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In deep-sea mining, the accurate and rapid prediction of the pressure drop in a solid–liquid two-phase pipe flow (SLPF) with different parameters including particles, pipes, and flow fields, remains an issue yet to be fully resolved. In this study, an extensive investigation of the pressure drop in a slpf is conducted using machine-learning techniques. By collecting 1290 sets of data from 13 experimental papers and performing analysis and processing, we obtain a machine-learning ensemble algorithm capable of accurately predicting the pipe-pressure drop based on random forest (RF), back propagation (BP), and polynomial regression (PR) algorithms. The performance of the ensemble algorithm surpasses that of the other three algorithms, whether applied to pure substance (PS) particles or mixed particles (MP) containing PS and equivalent particles. For PS particles, the particle concentration and particle diameter-to-pipe diameter (PTP) account for the second and third weights influencing the pressure drop. Using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-discrete element method (DEM), this can be attributed to the significant kinetic energy loss caused by the collisions and friction between the particles and pipe wall and the excessive gravity of the particles, which influences the pressure drop. • An efficient and accurate machine learning algorithm based on an ensemble model is proposed for predicting the pressure drop of solid-liquid two-phase pipe flow. • The predictive accuracy of the ensemble algorithm for the pipe pressure drop, which involves particles of varying sizes, densities, and shapes, is more efficiently and accurately as well. • By altering the particle size and feed concentration, collisions and friction between particles and the pipe wall, and the excessive gravitational force acting on the particles, can all influence the pressure drop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The 2045 W laser is used for laser cladding. • This Gaussian light into a rectangular beam conversion facilitates high speed and efficient cladding. • The ball valve is crack-free and its surface hardness has been increased by 2.7 times. In this paper, the laser cladding of Ni60 + WC powder on the stainless-steel ball valves is investigated to improve the corrosion resistance and the wear resistance of industrial ball valves. A 2-kW high-power diode laser source based on beam multiplexing is used as the processing source to clad the ball valves. To make this diode laser source more reliable for laser cladding, a homogenizing optical system is designed and optimized to transform a circular beam spot output from the optical fiber to a rectangular spot with a flat-top distribution. Employing this diode laser source, the laser cladding of the stainless-steel ball valve is successfully achieved by use of the pre-set powder feeding. The hardness testing experiments are then performed on the ball valves of different diameters, followed by the evaluation of the thickness and hardness of the cladding coating. It is experimentally demonstrated that the microhardness of the ball valves is improved by 2.7 times and the cladding layer has no cracks, which proves the superior performance of the stainless-steel ball valves by use of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of tuneable emission phosphors Ba 2 Ca 1 -x M x (PO 4) 2 :Eu2+ (M = Mg, Sr, Mg–Sr, and Zn) was prepared using multi-cation substitution. A new mechanism of direct/indirect substitution of Eu2+ for a host containing more than one cation and a concept of "selective excitation" for a multiple luminescence centres are proposed that are of great significance for analysing the changes of spectra and for designing colour tuneable phosphors. The emission spectra show a red shift (479 → 602 nm) with colour tuning from blue to yellow in Ba 2 Ca 1- x Mg x (PO 4) 2 :Eu2+ and a blue shift (485 → 441 nm) in Ba 2 Ca 1- x Sr x (PO 4) 2 :Eu2+. For Ba 2 Ca 1- x Zn x (PO 4) 2 :Eu2+, the emission peak first turns from 494 to 442 nm and then a red shift occurs from 442 to 585 nm when excited at 355 nm, while a continuous red shift was observed under excitation of 400 nm. Three different patterns (solid solution material, mixture transition state, and new host component) of phosphors were presented when many foreign cations were introduced into the original host. The energy transfer and thermal back-transfer over the barrier were demonstrated in as-prepared samples. Warm white light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) chromaticity coordinates of (0.3622 and 0.3051), a colour rendering index (Ra) of 88.7, and a correlated colour temperature (CCT) of 3947 were realised using as-prepared phosphors. The as-developed compound series has the potential for further optimisation for commercial applications in daylight LEDs and warm white LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Formulating a maximization model of expected social welfare by given a classification of smart home applications. • Representing operating process of household appliances by Markov decision process. • Dividing the optimization problem into two sub-problems in terms of users and energy supplier. • Solving the maximization model with distributed algorithms. • Simulation studies are given to show performance of the proposed algorithm. Abstract Demand side management (DSM) aims to match power demand to supply through cutting the peak and filling the valley. It is one of the most important factors in smart grid. The real-time pricing (RTP) scheme is an ideal method to adjust power balance between supply and demand. Considering the classification of smart home appliance (SHA) and the correlation of power consumption among users, a social welfare maximization model is proposed based on Markov decision process (MDP) in the research. A probabilistic transfer matrix has been introduced to characterize the elastic appliance in smart home. Several state transfer functions have been utilized to reflect the operating process of the semi-elastic appliance also. In this way, the specific characteristics of SHA can be fully embodied. In order to improve computing efficiency and protect the user's privacy, this project divides the optimization into two subproblems in terms of users and energy supplier (ES). At user side, a modified simulated annealing RTP algorithm is developed to solve the optimization problem. Also, at ES side, the dual sub-gradient method is used to solve the convex optimization problem in the paper. Finally, the simulation results validate the rationality and feasibility of the optimization model by the decentralized RTP algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Fully automated and portable vapor analysis device for formaldehyde detection (first of its kind). • Based on miniaturized heart cutting 2-D gas chromatography technology. • Rapid (∼10 min) and sensitive (∼0.23 ppb) detection of formaldehyde. • Light weight: only 1.3 kg (excluding gas cartridge); Small dimensions: 27 cm x 24 cm x 12 cm. • Versatile – capable to detect other analytes (such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene). • Can be used for on-site continuous environmental monitoring, as well as industries, space exploration, and battlefield. Abstract We developed an automated and highly portable device for rapid and sensitive formaldehyde detection based on heart-cutting 2-dimensional gas chromatography. In this design, the air sample was first absorbed by a preconcentrator before it is injected into the 1st-dimensional column (Rtx®-VMS). The partial elution from the 1st-dimensional column containing formaldehyde was re-injected into the 2nd-dimensional column (Rt® Q-BOND column) for further separation. The detection of formaldehyde was achieved by using a micro-helium dielectric barrier discharge photoionization detector that is able to ionize formaldehyde (ionization potential = 10.88 eV). Due to the use of many miniaturized components, the entire system has a weight of only 1.3 kg (excluding the helium cartridge) and dimensions of only 27 cm x 24 cm x 12 cm. It is capable of detecting formaldehyde down to 0.5 ppb (V/V) with a signal-to-noise ratio of 6 in only 11 min (including 6 min of sampling). Meanwhile, simultaneous separation and detection of other air pollution related toxic compounds, such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene, was also demonstrated by the 1-dimensional column and a flow-through micro-photoionization detector. The device developed here should have a broad range of applications in environmental protection, industries, space exploration, and battlefield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, we numerically investigate three-dimensional flow past a freely hanging stationary riser in catenary shape (referred to CR) with the angle of incoming flow direction with respect to the plane aligned with the CR ranging from α = 0 ∘ ∼ 90 ∘ at a low Reynolds number of 100. The flow dynamics are governed by the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations and a high-order spectral/ hp element method is employed for the solutions of the flow field. The numerical results present that the wake topology behind the CR is strongly influenced by the incoming flow direction. In particular, in the range of small angle of incoming flow direction (0 ∘ ≲ α ≲ 40 ∘), the wake is completely suppressed; in the medium range of 40 ∘ ≲ α ≲ 50 ∘ , vortex shedding is developed firstly at the top side of the concave part, and then gradually spread over the span towards the convex part; wake instability is developed sufficiently along the whole span when the flow incidence is over 50 ∘. The wake dynamics is further explored by examining the temporal evolution of hydro-forces and field quantities along the span and their frequency characteristics. It is revealed that the mechanism of axial flow that is varied along the span of CR can explain hydro-dynamics of the wake behavior of the CR. Highlights • The wake behind the catenary riser is categorized into different regimes depending on the inclination angle. • Some fundamental features of three dimensional wake behind a stationary catenary riser with different inclinations are presented. • Vortex shedding is developed firstly at the top side of the concave part of the CR, and then gradually spread over the span towards the convex part. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The DRD2 expression is regulated by its promoter region upstream factors or methylation status. • Cancer cell proliferation improved the upregulation of DRD2 and decreased DRD2's downregulation. • DRD2 plays a critical role in the FLNA-ERK signaling pathway. • DRD2 gene is hypomethylated in hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer or it's high-risk factor. We investigated the effect of stem cell marker dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) on the proliferation of hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer cells. High-throughput DNA methylation sequencing on an 850 K chip was used to pre-screen breast cancer tissues with significant methylation differences. The expression of DRD2 in breast cancer and normal breast tissues, and clinical risk factors, were detected by pyrophosphoric acid validation and immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo experiments verified the possible molecular signaling pathways. DRD2 promoter region was hypomethylated in hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer or with high-risk factors compared to the normal tissues. The proliferation of breast cancer cells was enhanced after DRD2 was upregulated and decreased after DRD2 was downregulated. In vivo experiments found that tumor growth and the expression of antigen KI-67 (Ki67) and the cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31) were improved by the overexpression of DRD2 and inhibited by the down expression of DRD2. In vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated the phosphorylation of filamin A and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (FLNA-ERK) was influenced by the expression of DRD2, suggesting DRD2 plays a role in the FLNA-ERK signaling pathway. Methylation inhibitors (5-aza-2-deoxycytidine, 5-azadc) partially reversed the inhibitory effect of DRD2 down expression on cell proliferation, migration, and tumor growth in animal models, indicating that inhibition of DRD2 methylation promotes cancer development. This study demonstrated the DRD2 promoter region is hypomethylated in hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer or with high-risk factors. The methylation status of the DRD2 promoter and FLNA-ERK signaling pathway and the DRD2 expression in breast cancer treatment need to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demand side management aims to match power demand to supply through cutting the peak and filling the valley, is one of the most important factors in smart grid. The real-time pricing (RTP) mechanism is an ideal method to adjust power balance between supply and demand. Its implementation has a profound impact on users’ behavior, and on operation and management of the power grid. In this research, we propose an expectation social welfare maximization model, considering the classification of the smart home appliances (SHA) and the correlation of power consumption of multi-time slots. Users can arrange their appliances more profitable and more closely to reality with the advantage of multi-time slots RTP strategy. The constraint in the model reflects the fluctuation (uncertainty) of power consumption caused by operating continuity of the SHA. By introducing probabilistic constraints, the uncertainty optimization model is transformed into a convex optimization problem. The existence and uniqueness of the optimal solution are shown, and its properties are further analyzed. Considering the convex optimization problem is separable in dual domain, this study proposes a decentralized online RTP algorithm to determine each user’s demand and energy supplier’s supply simultaneously. By utilizing Armijo line search to instead of fixed step size of the dual subgradient method, the decentralized online RTP algorithm proposed in this research can overcome the defects of slow convergence and even no convergence from the original dual subgradient method. Finally, the simulation validates the rationality and feasibility of optimization model by the decentralized online RTP algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fly ash (FA) can improve the workability and durability of concrete. However, the utilization of FA is usually limited due to its low pozzolanic activity. In this study, a fluidized bed reactor was designed to modify FA by the fluidized bed reactor–vapor deposition (FBR-VD), using NaOH solution as the activation material. We investigated the pozzolanicity of FBR-VD modified FA (MFA), and the workability of cement paste. The results were compared against traditional chemical activation method, using Ca(OH) 2 , NaOH, Na 2 SO 4 , or NaCl. The microstructures and hydration products were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC). The experimental results show that FBR-VD accelerates the early-age pozzolanic reaction of FA, without affecting the workability of the paste. The 7-day and 28-day activity indices of the paste and mortar with MFA were higher than those with raw FA, while the 60-day activity index of the paste became even close to that without FA. The SEM results indicate that FBR-VD can make the activation material coat onto the surfaces of the FA particles, breaking down part of the Si–O and Al–O bonds in the FA. The remaining NaOH crystals on the FA surface also promote the growth of Ca(OH) 2 crystals during the hydration process, so the FA particles are fixed tightly to the hardened cement paste, resulting in a higher compressive strength. TG-DSC shows that the MFA has a stronger effect on consuming the Ca(OH) 2 in the paste than traditional activation materials and methods, indicating an enhanced pozzolanic activity of the FA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wake of wavy cylinder has been shown to exhibit bistability. Depending on the initial condition, the final state of the wake can either develop into steady flow (state I), or periodic shedding (state II). In this paper, we perform numerical simulations to reveal the Reynolds number effects (R e = 30 – 300) on these two wake states. With increasing Reynolds number, the steady vortical structures in state I wake sways back and forth in the spanwise direction, resulting in low-frequency fluctuations in drag forces, but not in lift. For state II, the increase in Reynolds number is associated with the emergence of another spectral peak in the lift coefficient. The secondary frequency is associated with highly three-dimensional vortical structures in the wake. For both states, the wakes transition to turbulent flows at higher Reynolds numbers, with the development of small-scale vortices. We further study the streamwise gust flows over the wavy cylinder. The time-varying inflow velocity results in a wide range of instantaneous Reynolds number spanning from the absolutely unstable flow regime to the bistable regime. Depending on the period of the inflow velocity variation, the wake perturbations grown at the absolutely unstable flow regime can be damped out in state I wake, or grow large enough to trigger the transition to state II, resulting in loss of flow control efficacy. The above analyses reveal novel flow physics of the bistable states at unexplored Reynolds numbers, and showcase the complex transition behavior between the two states in unsteady flows. The insights gained from this study improve the understanding of the wake dynamics of the wavy cylinder. • The Reynolds number effects on the bistable states in the wake of a wavy cylinder are revealed. • A novel unsteady flow which only induces variations in drag but not in lift is discovered. • Complex transition behaviors between the two wake states in streamwise gust flow is unveiled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid-mediated domino reaction of ortho -carbonylated alkynyl-substituted arylaldehydes with phenols is described. The implement of this reaction can provide directly a variety of tetracyclic indeno[2,1- c ]chromen-7-one products in good yields. The mechanism was proposed to be a domino indanone ring formation/ortho-alkylation of phenols/dehydrated cyclization for the formation of polycyclic skeleton. In addition, several interesting dimeric products containing a pentacyclic scaffold were also afforded stereoselectively albeit in moderate yields. The present transformations feature the use of simple acid catalyst, short reaction time and good substrate scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to introduce fluidized bed reactor-vapor deposition (FBR-VD) into the modification of fly ash (FA) using the activators of NaOH, Na 2 SO 4 , and NaCl. The compressive strength, non-evaporable water and the hydration degree fly ash (HDFA) were investigated. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) Rietveld analysis were also conducted. The results demonstrate that FBR-VD can benefit the compressive strength when the dosage rates of NaOH, Na 2 SO 4 and NaCl are 0.1%, 0.5%, and 0.5%, respectively. The non-evaporable water and HDFA also increased at certain activator dosage rates. A modification layer consisting of nanometer-scale crystals forms on the surface of the FA beads, with NaOH or Na 2 SO 4 applied. NaOH can react with FA and promote its pozzolanic activity. Na 2 SO 4 and NaCl can benefit the HDFA by remaining undissolved, to increase their concentration around FA. The enhanced HDFA is also proved by the consumption of Ca(OH) 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposed Circular Electron Positron Collider (CEPC) will be primarily aimed for precision measurements of the discovered Higgs boson. Its innermost vertex detector, which will play a critical role in heavy-flavor tagging, must be constructed with fine-pitched silicon pixel sensors with low power consumption and fast readout. CMOS pixel sensor (CPS), as one of the most promising candidate technologies, has already demonstrated its excellent performance in several high energy physics experiments. Therefore it has been considered for R&D for the CEPC vertex detector. In this paper, we present the preliminary studies to improve the collected signal charge over the equivalent input capacitance ratio ( Q / C ) , which will be crucial to reduce the analog power consumption. We have performed detailed 3D device simulation and evaluated potential impacts from diode geometry, epitaxial layer properties and non-ionizing radiation damage. We have proposed a new approach to improve the treatment of the boundary conditions in simulation. Along with the TCAD simulation, we have designed the exploratory prototype utilizing the TowerJazz 0.18 μm CMOS imaging sensor process and we will verify the simulation results with future measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Interval analysis model is applied to quantify the uncertainties in the elastic wave tomography of concrete structures. • The relationship between the measurements error and tomography uncertainty was established. • The identified uncertain boundaries provide more information to make a better assessment of the internal condition of concrete. This paper presents a non-probabilistic uncertainty quantification method for the elastic wave tomography of concrete structures. An interval analysis model is applied to establish the relationship between the measurement error and identified tomography images. Measurements of parameters such as travel time and wave amplitude are modeled as intervals described by their upper and lower boundaries. Based on the straight-ray assumption of the wave propagation path, the relationship between wave velocity and travel time measurements is described by a set of linear equations. The inversion linear equation is converted into an extended fuzzy linear equation using interval analysis. Subsequently, a simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique is applied to solve this fuzzy linear equation. In contrast to the traditional methods, the obtained tomography images are described in terms of the upper and lower boundaries. Finally, numerical simulation and experimental investigation using several plain concrete models are conducted to verify the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the development of direct diode laser source with high-power and high reliability. The laser source was realized by the polarization and wavelength combination of four diode laser stacks. When at the operating current of 122 A, the source was capable of producing 10,120 W output while maintaining 46% electro-optical conversion efficiency. The maximum temperature on the lens was decreased from 442.2 K to 320 K by utilizing an efficient thermal dissipation structure, and the corresponding maximum von Mises stress was reduced from 75.4 MPa to 14 MPa. In addition, a reliability test demonstrated that our laser source was reliable and potential in the applications of laser cladding and heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scheelite ores endolithic arsenic (As) is commonly removed as a detrimental impurity element in the process of tungsten metallurgy. However, arsenic can refine tungsten grains significantly which was found by our team. In this study, refining mechanisms of arsenic in the hydrogen reduction process of tungsten oxide were discussed in detail by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The results showed that the WAs 2 intermediate phases played an important role as heterogeneous nucleation core for tungsten during the nucleation process. Moreover, the process of chemical vapor transport was hampered by volatilization of arsenic, which inhibited the growth of tungsten particles. The above two effects resulted in the W–1%As composite powder with the average size of about 80 nm in diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have revealed that fluid induced forces and wake structure of a cylinder can be significantly modified by varying the cross-section size along its axis. However, the fluid dynamic characteristics behavior of a flexible cable with a sinusoidal wavy surface remains unclear. The current study endeavors to present a systematic investigation of flow-induced vibrations (FIV) of an infinitely long wavy cable with different wave amplitude (A = 0. 1 D to 0. 3 D) and a constant spanwise wavelength λ = 4 π , by using a highly resolved direct numerical simulation employing a high-order spectral/ h p element method at a Reynolds number of 100, corresponding to laminar flow state. A tensioned beam model with a tension value can trigger a single wave is selected to govern the dynamics of the wavy cables. In addition, the structural dynamics are initialized from a standing wave. The present study focuses on the effects of the wave amplitude on the cable wake and the structural dynamic response, including the transverse displacement, wake pattern, vortex formation length, energy transfer, vortex shedding frequency and flow separation angle. Two completely different vibration modes are identified from the numerical cases studied, and hence the wavy cable are divided into control failure (A < 0. 2 D) and optimal wavy cable (0. 2 D ⩽ A ⩽ 0. 3 D) classes, respectively. It is also revealed that the counter-rotating vortices observed in the optimal wavy cables play an important role in stabilizing the shear layer and elongating the vortex formation length. Furthermore, the three-dimensional wake patterns of the wavy cable are mainly caused by the variations of flow separation angle along its spanwise direction. For the optimal wavy cables, the separation point is almost fixed along its spanwise direction while is variable for the control failure cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we are concerned with the following nonlinear Schrödinger–Poisson equation where are positive functions, the parameters , tend to and , respectively, as and . Under some simple assumptions on, we give existence and nonexistence results, depending on the parameters and . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The polymer-inorganic hybrid nanogels with temperature-responsive characteristic are of considerable current interest to many fields ranging from fundamental biomaterials science to bionanomedicine. This paper reports the preparation of temperature-responsive hybrid nanogels by immobilization of Bi2O3 quantum dots (QDs) in the interior of a nanogel of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). Unlike conventional temperature-responsive hybrid nanogels with the responsive features deriving from the temperature-responsive polymers (e.g. PNIPAMs or non-linear PEGs), we demonstrate that QDs can work cooperatively with the gel networks of PVA, an unconventional responsive polymer, to enable the temperature-induced volume phase transition of the designed Bi2O3@PVA hybrid nanogels. Building on the rationales, Bi2O3@PVA hybrid nanogels can adapt to a surrounding fluids of different temperatures over the physiologically important range of 37–40 °C, convert the disruptions in homeostasis of environmental temperature into high-sensitive fluorescent signals, enter into the mouse melanoma B16F10 cells for dark-field and fluorescence dual-modal imaging, and regulate the release of a model anticancer drug temozolomide. The unconventional strategy that can broaden the design scheme of temperature-responsive hybrid nanogels for theranostic action should enhance our ability to address the complexity of biological systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We recently found that repeated application of adenovectors expressing the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) or recombinant TRAIL proteins to TRAIL-susceptible cancer cells resulted in selection and expansion of TRAIL-resistant cells. Overcoming this acquired resistance to TRAIL is desirable for TRAIL-mediated cancer therapy. Here we demonstrate that several chemotherapeutic agents, including 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and mitomycin, and calpain inhibitor I, an NFκB inhibitor, can overcome acquired resistance to TRAIL in DLD1 colon cancer cells. The combination of TRAIL (approved gene symbol TNFSF10) gene therapy and 5-FU enhanced tumor suppression in vivo in nude mice bearing subcutaneous tumors established from TRAIL-resistant colon cancer cells. Whereas treatment with the combination of TRAIL and 5-FU or mitomycin led to enhanced activation of caspase-3, the combination of TRAIL and calpain inhibitor I resulted in enhanced activation of both caspase-8 and caspase-3. Moreover, mitomycin, but not 5-FU or calpain inhibitor I, induced overexpression of the BAX gene, which was correlated with enhanced TRAIL-induced cell killing in TRAIL-resistant DLD1 cells. Together, these results suggest that acquired resistance to TRAIL can be overcome by different mechanisms and that combinations of TRAIL gene therapy and chemotherapy may be a useful approach for cancer treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The steady-state mRNA levels of the NMDA receptor NR1 subunit were determined by a quantitative solution hybridization assay in selected CNS regions associated with antinociception in the rat. Tissues were obtained by microdissection from rats treated chronically with morphine alone or in combination with LY274614, a competitive NMDA receptor antagonist. Morphine treatment for 7 days resulted in the development of tolerance to morphine’s analgesic effect and produced a significant decrease in the steady-state NR1 mRNA levels in the spinal cord dorsal horn (by 16%), and an elevation in nucleus raphe magnus and medial thalamus (by 26 and 38%, respectively). The NR1 mRNA levels were unchanged in the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus, locus coeruleus, periaqueductal grey, and sensorimotor cortex. NMDA receptor binding in the spinal cord measured with [3H]MK-801 was reduced approximately 50% by chronic morphine treatment. Co-administration of LY274614 (s.c. at 24 mg/kg/24 h via an osmotic pump) not only attenuated the development of morphine tolerance but also prevented the changes in the NR1 mRNA levels induced by chronic morphine administration. Neither a 7-day infusion of LY274614 nor an acute injection of morphine (10 mg/kg, s.c.) changed the NR1 mRNA levels. These results suggest that changes in the expression of the NR1 mRNA induced by chronic morphine in three CNS regions involved in antinociception are associated with the development of morphine tolerance and in the spinal cord, morphine tolerance is associated with the downregulation of NMDA receptors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We investigated the ability of dextromethorphan, a clinically available NMDA receptor antagonist, to attenuate the behaviors and the expression of c-fos mRNA associated with acute morphine withdrawal in the 7-day-old rat. The intensity of the acute morphine withdrawal behaviors and the elevation in c-fos mRNA expression in the brain induced by acute morphine withdrawal were reduced by dextromethorphan. Thus, dextromethorphan can attenuate acute morphine withdrawal in the developing organism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A novel device and method are designed to orientally distribute fine and short steel fibers in the cement mortar. • The fiber orientation coefficient of UHPC with oriented steel fiber reaches 0.87 by using image processing method. • The theoretical prediction model of flexural-tensile strength based on composite and bending moment theories is provided. • The multiscale image analysis of the fracture surface reveals the enhancement mechanism. A novel device and method were designed to orientally distribute thin and short steel fibers in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). With the different volume fractions of steel fibers, the mechanical properties of UHPC with orientally distributed steel fibers (group D) and disorderly distributed steel fibers (group L) were compared and analyzed. The fiber orientation coefficient (η θ) by means of image processing and the theoretical prediction model of flexural-tensile strength based on composite and bending moment theories were studied. The multiscale image analysis of the fracture surface was applied to reveal the enhancement mechanism. The results demonstrate that the mechanical properties such as flexural strength, flexural-tensile strength, flexural toughness, and interfacial bonding strength of UHPC in group D are significantly promoted, in contrast to those in group L. The average η θ of 0.85 in group D indicates that this experimental method can substantially improve the arrangement of steel fibers, hereby the efficiency is improved. Besides, the proposed prediction model of flexural-tensile strength based on the composite and bending moment theories, showing a good agreement with the actual test values, is applicable to UHPC. Moreover, oriented steel fibers can produce excellent stress-dispersing and absorbing effects and, thus, play a significant role in strengthening and toughening. In contrast, randomly oriented steel fibers can easily fracture the surrounding matrix in a large area during the drawing process, resulting in the deterioration of mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ·The ultrasonic vibration and dispersants are used to disperse carbon fibers in the mortar. • ·The effect of multiple variables on the mechanical and electrical properties of CFRC are studied. • ·The modified mass variation coefficient is proposed to evaluate the fiber dispersion directly. • ·The micro information of CFRC is investigated by SEM, XRD, and BET. Uniform dispersion of carbon fibers is key to improving the properties of carbon fiber reinforced cement-based composites (CFRC). For the sake of high reliability, several methods were applied to measure the dispersed state of carbon fibers in the matrix. The mechanical and electrical properties of CFRC are assessed directly, while the mass variation coefficient, SEM, XRD, and BET appraise the dispersity indirectly. Experimental results indicate that the high fiber content is beneficial to the promotion of toughness and conductivity of CFRC, while the uniformity becomes enhanced by the higher dispersant content; the carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC) has outstanding dispersion effect compared with other additives. Moreover, the ductility of CFRC is more applicable for estimating the fiber dispersion, which eliminates the matrix interference, and the strength is considerably affected by the matrix defects. Finally, the fiber content has an impact on the macro-level properties of the composites, but the hydration products of mortar are hardly influenced by the dispersants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional high-order spectral/hp computations are carried out for a cylinder undergoing a sinusoidal rotary oscillation about its own axis. Results are examined for R e = 200 and a fixed oscillation amplitude of θ 0 = π. The study concentrates on a domain of forcing frequencies ranging from 0 to 5 f 0 , with f 0 being the natural shedding frequency of the fixed cylinder. The drag of the cylinder is measured to reduce by up to 22% at the optimal frequency. This drag reduction is expected to result from the appearance of negative pressure in the windward regions of cylinder surface. Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is then utilized to extract the energetic modes that govern the dynamics of the flow. A novel force decomposition technique proposed by Miyanawala and Jaiman (2019) is reformulated, to allow quantification of the time-dependent contribution from each mode to the pressure drag. Such contribution is found to be affected, in a manner, by the forcing frequency. POD is further used to characterize the spatially evolving nature of the forced wake as it undergoes a transition from the near-wake two-layer shedding pattern to the far-wake Kármán-like shedding pattern. It is also found that a few modes suffice to reconstruct the near-wake accurately, while more modes must be retained to ensure an accurate approximation of the far-wake. • The forced wake is found to be profoundly affected in terms of both its average topology and its dynamics. • A novel force decomposition technique is reformulated, to allow quantification of the time-dependent contribution from each POD mode to the pressure drag. • The spatially localized wake characteristics behind the rotary oscillating cylinder are faithfully correlated with the corresponding dominant POD modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A scalable multi-stage coherent polarization beam combining is introduced. • Four amplifiers are coherent polarization beam combined using this novel method. • An output of 6.9 W is obtained, and brightness is obtained by a factor of 3.3. We develop a scalable multi-stage beam combining system based on the superposition of four tapered diode laser amplifiers using the coherent polarization beam combining. By employing the combination of master oscillator power amplification and active phase control of each amplifier, a stable output power of 6.9 W is obtained with a nearly diffraction-limited beam quality. The combining efficiency is 72%, and the brightness is improved by a factor of 3.3 compared to that of a single amplifier. Our system provides a new solution to obtain a high-coherence and high-brightness diode laser beam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The FBR-VD method can effectively deposit different modifiers as nanometer-sized particles on the surface of FA. • Modifiers can break the glass network structure of FA and efficiently stimulate the pozzolanic activity of FA. • The surface of the modified FA permits the deposition of more hydration products than that of the unmodified FA. • The quantity of deposition as well as form of different modified samples are different. The nano-modification and hydration mechanisms of fly ash (FA) modified by fluidized bed reactor-vapor deposition (FBR-VD) has been analyzed microscopically. The experimental fluidized bed reactor (FBR) and chemicals such as HCl (HC), H 2 SO 4 (HS), NaOH (NH), and NaCl (NC) were used to modify the FA. The results show that the strength of samples modified by NH, HC, and NC increased at different ages, where the strength ratio of the sample modified by NC before 3 d exceeds 120%, while the strength of the FA-cement paste modified by HS decreased slightly in the early stage but increased in the later stage. By comparing FA and Ca(OH) 2 (CH) contents of different samples, it could be concluded that modifiers can activate the pozzolanic activity of FA and allow it to participate in the secondary hydration reaction earlier, resulting in higher the intensity of the FA-cement paste. The FBR-VD method can effectively deposit different modifiers as nanometer-sized particles on the surface of FA, causing them to react with FA, and through the changes in the binding energy of the elements, it was proved that the modifiers can break the glass network structure of FA and efficiently stimulate the pozzolanic activity of FA. In the FA-cement hardened paste, the surface of the modified FA permitted the deposition of more hydration products than that of the unmodified FA, and the quantity of deposition as well as form of different modified samples was different. Modifiers had a remarkable effect on the FA-cement hardened paste, effectively promoting the pozzolanic effect of FA and improving the strength of the hardened cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel welding model is introduced for the butt welding of tailor-welded blanks. • Inspection results prove that this method can satisfy the industrial requirement. • It can simplify processing procedures and improve production efficiency. Due to its excellent corrosion resistance and machinability, stainless-steel material has been widely used in many different areas, such as nuclear power and the aircraft industry. In these applications, the stainless-steel parts often consist of tailor-welded blanks with different thicknesses. It is crucial to keep the tailor-welded blanks of high quality in order to satisfy the demanding requirements. To make the welding process of tailor-welded blanks simple and efficient, a novel welding model for the eave-like structure is proposed in this paper. Based on this model, the butt welding of tailor-welded blanks with a plate thickness combination of 2.0 mm and 1.0 mm are successfully completed by high power diode laser sources. For further inspecting the performance of the welded bead, we analyze the microstructure and evaluate the mechanical strength. The results prove that our tailor-welded blanks can satisfy the industrial requirements. This work gives an experimental guide on the welding of tailor-welded blanks with different thicknesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The beam from diode laser is converted to a flat-top distribution for laser hardening. • A detailed investigation on HOSs with different parameters are simulated by using ZEMAX. • A Rockwell hardness of 57 HRC and a hardened depth of 1.6 mm are obtained on 35CrMo metal steel. In this paper, a laser beam from a fiber coupled diode laser source is converted from a Gaussian-like distribution to a flat-top distribution using a set of homogenization optical system, which makes this diode laser source more favorable for laser hardening. Employing this diode laser source, hardening experiments are performed on 35CrMo metal steel. By optimizing parameters of the hardening processing, at the scanning speed of 1100 mm/min and laser power of 1940 W, a Rockwell hardness of 57 HRC and a hardened depth of 1.6 mm are achieved. Experimental results demonstrate the processing ability of this diode laser source in the industrial laser hardening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Film thickness gradient along a column to achieve peak focusing. • Theoretical model and simulation to understand the underlying mechanism. • Experiments conducted with circular and rectangular columns under various conditions. • The technique is broadly applicable to various stationary phases and column types. This paper reports the development of a stationary phase thickness gradient gas chromatography (GC) column that enables analyte peak focusing and improves separation resolution. Theoretical analysis and simulation demonstrate focusing via a positive thickness gradient, i.e., the stationary phase thickness increases along the column. This effect was experimentally verified by coating a 5 m long capillary column with a film thickness varying from 34 nm at the column inlet to 241 nm at the column outlet. The column was analyzed in forward (thin to thick) and backward (thick to thin) modes and compared to a uniform thickness column with a thickness of 131 nm, using alkanes ranging from C 5 to C 16 and aromatics. Comparison of resolutions between forward mode and the uniform thickness column demonstrated an overall focusing rate (i.e., improvement in peak capacity) of 11.7% on alkanes and 28.2% on aromatics. The focusing effect was also demonstrated for isothermal room temperature separation of highly volatile compounds and temperature programmed separation with different ramping rates. In all cases, peak capacities from forward mode separations are higher than those from other modes, indicating the ability of a positive thickness gradient to focus analyte peaks. This thickness gradient technique can therefore be broadly applied to various stationary phases and column types as a general method for improving GC separation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), distant metastasis is the leading cause of death. Our previous studies have shown that TNBC progression is greatly facilitated by circKIF4A, but uncertainty remains regarding its role in TNBC brain metastasis and the molecular mechanism. In this study, we found notable upregulation of circKIF4A in TNBC cell lines and brain metastases. Inhibition of circKIF4A impaired the ability of TNBC to proliferate, migrate, and cause brain metastasis. Luciferase reporter assays confirmed that circKIF4A competed for binding to miR-637 with STAT3 3' UTR. Western blot analysis revealed that inhibition of circKIF4A decreased STAT3 and p62 expression, while increased the LC3B-II/LC3B–I ratio and the expression of Beclin, indicating that downregulation of circKIF4A induced autophagy by competing with STAT3 for binding to miR-637. By employing a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism, the circKIF4A-miR-637-STAT3 axis coordinates brain metastasis in TNBC. circKIF4A can therefore be used as a prognostic biomarker for brain metastasis in TNBC and as a therapeutic target. • CircKIF4A was notably upregulated in triple-negative breast cancer brain metastases and cell lines. • Inhibition of circKIF4A impairs invasion and brain metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer cells. • Downregulation of circKIF4A induced autophagy by competing with STAT3 for binding to miR-637. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a general network model called multi-progressive image deblurring network is proposed to correct blurring artifacts and local imaging details in underwater images. As a solution to nonuniform image distortion, a deformable convolution module was designed to enrich the encoded information of the image representation. Using a stepwise feature refinement module, multi-progressive image deblurring network can reduce the loss of contextual information to produce a more realistic underwater image for subsequent applications. Constructing a loss function based on multi-scale content can help the model improve image perception quality. We conducted experimental evaluations on large-scale image deblurring benchmark datasets, such as GoPro and HIDE, achieving excellent results with 32.84 dB and 31.03 dB peak signal-to-noise ratio, respectively, using the proposed method. Subsequently, a detailed optimization comparison was conducted on the in-house underwater image deblurring dataset. Multi-progressive image deblurring network obtained higher-quality, clearer images. Compared with the current state-of-the-art image deblurring algorithms, the proposed model achieved significant results with a 6.6% increase in deblur performance in peak signal-to-noise ratio. Finally, we conducted ablation experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of all the modules in the proposed framework. • Multi-progressive structure can hierarchically fuse global context information. • MPDNet outperforms almost all the SOTA methods on the benchmark datasets. • MPDNet is enough lightweight for deblurring tasks on mobile computing platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic element refines W powders significantly during the hydrogen reduction process of tungsten oxide in our previous studies. In this paper, the nanocrystalline WC-As composite powders were prepared by carbonization of nano W-As composite powders and the effects of arsenic on the growth of WC powder were discussed in detail. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetric analysis, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Inductively Coupled Plasma. The results showed that arsenic appropriately raised the initial temperature of carbonization, significantly accelerated carbonization reaction process and shorten the reaction time. Moreover, WC-As composite powders merged and grew up directly without particle expansion and cracking. And the nano WAs 2 particles attached to WC grain boundaries and hindered the growth of WC grain through grain boundary migration. The above two effects resulted in the WC-As composite powders prepared at 1300 °C for 2 h with the average size of about 121 nm in diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents two-dimensional unsteady Reynolds-Averaged-Navier–Stokes simulations of flow past a circular cylinder beneath a free surface at a Reynolds number of 4. 96 × 1 0 4 . The effects of the free surface on the wake dynamics and hydrodynamics are systematically examined over a parameter space consisting of the Froude number (0.2–0.8) and the gap ratio (0.1–2.0). For high Froude numbers, it is easier to agitate the water to produce violent surface distortion compared to low Froude numbers. Three surface deformation patterns are identified and the underlying mechanisms are proposed. The wake type transition from the wake featured a jet flow, to the one-sided vortex shedding, to the free-surface modulated Kármán vortex shedding, and to the pure Kármán vortex shedding is discussed in detail. The strength hierarchy between the three shear layers present in the wake plays a decisive role in the transition of the wake types. An extra recirculation zone appears near the free surface due to the blocking effect of the front blunt body. The proximity to the free surface exerts a modulation effect on the temporal and spectral characteristics of hydrodynamics. Relatively large mean drag force with substantial fluctuations can be induced when (unilateral or bilateral) vortex shedding process occurs. When a jet dominates the wake, the mean drag force stays at a low level and the hydrodynamic fluctuations are suppressed. The circular cylinder is always subjected to a downward thrust which increases as the cylinder approaches the free surface. The critical range of parameter combinations is provided when the wake dynamics and hydrodynamics are not influenced by the free surface. • Three surface distortion patterns are identified, featuring hydraulic jump and wave. • Five wake types are identified, underlying mechanisms are proposed. • Blockage of the cylinder induces an extra recirculation zone near the free surface. • The free surface exerts temporal and spectral modulations on the hydrodynamics. • Critical parameters are provided when the flow is not affected by the free surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfabricated gas chromatography (μGC) offers a powerful portable vapor analysis solution for various field applications. Here, we developed a microfluidically integrated architecture of a microfluidic photoionization detector (μPID) on a microfabricated column (μcolumn) via a silicon-on-insulator platform. By eliminating the off-chip interconnects, the microfluidically integrated column PID (iCPID) demonstrated a narrow peak width compared to the off-chip benchmark μPID. Furthermore, the iCPID sensitivity as a function of the bias voltage and temperature were characterized. Finally, an ultracompact (0.9 L, 0.9 kg), automated, and battery-operated μGC system without any benchtop components was constructed based on the iCPID. Rapid (2 min) isothermal separation of eight volatile compounds at room temperature was demonstrated. • Integration of a microfluidic photoionization detector with a microfabricated gas chromatography column on a chip. • Wafer-level batch processing on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform with a high yield. • Ultracompact, battery-operated μGC system with rapid chemical separation in ambient temperature using air as carrier gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the dynamics and flow characteristics of coarse particles within vertical lifting pipes is essential to ensure safe and efficient pipeline transportation. This study combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the discrete element method (DEM) to investigate the behavior of coarse particle solid–liquid two-phase flow in a vertical pipe utilized for deep-sea mining under forced vibration and compares it with that in stationary pipes. This study examined the effects of pipe amplitude, vibration frequency, and initial internal flow velocity separately. The amplitude values tested were 0 D (static), 1 D , 2 D , 3 D , and 4 D , where D represents pipe diameter. The vibration frequencies of 0 Hz (static), 0.25 Hz, 0.5 Hz, 1 Hz, and 2 Hz were tested, respectively. Finally, initial velocities of 1 m/s, 2 m/s, 3 m/s, and 4 m/s were tested. Compared with stationary pipes, particle-induced turbulence gradually disrupts the flow field, leading to a more dispersed particle volume distribution during pipe vibration. An increase in the amplitude and vibration frequency of the pipe results in an augmentation of the pressure drop within the pipe. By comparing the results of the vibrating pipe with those of the stationary pipe, the effect of the pipe vibration gradually weakened as the initial velocity increased. • Compared to stationary pipes, the particle-induced turbulence leads to a more dispersed particle volume distribution during pipe vibration. • An increase in the pipe amplitude and vibration frequency results in an augmentation of the pipe pressure drop. • The effect of pipe vibration gradually weakens as the initial velocity increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used a novel eco-friendly lightweight sand fine (LSF) to prepare green lightweight and high-strength ECC (GLH-ECC) for 3D printing. Orthogonal design, analysis of variance, and analytic hierarchy process were first employed to explore the influence of water-to-binder ratio (WBR), LSF replacement rate (LRR), and fiber volume content (FVC) on the printability of ECC fresh mortar. The influence degree of three factors on the fluidity, consistency, and setting time of fresh ECC was FVC >WBR >LRR, LRR> FVC > WBR, and WBR> LRR >FVC, respectively. Besides, the scopes of fluidity, consistency, and setting time for ensuring the favorable printability of fresh GLH-ECC were 172–183 mm, 7.4–8.0 cm, and 5.3–5.9 h, respectively. A novel mechanistic parametric model was developed to establish a direct correlation between the fluidity, consistency, setting time, and buildability of GLH-ECC. Additionally, higher effective fiber content along the direction of printing and incorporated LSF in printable GLH-ECC provided more appropriate interfacial bonding between the fiber and matrix and resultant better fiber bridging ability, in contrast to the casting ECC. Moreover, the fiber orientation in the printable GLH-ECC tended to be arranged along the direction of printing, and the well-organized fiber orientation and more matrix pores in the interlayer interface of printable GLH-ECC led to the notable anisotropy of mechanical properties. This study inspires applications of 3D-printed GLH-ECC in digital construction without reinforcement in terms of excellent printability, impressive mechanical properties, light weight, and effective waste utilization. • Novel LSF replaces quartz sand for GLH-ECC in 3D printing. • Orthogonal design, variance analysis, and hierarchy process assess GLH-ECC workability. • Mechanistic