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This study aims to explore the morphology of void and compressive performances of CNTs-reinforced filament-wound risers under axial compressive loading. The porosity morphology and distribution induced by the filament winding process were measured and analyzed, revealing a transition from nearly circular to elongated voids with gradual growth in the size of the individual void as the winding angle increased. Failure modes of composite risers were comprehensively discussed to understand the progressive failure process and load-bearing capacity. The results indicated that failure mechanisms of composite risers mainly manifest as initial resin splitting at the end of the structure, cracks growing in the interwoven region and local buckling at the end of the structure, and local asymmetric buckling as winding angle increased. While the addition of CNTs enhances the brittleness of the substrate and leads to an increased probability of debonding and delamination. Furthermore, the experiment results demonstrate that the energy absorption capacity can be generally improved at larger winding angles for the composite riser with 3% and 5% of CNTs volume content. The maximum values of peak crushing load, mean crushing force, energy absorption, and specific energy absorption were observed in the circumferentially wound riser with 5% of CNTs volume content. • The shape of voids transitions with an increase in winding angle. • There is a slight sensitivity of the void content to the winding angle. • Failure mode is similar to the different composite risers with the same winding angle. • Large winding angles improve energy absorption for 1% and 5% of CNTs volume content. • Winding angle strongly affects the compressive performance but no nonlinear is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature-dependent material attrition and subsurface lattice damage of single-crystal AlN at various scratching depths/forces are investigated at atomic level using molecular dynamics simulation. An ultimate removal precision of depth down to monolayer of AlN is achieved based on the present temperature-dependent critical conditions. The number of worn atoms, positively influenced by temperature due to the reduction of hardness, increases exponentially with increasing normal force in the plastic domain. Archard-type wear coefficient K values calculated at different temperatures increase linearly with normal force, and the slope is independent of temperature. Independently of load and temperature, a wear coefficient normalized with the tangential contact area, K / A tang , is developed to interpret the removal efficiency of AlN substrate with diamond abrasive. • Temperature-dependent plastic removal of AlN was elucidated at atomic level via MD simulation. • Increasing temperature can promote wear of GaN primarily due to the reduction of hardness. • Atomic layer removal of AlN is realized over a wide temperature range. • Temperature-independent wear coefficient increases linearly with normal load. • A normalized wear coefficient, K / A tang , is developed to interpret the removal efficiency of AlN with diamond abrasive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Compressive properties of 3D graphene are studied by theory and MD simulations. • The unified constitutive relations of three kinds of 3D graphene are derived. • Compressive deformation mechanisms of three kinds of 3D graphene are discussed. • The configuration-property relationships of 3D graphene are elucidated. • Energy absorption capacities of three kinds of 3D graphene are analyzed. Combining molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and continuum modeling, the uniaxial in-plane compressive properties of honeycomb three-dimensional (h3D), triangle-like 3D (t3D) and non-equilateral hexagon 3D (nh3D) graphene are investigated to elucidate configuration-property relationships, and the constitutive relations of three kinds of 3D graphene are derived to evaluate the compressive mechanical properties. Based on theoretical and MD simulation results, it is found that the compressive stress-strain responses of 3D graphene can be divided into five stages. The compressive mechanical properties and deformation mechanisms of each stage are different. When 3D graphene is compressed, graphene sidewalls undergo rotations, bending and buckling deformations, collapses. Because graphene sidewalls of h3D graphene are prone to undergo buckling deformations, there is large locking strain in h3D graphene. For t3D and nh3D graphene, their high plateau stress is attributed to unique configurations. Moreover, we also find that with increasing graphene sidewall width, Young's modulus and plateau stress of 3D graphene gradually decrease. In addition to the above investigations, the energy absorption mechanisms and compression-unloading stress-strain curves of 3D graphene are also studied. It is found that there are extraordinary compression-recovery properties and energy absorption capacities in 3D graphene. Finally, the selection criteria of 3D graphene are proposed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterostructured Bi 3 O 4 Br/α-Bi 2 O 3 nanocomposites are prepared via in situ one-step self-combustion of ionic liquids. Tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) is employed to be fuel, complexing agent for ionic liquids, as well as the reactant supplying Br for the objective material. The ratio of Bi 3 O 4 Br/α-Bi 2 O 3 can be easily adjusted by controlling the amount of TBAB. The heterojunctions show higher photocatalytic ability towards both azo dye methyl orange (MO) and colorless pollutant phenol. The electron spin resonance (ESR) test and p-nitro blue tetrazolium chloride (NBT) degradation result indicate that generation amounts of superoxide anion radicals ( O 2 − ) over heterojunctions are less than that over pure Bi 3 O 4 Br. Photoelectrochemical measurements show that separation efficiencies of photo-generated electrons and holes are decreased after the combination of Bi 3 O 4 Br and α-Bi 2 O 3 . Work function test and scavenger experiments display that holes play key role for pollutant degradation and the position of holes on α-Bi 2 O 3 is lowered via hybridization. Thus, the enhanced photocatalytic activity over composites can be attributed to the position decline of α-Bi 2 O 3 valence band, thus improving the reactivity of holes in direct oxidation of pollutants. In this case, valence band position is confirmed to be more important than separation efficiency of charge carriers in affecting photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) was electrospun into fibrous membranes and then reacted with NaN 3 to generate azido-terminated PVC fibrous membranes. A propargyl-terminated poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) was also synthesized and then grafted, through click reactions, onto the azido-terminated PVC fiber surface. Protrusion-, scale-, and joint-like structures of the PNIPAAm grafts on the PVC fibers were formed upon increasing the molecular weight of the PNIPAAm grafts. The PNIPAAm-grafted PVC fibrous mats exhibited completely wetted surfaces at 25 °C because of their high roughness. The static water contact angle of the PNIPAAm-grafted PVC fibrous mats reached 140° when the temperature was increased to 45 °C. This thermoresponsive behavior was significantly greater than that of the PNIPAAm grafted on a flat surface. Temperature-responsive membranes were constructed having a pore size of 1.38 μm and applied as protein valves to block and release an antibody (fluorescein-conjugated AffiniPure goat anti-rabbit IgG). At 25 °C, the collection efficiency remained at 94% for antibody concentrations up to 60 ng/L. As the temperature increased to 45 °C, the collection efficiency decreased abruptly, to 4%, when the antibody concentration was greater than 20 ng/L. Accordingly, this system of PNIPAAm-grafted PVC fibers functioned as a protein valve allowing the capture and concentration of proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant protein-based diets (e.g., egg or meat alternatives) have emerged as a promising approach for developing healthy and sustainable food systems. Mayonnaise, a formulated sauce prepared by mixing vegetable oil, egg yolk, vinegar and salt, is probably one of the most widely used condiments in the world today. In this paper, wheat gluten (WG) as an available and low-cost plant protein ingredient was used to prepare and stabilize oil-in-water high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) as mayonnaise replacers via emulsification–evaporation method. Firstly, WG was dissolved into aqueous acetic acid/ethanol (55/45, v/v, pH 3.0) solution to form phase-separated WG particles, and then HIPEs were prepared through homogenization of high sunflower oil fraction (75 wt%) with WG particles suspension at 80 °C after