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Semantic segmentation of Polarimetric SAR (PolSAR) images is an important research topic in remote sensing. Many deep neural network-based semantic segmentation methods have been applied to PolSAR image segmentation tasks. However, a lack of effective means to deal with the similarity of object features and speckle noise in PolSAR images exists. Thisstudy aims to improve the discriminative capability of neural networks for various intensities of backscattering coefficients while reducing the effects of noise in PolSAR semantic segmentation tasks. Firstly, we propose pre-processing methods for PolSAR image data, which consist of the fusion of multi-source data and false color mapping. Then, we propose a Multi-axis Sequence Attention Segmentation Network (MASA-SegNet) for semantic segmentation of PolSAR data, which is an encoder–decoder framework. Specifically, within the encoder, a feature extractor is designed and implemented by stacking Multi-axis Sequence Attention blocks to efficiently extract PolSAR features at multiple scales while mitigating inter-class similarities and intra-class differences from speckle noise. Moreover, the process of serialized residual connection design enables the propagation of spatial information throughout the network, thereby improving the overall spatial awareness of MASA-SegNet. Within the decoder, it is used to accomplish the semantic segmentation task. The superiority of this algorithm for semantic segmentation will be explored through feature visualization. The experiments show that our proposed spatial sequence attention mechanism can effectively extract features and reduce noise interference and is thus able to obtain the best results on two large-scale public datasets (the AIR-POlSAR-Seg and FUSAR-Map datasets). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The partial replacement of chemical fertilizer with straw return is considered an effective method for improving the accumulation of organic matter and soil fertility, but the characteristics of soil nitrogen fixation and mineralization in a double-cropped rice paddy system are unclear. Based on a 12-year field experiment, we conducted a waterlogged incubation experiment for 49 days to determine the effect of long-term straw return combined with reducing chemical fertilizer application on the dynamic changes of mineralized soil nitrogen (N) content and mineralized N rate under the treatments, including NPK (chemical fertilizers application with straw removal), SBR (straw burned return), and SR (straw return). Results showed that, compared with SBR and NPK, SR significantly increased available nitrogen by 7.4% and 16.5%, respectively, due to the higher ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen, as well as the total carbon, available phosphorus, and slowly available potassium, suggesting that it could stock a sufficient nitrogen source. During the incubation period, the amount of N mineralization was relatively higher under SR than under SBR and NPK treatments, especially during the later mineralization time, whereas there was no difference in the N mineralization rate. In addition, SR significantly increased soil cumulative N mineralization and N mineralization potential. However, SBR significantly decreased the soil mineralizable N ratio compared with SR and NPK, which may result in a worsening of the N mineralization potential. The results indicated that long-term straw return combined with reducing chemical fertilizer application could significantly improve the N supply capacity of paddy rice field soil to better coordinate the soil N supply and immobilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The characteristics of high-frequency oscillation in MMC-HVDC systems are analyzed and summarized by impedance method. • The influence of the parameters of passive filters on impedance shaping effect is analyzed and summarized. • A passive damping parameter design method which can be implemented based on "black box" model or simplified theoretical model of MMC station is presented in detail. • The proposed method reduces the capacity of the passive damping device while ensuring system stability margin. Recent years, there have been several high-frequency oscillation events in modular multilevel converter (MMC) based DC current projects. Considering the wideband oscillation characteristics of this issue, passive MMC impedance shaping methods are superior solutions for their advantages over the active methods in enhancing the broadband damping level. However, the optimization of parallel passive devices mainly focused on reactive power compensation and the suppression of characteristic harmonics generated by low-level inverters, which is not applicable to MMC systems. To address the optimization design problem of passive damping devices, this paper proposes an optimized design method for passive filters by analyzing the relationship between the passive damping device and the impedance shaping effect of the inverter. The proposed method reduces the capacity of the passive damping device while ensuring system stability margin. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed passive impedance shaping strategy is verified through time-domain simulations considering changes in AC side operating conditions and power reduction operation of the MMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the difficulty of characterizing the optical constants of ZnS at high temperatures, the multi-phonon absorption dielectric function model which includes temperature parameters is constructed and modified in this paper. The multi-phonon absorption parameters of ZnS have been inverted based on variable temperature infrared transmittance spectra. The variable temperature infrared transmittance spectra of ZnS have been well fitted. The temperature dependence of the dissociation energy of ZnS materials is demonstrated, and the optical constants of the ZnS material have been obtained at 25 °C, 100 °C, 200 °C, 300 °C, and 400 °C. • The relationship between the value of m max and temperature is established in the multi-phonon absorption model of ZnS. • The ZnS multi-phonon parameters for various temperatures obtained by spectral inversion conform to physical laws. • Highly accurate variable-temperature optical constants of ZnS were obtained based on the multi-phonon absorption model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible thermoelectrics, including flexible thermoelectric materials and devices, can directly convert the heat from human body into useful electricity, providing a promising solution for uninterrupted power to wearables. In the past decade, flexible thermoelectrics has achieved notable progress. Various kinds of flexible thermoelectric materials have been