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SrTiO 3 (STO) is considered a promising high-temperature N-type thermoelectric material. However, its intrinsic insulating properties and high thermal conductivity limit the dimensionless quality factor (zT) due to its simple crystal structure and the existence of light elements. Along these lines, in this work, the optimization of the thermoelectric properties of STO-based materials was achieved by using the high temperature and high pressure (HPHT) method and adjusting the doping ratios of the La and Nb heavy elements. To enhance the doping effect, oxygen vacancies need to be formed within the sample. For this reason, titanium powder was added to the sample. Due to the confined environment induced by the high pressure, which can be attributed to the application of the HPHT method and the strong oxygen trapping ability of Ti at high temperatures, a reducing environment was attained for the samples, the latter, promoted the formation of oxygen vacancies in the synthesized samples, and semiconducting properties were achieved. The thermoelectric properties and microscopic morphology of the synthesized samples with different doping ratios of La and Nb were also thoroughly investigated. Finally, the maximum zT value obtained for the samples was 0.28@973 K. A fast, simple, and effective method for the preparation of oxygen-deficient packet-crystalline oxide materials was developed in this work, which paves the way for significantly improving their thermoelectric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SrTiO 3 (STO)-based perovskite oxide is regarded as a promising high-temperature n-type thermoelectric material. However, its intrinsic high thermal conductivity leads to poor thermoelectric properties. Using entropy engineering, lower thermal conductivity can be obtained. However, the high configuration entropy can also lead to poor carrier mobility, which inhibits electron transport and consequently reduces the electrical conductivity. Along these lines, in this work, an ultra-low thermal conductivity was obtained, which is significantly lower than the majority of the values reported in the literature, and the concept of phononic glass electronic crystal was attained at the same time. The enhanced effective scattering of phonons through the multi-scale defects gives rise to a low thermal conductivity of 1.8 W m−1 K−1 at 973K. Optimization of electrical properties due to in situ reduction at high temperature and pressure，the high-entropy ceramics possess the maximum power factor of 7.03 μW cm−1 K−2 at 973K. The application of high pressure is considered an important approach for the development of new materials with special properties. A new strategy for the composition design and in-situ reduction of oxide thermoelectric materials was provided in this work, which paves the way for the optimization and application of both the electrical and thermal properties of perovskite-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The alkali and alkaline earth metals (AAEMs) in the inherent metallic minerals of biomass have a crucial effect on the pyrolysis process. In our previous work, the experiments mainly investigated the effects of Fe–Co catalysts on pine needle (PN) pyrolysis. This work further explored the synergistic effect of AAEMs (K, Ca, Na, and Mg) with Fe–Co-catalyzed biomass pyrolysis. The results showed that AAEMs in biomass could improve the gas yield by promoting decarbonization, decarboxylation, and hydrocarbon conversion. Adding Co to Fe enhanced the stability and anti-coking properties of the catalyst, which facilitated the breakage of C –H/C–C bonds and the conversion of oxygenated compounds to hydrocarbons, increasing the H2 yield (13.99 mL/g → 92.50 mL/g). AAEMs enhanced the catalytic activity of Fe–Co catalysts with high selectivity for H 2 (92.50 mL/g→104.81 mL/g) and CO (65.00 mL/g→73.65 mL/g). The characterization results showed that AAEMs promoted the reduction of Fe–Co catalyst and the dispersion of metal active sites, which facilitated the transition from disordered to ordered carbon and the removal of oxygen functional groups such as O –H, thus increasing the CO yield, while the effective cleavage of CH 4 and C 2 compounds and the dehydrogenation of organic components promoted the increase of H 2 yield, and the activity followed Na > Ca > Mg > K. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury and ferrous iron commonly co-exist in anaerobic environments, the hotspots of microbial mercury methylation that leads to formation of neurotoxic methylmercury. However, the influence of ferrous iron on mercury bioavailability and methylation remains unclear. Here, we discover that microbial methylmercury production is inhibited by iron addition in a non-monotonical manner, reaching the minimal level at the initial molar ratio of dissolved Fe/Hg as 1/3, when highly aggregated Hg–S–Fe nanoparticles occur and prevent the nanoparticle–bacteria interactions. The dominant mercury species formed upon Hg–S–Fe co-precipitation is iron-incorporated nano-metacinnabar with short-range structural disorder. The methylation potential of this mercury species is inversely correlated with the aggregation state of nanoparticles. The non-monotonical trends of the aggregation state and subsequent methylation of nano-metacinnabar are due to the opposite effects of ferrous iron on the nucleation and particle attachment that determine the formation of nanoparticle aggregates. Increased Fe/Hg ratio hinders particle nucleation and thus decreases the density of particle monomers for aggregation. However, Fe substitution of sub-surface Hg weakens the inner-sphere coordination of surface Hg with natural thiol ligands and consequently enhances nano-metacinnabar aggregation. This new mechanistic insight is important for assessing and minimizing the risks of mercury methylation, and informs how intertwined iron and sulfur cycling may influence metal bioavailability in the changing environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium oxide is a promising thermoelectric material because of its high stability and low cost. We synthesize novel titanium-niobium-oxygen composite ceramics directly from elementary substance Nb and TiO 2 under high-pressure and high-temperature (HPHT) in this work. Elemental substance Nb will reduce TiO 2 to Magnèli phase titanium oxide at high pressure and high temperature. In this process, elemental substance Nb is oxidized to various niobium oxides. The experimental results show that the composite ceramics have a special 'pore' microstructure, and their thermoelectric and mechanical properties are very prominent among metal oxide thermoelectric materials. After repeated tests, the optimum concentration sample zT value is 0.313 at 973 k, with a Vickers hardness of 7.06. This work provides a novel concept for improving the performance of TiO 2 by reducing it with metal elementary substances other than Ti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To make full use of the flexible adjustment capability of DC tie-lines in multiarea AC/DC systems and to coordinate the generation resources and load demand of multiarea AC/DC systems, this paper presents an intraday two-stage hierarchical optimal scheduling model for multiarea AC/DC systems based on analytical target cascading (ATC). To avoid repeated adjustment and overadjustment of DC tie-lines after wind power integration, a two-stage rolling coordinated scheduling model for the area subsystem based on model predictive control (MPC) is proposed. The two-stage rolling coordinated scheduling method takes into consideration the influence of the predicted value in the future finite time domain and the latest measured DC tie-line power on the current scheduling state. Based on the ATC and the area decomposition criterion of the AC/DC grid, an optimal scheduling model for the upper-level system is proposed that takes into consideration the DC tie-line adjustment constraints and the area coupling constraints. The optimal scheduling model for the upper-level system formulates the two-stage DC tie-line plan for the multiarea AC/DC system, and the two-stage rolling coordinated scheduling model of the area subsystem solves the subproblems of the generation plan for each area subsystem in a parallel manner considering the area coupling constraints. The proposed method can achieve intraday two-stage decoupling scheduling of multiarea AC/DC systems and promote the cross-area consumption of large-scale wind power through flexible adjustment of the DC tie line. This approach also reduces the communication burden between the area subsystems and ensures the efficiency of the solution algorithm. • Based on analytical target cascading technology (ATC), we integrate the hierarchical control structure of decomposition-coordination into the model predictive control (MPC) method to achieve decentralized dispatch for multiarea AC/DC systems. • A two-stage rolling coordinated scheduling model for the area subsystem considering the area coupling constraints based on the MPC is proposed. • Based on the ATC and the area decomposition criterion of the AC/DC grid, an optimal scheduling model for the upper-level system is proposed. • Flexible adjustment of the DC tie-line and decoupling scheduling of multiarea AC/DC systems are achieved. • The hierarchical optimal scheduling model reduces the communication burden between the subsystems and ensures the efficiency of the solution algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform a numerical evaluation on manipulating the thermal transfer at graphene/silicon by adjusting nitrogen doping modes. The results show that nitrogen doping can reduce the in-plane thermal conductivity of graphene/silicon heterostructure, but when doping is regular and distributed throughout graphene, the thermal conductivity will increase abruptly. This phenomenon can be attributed to the coupling between nitrogen phonons, which provides a new heat transfer channel for in-plane heat transfer. We also detected that the in-plane thermal conductivity of regular doping is higher than that of random doping in all concentration ranges. In the other, we found that nitrogen doping can significantly reduce the interfacial thermal resistance of graphene/silicon interface. The above-mentioned findings provide new ideas and theoretical support for controlling the heat transfer between graphene based heterogeneous interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The source-load uncertainties within the multi-energy microgrid are comprehensively considered, and a data-driven box-based uncertainty set is formulated. In the uncertainty analysis of EVs, an unsupervised clustering method is introduced in the construction of the data-driven uncertainty set containing EVs. • A three-stage min–max robust optimization model for MEM is developed to handle multiple uncertainties. Meanwhile, this paper adopts Stackelberg game theory to portray the interaction between multi-energy microgrid system operators and EV users. • Finally, this paper employs the column and constraint generation (C&CG) algorithm in solving the robust optimization model and constructs a numerical simulation experiment based on a real integrated energy park model. To improve the flexibility and robustness of energy systems, we propose a three-stage robust optimization (RO) model for a multi-energy microgrid (MEM). First, the source-load uncertainties within the multi-energy microgrid are comprehensively considered, and a data-driven box-based uncertainty set is formulated. In the uncertainty analysis of electric vehicles, an unsupervised clustering method is introduced in the construction of the data-driven uncertainty set containing EVs. Secondly, a three-stage min–max robust optimization model for MEM is developed to handle multiple uncertainties. Meanwhile, this paper adopts Stackelberg game theory to portray the interaction between multi-energy microgrid system operators and EV users. Finally, this paper employs the column and constraint generation (C&CG) algorithm in solving the robust optimization model and constructs a numerical simulation experiment based on a real integrated energy park model. The simulation results show that the uncertainty set constructed based on historical data can eliminate some low probability cases in describing EV uncertainty. Compared with deterministic optimization, the robust optimization approach can effectively resist multiple uncertainties without significantly increasing the operating cost of the MEM. Meanwhile, the C&CG algorithm can ensure fast convergence of the process when the model solves complex multilevel models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repeated non-destructive impacts may cause accumulated damages which would consequently lead to the total failure of structures. In this case, the deformation performance of structures, especially pseudo-shakedown phenomenon deserves attention. Nine square concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) specimens were tested under repeated lateral impacts by considering the influences of impact height and tube wall thickness. The dynamic response of the specimen in terms of damage mode, impact force, and mid-span deflection was analyzed. The test results indicated that the specimens mainly showed the whole flexural damage under repeated impacts. With the increase in the impact number, the local buckling on both sides of the impact position became more obvious, and the increment of plastic deformation of the specimen decreased, in which the deformation of the specimen without fracture gradually tended to a steady value, namely the pseudo-shakedown phenomenon. The impact force reduced greatly from the first impact to the last. The stabilized displacement under pseudo shakedown increased with the increase in the tube wall thickness. In addition, a finite element model is developed and validated to analyze the impact performance of square CFST under repeated lateral impacts. In this study, all the parameters show a significant effect on the deformation of the CFST specimens except for the concrete strength, since the plastic deformation of outer steel tube is the main energy dissipation mechanism. The pseudo-shakedown phenomenon not only depends on the local stiffness, but also the overall flexural stiffness of the member. Finally, the simplified calculation formulas for the pseudo-shakedown impact numbers and the corresponding mid-span displacements of square CFST columns under repeated lateral impacts are proposed, of which results are in good agreement with the experimental and numerical results. • Nine square concrete-filled steel tubes (SCFST) were tested under repeated lateral impacts. • The pseudo-shakedown phenomenon was observed in the specimens under specific condition. • All the parameters except for concrete strength show a significant effect on the deformation of the SCFSTs. • The simplified calculation formulas for the pseudo-shakedown impact numbers and the corresponding mid-span displacements of SCFSTs under repeated lateral impacts are proposed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A distance-based paper sensor for the detection of DNase I is developed. • The quantitative detection of DNase I is achieved by measuring the watermark on the indicator paper. • This method exhibits the advantages of the aptamer-mediated enzyme cascade reaction, low-cost, and label-free detection. DNase I is proven to be an early predictive molecule for a variety of diseases, which is important for early diagnosis and clinical detection of diseases. Herein, we demonstrate a distance-based paper sensor to detect DNase I via an enzymatic cascade reaction mediated by the thrombin aptamer. In the presence of DNase I, the thrombin is able to clot the plasma normally because the aptamer chain is hydrolyzed by DNase I and cannot bind thrombin properly to inhibit thrombin activity. The concentration of DNase I is negatively correlated with the volume of mobile phase in sample solution, and it can be quantified by measuring the flow distance of water on the pH indicator strip. The distance-based paper sensor has good specificity, and the detection limit is 2 × 10−2 U/mL. In addition, it can be used for DNase I analysis in human serum samples to show its efficacy in the early diagnosis of diseases associated with DNase I activity. Overall, we developed a simple, fast and low-cost DNase I detection method, which has great commercial potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, starch/PBAT antimicrobial film, based on the synergistic effects of two commercial antimicrobial peptides, was fabricated by blown extrusion. The blends with nisin exhibited higher storage modulus and complex viscosity than those with ε-polylysine hydrochloride (ε-PL) alone. ATR-FTIR spectra revealed that new intermolecular hydrogen bonds were formed among starch, nisin, and ε-PL. XRD results indicated that antimicrobial peptides facilitated the destruction of the original crystalline structure of starch. Combination of ε-PL and nisin enhanced tensile strength, flexibility, moisture permeability, and oxygen barrier property of the films with more homogeneous morphology. SP-PN1/2 film (1% ε-PL + 2% nisin) exhibited over 90% inhibition rates against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli , and prolonged the shelf life of fresh peaches. The antimicrobial film with nisin and ε-PL showed high safety, cost-effectiveness, consumer acceptability, and thus it had a good application prospect in the food packaging field. [Display omitted] • Starch/PBAT films with antimicrobial peptides were fabricated by blown extrusion. • Combination of ε-PL and nisin led to more homogeneous morphology. • High proportion of ε-PL in ε-PL-nisin mixtures improved film performance. • ε-PL and nisin effectively inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli. • The films with antimicrobial peptides extended the shelf life of fresh peaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative rancidity of food products and massive consumption of plastic packaging have put the necessity in manufacturing novel antioxidant biodegradable packaging films. A comprehensive investigation was conducted on starch/poly(butylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (PBAT) antioxidant blown films, in which starch acted as a gatekeeper for the controlled release of propyl gallate (PG). PG was well integrated into the matrices and bound to starch molecules by hydrogen bonding. All films showed strong anti-ultraviolet performance, and higher oxygen barrier than the traditional polyethylene film. Increasing starch proportions promoted the swelling of films and the release of PG, thereby causing higher antioxidant activity at the same contact time to free radical solutions. Similar polarity made PG prone to partition and rapid migration into the food simulants with higher ethanol concentration and