evaporating ethanol completely. Compared with egg-based mayonnaise, HIPEs (especially for 1.0 wt% WG) exhibited very similar droplet size distribution, rheological behavior, near-perfect thixotropic recovery, and tribological property. These results demonstrated that HIPEs and mayonnaise might have similar sensory property and perceived texture such as creaminess, smoothness, and sliminess. The confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) indicated that close-packed oil droplets could allow them to form homogeneous oil-in-protein network microstructure in HIPEs and mayonnaise, which might contribute to high viscoelasticity, consistency, and correct texture. In addition, thermal stability of HIPEs was much better than that of the mayonnaise. Design and construction of WG-stabilized oil-in-water HIPEs may provide a potential strategy for preparing mayonnaise replacers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an onboard autonomous mission re-planning system for Multi-Satellites System (MSS) to perform onboard re-planing in disruptive situations. The proposed re-planning system can deal with different potential emergency situations. This paper uses Multi-Objective Hybrid Dynamic Mutation Genetic Algorithm (MO-HDM GA) combined with re-planning techniques as the core algorithm. The Cyclically Re-planning Method (CRM) and the Near Real-time Re-planning Method (NRRM) are developed to meet different mission requirements. Simulations results show that both methods can provide feasible re-planning sequences under unforeseen situations. The comparisons illustrate that using the CRM is average 20 % faster than the NRRM on computation time. However, by using the NRRM more raw data can be observed and transmitted than using the CRM within the same period. The usability of this onboard re-planning system is not limited to multi-satellite system. Other mission planning and re-planning problems related to autonomous multiple vehicles with similar demands are also applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study a thermo-sensitive switching membrane was prepared through grafting, using a click reaction, of an N -isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) derivative onto an electrospun poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) (PPO) fibrous membrane (EPFM). The PPO was first electrospun into a fibrous membrane, then brominated and reacted with NaN 3 to generate the azido-terminated EPFMs. A propargyl-terminated poly( N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) was synthesized and grafted onto the azido-terminated EPFMs. The surface roughness of PPO fibers was increased due to the presence of PNIPAAm grafts, such that the thermoresponse of the static water contact angle (SWCA) of PNIPAAm-grafted EPFMs between 25 and 45 °C was significantly greater than that of the same PNIPAAm grafted on a flat surface. Thermo-sensitive affinity of the membrane with water resulted the average pore dimension responded to temperature changes. Taking advantage of this temperature-responsive affinity, we applied the membranes as protein valves that blocked and released an antibody. At 25 °C, the collection efficiency was 90% for antibody concentrations of up to 5 ng/mL. Increasing the temperature to 45 °C caused the collection efficiency to decrease abruptly, to 7.5%, when the antibody concentration was greater than 1.5 ng/mL. Accordingly, this system of PNIPAAm-grafted PPO fibers functioned as a protein valve, allowing the blocking and release of proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the Bayesian melding method ( BMM ) for system reliability analysis by effectively integrating various available sources of expert knowledge and data at both subsystem and system levels. The integration of multiple priors is investigated under both linear and geometric pooling methods. The aggregated system prior distributions using various pooling methods including the BMM are evaluated and compared. Based on these integrated and updated prior distributions and three scenarios of data availability from a system and/or subsystems, methods for posterior system reliability inference are proposed. Computational challenges for posterior inferences using the sophisticated BMM are addressed using the adaptive sampling importance re-sampling ( SIR ) method. A numerical example with simulation results illustrates the applications of the proposed methods and provides insights for system reliability analysis using multilevel information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Failure detection, isolation, and recovery is an essential requirement of any space mission design. Several spacecraft components, especially sensors, are prone to performance deviation due to intrinsic physical effects. For that reason, innovative approaches for the treatment of faults in onboard sensors are necessary. This work introduces the concept of agent-based fault detection and recovery for sensors used in satellite attitude determination and control. Its focuses on the implementation of an algorithm for addressing linear drift bias in gyroscopes. The algorithm was implemented using an agent-based architecture that can be integrated into the satellite's onboard software. Numerical simulations were carried out to show the effectiveness of this scheme in satellite's operations. The proposed algorithm showed a reduction of up to 50% in the stabilization time for the detumbling maneuver, and also an improvement in the pointing accuracy of up to 20% when it was applied in precise payload pointing procedures. The relevance of this contribution is its added value for optimizing the launch and early operation of small satellite missions, as well as, an enabler for innovative satellite functions, for instance, optical downlink communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic solar array (PVSA) systems are the most widely used method for spacecraft power generation. However, in many satellite missions, the optimum orientation of the PVSA system is not always compatible with that of the payload orientation. Many methods, have been examined in the past to overcome this problem. Up to date, the most widely used active method for large costly satellites is the Solar Array Drive Mechanism (SADM). The SADM serves as the interface between the satellite body and the PVSA subsystem, enabling the decoupling of their spatial orientation. Nonetheless, there exists a research and development gap for such systems regarding low cost micro-satellites. During the literature study of this paper, individual orbital parameters of various micro-satellites have been extracted and compared to the rotational freedom of the corresponding SADMs used. The findings demonstrated that the implemented SADMs are over designed. It is therefore concluded that these components are not tailored made for each spacecraft mission individually, but rather, exhibit a generic design to full fill a majority of mission profiles and requirements. Motivated by the above analysis, the cardinal objective of the current research is to develop a low cost mechanism that will be precisely tailored for the use of a low Earth orbit (LEO) micro-satellite platform orbiting in altitudes of 500 − 1000 km . The design of the mechanism may vary from the existing miniaturized SADMs. For example, the preliminary analysis of the current research suggests, that the conventional use of the slip ring system as the electronic transfer unit can be replaced by a seMI Orientation Unit (MIOU). Systems engineering tools for concept generation and selection have been used. In addition, simulation and mathematical modelling have been implemented on component and system level, to accurately predict the behaviour of the system under various modes of operation. The production and system testing of the prototype has taken place and it has verified that the development of such a system, will aid the power generation of the solar arrays, while having a positive impact on the cost reduction of such satellites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we reported a food-grade Pickering emulsions with pH switchable properties based on soy peptides functionalized calcium phosphate particles (CaP). The nanometer crystalline CaP were synthesized according to the well-established wet chemical precipitation process followed by microfluidization treatment, and functionalized in situ with a pepsin released peptides of soy β -conglycinin. These peptides characterized with a large amount of carboxyl amino acid (Glu and Asp) residues, exhibit high affinity to CaP particles. The decoration of CaP particles with soy peptides enhanced their hydrophobic wettability and electrodynamics properties simultaneously. Hence, the surface modified CaP particles facilitate to construct interfacial crystal architecture and resulting stable Pickering emulsions and gels. The pH