 is highly stable over wide pH range and in various solvents, and dramatically boosted the white light-powered heterogeneous photocatalysis for synthesis of pyridine derivatives in good yields after three times recycles utilization. This work not only builds a novel POM-OF but also underscores the unique advantages of transition metal cluster substituted polyoxotungstates frameworks used for selective photocatalytic formation of value-added organic molecules. [Display omitted] • The one-pot gram-scale synthetic strategy has been reported for 2-fold interpenetrated lvt LCU-22. • LCU-22 is highly stable over wide pH range and in various solvents • LCU-22 boosted the visible-light-driven heterogeneous photocatalysis for one-step synthesis of pyridine derivatives. • The catalysis mechanism of the photocatalyst has been intensively discussed and revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calreticulin (CRT) on the cell surface that acts as an "eat me" signal is vital for macrophage-mediated programmed cell removal. The polyhydroxylated fullerenol nanoparticle (FNP) has appeared as an effective inducer to cause CRT exposure on cancer cell surface, but it failed in treating some cancer cells such as MCF-7 cells based on previous findings. Here, we carried out the 3D culture of MCF-7 cells, and interestingly found that the FNP induced CRT exposure on cells in 3D spheres via re-distributing CRT from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to cell surface. Phagocytosis experiments in vitro and in vivo illustrated the combination of FNP and anti-CD47 monoclonal antibody (mAb) further enhanced macrophage-mediated phagocytosis to cancer cells. The maximal phagocytic index in vivo was about three times higher than that of the control group. Moreover, in vivo tumorigenesis experiments in mice proved that FNP could regulate the progress of MCF-7 cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). These findings expand the application of FNP in tumor therapy of anti-CD47 mAb and 3D culture can be used as a screening tool for nanomedicine. [Display omitted] • Fullerenol nanoparticle (FNP) reduces the toxicity of anti-CD47 antibodies therapy. • 3D culture enhances the sensitivity of MCF-7 cells to FNP. • FNP inhibits the progression of MCF-7 cancer stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud computing technology has become increasingly popular and can deliver a host of benefits. However, there are various kinds of cloud providers in the market and firms need scientific decision tools to judge which cloud computing vendor should be chosen. Studies in how a firm should select an appropriate cloud vendor have just started. However, existing studies are mainly from the technology and cost perspective, and neglect other influence factors, such as competitive pressure and managerial skills, etc. Hence, this paper proposes a multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) based scientific decision tool to help firms to judge which cloud computing vendor is more suitable for their need by considering more comprehensive influence factors. It is argued that objective attributes, i.e., cost, as well as subjective attributes, such as TOE factors (Technology, Organization, and Environment) should be considered for the decision making in cloud computing services, and presents a new subjective/objective integrated MAGDM approach for solving decision problems. The proposed approach integrates statistical variance (SV), improved techniques for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS), simple additive weighting (SAW), and Delphi–AHP to determine the integrated weights of the attributes and decision-makers (DMs). The method considers both the objective weights of the attributes and DMs, as well as the subjective preferences of the DMs and their identity differences, thereby making the decision results more accurate and theoretically reasonable. A numerical example is given to illustrate the practicability and usefulness of the approach and its suitability as a decision-making tool for a firm using of cloud computing services. This paper enriches the theory and methodology of the selection problem of cloud computing vendoring and MAGDM analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystal plane engineering and defect engineering are feasible approaches to tune the electrochemical performance of nanocmaterials. Herein, a carambola-like CoWO 4 microsphere with preferred crystal planes and oxygen vacancies is synthesized by a microwave-assisted hydrothermal process together with post annealing treatment. The in-depth observation on microstructure and electrochemical tests suggest that it is the new preferred crystal planes and oxygen vacancies in CoWO 4 that improves conductivity and reaction activity to lead to a much higher capacity. Further density functional theory (DFT) analysis reveals that tuning the preferred crystal plane and introduction of oxygen vacancy into CoWO 4 not only effectively enhance electronic conductivity, but also promote OH− adsorption/desorption, and reduce electronic transmission barrier. As a result, the as-obtained carambola-like CoWO 4 microsphere with preferred crystal planes and oxygen vacancies delivers high specific capacity (493.7 C g−1/137.1 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1) with superior rate capability (148.6 C g−1/41.3 mA h g−1 at 15 A g−1). Moreover, the cycling-induced morphology evolution lead to unconventional capacity increasing during cycling. The as-fabricated A-CoWO 4 //6 M KOH//activated carbon (AC) BSH device exhibits a maximum energy density of 27.5 Wh kg−1 at 1031.4 W kg−1 and 95.7% capacity retention after 12000 cycles. This work provides a possible way to improve the electrochemical performances of other metal oxide electrodes with low-capacity and irreversibility. [Display omitted] • ●CoWO 4 with preferred crystal planes and oxygen vacancies was synthesized. • ●A-CoWO 4 electrode exhibits improved conductivity and reaction activity. • ●DFT reveals the effect of preferred orientation and oxygen vacancies. • ●The morphology remolding lead to an increased cycling capacity phenomenon. • ●BSH devices deliver 27.5 Wh kg−1 energy density at a power density of 1031.4 W kg−1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new MCGDM model combined with a bidirectional influence relationship is proposed. • The decision-making process takes different psychological attitudes into account. • The IBCSMDM method is developed to accommodate emergency environments. • An extended IT2FS way is implemented for reflecting the uncertainty in assessments. The COVID-19 pandemic outbreak spread rapidly worldwide, posing a severe threat to human life. Due to its unpredictability and destructiveness, the emergency has aroused great common in society. At the same time, the selection of emergency medical supplier is one of the critical links in emergency decision-making, so undertaking appropriate decision-making using scientific tools becomes the primary challenge when an emergency outbreak occurs. The multi criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) method is an applicable and common method for choosing supplier. Nevertheless, because emergency medical supplier selection should consider regarding many aspects, it is difficult for decision makers (DMs) to develop a comprehensive assessment method for emergency medical supplier. Therefore, few academics