the high-fat-content peanut butter. The film with 20:80 w/w starch/PBAT proportion and 3% w/w PG content effectively suppressed the oxidation of peanut butter within 300-day storage. Findings demonstrated this strategy for manufacturing starch/PBAT antioxidant films as a long-term active packaging in food industry. [Display omitted] • A novel strategy was developed for the antioxidant films via blown extrusion. • Starch acted as a smart gatekeeper for the sustained release of propyl gallate (PG). • Both in vivo and in vitro release behaviors of PG were revealed. • The antioxidant capacity of the films showed dose dependence of PG. • The film inhibited the oxidative rancidity of peanut butter within 300 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposed a novel strategy for manufacturing biodegradable pH-response packaging. Briefly, to minimize the amount and thermal processing times of blueberry extract (BE), ethanol-dissolved BE (≤ 3‰ w/w) was sprayed onto the starch/poly(butylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (PBAT) pellets before extrusion blowing. BE was well-integrated into the matrix, forming uniformly colored films. The films with BE exhibited superior mechanical (7.85 MPa of strength, 606.53% of elongation) and enhanced barrier capabilities against ultraviolet light, moisture, and gas. Additionally, they exhibited good antioxidant capacity (68.69%), antibacterial activity (72.40%), and maintained color stability. The film with 3‰ w/w BE presented excellent color responsiveness (ΔE ⁎ ≥ 15) in the alkaline range, and successfully monitored the spoilage of shrimp. The pigments in the film had the maximum migration degree (≥ 70%) and rate in 50% ethanol simulation, following a first-order kinetic behavior dominated by Fickian diffusion. Findings supported the application of this strategy in the fabrication of starch/PBAT/BE films for pH-response intelligent packaging. [Display omitted] • A novel strategy was developed for biodegradable smart films via blown extrusion. • Color response was achieved by adding a tiny amount of blueberry extract (≤ 3‰). • Films showed good mechanical and barrier properties with multifunctional activity. • The freshness of shrimp was successfully monitored by the films. • Pigment release was a first-order kinetic behavior dominated by Fickian diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For improving the adsorption behaviors of the adsorbent, including large adsorption capacity, high selectivity for Pb2+ and Cd2+, as well as good separability from wastewater, bioresource chitosan (CS) was introduced to modify SUZ-4 zeolite to form SUZ-4@CS beads for the first time. The adsorption ability of SUZ-4@CS beads was optimized when the mass ratio (SUZ-4:CS) was 1:1, and the aging time in NaOH solution was 24 h, and the conventional drying method was adopted rather than the vacuum one. The optimal adsorption ability of beads was 499.5 and 234.6 mg/g for Pb2+ and Cd2+, respectively. The parameters in the adsorption were adopted as 0.0075 g adsorbent for 50 mL, 250 mg/L Pb2+ solution, and 0.015 g adsorbent for 50 mL, 100 mg/L Cd2+ solution, pH = 6, t = 120 min. The connection between SUZ-4 and CS in the composite was verified to be through H-bonds rather than mechanical mixing by the characterizations. Ion exchange, precipitation, and surface complexation were involved in the ion uptake. Moreover, the prepared SUZ-4@CS(1:1) beads displayed good recyclability for both Pb2+ and Cd2+ during six recycles. Notably, SUZ-4@CS(1:1) beads could effectively remove Pb2+ and Cd2+ from the actual industrial wastewater to meet regulatory requirements. These findings demonstrate that SUZ-4@chitosan beads can be a promising adsorbent for water purification. [Display omitted] • SUZ-4@CS beads show excellent capacity and selectivity for Pb2+ and Cd2+ adsorption. • Effect of synthesis conditions of beads on adsorption is studied for the first time. • The interaction force of CS and SUZ-4 in the beads is verified to be hydrogen bonds. • The adsorption mechanism of SUZ-4@CS beads for Pb2+ and Cd2+ in water is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We proposed a conceptual design for optical control solar battery. • We constructed the different Cu/ZnO composite film structures by using doping Cu in ZnO. • We detected the optical nonlinearity between the optical constants and doping quantity of Cu. • We find a strong absorption peak of Cu/ZnO composite film. • It implies a potential method for design new type of optical device, especially in the solar battery. To investigate the optical properties of Cu/ZnO composite thin films within the visible spectrum, a conceptual design for photo-controlled solar cells is built in this paper. By employing Cu-doped nanoparticles in ZnO, we fabricated a series of Cu/ZnO composite films. The optical modulation characteristics of these films were analyzed through numerical simulations. Our findings reveal a nonlinear correlation between the optical constants of Cu and the doping concentration. Notably, we observed a pronounced absorption peak at a 430 nm wavelength, underscoring its potential significance in the development of innovative optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Starch/PBAT blown antimicrobial films were prepared with quaternary ammonium salts. • Dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (D1821) caused homogeneous film morphology. • Moisture/gas barrier and surface hydrophobicity of the film were enhanced by D1821. • Over 3% w/w didodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (D1221) inhibited S. aureus and E. coli. • The film with 5 % w/w D1221 delayed the microbial growth in beef within 21 days. Antimicrobial biodegradable packaging is in high demand as a one-two punch against microbiological and plastic hazards. Two quaternary ammonium salts (QAS) with different N -alkyl chain lengths were used for starch/poly (butylene adipate- co -terephthalate) (PBAT) blown antimicrobial films. Dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (D1821) contributed to a homogeneous film morphology at 5% w/w level, while micro-pores occurred with didodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (D1221). Increasing QAS content weakened hydrogen bonding interactions. D1821 promoted the formation of intercalated structure of nano-clays, and improved the strength, thermal stability, barrier, and surface hydrophobicity of the films. Conversely, adding D1221 decreased the mechanical properties, and significantly enhanced the surface hydrophilicity. The films with 3% and 5% w/w D1221 obviously inhibited the growth of both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli , while those with D1821 cannot show clear zone against the Gram-negative. 5% w/w D1221-loaded film delayed the growth of microorganisms in beef, of which the total viable count was 5.75 lg CFU/g after 21-day chilling storage. Findings supported that QAS had the potential for manufacturing starch/PBAT antimicrobial packaging, but the release kinetics and cytotoxicity still need to be systematically explored before application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• T-shaped CFST column to U-shaped steel composite beam joints were tested under cyclic loads. • The joints with side plate connection showed plastic hinge damage at the beam ends. • The setting of truss reinforcement within the U-shaped steel beam could effectively improve the ductility of the member. • The design methods for the bending capacity of the joints have been proposed. U-shaped steel-concrete composite beams have the advantages of high bearing capacity, excellent fire resistance and quick construction, when it is used with special-shaped concrete-filled steel tube columns could achieve the architectural effect of no exposed beams and columns in the interior, showing great application potential in residential buildings. In this study, three full-scale T-shaped CFST column to U-shaped steel composite beam joints with different configurations were tested under cyclic loads. The damage modes, and hysteresis performance of the joint were discussed in detail. The test results indicated that the three joints with side plate connection all showed plastic hinge damage at the beam ends of which hysteresis curves show bowed shape, with excellent energy dissipation. The setting of truss reinforcement within the U-shaped steel beam could effectively improve the ductility of the member. Based on the validated finite element model, the effects of side plate configuration, the side plate position, and tube wall thickness on the seismic performance of the joints are investigated. The design methods for the bending capacity of the joints have also been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We investigated the degeneration and failure at photoelectric properties of ZnO/Ag/ZnO. • We find a decrease in transparency and an increase in sheet resistance after thermal shock. • We detect that the diffusion of O into Ag at the ZnO/Ag interface by using simulations and test. • It implies how to get high-reliability design of TCO/metal/TCO in optoelectronic devices. We investigated the degeneration at photoelectric properties of typical multilayer transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) of ZnO/Ag/ZnO under thermal shock by experiments and simulation. The experimental data indicated a reduction in the visible region transparency and an increase in sheet resistance for ZnO/Ag/ZnO after undergoing thermal