triggered switchable properties of the emulsion were established based on the pH-dependent dissolution-recrystallization transition of CaP. Stimuli-responsive Pickering emulsification will not only offer opportunity to create a sustainable way to improve oil and catalyst recovery, but also find interesting applications in food industry for phase release of the functional elements by on-demand strategies. The food grade status of both soy peptides and calcium phosphate might extend their applications for food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-stage deep eutectic solvents (DESs) treatment was shown to be an effective method for improving the utilization of certain DESs, and the specific order of pretreatment, such as malic acid/proline (MP) or choline chloride/oxalic acid (CO) during the first stage and choline chloride/urea (CU) during the second stage, resulted in better performance for enhancing the sugar yield due to the synergistic effect of the two DESs on biomass fractionation. Moreover, the presence of water during these processes could balance the loss of components by tuning the pretreatment severity, thus ensuring higher sugar yields. By eliminating the washing step after the first stage treatment, enhanced cellulose recovery and glucose yield were achieved for the CO-CU pretreatment in the presence of 5% water, and a simpler process was established with a glucose yield of 90.2% after a 3-h treatment at 100 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Space missions have traditionally been controlled by operators from a mission control center. Given the increasing number of satellites for some space missions, generating a command list for multiple satellites can be time-consuming and inefficient. Developing multi-satellite, onboard mission scheduling & planning techniques is, therefore, a key research field for future space mission operations. In this paper, an improved Genetic Algorithm (GA) using a new mutation strategy is proposed as a mission scheduling algorithm. This new mutation strategy, called Hybrid Dynamic Mutation (HDM), combines the advantages of both dynamic mutation strategy and adaptive mutation strategy, overcoming weaknesses such as early convergence and long computing time, which helps standard GA to be more efficient and accurate in dealing with complex missions. HDM-GA shows excellent performance in solving both unconstrained and constrained test functions. The experiments of using HDM-GA to simulate a multi-satellite, mission scheduling problem demonstrates that both the computation time and success rate mission requirements can be met. The results of a comparative test between HDM-GA and three other mutation strategies also show that HDM has outstanding performance in terms of speed and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By slotting an inlet at the head of the aerodisk, a channel through the spike, and the lateral jet outlet at the middle of the spike, the blunt body with spike-aerodisk can further reduce its aeroheating and drag. In this paper, the numerical simulation method was used to analyze the flow field structure of this spike-aerodisk-channel, the effects of the spike length, the aerodisk diameter, and the channel diameter on the drag and aeroheating performance of this spike-aerodisk-channel configuration were studied. In general, the lateral jet introduced by the channel from the stagnation region of the aerodisk leads to the shear layer separation in advance, pushes the separation shock away from the spike, enlarges the recirculation zone near the blunt body, avoids the interaction between the separation shock and the reattachment shock, increases the distance from the reattachment shock to the surface of the blunt body. The reattachment shock strength of the blunt body is weakened. With increased spike length and channel diameter, drag and aeroheating reduction are improved. With the increase of the diameter of the aerodisk, the aeroheating performance is improved, but the drag reduction performance continues to decline. Compared with the plain spike-aerodisk, the spike-aerodisk-channel is generally conducive to further drag and aeroheating reduction. In the range of research parameters, considering the effect of drag and aeroheating reduction and the structural feasibility, the spike-aerodisk-channel has the best drag and aeroheating reduction performance when the spike length is twice the blunt-body diameter, the ratio of the aerodisk diameter to the blunt-body diameter is 0.3, and the ratio of the channel diameter to the blunt-body diameter is 0.075. Compared with the plain spike-aerodisk of the same size, the aeroheating reduction efficiency is increased by 37.9%, and the drag reduction efficiency is increased by 16.0%. • Drag and aeroheating reduction mechanism of the spike-aerodisk and channel concept under hypersonic conditions was investigated by the numerical simulation. • Three influence factors were analyzed and compared comprehensively. • Combined spike-aerodisk and channel concept is a promising drag and aeroheating reduction technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive manufacturing has flourished as an advanced technique to process metals and alloys. However, this strategy usually introduces undesired defects that deteriorates the mechanical performance of structural materials. Herein laser shock peening (LSP) is proposed as an efficient strengthening approach to reshape the surface morphology of a prototypical dual-phase AlCoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) after additive manufacturing, in which remarkable strengthening is achieved. Combined electron back scatter diffraction and transmission electron microscope characterizations reveal that the mechanical enhancement is attributed to the grain refinement and accumulation of dislocations at the impact surface. In extreme condition of LSP, the grain refinement is not accommodated by the conventional dynamic recrystallization anymore, but a novel mechanism of parental columnar grain rotation which can be rationalized by a continuum-level theory from a geometrical perspective. The new mechanism is verified by large-scale atomistic simulations which further recognizes the critical role of multiple unstable dislocation slip and amorphization in formation of smaller grains under shock. Our strategy offers a promising pathway toward polishing morphology of HEAs and thus, prohibiting the potential intrinsic defected induced-mechanical degradation of the additively manufactured metals and alloys via novel microscopic mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TC insertion and LTR are the main variants in yellow-fleshed peaches. • LTR identified in Prunus ferganensis leads to yellow-fleshed fruits. • LTR identified in Prunus ferganensis anticipate than LTR in Prunus persica. Yellow/white-fleshed color, one of the most important traits of peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch.), is closely related to the mutation of the PpCCD4. Although three mutations have been identified in the PpCCD4 gene leading to yellow flesh peaches, it is still intriguing whether a new mutation mechanism exists. Here, we genotyped 335 haplotypes of the yellow-fleshed peach (Y) locus from around the world and found that a transposable element (TE) insertion in Prunus ferganensis (Kost. & Riab) Kov.& Kost, resulted in nonsense mutation in PfCCD4. We performed transient overexpression experiments on ripening fruit and confirmed that the LTR2 in the PfCCD4 exon produced a phenotype different from that of PfCCD4. By Illumina and Nanopore sequencing, we obtained genomic information of the homozygous insertion on the cultivar 'Xinjiang Huangrou', got the sequence and position of the variant, and further confirmed that the insertion is an LTR-type(Long terminal repeats) transposon (named LTR2), which is more ancient than the previously reported insertion, indicating that Prunus ferganensis may be one of the sources of the yellow flesh peach variation. The discovery of a new yellow-fleshed variant in Prunus ferganensis provides insight into utilizing the local germplasm resource for yellow-fleshed peach cross-breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Differential expressed noncoding RNAs among the healthy controls and the patients with AAA before and after underwent EVAR were detected. • 164 differentially expressed miRNAs, 179 co-differentially expressed lncRNAs, and 440 co-differentially expressed circRNAs were obtained. • lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network included 15 lncRNAs, 63 miRNAs and 57 mRNAs. • CircRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network included 79 circRNAs, 21 miRNAs, and 49 mRNAs. • AAA patients might be benefit from EVAR based on various pathways and some molecules related with shear stress. The aim of the study was to explore the potential molecular mechanism