developed and some of them have been fabricated into flexible thermoelectric devices, showing the ability to generate nW‐level or even μW‐level electricity. Herein, the basic design principles and typical configurations of flexible thermoelectric devices, as well as the requirements on thermoelectric materials to achieve high performance flexible thermoelectric devices, are first introduced. Then, the recent progress achieved in flexible thermoelectric devices based on organics materials, traditional inorganic materials, other organic/inorganic composites/hybrids, and plastic deformable inorganic semiconductors, respectively, are summarized. Finally, an outlook on the future development of flexible thermoelectrics is briefly given. This study sheds light on the further development of flexible thermoelectrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to enhance the utilization of millet straw and reduce N 2 O emissions, used the semi-interpenetrating (Semi-IPN) technology to develop a novel straw-based material (CSC-g-PAA/PPVA) through the composite integration of modified straw and linear polymer (PPVA). The fourier-transform infrared, x-ray diffraction, x-photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques were be measured to provide evidence of the structure and morphology characterization of CSC-g-PAA/PPVA. The results demonstrated that it exhibited excellent water absorbency and enhanced the adsorption capacity of inorganic nitrogen, with the maximum adsorption of NH 4 + and NO 3 - were 94.5 mg/g and 70.3 mg/g, respectively. The properties of CSC-g-PAA/PPVA could significantly reduce N 2 O emissions, which was 42.5–95.7% lower than that of the fertilization groups, demonstrated that the modified material produced in this study had significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. [Display omitted] • The soil conditioner is derived from corn straw, which can enhance waste straw utilization. • The product is rich in typical functional group, providing active sites for NH 4 +, NO 3 - retention. • The straw-based conditioner has significant potential to reduce N 2 O emissions in soil. • Preparing by waste straw can reduce cost, is beneficial to industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans have innately established close and profound ties with the, and through these relationships shaped many kinds of landscapes. Among these are sacred landscapes, which have drawn the attention of researchers due to their cultural significance. In the field of health geography, large-sized sacred regional landscapes are now the focus of studies for their therapeutic properties. However, few scholars have focused on small sacred landscape systems at the community level (constructed by local communities) or the physical and psycological health benefits that these landscapes offer to the local residents. These small-sized and widespread, but often hidden, sacred landscapes are closely tied to people's daily lives and work. They have evolved and grown over millennia to become critical sociocultural phenomena. This study takes the sacred bao ye landscape of the Dong people of China as the research subject. By adopting the case study approach, field research, semi-structured interviews, and textual analysis, it summarizes the types, geographical distribution, rituals and processes of bao ye as a sacred landscape of the Huanggang village in Guizhou Province, and concludes with an analysis of motivation and health benefits to the bao ye worship. In this paper we argue that bao ye is a sacred landscape system focusing on the healthy development of children, and constitutes a local belief developed in an isolated environment lacking medical resources, which remains in practice. The sacred landscape of bao ye offers a therapeutic environment, providing children with increased opportunities to engage with and build deep connections to nature. Thruogh this process children may develop a bond with nature that inspires them to protect nature on their own accord. We argue that bao ye offers an important case study for understanding the landscape-people-healing interactivity at the community level. • Sacred landscapes have beneficial effects on the physical and mental health of humans. • The community-level sacred landscape of Bao ye is important for the healthy development of local children. • The sacred landscape system of the Dong people helps to better protect this precious traditional cultural landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Currently available treatments do not halt progression of photoreceptor death and subsequent visual impairment related to retinal detachment (RD) which is observed in various retinal disorders. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of two adrenoceptor ligands, the α1 -adrenoceptor antagonist doxazosin and the α2 -adrenoceptor agonist guanabenz, against photoreceptor cell death in RD.Experimental Approach: We used a model of experimental RD in Brown-Norway rats induced by subretinal injection of sodium hyaluronate. Oxidative stress biomarkers and cytokine production were quantified with elisa. Protein expression levels and immunofluorescent labelling were determined in rats with RD and controls for mechanistic elucidation. The effects of systemic (i.p.) administration of doxazosin or guanabenz on photoreceptor apoptosis, retinal histology and electroretinography were evaluated in rats with RD and compared to the effects in vehicle controls.Key Results: Photoreceptors were the major source of RD-induced ROS overproduction in the rat retina through the regulation of NADPH oxidase. Systemic administration of doxazosin or guanabenz decreased the RD-induced production of ROS and proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β and the chemokine CCL2, and suppressed retinal gliosis, resulting in attenuation of photoreceptor death and preservation of retinal structures and functions in RD.Conclusions and Implications: Our findings point to α-adrenoceptors as novel therapeutic targets to provide photoreceptor protection and suggest that both doxazosin and guanabenz, two FDA-approved drugs, could be further explored to treat retinal diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Interaction of flavor substances in sesame-flavor baijiu was studied firstly. • Volatile change was the reason for the interaction affecting the flavor perception. • Structure and phase ratio affected the volatility of esters. • The interaction prediction model is established firstly to realize rapid judgment. The interaction between 1,3-dimethyltrisulfide and aroma-active compounds in sesame-flavor baijiu was evaluated by Feller's additive model and Odor Activity Value Approach, and the reason for the interaction can promote the release of fruity and caramel aromas of ethyl