cyclic shock. This resulted in a significant decrease in the Haacke figure of merit (FOM) from 30.7 × 10-3 Ω−1 to 7.8 × 10-3 Ω−1. We identified oxygen diffusion into Ag at the ZnO/Ag interface using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Concurrently, density functional theory (DFT) simulations showed that interstitial oxygen creates impurity charge centers within Ag, indirectly causing the deterioration of the photoelectric properties of ZnO/Ag/ZnO. This finding highlights the challenge of maintaining optoelectronic stability in TCO/metal/TCO (OMO) thin films for practical applications and provides both experimental and theoretical support for designing highly reliable optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The edge structures of two-dimensional materials are important for the property control of corresponding nanoribbons, but possible edge reconstructions are difficult to resolve. Taking phosphorene nanoribbons as an example, we have employed the structure-searching program IM2ODE to discover new structures for both zigzag and armchair edges of bare phosphorene nanoribbons. The edge atoms of these low-energy nanoribbons are generally 3-fold coordinated, and the edge energies are significantly lower than those directly cut from the monolayer. Moreover, we can build low-energy sinuous edges along the diagonal direction based on the bonding features of phosphorus atoms. Further electronic structure studies also reveal that zigzag phosphorene nanoribbons undergo cell doubling and metal-insulator transition similar to Peierls distortion, indicating that the edges experience self-passivation and become stabilized. As similar edge reconstructions can exist in many other two-dimensional materials and it may be difficult to construct the edges by hand, our structure-searching approach provides reliable insights and certain rules can be discovered to elucidate various structure reconstructions. • Edge-structure Searching: This work employs the IM2ODE program to uncover new edge structures for phosphorene nanoribbons. • Novel Edge Reconstructions: Structural modifications with sinuous edges beyond simple cuts from monolayers are revealed. • Electronic Structure Insights: The metal-insulator transition showcases self-passivation and stabilization of the edges. • Construction Rules: Common features of low-energy edges can be used to construct reliable edge structures manually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crack propagation mechanism of glass-ceramics is the theoretical basis for the improvement of surface quality after grinding. The unclear mechanism of the multi-scratch interference effect on the crack propagation of glass-ceramics makes it difficult to propose methods to suppress crack propagation and control strategies to improve the surface quality. This research is aimed at understanding the influence of interference between scratches on lateral crack propagation, material removal mode, and surface quality during the grinding of glass-ceramics. In this study, the stress field model of the interference effect is established to reveal the influence mechanism of the interference effect on crack propagation in glass-ceramics. The amplitude and orientation distribution of the characteristic stress for the lateral crack are analysed. The results show that an increase in amplitude and the influence range of tensile stress and expansion merging under interference promote the further propagation of lateral cracks and brittle removal of glass-ceramics. Multiple scratches experiments produced by single grit were conducted, emulating the interference caused by multiple grits, and they were analysed by an interference stress field prediction model. For glass-ceramics, lateral crack/brittle fracture phenomena are predominant in the case of multi-scratch/double-scratch, whereas major plastic deformations are dominated in the case of a single scratch. A significant reduction in the critical cut depth is noted with an increase in the interference intensity which corresponds to the number of scratches. This preliminary work enables the understanding of the implications of the interference effect on lateral crack propagation in grinding glass-ceramics and provides a scientific basis for the establishment of a control method to suppress crack propagation and improve grinding quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the main components of infiltrating leukocytes in tumors, often play a key role in promoting cancer development and progression. The tumor-specific microenvironment forces the phenotype of tumor-infiltrating to evolve in a direction favorable to tumor development, that is, the generation of M2-like TAMs. Consequently, the dual intervention of cancer cells and tumor microenvironment has become a research hotspot in the field of tumor immunotherapy. In this contribution, we developed pH-sensitive mesoporous calcium silicate nanocomposites (MCNs) encapsulated with indocyanine green (ICG) to enable the effective combination of photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) triggered by the 808 nm near-infrared (NIR) light. The mannose and hyaluronic acid-grafted MCNs specifically targeted TAMs and tumor cells and promoted cell apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo. This paper revealed that irradiation of ICG loaded MCNs with NIR can produce a potent hyperthermia and induce abundant intracellular singlet oxygen generation in the target cells. These results suggest that the novel nanoplatform is believed to facilitate the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents to the tumor microenvironment (TME) to enhance the effects of tumor treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel strategy for modifying nanocellulose (NC) by borax cross-linking was developed, and the obtained borax modified nanocellulose (BNC) was incorporated into cationized high amylose maize starch (CS) films to evaluate the applicability. Cellulose molecules were successfully cross-linked by boron ester bonds, and the original crystal type and basic chemical structure were not changed. Compared with NC, the relative crystallinity of BNC was slightly increased, and the thermal stability was obviously enhanced. Addition of NC and BNC to CS films significantly improved their tensile strength and water resistance. The dispersion of nanocellulose in CS films was effectively improved by borax cross-linking modification. CS/BNC films showed higher mechanical and water resistance properties compared with CS/NC films. Compared with pure CS film, tensile strength of the composite film with 6 wt% BNC increased about 4.0 times, and its water-vapor permeability decreased about 37%. The novel strategy for preparing BNC by using boron ester bonds will provide a potential approach for the development of starch films with desirable properties. • Cellulose molecules were successfully cross-linked by boron ester bonds. • BNC exhibited higher relative crystallinity and thermal stability than NC. • Borax modification induced favorable dispersibility of BNC in starch film matrix. • BNC significantly enhanced the tensile strength and water resistance of CS films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six geosynthetic-reinforced soil (GRS) retaining walls supporting bridge approach roads of an overpass bridge in China exhibited a series of structural problems after 18 years of service. Field investigations demonstrated that the major structural problems consist of excessive lateral facing displacement, settlement and damage of facing panels, and pavement cracks above the GRS retaining walls. The structural problems were mainly caused by inadequate backfill compaction behind the facing, rain water infiltration, the settlement of foundation soil, and reinforcement ageing. Among the six GRS walls, a 22-m-long section collapsed after mild rain in July 2016, and the failure surface in the collapsed zone was mainly located 0.5–0.9 m away from the back of facing panels along the wall height. The field investigation found that external water filtration into the backfill behind the facing panels, and the breakage of connection between reinforcement and facing panels were the main causes of the failure. The connection breakage resulted from the ageing of PP reinforcement strips, and the critical issue of PP reinforcement ageing in complex backfill environment was pinpointed. Remedial measures of the failed section and reinforcing techniques of the remaining GRS walls were briefly presented in the end. • Field observations were carried out to investigate the main structural problems for 6 bridge approach GRS retaining walls. • Ageing of PP reinforcement strips was the main cause of the failure of a 22 m-long partial collaspe GRS wall. • The as-built design of the GRS walls was evaluated and the remedial measure for the failed section was presented. • Case History on Failure of Geosynthetic-Reinforced Soil Walls Supporting Bridge Approach Roads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study assessed the value of Xpert-Ultra in detecting pleural tissue. • Xpert-Ultra with pleural biopsy via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was valuable for unexplained pleural effusions. • Xpert-Ultra with a "Trace" positive outcome was highly supportive of tuberculosis pleurisy. To evaluate the performance of Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Xpert-Ultra) in testing pleural tissue and fluid collected by medical thoracoscopy among patients with unexplained exudative pleural effusion. Patients with an undiagnosed exudative pleural effusion were prospectively and consecutively recruited. Pleural tissue and fluid were collected by medical thoracoscopy and subjected to culture, Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) and Xpert-Ultra assays. Histopathological examination was also performed with the tissue and used as the major reference. Sixty-one patients were enrolled, including: 27 tuberculosis (TB) pleurisy, 15 malignancy and 19 other chronic infection cases. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of Xpert-Ultra for TB diagnosis were 85.19% (23/27), 97.06% (33/34), 95.83% (23/24), and 89.19% (33/37), respectively. Xpert-Ultra testing with the biopsy tissue alone had an equivalent diagnostic capacity to that of pathological examination for the diagnosis of confirmed TB cases. By combining the pathological examination with Xpert-Ultra for biopsy, the percentage of confirmed TB cases greatly increased (i.e. 92.59% (25/27)). The "trace" positive outcome of Xpert-Ultra was highly supportive of TB diagnosis for both biopsy tissue and pleural fluid examinations. With the specimens collected by medical thoracoscopy, the Xpert-Ultra assay presented high value in identifying TB among pleurisy patients who had difficulties in etiological diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is shown that the collapse dynamics in the CSL model will entangle two independent systems under certain conditions, and their state after collapse may be an entangled superposition of spatially separated states. However, since the conditions can hardly be satisfied in reality, the occurrence of such superpositions is very improbable, and thus collapse theories still provide a promising solution to the measurement problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In insects, the cytochrome P450 CYP6B family plays key roles in the detoxification of toxic plant substances. However, the function of CYP6 family genes in degrading plant toxicants in Tribolium castaneum , an extremely destructive global storage pest, have yet to be elucidated. In this study, a T. castaneum CYP gene, TcCYP6BQ7 , was characterized. TcCYP6BQ7 expression was significantly induced after exposure to essential oil of the plant Artemisia vulgaris (EOAV). Spatiotemporal expression profiling revealed that TcCYP6BQ7 expression was higher in larval and adult stages of T. castaneum than in other developmental stages, and that TcCYP6BQ7 was predominantly expressed in the brain and hemolymph from the late larval stage. TcCYP6BQ7 silencing by RNA interference increased larvae mortality in response to EOAV from 49.67% to 71.67%, suggesting that this gene is associated with plant toxicant detoxification. Combined results from this study indicate that the CYP6 family gene TcCYP6BQ7 likely plays a pivotal role in influencing the susceptibility of T. castaneum to plant toxicants. These findings may have implications for the development of novel therapeutics to control this agriculturally important pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an oxide thermoelectric material, the adjustment of oxygen vacancy plays an important role in strontium titanate (SrTiO 3). Traditional synthesis methods typically necessitate post-synthesis reduction annealing to optimize its electrical properties. However, the oxygen vacancy concentration of samples synthesized by this approach may be distributed in a gradient manner. In this study, a high-temperature and high-pressure (HPHT) synthesis treatment was adopted, incorporating titanium powder into the raw material. This novel approach leverages the closed environment created by high pressure and the robust oxygen-trapping capabilities of titanium powder at elevated temperatures. It resulted in enhanced electrical properties in synthesized samples without the need for reduction annealing. Building upon this achievement, we successfully synthesized SrTiO 3 samples doped with lanthanum (La) at different pressures. The sample synthesized at 5GPa demonstrated an optimal zT value of 0.22 at 973 K. This work provides a novel approach to the effective synthesis and improved electrical properties of strontium-based thermoelectric materials. • The grain size and band gaps of SrTiO 3 were effective optimized. • Partial high pressure features of SrTiO 3 have been captured to the ordinary pressure. • The whole synthesis procedure last only for 40 min • Ubiquitous lattice defect engineering was realized in our samples by HPHT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study a redundant series system with a single repairman in which each primary unit has a standby one. The system is subject to common cause failure (CCF), and it may also break down either when a failed primary unit is unsuccessfully switched to the standby, or when all units are down in a subsystem. If no failed units exist in the system, the repairman takes a delayed vacation. For such a system, by establishing the system's balance equations and solving a second-order linear nonhomogeneous difference equation with variable coefficients, we first obtain the steady-state distribution of the system and derive some reliability and queueing measures. Moreover, by adopting Markov renewal technique, we carry out an extensive reliability analysis and obtain the Laplace-transform of the time to first failure starting from an arbitrary working state. Some numerical examples arising from a solar energy generating system are presented to illustrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed model and results. Finally, a cost-benefit discussion is presented from the perspective of economic profit analysis and some managerial insight. • Investigate a redundant series system subject to three types of failures with delayed server vacation. • Obtain the analytic expressions of various performance measures of the system. • Provide the cost benefit analysis (CBA) to get the maximum benefit with the minimum cost in decision-making. • Develop an SLSQP method for determining the optimal repair rate to minimize the expected cost function per unit time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing uncertainty is key to enhancing robustness in microgrids. This study focuses on the uncertainties in aggregated electric vehicles (EVs) and establishes a two-layer model predictive control (MPC) strategy for charging EVs with a microgrid. The uncertainty in sampling results of EV connection times to the microgrid and the uncertainty in sampling results of state of charge (SOC) of each EV at the time of the initial connection are both taken into account through multi-uncertainty sampling. In order of consider the impact of extreme scenarios, as feedback from arriving EVs are combined with multi-uncertainty sampling for higher accuracy of sampling results during rolling optimization. Simulation results show that, compared to conventional strategies, the proposed strategy has better performance in reducing forecasting error and regulating the charging and discharging of aggregated EVs with uncertainties. • A model predictive control approach is proposed for coordination with wind energy. • The uncertainty of sampling results of aggregated electric vehicles is handled. • The impact of extreme scenarios of aggregated electric vehicles is considered. • Feedback from aggregated electric vehicles is used for higher forecasting accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increasing ratio of VEGF/VEGI plays an important role in the leakage of BBB after TBI. • VEGI treatment improved neurological outcome and decreased BBB leakage after TBI. • VEGI treatment suppressed VEGF expression and inhibited VEGFR2 phosphorylation. • VEGI treatment altered Angpt2/Angpt1 ratio. • Administration of VEGI recombinant protein at early phases of TBI is beneficial. Excessive expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a common cause of blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown that triggers severe complications following traumatic brain injury (TBI). It has been shown that inhibition of VEGF activities may attenuate cerebral edema in pathological conditions. Vascular endothelial growth inhibitor (VEGI; also known as TNFSF15), a cytokine produced largely by vascular endothelial cells, is capable of downregulating VEGF expression and inhibiting VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR2) activation. In this study we found that TBI can cause breakdown of BBB and sharp increases of VEGF/VEGI and Angpt2/Angpt1 ratios in the injured tissues. VEGI treatment resulted in a marked decrease of BBB permeability and concomitant restoration of normal ratios of VEGF/VEGI and Angpt2/Angpt1. Consistently, alleviated edema, decreased neuron cell death, and improved neurological functions were observed when the experimental animals were treated with VEGI in the early phase of TBI. Our findings suggest that administration of VEGI recombinant protein at early phases of TBI is beneficial to stabilization of the disease conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-dimensional carbon-based composite material loaded with magnetic nanoparticles Fe 3 C (CN–Fe 3 C) was successfully designed and prepared to ensure the dielectric loss and magnetic loss effect occur simultaneously. The impedance matching of the material is better realized, and the absorbing performance is improved. The loading of ferromagnetic Fe 3 C effectively improves