associated with shear stress on abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression. This study performed RNA sequencing on AAA patients (SQ), AAA patients after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR, SH), and normal controls (NC). Furthermore, we identified the differentially expressed microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNA (cirRNAs) and constructed competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks. Finally, 164 differentially expressed miRNAs, 179 co-differentially expressed lncRNAs, and 440 co-differentially expressed circRNAs among the three groups were obtained. The differentially expressed miRNAs mainly enriched in 325 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Target genes associated with co-differentially expressed genes among the group of SH, SQ, and NC mainly enriched in 66 KEGG pathways. LncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions, including 15 lncRNAs, 63 miRNAs and 57 mRNAs, was constructed. CircRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network included 79 circRNAs, 21 miRNAs, and 49 mRNAs. Among them, KLRC2 and CSTF1, targeted by miR-125b, participated in cell-mediated immunity regulation. MiR-320-related circRNAs and SATB1-AS1 serving as the sponge of miRNAs, such as has-circ-0129245, has-circ-0138746, and has-circ-0139786, were hub genes in ceRNA network. In conclusion, AAA patients might be benefit from EVAR based on various pathways and some molecules, such as miR-125b and SATB1-AS1, related with shear stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many studies have shown that both the nanotwinned structure and the graphene reinforcing phase can improve the mechanical properties of aluminum, but the synergistic effect of the two on the strengthening and toughening mechanisms of aluminum matrix composites has rarely been reported. In this work, the mechanical properties and microscopic deformation mechanisms of graphene/nanotwinned aluminum matrix composites under uniaxial tensile load are studied by molecular dynamics simulations. The effects of the distribution patterns of graphene and twin boundaries (TBs), their angles and the number of graphene layers on the mechanical behaviors of graphene/nanotwinned aluminum matrix composites are analyzed. It is found that the synergistic effect of TBs and graphene results in secondary reinforcement of aluminum matrix composites in the plastic stage, resulting in enhanced strength and toughness. Moreover, the elastic modulus, strength and toughness of graphene/nanotwinned aluminum matrix composites increase linearly with the number of graphene layers. By analyzing the microscopic deformation and dislocation evolution of aluminum matrix composites, the mechanisms of dislocation derivation and propagation induced by graphene and TBs are explored. In addition, it is found that there is a competition between graphene and TBs for the dislocation evolution, and the graphene can weaken the dislocation blocking effect of TBs. Finally, it is proved that the angle between graphene and TBs will weaken the mechanical properties of the composites. The effect of the TB angle on the mechanical properties of graphene/nanotwinned aluminum matrix composites is discussed in three cases, depending on the stress-strain curve and the microstructure deformation mechanism. • The effect of graphene and TBs on mechanical properties of Al-matrix is studied. • The influence of distribution patterns and layer number of graphene is analyzed. • The effect of the inclination angle of TBs and graphene is considered. • The mechanisms of dislocation derivation and propagation is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The viabilities of grain molds are notably inhibited by cold plasma. • DON and OTA toxins are significantly reduced by cold plasma treatment in rice grain. • Cold plasma has minimal effects on major nutrition and seed viability. • The types of FFAs increase over cold plasma treatment time. Few reports are on the application of cold plasma (CP) for mold and mycotoxin control in grain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the viability of CP for mycotoxin and mold control in rice grain. Rice grains artificially contaminated with molds or mycotoxins were subjected to CP treatment. The microbial activities of Aspergillus niger , Rhizopus oryzae , Penicillium verrucosum and Fusarium graminearum were significantly inhibited by CP treatment. The maximal reduction of DON and OTA were 61.25 % and 55.64 %, respectively. The electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde content in rice grain increased at most by 30.14 % and 103.27 %, respectively. The seed germination reduced significantly when treatment time reached 8 min. The major nutrients of rice grain were not affected except for prolamine, which was generally consistent with the results of electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared analysis. Cold plasma is a promising method for mold and mycotoxin control in rice grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While researchers have proposed a reciprocal and bidirectional relationship among students' perceptions of their learning environment, engagement, and learning outcomes in college learning, scant research has effectively tested this assertion using longitudinal data. The present study examined this relationship with the use of an auto-/cross-lagged longitudinal structural equation modelling across a lag of 2.5 years. University students' (N = 966) perceptions of the learning environment, engagement, generic skills, and GPA were surveyed and collected at sophomore and senior years. In addition to significant auto-lagged effects, the cross-lagged results showed unidirectional predicting paths from prior perceptions to subsequent engagement, and reciprocal and bidirectional relationship between engagement and generic skills. The results provided partial support for the reciprocity of these variables, and confirmed the important role of engagement in the process of college student learning, which extends previous cross-sectional findings in theoretical meaningful ways. •Longitudinally test the reciprocity of perceptions, engagement, and outcomes. •The auto-lagged effects were much stronger than the cross-lagged effects. •Significant reciprocal relation between engagement and generic skills was found. •Important role of engagement in the process of college learning was confirmed. •Academic achievement and other variables were developmentally independent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hong Kong is an international metropolis with a highly dense population. As a result, it faces enormous challenges in terms of land supply. As part of the Hong Kong Government's initiative to increase land supply, the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) proposed minor relaxation of the maximum plot ratio/building height restrictions for 21 target sites in Kai Tak Development Area (KTDA). Although CEDD has explored the feasibility of increasing development intensity by assessing environmental impacts, infrastructure capacity and public consultation, these reviews and assessments were conducted based on the 2D GIS. Since the spatial distribution of land unit in the real world is three-dimensional, 3D GIS can help us look into the world in true perspective and make informed decisions. This study aims to investigate the viability of minor relaxation of maximum plot ratio/building height restrictions of 21 sites in KTDA through 3D modeling and 3D spatial analyses, including skyline, visual impact, shadow and solar exposure. Regarding to the 21 target sites, four scenarios with different plot ratios and building heights were built and compared. The results indicate that minor relaxation of maximum plot ratio and building height leads to (i) minor effect on skyline (ii) minor effect on visual impact and (iii) slight changes in shadow and solar exposure both in winter and summer. Therefore, in light of the findings from this study, scenario 4 is the recommended reasonable scale to relax the maximum plot ratio/building height restriction for the target sites in KTDA. Besides, this study can also be applied in the urban renewal studies and other new development areas in Hong Kong, or even in other densely populated cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aureobasidium pullulans is an increasingly attractive host for bio-production of pullulan, heavy oil, polymalic acid, and a large spectrum of extracellular enzymes. To date, genetic manipulation of A. pullulans mainly relies on time-consuming conventional restriction enzyme digestion and ligation methods. In this study, we present a one-step homologous recombination-based method for rapid genetic manipulation in A. pullulans . Overlaps measuring >40 bp length and 10 μg DNA segments for homologous recombination provided maximum benefits to transformation of A. pullulans . This optimized method was successfully applied to PKSIII gene (encodes polyketide synthase) knock-out and gltP gene (encodes glycolipid transfer protein) knock-in. After disruption of PKSIII gene, secretion of melanin decreased slightly. The melanin purified from disruptant showed lower reducing capacity compared with that of the parent strain, leading to a decrease in exopolysaccharide production. Knock-in of gltP gene resulted in at least 4.68-fold increase in heavy oil production depending on the carbon source used, indicating that gltP can regulate heavy oil synthesis in A. pullulans . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioethanol fermentation of pretreated corncob was investigated using Spathaspora passalidarum U1-58, which simultaneously utilizes glucose and xylose for high-efficiency ethanol production. Two approaches, namely, separate hydrolysis and co-fermentation (SHCF) and simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF), were optimized to test the ethanol fermentation potential of U1-58. The highest ethanol titer of 42.46 g/L and yield of 72.12% were acquired in SHCF, whereas 53.24 g/L ethanol and yield of 75.35% were obtained in SSCF at solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:5 (w/v). Approximately 86.20% of cellulose and 82.99% of hemicellulose were consumed in SSCF after 96 h, and at least 10.49 g/L ethanol was produced from hemicellulose, which corresponded to 37.59% of the theoretical yield. Compared with the published cellulosic ethanol fermentation cases, the present work presented high ethanol titer and yield, and cellulose and hemicellulose could be efficiently utilized for ethanol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin, ASA) is a famous drug for cardiovascular diseases in recent years. Effects of ASA dosage on the metabolic profile have not been fully understood. The purpose of our study is to establish a rapid and reliable method to quantify ASA metabolites in biological matrices, especially for glucuronide metabolites whose standards are not commercially available. Then we applied this method to evaluate the effects of ASA dosage on the metabolic and excretion profile of ASA metabolites in rat urine. Salicylic acid (SA), gentisic acid (GA) and salicyluric acid (SUA) were determined directly by UHPLC–MS/MS, while salicyl phenolic glucuronide (SAPG) and salicyluric acid phenolic glucuronide (SUAPG) were quantified indirectly by measuring the released SA and SUA from SAPG and SUAPG after β-glucuronidase digestion. SUA and SUAPG were the major metabolites of ASA in rat urine 24 h after ASA administration, which accounted for 50% (SUA) and 26% (SUAPG). When ASA dosage was increased, the contributions dropped to 32% and 18%, respectively. The excretion of other three metabolites (GA, SA and SAPG) however showed remarkable increases by 16%, 6% and 4%, respectively. In addition, SUA and SUAPG were mainly excreted in the time period of 12–24 h, while GA was excreted in the earlier time periods (0–4 h and 4–8 h). SA was mainly excreted in the time period of 0–4 h and 12–24 h. And the excretion of SAPG was equally distributed in the four time periods. We went further to show that the excretion of five metabolites in rat urine was delayed when ASA dosage was increased. In conclusion, we have developed a rapid and sensitive method to determine the five ASA metabolites (SA, GA, SUA, SAPG and SUAPG) in rat urine. We showed that ASA dosage could significantly influence the metabolic and excretion profile of ASA metabolites in rat urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With respect to spacecraft attitude control, reaction spheres are promising alternatives to conventional momentum exchange devices for the benefits brought by their 4 π rotation. Many design concepts of reaction spheres have been proposed in the past decades, however, developments of the driving unit and the bearing, as well as their combination remain great challenges. To facilitate research and push developments in this field, this paper provides a comprehensive review of reaction spheres. To some extent, an in-depth survey of multi-DOF (degree of freedom) spherical motors and possible bearings is provided, along with their advantages and weaknesses addressed. Some multi-DOF actuators for different applications, such as robotic joints, are investigated since they share many similar challenges and techniques with reaction spheres. The experimental performances of realized reaction spheres are listed and compared. Limits of current designs are identified and their causes are analyzed and discussed. Compared with existing summaries on multi-DOF actuators and some surveys done for specific reaction spheres' design, this paper provides the first thorough review on reaction spheres, considering approaches to excite and support the free 4 π rotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A tethered-net is a promising method for space debris capturing. However, its deployment dynamics is complex because of the flexibility, and its dependency of the deployment parameters is insufficiently understood. To investigate the deployment dynamics of tethered-net, four critical deployment parameters, namely maximum net area, deployment time, traveling distance and effective period are identified in this paper, and the influence of initial deployment conditions on these four parameters is investigated. Besides, a comprehensive study on a model for the tethered-net based on absolute nodal coordinates formulation (ANCF) is provided. Simulations show that the results based on the ANCF modeling method present a good agreement with that based on the conventional mass–spring modeling method. Moreover, ANCF model is capable of describing the flexibility between two nodes on the net. However, it is more computationally expensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma-activated water (PAW) is a promising nonthermal technology in food preservation and food safety. The inactivation efficacy of PAW was investigated against Saccharomyces cerevisiae CICC 1374 inoculated on grape berries. PAW30 and PAW60 were obtained by activating water with plasma for 30 and 60 min, respectively. Grapes were directly treated with PAW, and a 0.38- to 0.53-log CFU/ml reduction of S. cerevisiae was achieved in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). The oxidation-reduction potential and pH values of PAW30 and PAW60 were also in a time-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Grape quality assessment demonstrated no significant change in surface color and total anthocyanin content after 30 min of PAW60 treatment (P > 0.05). Although grape quality was unaffected by PAW in this study, this technology should be optimized to enhance inactivation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We specify a general model of the dynamic abatement technology adoption process and show how the accumulated experience among them can alter the adoption timing. Learning-by-doing (LBD) effect is considered to describe the reduction of the costly price to the adoption. Moreover, spillovers effect which reflects how accumulated experience can be shared among different technologies, is integrated into the learning process. To ensure the specification convincing, some reasonable assumptions are considered such as one abatement technology must conduct its own experience in order to realize the spillover. Besides, to investigate how the abatement process is influenced by the technology allocation under the spillovers effect, an endogenous emission path is considered to necessitate a meaningful optimization problem. Finally, apart from obtaining some basic properties of the model, we implement an empirical study to verify the effectiveness of the model. Data from the iron industry in China is used to specify the process, which can highlight the spillovers effect among different technologies from a sector angle. In the results, we find that intrinsic mechanism in the model results in the interplay among abatement coefficient, spillover factor and the growing rate of the emission etc. Collaborative relationships between variables are discussed as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel terminal guidance system with a pulse-width-pulse-frequency (PWPF) modulator based on variable dead zone is designed for exo-atmospheric kill vehicle (EKV). At first, a three dimensional (3D) missile-target engagement kinematics is established on the line-of-sight (LOS) coordinate system, the guidance law is compensated by estimated maneuvering acceleration of target from nonlinear disturbance observer (DO). Secondly, a 3D terminal sliding mode guidance law with gradually increasing robustness is proposed for EKV, and the finite time stability of closed system is strictly proven. A PWPF modulator with variable dead zone is proposed to resist the