have focused on emergency situation research by the MCGDM method, and the existing MCGDM method has some areas for improvement. In view of this situation, in this study, we propose a new MCGDM method, which considers the bidirectional influence relation of the criteria, consensus and the psychological factors of DMs. It providers a good aid in emergency decision-making and it could apply to other types of MCGDM research. Firstly, DMs give their assessment in interval type-2 fuzzy sets (IT2FSs). Secondly, an extended IT2FSs assessment method and a novel ISM-BWM-Cosine Similarity-Max Deviation Method (IBCSMDM) are used for weighing all alternatives. The TODIM (an acronym for interactive and multi-criteria decision-making in Portuguese) can obtain the ranking results under different risk attenuation factors. Eventually, this extended IT2FSs-IBCSMDM-TODIM method is applied in a real case in Wuhan in the context of COVID-19 to illustrate the practicability and usefulness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To establish an Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse model, investigate the behavioral performance changes and intracerebral molecular changes induced by bilateral intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ/I.C.V), and explore the potential pathogenesis of AD. An AD mouse model was established by STZ/I.C.V. The behavioral performance was observed via the open field test (OFT), novel object recognition test (NOR), and tail suspension test (TST). The mRNA and protein expressions of interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in the hippocampus were measured via qPCR and Western blot. The expression of β-amyloid 1–42 (Aβ 1–42), phosphorylated Tau protein (p-Tau (Ser396)), Tau5, β-site amyloid precursor protein (APP) cleaving enzyme (BACE), insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Copine6, synaptotagmin-1 (Syt-1), synapsin-1, phosphoinositol 3 kinase (PI3K), serine/threonine kinase (Akt), phosphorylated serine/threonine kinase (p-Akt (Ser473)), triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1/2 (TREM1/2) were detected using Western blot, and the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1), Aβ 1–42 , p-Tau(Ser396), Syt-1, BDNF were measured via immunofluorescence staining. STZ/I.C.V induced AD-like neuropsychiatric behaviors in mice, as indicated by the impairment of learning and memory, together with the reduced spontaneous movement and exploratory behavior. The expression of BACE, Aβ 1–42 , p-Tau(Ser396), and TREM2 were significantly increased in the hippocampus of model mice, while the expression of IRS1, BDNF, Copine6, Syt-1, synapsin-1, PI3K, p-Akt(Ser473), and TREM1 were decreased as compared with that of the controls. Furthermore, the model mice presented a hyperactivation of astrocytes and microglia in the hippocampus, accompanied by the increased mRNA and protein expressions of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. STZ/I.C.V is an effective way to induce AD mice model, with not only AD-like neuropsychiatric behaviors, but also typic AD-like neuropathological features including neurofibrillary tangles, deposit of β-amyloid (Aβ), neuroinflammation, and imbalanced synaptic plasticity. [Display omitted] • Injection of streptozotocin into the intracerebral or intracerebroventricular in rodents is a mature animal model for extensive studies of Alzheimer's disease. • Bilateral intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin induced AD-like neuropsychiatric behavior in mice. • The formation of neurofibrillary tangles, deposit of β-amyloid, neuroinflammation, and imbalanced synaptic plasticity were induced in the hippocampus of mice by bilateral intracerebroventricular injection ofstreptozotocin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The influence of dynamic disturbance on population self-healing was analyzed. • Medium disturbance restoration rate is more conducive to population self-healing. • Global dispersal is not always better than local dispersal. • Some suggestions are provided for ecological restoration. The stability of ecological system is inseparable from the self-healing ability of population. Therefore, exploring the self-healing of population after disturbance is of great significance to deeply understand the ecological stability. By constructing a pair approximation model, the special explicit dynamics of one population on disturbance is studied in this paper. In which, dynamic disturbance (which can be gradually restored) is used, and the self-healing time of the population is investigated. Through a mass of simulations, some interesting results are obtained. At a lower disturbance restoration rate, the population self-healing time will not be affected by the spatial correlation of disturbance, regardless of the dispersal mode of population and the existence of competition. Compared with local dispersal, global dispersal has more obvious advantages at medium disturbance restoration rate. The increase of disturbance restoration rate is not always conducive to the self-healing of population, and a higher disturbance restoration rate will increase the self-healing time. The results can give us some insights on ecological conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to traditional RNN-based models, abstractive summarization systems based on Pre-trained Language Models (PTMs) achieve dramatic improvements in readability. Thus, in the field of abstractive summarization, more attention should be devoted to the faithfulness issue that predicted summaries are not factually consistent with source texts. To alleviate this disadvantage, we propose a novel S yntax- E nriched A bstractive Sum marization (SEASum) framework, which utilizes graph attention networks (GATs) to introduce syntactic features of source texts to generate faithful summaries. In the SEASum framework, the PTM-based semantic encoder encodes word sequence, while the GAT-based syntactic encoder captures explicit syntax, i.e., part-of-speech tags, parse trees, and dependency-based relative positions of source documents. A feature fusion module is introduced to incorporate encoded syntactic features into the summarization framework. Based on the proposed SEASum framework, we develop two summarization models: 1) parallel SEASum model, in which the semantic encoder and syntactic encoder work in parallel, a multi-head attention module fused two-stream features for the following decoding process; 2) cascaded SEASum model, which takes contextual word embeddings from semantic encoder as node embeddings for the syntactic encoder and employs highway networks to regulate information flow. Experimental results on CNN/DailyMail and Reddit-TIFU (short) datasets show our parallel SEASum model and cascaded SEASum model outperform state-of-the-art abstractive summarization approaches in the faithfulness measurement. The results also demonstrate that cascaded SEASum model is more effective than parallel SEASum model in boosting faithfulness. • A syntax-enhanced abstractive summarization framework, SEASum, is proposed. • SEASum incorporates syntactic features, i.e. dependency parse trees, POS tags, etc. • A parallel and a cascaded model are developed based on the SEASum framework. • Two SEASum-based models are tested on CNN/DM and Reddit-TIFU (short) datasets. • Both SEASum models achieve improvements on ROUGE and faithfulness metrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The