the magnetic properties of the composites. When the filling amount is only 10 wt%, the composite can achieve a reflection loss value of −46.78 dB at 13.53 GHz, and the effective absorption bandwidth is as high as 5.01 GHz. The excellent absorbing performance is mainly due to the enhancement of interfacial polarization and the synergistic effect between the dielectric properties of carbon materials and the magnetic properties of Fe 3 C. CN–Fe3C/PVDF also shows good electromagnetic shielding effectiveness. This work has developed new ideas for designing and preparing "thin", "light", "wide", and "strong" two-dimensional carbon-based composite absorbing materials. Image 1 • Two-dimensional carbon-based nanocomposite (CN-Fe 3 C) with excellent electromagnetic wave absorption properties was successfully synthesized. • An excellent reflection loss (RL) of -46.78 dB at 13.53 GHz with a low filler loading (10 wt%) and ultra-thin thickness (2.00 mm). • Effective absorption bandwidth (< -10 dB) up to 5.01 GHz under a single thickness (2.00 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents three experimental investigations on the performance of steel-beam to CFST-column joints using stiffened angle, long bolts and fin plate under a middle column removal scenario. Three specimens were designed and tested. The failure modes and catenary action are investigated in detail. The test results show that increasing the angle plate thickness at the joint could not only improve its performance significantly, but also trigger an early formation of catenary action. Increasing the length of short-limb had influence on the deformation ability of the proposed joint, rather than the load capacity. The buckling of stiffeners could prevent the brittle failure of the joints. With the contribution of catenary action, the joint shows much higher rotation capacities than that required in DoD design guidance. The initial stiffness of the joint was calculated using an analytical model with consideration of bolt pretension. Good agreement to the test results is achieved. A numerical analysis is also carried out, whose results show that adding additional row of bolts would improve the redundancy of the joint under column loss. An equivalent dynamic response evaluation of the joints was also performed. The results show that dynamic amplification coefficient should be worked out considering catenary action under large deformation. • A CFST-column joint with stiffened angle and long bolts was developed and tested under column removal. • Increasing angle thickness and installation of extra row of bolts are the effective ways to trigger catenary action earlier. • With pretension effect in bolts, the initial stiffness of joint derived from component method provides accurate prediction. • Due to the contribution of catenary action, the joints exhibit much higher rotation capacities than the requirement in DoD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of new direct methanol fuel cell catalyst is a hot topic of current research. In this article, we adopted a simple method of synthesizing a PtNi alloy catalyst in one step at room temperature. In order to study the optimum proportion of platinum salt and nickel salt in the experiment by changing the molar ratio of platinum and nickel in the solution, five different proportions of PtNi alloy catalysts were obtained. The successful synthesis of PtNi alloy catalyst was proved by XRD and other characterization methods. The electrochemical properties of the above electrocatalysts were investigated using CV, LSV and other testing methods. The results show that PtNi-4 alloy catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic activity in both methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) tests, and their initial potential and current density are similar to commercial Pt/C catalysts in ORR. In summary, the prepared PtNi-4 alloy catalyst can be used as an anode or cathode catalyst in direct methanol fuel cells. A PtNi alloy catalyst prepared in one step exhibits excellent catalytic activity in both methanol oxidation and oxygen reduction reaction. Unlabelled Image • In this work, PtNi alloy catalysts were prepared via a simple method, by employing hydrated hydrazine as a reducing agent in one step. • The results show that PtNi-4 alloy catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic activity in both methanol oxidation (MOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) tests. • The time required to prepare the PtNi-n catalyst is short, and the experimental instrument used is simple and easy to obtain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HSCs (hepatic stellate cells) contribute to the excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition plays a key role in the progression of hepatic fibrosis. The present study focused on the hepatoprotective effect of Ginsenoside Rc (Rc), one of the protopanaxadiol type ginsenoside, which has contributed to reverse activated HSCs to improve hepatic fibrosis via regulating Nur77-TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway. We established the hepatic fibrosis model by intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4). And HSCs were stimulated with TGF-β, followed by silencing of Nur77, and then incubated in Rc. Rc significantly alleviated histopathological changes, reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels. Rc could upregulate the Nur77 and downregulate fibrosis markers in the liver of mice, including decreasing the expressions of α-SMA, Collagen-I, the ratio of TIMP-1/MMP-13. Rc significantly increased the expression of Nur77 and suppressed the production of ECM in HSCs. Rc inhibited TLR4 signaling pathway, consequently reversing the inflammatory response, including the production of MyD88, IRAK1, IRAK4 and IL-23. When Nur77 was knocked in TGF-β-stimulated HSCs, TLR4 and α-SMA production were increased. Rc suppressed these activatory effects in Nur77 knockdown HSCs. Rc reduced inflammatory reaction by regulating the Nur77-TLR4 signaling pathway while suppressing the fibrogenesis suggesting, underscoring a promising approach of Rc for the treatment in hepatic fibrosis. Targeting Nur77-TLR4 signaling in HSCs would be the potential strategy for Rc against hepatic fibrosis. [Display omitted] • Nur77 participate in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. • Ginsenoside Rc plays a hepatic fibirosis suppressor role. • Ginsenoside Rc modulates Nur77-TLR4/MyD88 signaling in HSCs. • Amelioration to hepatic fibrosis by Ginsenoside Rc benefits from controlling Nur77-TLR4/MyD88 pathway in hepatic stellate cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The relationships between age, flight exposure, and real flight safety performance of 1291 pilots were investigated. • Pilots aged 21–40 showed a rapid increase in exceedance rates, regardless of their flight exposure levels. • Among pilots aged 21–35, flight experience mediated the age-performance association. • Among pilots aged 26–35, age moderated the experience-performance association. • Pilots appeared to be at higher risk for inhibition deficits after the age of 40. Generally, flight experience protects against the effect of the normal aging process on pilots' incident involvement, but some studies have shown a negative effect of flight hours on flight safety performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, flight exposure, and flight safety performance in a large cross-sectional sample of commercial airline pilots (N = 1291). We examined the role that flight exposure plays in mediating age and flight safety performance, as well as the role that age plays in moderating flight exposure and flight safety performance in different age groups. Pilots' age, total flight hours of B737-800, and exceedance data from 2016 to 2018 were collected. The results showed that exceedance rates increased rapidly among pilots aged 21–40, regardless of their flight exposure levels. In addition, flight exposure mediated the association between age and exceedance rates among pilots aged 21–35; age moderated the association between flight exposure and exceedance rates among pilots aged 26–35. Age directly affected exceedance rates among pilots aged 41–45 and 56–60. These findings provide insights into the pilots' psychological and cognitive competencies in the professionalism lifecycle management perspective, which has previously been confused between age and flight exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cement augmentation technique using poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is considered to be the most effective method for fixation of osteoporotic fracture because of its outstanding mechanical properties. However, the low bio-degradation of PMMA, which hinders bone ingrowth, limits it potential for a broad range of applications. Previous studies have shown blending β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) with PMMA was able to improve the osteoconduction while the material still suffered poor mechanical properties due to the poor compatibility between two components. In this study, we explored the use of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as a compatibilizer for improving the affinity of TCP/PMMA blends system. The resultant TCP/HEMA/PMMA(THP) composite cements exhibited similar setting properties to PMMA cement but much better mechanical properties than composite systems without HEMA as a compatibilizer. No cytotoxicity or hemolysis