sensitivity of LOS angle with relative distance decreasing, and the stability of modulator is proven by describing function technique. Finally, the guidance performances are assessed through a numerical simulation, the proposed guidance law is better attack precision than traditional guidance law, and the PWPF modulator with variable dead zone is more reasonable in fuel allocation and smaller on miss distance than traditional PWPF modulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As CO 2 emissions are quantified by allowances and traded in markets, wise trading strategies will bring emitting companies higher profits or lower costs. Based on the big data of Community Independent Transaction Log (CITL), this article hereby presents a micro study on the emitting companies' efforts in increasing profits and saving costs during the allowances trading in the first two phases of the European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS). The efforts are measured by an after-action factor of trading performance, which is built on a series of behaviour and monetary variables. By comparison, demanders of the emitting companies are more inclined to reach a higher trading performance, while that inclination is heterogeneous among the suppliers. In addition, emitting companies with lower emission levels had a better trading performance. With a higher proportion of low-emitting companies, the manufacturing sector had a better trading performance than the energy sector. The effect of the trading requirement on trading performance are investigated via a quantile regression mode. Results suggest that: (1) the selling requirement of suppliers has a positive effect on their trading performance, while the effect becomes weaker when the selling requirement increases; (2) the buying requirement has a positive effect on the demanders' trading performance only when the requirement is high, and the effect becomes stronger as the requirement increases; and (3) when the buying requirement is at a lower level, demanders' trading performance becomes worse as the requirement grows. The conclusion is that the emission level, industrial sector and trading requirement do have influences on the trading performance of emitting companies in emission trading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of sputtering due to cluster impacting which has been widely studied is an important but unsolved problem. In present research, we discuss the effect of the landing point on the sputtering with the method of molecular dynamics. The results show that the landing points play significant roles on sputter yield when the temperature of target is low. Specific landing points can cause particular sputtering patterns which lead to different sputtering yield and moving directions of sputtered atoms. The mechanism of this phenomenon is that specific landing keeps symmetries and anisotropies of target lattice, which influence the sputtering yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Risk coupling analysis of hazmat road transportation considering maritime environment. • A novel risk coupling model (AHP– N-K) is constructed. • Proposed model can simultaneously present the risk coupling degree and correlation mechanism. • Impact of the coupling risk on the accident is determined through a case. The complicated maritime environment and multiple risk coupling pose significant challenges to hazardous material transportation safety in coastal areas. This paper studies the risk coupling problems by analyzing 362 hazardous materials accidents. Firstly, the transportation risks are divided into 6 categories and 22 risk factors are identified. Then, the definition and types of risk coupling are determined. Finally, a novel risk coupling model is constructed by using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and N-K model. AHP–N-K model is used to calculate the coupling degree of risk factors. Furthermore, the correlation mechanism between the risk values and the risk components in complicated maritime environment is analyzed. The results show that the risk of hazardous materials transportation has a gradually increasing trend with the increase of risk coupling factors. Owing to the risk coupling of driver factors and road environmental factors, the probability of accidents is high. The coupling risk of subjective and objective risk factors is more likely to cause accidents than subjective risk factors. The coupling effect of rainy days and curves with other risk factors is very strong. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meconopsis integrifolia (Maxim.) Franch. is a representative species of the genus found in the East Himalaya-Hengduan Mountain. As a species of medical and horticultural significance, M. integrifolia is threatened by over-exploitation and habitat fragmentation. In this study, the genetic diversity and structure of M. integrifolia , represented by 183 individuals from 10 populations, were studied using 6 pairs of fluorescent Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms primers. Our results showed a relatively high genetic variation at the species level ( PPB = 82.0%, H E = 0.2356 and I = 0.3695). In contrast, population diversity was extremely low, as measured by Nei's genetic diversity index and Shannon's diversity index ( H E = 0.0317, I = 0.0480). Analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that among and within populations, the genetic variation accounted for 88.9% and 11.1% of the total genetic variation, respectively. In addition, Nei's coefficient of differentiation ( G ST ) was found to be high (0.8636), confirming the significant high level of genetic differentiation as well as low gene flow among populations of this species. The results of Neighbor-joining cluster, PCoA, and Bayesian assignment revealed similar genetic differentiation patterns, suggesting three main genetic groups that are concordant with their geographical distribution. Three main barriers—the Mekong River, the Yalong River, and a branch of the Yalong River—were detected using BARRIER software. The possible mechanisms and implications of these findings for conservation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we have developed a simple, sensitive and paper-based colorimetric sensor for the selective detection of Chromium (Ⅵ) ions (Cr (VI)). Silanization-titanium dioxide modified filter paper (STCP) was used to trap bovine serum albumin capped gold nanoparticles (BSA-Au NPs), leading to the fabrication of BSA-Au NPs decorated membrane (BSA-Au NPs/STCP). The BSA-Au NPs/STCP operated on the principle that BSA-Au NPs anchored on the STCP were gradually etched by Cr (VI) as the leaching process of gold in the presence of hydrobromic acid (HBr) and hence induced a visible color change. Under optimum conditions, the paper-based colorimetric sensor showed clear color change after reaction with Cr (VI) as well as with favorable selectivity to a variety of possible interfering counterparts. The amount-dependent colorimetric response was linearly correlated with the Cr (VI) concentrations ranging from 0.5 µM to 50.0 µM with a detection limit down to 280 nM. Moreover, the developed cost-effective colorimetric sensor has been successfully applied to real environmental samples which demonstrated the potential for field applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been performed to investigate the diffusion properties of hydrogen (H) atoms in body-center-cubic (bcc) iron (Fe) with point defects, i.e., vacancies (Vs) and self-interstitial atoms (SIAs). Firstly, the binding energies of a H atom to a H/SIA-H cluster have been calculated by molecular statics simulations. The results show that single-H diffusion should be the major diffusion mechanism in perfect bcc Fe and bcc Fe with SIAs, but for bcc Fe with Vs, results from literatures show that multi-H diffusion should be taken into account. Further, the mean squared displacements method has been employed to determine the diffusivities and diffusion energy barriers of single-H at different temperatures in perfect bcc Fe. The diffusion energy barrier varies with the temperature. Furthermore, the H diffusion properties with different point defect concentrations have also been demonstrated, which showed that diffusivities reduce as the point defect concentration increases and the influence of point defects reduces as the temperature increases. Especially, SIAs exhibit negligible effect when the temperature is higher than 600 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical properties of bicrystalline graphene nanoribbons with various tilt grain boundaries (GBs) which typically consist of repeating pentagon–heptagon ring defects are investigated based on the method of molecular structural mechanics. The GB models are constructed via the theory of disclinations in crystals, and the elastic properties and ultimate strength of