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The contribution of this investigation lies in solving a sampled‐data output feedback stabilization problem for a class of upper‐triangular stochastic nonlinear systems in p$$ p $$‐normal structure with unavailable states and uncertain time‐varying input delay. A reduced‐order observer with the available sampled output detection is developed for the focused system to estimate its unavailable states, and under such observer, a sampled‐data output feedback stabilizer is constructed by combining the backstepping and adding a power integral techniques. Through selecting the appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals, we can demonstrate that the adverse influences caused by the uncertain time‐varying delays in the resulting closed‐loop system can be restricted effectively by the constructed stabilizer, and further, by following the stochastic differential theories, the global stability of the considered resulting closed‐loop system can be analyzed under the suitable design parameters and allowable sampling period. Finally, two examples are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Poor solubility caused by thermal aggregation usually limits the utilisation of soy proteins in food industry. In this study, the anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), was found to be effective in suppressing thermal aggregation of glycinin which was the main composition of the insoluble aggregates of soy proteins. Turbidity, dynamic light scattering, surface tension, circular dichroism and fluorescence spectra analysis were used to reveal the mechanism for the inhibitory of thermal aggregation by SDS. Bound to SDS, the exposed hydrophobic groups on the protein molecules were covered by the ionic head groups of SDS. The approaching of the particles was unavailable in the presence of the strong electrostatic repulsive force. Therefore, the particles remained stable and disperse. Thermal aggregation was not effectively suppressed until the binding sites which interacted with SDS on the glycinin molecules were saturated. The strategy for improving the solubility of food protein was also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the interactive effects of iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) availability on the growth rates, Cu quotas, and steady-state Cu-uptake rates (ρssCu) of 12 phytoplankton (from four classes and two marine environments). A mixed-effect statistical model indicated that low Fe significantly decreased phytoplankton growth rates. In contrast, lowering Cu levels only decreased the growth rates of the oceanic phytoplankton. Under Fe/Cu sufficiency, the Cu quotas ranged from 0.36 to 3.8 μmol Cu · mol−1 C. Copper levels in the growth medium had a significant positive effect on the Cu quotas, and this effect was dependent on the algal class. Under Fe/Cu sufficiency, the highest average Cu quotas were observed for the Bacillariophyceae, followed by the Cyanophyceae, Prymnesiophyceae, and lastly the Dinophyceae. Similar taxonomic trends were observed for the ρssCu. Although the Cu:C ratios were not significantly higher in oceanic strains, there are five independent lines of evidence supporting a more important role of Cu in the physiology of the oceanic phytoplankton. The mixed-effect model indicated a significant Cu effect on the growth rates and ρssCu of the oceanic strains, but not the coastal strains. In addition, lowering the Cu concentration in the media decreased the Cu quotas and ρssCu of the oceanic strains to a greater extent (5.5- and 5.4-fold, respectively) than those of the coastals (3.8- and 4.7-fold, respectively). Iron limitation only had a significant effect on the Cu quotas of the oceanic strains, and this effect was dependent on Cu level and taxonomic class. Our results highlight a complex physiological interaction between Fe and Cu in marine phytoplankton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY A generalized refined Arnoldi method based on the weighted inner product is presented for computing PageRank. The properties of the generalized refined Arnoldi method were studied. To speed up the convergence performance for computing PageRank, we propose to change the weights adaptively where the weights are calculated based on the current residual corresponding to the approximate PageRank vector. Numerical results show that the proposed Arnoldi method converges faster than existing methods, in particular when the damping factor is large. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated copper (Cu) acquisition mechanisms and uptake kinetics of the marine diatoms Thalassiosira oceanica Hasle, an oceanic strain, and Thalassiosira pseudonana Hasle et Heimdal, a coastal strain, grown under replete and limiting iron (Fe) and Cu availabilities. The Cu-uptake kinetics of these two diatoms followed classical Michaelis-Menten kinetics. Biphasic uptake kinetics as a function of Cu concentration were observed, suggesting the presence of both high- and low-affinity Cu-transport systems. The half-saturation constants ( K) and the maximum Cu-uptake rates ( V) of the high-affinity Cu-transport systems (∼7-350 nM and 1.5-17 zmol · μm · h, respectively) were significantly lower than those of the low-affinity systems (>800 nM and 30-250 zmol · μm · h, respectively). The two Cu-transport systems were controlled differently by low Fe and/or Cu. The high-affinity Cu-transport system of both diatoms was down-regulated under Fe limitation. Under optimal-Fe and low-Cu growth conditions, the K of the high-affinity transport system of T. oceanica was lower (7.3 nM) than that of T. pseudonana (373 nM), indicating that T. oceanica had a better ability to acquire Cu at subsaturating concentrations. When Fe was sufficient, the low-affinity Cu-transport system of T. oceanica saturated at 2,000 nM Cu, while that of T. pseudonana did not saturate, indicating different Cu-transport regulation by these two diatoms. Using CuEDTA as a model organic complex, our results also suggest that diatoms might be able to access Cu bound within organic Cu complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We cloned in silico a novel human UDP-GalNAc:polypeptide N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (pp-GalNAc-T), pp-GalNAc-T12. The deduced amino acid sequence of pp-GalNAc-T12 contains all conserved motifs in pp-GalNAc-T family proteins. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the pp-GalNAc-T12 transcript was expressed mainly in digestive organs such as stomach, small intestine and colon. The recombinant pp-GalNAc-T12 transferred GalNAc to the mucin-derived peptides such as the Muc1a, Muc5AC, EA2 peptides and the GalNAc-Muc5AC glycopeptide. Since mucins are glycoproteins mainly produced in the digestive organs, our results suggest that pp-GalNAc-T12 plays an important role in the initial step of mucin-type oligosaccharide biosynthesis in digestive organs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cryospheric responses to climate warming include glacier retreat, altitude‐dependent thermal instability, and abundant meltwater, which increase the frequency of catastrophic glacier hazard chain (CGHC) events. Here we investigated the formation mechanism of a special CGHC event in 2018, in the Sedongpu Glacier, Eastern Himalayas, China. Based on the multi‐source remote sensing, seismic signal analysis, and numerical simulation, we conducted long‐term retrospective analysis and co‐event process reconstruction. The results show that the event could be divided into two phases. First, the hanging glacier with a volume of 8.5 × 106 m3 collapsed onto the downstream trunk glacier. Next, ∼1.17 × 108 m3 eroded materials from the impacted glacier transformed into debris flow and traveled downstream 8 km. During the cascading process, ice‐rock avalanche momentum and glacier velocity are key factors in determining CGHC formation and eventual volume. Our study helps better understand the domino effects of the CGHC disaster. Plain Language Summary: Glacier instability in cryosphere is significantly influenced by global warming. The glacial lake outburst floods are the most widely studied and catastrophic events resulting from this instability, but they are not the only ones. In recent years, increasing catastrophic glacier hazard chain (CGHC) events have reminded us of disasters during climate warming, especially in the Himalayas region. Here, we report a typical CGHC event in the Eastern Himalayas, where the retreated glaciers are widely distributed. Based on our observations and simulations, we completed the retrospective analysis of CGHC through its formation conditions, evolution process, and specific kinematic process. These analyses help us understand the driving mechanism, the volume‐increasing effect, and the super‐fluidity of CGHC. Our findings help improve such hazard chain identification and mitigation in the Eastern Himalayas and glacierized environments elsewhere in the world. Key Points: New insights of Ice‐rock avalanche hazard chain on retreated hanging glacier in Eastern HimalayaErosion process on the trunk glacier led to a volume‐increasing and super‐fluidity of catastrophic glacier hazard chain (CGHC)The pre‐evolution and formation of CGHC were closely related to climate warming [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The manufacturing process parameters play a critical role in determining the quality of resin‐matrix composite structures. This study aims to investigate the impact of process parameters on void content and identify the stable and minimal void content of nano‐reinforced filament‐wound risers. Fourteen process parameters were initially designed, taking into account winding tension, speed, and curing time, based on the Box–Behnken design method. Subsequently, a void content model was developed using the response surface method, utilizing experimental data. The study further explores the effects of individual and combined process parameters on void content and establishes a stable process window through sensitivity analysis. Finally, the PSO‐GWO algorithm is employed to optimize winding tension, speed, and curing time with the objective of reducing void content. The results of the numerical analysis highlight the significant influence of curing time on void content, and the optimal parametric combination is determined to be 48.4 N winding tension, 12.6 m/min winding speed, and 6.7 h of curing time. Highlights: Winding tension and rate have a similar impact on porosity content.Void content sensitivity to tension is affected by feed rate and curing time.The stable process windows are winding tension [28 N, 53 N], feed rate [30%, 78%], and curing time [5.1 h, 8.4 h].The optimal parameters combination is 48.4 N, 63%, and 6.7 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve predefined‐time trajectory tracking control of a flexible‐joint space robot(FJSR) with actuator constraints, a nonsingular predefined‐time dynamic surface control scheme is developed. The input saturation caused by actuator constraints is addressed via the designed predefined‐time anti‐saturation compensator. On this basis, two different control laws are designed for such high‐order nonlinear systems by utilizing the backstepping technique, and a novel nonlinear filter is constructed to filter the virtual control signals, thus avoiding the "differential expansion" phenomenon. Moreover, a singularity‐free auxiliary function is designed to solve the singularity issue generated by the derivative of fractional power terms in the predefined‐time control algorithm framework. The closed‐loop system is proven to be semi‐globally predefined‐timely uniformly ultimately bounded (SGPTUUB) via constructing the suitable Lyapunov function. The difference and effectiveness of the two designed control laws are illustrated by the conducted simulations. Both of them allow the FJSR system to track the desired trajectory in a reasonably predefined time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal upwelling currents such as the California Current System (CCS) comprise some of the most productive biological systems on the planet. Diatoms dominate these upwelling events in part due to their rapid response to nutrient entrainment. In this region, they may also be limited by the micronutrient iron (Fe), an important trace element primarily involved in photosynthesis and nitrogen assimilation. The mechanisms behind how diatoms physiologically acclimate to the different stages of the upwelling conveyor belt cycle remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we explore their physiological and metatranscriptomic response to the upwelling cycle with respect to the Fe limitation mosaic that exists in the CCS. Subsurface, natural plankton assemblages that would potentially seed surface blooms were examined over wide and narrow shelf regions. The initial biomass and physiological state of the phytoplankton community had a large impact on the overall response to simulated upwelling. Following on‐deck incubations under varying Fe physiological states, our results suggest that diatoms quickly dominated the blooms by "frontloading" nitrogen assimilation genes prior to upwelling. However, diatoms subjected to induced Fe limitation exhibited reductions in carbon and nitrogen uptake and decreasing biomass accumulation. Simultaneously, they exhibited a distinct gene expression response which included increased expression of Fe‐starvation induced proteins and decreased expression of nitrogen assimilation and photosynthesis genes. These findings may have significant implications for upwelling events in future oceans, where changes in ocean conditions are projected to amplify the gradient of Fe limitation in coastal upwelling regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure of the title complex, trans-dichloridotetrakis[1-phenyl-3-(1 H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl-κ N4)propan-1-one]copper(II) hexahydrate, [CuCl2(C11H11N3O)4]·6H2O, is isomorphous with that of the corresponding nickel and cobalt compounds. The complex has crystallographic inversion symmetry with the CuII atom on an inversion centre. Each CuII atom is six-coordinated by one N atom from each of the four 1-phenyl-3-(1 H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)propan-1-one ligands in the equatorial plane and by two chloride ligands in axial positions. The structure includes a centrosymmetric irregular up-up-down-down (uudd) water tetramer cluster and O-H...Cl hydrogen bonds. Intermolecular C-H...Cl hydrogen bonds exist between adjacent molecules, resulting in a three-dimensional supramolecular network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α/β-Si3N4 composites with various α/β phase ratios were prepared by hot pressing