caproate, ethyl was explored by the Partition Coefficient Approach. The interaction results indicated that 1,3-dimethyltrisulfide caprate and furan-2-ylmethanol. Others showed masking effect. The Partition Coefficient showed that the effect of 1,3-dimethyltrisulfide on the volatility of esters was one of the reasons for the interaction affecting the flavor perception, and the volatility of ethyl esters with longer carbon chains at high phase ratio (PRs) is more likely to be promoted. Besides, the prediction model was initially proposed: y = 2.0112 ln(x) + 0.1461, which indicated that esters with the olfactory threshold lower than 33.80 μg/L are more likely to have positive effects with 1,3-dimethyltrisulfide, the negative effect is more likely to occur conversely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Melanoidins were mostly produced during distillation. • Melanoidins were primarily composed of carbohydrates. • Melanoidins formed during fermentation and distillation had structural differences. • Carbohydrates, proteins and phenols are involved in melanoidin formation diversely. Chinese liquor (baijiu) is a typical fermented food. In which production, melanoidins are formed in fermenting grains during low-temperature fermentation with long-term, and in distilled grains with high-temperature distillation for short-term. Here, the formation and structural characterization of melanoidins in these two distinct stages were first investigated through chemical composition analysis and spectroscopic identification. Our research showed that proteins and phenols continuously participate in melanoidin formation during fermentation and distillation processes. Distillation could produce melanoidins with larger amounts, darker colors, higher molecular weights, and more stable states than fermentation. The chemical composition including 10 carbohydrates, 17 amino acids, 5 free phenolic acids, and 7 bound phenolic acids was successfully identified in melanoidins. Ion chromatography was proposed to be an efficient method to investigate carbohydrates in melanoidins. Moreover, the potential impact of microorganisms on melanoidins was first revealed to be the possible utilization of glucose in melanoidins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to enhance the utilization of millet straw and endow it with the fertilizer function through modifying the carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-NH 4), based on wheat straw, by acidification and ammonification to improve water and fertilizer efficiency. Amine group was introduced through the electrophilic substitution to supply nutrients to crops. The order of influential factors on the water absorption property was determined by an orthogonal experiment and showed that the highest water absorbency of 224.7 g/g, which was achieved for the conditions of 3:1 carboxymethylcellulose to nitric acid solution (mass percentage concentration of 50%), 3:1 carboxymethylcellulose to ammonia solution with the mass percentage concentration is 30%. The CMC-NH 4 was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, fourier-transform infrared, x-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques, and the results indicated that application of CMC-NH 4 promoted the growth indexes of wheat, improved wheat yields. Therefore, the waste straw was modified into the soil conditioner with specific function by the group targeted modification strategy. In addition, the fertilizer efficiency and water-retention behavior of CMC-NH 4 encouraged its use as a safe water- and fertilizer-retaining agent in agricultural applications. [Display omitted] • The product prepared by straw can reduces cost, is easy for agricultural extension. • The CMC-NH 4 is rich in ammonium, could provide fertilizer for crop growth. • The product shows excellent water retention and could prevent water percolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is an important mental disease of global concern. Its complicated etiology and chronic clinical features make it difficult for users to be conscious of their own depression emotion and seriously threaten the patient’s life safety. With the development of e-commerce, intelligent recommender system has brought new opportunities to personalized health monitoring for the users with emotional distress. Therefore, this paper puts forward the emHealth system, which is an intelligent health recommendation system with depression prediction for emotion health. This paper explores the monitoring and improvement of users psychological and physiological conditions by pushing personalized therapy solutions to patients with emotional distress. Specifically, this paper first proposes the system architecture of emHealth. Then, we design personalized mobile phone Apps to collect emotional data of users with tendentious depressive mood, and find the five main external characteristics of depression by Pearson correlation analysis. We divide 1047 volunteers data into training set and test set, and construct prediction model of depression using decision tree and support vector machine algorithms. For the different external factors that lead to depression, we give personalized recommendation and intelligent decision-making solution, and push related emotional improvement suggestions to guide users behavior. Finally, a specific application scene is demonstrated where patient’s family member carry out psychological counseling for the patient, to verify the practicability and validity of the system. The beneficial effects of this system can meet the needs of the electronic market and can be promoted and popularized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the standardized Euclidean distance method, an evaluation theory for sustainable agricultural development was constructed, which includes a sustainable agricultural development model, an evaluation function model, a sustainable agricultural development exponent (SADE), a rank of the sustainable agricultural development, an index frame of the sustainable agricultural development, a goal system, and a zero system. Data from Zhenyuan County of Gansu province (ZYC) between 2000 and 2012 was used as a case study of the theory. The SADE of ZYC was [0.34, 0.90], and the agriculture system exhibited low sustainability from 2000 to 2003, mid sustainability from 2004 to 2007, and high sustainability from 2008 to 2012. The results explained the actual ZYC situation, and showed that the Euclidean distance method of sustainable agricultural development is feasible. The innovativeness and merits of the method include: (1) reliable methodology, (2) construction using goal and zero systems, which serve as reference systems of sustainable agricultural development and allow control of the evaluation, and (3) index weights embedded in the evaluation function, which prevents errors or mistakes in the expert scoring method and prevents the reassignment of index weights due to adding or subtracting indicators. The main reasons that the SADE increased in ZYC include suitable chemical fertilization and pesticide application, enhancement of conservation farming areas, soil testing and fertilizer-formulated areas, and drinking water security in rural and non-disaster crop areas. The main problems with increasing the SADE in ZYC include straw application and low farmer income, both of which should be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To quantify macular vascular density using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and to investigate its relationship with retinal thickness in myopic eyes of young adults. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, 268 myopic eyes without pathological changes were recruited and divided into three groups: mild myopia (n=81), moderate myopia (n=117), and high myopia (n=70). Macular vascular density was quantified by OCTA and compared among three groups. Average retinal thickness, central subfield thickness, and macular ganglion cell complex (mGCC) thickness were also evaluated and compared. Correlations among these variables were analyzed. Results. There was no statistical difference in superficial (62.3 ± 5.7% versus 62.7 ± 5.9% versus 63.8 ± 5.5%) and deep macular vascular densities (58.3 ± 9.6% versus 59.2 ± 9.3% versus 60.9 ± 7.9%) among mild-myopia, moderate-myopia, and high-myopia groups (both P>0.05). Superficial and deep macular vascular densities both had correlations with mean arterial pressure. Furthermore, superficial macular vascular density was significantly correlated with mGCC thickness. Conclusions. Varying degrees of myopia did not affect macular vascular density in young healthy adults. In addition, superficial macular vascular density, as an independent factor, was positively correlated with mGCC thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High-frequency resonance is suppressed by broadband MMC impedance reshaping. • Phase compensation is adopted to eliminate the negative damping of MMC. • The proposed method is effective under various operating scenarios of ac grid. • A controller parameter design method is presented in detail. Negative damping in modular multilevel converter (MMC) impedance may lead to high-frequency resonance (HFR) in MMC-high-voltage direct current systems. The existing solution is based on amplitude attenuation by digital filters. However, filters have weak amplitude attenuation and obvious phase shifts in the attenuation band, resulting in the transfer of negative damping. The system still has a risk of HFR when grid condition is changed. This study proposed a broadband active damping method based on phase compensation to address this limitation. The embedding position and scheme of the phase compensation controller are optimally designed through impedance-based analysis. By tuning parameters correctly, the negative damping of MMC is eliminated over a wide frequency range (500–2000 Hz). Thus, the proposed method performs better in HFR suppressing under varying grid conditions. In addition, considering the harmonic amplification problem caused by the differential link, an inertia link and a proportional link are further employed to increase high frequency impedance magnitude. Time-domain simulations in MATLAB/SIMULINK verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel “net-like” nanostructured cell-substrate interface to enhance the human osteoblast cell's functions in orthopedic applications was proposed. This novel “net-like” nanostructured surface was fabricated on 316L stainless steel by using ultrasonic shot peening. The in vitro study indicated that this “net-like” nanostructured cell-substrate interface could significantly enhance the attachment, spreading and proliferation rate of the human osteoblast cells (Saos-2) compared with the as-received surface with coarse grains. The enhancement of cell functions could be attributed to the high density grain boundaries in the “net-like” nanostructured surface, which could promote protein adsorption when material comes in contact with biological environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The correlations between the average linear thermal expansion coefficient < α > and glass transition temperature T g and between GV m (G is shear modulus and V m is molar volume) and T g for a variety of metallic glasses (MGs) were investigated. A Lindemann-like equation, < α > × T g = 0.75 × 10−2, is observed, indicating that the glass transition of MGs follows Lindemann-like rule. The relationship provides a new perspective to understand the mechanism of glass transition and a simple method to predict T g for a given MG. Additionally, T g is found to vary linearly with GV m , implying that an inherent relevance between glass transition and plastic deformation of MGs. Highlights • A Lindemann-like equation, < α > × T g = 0.75 × 10−2, is observed. • T g is found to vary linearly with GV m. • These relationships provide a perspective to understand the glass transition and plastic deformation of MGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid-liquid microextraction (LLME) combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and headspace-gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) were used to detect the variations in volatile compounds during the distillation process of strong flavor raw Baijiu. The 3D fingerprint spectrum clearly showed a variation in volatile compounds from different distillation stages, and most alcohol-soluble and low molecular weight compounds showed a downward trend with the extension of distillation time, but water-soluble, high molecular weight and high boiling compounds showed the opposite result. Then, 50 aroma compounds were sniffed and identified by gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry (GC-O-MS) and multivariate statistical analysis including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) confirmed four aroma active markers related to classification. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was further used to verify that ethyl butanoate and ethyl hexanoate were the most effective difference marker to distinguish the head Baijiu samples and butanoic acid was the most effective difference marker for distinguishing the heart Baijiu samples from the tail Baijiu samples. [Display omitted] • LLME coupled with GC-O-MS was used to analyze the changes of aroma active compounds. • GC-MS and GC-IMS were compared the differences in the detection of compounds. • ROC curve was used to verify the most effective difference markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Task-state and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have revealed different brain responses in chronic cigarette smokers compared with healthy controls. However, little is known about the differences between chronic cigarette smokers and healthy subjects regarding the local synchronization of spontaneous brain activity in the resting state. Objectives: In this study, we used regional homogeneity (ReHo) analysis based on resting-state fMRI to investigate intrinsic brain activity in heavy smokers. Methods: Thirty-one heavy smokers and 33 healthy non-smokers were included in this study. ReHo was used to measure spontaneous brain activity, and whole-brain voxel-wise comparisons of ReHo were performed to detect brain regions with altered spontaneous brain activity between groups. Results: Compared with non-smokers, heavy smokers showed decreased ReHo primarily in brain regions associated with the default-mode, frontoparietal attention, and inhibitory control networks; heavy smokers showed increased ReHo predominately in regions related to motor planning. Conclusions: Our results suggest that heavy smokers may have altered spontaneous brain activity in some brain regions that are associated with higher cognitive networks. Moreover, our study improves the understanding of the effects of chronic cigarette smoking on spontaneous brain activity and the pathophysiological mechanisms of nicotine dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to enhance utilization of millet straw and reduce fertilizer loss, a novel multifunctional fertilizer (MS-g-PAA/PDMUA) was developed using straw cellulose and linear polymer (PDMUA) by semi-interpenetrating technology. The structure and morphology characterization of MS-g-PAA/PDMUA were measured by fourier-transform infrared, x-ray diffraction, x-photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques, to provide evidence of semi-IPNs networks and component interactions, and the results show that the product exhibited excellent water absorbency (562.3 g/g) and enhanced the soil infiltration. Cumulative release of N, P was 49.2% and 55.1%, respectively, after 40 days, coming up to the Committee of European Normalization (CEN) standard. The agricultural application of MS-g-PAA/PDMUA showed that it could promote growth indexes of wheat, which could improve wheat yields. Therefore, desirable water retention, slow-release properties, and wheat growth effects highlight the product's potential for agriculture application. [Display omitted] ● MS-g-PAA/PDMUA is derived from millet straw, can enhance waste straw utilization. ● The MS-g-PAA/PDMUA is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, which promote wheat growth. ● The product has excellent water retention and slow fertilizer-release properties. ● Preparing by waste straw can reduce cost, is beneficial to industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soy sauce aroma type baijiu (SSAB) is one of the four basic baijiu flavor types. It has an elegant sauce flavor, empty cup aroma, lasting, mellow and sweet entrance, soft with obvious acidity, delicate taste and long aftertaste. However, to date, no study has identified the key aroma compounds in SSAB. This study introduces SSAB and its production process, and summarizes the research status on flavor compounds. Through analysis and review, some assumptions are made to explain why the key aroma compound of SSAB remains unidentified. We provide insights for the analysis of key aroma compounds in SSAB and lay a theoretical foundation for the improvement and rapid development of SSAB quality. • Specific summarizes the research of key volatile compounds in soy sauce aroma type baijiu. • Summarizes the research of off-odor components in soy sauce aroma type baijiu. • First time to analyzes why the key flavor of soy sauce aroma type baijiu have not been discovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A steady cone-jet occurs in a greater range of liquid flow rates for a hemispherical capillary. • Varicose and whipping regimes are easily obtained with a hemispherical nozzle. • The transition from varicose and whipping usually depends on interfacial forces on the jet. • A general parameter to determine varicose, transition, and whipping regimes is presented. A cone-jet regime in electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) is widely applied into printing, electro-spinning, spray-coating, and biological mass spectrometry. Regulating different instabilities of jet is crucial for optimizing its operating parameters. In present work, an atypical, hemispherical capillary with inner diameter of 0.40 mm and cap size of 6.20 mm was employed as atomization nozzle, through which a steady cone-jet regime was confirmed versus suitable feeding liquid flow rate and electric potential. A permanent and highly charged jet emits from a Taylor cone apex and further disintegrates into fine highly charged drops in the form of varicose or whipping instabilities. The results indicate that a steady cone-jet is observed in the specific ranges of the feeding liquid flow rate, electric potential and conductivity. The typical breakup instabilities including varicose and whipping are clearly observed with an increase in liquid flow rate for a fixed electric potential for most of liquids, and the transition from varicose to whipping instability easily occurs. For a steady cone-jet, the jet breakup instabilities usually depends on the competition between interfacial forces on the electrified jet. The transition process involving a low-viscosity jet with a large flow rate is observed, and the general parameter G = Γ 2 δ μ 0.52 is calculated to account for surface charge, surface tension, and viscosity effects, where Γ is the electric force to surface tension ratio and δ μ is the inertia to viscous force ratio. Finally, the varicose, transition regime, and whipping are classified with first and second critical threshold values G = 40 and G = 102, respectively. Meanwhile, as the electrified jet transforms from varicose to whipping instabilities, the jet breakup length shows a trend of increasing first and then decreasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The necking time is independent of electric field in a reasonable range of flow rate. • The transition from dripping to jetting is enhanced by electric field for relatively small tube. • A model for the transition from periodic dripping to jetting is established in an electric field. • A critical criterion for the transition is presented and in reasonable agreement with experiments. A liquid is issued from the outlet of the capillary tube vertically, and drop formation may be in the form of periodic dripping, dripping faucet and jetting, which usually depends on flow rate or Weber number. We consider the critical Weber number (W e C = ρV 0 2 D / σ) at which the transition from