was observed in the THP bone cement system by biochemical assays. Bone ingrowth was significantly improved at 12 weeks. The reinforced pull-out strength of screws was observed at 4, 8, 12 weeks through in vivo studies performed on rabbit femurs. The THP system, as an injectable bone cement material, shows great potential for use in the cement augmentation technique. • Designing a new composite bone cement (THP) consisting of β • The THP cement has great mechanical properties owing to HEMA is able to improve the affinity of TCP and PMMA. • The THP cement owns a great biocompatibility and stimulates the bone ingrowth in vivo. • The THP cement shows a similar performance of reinforcing the screw stability to traditional PMMA cement in a rabbit model at 4,8,12 weeks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An ideal carbon-based supercapacitor electrode requires abundant micropores that are favorable for charge accumulation, and suitable mesopores that are beneficial for fast electrolyte ions transport. Herein, 3D porous carbon microspheres (carbon nanotube-ketjen black/activated carbon, CNT-KB/AC), where the CNT-KB microspheres (CKMS) as the framework providing mesopores and the activated carbon as the core providing micropores, have been constructed by spray drying and KOH activation. The obtained carbon composites exhibit a homogeneous spherical structure and high specific surface area (up to 1751 m2 g−1). The CNT-KB/AC electrode with an areal density of 3 mg cm−2 can achieve a high areal capacitance of 506.9 mF cm−2 at the current density of 0.2 A g−1 in 6 M KOH solution, which is much larger than that of the CNT/AC electrode (232.6 mF cm−2) and CNT-AB/AC electrode (179.5 mF cm−2). Besides, when the areal density is increased up to 9 mg cm−2, the areal capacitance of CNT-KB/AC is increased up to 998.9 mF cm−2 at 0.2 A g−1 and 724.9 mF cm−2 at 20 A g−1. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent long-term cycling stability (achieving capacitance retention of 94% after 10,000 cycles). These results indicate that the CNT-KB/AC composites are promising electrode materials for high-areal-density supercapacitors. Graphical abstract 3D porous carbon microspheres (carbon nanotube-ketjen black/activated carbon, CNT-KB/AC) have been constructed by spray drying and KOH activation. The CNT-KB/AC electrodes show an efficient electric double layer capacitive behavior, good rate capability, excellent long-term cycling stability, and high areal capacitance. Unlabelled Image Highlights • 3D porous carbon microspheres (CNT-KB/AC) were successfully synthetised. • CNT-KB/AC exhibits a homogeneous spherical structure and high specific surface area (up to 1751 m2 g−1). • The areal capacitance of CNT-KB/AC is 998.9 mF cm−2 at 0.2 A g−1 with a 9 mg cm−2 areal density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Numerical models based on ductile metal fracture and CDP model are developed. • A method is proposed to apply the pretension loads on bolt in quasi-static analysis • A variety of parameters including steel fracture and concrete damage are calibrated. • A parametric study is conducted for the anti-collapse performance of composite frame. • A formula is proposed to predict the rotation capacity acceptance of flush endplate joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A high gain antenna with multibeam radiation for terahertz application is proposed based on holographic artificial impedance surface. By modifying the design method of artificial impedance surface, four different parts of artificial impedance surfaces are obtained. Combining the four parts of artificial impedance surfaces together, multibeam radiation can be achieved. The detailed design procedure of the artificial impedance modulation surface and the simulation results are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A novel spectral fatigue method is proposed for Gaussian bimodal processes. • Factor ξ is introduced to reflect coupling between low & high frequency modes. • The method is not only efficient but more accurate than other spectral methods. Abstract Fatigue damage assessment of narrow-banded (NB) Gaussian processes in frequency domain has been a classical problem since the 1960s, in that the frequency-domain approach is more efficient than the time-domain approach such as the Monte-Carlo simulation based rainflow counting. However, when the random process of stress is wide-banded (WB) and particularly contains two or more peaks well apart in the spectrum, it is still difficult to accurately assess the fatigue damage by spectral methods, even if the process is Gaussian. On the basis of the single-moment method and the spectral discretization idea, this paper presents an efficient and accurate method for the bimodal Gaussian fatigue assessment. In this method, the mutual influence between the narrow-banded low-frequency (LF) stress and the high-frequency (HF) stress is reflected by a coefficient ξ dependent on the high-low frequency ratio γ , the energy ratio β and the slope parameter k of material's S-N curve. Time-domain rainflow counting is used as the reference to judge the accuracy of this new method against several popular spectral methods, i.e., Jiao-Moan (JM) method, single moment (SM) method, Low's bimodal method (LOW) and Tovo-Benasciutti (TB) method. For wide ranges of γ , β , k and all bimodal patterns (NB-LF with NB-HF, WB-LF with NB-HF, NB-LF with WB-HF and WB-LF with WB-HF), the proposed method is most accurate among all methods, demonstrating its great potential in engineering practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Three different types of joints with long bolts were designed and tested in the scenario of column loss. The performance of different joints including flush endplate, extended endplate and stiffened angle under column removal was studied in detail. The investigation was focused on failure modes, formation and developing of catenary action and deformation capacity. The equivalent dynamic response of different joints would also be assessed. The results show that the match of plate thickness and bolt diameter plays an important role in the performance of joint. Relatively thinner plate would help the formation of catenary action. The configuration of flush endplate is more beneficial for the formation of catenary action than extended endplate. By using different connection configuration, the performance of flexural action in joint would affect the contribution of catenary action. The acceptance criteria in DoD and GSA are suitable to assess the rotation related to the first load drop of joints whilst those in FEMA350 is suitable for assess the rotation related to maximum load which represents the anti-collapse behavior of joint. The dynamic amplification coefficient (DAC) suggested by DoD is appropriate if the joint carry vertical load mainly by flexural action. With the influence of catenary action, the DAC would be larger than the values suggested by DoD. Highlights • Three different types of joints with long bolts were designed and tested in the scenario of column loss. • The match of plate thickness and bolt diameter plays an important role in the performance of joint. • The performance of flexural action in different connection configuration would affect the contribution of catenary action. • The acceptance criteria in FEMA350 is suitable for assess the rotation related to anti-collapse capacity of joint. • With the influence of catenary action, the DAC would be larger than the values suggested by DoD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Alginate lyase played an important role in brown algae degradation, and its enzymatic degradation products showed various biological activities. Although many alginate lyases have been characterized, the enzymes with special characterizations are still rather rare. In this study, a new alginate lyase gene, tsaly6A , has been cloned from marine bacterium Thalassomonas sp. LD5, and expressed in Escherichia coli. The deduced alginate lyase, TsAly6A, belonged to the polysaccharide lyase (PL) family 6 and showed the highest amino acid identity (63%) with an exo-type oligoalginate lyase AlyGC. However, this study showed that TsAly6A was an endo-type enzyme yielding alginate trisaccharides (64.5%) as the main products. Compared with other alginate lyases, TsAly6A showed high trisaccharide-yielding levels. Meanwhile, TsAly6A showed the specific activity of 15,960 U/μmol at its optimal pH (pH 8.0) and temperature (35 °C). In addition, TsAly6A was a cold-adapted, salt-activated and metal ions-resisted alginate lyase, which will enable it to perform high activity in the solution containing various ions. Its cold-adaptation, metal ions-tolerance and high trisaccharides yields make TsAly6A an excellent candidate for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Detrital zircons from nine river sand samples from the upper, middle and lower streams of the Yangtze River (the world's third largest river) and its two largest tributaries, the Han and Jialing rivers have been analyzed for U–Pb–Lu–Hf–O isotope compositions. Zircons from the upper Yangtze River cluster in age groups at 0–100, 200–300, 400–500, 700–1000, 1800–1900 and 2300–2500 Ma, with a marked peak at 41 Ma diagnostic of magmatism on the Tibetan Plateau. Zircons from the middle and lower Yangtze River and its tributaries exhibit broadly similar age groups at 100–300, 400–500, 700–900, 1800–2000 and 2300–2700 Ma, except for the lack of Cenozoic