at 1600°–1650°C with MgSiN2 as sintering additives. An excellent combination of mechanical properties (Vickers indentation hardness of 23.1 GPa, fracture strength of about 1000MPa, and toughness of 6.3 MPa·m1/2) could be obtained. Compared with conventional Si3N4-based ceramics, this new material has obvious advantages. It is as hard as typical in-situ-reinforced α-Sialon, but much stronger than the latter (700 MPa). It has comparable fracture strength and toughness, but is much harder than β-Si3N4 ceramics (16 GPa). The microstructures and mechanical properties can be tailored by choosing the additive and controlling the heating schedule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoalexins play a crucial role in plant immunity. However, the mechanism of how phytoalexin is primed by beneficial microorganisms against broad‐spectrum pathogens remains elusive. This study showed that Bacillus cereus AR156 could trigger ISR against broad‐spectrum disease. RNA‐sequencing and camalexin content assays showed that AR156‐triggered ISR can prime the accumulation of camalexin synthesis and secretion‐related genes. Moreover, it was found that AR156‐triggered ISR elevates camalexin accumulation by increasing the expression of camalexin synthesis genes upon pathogen infection. We observed that the priming of camalexin accumulation by AR156 was abolished in cyp71a13 and pad3 mutants. Further investigations reveal that in the wrky33 mutant, the ability of AR156 to prime camalexin accumulation is abolished, and the mediated ISR against the three pathogens is significantly compromised. Furthermore, PEN3 and PDR12, acting as camalexin transporters, participate in AR156‐induced ISR against broad‐spectrum pathogens differently. In addition, salicylic acid and JA/ET signalling pathways participate in AR156‐primed camalexin synthesis to resist pathogens in different forms depending on the pathogen. In summary, B. cereus AR156 triggers ISR against Botrytis cinerea, Pst DC3000 and Phytophthora capsici by priming camalexin synthesis. Our study provides deeper insights into the significant role of camalexin for AR156‐induced ISR against broad‐spectrum pathogens. Summary statement: Beneficial rhizobacterium AR156 triggered ISR by enhancing camalexin accumulation in Arabidopsis, with WRKY33 acting as a positive regulator. PEN3 and PDR12 are involved in AR156‐induced ISR. Salicylic acid and JA/ET signalling pathways participate in AR156‐primed camalexin synthesis to resist various pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese Tajiks are an Indo‐Iranian‐speaking population in Xinjiang, northwest China. Although the complex demographic history has been characterized, the ancestral sources and genetic admixture of Indo‐Iranian‐speaking groups in this region remain poorly understood. We here provide the genome‐wide genotyping data for over 700 000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and mtDNA multiplex sequencing data in 64 Chinese male Tajik individuals from two dialect groups, Wakhi and Selekur. We applied principal component analysis (PCA), ADMIXTURE, f‐statistics, treemix, qpWave/qpAdm, Admixture‐induced Linkage Disequilibrium for Evolutionary Relationships (ALDER), and Fst analyses to infer a fine‐scale population genetic structure and admixture history. Our results reveal that Chinese Tajiks showed the closest affinity and similar genetic admixture pattern with ancient Xinjiang populations, especially Xinjiang samples in the historical era. Chinese Tajiks also have gene flow from European and Neolithic Iran farmers‐related populations. We observed a genetic substructure in the two Tajik dialect groups. The Selekur‐speaking group who lived in the county had more gene flow from East Asians than Wakhi‐speaking people who inhabited the village. These results document the population movements contributed to the influx of diverse ancestries in the Xinjiang region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The aim was to investigate the neurological complications associated with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) during the 2022 Omicron wave. Methods and analysis: The medical records of a cohort of people admitted to neurological wards of three participating tertiary centres in Sichuan from 12 December 2022 to 12 January 2023 were reviewed. Demographics and clinical data were obtained and analysed with an interest in COVID‐19‐related new‐onset or worse neurological symptoms. The current data were also compared in two centres with similar data from the same period 12 months earlier. Results: In all, 790 people were enrolled, of whom 436 were positive for COVID‐19. Ninety‐nine had new onset COVID‐related neurological problems, or their known neurological condition deteriorated during the wave. There was a significant difference in demographics from the findings amongst admissions 12 months earlier as there was an increase in the average age, the incidence of encephalitis and encephalopathy, and mortality rates. One hundred and one received COVID‐specific antivirals, intravenous glucocorticoids and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. No differences were seen between these and those who did not use them. Conclusion: New‐onset neurological conditions, particularly encephalitis and encephalopathy, increased significantly during this period. Deterioration of existing neurological conditions, such as seizure exacerbation, was also observed. A large‐scale treatment trial of people with COVID‐19 infection presenting with neurological disorders is still needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims/Introduction: Type 2 diabetes triggers an inflammatory response that can damage red blood cells. M2 macrophages have inhibitory effects on inflammation, and play an important role in tissue damage repair and fibrosis. Autologous blood transfusion has the potential to inhibit red blood cell damage by mediating macrophage polarization. Materials and Methods: Swiss mice were used to establish a suitable type 2 diabetes model, and autologous blood transfusion was carried out. The mice were killed, the blood of the mice was collected and CD14+ monocytes were sorted. The expression levels of phenotypic molecules CD16, CD32 and CD206 in CD14+ monocytes were analyzed by flow cytometry. The proportion of M1 and M2 macrophages were analyzed by flow cytometry. The Q value, P50, 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate and Na+‐K+‐ATPase of red blood cells were detected. The red blood cell osmotic fragility test analyzed the red blood cell osmotic fragility. Western blot analysis was used to analyze the expression changes of erythrocyte surface membrane proteins or transporters erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1, sphingosine‐1‐phosphate, glycolipid transfer protein and signal peptide peptidase‐like 2A. Results: Autologous blood transfusion induced a significant increase in the number of macrophages. The state and capacity of blood cells improved with autologous blood transfusion. Reinfusion of fresh autologous blood in type 2 diabetes mice made erythrocytes shrink. The expression of erythrocyte‐related proteins proved that the erythrocyte injury in the reinfusion of fresh autologous blood + type 2 diabetes group was significantly reduced. Conclusion: The reinfusion of fresh autologous blood into the body of patients with type 2 diabetes can induce