bicrystalline graphene nanoribbons are calculated under uniaxial tensile loads in perpendicular and parallel directions to grain boundaries. The dependence of mechanical properties is analyzed on the chirality and misorientation angles of graphene nanoribbons, and the experimental phenomena that Young's modulus and ultimate strength of bicrystalline graphene nanoribbons can either increase or decrease with the grain boundary angles are further verified and discussed. In addition, the influence of GB on the size effects of graphene Young's modulus is also analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive indolo[3,2- j ]phenanthridine alkaloids, calothrixin A, B, and their analogues have been synthesized via formal cycloaddition of arynes and 2-aminophenanthridinedione as the key step, which proceeds through successive C–C/C–N bond formation and subsequent oxidation under transition-metal-free and mild conditions in the final stage of the synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dust velocity in fusion devices covers a wide range (several hundreds of m/s to over 10 km/s), which can cause various interactions between energetic dust grains and wall materials. Dust grain with low energy can influence the wall properties by deposition. Intense dust-wall interactions can cause serious wall damage such as sputtering, degradation, deformation and so on. As beryllium and tungsten are the material of the first wall and divertor, respectively, systematically molecular dynamics simulations have been performed to study the interactions between beryllium/tungsten dust and the beryllium/tungsten wall in the present study. A wide range of dust velocity has been considered to cover the velocity from experiments. Our result shows that the influences of dust on the wall are greatly affected by the impact velocity of dust grains and the properties of the wall material. A detailed analysis shows that the dust-wall interaction can be divided into four levels and an analytical model has been developed to explain the mechanism. Character velocities that separate the interaction levels are also provided by the model. The comparison between the MD result and the model shows a good agreement. Our result is helpful for the understanding of the mechanisms and the prediction of dust-wall interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A hierarchical porous carbon nanofibers-based solid phase microextraction method was developed. • Analysis of 8 kinds of alkylphenols in five minutes. • The elimination rate of alkylphenols in water was higher than 73.58% at 1 mL min‒1. Water pollution is becoming increasingly serious and seriously endangering human health, especially the direct emissions of phenolic compounds. An integrated sample pre-treatment and derivatization method based on a biopolymers/TEOS-based carbon nanofibers microextraction that allows rapid extraction (5 min), followed by separation and highly sensitive detection of phenolic compounds by gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, is described. The developed methodology, coupled with GC-MS, allowed low detection limits (0.03–0.32 ng mL‒1), good linearities (0.5–200 ng mL‒1) and recoveries (73.58–85.76%) to be achieved in a few steps and short time. Based on the high adsorption properties of materials, the on-line removal device of phenolic compounds in water was designed. The elimination rate of phenolic compounds in water was higher than 73.58% at 1 mL min‒1 and three cycles. The elimination strategy for the phenolic compounds is very versatile and is easy to apply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Solvothermal synthesis of pyridinium functionalized chitosan. • High efficiency of functionalized chitosan for methyl orange and Cr(VI) sorption. • A key role of pyridinium plays in adsorption. • Stable sorption and desorption properties for 5 successive cycles. A pyridinium functionalization chitosan (PCS) at high yield was facilely and solvothermally obtained from reactions of chitosan with N-2,4-dinitrophenyl-pyridinium chloride. The morphology and physical–chemical properties of PCS were tested with various techniques. Its sorption behaviors towards methyl orange (MO) and Cr(VI) were systematically investigated. Pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir equations well fitted the sorption kinetics and isotherms, respectively. Thermodynamics analyses revealed the spontaneous and endothermic sorption of these two contaminants. PCS exhibited high sorption capacity of 1649.30 mg·g−1 MO and 200.46 mg·g−1 Cr(VI) at 308 K. The superior sorption performance of PCS over MO is ascribed to ion exchange, intermolecular hydrogen bond, and electrostatic and π-π interactions, while sorption of PCS over Cr(VI) is mainly driven by electrostatic forces, reduction and ion exchange. Moreover, the PCS exceeded 95 % of its original capacities during five cycles. This high sorption capacities and high reusability make PCS an excellent sorbent candidate towards anionic contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs) play a vital role in the maintenance of corneal transparency and visual acuity. In our daily life, HCEnCs are inevitably exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation leading to decreases of visual acuity and corneal transparency resulting in visual loss eventually. Therefore, understanding the UVB-induced cytotoxicity in HCEnCs is of importance for making efficient strategies to protect our vision from UVB-damage. However, in-depth knowledge about UVB-induced cytotoxicity in HCEnCs is missing. Herein, we pulse-irradiated the HCEnCs in vitro with 150 mJ/cm2 UVB (the environmental dose) at each subculture for 4 passages to explore the insights into UVB-induced phototoxicity. The results showed that the UVB-treated HCEnCs exhibit typical senescent characteristics, including significantly enlarged relative cell area, increased senescence-associated β-galactosidase positive staining, and upregulated p16INK4A and senescence associated secretory phenotypes (SASPs) such as CCL-27, IL-1α/6/8/10, TGF-β1 and TNF-α, as well as decreased cell proliferation and Lamin B1 expression, and translocation of Lamin B1. Furthermore, we explored the causative mechanisms of senescence and found that 150 mJ/cm2 UVB pulse-irradiation impairs DNA to activate DNA damage response (DDR) pathway of ATM—p53—p21WAF1/CIP1 with downregulated DNA repair enzyme PARP1, leading to cell cycle arrest resulting in DDR-mediated senescence. Meanwhile, UVB pulse-irradiation also elicits a consistent increase of ROS production to aggravate DNA damage and impose oxidative stress on energy metabolism leading to metabolic disturbance resulting in metabolic disturbance-mediated senescence. Altogether, the repeated pulse-irradiation of 150 mJ/cm2 UVB induces HCEnC senescence via both DDR pathway and energy metabolism disturbance. [Display omitted] • UVB-irradiation induces senescence of the human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs). • UVB-irradiation impairs DNA and engenders oxidative stress (OS) in the HCEnCs. • The DNA damage induces senescence of the HCEnCs via DNA damage response pathway. • The OS elicits energy metabolic disturbance resulting in senescence of the HCEnCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sichuan-Tibet Railway traverses the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China, where giant landslides occur frequently and densely. Accurately assessing the velocity, runout distance, and influenced area of the potential landslides is one of the nonnegligible scientific and technical issues. This study establishes a dynamic model for the landslide runout assessment along the Sichuan-Tibet Railway. The proposed model is based on the shallow water theory and takes into account the mechanism that the friction is weakening with the increase of velocity, the finite difference method is used to solve the governing equations, and the ideal one-dimensional dam break experiment was used to verify the shock-capturing capacity of the numerical methods. The Lagang ancient landslide, only 500 m away from the Jiacha Station of the Sichuan-Tibet Railway, represents the typical environment and development pattern of landslides in this region. Therefore, the proposed model is applied to discuss its effects on the landslide dynamic process and deposit patterns. Besides, 75 sets of numerical experiments were further carried out to explore the sensibility of the three parameters including peak friction coefficient μ p , steady friction coefficient μ s , and critical velocity V c in this model. The results indicate that μ s determine the lower limit of the friction coefficient, which significantly impacts the landslide runout distance; μ p is mainly acting at the initial and final stage and has less influence on the landslide dynamic. By contrast, V c is the most significant. When the V c is small, the