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Faradaic capacitive deionization (FCDI) with attractive ion‐capture capacity, outstanding durability, and potential compatibility in high‐salinity water has been recognized as the robust alternative to address the alarming freshwater scarcity. The further innovation of boosting electrode materials is the indispensable requisite for highly efficient FCDI application. Herein, a low‐crystalline nitrogen‐doped carbon quantum dots modified Mg2+‐pillar preintercalated V3O7 (i.e., NCQDs/Mg‐V3O7) heterostructure is assembled via an ingenious one‐spot hydrothermal avenue, and is investigated as the advanced FCDI electrode for desalination application. Taking advantages of the synergic effect of unique microstructure, improved electronic conductivity, and exceptional structural durability, the NCQDs/Mg‐V3O7 electrode delivers an admirable gravimetric adsorption capacity of 54.32 mg g−1 in a NaCl solution of 1500 mg L−1 and attractive cyclic durability. Further, density functional theory calculations verify the intense interface electron coupling interaction between tri‐components, enabling the significantly promoting Na+ capture capability. The synergy removal mechanism is clarified by ex‐situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in‐situ Raman tests. Additionally, the average removal efficiency of hybrid electrode attains 93.75% in the simulated wastewater comprising the NaCl of 50 mg L−1 and diverse metal nitrates from 10 to 100 mg L−1 for each, certifying the great prospects for practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming to promote the control performance of traditional fixed-parameter model predictive control (MPC), a new longitudinal and lateral coupling path tracking control method for the autonomous vehicle is proposed. First, a dynamic model of the autonomous vehicle, which can describe the longitudinal and lateral motion states, is established. Secondly, both the tire side-slip angle and centroid side-slip angle constraints are introduced in the path tracking controller design, which improves the accuracy of the prediction model at high speed. Furthermore, the key parameters of the proposed path tracking controller are optimized. The simulation and experimental results show that compared with the traditional MPC tracking control method, the lateral error and directional error of the proposed optimized path tracking control method under high speed decrease by 19.17 % and 11.89 %, respectively, which improves the path tracking performance significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass fibre-reinforced polyphenylene sulphide composites were prepared by hot-pressing glass fibre fabrics and polyphenylene sulphide resins. The effects of different polyphenylene sulphide resin forms on the properties of the composites were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, dynamic mechanical analyser, pendulum impact tester and universal testing machine. The results showed that different polyphenylene sulphide resin forms had nearly no effect on the glass transition temperature of the composites, which are all located at about 100 °C. Compared with other polyphenylene sulphide composites, the bending strength of polyphenylene sulphide film composites was the highest, reaching 314.58 MPa, and the impact strength of polyphenylene sulphide particle composites was the highest, reaching 245.4 KJ/m2. The bending strength and impact strength were calculated using a standard fraction, and the highest standard fraction was obtained when the ratio of polyphenylene sulphide film to particle was 1:2. The impact strength and bending strength could be obtained. The impact strength reached 229.8 KJ/m2, and the bending strength reached 284.16 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The post-quantum security of electronic voting protocols such as lattice-based ones are based on the assumption of certain difficult computational problems, which cannot be solved by classical computers and have also not been solved by effective quantum algorithms until now. However, these voting protocols are still at risk of compromise with the development of quantum computing, and we call them passive defense voting protocols. By making use of the encrypted three-pass protocol configured by taking physical limits of quantum computing into account and the message authentication code with information theory security, we propose a new post-quantum voting (NPQV) protocol. The proposed protocol exhibits the following advantages: (1) The post-quantum security of NPQV protocol depends on the physical limits that are inherent to quantum computers, so NPQV remains secure with the development of quantum computing and thus we call it active defense voting protocol. NPQV is the first voting protocol with active defense capability. (2) NPQV protocol is suitable for voting with numerous candidates and voters and accommodates the situation in which multiple voters vote simultaneously. (3) NPQV satisfies all the seven security requirements for an electronic voting protocol, i.e. privacy, verifiability, completeness, robustness, eligibility, unreusability and fairness. Moreover, it remains secure under internal and external attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CFRP sandwich plates are prepared by thermal expansion molding process. • The mechanical properties and failure mechanism of CFRP sandwish plates interfaces were analyzed. • The bending properties and failure modes of sandwich plates with different expansion rates were analyzed. • The optimum expansion rate of CFRP sandwich plate prepared is determined to be 4 times. Based on its ability to integrate foam expansion into rapid prototyping products, the Thermal Expansion Molding Process (TEMP) of foam sandwich composites has shown great application prospects. The influence of the Expansion Rate (ER) on the interfacial mechanical features and failure mechanism of foam sandwich composites has always been a crucial concern in product development during thermal expansion foam forming. Herein, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) foam sandwich panels were fabricated via TEMP, using expansion ratios of 2x, 4x, 6x, and 8x. The relationship between the expansion ratio and mechanical performance of two key interfaces was investigated: The CFRP/foam interface (Interface I) and the fiber/foam interface within the foam (Interface II). The average peel strength of Interface I gradually decreased with increasing expansion ratio: 21.48 N·mm/mm (2×), 19.41 N·mm/mm (4×), 18.92 N·mm/mm (6×), and 17.30 N·mm/mm (8×). Furthermore, the Double cantilever beam-uneven bending moment (DCB-UBM) test revealed that the initial strain energy release rate of Interface II gradually decreased with increasing ER. Finally, a three-point bending test was performed to explore the failure mode of four kinds of ER foam sandwich panels. The findings revealed that the 4x ER was the most suitable for making foam sandwich composites via TEMP. This paper offers a vital reference for developing foam sandwich composite products using TEMP technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A versatile method for the in-situ growth of ZIF-67 from hydrocarbonate as a template for three-dimensional hierarchical nano-arrays. • The introduction of Fe3+ and 2-MIM optimizes the electronic structure of Ni/Co site. • The MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF demonstrates excellent catalytic activity toward OER/UOR. • The MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF exhibits highly efficient catalytic performance for (+)MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF || Pt/C/NF(−) system. The design of efficient electrocatalysts for OER and UOR is essential for achieving sustainable hydrogen production and enabling simultaneous wastewater treatment. Here, a versatile fabrication method for the in-situ growth of ZIF-67 from hydrocarbonate as a template for three-dimensional hierarchical nano-arrays. This strategy provides an opportunity for controllably tuning the interfacial assembly of MOFs materials on precursor template nanomaterials. The obtained MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic performance as an electrocatalytic anode for the OER and UOR. The MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF required only 194 mV and 285 mV overpotentials to achieve the current densities of 10 and 100 mA·cm−2 in the electrolyte of 1.0 M KOH, and the overpotentials in the 1.0 M KOH + 0.5 M Urea electrolyte requires only 1.31 V (vs.RHE) to achieve a current density of 10 mA·cm−2. Notably, (+)MIM@Fe 0.1 -CoNi CH/NF || Pt/C/NF(−) achieves 10 mA·cm−2 in urea-assisted electrolysis at only 1.36 V (vs.RHE). The excellent catalytic performance was attributed to the modification of the CoNi CH/NF template by Fe3+ and 2-MIM, which modulated the Ni2+ and Co2+ electronic structures and optimised the adsorption behaviour of the OER/UOR intermediates. Overall, this work provides a strategy for preparing desirable catalysts for clean energy and wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An individualized application of water management was proposed. • Pinus koraiensis with strong plasticity showed different water use patterns in different habitats. • Sand content was the key factor for Pinus koraiensis water use pattern in Changbai Montain. Plant water uptake plays a crucial role in regulating the water balance