macrophage polarization to M2, thereby inhibiting red blood cell damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of an oral sequential triple combination therapy with selexipag after dual combination therapy with endothelin receptor antagonist (ERA) and phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitor (PDE5I)/riociguat in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients. A total of 192 PAH patients from 10 centers had received oral sequential selexipag therapy after being on dual‐combination therapy with ERA and PDE5i/riociguat for a minimum of 3 months. Clinical data were collected at baseline and after 6 months of treatment. The study analyzed the event‐free survival at 6 months and all‐cause death over 2 years. At baseline, the distribution of patients among the risk groups was as follows: 22 in the low‐risk group, 35 in the intermediate‐low‐risk group, 91 in the intermediate‐high‐risk group, and 44 in the high‐risk group. After 6 months of treatment, the oral sequential triple combination therapy resulted in reduced NT‐proBNP levels (media from 1604 to 678 pg/mL), a decline in the percentage of WHO‐FC III/IV (from 79.2% to 60.4%), an increased in the 6MWD (from 325 ± 147 to 378 ± 143 m) and a rise in the percentage of patients with three low‐risk criteria (from 5.7% to 13.5%). Among the low‐risk group, there was an improvement in the right heart remodeling, marked by a decrease in right atrium area and eccentricity index. The intermediate‐low‐risk group exhibited significant enhancements in WHO‐FC and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion. For those in the intermediate‐high and high‐risk groups, there were marked improvements in activity tolerance, as reflected by WHO‐FC and 6MWD. The event‐free survival rate at 6 months stood at 88%. Over the long‐term follow‐up, the survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 86.5% and 86.0%, respectively. In conclusion, the oral sequential triple combination therapy enhanced both exercise capacity and cardiac remodeling across PAH patients of different risk stratifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The West Liao River (WLR) and Yellow River (YR) basins are two major centers of millet farming in northern China. The result from flotation analyses and the spatial distribution of archeological sites indicate that two distinct survival strategies—agriculture and pastoralism were adopted in the southern and western regions of the WLR. Previous studies of ancient populations from the western area of the WLR suggested a correlation between a pastoral economy in the Bronze Age Upper Xiajiadian culture with a decreased genetic affinity with YR farmers. However, the population history of the southern WLR is unknown mainly due to the lack of ancient genetic data. Here we report the genomic data of an ancient individual from the Majiazishan site from the Late Bronze Age southern WLR region associated with Upper Xiajiadian culture. Unlike individuals from western WLR, this individual derived ancestry entirely from Late Neolithic YR farmers. We found a genetic substructure of the ancient human population of Upper Xiajiadian culture, which is consistent with the differences in the subsistence strategies of western and southern WLR. Climate deterioration led to different populations occupying the west and the south, respectively, in the WLR: the nomadic population from the Amur River (AR) in the west and the agricultural population from the YR in the south. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the metabolic transformations of a potential drug molecule is important to understanding the safety profile of a drug candidate. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry is a standard method for detecting metabolites in the drug discovery stage, but this can lead to an incomplete understanding of the molecule's metabolism. In this manuscript, we highlight the role radiolabeling played in determining the metabolism and in quantifying the metabolites of AZD8529, AZD7325, and AZD6280. A quantitative whole‐body autoradiography study can detect covalent adducts in vivo as was the case with AZD5248 in which the compound was bound to the aorta. Ultimately another compound free of aortic binding was developed, AZD7986. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, using thiolated graphene oxide (GO‐O‐SH) as substrate, gold nanorods (AuNRs) covalently linked to the GO surface by in‐situ seed growth method were first reported. The as‐prepared composites were characterized by UV–vis spectrum, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). Experimental results indicated that the introduction of short flexible organic chain between GO and AuNRs contributed to the homogenous synthesis of gold rods, and uniform gold nanorods with aspect ratio within 3~8 were covalently linked to the surface of GO with high stability and yield. The strategy represented an outstanding improvement in comparison to the traditional route for fabricating GO@AuNRs composites. Furthermore, based on coupling of the two nanomaterials, the composites could act as high sensitive Raman probe with limit of detection (LOD) reaching 1 × 10−12 M. In this paper, using thiolated graphene oxide (GO‐O‐SH) as substrate, gold nanorods (AuNRs) were covalently synthesized on the GO surface by in‐situ seed growth method. The strategy represents an outstanding improvement in comparison to the traditional route for fabricating GO@AuNRs composites. The as‐prepared GO@AuNRs can act as ultrasensitive Raman probe with limit of detection (LOD) reaching 1 × 10−12 M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the merit of very‐short end turns, Gramme‐ring windings are widely used in high‐speed permanent‐magnet motors (HSPMMs). This study investigated the thermal issues of a 300 kW, 12,000 rpm Gramme‐ring‐winding HPSMM with housing water jacket and forced air cooling, based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and numerical heat‐transfer calculations. The reasons that cause the overheat of the prototype in the experimental test are thoroughly analysed. The high wind resistance of air gap as the ventilation duct and the large interface gap between the stator lamination and housing water jacket is thought to be the main reasons. Then improvement of the ventilation structures is studied to decrease the wind resistance. Besides, the modification of water channels is also investigated to avoid the influence of a large interface gap on the water cooling performance. Finally, a new cooling structure, combining the slot ventilation ducts and inside water channels, is proposed for the HSPMM with Gramme‐ring windings. With the new cooling structure, the temperature rise of the motor is decreased, and the power density can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the consensus tracking control problem is considered for a class of second‐order non‐linear multi‐agent systems with unmodelled dynamics. Radial basis function neural networks are introduced to approximate the unknown non‐linearities and a dynamic signal is utilised to deal with the unmodelled dynamics. Meanwhile, appropriate Lyapunov functions are constructed and a new distributed adaptive control protocol is designed to guarantee that all the tracking error signals in the considered multi‐agent systems are ultimately bounded, under which the distributed tracking consensus is