α-MoO 3 -based materials have been intensively investigated as chemiresistive-type gas sensors due to their excellent sensing performances for gas sensing applications. However, there still remains formidable challenges for developing a simple and scalable approach to synthesize α-MoO 3 with controllable structures. Herein, we demonstrated a glucose-assisted combustion synthesis strategy for the synthesis of α-MoO 3 materials with controllable structures. They were obtained by heat treatment of the gels containing ammonium heptamolybdate tetrahydrate and glucose. Owing to the coordination interactions between glucose and heptamolybdate, α-MoO 3 -2 sample obtained by adding 1.8 g of glucose featured the highest oxygen vacancy concentration with an O/Mo atomic ratio of 2.61. The gas sensing measurements indicated that α-MoO 3 -2 had excellent sensing performances for detecting ethanol. Such ethanol sensor displayed the lowest detection concentration of 5 ppm ethanol, high response of 3.86 toward 20 ppm ethanol, and wide detection range of 5–100 ppm. This study sheds light on preparation of metal oxides with controllable structures on a scalable way for various applications. • A glucose-assisted combustion synthesis method have been developed to preparation of MoO3 samples. • The MoO3 sample thus obtained possesses high oxygen vacancy concentration and surface chemical-adsorbed oxygen species. • The MoO3 sample exhibits excellent sensing performances for ethanol sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructures and formation mechanism of the interface between pure aluminum and graphite were studied when performed the active brazing in atmospheric conditions using assistive ultrasonic vibration. At the C/solder interface, the active component (Ti) in the Sn5Ag5Ti active solder can reduce the surface tension on the surface of graphite through the interface reaction between Ti and C atoms, which is the dominant driving force during wetting process on the surface of graphite; at the Al/solder interface, Ag and Al atoms can form a type of substitutional solid solution due to occupy the positions of diffused Al atoms and affect the diffusion path between Al and Ti atoms under the brazing temperature, which can reduce the surface tension, lowering the energy of whole system and improving the wetting behavior of the liquid solder on the aluminum surface. The application of ultrasonic vibration can remove the surface oxidation films of the base metals and molten solders; hence, ultrasonic vibration can enhance the wettability of liquid solder on the surface of the base metals and accelerate the element diffusion rates of interfacial reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of non-invasive assay for the accurate diagnosis of progressive liver diseases (e.g., fatty liver and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)) is of great clinical significance and remains to be a big challenge. Herein, we reported the synthesis of strawberry-like Fe 3 O 4 -Au hybrid nanoparticles at room temperature that simultaneously exhibited fluorescence, enhanced X-ray attenuation, and magnetic properties. The results of in vitro fluorescence assay showed that the nanoparticles had significant photo-stability and could avoid the endosome degradation in cells. The in vivo imaging of normal mice demonstrated that the Fe 3 O 4 -Au nanoparticles provided 34.61-fold contrast enhancement under magnetic resonance (MR) guidance 15 min post the administration. Computed tomography (CT) measurements showed that the highest Hounsfield Unit (HU) was 174 at 30 min post the injection of Fe 3 O 4 -Au nanoparticles. In vivo performance of the Fe 3 O 4 -Au nanoparticles was further evaluated in rat models bearing three different liver diseases. For the fatty liver model, nearly homogeneous contrast enhancement was observed under both MR (highest contrast ratio 47.33) and CT (from 19 HU to 72 HU) guidances without the occurrences of focal nodules or dysfunction. For the cirrhotic liver and HCC, pronounced enhancement under MR and CT guidance could be seen in liver parenchyma with highlighted lesions after Fe 3 O 4 -Au injection. Furthermore, pathological, hematological and biochemical analysis revealed the absence of acute and chronic toxicity, confirming the biocompatibility of our platform for in vivo applications. Collectively, These Fe 3 O 4 -Au nanoparticles showed great promise as a candidate for multi-modality bio-imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-sectional area is an important parameter for spacecraft breakup debris as it is the directly measured data in space observation. It is significant for observing and analysing the spacecraft breakup event to accurately modelling the area distribution of the breakup debris. In this paper, experimental study has been performed on debris area distribution characteristics of spacecraft under hypervelocity impact. The tests are carried out at the ballistic ranges of CARDC. Aluminium projectiles are launched to normally impact the simulated spacecrafts at about 3.0 km/s. The simulated spacecrafts are made up of aluminium plates, filled with some simulated electronics boxes, each of which was installed with a circuit board. “Soft-catch” devices are used to recover the breakup fragments. The test results show that: 1) the relationship between the cross-sectional area and the characteristic length of debris, which can be obtained in the logarithmic coordinates by linear fitting, represents the debris shape characteristic in a certain extent; 2) the area-to-mass ratios of fragments show normal distributions in the logarithmic coordinates; 3) debris made of different materials can be distinguished by different peaks on the distribution curves; 4) the area-to-mass ratio distributions can be expressed by a linear superimposition of several normal functions which represent the main materials of the spacecraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hairpin fluorescence probe assisted isothermal amplification strategy was used for microRNAs (miRNAs) detection. The fluorescence hairpin probe was rationally designed by software NUPACK to reduce background signal. This isothermal amplification method consisted of two circuits. The amplification strategy not only could detect miRNA, but also amplified and reversely transcribed miRNA into DNA to enhance the stability of the target. The approach was ultrasensitive and as low as 8.5×10−15 mol/L miR-Let-7a, corresponding to 8.5×10−20 mol miR-Let-7a in 10µL, was able to be detected within 20min at 37°C. Moreover, successful detection of miR-Let-7a in a total RNA sample was also achieved. Thus, the rapid, simple, isothermal, and highly sensitive approach should be a promising tool for on-the-spot detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease, with cognitive decline as the primary clinical feature. According to epidemiological statistics, 50 million people worldwide are currently affected by Alzheimer's disease. Although new drugs such as aducanumab have been approved for use in the treatment of AD, none of them have reversed the progression of AD. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecule RNAs that exert their biological functions by regulating the expression of intracellular proteins, and differential abundance and varieties are found between the central and peripheral tissues of AD patients and healthy controls. This article will summarise the changes of miRNAs in the AD process, and the potential role of diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets in AD will be explored. [Display omitted] • MicroRNAs regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally responsible for regulating more than 70% of human genes. • In Alzheimer's disease, microRNAs in serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and brain tissue have been studied. • MicroRNAs are involved in the pathological process of Alzheimer's disease. • MicroRNAs are innovative treatment and diagnosis markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: With respect to group decision-making problems with multi-granularity linguistic assessment information, a new approach is proposed. Firstly, the computational formulae are given in order to transform and unify the multi-granularity linguistic comparison matrices. Secondly, the method of standard and mean deviation is applied to determine the unknown attribute weights, and the weights of the decision makers will be determined by using the extended TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution) method. Finally, based on the LWAA (linguistic weighted arithmetic averaging) operator, information on the preference provided by each decision maker is aggregated into the comprehensive evaluation value of each alternative, and the most desirable alternative is selected. The proposed approach expands the research in multi-attribute group decision-making with multi-granularity linguistic assessment information by both considering the weights of the attributes and decision makers, and objective weighting for them. A numerical example is given to illustrate the practicability and usefulness of the proposed approach. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The pull-out force of some outer walls against other inner walls in multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was systematically studied by molecular mechanics simulations. The obtained results reveal that the pull-out force is proportional to the square of the diameter of the immediate outer wall on the sliding interface, which highlights the primary contribution of the capped section of MWCNT to the pull-out force. A simple empirical formula was proposed based on the numerical results to predict the pull-out force for an arbitrary pull-out in a given MWCNT directly from the diameter of the immediate outer wall on the sliding interface. Moreover, tensile tests for MWCNTs with and without acid-treatment were performed with a nanomanipulator inside a vacuum chamber of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to validate the present empirical formula. It was found that the theoretical pull-out forces agree with the present and some previous experimental results very well. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Reported here is the synthesis of pyridine-functionalized porous polymers, which are designed as homogeneous-like base catalysts. These highly porous catalysts have adjustable pyridine contents, high BET surface area (312–649m2/g), large pore volume (0.5–2.0cm3/g) and rapid swelling property, thus they efficiently combined the advantage of both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. The exposure degree of active sites in our homogeneous-like catalysts has been evaluated by Cu2+ adsorption, giving similar capacity with homogeneously dissolved poly-4-vinylpyridine. In the Knoevenagel condensation, these materials exhibit excellent activity and stability compared with Mg–Al hydrotalcite and magnesia as well as homogeneous base catalyst of poly-4-vinylpyridine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Graphene platelet–glucose oxidase (GP–GOD) nanostructures have been prepared through self-assembly of GOD and chitosan (CS) functionalized GPs by electrostatic attraction in aqueous solution. The stable aqueous dispersion of GPs was prepared by chemical reduction of graphene oxide with the use of CS as a reducing and stabilizing agent. UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the resulting GPs and GP–GOD nanostructures. Furthermore, a glucose biosensor was constructed by deposition of the resultant GP–GOD on the surface of glassy carbon electrode. It was found that the resulting biosensor exhibits good response to glucose. The linear detection range is estimated to be from 2 to 22mM (r =0.9987), and the detection limit is estimated to be 20μM at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present paper presents the novel use of MC microparticles (MCMPs) as a novel fluorescent sensing platform for thrombin detection. The MCMPs were prepared by a nanocasting method using mesoporous silica (MS) NPs as a hard template. The general concept used in this approach lies in the facts that the non-covalent adsorption of the dye-labeled TA on MCMP driven by π–π stacking of DNA bases on MCMP leads to substantial quenching of dye fluorescence due to their very close proximity. However, the presence of target TB results in the change of TA conformation to quadruplex due to the quadruplex–TB complex formation. Because the binding between the complex and MCMP is not strong enough to guarantee the close proximity of dyes to MCMP surface, fluorescence quenching is suppressed. This sensing system has a low detection limit down to 0.25nM and exhibits excellent selectivity. We also demonstrate its application in human blood serum system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is known, for example, that the eigenvalues of the matrix , arising in the discretization of the wave equation, whose only nonzero entries are , and , are with corresponding eigenvectors given by . We show by considering a simple finite difference approximation to the second derivative and using the summation formulae for sines and cosines that these and other similar formulae arise in a simple and unified way. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fe-containing mesoporous materials (Fe-JLU-15) with various Si/Fe ratios (47–112) have been successfully synthesized by using semi-fluorinated surfactant of FSO-100 as a template. XRD, N2 isotherm, and TEM techniques indicate that these samples have worm-like mesostructure with uniform pore size. UV–vis and ESR spectra suggest that Fe species in Fe-JLU-15 are mainly tetrahedrally coordinated. Interestingly, compared with Fe-SBA-15, the efficiency of incorporation of Fe species into Fe-JLU-15 is relatively high. Very importantly, catalytic data in benzylation of aromatic compounds such as benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene with benzyl chloride shows that Fe-JLU-15 samples are very active and recycle catalysts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Hydrophobic functionalized nanosilicas with different alkyl chains were synthesized. • Synergy between HAHPAM and CMNP on thickening was found at high salinity. • The CMNPs markedly facilitate the cross-links among HAHPAM molecules. • The oil displacement mechanisms of the HAHPAM/CMNP hybrid were proposed. • The hydrophobic effect effectively improves the salt tolerance of HAHPAM/CMNP hybrids. The study aims to improve the rheological behaviors and oil recovery of hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) at high salinity by introducing nanosilicas. It was found that the combination of hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide (HAHPAM) and