for the stability of ecosystems. Previous studies on plant water uptake, focused on arid and semi-arid regions due to water scarcity in these areas, leaving gaps in understanding the strategies and factors affecting plant water uptake in temperate semi-humid regions, where there is a high sensitivity to climate change To assess water uptake patterns through stable isotopes (δD and δ18O), we chose Pinus koraiensis , a dominant species in the broadleaf Korean pine forest, poplar–birch forest and spruce–fir forest of the Changbai Mountain. Our findings indicated that soil water served as the direct water source for Pinus koraiensis , while precipitation, river water, and groundwater indirectly contributed via replenishing soil moisture and subsequently supporting plant water uptake. Within the broadleaf Korean pine forest and poplar–birch forest, Pinus koraiensis primarily extracted soil water from depths of 0–10 cm, accounting for approximately 49.6 % and 54.5 % of its total water uptake, respectively. In contrast, within the spruce–fir forest, Pinus koraiensis primarily extracted soil water from depths 40–50 cm, representing approximately 31.9 % of its total water uptake. In addition, through the partial correlations and variation partitioning analyses, the results revealed that sand content was the driver of the plant water uptake pattern, which affected the fine root distribution by determining the field capacity and bulk density to drive the plant water uptake. Future forest conservation management endeavours will primarily concentrate on protecting soil integrity, reducing soil erosion, maintaining regional water balance, and preserving plant diversity in the Changbai Mountain region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulins are affected by sex, age and region, so it is necessary to establish suitable reference intervals (RIs) for clinical diagnosis. Various statistical methods were used to calculate RIs, but there has been a lack of comparison among the methods. Research based on immunoglobulin RIs establishment with various methods would provide a methodological basis for further research. A total of 16,525 individuals were enrolled in the study. Individuals were selected in the medical examination center of First Hospital of Jilin University from 2014 to 2020. The lambda-mu-sigma (LMS) method was performed to evaluate the dynamic changes in analytes. RIs were calculated by parametric, non-parametric, Hoffman method and Bhattacharya method. Sex and age partitions were found for immunoglobulins G and immunoglobulin M. The levels of IgM showed no difference with age in males, but showed differences after 50 years of age in females. Circulating immunoglobulin A concentrations showed an increasing trend with age, and immunoglobulin M showed a fluctuating trend with age. Obvious difference (>5%) was commonly found among the four methods, however, the RIs established by the four methods all passed the verification with a high passing rate. Sex and age differences should be considered for immunoglobulins G and immunoglobulin M in clinical practice. The feasibility of the four indirect methods was proven, which would provides a methodological reference for further studies and benefit the application of clinical data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load balancing is of great significance to extend the longevity of wireless sensor networks, due to the inherent imbalanced energy overhead in such networks. However, existing solutions cannot balance the load distribution in partially disconnected wireless sensor networks. For example, if a network is partitioned into several segments with different area sizes, some areas have much more traffic load than other areas. In this article, we propose a load-balanced routing scheme, which aims to balance energy consumption within each segment and among different segments. First, we adopt unequal transmission distances to build initial routing for intrasegment load balancing. Second, we adopt the genetic algorithm to build extra routing between different segments for intersegment load balancing. The unique character of our work is twofold. On one hand, we investigate partitioned wireless sensor networks where there are several isolated segments. On the other hand, we pursue load balancing from a global perspective rather than from a local one. Some simulations verify the effectiveness and the advantages of our scheme in terms of extra deployment cost, system longevity, and load balancing degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Ag-Sc alloy was fabricated by laser direct energy deposition. • The fully equiaxed grain structure of as-built alloy can be obtained by adding 0.3 wt% Sc. • The precipitation behavior of primary Al 3 Sc particles was studied based on transient nucleation theory. • T 1 , Al 3 Sc, T B , and quasicrystalline T 2 phases serve as primary strengthening phases. In this study, a novel Al-Li alloy with minor Sc addition was fabricated by laser directed energy deposition (LDED), resulting in a fully equiaxed grain structure. The precipitation behavior of primary Al 3 Sc particles was studied based on transient nucleation theory, and the results showed that sufficient heterogeneous nuclei by primary Al 3 Sc particles could preferentially form at initial solidification stage and induce into equiaxed grains. Besides, a large number of acicular T 1 (Al 2 CuLi) phases and spherical Al 3 Sc phases, as well as rod-shaped T B (Al 7 Cu 4 Li) phases and quasicrystalline T 2 (Al 6 CuLi 3) phases, were distributed in as-built alloy that served as primary strengthening phases by thermal cycling. However, the specific nucleation behavior of α-Al grains on primary Al 3 Sc particles and subsequent growth behavior during rapid solidification need to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new structure of omnidirectional levelling system is proposed. • The sensitivity analysis of the structural parameters for levelling system is carried out. • The structural parameter optimization based on NSGA-Ⅱ algorithm is completed. • A new QBP-PID levelling control algorithm is presented. To address the challenges posed by significant body inclination, suboptimal work quality, and safety concerns during agricultural machinery operations in hilly terrains, this study presents the design of an omnidirectional levelling system tailored for hilly crawler work machines. Initially, a structural configuration for an articulated omnidirectional levelling system employing a "three-layer frame" is proposed. Subsequently, the hydraulic circuit for levelling and its operational principles are elucidated. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis is performed on the crucial structural parameters affecting omnidirectional levelling performance. To optimize these parameters, a multi-objective genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) is devised. Next, a novel composite control algorithm, denoted as QBP-PID (combining Q-learning, a BP neural network, and PID control), is proposed to enhance the adaptability of the PID controller. Real-time updates of PID control parameters are achieved through the BP neural network, with the incorporation of a Q-learning algorithm for online adjustment of neural network connection weights. The simulation results indicate that under QBP-PID control, the levelling time is reduced to 2.8 s for 20° lateral levelling and 3.2 s for 25° longitudinal levelling, with no observable overshoot compared to that of the PID and BP-PID controls. Finally, an omnidirectional levelling performance test is conducted, where the static test results align with the simulation findings. In dynamic test, the maximum body inclination angle of the crawler work machine is notably reduced, enabling swift levelling. The body inclination angle can be maintained within ± 1.5° on flat ground and after levelling, meeting the performance criteria for hilly areas and affirming the efficacy of the omnidirectional levelling system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To develop and evaluate machine learning models using baseline and restaging computed tomography (CT) for predicting and early detecting pathological downstaging (pDS) with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer (AGC). Methods: We collected 292 AGC patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. They were classified into (a) primary cohort (206 patients with 3–4 cycles chemotherapy) for model development and internal validation, (b) testing cohort I (46 patients with 3–4 cycles chemotherapy) for evaluating models' predictive ability before and after the complete course, and (c) testing cohort II (n = 40) for model evaluation on its performance at early treatment. We extracted 1,231 radiomics features from venous phase CT at baseline and restaging. We selected radiomics models based on 28 cross-combination models and measured the areas under the curve (AUC). Our prediction radiomics (PR) model is designed to predict pDS outcomes using baseline CT. Detection radiomics (DR) model is applied to restaging CT for early pDS detection. Results: PR model achieved promising outcomes in two testing cohorts (AUC 0.750, p =.009 and AUC 0.889, p =.000). DR model also showed a good predictive ability (AUC 0.922, p =.000 and AUC 0.850, p =.000), outperforming the commonly used RECIST method (NRI 39.5% and NRI 35.4%). Furthermore, the improved DR model with averaging outcome scores of