reached for all undirected connected communication graphs. Finally, two demonstrative examples are given to illustrate the validity of the designed protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The layered metal phosphorus trichalcogenides (MPTs) are a newly emerging van der Waals material family with bandgaps ranging from 1.3 to 3.5 eV, which are promising candidates for optoelectronic devices. By using the excited multiple energy levels of FePSe3, a high‐performance FePSe3 photodetector, which shows tunable response speed in the range of ultraviolet (UV) to near‐infrared (NIR), is designed. The FePSe3 photodetector exhibits a high photoresponsivity of 236.18 A·W−1 under 532 nm laser illumination (laser power density P = 1 mW cm−2). The properties of FePSe3 can be modulated by oxygen plasma treatment, which transfer to oxygen‐doped FePSe3 (FePSe3‐O). Moreover, the speed of the FePSe3‐O photodetector can be improved more than 240 times compared to the intrinsic FePSe3 photodetector under NIR illumination (λ = 808 nm). In addition, the FePSe3‐graphene heterojunction can significantly improve the photoresponsivity and simultaneously prolong the response time of the device due to the FePSe3/graphene interfacial barrier. These results suggest that intrinsic, doped FePSe3 and its heterojunction can be used as multifunctional photodetectors with tunable response speeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoporous carbons (NPCs) with engineered specific pore sizes and sufficiently high porosities (both specific surface area and pore volume) are necessary for storing energy in the form of electric charges and molecules. Herein, NPCs, derived from biomass pine‐cones, coffee‐grounds, graphene‐oxide and metal‐organic frameworks, with systematically increased pore width (<1.0 nm to a few nm), micropore volume (0.2–0.9 cm3 g−1) and specific surface area (800–2800 m2 g−1) are presented. Superior CO2, H2, and H2O uptakes of 35.0 wt% (≈7.9 mmol g−1 at 273 K), 3.0 wt% (at 77 K) and 85.0 wt% (at 298 K), respectively at 1 bar, are achieved. At controlled microporosity, supercapacitors deliver impressive performance with a capacity of 320 and 230 F g−1 at 500 mA g−1, in aqueous and organic electrolytes, respectively. Excellent areal capacitance and energy density (>50 Wh kg−1 at high power density, 1000 W kg−1) are achieved to form the highest reported values among the range of carbons in the literature. The noteworthy energy storage performance of the NPCs for all five cases (CO2, H2, H2O, and capacitance in aqueous and organic electrolytes) is highlighted by direct comparison to numerous existing porous solids. A further analysis on the specific pore type governed physisorption capacities is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BiFeO3‐BaTiO3 (BF‐BT) solid solutions are lead‐free candidates for high‐temperature piezoelectric applications. BF‐BT ceramics with compositions near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) separating rhombohedral (R) and pseudo‐cubic (PC) phases were fabricated by the conventional high temperature sintering method, and their thermal stability and aging properties were studied in detail. BF‐BT ceramics with rhombohedral (R) phase show much better thermal stability and aging properties than those with pseudo‐cubic (PC) or coexistence of PC and R phases. The thermal degradation and aging rates of BF‐BT ceramics with R phase are on the order of 1% and 1.2% per decade, respectively. X‐ray diffraction results reveal that the domain state of poled rhombohedral BF‐BT ceramics is stable up to its Curie temperature, which is responsible for the high thermal stability. The Rayleigh analysis shows that the low aging rate is attributed to the low domain wall contribution to the overall piezoelectric response. The high thermal stability and low aging rates indicate that the lead‐free BF‐BT ceramics with R phase are potential candidates for sensor and transducer applications over a broad temperature range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the long‐term efficacy and quality of life concerning sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) using conventional instruments for Chinese women with symptomatic stage 2 and 3 apical prolapse. Methods: This single‐arm prospective cohort study was conducted at our hospital between October 2011 and December 2018. Eligible participants were followed up over 3 years after surgery. The primary surgical outcome was composite surgical failure. Secondary outcomes included rate of satisfaction, quality of life (QoL) scores, and long‐term complications. Results: Fifty‐nine patients were enrolled (mean age 57.1 years), of whom 55 (93.22%) completed the 3‐year follow up. At year 3, the composite failure rate was 21.34% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.30%–31.79%), and satisfaction rate was 81.40% (95% CI 66.09%–91.08%). Right thigh pain and de novo dyspareunia occurred in 1.8% and 14.6% patients after year 1, respectively, but at year 3 there were no complications. Lower urinary tract symptoms were present in 5.5% of patients. Improvement was found in urinary symptoms and prolapse symptoms, but sexual function showed no significant change. Conclusions: Compared with results at year 1, complication rates of SSLF decreased at year 3. The composite failure rate was relatively low and satisfaction rate was relatively high at year 3. Prolapse and urinary symptoms improved significantly after surgery. Synopsis: Sacrospinous ligament fixation using conventional instruments is feasible and promising for Asian women in low‐income countries for symptomatic stage 2 and 3 apical prolapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Synthesis of Carbazolequinones by Formal [3 + 2] Cycloaddition of Arynes and 2-Aminoquinones" by Jian Guo and colleagues is presented.

Searching for functional square lattices in layered superconductor systems offers an explicit clue to modify the electron behavior and find exotic properties. The trigonal SnAs3 structural units in SnAs‐based systems are relatively conformable to distortion, which provides the possibility to achieve structurally topological transformation and higher superconducting transition temperatures. In the present work, the functional As square lattice was realized and activated in Li0.6Sn2As2 and NaSnAs through a topotactic structural transformation of trigonal SnAs3 to square SnAs4 under pressure, resulting in a record‐high Tc among all synthesized SnAs‐based compounds. Meanwhile, the conductive channel transfers from the out‐of‐plane pz orbital to the in‐plane px+py orbitals, facilitating electron hopping within the square 2D lattice and boosting the superconductivity. The reorientation of p‐orbital following a directed local structure transformation provides an effective strategy to modify layered superconducting systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searching for functional square lattices in layered superconductor systems offers an explicit clue to modify the electron behavior and find exotic properties. The trigonal SnAs3 structural units in SnAs‐based systems are relatively conformable to distortion, which provides the possibility to achieve structurally topological transformation and higher superconducting transition temperatures. In the present work, the functional As square lattice was realized and activated in Li0.6Sn2As2 and NaSnAs through a topotactic structural transformation of trigonal SnAs3 to square SnAs4 under pressure, resulting in a record‐high Tc among all synthesized SnAs‐based compounds. Meanwhile, the conductive channel transfers from the out‐of‐plane pz orbital to the in‐plane px+py orbitals, facilitating electron hopping within the square 2D lattice and boosting the superconductivity. The reorientation of p‐orbital following a directed local structure transformation provides an effective strategy to modify layered superconducting systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article "Synthesis of 3,5-Disubstituted 1,2,4-Oxadiazoles and Their Behavior of Liquid Crystallines" by Jian Guo, Ruimao Hua and colleagues is presented.