cetyl-modified nanoparticles (CMNPs) has a more substantial synergy for improving rheological behaviors of hybrid dispersions at high salinity, comparing with other HPAM/NP hybrids. The CMNPs markedly facilitate the cross-links among clumpy molecular aggregates of HAHPAM and made the hybrids more elastic. At a given HAHPAM concentration, there exists an optimal CMNP concentration at which the adsorption of nanosilicas on the polymer molecular chains is maximized. Under reservoir conditions, the HAHPAM/CMNP hybrid is more efficient than the HAHPAM/NP hybrid for enhanced oil recovery. The oil displacement mechanism of the HAHPAM/CMNP hybrid is attributed to the synergistic thickening and wettability change. The hydrophobic effect between HAHPAM and the CMNPs effectively improves the salt tolerance of the hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing efficient approachs to synthesize nitrogen-doped graphene materials is significantly important. Herein, it is reported that nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) had been successfully prepared by pyrolysis of poly(p -phenylenediamine)-rGO (P p PD-rGO) hybrids. The combined characterizations of Infrared (IR) spectra, Raman spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the structure of N-rGO. Most importantly, such N-rGO shows good sensing performances for simultaneous detection of ascorbic acid (AA), dopamine (DA), and uric acid (UA). The linear ranges of the sensors for AA, DA, and UA are 0.1 mM–4 mM, 1 μM–60 μM and 1 μM–30 μM. The detection limit for detection of AA, DA and UA are 9.6 μM, 0.1 μM and 0.2 μM, respectively. This work provides a highly effective approach for preparation of graphene-based materials for electrochemical sensing applications. • Nitrogen-doped reduced graphene oxide (N-rGO) had been prepared by pyrolysis of poly(p -phenylenediamine)-rGO (P p PD-rGO) hybrids. • The N-rGO shows good sensing performances for simultaneous detection of ascorbic acid, dopamine and uric acid. • This work provides a highly effective approach for preparation of graphene-based materials for electrochemical sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La 0.6 Sr 0.4 Co 0.2 Fe 0.8 O 3-δ (LSCF) is a promising cathode material for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Hence, structured LSCF coatings were deposited in this study by atmospheric laminar plasma spraying (ALPS) at the spraying distances from 150 mm to 250 mm. Particles with high temperature were obtained at low plasma arc power of only 15 kW. The microstructural characterization of the coatings showed cluster-like morphologies on the top surfaces and columnar features with large-scale vertical cracks at the cross section. An evolution mechanism of the coatings was proposed based on particle size. The movement of particles during laminar plasma jet depended on particle size, which was studied experimentally and by simulation to explain the selective deposition. The coatings showed lower polarization resistance when compared to LSCF coatings deposited by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) due to large vertical crack densities. The high output performance of the SOFCs with the LSCF cathode also proved this phenomenon. The results suggest that ALPS provides extensive options for SOFCs manufacturing. • LSCF coatings were deposited at the long spraying distances, although at low plasma arc power of only 15 kW. • The selective deposition depended on particle size was proposed to explain various structures of coatings. • Structured coatings with large-scale vertical cracks revealed lower polarization resistances compared to APS coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deficiency of green products from a quality perspective has attracted significant attention from consumers. The recurring explosions of smart cell phone batteries in recent years is why green products are deemed quality-deficient. However, few researchers has paid attention to this issue, and there is no consensus in the previous literature regarding the impact of returning defective products on vertical dual-channel management in closed-loop supply chains. According to past studies, there are two types of product returns: 1) defective item return and 2) waste product return. The model in our study is based on these two types. However, available studies are not based on this model. Second, we examine how closed-loop supply chain members determine the product quality and price in the presence of return on defective items. Based on our results, we design a revenue-sharing contract to motivate retailer's efforts in recycling waste products. Our paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed coordination mechanism in mitigating retail price competitions and enhancing the total profit of dual-channel closed-loop supply chains, compared to non-coordination models. In addition, we also provide a practical managerial insight indicating that it may not be wise to pursue a low return rate for faulty products by making expensive quality improvements, and the increased quality may even worsen the entire supply chain in some scenarios. • A coordination mechanism with revenue-sharing of dual-channel is modeled in CLSC. • Consider two types return including defective product and used product. • All optimal online and offline prices are concave functions with respect to quality. • Optimal profit of CLSC grows as sharing ratio increases under large basic demand. • Relationship between product quality and optimal profit of CLSC is uncertain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A simple method to prepare 3D porous rGO-Ag@Ag 3 PO 4 hydrogel photocatalyst. • 3D rGO as a reductant and a supporter can increase the photostability of Ag 3 PO4. • The rGO-Ag@Ag 3 PO 4 hydrogel photocatalyst has the synergistic effect of adsorption photocatalytic degradation. • The rGO-Ag@Ag 3 PO 4 hydrogel photocatalyst has good stability. A novel visible-light driven 3D porous network structure rGO-Ag@Ag 3 PO 4 (RAA) hydrogel composite photocatalyst with a synergistic effect of adsorption enrichment and photocatalysis degradation has been synthesized by a facile method and characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS, FTIR, DRS, UV–vis, TG, Raman, and XPS. RAA hydrogel photocatalyst with 3D porous network structure is not only favorable to increasing the absorption property for organic pollutants owing to a larger surface area and π-π conjunction property, but also promotes the separation and transformation of electron-hole pairs due to the good conductivity performance. The RAA hydrogel composite photocatalyst has exhibited the excellent removal capacity of organic pollutants which were about 1.94 and 1.10 times higher than those of bare Ag 3 PO 4 for the removal of MB and 2, 4-CDP in the dynamic system, respectively. The enhancement of removal efficiency was due to a synergistic effect of adsorption enrichment and photocatalysis degradation. The removal rate of RAA hydrogel composite photocatalyst has only a little decrease from 76.04% to 68.51% for 60 h of the photoreaction, showing the relatively good stability. The trapping experiment and ESR showed the main active species were holes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electroactive hydrogels, which exhibit intelligent deformation in response to electric fields, have garnered significant attention as potential actuating materials for flexible