PR and DR models showed boosted results in two testing cohorts (AUC 0.961, p =.000 and AUC 0.921, p =.000). Conclusions: CT-based radiomics models perform well on prediction and early detection tasks of pDS and can potentially assist surgical decision-making in AGC patients. Key Points: • Baseline contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT)-based radiomics features were predictive of pathological downstaging, allowing accurate identification of non-responders before therapy. • Restaging CECT-based radiomics features were predictive to achieve pDS after and even at an early stage of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. • Combination of baseline and restaging CECT-based radiomics features was promising for early detection and preoperative evaluation of pathological downstaging of AGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyze the average transmit power of non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) systems with requirements on the user signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratios (SINRs), and propose new transmission schemes and user clustering algorithms to reduce the average transmit power. First, for systems with a multi-antenna base station (BS) and a single cluster of two single-antenna users, the average transmit power with SINR constraints is analyzed for channel-alignment-based NOMA and multi-user beamforming with matched filter (MF) beamformers. Properties of the average transmit power are obtained with respect to the alignment threshold and the BS antenna number. It is shown that using either scheme alone without the alignment consideration leads to unbounded average transmit power. With the observation that the two schemes have distinct preferred regions of channel alignment, hybrid transmissions of NOMA and multi-user beamforming are proposed for power saving and outage avoidance. Further, for systems with more than two users, clustering algorithms are developed to group users into multiple two-user clusters with respect to the minimization of the total transmit power for NOMA and hybrid schemes. Simulation results are provided to validate our theoretical results. In addition, the proposed transmission schemes and clustering algorithms are shown to achieve significant saving in the average transmit power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Ruptured vertebral dissecting aneurysms (VDAs) with posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) involved require an optimal method to isolate the dissection and prevent the symptomatic infraction. This study aims to present our experience with both parent artery occlusion (PAO) and stent-assisted coiling (SAC), and provide a favorable strategy to the management of ruptured VDAs with PICA involved. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage in our database from March 2013 to December 2018, suffering from dissecting aneurysms of the intradural vertebral arteries and endovascularly treated. A total of 16 cases with PICA involved were included. Basic information, aneurysm characteristics, procedure related complications and outcomes of patients were analyzed. Results: 10 (62.5%) aneurysms were managed with PAO containing 3 proximal occlusion and 8 targeted-trapping preserved the PICA. 5 (31.3%) aneurysms were treated with SAC and one 6.3%) treated with vertebral artery to PICA stenting and trapping. Two (12.5%) patients died in the acute phase. Good clinical outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 0 to 3) were observed in 13(81.5%) cases in 30 days follow-up. PICA territory infraction was happened in one patient without any dysfunction. Favorable occlusion was observed in 9 of 12 (75%) which were free of further treatment. Conclusions: For patients with good contralateral circulation, PAO could be a first line management for ruptured VDAs with PICA involved. Targeted-trapping with either reserved PICA or proximal occlusion with moderate coiling in aneurysm are promising modalities to prevent severe PICA infraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common form of spinal deformity in children and adolescents which presents as complex three-dimensional (3D) deformity of the spine and rib cage. This study aimed to estimate the effectiveness and safety of surgical interventions for AIS using Bayesian meta-analysis.Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials were searched through Oct 1, 2019, without language restrictions. Relevant studies evaluating combined effectiveness and safety of surgical interventions for AIS were included according to eligibility criteria. The primary outcome measures included pulmonary function (change of absolute forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 second from pre-operation to post-operation) and incidence of complications. The secondary outcome measure was change of Cobb angle from pre-operation to post-operation. Data was pooled using a random effects model in pairwise meta-analysis. Bayesian meta-analysis combined direct and indirect evidence using a Bayesian framework.Results: Twenty-eight case-controlled studies with totally 1970 participants were included. This Bayesian meta-analysis combining direct and indirect evidences indicated that posterior fusion with instrumentation without thoracoplasty (PSF) had the highest probability to achieve better pulmonary function and lower complication rate; video assisted anterior fusion with instrumentation without thoracoplasty (VAT) had the highest probability to obtain better Cobb angle correction based on analysis of rank probability.Conclusion: This Bayesian meta-analysis demonstrated that PSF had the highest probability to achieve better post-surgical pulmonary function and lower complication rate, which gives a practical recommendation of PSF as a primary surgical treatment for AIS. The results also support statistics that current surgeries adopted more PSF but less open anterior approach surgery and thoracoplasty. More research work is required to address the effectiveness and safety of VAT for treating AIS more convincingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For practical testing and detection of electromigration (EM) induced failures in dual damascene copper interconnects, one critical issue is creating stressing conditions to induce the chip to fail exclusively under EM in a very short period of time so that EM sign-off and validation can be carried out efficiently. Existing acceleration techniques, which rely on increasing temperature and current densities beyond the known limits, also accelerate other reliability effects making it very difficult, if not impossible, to test EM in isolation. In this paper, we propose novel EM wear-out acceleration techniques to address the aforementioned issue. First, we show that multisegment interconnects with reservoir and sink structures can be exploited to significantly speedup the EM wear-out process. Based on this observation, we propose three strategies to accelerate EM induced failure: 1) reservoir-enhanced acceleration; 2) sink-enhanced acceleration; and 3) a hybrid method that combines both reservoir and sink structures. We then propose several configurable interconnect structures that exploit atomic reservoirs and sinks for accelerated EM testing. Such configurable interconnect structures are very flexible and can be used to achieve significant lifetime reductions at the cost of some routing resources. Using the proposed technique, EM testing can be carried out at nominal current densities, and at a much lower temperature compared to traditional testing methods. This is the most significant contribution of this paper since, to our knowledge, this is the only method that allows EM testing to be performed in a controlled environment without the risk of invoking other reliability effects that are also accelerated by elevated temperature and current density. The simulation results show that using the proposed method, we can reduce the EM lifetime of a chip from ten years down to a few hours (about ${10^{5}} \times $ acceleration) under the 150 °C temperature limit, which is sufficient for practical EM testing of typical nanometer CMOS ICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ga1 • ZIF-8-90 showed significantly improved selectivity (up to 99%) compared to ZIF-8. • ZIF-8-90 exhibited better catalytic ability with lower cost than ZIF-90. • A higher TOF of ZIF-8-90 was obtained than those of most of other ZIFs. • ZIF-8-90 displayed enhanced framework stability with good cycling. An efficient dual-ligand zeolitic imidazolate framework ZIF-8-90 was fabricated for the synthesis of five-membered cyclic carbonate from CO 2 and epichlorohydrin (ECH) in the absence of co-catalysts and solvents. The effects of various reaction parameters were studied. The dual-ligand ZIF-8-90 showed very high selectivity (up to 99%). ZIF-8-90 exhibited better catalytic ability with lower cost than ZIF-90 and enhanced framework stability with significantly improved selectivity compared to ZIF-8. Moreover, the catalyst has been successfully reused for three cycles with negligible decrease in the catalytic activity. A plausible mechanism for the ZIF-8-90 catalyzed ECH−CO 2 cycloaddition under solvent-free and co-catalyst-free has been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroinflammation is considered to be a critical component in the pathological process after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Microglia are the foremost and earliest inflammatory cells participating in the pathological process of ICH. AdipoRon is the agonist of AdipoR1 (Adiponectin receptor 1), which enhances P-AMPK (phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase) activation. The activated AMPK facilitates microglia/macrophage polarization by driving the cell state from pro-inflammatory M1 state to anti-inflammatory M2 state. The study aims to investigate the role of AdipoRon in microglial polarization and neuroprotection after ICH. The experimental ICH model was established by autologous blood injection, and the treated group was done additionally by intraperitoneal injection of drugs. Flow cytometry analysis and immunofluorescence staining were performed to quantify the ratio of M1 to M2 phenotype microglia in mice. The present study indicated that AdipoRon could ameliorate neurological deficits in mice after ICH. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that the proportion of CD206+ cells to CD45+low CD11b+ cells (microglia isolated from the brain tissue of mice) was increased after AdipoRon treatment. AdipoR1 siRNA and AMPK inhibitor could reverse the positive effects of AdipoRon. AdipoR1 and P-AMPK expression was also significantly increased after AdipoRon treatment. The in vitro experiment showed that AdipoRon not only directly inhibited neuronal ROS overproduction, but also indirectly decreased the neuronal death in a transwell co-culture system. In summary, AdipoRon protects against ICH induced injury through promoting M2a microglia polarization and reducing neuronal death. These effects of AdipoRon rely on the activation of AdipoR1-AMPK signaling pathway. • AdipoRon protects against ICH induced brain injury in mice. • AdipoRon promotes M2 microglial polarization whereas inhibits M1 microglial polarization through AdipoR1-AMPK pathway. • AdipoRon ameliorates ICH induced neuronal damage in vitro via both direct and indirect route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tissue development and regeneration, but few safe and efficient pro-angiogenic factors are available for long-term clinical therapy. Although stem cell-derived exosomes exhibit excellent biocompatibility and considerable pro-angiogenic capacity, their low yield extremely limits their clinical potential. Exosome-mimetics (EMs) employ similar features to exosomes and can be produced in a higher yield. In this study, the HY-EMs were produced to enhance in vitro and in vivo pro-angiogenic ability from hypoxia-preconditioned bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) using a serial extrusion method. The yield of EMs was over 10 times greater than that of exosomes. Furthermore, compared with the EMs group, the tube number of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro doubled in the HY-EMs treated group, and the number of blood vessels increased by 186% in subcutaneously implanted scaffold with HY-EMs. More importantly, the HY-EMs effectively promoted vascularized osteogenesis in a critical-sized cranial defect model, with the new bone volume and vessel number in regenerated bone increased to 120% and 175%, respectively. Consequently, our current work provides a promising strategy to customize and mass-produce functional EMs for vascularized osteogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being orthogonal to reverse-phase separation and valuable for posttranslational modification (PTM) pre-enrichment, hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) has not been widely adopted for large-scale proteomic applications. Here, we first evaluated the performance of HILIC in comparison with the popular high-pH reverse-phase (HPRP) separation, as the first dimension for tryptic peptide fractionation in a shotgun workflow to characterize the complex 293T cell proteome. The data indicated that the complementary nature of HILIC and HPRP for peptide separation was mainly due to different hydrophobicity preferences. Realizing that uncaptured components from one mode can be resolved in the other mode, we then designed and compared two multidimensional separation schemes using HILIC and HPRP in tandem for peptide prefractionation, in terms of identification efficiency and coverage at peptide, protein, and PTM levels. A total of 22,604 and 23,566 peptides corresponding to 4481 and 4436 proteins from 293T cell lysate were detected using HILIC-HPRP- and HPRP-HILIC-based shotgun proteomics workflow, respectively. In addition, without assistance of enrichment techniques, the tandem fractionation methods aided to identify 46 different PTMs from over 10,000 of spectra using blind modification search algorithm. We concluded that HILIC is a valuable alternative option for peptide prefractionation in a large-scale proteomic study, but can be further augmented with the use of a secondary HPRP separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • An intense red UC emission of Ho3+ ions was obtained in single NaYF 4 microrod. • The UC emission of Ho3+ ions can be precisely turned via changing Ce3+ ion doped concentrations. • The UC mechanism and conversion efficiency were discussed. • The single NaYF 4 microrod will have great potential applications in the laser. Abstract In this work, a series of hexagonal phase NaYF 4 : Yb3+/Ho3+ microrods have been successfully synthesized through hydrothermal methods, and their optical properties studied by a confocal microscope equipment with a 980 nm laser. An intense green and red upconversion emissions with candy-like emission pattern are observed from a single NaYF 4 : Yb3+/Ho3+ microrod. As the codoping Ce3+ ion concentrations increases from 0% to 12% in the microrods, the interesting phenomenon that fluorescence emission of Ho3+ ion is tuned green to red emission has been obtained. The red-to-green ratio emission of Ho3+ ions is enhanced about 11-fold, which is due to the two efficient cross-relaxation processes between Ho3+ and Ce3+ ions, which leading to the populations increase of the 5F 5 state. The possible upconversion emission mechanisms are discussed based on the emission spectra of Ho3+ ions. The current study suggests that the NaYF 4 : Yb3+/Ho3+ microrods with the strong red upconversion emission may have great potential applications in micro-fiber laser, multicolor display, micro-optoelectronic device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a novel and fast electromigration (EM) immortality check for general multisegment interconnect wires. Instead of using current density as the key parameter, as in traditional EM analysis methods based on Black’s equation and the Blech limit, the new method estimates the EM-induced steady-state stress in general multisegment copper interconnect wires based on a novel parameter,Critical EM Voltage, ${V_{\mathrm { Crit,EM}}}$. We show that the ${V}_{\mathrm { Crit,EM}}$ is essentially the natural, but important, extension of theBlech limitconcept, which describes the EM immortality condition for a single segment wire, to more general multisegment interconnect wires. The proposed method, called voltage-based EM (VBEM) method, mitigates the problem of current-density-based EM criteria, which can only be applied to a single wire. The new VBEM method can naturally comprehend the impact of the topology of the wire structure on EM-induced stress. As a result, this new VBEM analysis method is very amenable to addressing EM violations, as it brings new optimization capabilities to the physical design flow. The VBEM stress estimation method is based on the fundamental steady-state stress equations. This approach avoids computationally intensive numerical methods and can be implemented in CAD tools very easily, as we demonstrate on real design examples. We also show that the proposed VBEM analysis method agrees with results from the finite difference method in the steady state through one example and also agrees with one published closed-form expression of steady-state stress for a special 3-terminal wire case. Furthermore, we compare VBEM against the COMSOL finite element analysis tool and another published EM numerical simulator XSim, validated by measured results, which shows that VBEM agrees with both of them very well in terms of accuracy and thus further validates the proposed method. We also study the impact of current crowding in practical interconnect wires on the estimated steady-state stress, which are shown to be not significant if the length of the wire is much greater than its width. An extension of the VBEM method to consider the significant current crowding effects is also shown and additionally, we analyze mesh-structured interconnect wires and demonstrate that the proposed VBEM method is correct and accurate on such structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: HBV‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (HBV‐ACLF) deteriorates rapidly in the short term, which necessitates accurate initial clinical decision making. Aims: To develop a novel prognostic score for patients with HBV‐ACLF and clarify the role of thyroid hormones in HBV‐ACLF. Methods: A retrospective cohort of 635 HBV‐ACLF patients was enrolled to develop and validate a novel prognostic score for HBV‐ACLF. Additionally, a cross‐sectional cohort (n = 199) and a prospective longitudinal HBV‐ACLF cohort (n = 56) were recruited to clarify the association between thyroid hormone status and the 30‐day mortality of HBV‐ACLF. Results: HINT, a novel prognostic score based