ages. The Yangtze River catchment is covered by thick Phanerozoic sedimentary rocks and so Archean-aged zircons are likely to be under-represented in modern river sands. We therefore applied the approach of Dhuime et al. (2012) to calculate a crustal growth curve for South China, and the resultant curve has two inflections. The older inflection at ~2.8 Ga is slightly younger than that of Dhuime et al. (2012) , suggesting the onset of plate tectonics in the Yangtze Craton. The younger inflection at ~1.8 Ga appears to mark the onset of another period of relatively high crustal growth rate in South China. This period of increased crustal growth rate in the Mesoproterozoic is coeval with the breakup of the supercontinent Columbia, suggesting that the Mesoproterozoic crustal growth in South China may be related to supercontinent dispersal. Comparison with global crustal growth curves based on detrital zircons highlights the distinct step-like pattern of crustal growth in South China. This emphasizes the potential of comparing regional with global crustal growth curves, and the changes in the rates of crustal growth in South China appear to have been controlled by changes in regional geodynamics. The maximum δ18O values in the zircons analyzed increase markedly at the end of the Archaean, and these increases therefore accompany the estimated increases in atmospheric oxygen at that time. It is therefore suggested the atmospheric O 2 levels were associated with increased crustal weathering, the development of more elevated δ18O sediments and their increasing incorporation in the generation of crustally derived magmas from ca. 2.5 Ga. Highlights • A step-like crustal growth curve for South China • The onset of plate tectonics in the Yangtze Craton may have occurred at ~2.8 Ga. • The higher post-1.8 Ga crustal growth rate may be linked to the breakup of the Columbia. • The step rise in the maximum zircon δ18O may be related to the Great Oxidation Event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct synthesis of higher alcohols by CO hydrogenation is one of the most important processes for the utilization of syngas, but obtaining high selectivity to higher alcohols (C 2+ –OH) remains a challenge. In this work, a series of gallium-doped activated carbon-supported cobalt catalysts (15Co– x Ga/AC, representing 15 wt% Co and x wt% Ga) were developed and they were found to be favorable for enhancing the selectivity to alcohols ( S ROH ). The optimized S ROH value reached 30.3 mol% over the 15Co–2.5Ga/AC catalyst, while that was 17.0 mol% over the Ga-free catalyst. The characterization results indicated that the doping of Ga increased the reduction temperature of Co 3 O 4 and modulated the distribution of the surface Co 2+ and Co 0 species. It was found that the Co 2+ –Co 0 dual active sites were responsible for the formation of alcohols and the enhancement of S ROH arose from moderate ratio of Co 2+ /(Co 2+  + Co 0 ). The results revealed that the addition of Ga could be an effective way to elevate the selectivity of higher alcohols by CO hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes the design of a holographic artificial impedance surface antenna, which is capable of beam forming at a desired direction with improved gain for terahertz communications applications. By modifying the design method of artificial impedance surface, two parts of artificial impedance surface with out of phase impedance modulation function are obtained. Combining the two parts of artificial impedance surface together, the split in the main lobe direction of the radiation pattern can be cancelled. Then, an improved gain at the desired direction can be achieved. The design procedure of the surface, with simulation results, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dandelion-like V 2 O 3 /C composite was synthesized by a simple and facile template-free solvothermal method followed by a suitable thermal treatment. The dandelion-like V 2 O 3 /C composite is constructed by bicontinuous 3D hierarchical structures, which are formed by interconnected nanoparticles and interconnected pores, respectively. Moreover, the surface of interconnected nanoparticles is uniformly coated with an ultrathin carbon layer. Upon evaluation as an anode material for LIBs, the as-synthesized product shows superior electrochemical performance. Under the current density of 0.1 A g −1 , the specific discharge capacity of V 2 O 3 /C composite is 737 mA h g −1 after 100 cycles. Moreover, after 1000 cycles at a high current density of 2 A g −1 , the sample exhibits a discharge capacity of 315 mA h g −1 which is 94% of the first-cycle discharge capacity. This excellent electrochemical performance can be ascribed to its unique hierarchical structure with 3D interconnected nanopores and uniform carbon coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Push-out specimens with assembly straight bolt and U-bolt shear connectors were tested. • Longitudinally arranged U-bolts show the largest bearing capacity and initial stiffness. • The increase in concrete strength and bolt diameter can improve the performance of U-bolts. • The prediction formulas for the performance of U-bolt shear connectors are proposed. • Load-slip model of longitudinally arranged U-bolt shear connectors are proposed. To improve the interface shear resistance of steel-concrete composite beams, a novel U-shaped bolted shear connector was proposed and tested in a push-out test by considering the influence of bolt type, U-bolt arrangement and dimensions. Based on the validated modeling techniques, a parametric analysis is conducted by considering the influence of concrete strength, bolt diameter and bolt strength. The results show that the failure mode of the specimens with U-bolt is bolt fracture and concrete cracking, whilst that with straight bolts is bolt fracture and local concrete crushing. Compared to the straight bolts with the same embedded height, the bearing capacity and initial stiffness of the longitudinally arranged U-bolts are significantly improved by 48.82% and 51.95% respectively, whilst compared to the U-bolts arranged transversely, the increase in the bearing capacity and the initial stiffness is only 5.10% and 29.90% respectively. The area increase in the concrete tenon inside the longitudinally arranged U-bolt would increase its initial stiffness, rather than the bearing capacity. The ductility coefficient of the U-bolts arranged longitudinally is significantly smaller than that of the straight bolts and transversely arranged U- bolts. The simulated results show that the increase in concrete strength and bolt diameter can significantly improve the bearing capacity and initial stiffness of U-bolts arranged longitudinally, but greatly reduce the corresponding maximum displacement and ductility coefficient. The increase in bolt strength would comprehensively improve the shear performance of U-bolts arranged longitudinally. Based on the tested and simulated results, the prediction formulas for the shear bearing capacity, initial shear stiffness, peak slip and the load-slip model of longitudinally arranged U-bolt shear connectors are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An anchor-free infrared pedestrian detection algorithm is proposed. • To address the negative impact of the discrepancy between the classification and regression tasks on the detector performance, a novel dual-branch decoupled detection head is designed. • A cross-scale feature fusion module is developed, which can enhance the pedestrian detection performance in multiscale and partially occluded regions. • A hierarchical attention mapping module is constructed to improve the pedestrian detection performance in complex environments. An anchor-free infrared pedestrian detection algorithm is proposed to address the problems of multiscale, partial occlusion and environmental interference in infrared images, which make it difficult for traditional algorithms to perform accurate detection. First, a cross-scale feature fusion module is devised to improve the detection performance of multiscale and partially occluded objects. This module fuses the global features of different residual layers and multiscale local region features, thereby improving the multiscale feature fusion capability of the model while expanding the feature receptive field of the backbone network. Second, the object texture features of infrared images are weak owing to the imaging mechanism, which affects the accuracy of detection model. Thus, we construct a hierarchical attention mapping module to enhance the significance of pedestrian features in complex environments while suppressing the background information. Moreover, to improve the detection performance further, a novel dual-branch head detector is designed to decouple the input features from the channel dimension, which can be used for classification and location. Finally, by introducing the anchor-free concept into the network prediction mechanism, the prediction box can learn ground truth regression parameters by itself, thereby simplifying the network structure and improving the model generalization ability. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can accurately detect multiscale infrared pedestrian objects in complex environments and exhibits better objective evaluation indices compared to other pedestrian detection algorithms. The average precision and recall reached 98.78% and 98.67%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]