sensors, smart devices, soft actuators, and artificial muscles. In the process of converting mechanical energy to electrical energy, electroactive hydrogels can achieve efficient energy conversion and charge transfer due to their porous structure, high water solubility, flexibility, and electrical conductivity. However, the limited performance of single-functional electroactive hydrogels severely hampers their development prospects. To expand the application areas of these gels in self-powered devices, smart response devices, and other directions, there is a need to design electroactive hydrogels with multiple properties. In this paper, we present a systematic review of the mechanism and preparation strategies of electroactive hydrogels in response to electric fields. We also discuss the design strategy for electroactive hydrogels with multiple properties and provide an overview of the current progress in their applications. Furthermore, we analyze the role and advantages of electroactive hydrogels. Finally, we address the existing problems in electroactive hydrogel research and offer suggestions to solve them, and we hope that this design idea will inspire readers and researchers in the field. The article reviews the mechanism behind the generation of electroactive hydrogels and the design strategy of electroactive hydrogels with different properties, and describes the current status and challenges of their application areas. [Display omitted] • Exploring the mechanism and preparation of electroactive hydrogels. • Discussing the significance of electroactive hydrogels in various applications. • Examining the challenges and potential opportunities of electroactive hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the effective ways to improve the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors is to fabricate a combined electric double layer capacitor (EDLC)-pseudocapacitance system. In this study, we synthesized the composite material FeCo 2 O 4 @PC by hydrothermal method, which can enhance the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors by the synergetic effect of EDLC and pseudocapacitance mechanisms. A series of physical characterizations including X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to demonstrate the successful compositing of FeCo 2 O 4 @PC. And FeCo 2 O 4 @PC was used for the testing of supercapacitor and the electrochemical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD). The results show that the composite FeCo 2 O 4 @PC-5 possesses larger specific capacitance and excellent rate capability. This further confirms that the composite of the two materials can overcome their respective shortcomings and improve the overall capacitive performance of the electrode. The composite electrode material FeCo 2 O 4 @PC has great application potential and prospects in the field of supercapacitors. [Display omitted] • In composite material FeCo 2 O 4 @PC, PC and FeCo 2 O 4 are tightly combined. • FeCo 2 O 4 @PC can enhance specific capacitance and rate capabilities of supercapacitor. • The C s of FeCo 2 O 4 @PC electrode is up to 1046.4 F g−1 at a current density of 2 A g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past few years, protein hydrogels have attracted more and more attention due to their unique physical, chemical and biological properties. They have a more complex molecular structure than traditional polymer hydrogels, which leads to special properties like excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and responsiveness. The proteins used to construct hydrogels have similar structure and function with proteins in human body, which is an excellent bio-derived material with potential biological activities. Therefore, through the study of the flexible and diverse assembly mechanism of protein hydrogels, we can understand their special properties. This allows it to be used to construct rich and diverse biomaterials with a wide range of application prospect. In this review, we summarized the research progress of protein hydrogels. The different assembly mechanisms were briefly described, including self-assembly and co-assembly. Then we introduced properties based on protein, including responsiveness, adhesion property, biocompatibility, conductivity, self-healing and mechanical property. In addition, the applications of protein hydrogels in wound dressings, drug delivery, bioadhesion, and biosensing were reviewed. Finally, we summarized the current challenges in the field of protein hydrogels. The future development prospects in biomedicine, tissue repair, biosensing and so on were also prospected. [Display omitted] • Different assembly mechanisms of protein hydrogels were introduced. • Properties of protein hydrogels were summarized in detail. • Biological applications of protein hydrogels were elaborated. • Superiority of protein hydrogels compared to other hydrogels was described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the CW laser is used as a local heat source to simulate the extreme thermal environment generated by shock wave interference at discontinuities in spacecraft. The ablation behavior of the thermal protection material (C/SiC) is investigated under the combined impact of high-temperature airflow and the local extreme heat source. A novel multi-field coupling numerical computation software was presented to examine this strong coupling process of fluid-solid-thermal-ablation. The program was modified using the ALE + umeshmotion ablation calculation method in the ABAQUS software to mimic the process of the material's ablative boundary retreating under the action of the CW laser until the target was perforated. ANSYS Fluent software was used to do the numerical analysis of the high-speed airflow. The results of wind tunnel experiments and numerical simulations indicate that, compared to the effect of local heat sources in static air, irregular ablation pits are formed on the material surface under the action of local heat sources in high-temperature flow fields, resulting in higher ablation rates due to mechanical denudation effects. Analysis of the localization characteristics of the flow field near the ablation pit reveals that the shock wave generated downstream of the ablation pit leads to an increase in gas temperature, pressure, and density. When the ablation amount reaches a certain threshold, the gas in the ablation pit forms vortices, leading to an increase in local heat flow and pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-performance low-humidity sensor and moisture-enabled electric generator are prepared through a mesoporous silica-mediated polymerizable deep eutectic solvent platform. The strong hydrophilicity and high ionic conductivity of ionogels are the main reasons for realizing dual-function devices. This work provides a novel approach for the combination of humidity detection and utilization. [Display omitted] • Mesoporous silica/polymerizable deep eutectic solvent functionalized ionogels were prepared by UV light stimulation. • Mesoporous silica containing abundant hydroxyl groups can regulate the intermolecular forces in polymer networks. • Low-humidity sensing and moisture-enabled electric generation can be realized simultaneously through functionalized ionogels. Although technologies related to humidity detection and utilization, such as humidity sensors, atmospheric water harvesting, energy collection, and moisture-enabled