on hepatic encephalopathy, INR, neutrophil count, and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) using the deriving cohort (n = 426), was significantly higher in non‐survivors than survivors (1.17 ± 2.38 vs −1.87 ± 1.26, P < 0.0001). The AUROC of HINT for 30‐day mortality was 0.889, which was significantly higher than that of the Child‐Pugh, MELD, CLIF‐SOFA, CLIF‐C ACLF, and COSSH‐ACLF scores (all P < 0.05). These results were confirmed in the validation cohort (n = 209), except that the AUROC of HINT was comparable to that of COSSH‐ACLF (P = 0.357). Among thyroid hormones, only the TSH level on admission was significantly lower in non‐survivors than in survivors (P = 0.01). During the 14‐day longitudinal observation, TSH levels increased significantly in the improvement group (P < 0.001) but did not change in the deterioration or fluctuation groups, and gradually increased in survivors (P < 0.001) but not in non‐survivors. Conclusions: HINT, as a prognostic score for HBV‐ACLF, is simpler than and superior to the Child‐Pugh, MELD, CLIF‐SOFA, and CLIF‐C ACLF scores and at least comparable with the COSSH‐ACLF score. Sequential TSH measurements may facilitate prediction of the clinical course of ACLF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for aluminum alloys, developing novel lightweight Al–Li alloy systems present enormous potential for aerospace applications. Conventional Al–Mg–Li alloys exhibit low densities but suffer from poor strength due to the lack of inherent strengthening phases. In the present work, a novel lightweight Al–Mg–Li–Ag-Sc-Zr alloy was developed for LPBF after optimizing the processing parameters. The as-built alloy featured a bimodal microstructure consisting of fine equiaxed grains and columnar grains. The submicron primary Al 3 (Sc, Zr) phases with a cubic L 1 2 structure served as inoculants for grain refinement and exhibited good coherency with the α-Al matrix. Besides, submicron spherical quasicrystalline T-Mg 32 (Al, Ag) 49 phases of and nanometer rod-shaped S 1 –Al 2 MgLi phases were scattered inside the grains. These results produced a yield strength (σ y) of 286 ± 8 MPa, ultimate tensile strength (σ UTS) of 406 ± 3 MPa, and elongation at fracture (ε f) of 12.5 ± 0.3%. The direct aging at 325 °C for 12 h led to an increase in hardness to a peak value of 170 HV. The secondary phases at the grain boundaries were breached and a large amount of submicron T and S 1 phases within the grains were prominently increased. Besides, spherical Al 3 (Sc, Zr, Li) and tiny δ′-Al 3 Li precipitates were observed in the α-Al matrix. A considerably enhanced σ y of 375 ± 12 MPa and σ UTS of 469 ± 4 MPa were achieved mainly due to the particle strengthening but decreased ε f to 5.8 ± 0.2%. The alloys in both states exhibited a moderate work-hardening capability. The feasibility of LPBF for lightweight Al–Li alloy was successfully established but required further optimization of the alloy composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The node deployment in mobile sensor networks (MSNs) is mostly performed in a random method. However, a large number of redundant nodes may exist due to the randomness. As a result, severe data congestion may be caused and the quality of coverage (QoC) is undermined. In order to solve this QoC problem, we propose an Energy-efficient Nonlinear Coverage Control Protocol (ENCP). This protocol utilizes the normal distribution to calculate the minimal number of sensors which is required to guarantee coverage over the monitoring area. We also balance the node energy consumption and achieve the collaborative scheduling among all the sensor nodes. Meanwhile, when a certain QoC is guaranteed, we present the calculation model for the normal distribution of the sensing ranges and the proportional relationship between different parameters in the QoC function. Finally, simulation results show that the ENCP could not only improve the network QoC and network coverage rate but also effectively control the energy exhaustion at the nodes. Therefore, the network lifetime can be effectively prolonged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coverage is a significant performance indicator of wireless sensor networks. Data redundancy in k-coverage raises a set of issues including network congestion, coverage reduction, energy inefficiency, among others. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel algorithm called complex alliance strategy with multi-objective optimization of coverage (CASMOC) which could improve node coverage effectively. This paper also gives the proportional relationship of the energy conversion function between the working node and its neighbors, and applies this relationship in scheduling low energy mobile nodes, thus achieving energy balance of the whole network, and optimizing network resources. The extensive simulation results demonstrate that CASMOC could not only improve the quality of network coverage, but also mitigate rapid node energy consumption effectively, thereby extending the life cycle of the network significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Honeycomb-like porous Pt/SnO 2 nanosheets were prepared via a facile two-step method. • The Pt/SnO 2 exhibited better sensing properties to TEA compared with pristine SnO 2. • The response value of 1%-Pt/SnO 2 based sensor was 3700 to 100 ppm TEA at 200 °C. • The enhanced TEA sensitivity mechanism of Pt/SnO 2 was discussed detailed. In this paper, honeycomb-like porous Pt-modified SnO 2 nanocomposites were synthesized via a two-step method. The three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical porous structure was assembled from numerous SnO 2 nanosheets with an average thickness of 16 nm. The gas sensing performance of the sensors based on pristine SnO 2 and Pt/SnO 2 nanocomposites was systematically investigated. The results indicated that decorating of Pt nanoparticles could significantly improve the sensitivity of SnO 2 sensors to triethylamine (TEA), but could also reduce the optimal working temperature from 250 °C to 200 °C. In particular, the Pt/SnO 2 based sensor with a Pt content of 1 at% exhibited the maximum response value, shortest response time, and excellent stability, implying its great application prospect for TEA detection. The significant improvement of TEA sensing performance of Pt-modified SnO 2 sensors were attributed to the unique hierarchical porous structure and sensitizing actions of Pt nanoparticles. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solar thermoelectric generator (STEG) is regarded as a promising energy conversion technology to convert solar heat into electricity. Considering the real solar irradiance, impedance matching, and interface contacts, a comprehensive three-dimensional transient thermal-electric numerical model for the STEG is established to evaluate its dynamic response and energy recovery potential. The transient performance prediction of the STEG during the whole daytime is completed for the first time. Due to the temperature limitation of thermoelectric materials, the allowable concentration ratio for the Bi 2 Te 3 -based STEG is 150 suns, corresponding to the average daytime output power of 13.16 W and the average daytime conversion efficiency of 6.15%. Dynamic responses of output voltage and conversion efficiency present the same changing trend as solar irradiance. However, the steady-state numerical model underestimates the output power by 6.91% and overestimates the conversion efficiency by 1.85%, due to the ignorance of thermal inertia during thermal diffusion. The established transient model can predict more reasonable results and is well verified via transient experiments. It is obtained that the STEG can produce 491.4 kJ of electricity a day and 49.79 kW h a year, and the theoretical cost-recovery cycle for the cost of the thermoelectric generator module is 1.61 years. • A three-dimensional transient thermal-electric model of the STEG is established. • The transient performance prediction of the STEG during the whole daytime is completed. • The steady-state model underestimates output power and overestimates efficiency. • The STEG can produce 491.4 kJ of electricity a day and 49.79 kW h a year. • Analysis for the energy recovery potential of the STEG is performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of fulfilling k-coverage over target nodes, a large quantity of redundant data may be produced, which will cause network congestion, reduce communication efficiency, impair coverage quality, and exhaust network energy quickly. To solve this problem, the paper proposes an Energy-Efficient k-Coverage Algorithm (EEKCA), which attempts to construct a network coverage model by utilizing the relative positions of nodes. Through analyzing the model, the coverage expectations for nodes in the monitored area and the minimum number of nodes required for full coverage are computed. As for power consumption, the paper presents an energy shifting function between working nodes and neighboring nodes, by use of which the scheduling for low-energy node is completed, balancing the energy consumption over the entire network and optimizing network resources. Finally, simulation results suggest that the proposed algorithm not only can improve the coverage quality of network but also can prevent the rapid depletion of node energy, thus achieving the goal of extending network lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireless image sensor networks (WISNs) collect surveillance images, resulting in copious quantities of data requiring processing and transmission within the network. To reduce and balance energy expenditure during in-network image data processing and transmission, this study introduces an energy-saving strategy based on image super-resolution for WISNs assisted by cloud. The strategy constructs an image data processing and transmission system for WISNs, leveraging cloud infrastructure. By utilizing image quality feedback, the adaptive adjustment of image node sensing resolution is facilitated, minimizing image data transmission volume while ensuring high-quality super-resolution reconstructed image. The establishment of low-overhead, multipath transmission routes enables image nodes to transmit data in blocks, contingent upon neighboring transmission node statuses, thereby equalizing energy consumption for image data transmission. Cloud servers are employed to reconstruct high-resolution images and provide users with surveillance images that satisfy quality requisites. Empirical findings demonstrate that the proposed approach extends the lifetime of WISNs, furnishes users with superior-quality surveillance images, and markedly enhances network monitoring efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For Sc-containing Al-Li alloys, Al 3 Sc precipitates exhibited inhomogeneous distribution due to limited solid solubility, segregation and sluggish diffusion of Sc. Laser rapid melting (LRM) with its merit of increasing the solubility of alloying elements during solidification represents a pivotal technique for exploring new alloy compositions. In this study, microstructure evolution and aging precipitation behavior of a novel Al-Li-Cu-Mg-Ag-Sc alloy fabricated by LRM were investigated during a systematically optimized T6 heat treatment. No primary Al 3 Sc particles were formed during the rapid solidification, but coherent Al 3 Sc nanoparticles were precipitated in the subsequent cooling process. Maximum hardness of 202 HV was achieved after aging at 175 °C/18 h due to combined precipitation strengthening of the Al 3 Sc, δ', Al 3 (Li, Sc) and T 1 phases. Coherent Al 3 Sc was concerned with a sequence of atomic displacement modulations that led to varying degrees of {002} Al planar collapse, while interfacial dislocations were emitted from the interface of Al 3 Sc with coherency lost. The existing Al 3 Sc phases were available to be acted as nucleation sites for δ′ and T 1 to form composite phases. These results can provide indispensable information for compositional design of novel Al-Li alloy specifically for laser additive manufacturing. • A novel Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Ag-Sc alloy was fabricated by laser rapid melting. • The maximum hardness achieved 202 HV for the peak-aged alloy. • The precipitates of peak-aged alloy were Al 3 Sc, δ', Al 3 (Li, Sc) and T 1 phases. • Al 3 Sc was formed by atomic displacement modulations inducing {002} Al plane collapse. • Al 3 Sc would act as the nucleation sites for δ′ and T 1 to form composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Ag-Sc alloy was fabricated by direct energy deposition. • Dual-phase strengthening of Al 3 Sc and T 1 phases can be achieved with a single-stage T6 heat treatment. • The excellent compressive yield strengths achieved 512, 345 and 227 MPa at 20, 200 and 300 °C, respectively. • Al 3 Sc and T 1 phases can maintain strong pinning effects on dislocations. In this work, precipitation and deformation behavior of a novel Al-Cu-Li-Mg-Ag-Sc alloy fabricated by direct energy deposition (DED) were investigated in detail. Dual-phase strengthening of Al 3 Sc and T 1 (Al 2 CuLi) phases can be achieved with a single-stage T6 heat treatment compared to normal double-aging. The excellent compressive yield strengths achieved 512, 345 and 227 MPa at 20, 200 and 300 °C, respectively. Al 3 Sc and T 1 phases can maintain strong pinning effects on dislocations, suggesting a good work hardening ability during deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection is vital to improve the overall survival rate of bladder cancer (BCa) patients, yet there is a lack of a reliable urine-based assay for early detection of BCa. Urine metabolites represented a potential rich source of biomarkers for BCa. This study aimed to develop a metabolomics approach for high coverage discovery and identification of metabolites in urine samples. Urine samples from 23 early stage BCa patients and 21 healthy volunteers with minimum sample preparations were analyzed by a short 30 min UPLC-HRMS method. We detected and quantified over 9000 unique UPLC-HRMS features, which is more than four times than about 2000 features detected in previous urine metabolomic studies. Furthermore, multivariate OPLS-DA classification models were established to differentiate urine samples from bladder cancer cohort and normal health cohort. We identified three BCa-upregulated metabolites: nicotinuric acid, trehalose, AspAspGlyTrp, and three BCa-downregulated metabolites: inosinic acid, ureidosuccinic acid, GlyCysAlaLys. Finally, analysis of six post-surgery BCa urine samples showed that these BCa-metabolomic features reverted to normal state after tumor removal, suggesting that they reflected metabolomic features associated with BCa. ROC analyses using two linear regression models to combine the identified markers showed a high diagnostic performance for detecting BCa with AUC (area under the ROC curve) values of 0.919 to 0.934. In summary, we developed a high coverage metabolomic approach that has potential for biomarker discovery in cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coverage problem is an important research topic in the field of wireless sensor network (WSN). The coverage algorithm based on event probability driven mechanism (EPDM) is put forward in this paper. First of all, the network probability model is established and the subordinate relation between sensor nodes and the target nodes is presented. Secondly, a series of probability is computed and the related theorems and reasoning are also proven. Thirdly, effective coverage for the monitoring region is achieved through scheduling mechanism of nodes themselves, thus the purpose of increasing network lifetime can be realized. Finally, experimental results show that the proposed algorithm could achieve complete coverage for networks of different scale and increase the network lifetime. It possesses the good quality of effectiveness and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the ride comfort and handling stability performance of an articulated dumper truck (ADT). Considering the influence of the hydropneumatic suspension (HPS) with gas–oil emulsion on the ADT, a comprehensive ADT dynamic model is proposed. Also, on the basis of the nonlinear programming quadratic line (NLPQL) algorithm, an integrated multi-objective optimization method regarding the HPS with gas–oil emulsion is proposed to improve the comfort and stability and ensure enough suspension working space. The body acceleration, roll angle and pitch angle of HPS are optimized to a higher degree by 17.2%, 18.4% and 23% (with no load) and 18.3%, 17.7% and 23.1% (with full load) under random excitation input. The simulation results show that the NLPQL optimization method not only increases the ride comfort and handling stability performance of ADT with reasonable suspension working space, but also helps to guide the design of the ADT's HPS system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most deadly gynecological cancer around the world, with high morbidity in industrialized countries. Early diagnosis is key in reducing its morbidity rate. Yet, robust biomarkers, diagnostics, and animal models are still limited for ovarian cancer. This calls for broader omics and systems science oriented diagnostics strategies. In this vein, the domestic chicken has been used as an ovarian cancer animal model, owing to its high rate of developing spontaneous epithelial ovarian tumors. Chicken blood has thus been considered a surrogate reservoir from which cancer biomarkers can be identified. However, the presence of highly abundant proteins in chicken blood has compromised the applicability of proteomics tools to study chicken blood owing to a lack of immunodepletion methods. Here, we demonstrate that a combinatorial peptide ligand library (CPLL) can efficiently remove highly abundant proteins from chicken blood samples, consequently doubling the number of identified proteins. Using an integrated CPLL-1DGE-LC-MSMS workflow, we identified a catalog of 264 unique proteins. Functional analyses further suggested that most proteins were coagulation and complement factors, blood transport and binding proteins, immune- and defense-related proteins, proteases, protease inhibitors, cellular enzymes, or cell structure and adhesion proteins. Semiquantitative spectral counting analysis identified 10 potential biomarkers from the present chicken ovarian cancer model. Additionally, many human homologs of chicken blood proteins we have identified have been independently suggested as diagnostic biomarkers for ovarian cancer, further triangulating our novel observations reported here. In conclusion, the CPLL-assisted proteomic workflow using the chicken ovarian cancer model provides a feasible platform for translational research to identify ovarian cancer biomarkers and understand ovarian cancer