South China (SC) was a region with mixed rice–millet farming during the Middle Neolithic period and was also suggested to be the homeland of Tai‐Kadai (TK)‐speaking people. However, the formations of inland TK‐speaking people and southwestern Hans are far from clear due to very few studies on this subject. Here, we reveal the spatiotemporally demographic history of SC by analyzing newly‐generated genome‐wide SNP data of 115 modern southwestern individuals and find that inland TK‐speaking Dongs and Bouyeis have a close genomic affinity to coastal TK/Austronesian (AN)‐speaking people and Neolithic Yangtze River basin (YZRB) farmers, while southwestern Hans and TK‐speaking Gelaos possess a close genomic affinity to Neolithic Yellow River basin (YRB) farmers. Genetic differentiations are identified among TK people from SC and Southeast Asia, and between northern and southern inland Chinese TK people, in which the identified shared genetic ancestry between TK and AN people highlights a common origin of AN/TK groups. Conclusively, our findings indicate that millet farmers deriving from the YRB and rice farmers deriving from the YZRB substantially contribute to the present‐day inland TK speakers and southwestern Hans via a two‐way admixture scenario of bi‐directional gene‐flow events, which facilitates the formation of a modern two‐way genetic admixture profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population history of Southeast (SE) China remains poorly understood due to the sparse sampling of present‐day populations and limited modeling with ancient genomic data. We report genome‐wide genotyping data from 207 present‐day Han Chinese and Hmong‐Mien (HM)‐speaking She people from Fujian and Taiwan Island, SE China. We coanalyzed 66 Early Neolithic to Iron Age ancient Fujian and Taiwan Island individuals obtained from previously published works to explore the genetic continuity and admixture based on patterns of genetic variations of the high‐resolution time transect. We found the genetic differentiation between northern and southern East Asians was defined by a north–south East Asian genetic cline and our studied southern East Asians were clustered in the southern end of this cline. The southeastern coastal modern East Asians are genetically similar to other southern indigenous groups as well as geographically close to Neolithic‐to‐Iron Age populations, but they also shared excess alleles with post‐Neolithic Yellow River ancients, which suggested a southward gene flow on the modern southern coastal gene pool. In addition, we identified one new HM genetic cline in East Asia with the coastal Fujian HM‐speaking She localizing at the intersection between HM and Han clines. She people show stronger genetic affinity with southern East Asian indigenous populations, with the main ancestry deriving from groups related to southeastern ancient indigenous rice farmers. The southeastern Han Chinese could be modeled with the primary ancestry deriving from the group related to the Yellow River Basin millet farmers and the remaining from groups related to rice farmers, which was consistent with the northern China origin of modern southeastern Han Chinese and in line with the historically and archaeologically attested southward migrations of Han people and their ancestors. Our estimated north–south admixture time ranges based on the decay of the linkage disequilibrium spanned from the Bronze Age to historic periods, suggesting the recent large‐scale population migrations and subsequent admixture participated in the formation of modern Han in SE Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assembly of anisotropic nanoparticles on polymeric templates has attracted much attention recently because of the potential useful applications. In this work, 3D electrospun nanofiber membrane is used as template for the assembly of ex situ synthesized palladium nanocubes. The assembly process is achieved by simple immersion step, in which the electrostatic assembly of the nanocubes occurs. The dense nanocubes on the nanofibers as well as the fibrous nanostructure render the nanocomposite membrane excellent catalytic activity. Moreover, the catalytic membrane can be recycled for at least six times, which makes it possible for practical usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By tandem iminium-enamine activation of enals transformable pyrrole-functionalized cyclobutanes are obtained with high regio-, diastereo- and enantioselectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug repurposing is considered a promising strategy to fight antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Methotrexate (Mtx), a classical anticancer drug, could strongly inhibit bacterial dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). However, its poor permeability into bacteria and potent human cytotoxicity make it unsuitable as an antibacterial. Herein, we reported the conjugation of Mtx with a siderophore to construct "Trojan horse" antibacterials. The most potent conjugate 8 with nanomolar minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values exhibited over 1.00×103‐fold improved activity against Gram‐positive Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) and Gram‐negative Yersinia enterocolitica (Y. enterocolitica) compared with Mtx, while possessing 2.31×103‐fold reduced human cytotoxicity, resulting in 2.08×106‐fold improvements in the therapeutic index. This proof‐of‐principle study verifies that siderophore conjugation is an effective strategy for developing new antibacterials from anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug repurposing is considered a promising strategy to fight antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Methotrexate (Mtx), a classical anticancer drug, could strongly inhibit bacterial dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). However, its poor permeability into bacteria and potent human cytotoxicity make it unsuitable as an antibacterial. Herein, we reported the conjugation of Mtx with a siderophore to construct "Trojan horse" antibacterials. The most potent conjugate 8 with nanomolar minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values exhibited over 1.00×103‐fold improved activity against Gram‐positive Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) and Gram‐negative Yersinia enterocolitica (Y. enterocolitica) compared with Mtx, while possessing 2.31×103‐fold reduced human cytotoxicity, resulting in 2.08×106‐fold improvements in the therapeutic index. This proof‐of‐principle study verifies that siderophore conjugation is an effective strategy for developing new antibacterials from anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sensor