parametric model correlates fluidity, consistency, setting time, and buildability. • Tensile properties compare between printed and cast GLH-ECC. • CT scanning evaluates structural, microscopic features of 3D-printed GLH-ECC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A win-win real-time pricing strategy for smart grid is studied. • A holistic Markov decision process model is proposed. • Reinforcement learning methodology is adopted to solve the model. • A distributed online algorithm is designed to decide the electricity price adaptively. The real-time pricing (RTP) plays an important role in demand side management of smart grid. In this paper, a distributed RTP strategy which takes the interests of both supply and demand sides into consideration is studied. A holistic model focusing on the interactions between users and the power supplier is proposed in the framework of Markov decision process (MDP). The MDP presentation of smart appliances' operational processes well embodies their characteristics and the energy correlation of adjacent time slots. Different from existing ones, a novel distributed online algorithm based on a reinforcement learning approach is proposed to solve the MDP model without acquisition of the transition probabilities. Through information exchange between users and the power supplier, the real-time electricity price is decided adaptively, meanwhile, the optimal strategy of power supply and consumption is obtained. The specific information of the utility function for each user does not need to be disclosed to the supplier and other users. Simulation results show that the proposed model and algorithm balance energy supply and demand well, and have a good performance in peak shaving and valley filling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper identifies and characterizes modes of the three-dimensional instability of the flow over a circular cylinder of diameter D near a plane moving wall with a gap height of G = 0. 1 D beyond the onset of vortex shedding through the Floquet stability analysis. The associated effects of the transitions on the hydrodynamic forces of the cylinder are examined by performing direct numerical simulations. Six distinct three-dimensional modes are identified and their characteristics are discussed in detail. It is found that the physical mechanism responsible for the synchronous mode 1 appears to be associated to an elliptic instability. The quasi-periodic mode 4 is observed to transform to a synchronous mode (mode 6) on increasing the Reynolds number, indicating that they are likely to be resulted from the same physical mechanism. For mode 6, its physical nature seems to be a hyperbolic instability. Fully three-dimensional simulations show that the wake undergoes a rapid transition to complex chaotic flow state after the most dominant mode starts to saturate, due to the strongly nonlinear interactions of many modes with different spanwise wavelengths. • The presence of a plane moving wall in close proximity to a circular cylinder fundamentally alters the dynamics and the 3D wake transitions. • Six distinct modes of 3D instability are identified, their characteristics are discussed and the underlying physical mechanisms are proposed. • The three-dimensionality of the flow is triggered by different 3D instabilities as the Reynolds number is varied beyond the onset of vortex shedding. • The wake undergoes a rapid transition to complex chaotic flow state after the most dominant instability mode starts to saturate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 12 abietane diterpenoids were isolated and identified from Rosmarinus officinalis in which 6 ones were undescribed compounds. Their structures were illuminated by the HRESIMS, NMR, and ECD methods and named as rosmarinusin Q-V (1 – 6). It worthy mentioned that rosmarinusin Q was a novel abietane diterpenoid with 6/6/5 skeleton whose C ring was an α , β -unsaturated five-element ketone. All the compounds and four compounds (13 – 16) reported in our previous paper were evaluated their anti-neuroinflammatory activities on the LPS-induced BV2 cells. Compounds 5 , 8 , 9 , 11 , and 15 displayed significant anti-neuroinflammatory activity at the concentration of 10, 20, and 40 μM respectively. These results confirmed that R. officinalis contained abundant abietane diterpenoids and these compounds showed potential values of anti-neuroinflammation which could be developed as neuroprotective agents for the treatment of nerve damage caused by inflammation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, the blue top-emitting organic light-emitting devices (TEOLEDs) with different metal anodes are fabricated. The effect of different anode materials on the spectra and efficiency of blue TEOLEDs is studied. We demonstrate that Al is a more suitable anode material for blue TEOLEDs due to its larger phase shift on reflectance (PSR) than the other common metal materials, such as Ag and Au. The influence of light outcoupling layer (LOL) on the transmittance and PSR of cathode is also investigated to obtain the optimum condition for devices. Angle-independent electroluminescence (EL) spectra are obtained in blue TEOLEDs for each metal anode but the device with Al anode possesses higher efficiency and much thicker organic layers, which is beneficial to the lifetime of the device. These results offer a practicable platform for the realization of TEOLEDs based full-color displays and lightings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A 3-spot processing method is introduced for cladding stainless-steel ball valves. • Cladding of stainless-steel ball valves are completed with Ni60 + WC powder. • Cladded samples are free from any defects such as cracks and pores. In this paper, aiming to solve the problem of cracks in the laser cladding for stainless-steel ball valves, a novel method for defect-free processing is introduced. To realize this method, a 3-spot high-power diode laser source is developed. These three spots are respectively used for dynamic local preheating, laser cladding processing and dynamic local tempering. Using this high-power diode laser, a cladding processing of the stainless-steel ball valve with Ni60 + WC powder is successfully completed. Compared with the traditional processing approach, the cladded sample is free from any defects such as cracks and pores, which demonstrates the processing effect of this approach. This work provides a new method for the laser cladding of stainless-steel ball valves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel welding model is introduced for the butt welding of tailor-welded blanks. • Inspection results prove that this method can satisfy the industrial requirement. • It can simplify processing procedures and improve production efficiency. Due to weld defects occurred in the traditional laser welding of tailor-welded blanks with different thicknesses, a novel processing method is proposed in this paper. In this method, thin and thick metal plates are obliquely cut and then butt jointed to form an eave-like structure. When a laser beam irradiates on the marginal area of the thick plate, the molten metal flows into the gap and welds two plates together. Using this method, stainless steel tailor-welded blanks with a plate thickness combination of 2.0 mm and 1.0 mm are successfully welded by a diode laser source, and welded samples are free from cracks and pores. This method supplies a concise and quick processing way for the processing of tailor-welded blanks in industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper we investigate the existence of solutions of a class of four-point boundary value problems for a fourth order ordinary differential equation. Our analysis relies on a nonlinear alternative of Leray–Schauder type. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we construct complex weighted networks for seismicity based on space–time influence domain for three different regions and study the properties and correlations present in the networks. It is shown that links with high weight take a certain proportion in the networks. The results show that degree distribution, weight distribution, and nodal strength distribution of the weighted networks all obey power-law distribution for the three regions. Both the unweighted and weighted networks are found to be assortative mixing and hierarchical. On observation of the evolution of the average nodal strength and the strength of node that contains main shock, we find that they show an increasing trend before main shock from the data of California. The weighted form of earthquake network may be helpful to study the interactions between seismic activities and to model seismicity by complex networks. • We construct complex weighted networks for seismicity based on space–time influence domain. • Degrees, link weights, and nodal strength follow power-law distribution. • The unweighted and weighted networks are both assortative mixing and hierarchical. • Nodal strength shows an increasing trend before main shocks for California. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel lightweight and high-strength engineered cementitious composite was developed. • The deterioration degree of salt solutions on tensile properties of LECC was LECC-S > LECC-CS > LECC-C. • The external sulfate–chloride environment under low temperature offered highly suitable conditions for the formation of expansive thaumasite. • The combined physical and chemical attacks of sulfate promoted chloride diffusion, but chloride ion delayed sulfate's diffusion and expansion reaction. A novel lightweight high-strength engineered cementitious composite (LECC) was developed, and its mechanical property changes and the resultant durability evolution under the triple coupling factors of chloride attack, sulfate attack, and freeze–thaw cycles were studied. The results indicate that the salt solutions can accelerate the failure of LECC under freeze–thaw cycles. Salt solutions accelerated the tensile properties degradation of LECCs, and the deterioration degree was LECC-S (sulfate) > LECC-CS (chloride-sulfate) > LECC-C (chloride). The influence degree of salt solutions on mass loss was LECC-CS > LECC-C > LECC-S, while their influence on relative dynamic elastic modulus was LECC-S > LECC-CS > LECC-C. The surface spalling and internal structure destruction of LECC after salt freezing provided a favorable channel for CO 2 penetration in the environment and the external sulfate–chloride environment under low temperature offered highly suitable conditions for the formation of expansive thaumasite. The combined physical and chemical attacks of sulfate promoted chloride diffusion, but chloride ion delayed sulfate's diffusion and expansion reaction. This study more comprehensively revealed the durability development of LECC in some abominable environments and provided data support for the engineering application of LECC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemoglobin content is recognized as a momentous and fundamental physiological indicator, especially the precise detection of trace hemoglobin is of great significance for early diagnosis and prevention of tumors, cancer, organic injury, etc. Therefore, high-sensitivity hemoglobin detection is imperative. However, effective detection methods and reliable detection systems are still lacking and remain enormous challenges. Herein, we present a synthetical strategy to break through the existing bottleneck based on polarization-differential spectrophotometry and high-performance single-frequency green fiber laser. Importantly, this framework not only has precisely extracted the two-dimensional information of intensity and polarization during the interaction between laser and hemoglobin, but also has taken advantage of the high monochromaticity and fine directivity in the optimized laser source to reduce the undesirable scattered disturbance. Thus, the hemoglobin detection sensitivity of 7.2 × 10−5 g/L has advanced a hundredfold compared with conventional spectrophotometry, and the responsive dynamic range is close to six orders of magnitude. Results indicate that our technology can realize high-sensitivity detection of trace hemoglobin content, holding promising applications for precision medicine and early diagnosis as an optical direct and fast detection method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents numerical investigations of the flow-induced vibration of an elastically mounted elliptical cylinder with different aspect ratios. The cylinder is constrained to vibrate only in the cross-flow direction, with the major axis being perpendicular to the uniform flow. The Reynolds number, based on the free stream velocity and the major axis width, is fixed as 100. The aspect ratio (AR) is based on the minor axis width over the major axis width. By specifying AR = 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1, with a fixed mass ratio of 10, the fluid–cylinder interactions are simulated using a high-order Spectral/ hp element method to characterize the vibration responses, oscillation frequencies, fluctuating drag and lift coefficients, lock-in regimes and vorticity contours, with the variation of reduced velocities. A synchronization regime is found to be directly correlated with AR. For the lowest AR = 0.1, the elliptical cylinder response is found to be greater, as much as twice, than the circular cylinder response, by also exhibiting an earlier onset of the lock-in. The lack of the cylinder afterbody has a significant effect on the lower-branch response, resulting in a beating phenomenon and a rapid reduction in the response with decreasing AR. The effect of varying mass ratios is also investigated for low AR cases. The vortex shedding modes for all the response branches are found to be 2S with wake variants. A parallel vortex-shedding mode is noticed in a lower AR case with a large-amplitude oscillation whereas the C(2S) mode is observed in a higher AR case. • VIV of elliptical cylinders is investigated using Spectral/ hp element method. • Transverse responses and hydrodynamic features are simulated at Re =100. • Results highlight a significant effect of aspect ratio and cylinder afterbody. • Components of pressure versus viscous lift force fluctuations are described. • Variants of 2S vortex wake mode are observed behind elliptical cylinders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Developed ionic liquid coated microfabricated GC columns. • Characterized their performance in separating various VOCs at high temperatures and using dry air as the carrier gas. • Demonstrated their robustness to oxygen and humidity at high temperatures. • The columns developed in this work are broadly applicable to micro-GC devices to significantly reduce their size, weight, and operation costs, and increase their operation temperature range and lifetime. Micro gas chromatography (µGC) is a technique developed for rapid, in situ analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for environmental protection, industrial monitoring, and toxicology. While reduced µGC size and power requirements allow for increased portability, the low moisture and oxygen resilience of current microcolumn technology result in increased peak broadening and tailing for humid samples, which necessitates the use of bulky helium or nitrogen carrier gas cartridges. Developing a microcolumn to address these deficiencies is desirable to improve µGC field performance and further reduce µGC system size. This paper reports the development and characterization of a microfabricated phosphonium ionic liquid (µIL) column and demonstrates separation of both polar and nonpolar compounds using this column via analyses of alcohols, chloroalkanes, aromatics, aldehydes, fatty acid methyl esters, and alkanes. The µIL column achieved operation at temperatures up to 345 °C for fatty acid methyl ester and alkane separation. Notably, all separations in this study used dry air as the carrier gas, showing that analysis of a diverse range of compounds was possible in the presence of oxygen. After exposure to dry air for 48 h at temperatures up to 220 °C, the µIL column's peak capacity was only degraded by 8.92%, which validated its long-term robustness against oxygen. The column's separation performance was not degraded by high moisture concentrations or long-term moisture exposure, also manifesting its robustness to moisture. The high temperature, moisture, and oxygen resilience of the µIL column enable more rapid separations in varying field environments without requiring additional µGC accessories (e.g., humidity filters and carrier gas cartridges). The µIL column is therefore expected to be useful for integration into future µGC devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweetpotato weevil is among the most harmful pests in some major sweetpotato growing areas with warm climates. To enable the future establishment of safe weevil-resistance strategies, anti-weevil metabolites from sweetpotato should be investigated. In the present study, we pretreated sweetpotato leaves with exogenous chlorogenic acid and then exposed them to sweetpotato weevils to evaluate this compound's anti-insect activity. We found that chlorogenic acid applied to sweetpotato conferred significant resistance against sweetpotato-weevil feeding. We also observed enhanced levels of chlorogenic acid in response to weevil attack in sweetpotato leaves. To clarify how sweetpotato weevils regulate the generation of chlorogenic acid, we examined key elements of plant-herbivore interaction: continuous wounding and phytohormones participating in chlorogenic acid formation. According to our results, sweetpotato weevil-derived continuous wounding induces increases in phytohormones, including jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, and abscisic acid. These phytohormones can upregulate expression levels of genes involved in chlorogenic acid formation, such as IbPAL , IbC4H and IbHQT , thereby leading to enhanced chlorogenic acid generation. This information should contribute to understanding of the occurrence and formation of natural anti-weevil metabolites in sweetpotato in response to insect attack and provides critical targets for the future breeding of anti-weevil sweetpotato cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]