biology. To the best of our knowledge, we report here the most comprehensive survey of the chicken blood proteome to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We evaluated a sequential elution protocol from immobilized metal affinity chromatography (SIMAC) employing gallium-based immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) in conjunction with titanium dioxide-based metal oxide affinity chromatography (MOAC). The quantitative performance of this SIMAC enrichment approach, assessed in terms of repeatability, dynamic range, and linearity, was evaluated using a mixture composed of tryptic peptides from caseins, bovine serum albumin, and phosphopeptide standards. Although our data demonstrate the overall consistent performance of the SIMAC approach under various loading conditions, the results also revealed that the method had limited repeatability and linearity for most phosphopeptides tested, and different phosphopeptides were found to have different linear ranges. These data suggest that, unless additional strategies are used, SIMAC should be regarded as a semiquantitative method when used in large-scale phosphoproteomics studies in complex backgrounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, a novel fluid-thermal-electric multiphysics numerical model is presented to predict the performance of a thermoelectric generator system applied in automobile waste heat recovery. The model considers the complete geometry, temperature-dependent material properties, topological connection among thermoelectric modules, and impedance matching, which can simulate the actual working conditions. Numerical simulations are carried out on the COMSOL platform combined with the exhaust temperature and exhaust mass flow rate under different vehicle speeds. In addition, the detailed physical field distribution characteristics of the automobile thermoelectric generator system, as well as the variations of output power, conversion efficiency, power losses, and net power with vehicle speed, are obtained. The position of thermoelectric modules on the hot side heat exchanger plays an important role in output uniformity, and the higher the vehicle speed is, the more uniform the output will be. At the vehicle speed of 120 km h−1, the output power and conversion efficiency of the automobile thermoelectric generator system are 38.07 W and 1.53% respectively. Considering the weight power loss and coolant pumping power loss, the net power is 23.66 W. This work fills the gap in evaluating the performance of automobile thermoelectric generator systems at different vehicle speeds comprehensively. • A fluid-thermal-electric multiphysics numerical model for automobile TEG systems is proposed. • Complete physical field distribution characteristics of the automobile TEG system is obtained. • Performance of the automobile TEG system under different vehicle speeds is investigated. • The effect of TEM location on the output performance is studied. • The net power analysis under different vehicle speeds is performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Protein phosphorylation has been widely documented as a key regulatory and signaling mechanism associated with many cardiac diseases. Recent advances in phosphoproteomic technologies such as phosphopeptide enrichment, novel mass spectrometry applications, and bioinformatic tools have resulted in high-throughput identification and quantitation of protein phosphorylation in a global manner. This review summarizes mainstream phosphoproteomic workflows and highlights the most recent applications of phosphoproteomics used in a range of molecular cardiology research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The soy-derived phytoestrogen genistein (GEN) has received attention for its potential benefits on the cardiovascular system by providing direct protection to cardiomyocytes against pathophysiological stresses. Here, we employed a proteomic approach to study the concentration-dependent effects of GEN treatments on cardiomyocytes. Cultured HL-1 cardiomyocytes were treated with low (1μM) and high (50μM) concentrations of GEN. Proteins were pre-fractionated by sequential hydrophilic/hydrophobic extraction and both protein fractions from each treatment group were separated by 2D gel electrophoresis (2DE). Overall, approximately 2,700 spots were visualized on the 2D gels. Thirty-nine and 99 spots changed in volume relative to controls (p<0.05) following the low- and high-concentration GEN treatments, respectively. From these spots, 25 and 62 protein species were identified by ESI-MS/MS and Mascot database searching, respectively. Identified proteins were further categorized according to their functions and possible links to cardioprotection were discussed. MetaCore gene ontology analysis suggested that 1μM GEN significantly impacted the anti-apoptosis process, and that both the low and high concentrations of GEN influenced the glucose catabolic process and regulation of ATPase activity. This proteomics study provides the first global insight into the molecular events triggered by GEN treatment in cardiomyocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Al–Li alloys containing scandium serve as excellent lightweight materials. However, the number of Al 3 Sc phases is extremely less due to the minor addition of Sc, resulting in deficient microhardness. Laser rapid melting has the advantage of enhancing solid solubility of alloying elements during rapid solidification, which becomes a critical technique to explore new components of alloys. This study aims to investigate the effects of major Sc content (0, 1, 3 and 5 wt%) on microstructure and microhardness of Al–Cu–Li-xSc alloys fabricated by laser rapid melting. The primary Al 3 Sc particles could greatly refine grains in Al–Cu–Li-1Sc alloy. With the increase of Sc content, more clustered Al 3 Sc particles nucleated during the latter stage of solidification but the grain refinement effect was not obvious. The growth restriction factor (Q) was calculated to determine the degree of constitutional supercooling (Δ T CS) that served as segregation of Sc during solidification. The spiculate T 1 (Al 2 CuLi) precipitates heterogeneously nucleated on the Al 3 Sc dispersoids. The maximum value of microhardness is 167 HV obtained in aged Al–Cu–Li-5Sc alloys. The novel Al–Cu–Li-xSc alloys can be designed as gradient hard Al–Li alloy materials. • The Al–Cu–Li- x Sc alloys were fabricated by laser rapid melting technology. • The degree of constitutional supercooling is quantified by growth restriction factor. • The Al 3 Sc-T 1 composite phases are found after aging treatment. • The microhardness is promoted with the increasing Sc contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal expansion molding process (TEMP) is a sophisticated molding technique for creating complex sandwich composites. The core key of TEMP is a high‐performance, thermally expandable resin film. In this study, the epoxy resin is used to create a specific crosslinking network that can provide the support force required for the stable molding of the vesicles during the expansion process of the foaming agent. The curing process of the resin was determined by analyzing the change in the exothermic amount of the epoxy resin during the curing process and the flow behavior of the resin. The pore size distribution of the epoxy foam was investigated, and the expansion force of the thermally expandable resin was tested. The TEMP molding process was compared with the vacuum bag press molding (VBPM) process. The TEMP molding technique increased tensile and compressive strength by about 25%, flexural strength by 34.5%, and shear strength by 54.5%. Finally, the section on microanalysis of the comparative materials and the short beam bending experiments of the sandwich structure provides a theoretical foundation for developing complicated sandwich structures. Highlights: Preparation of thermally expandable epoxy prepregs with stabilized foaming by means of pre‐curing.The effects of curing temperature, foaming agent content and expansion multiplicity on the thermal expansion force of epoxy prepreg adhesives were investigated.Thermally expandable epoxy prepreg molding composites with different expansion multiplicities and analysis of the mechanical properties of the composites.Preparation of foam core sandwich composites by thermal expansion in‐mold monolithic molding process and their verification by bending experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary particles account for a considerable proportion of fine particles (PM 2.5) and reasonable reapportioning them to primary sources is critical for designing effective strategies for air quality improvement. This study developed a method which can reapportion secondary sources of PM 2.5 solved by positive matrix factorization (PMF) to primary sources based on the isotopic signals of nitrate, ammonium and sulfate. Actual PM 2.5 data in Beijing were used as a case study to assess the feasibility and capacity of this method. In the case, 20 chemical components were used to apportion PM 2.5 sources and source contributions of nitrate were applied to reapportion secondary source to primary sources. The model performance was also estimated by radiocarbon measurement (14C) of organic (OC) and elemental (EC) carbons of eight samples. The PMF apportioned seven sources: the secondary source (36.1%), vehicle exhausts (18.7%), industrial sources (13.6%), biomass