landslide can quickly reach the threshold velocity after the initial, and the dynamic process has a small correlation with the μ p ; when the V c is large, the landslide is difficult to reach the threshold, and the mobility will be limited. It should be noted that the materials, lithology, strength, and micro-cracks of landslides mass formed under the special geological, geomorphic, and climatic conditions in this region may affect the input values when using the friction weakening model on landslides risk assessment. • Established a numerical method for landslide risk assessment in the Sichuan-Tibet railway area • The parameters sensitivity of the resistance weakening model was discussed based numerical tests • Provides a calibration basis and range for the parameters required to apply the model [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In situ self-boosting catalytic synthesis of hierarchical CNF-CNT/TMS architecture. • CNF/CNT doped with rich N, S. • TMS as the catalyst for secondary CNT branches growth. • Integrating of conductivity, absoption and catalysis. • Ultrastable long-life (1000 cycles) and high-rate performance (6C). Advanced hierarchical carbon-based hybrid (CH) nanostructures, typical carbon nanotubes/carbon nanofibers hybrid (CNT-CNF), with rationally tailored components, structures, and chemistries, have been widely dedicated to potential energy storage and conversion applications. Here we report a facile methodology for the synthesis of precise hierarchical heteroatom-doped carbon hybrid / transition metal sulfide (CNF-CNT/TMS) nanostructure assemblies with novel in-situ formed TMSs as the catalysts for secondary CNTs growth via a self-boosting catalytic pyrolysis. The key to in situ growth of CNT arrays is obtaining small high active TMS nanocatalysts and sufficient supply of carbon sources originated from polystyrene. Such special structure provides abundant active sites, beneficial for the application of N, S codoped CNF-CNT/TMS hybrid film in the electrochemistry without introducing extra dopants. As a proof-of-concept application, the representative CNF-CNT/Co 9 S 8 hybrid was exploited as a conductive and catalytic membrane reactor in a lithium–sulfur (Li-S) battery. This unique architecture can achieve a maximized synergistic effect of electron/ion transport, polysulfide entrapment and catalytic conversion, which enables significant enhancement in electrochemical performance of Li-S batteries. As anticipated, the Li-S battery exhibits ultrastable long-life (over 1000 cycles, with an ultralow decay of 0.034% per cycle) and high-rate performance (6 C). Moreover, at high loading of sulfur of 3.7 mg cm−2, stable cycling performance with high capacity retention can still be achieved after long-term tests. This work also presents a facile and effective strategy in the development of complex hierarchical carbon nanostructure, which may be a competitive candidate in other energy storage and conversion system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) is a key negative emission technology in response to climate change. The industrial chain of BECCS is composed of multi-agent participants: farmers, middlemen, enterprises. This paper fills a gap in BECCS research by establishing a tripartite evolutionary game model and conducting system dynamics simulation to analyze the participants' interaction and strategy choices on system equilibrium in supply chain of BECCS under vertical integration operation model, and further discussing the influence of policy incentives on BECCS. The results show that the willingness of both enterprises and middlemen participate in the cooperation is very low under current scenario. Therefore, appropriate incentives must be taken to promote commercial deployment of BECCS. From sensitivity analysis, the following useful references for practical applications of BECCS in the future are obtained: Compared with other factors, costs of carbon storage have a more significant impact on the evolutionary trajectories and are highly sensitive to evolutionary equilibrium. The government should subsidize carbon utilization and electricity tariffs, but could not provide an initial investment subsidy for BECCS retrofit. Vigorously developing middlemen and promoting the improvement of carbon trading market and carbon tax policies are also of great significance to implementation of BECCS. • We analyze Bioenergy with carbon capture and storage in vertical integration model. • The industrial chain of BECCS is composed of farmers, middlemen, enterprises. • A tripartite evolutionary game model is built to analyze multi-agent interaction. • Willingness of players participate in cooperation is low under current scenario. • Appropriate incentives must be taken to promote the deployment of BECCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a two-step strategy for fabricating soy protein-based microgel particles was introduced. Gel preparation and homogenization made up the two steps. Microgel particles with nano-scale size were obtained by homogenizing the hydrogel made from soy protein isolate (SPI) with the addition of microbial transglutaminase (MTGase). Colloidal stability, surface hydrophobicity and interfacial properties of the microgel particles were systematically investigated. We confirmed that the microgels had a more rigid conformation when compared to that of SPI, which was attributed to the covalent cross-links inside the microgels formed during gel preparation. By comparison with SPI, the microgel particles with three-phase contact angles more close to 90° exhibited lower surface activity, weaker intermolecular interactions at the interface. We found that most of the microgels adsorbed at the interface and stabilize Pickering type oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion at the pH around the isoelectric point of SPI. The resulting emulsion had good storage stability for 8 weeks. This preparation method, which requires simple operation and common devices, provides a new perspective of fabricating edible functional particulates for food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-organized vertically aligned or entangled randomly-oriented carbon nanotubes films filled with ferromagnetic Fe-based phases have recently attracted a great attention for numerous applications as potential electrodes. However the large difference between their synthesis –i) methods, -ii) parameters or –iii) the specific hydrocarbons-requirement have posed many challenges in the growth-selection of one of these film-morphologies. Another important issue is the brittleness of the first type of films which is generally due to low intimate contacts between each carbon nanotube comprised in the vertically aligned films and limits their direct implementation into applications. We propose an advanced low-flow rate chemical vapour deposition approach which allows the selection of either a free-standing flexible film comprising vertically aligned carbon nanotubes filled with large quantities of Fe 3 C particles or a free-standing flexible buckypaper comprising entangled randomly-oriented carbon nanotubes films partially filled with Fe 3 C through the simple control of the evaporation temperature of the used precursors consisting of large quantities of ferrocene and very low concentrations of dichlorobenzene. The morphological, cross sectional and structural properties of the obtained nanostructures are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autonomous cluster operation such as cluster reconfiguration is one of the enabling technologies for fractionated spacecraft. By virtue of the multi-agent system theory, this paper presents an organizational architecture for fractionated spacecraft, which not only enables autonomous cluster operations but also facilitates its non-traditional attributes. Within this organizational architecture, a decentralized framework is proposed to solve cluster reconfiguration problems based on primal and dual decomposition, where subgradient methods are adopted to include reconfiguration cases with non-differentiable objectives. Two typical constraints are considered: final configuration constraints representing coupling variables and collision avoidance constraints representing coupling constraints, both of which are non-convex. General schemes are proposed to convexify those constraints via the linearization and convex restriction technology. Then final configuration constraints are tackled by primal decomposition, while collision avoidance constraints by dual decomposition. To the end, multi-level primal and dual decompositions are employed to solve reconfiguration problems with both coupling variables and coupling constraints. For illustration an example of in-plane cluster reconfiguration is solved and compared with the centralized approach the solution is optimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]