electrical generation technologies, have been widely reported, there is still an urgent need for effective monitoring and utilization of humidity in low-humidity places. An ideal low-humidity sensor requires a high response, fast response time and low humidity hysteresis. Soft ion power supplies inspired by electric eels convert the chemical potential energy of ion gradients into electrical energy by utilizing humidity, but their production is challenging. This paper reports a new strategy for developing functionalized ionogels based on mesoporous silica and a polymerizable deep eutectic solvent (SiO 2 @PDES). Due to their strong hydrophilicity, high ionic conductivity, excellent adhesion, flexibility and mechanical strength, SiO 2 @PDES ionogels can not only detect low humidity but also generate electric power through a reasonably designed device structure. In the 5–30% RH range, the response of the SiO 2 @PDES humidity sensor reaches 1600%, with negligible humidity hysteresis (0.8% RH). As a biomimetic soft ion power supply, SiO 2 @PDES ionogels generate a high open-circuit voltage of ∼600 mV at 33% RH, which expands the environmental adaptability of moisture-enabled electrical generation equipment. In addition, the excellent moisture-enabled electrical generation performance endows portable wearable power supplies with high potential for applications such as charging capacitors and lighting LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The impact of distributed capacitance is eliminated due to the capacitance current can be ignored at the low frequency. • The low-frequency components only exist between the BES and the fault point, and will not flow to the opposite grid. • The least square algorithm is employed to solve the overdetermined equations, improving the accuracy of calculation. The fault current of the photovoltaic (PV)/battery energy storage (BES) hybrid power generation system contains harmonic components, which might cause the maloperation of the distance relay. The time-domain distance protection has attracted more attention recently. However, the distributed capacitance of long transmission lines negatively affects the performance of time-domain distance protection, which hinders its application. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an improved time-domain distance protection based on fault active control. By leveraging the fault active control capability of the BES inverter, a specific low-frequency characteristic voltage is modulated through the phase-locked loop (PLL). By injecting the low-frequency characteristic voltage, the influence of line distributed capacitance can be ignored. Thus, the accuracy of time-domain distance protection based on the equivalent R-L model of transmission lines is guaranteed, which is the first advantage of injecting the low-frequency characteristic voltage. The other advantage is the low-frequency components only exist between the BES and the fault point, and will not flow to the grid on the opposite side of the line. The accuracy of time-domain distance protection has been further improved. In Addition, the faulty line's derivative equations for different fault types are deduced based on fault active control. Finally, the least square algorithm is used to calculate fault distance. The proposed scheme's feasibility and effectiveness are verified through simulations in PSCAD/EMTDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naturally abundant seawater mineral was employed to engineer banana pseudostem and bamboo biochars through pyrolysis at different low temperatures for improving their adsorption capabilities for methylene blue (MB) and tetracycline (TC). The adsorption capabilities were greatly enhanced as the biochars were pyrolyzed at 300 °C with 50/1 (mL/g) dosage of seawater to biomass. For instance, the engineered banana pseudostem biochar exhibited 8.00 and 6.54 times higher adsorption capabilities than the corresponding pristine biochar for MB (447.79 mg/g vs 55.96 mg/g) and TC (100.59 mg/g vs 16.75 mg/g) at 25 °C, respectively. The characterization results indicated that a large number of carboxylates, lactone acid salts, and alkoxides were generated on the engineered biochar and a high cation exchange capacity was gained. The adsorption of MB was mainly attributed to cation exchange complying with hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interaction, whereas the adsorption of TC was realized by hydrogen bonding and complexation. [Display omitted] • Oxygen containing groups were regulated by seawater mineral-promoted pyrolysis. • Carboxylates, lactonic salts and alkoxides were massively generated. • High cation exchange capacity was obtained. • High adsorption capabilities were achieved for methylene blue and tetracycline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chlorella incorporated into hydrogels for continuous oxygen and bioelectric delivery. • Hydrogels offer mechanical support and create optimal microenvironment for Chlorella. • Hydrogels improve diabetic wound healing by enhancing proliferation and angiogenesis. Electrical stimulation and oxygen are vital for promoting cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation to repair damaged tissues in chronic wound healing in patients with diabetes. The effective oxygen production by Chlorella has garnered attention in the medical field, but the potential of extracellular electron production in skin repair has not been explored. Inspired by this, we developed CHPS hydrogels, a composite of polyacrylamide and sodium alginate, with Chlorella loaded in a semi-interpenetrating network. This network is formed by crosslinking acrylamide initiated by free radicals, with alginate chains dispersed within the network. When applied to wounds, CHPS hydrogels effectively protect damaged tissue, provide mechanical support to Chlorella against external forces, and create an optimal artificial microenvironment to promote the proliferation of Chlorella. Our study demonstrated that CHPS hydrogels exhibit remarkable fracture elongation and adhesion properties and continuously produce oxygen and bioelectrical currents through photosynthesis. Furthermore, the sustained release of dissolved oxygen and bioelectricity by CHPS hydrogels significantly enhances cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis, leading to improved wound healing in diabetic mice. These findings provide compelling evidence for further exploration of CHPS hydrogels as a cost-effective, simple, and accessible strategy for enhancing the clinical treatment of chronic wounds in diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In application scenarios such as astronautics, high-altitude aircraft, medical radiography, high-energy physics, and nuclear power plants, the irradiation resistance of electronic components is one of the basic requirements for their reliability. HfO 2 -based ferroelectric films have the advantages of high CMOS process compatibility, good miniaturizability, low operating voltage, and excellent irradiation resistance, which are the core materials for the new generation of irradiation resistance ferroelectric memories. In this paper, two kinds of metal-electrode ferroelectric capacitors, W/Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 /W (WW) and Pt/Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 /Pt (PP), have been prepared, and three gradient γ-irradiation experiments have been