burning (11.4%), coal combustion (8.10%), construction dust (7.93%) and fuel oil combustion (4.24%). After the reapportionment of the secondary source, vehicle exhausts (28.7%) contributed the most to PM 2.5 , followed by biomass burning (25.1%) and industrial sources (18.9%). Fossil oil combustion and coal combustion increased to 8.00% and 11.4%, respectively, and construction dust contributed the least. The average gap between contributions of identified sources to OC and EC and the 14C measurements decreased 2.5 ± 1.2% after the reapportionment than 13.2 ± 10.8%, indicating the good performance of the developed method. Unlabelled Image • A method to reapportion secondary sources of PM 2.5 solved by PMF is proposed. • Utilizing stable isotopes as tracers of secondary components to reapportion • Biomass burning and vehicle exhausts contribute the most to the secondary source. • Comparison between improved results and 14C measurements indicates its feasibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of core-shell structure helps in enhancing upconversion luminescence in lanthanide-doped micro/nanomaterials. This study aimed to synthesize a series of NaYF 4 and NaErF 4 core-shell microrods based on epitaxial growth technology so as to enhance the upconversion emission. The upconversion luminescence properties of single NaYF 4 :Yb3+/Er3+ and NaErF 4 microrods with different core-shell structures were carefully studied using a confocal microscope spectroscopy test system under 980-nm near-infrared excitation. The upconversion emission intensity and red-to-green emission intensity ratio of Er3+ ions were remarkably enhanced in different single microrods by building different inert and active core-shell structures. The higher red-to-green ratio was mainly due to the cross-relaxation between Er3+ ions and the energy back-transfer process from Er3+ to Yb3+ ions, which were explained on the basis of spectral characteristics and rate equations. These tunable NaYF 4 and NaErF 4 core-shell microrods had the potential to be applied to displays, micro-lasers, and anti-counterfeiting. Image 1 • A series of NaY/ErF 4 core-shell microrods have been successfully synthesized via hydrothermal method. • The upconversion luminescence properties of single NaY/ErF 4 microrod with different core-shell structures are investigated. • The stronger upconversion emission and higher R/G ratio were obtained in NaErF 4 core-shell microrods. • The luminescence mechanisms of Er3+ ions in different core-shell structures have been carefully discussed. • The construction of micron core-shell can not only enhance the luminescence, but also provide a new way to construct new micro-materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state electrolyte is a key component of high-energy-density and security all-solid-state lithium metal battery. However, the present solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) often suffers from the trade-off between ionic conductivity and mechanical stability. To this end, lithiated polydopamine-modified graphene oxide nanosheets (LiDGO) are fabricated, and incorporated into the representative poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) matrix to prepare hybrid solid polymer electrolyte (HSPE). Despite the decreased crystallinity of PEO, the intrinsic advantage of organic-inorganic hybridization affords PEO-based HSPE highly improved mechanical stability. The tensile strength and elongation at break of HSPE are, respectively, 237% and 133% higher than those of blank PEO. The constructed long-range conduction pathways with locally concentrated Li+ at PEO-LiDGO interfaces impart HSPE highly enhanced ionic conductivity. The ionic conductivity reaches 3.4 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 30 °C, 10 times higher than that of blank PEO. These then bring excellent battery performances. The assembled battery achieves a discharge capacity of ~156 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles with ultra-high capacity retention of 98.7%. The strategy of utilizing lithiated nanosheets to address the trade-off between ionic conductivity and mechanical stability of SPE may pave the way for the development of high performance all-solid-state lithium metal batteries. Image 1 • Lithiated nanosheets are fabricated to hybridize solid polymer electrolyte. • The organic-inorganic interfaces with enriched Li+ serve as Li+ transfer highways. • Ten times' enhancement of ionic conductivity is achieved for hybrid electrolyte. • The tensile strength and elongation at break are enhanced by 237% and 133%. • Superior cell behavior (156 mAh g−1, 98.7% retention after 200 cycles) is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, Large Eddy Simulation (LES) is employed to investigate the heat transfer performance and flow characteristic in a rectangular channel with three-row miniature square column vortex generators (MSCVGs) as Reynolds number varies from 3745 to 11,235. The height of the MSCVGs is less than the thickness of the boundary layer, and MSCVGs arrays arranged in the form of aligned and staggered. In aligned and staggered arrangements, the spanwise distance between adjacent MSCVGs in the same row is 100 and 200 wall units, respectively. The numerical result indicates that the wake induced by the MSCVGs arrays has an obvious impact on the boundary layer. The wakes induced by the MSCVGs in aligned and staggered arrangements act as the "restricted belt" and "restricted plate" respectively, which can particularly alter and adjust the original flow structures, velocity streaks and vortices in the boundary layer. For the aligned array arrangement, the wakes induced by MSCVGs can improve the heat transfer performance of the channel as well as obtain the drag reduction. For the staggered array arrangement, the frictional coefficient of the channel decreases by up to 11.95%, and the Nusselt number decreases slightly with the effective reduction of the frictional resistance. The overall performance coefficient of the channel with three-row MSCVGs in staggered or aligned arrangements are both greater than 1 in all considered Reynolds number ranges, which means that MSCVGs arrays can enhance the overall thermal performance of the channel. • The height of MSCVG is far less than the thickness of boundary layer. • MSCVGs in aligned and staggered arrangement keep the same projection spanwise spacing. • The wakes induced by MSCVGs in aligned and staggered work as the "restricted belt" and "restricted plate", respectively. • For aligned array, the augment of heat transfer and reduction of frictional resistance are obtained simultaneously. • The MSCVGs arrays in staggered and aligned both improve the overall performance of the channel in all considered Reynolds number ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moloney leukemia virus 10 protein (MOV10) is an IFN-inducible RNA helicase implicated in antiviral activity against RNA viruses, yet its role in herpesvirus infection has not been investigated. After corneal inoculation of mice with herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), we observed strong upregulation of both MOV10 mRNA and protein in acutely infected mouse trigeminal ganglia. MOV10 suppressed HSV-1 replication in both neuronal and non-neuronal cells, and this suppression required the N-terminus, but not C-terminal helicase domain of MOV10. MOV10 repressed expression of the viral gene ICP0 in transfected cells, but suppressed HSV-1 replication independently of ICP0. MOV10 increased expression of type I IFN in HSV-1 infected cells with little effect on IFN downstream signaling. Treating the cells with IFN-α or an inhibitor of the IFN receptor eliminated MOV10 suppression of HSV-1 replication. MOV10 enhanced IFN production stimulated by cytoplasmic RNA rather than DNA. IKKε co-immunoprecipitated with MOV10 and was required for MOV10 restriction of HSV-1 replication. Mass spectrometry identified ICP27 as a viral protein interacting with MOV10. Co-immunoprecipitation results suggested that this interaction depended on the RGG box of ICP27 and both termini of MOV10. Overexpressed ICP27, but not its RGG-Box deletion mutant, rendered MOV10 unable to regulate HSV-1 replication and type I IFN production. In summary, MOV10 is induced to restrict HSV-1 lytic infection by promoting the type I IFN response through an IKKε-mediated RNA sensing pathway, and its activity is potentially antagonized by ICP27 in an RGG box dependent manner. Author summary: Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is a ubiquitous DNA virus that can cause various human diseases. Upon HSV-1 invasion, the host elicited the type I interferon (IFN) response as the first line of defense, in which numerous host factors are induced to restrict viral infection, yet our knowledge about these restriction factors remains limited. Here we show that during HSV-1 acute infection Moloney leukemia virus 10 protein (MOV10) was induced to restrict HSV-1 productive infection. MOV10 restricted HSV-1 replication by promoting type I IFN production through an IKKε-mediated RNA sensing pathway. Moreover, we identified ICP27 as a viral protein that can interact with MOV10 and antagonize its antiviral activity. Thus we establish MOV10 as a host restriction factor against a herpesvirus for the first time and expand our knowledge about how viral and host proteins modulate the IFN response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]