can be used in the presence of common metal cations and anions without interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the adaptive finite‐time consensus protocols for a class of second‐order multi‐agent systems with unknown non‐linear dynamics. Mainly due to the presence of more general unknown non‐linearities, the finite‐time consensus of multi‐agent systems is rather difficult to reach. Radial basis function neural networks are used to approximate the unknown functions. Under some appropriate assumptions, distributed consensus protocols and adaptive laws are designed for all agents. It is proved that the position errors and the velocity errors between any two agents converge to a small neighbourhood of the origin in finite time. Finally, an example of finite‐time consensus control for multiple robot systems is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Han Chinese are the world's largest ethnic group residing across China. Shaanxi province in northern China was a pastoral–agricultural interlacing region sensitive to climate change since Neolithic times, which makes it a vital place for studying population dynamics. However, genetic studies of Shaanxi Han are underrepresented due to the lack of high‐density sampling and genome‐wide data. Here, we genotyped 700 000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 200 Han individuals from nine populations in Shaanxi and compared with available modern and ancient Eurasian individuals. We revealed a north–south genetic cline in Han Chinese with Shaanxi Han locating at the northern side of the cline. We detected the western Eurasian‐related admixture in Shaanxi populations, especially in Guanzhong and Shanbei Han Chinese in proportions of 2%–4.6%. Shaanxi Han were suggested to derive a large part of ancestry (39%–69%) from a lineage that also contributed largely to ancient and present‐day Tibetans (85%) as well as southern Han, supporting the common northern China origin of modern Sino‐Tibetan‐speaking populations and southwestward expansion of millet farmers from the middle‐upper Yellow River Basin to the Tibetan Plateau and to southern China. The rest of the ancestry of Shaanxi Han was from a lineage closely related to ancient and present‐day Austronesian and Tai‐Kadai speaking populations in southern China and Southeast Asia. We also observed a genetic substructure in Shaanxi Han in terms of north–south‐related ancestry corresponding well to the latitudes. Maternal mitochondrial DNA and paternal Y‐chromosome lineages further demonstrated the aforementioned admixture pattern of Han Chinese in Shaanxi province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Allele‐specific expression (ASE) can lead to phenotypic diversity and evolution. However, the mechanisms regulating ASE are not well understood, particularly in woody perennial plants. In this study, we investigated ASE genes in the apple cultivar 'Royal Gala' (RG). A high quality chromosome‐level genome was assembled using a homozygous tetra‐haploid RG plant, derived from anther cultures. Using RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) data from RG flower and fruit tissues, we identified 2091 ASE genes. Compared with the haploid genome of 'Golden Delicious' (GD), a parent of RG, we distinguished the genomic sequences between the two alleles of 817 ASE genes, and further identified allele‐specific presence of a transposable element (TE) in the upstream region of 354 ASE genes. These included MYB110a that encodes a transcription factor regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis. Interestingly, another ASE gene, MYB10 also showed an allele‐specific TE insertion and was identified using genome data of other apple cultivars. The presence of the TE insertion in both MYB genes was positively associated with ASE and anthocyanin accumulation in apple petals through analysis of 231 apple accessions, and thus underpins apple flower colour evolution. Our study demonstrated the importance of TEs in regulating ASE on a genome‐wide scale and presents a novel method for rapid identification of ASE genes and their regulatory elements in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the widespread application of biometric identification technology has provided convenient services, the security, and privacy of personal data have also attracted increasing attention. Because biometric traits are unique, once an attack occurs, the information stored in the system will be permanently leaked. Thus, ensuring the security of biometric templates is a major challenge. In order to solve this problem, we propose a finger vein template protection method based on chaotic map. First, we randomize and scramble the finger vein features after feature extraction, disturbing the location distribution of the pixels. Second, on the basis of the chaotic features of the finger veins, binary quantization is applied to further ensure the safety of the template. Finally, the compact and safe finger vein template is directly stored in the database. Finger vein matching is realized in the encryption domain, which changes the way that the traditional finger vein recognition system directly stores biometric templates. We conducted a series of detailed experiments on the public dataset. The experimental results show that our method can ensure the safety of finger vein templates while maintaining stable recognition performance. Moreover, the method has universality for different feature‐extraction methods and meets the requirements of good biometric template protection. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main observation and conclusion: Based on the redox reactions of Togni‐II reagent and thiols, a thiol‐tuned selective functionalization of unactivated olefins was disclosed. In combination with aryl thiols, stoichiometric amount of Togni‐II reagent prompted a hydrotrifluoromethylation of alkenes, in which, aryl thiols played as reductant and hydrogen source; while by utilization of alkyl thiols, catalytic amount of Togni‐II reagent initiated thiol‐ene and thiol‐yne reactions. The reported applications are characterized by their operational simplicity and wide functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the properties of polyamide 6 (PA6) composites, a series of modified PA6 composites was prepared by reaction extrusion. An amorphous PA6 was first obtained by the complexing reaction of Li+ in lithium chloride with amino groups, and then epoxy resins, nano-SiO2 as well as POE- g-MAH were in turn added into the PA6/LiCl system. The effect of different additives on the crystallization behavior and mechanical properties of PA6 composites was well-studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and mechanical properties tests. The results demonstrated that PA6 was amorphous at 6 phr lithium chloride and a network structure was formed in PA6 matrix in the presence of epoxy resins, thus the mechanical properties of composites greatly were enhanced. However too many nano-SiO2 particles might impair the tensile strength of PA6 composites. Additionally, a PA6 composite with excellent properties was obtained in the presence of POE- g-MAH due to the crystal form change in PA6 matrix and the strong interaction between PA6 and POE- g-MAH. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:985-992, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims The role of serum quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen ( qHBsAg) in identifying hepatitis B virus ( HBV) carriers with significant fibrosis is unknown. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of qHBsAg for hepatic fibrosis in hepatitis B e antigen ( HBeAg)-positive HBV carriers. Methods Consecutive biopsy-proven HBeAg-positive HBV carriers were prospectively recruited in our center from 2009 to 2011 and were randomly divided into training and validation set. Area under receiver-operator curve ( AUC) was used to determine the diagnostic accuracy of simple tests for significant fibrosis ( Scheuer stage, F ≥ 2). Results Overall, a total of 197 eligible patients (median age 31 years; 149 males) were enrolled. The median qHBsAg was 4.20 (log10 IU/ mL). Significant fibrosis was confirmed in 112 (56.9%) patients. By logistical regression analysis, qHBsAg and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase were identified as predictors for significant fibrosis in training set ( n = 124). Thus, qHBsAg index and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase to qHBsAg ratio ( GqHBsR) were selected for the subsequent analysis. In the training set, an AUC of 0.762, 0.826, 0.749, and 0.771 was observed for qHBsAg index, GqHBsR, FIB-4, and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index, respectively (all P < 0.05). GqHBsR yielded a higher AUC than aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index and FIB-4 (both P < 0.05). Using the optimal cut-off of 7.78, GqHBsR showed a sensitivity of 78.9% and a specificity of 73.6%. About 80% of liver biopsy could be avoided in the entire cohort. Conclusions Serum qHBsAg-based simple tests, especially GqHBsR, can accurately and specifically identify significant fibrosis in treatment-naïve HBeAg-positive HBV carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The blood–testis barrier (BTB) of Sertoli cells (SCs) is an important biological barrier that maintains spermatogenesis and provides a favourable microenvironment for spermatogenesis. However, heat stress can directly damage the BTB structural proteins of testicular SCs, leading to dyszoospermia. Wuzi Yanzong Pills (WYP) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula used to treat male reproductive diseases. However, whether WYP could ameliorate heat stress injury in primary SCs extracted from rat testes and BTB proteins remains unknown. Here, treatment with WYP (low, medium and high dose) increased the SC viability and the proliferation of cell antigen Ki67 significantly. Additionally, it promoted SC maturation, which presented in the form of increased androgen receptors (ARs) and decreased cytokeratin 18 (CK‐18) in three WYP dose groups. WYP upregulated BTB proteins such as zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1) and occludin across all WYP groups and decreased phosphorylated Akt (p‐Akt) in the middle and high‐dose groups; however, ZO‐1 and occludin recovery were reduced with the presence of Akt inhibitor in WYP groups. WYP improved SC viability and proliferation, and ameliorated dedifferentiation and BTB‐proteins damaged by heat stress via Akt signalling. The findings present theoretical support for the effects of WYP in the management of dyszoospermia and male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydatin (PD), a monocrystalline compound isolated from the root and rhizome of Polygonum cuspidatum, is widely used in inhibiting the inflammatory response and oxidative stress. PD has an anti‐inflammatory effect on colitis mice; however, information regulating the mechanism by which maintains the intestinal epithelium barrier is currently scarce. Here, we assessed the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant of PD in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced macrophages in vitro, and explored its effects on inhibiting intestinal inflammation and maintaining the intestinal epithelium barrier in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)‐induced colitis mice. Results showed that PD reduced the level of proinflammatory cytokines and enzymes, including tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐6, cyclooxygenase‐2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase, in LPS‐induced macrophages, and improved the expression level of IL‐10. PD maintained the expression of tight junction proteins in medium (LPS‐induced macrophages medium)‐induced MCEC cells. Additionally, PD inhibited the phosphorylation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), p65, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐1/2, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, and p38 signaling pathways in LPS‐induced macrophages and facilitated the phosphorylation of AKT and the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, improving the expression of HO‐1 and NQO1. Furthermore, PD ameliorated the intestinal inflammatory response and improved the dysfunction of the colon epithelium barrier in DSS‐induced colitis mice. Taken together, our results indicated that PD inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress, maintained the intestinal epithelium barrier, and the protective role of PD was associated with the NF‐κB p65, itogen‐activated protein kinases, and AKT/Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A printed circular-ring monopole antenna with band-notched feature for ultra-wideband application has been presented and investigated. The band-notched characteristic is achieved by attaching a C-shaped short-circuited stub. Experimental results show that the proposed antenna meets the requirement of wide-working bandwidth of 3.1–10.6 GHz with voltage-standing wave ratio <2, while avoiding the interference with the 5 GHz wireless local area network band. Transfer functions of the antenna systems are given experimentally, and the parametric studies are performed numerically in this article. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:827–830, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.25050 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel double-printed rectangular patch dipole antenna with a band-notched function suitable for UWB application is presented and investigated in this article. The band-notched characteristic is achieved by connecting L-shaped strips to the antenna rather than inserting slot to the antenna. The measured results show that the frequency band of VSWR < 2 covers 3.1 to 10.6 GHz UWB band, whereas the notched-frequency range is 5.05–6.1 GHz which covers 5GHz WLAN band of 5.15–5.825 GHz. Transfer function and time domain characteristics are also studied in this article. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52: 269–272, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24921 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and compact microstrip-fed ultra wideband printed monopole antenna is proposed and investigated. The proposed antenna is composed of a circular-ring fed by a microstrip line and a multistep ground. The measured bandwidth of voltage-standing wave ratio < 2 is from 3.0 to 12.0 GHz. The transfer functions of antenna systems are given experimentally. The parametric studies are performed numerically in this article. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52: 179–182, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24857 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]