periodic dripping to jetting occurs in the presence of an electric field, where high-resolution images are recorded. The necking time is mainly related to nozzle diameter and surface tension, and independent of electric potential and flow rate (in a reasonable range).The first threshold limit decreases with an increase in electric potential, where the dripping faucet is clearly affected and the point of drop detachment gradually increases. When the drop formation is in the form of dripping faucet, the transition from dripping faucet to jetting regime is enhanced by electric potential, where a sudden transition could be observed in an extremely limited range of liquid flow rate. The critical criterion (Weber number) is presented to determine the transition from dripping to jetting in the presence of an electric field. The critical Weber number is in a reasonable agreement with the experiment, although the predicted results are quantitatively divergent with experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Baijiu is a unique and traditional distilled liquor in China. Flavor plays a crucial rule in baijiu. Up to now, the research on the flavor of baijiu has progressed from the identification of volatile compounds to the research on key aroma compounds, but the release mechanism of these characteristic compounds is still unclear. Meanwhile, volatile compounds account for only a tiny fraction, whereas ethanol and water account for more than 98% of the content in baijiu. By summarizing the ethanol–water hydrogen bond structure in different alcoholic beverages, it was found that flavor compounds can affect the association strength of the ethanol–water hydrogen bond, and ethanol–water can also affect the interface distribution of flavor compounds. Therefore, the research on ethanol–water microstructure in baijiu is helpful to realize the simple visualization of adulteration detection, aging determination and flavor release mechanism analysis of baijiu, and further uncover the mystery of baijiu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper focuses on the gas sensing properties of the mixed-potential-type NO2 sensor based on yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and NiO electrode. The sensing performance of the sensor was improved by modifying the three-phase boundary (TPB). Hydrofluoric acid with different concentrations (10%, 20% and 40%) was used to corrode YSZ substrate to obtain large superficial area of TPB. The scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscopic images showed that the 40% HF could form the largest superficial area at the same corroding time (3h). The sensitivity of the sensor using the YSZ plate corroded with 40% hydrofluoric acid to 20–500ppm NO2 was 76mV/decade at 850°C, which was the largest among the examined HF concentrations. It was also seen that the sensor showed a good selectivity and speedy response kinetics to NO2. On the basis of the measurements of anodic and cathodic polarization curves, as well as the complex impedance of the device, the sensing mechanism was confirmed to involve a mixed potential at the oxide sensing electrode. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) is a multidomain protein that contains epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like repeats that indirectly activate the EGF receptor (EGFR) and selected downstream signaling pathways. In these studies, we show that TSP1 opens the paracellular pathway in human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC-Ls) in a dose-, time-, and protein tyrosine kinase (PTK)-dependent manner. TSP1 increased tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins enriched to intercellular boundaries including the zonula adherens (ZA) proteins, vascular endothelial-cadherin, γ-catenin, and p120 catenin. In HMVEC-Ls, EGFR and ErbB2 are expressed at low levels, and both heterodimerize and tyrosine autophosphorylate in response to TSP1. Prior EGFR-selective PTK inhibition with AG1478 or ErbB2-selective PTK inhibition with AG825 protected against TSP1-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of ZA proteins and barrier disruption. Preincubation of HMVEC-Ls with an EGFR ectodomain-blocking antibody also prevented TSP1-induced opening of the paracellular pathway. Therefore, in HMVEC-Ls, TSP1 increases tyrosine phosphorylation of ZA proteins and opens the paracellular pathway, in part, through EGFR/ErbB2 activation. Surprisingly, recombinant TSP1 EGF-like repeats 1-3 and the high-affinity EGFR ligands, EGF, TGF-α, and amphiregulin, each failed to increase paracellular permeability. However, HMVEC-Ls in which EGFR was overexpressed became responsive to the EGF-like repeats of TSP1 as well as to EGF. These studies indicate that TSP1 disrupts the endothelial barrier through EGFR/ErbB2 activation although additional signals are necessary in cells with low receptor expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The feruloyl esterase activity in different layers of Jiupei at different fermentation times were determined and tracked. • The microorganisms with feruloyl esterase activity were screened and identified in Jiupei of sesame-flavor baijiu. • The conditions of enzyme production were optimized by liquid fermentation. Baijiu is a national beverage in China. Some functional compounds have been identified in baijiu, one of which is ferulic acid. One route for in situ ferulic acid synthesis is catalysed by feruloyl esterase from microorganisms using baijiu raw materials as substrates. However, few studies have focused on microorganisms obtained from baijiu that have feruloyl esterase activity. In this work, microorganisms with feruloyl esterase activity were screened in the fermented raw materials of baijiu. Four different microorganisms with feruloyl esterase activity were identified, and one strain, designated J1, showed high feruloyl esterase activity. The strain J1 belonged to the genus Acetobacter and showed the closest relationship with Acetobacter fabarum and Acetobacter lovaniensis. The feruloyl esterase production capacity of J1 was confirmed, and the fermentation conditions were optimised. The optimal enzyme production conditions for the highest feruloyl esterase activity required an initial fermentation pH of 7.0 at 30 °C, an inoculation volume of 10 %, and culturing for 24 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanisms initiating and perpetuating the fibrogenic response in the injured liver are not well understood. Hepatic stellate cells are activated by liver injury to become proliferative and fibrogenic myofibroblasts. Emerging evidence suggests that the sympathetic nervous system may play a role in the development of cirrhosis. It is not known, however, whether this requires a direct interaction between sympathetic neurotransmitters and stellate