carried out on the two kinds of ferroelectric capacitors. The effect of metal electrodes on the irradiation resistance of Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 ferroelectric thin films was carefully investigated by comparing and analyzing the statistical laws of polarization change and rectangularity change before and after irradiation of a large number of devices. The experimental results show that the WW devices have better irradiation resistance than PP devices, and we further explain the irradiation resistance mechanism by first-principle calculations and finite element analysis to verify the credibility of the experimental results. Finally, we conducted a comparative test of the fatigue and wake-up characteristics of the WW devices before and after irradiation, and the results show that the prepared W/Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 /W devices can withstand very high total γ-dose radiation, reaching up to 13.86 Mrad(Si), and they are very suitable for the application of irradiation resistant electronics. [Display omitted] • The Hf 0.5 Zr 0.5 O 2 (HZO) thin films with outstanding ferroelectric properties were prepared. • The HZO ferroelectric thin films exhibited extremely high radiation tolerance (reaching up to 13.86 Mrad(Si)). • The effect of different metal electrodes on the irradiation resistance of HZO ferroelectric thin films was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present communication demonstrates a relatively green preparative route toward Au nanoplates in aqueous solution at room temperature with the use of tannic acid (TA), which is an environmentally friendly, soluble polyphenol, as a reducing agent. Such Au nanoplates exhibit notable catalytic performance toward the oxidation and reduction of H2O2. A glucose biosensor was further fabricated by immobilizing glucose oxidase (GOD) into chitosan–Au nanoplate composites film on the surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE). This sensor exhibits good response to glucose, and the linear response range is estimated to be from 2 to 20mM (R =0.999) at 0.65V and from 2 to 10mM (R =0.993) at −0.2V, respectively. The sensitivity of the sensor determined from the slopes is 49.5μAmM−1 cm−2 at 0.65V. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Calcined Ge-UTL encountered structural degradation under pure water solution at RT. • A simply ultrasonic treatment caused random arrangement of the formed cfi layers. • The stacking faults of cfi layers generated abundant intracrystal mesopores. • An excellent styrene epoxidation activity (TOF = 403 h−1) is achieved on Co-Meso-UTL. Co-zeolites with hierarchical porous are significantly desirable for the liquid-phase selective epoxidation of styrene that required relatively open reaction spaces. A typical UTL germanosilicate with the absence of organic structure-directing agent molecules inside pore channels suffered from severe structural collapse after ultrasonic treatment under pure water medium, originating from the unstable germanium-rich double four ring subunits. The simple strategy cleaved the weak linkage Ge-O bands and caused the irregular location of silicon-rich cfi layers. Subsequently, Co activity centers was incorporated into the framework through reacting with the abundant silanol groups located in the hydroxyl nests at room temperature. The random arrangement of mono- or multi- cfi layers induced the stacking faults and generated a large amount of intracrystal mesopores after calcination. The resultant Co-Meso-UTL catalysts favored the molecules diffusion of large-sized styrene and target products, improving the accessibility of Co active sites and exhibiting excellent catalytic performance in the styrene epoxidation reaction with single hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) oxidant. Especially, high styrene oxide product selectivity was also obtained through controlling appropriate H 2 O 2 -added content as well as reaction time, which possessed a highest turnover frequency value of 403 h−1 among the reported catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of good performance in the logistics industry contributing towards a low-carbon economy is widely recognised. However, there are few studies on carbon emissions performance for the logistics industry, especially at the city level. Therefore, this study attempts to analyse the carbon emissions performance of the logistics industry at the city level by examining sixteen cities within Yunnan Province. In particular, the Data envelopment analysis (DEA) model and Malmquist index from both the static and dynamic perspective were explored. To further capture the driving factors of the carbon emissions performance in logistics, the Tobit model was applied to perform regression analysis. The results indicate that (1) with regards to static performance, two northwest cities, Nujiang and Diqing, have reached the technological frontier; (2) regarding dynamic performance, although six cities have improved, the average dynamic logistics carbon emissions performance of all the cities decreases by approximately 5.9% from 2011 to 2015; (3) in terms of driving factors, the economic development factor is found to be positively and significantly related to static carbon emissions performance, whereas others indicate negative and significant relationships. • We investigate carbon emissions performance in logistics at the city level. • An empirical study on sixteen cities in China is conducted. • Logistics-related carbon emissions of sixteen cities have increased from 2011 to 2015. • Carbon emissions performance in logistics vary across cities. • Carbon emissions performance in logistics attributes to different driving factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The equilibrium CO 2 solubility of EMAB with designed structures was measured. • The pKa, reaction kinetics, and heat of CO 2 absorption of EMAB were evaluated. • Two novel models, i.e. Fugacity-activity and Extended C f model, are established. • EMAB is a potential CO 2 capture agent for use in amine-based PCC technology. The aim of this project was to develop a thermodynamic model for the vapour-liquid equilibrium of an amine-water-carbon dioxide system and to evaluate the CO 2 capture performance of aqueous EMAB solution. The structurally modified tertiary amine 4-(ethyl-methyl-amino)-2-butanol (EMAB) was chosen because of its molecular structure-activity relationship. Measurements were made of its equilibrium CO 2 solubility, viscosity, dissociation constant, and second-order reaction rate constant, and the heat of absorption was then calculated. Additionally, the novel semi empirical model (Extended C f model) and the novel rigorous thermodynamic model (fugacity-activity model) which take into consideration the association of the partial molar property and the equation of state were developed to predict the equilibrium CO 2 solubility. The models can provide reasonable prediction results with AARDs of 2.3% and 3.68%, respectively. Furthermore, the thermodynamic and dynamic properties of EMAB were analyzed and evaluated by a comprehensive method and compared with some new tertiary amines and traditional commercial amines. The study concludes that EMAB has good CO 2 capture performance and is expected to be one of the most promising alternative amines for post combustion CO 2 capture technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]