cell receptors, or results indirectly, from sympathetic effects on the vasculature. Using cultured hepatic stellate cells, we show that the sympathetic neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and neuropeptide Y, markedly stimulate the proliferation of activated, myofibroblastic, hepatic stellate cells. Norepinephrine, but not neuropeptide Y, also induces collagen gene expression. In conclusion, physiologically relevant concentrations of sympathetic neurotransmitters directly modulate the phenotype of hepatic stellate cells. This suggests that targeted interruption of sympathetic nervous system signaling in hepatic stellate cells may be useful in constraining the fibrogenic response to liver injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The mechanisms that initiate and perpetuate the fibrogenic response, during liver injury, are unclear. Animal studies, however, strongly support a role for the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in wound healing. Therefore, the ANS may also mediate the development of cirrhosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSC), the liver’s major matrix-producing cells, are activated by injury to become proliferative, fibrogenic myofibroblasts. HSC respond to sympathetic neurotransmitters by changing phenotype, suggesting that HSC may be the cellular effectors of ANS signals that modulate hepatic fibrogenesis during recovery from liver damage. We show here that the parasympathetic neurotransmitter acetylcholine markedly stimulates the proliferation of myofibroblastic HSC and induces HSC collagen gene expression in these cells. By extending evidence that HSC are direct targets of the ANS, these results support the proposed neuroglial role of HSC in the liver and suggest that interrupting ANS signalling may be useful in constraining the fibrogenic response to liver injury. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background Doses of ethanol (EtOH) that are not overtly cytotoxic inhibit mitogen-induced hepatocyte proliferation and delay liver regeneration after 70% partial hepatectomy (PH). The mechanisms for this are poorly understood. This study evaluates the hypothesis that EtOH inhibits hepatocyte proliferation after PH by inducing redox-sensitive factors, such as p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and p21 (WAF1/CIP1), that protect cells from oxidative stress but prevent cell-cycle progression by inhibiting cyclin D1. Methods Mechanisms that regulate the transition from the prereplicative G1 phase of the cell cycle into S phase were compared in EtOH-fed mice and normal pair-fed mice after PH. Results Prior EtOH exposure significantly increases p38 MAPK and p21 after PH. This is accompanied by reduced expression of cyclin D1 messenger RNA and protein, increases in other cell-cycle regulators (such as signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 and p27) that are normally inhibited by cyclin D1, and hepatocyte G1 arrest. Conclusions EtOH amplifies G1 checkpoint mechanisms that are induced by oxidative stress and promotes hepatic accumulation of factors, including p38 MAPK, p21, and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3, that enhance cellular survival after oxidant exposure. Therefore, cell-cycle inhibition may be an adaptive response that helps EtOH-exposed livers survive situations, such as PH, that acutely increase reactive oxygen species in hepatocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which determined whether fatty liver vulnerability to lipopolysaccharide damage occurs due to upregulated protective, antiapoptotic mechanisms. Background on liver diseases; Materials and methods; Results and discussion.

To enhance waste straw utilization and improve fertilizer efficiency, a novel semi-interpenetrating polymer network fertilizer (CMCK-g-PAA/PDMUP) was prepared from straw cellulose and linear polymer by solution polymerization. Polydihydroxymethyl-urea potassium phosphate (PDMUP) was included to supply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients. Characterization of CMCK-g-PAA/PDMUP with FTIR, XPS, XRD, and SEM techniques provided evidence for semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) and component interactions. The prepared product exhibited excellent water absorbency (681.3 g/g) and enhanced the soil's water-retention capacity. Cumulative release of N, P, and K was 56.1%, 64.3%, and 74.1%, respectively, after 40 days–meeting a Committee of European Normalization (CEN) standard. Agricultural application of CMCK-g-PAA/PDMUP promoted wheat growth. Desirable water retention, slow-release properties, and wheat growth effects highlight the product's potential for improving agriculture. Unlabelled Image • Application of the polymer (CMCK-g-PAA/PDMUP) could achieve utilization of waste straw. • The CMCK-g-PAA/PDMUP is derived from waste straw and rich in fertilizers (N, P and K). • The product had excellent water retention and slow-release properties. • The product prepared by waste straw can reduces production cost and promote plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the influence of space weather, abnormal disturbances in the ionosphere will distort the ionosphere model seriously and affect the global navigation satellite system negatively. This study analyzes the ionospheric activity characteristics and the ionospheric model performance in low latitude during a strong geomagnetic storm from 7 to 9 September 2017. The research goals are to determine the abnormal behavior of the ionosphere during the geomagnetic storm and to refine the ionosphere model in the low latitude. In the experiment, the vertical total electron content (VTEC) peak value at low latitudes caused by this geomagnetic storm was significantly higher than that on the geomagnetic quiet day, and the VTEC peak value increased by approximately 75%. In the main phase of the geomagnetic storm, the degree of VTEC variation with longitude is significantly higher than that of the geomagnetic quiet day. The VTEC variation trend in the northern hemisphere is more severe than that in the southern hemisphere. In the region where VTEC decreases with longitude, the VTEC in the northern hemisphere is higher than that in the southern hemisphere on the same longitude at low latitudes, and this phenomenon is not significantly affected by the geomagnetic disturbance of the recovery phase. During the geomagnetic storm, the daily minimum value of VTEC at different latitudes was basically the same, approximately 5 TECU, indicating that the nighttime VTEC of the ionosphere in low latitudes was weakly affected by latitude and geomagnetic storms. Geomagnetic disturbances during geomagnetic storms will lead to anomalous features of the "Fountain effect" in the ionosphere at low latitudes. In addition, this geomagnetic storm event caused the accuracy of spherical harmonics (SH), polynomial, and ICE models to decrease by 7.12%, 27.87%, and 48.56%, respectively, and caused serious distortion, which is negative VTEC values fitted by the polynomial model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, research on the small-signal stability of grid-forming converters under two control modes, grid-following and grid-forming, mainly focuses on low-level converters. However, studies on the differences between grid-following modular multilevel converters (MMC) and grid-forming MMC are limited. A comprehensive analysis of the wideband oscillation risk differences in MMC-HVDC systems under these two control modes from the perspective of impedance characteristics is necessary. Therefore, based on the harmonic state-space (HSS) modeling theory, this article establishes wideband sequence impedance models for grid-forming and grid-following MMC. Subsequently, this article identifies key control parameters affecting the impedance characteristics of MMC under two control modes. The wideband oscillation risks of MMC-HVDC systems under both control modes are compared. The study indicates that when the grid strength weakens, grid-following MMC faces instability risks, while grid-forming MMC can maintain stability. In instances where high-frequency resonance peaks exist in the impedance of the grid, both control modes of MMC may face instability risks. Furthermore, by adjusting the obtained key control parameters of MMC, this article effectively suppresses the oscillation risk discussed above. Finally, the analysis results are verified through an electromagnetic transient simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrocarbons with four carbons in their molecular structure (C4s) represent an important chemical family in the modern petrochemical industry. Converting less valuable C4s into more valuable C4s with effective separation has been of significant industrial interest. The large variety of C4s leads to a complex reaction pathway network. Prior work carried out on C4 modelling and optimisation has been largely industry-focussed with limited studies found in academic publications. This work aims to bridge the research gap by developing a systematic methodology that can identify the optimal process pathways for maximum economic return. A superstructure network is developed, showing comprehensive pathways for C4 processing. Mathematical programming is applied to model the superstructure with individual processing units, in which simplified process models used in the network model can be supported by detailed process models. Optimisation is implemented in GAMS, the results of which help gain important physical insights into the best options for C4 processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-stage process has been developed for the pyrolysis of high-density polyethylene to obtain light olefins, where probable mechanisms for each stage pyrolysis were proposed in our previous study. This work aims to establish molecular-level kinetic models for the first-stage pyrolysis at a lower temperature and for the second-stage pyrolysis at a higher temperature, respectively, to predict the overall reaction performances in accordance to the role of detailed mechanisms. A structure-oriented lumping (SOL) method based molecular-level kinetic model can effectively describe the first-stage pyrolysis, while a detailed molecular-level kinetic model is developed for the second-stage pyrolysis to track the evolutions of all alkanes, olefins, and diolefins, with special focus on the formation of light olefins. The established separate models can achieve the automatic generation of complex reaction networks and present good agreement with experimental data obtained from the first- and second-stage. In addition, the first-stage model indicates that the random scission plays an important role in the pyrolysis process at lower temperatures, while the chain-end scission mechanism dominates the second-stage reaction to produce light olefins at higher temperatures. As a whole, the molecular-level modelling scheme behaves excellently at a wide range of temperature, which provides guidance for upgrading the pyrolysis process. • A molecular level kinetic model is established for the two-stage HDPE pyrolysis. • The reaction network is generated automatically and visualized. • This model achieves excellent agreement with experimental data. • The competition of two scissions and important role of temperature are quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The onset and termination electric potential to form the steady cone-jet electrospray increase as conductivity increasing. • The lower and upper limitation of liquid flowrate to form the steady cone-jet electrospray decrease as conductivity increases. • The varicose instability can transform into whipping instability as the electrical conductivity increasing. • The jet breakup instability transition mechanism is interpreted by theoretical analysis. • The whipping to similar micro-dripping instability can be observed for EG with higher conductivity. In present work, the effect of the electrical conductivity on the steady cone-jet electrospray are experimentally investigated, where the operating diagram and the jet breakup instability are extensively examined. A hemispherical tube is employed as spraying nozzle severed as high electric potential electrode in a needle-plated electrode configuration compared to the common and sheathed tubes. The cone-jet electrospray is visualized by a high-resolution camera and extensively analyzed offline. The aqueous solution in ethanol, Diethyleneglycol (DEG) and Ethylene glycol (EG) are atomized with varied electrical conductivity under different high electric potentials and flowrates. Experimental results indicate that the cone-jet electrospray can operate in the certain ranges of operating parameter for all types of capillaries. The operating diagram for the hemispherical tube is significantly broader than other tubes because of various electric field strength distribution. The onset electric potential to determine a steady cone-jet electrospray gradually increases and the termination value also increases as the electrical conductivity increases. The lower and upper flowrate to form a steady cone-jet electrospray also increase as the electrical conductivity increases. The jet breakup instability can transit from varicose to whipping due to low the reference flow rate as electrical conductivity increases, which is agreement with theoretical analysis. In particular, for EG, the transition from whipping to similar micro-dripping is observed as the electrical conductivity increases, while the transition also occurs as flowrate increases for EG with higher electrical conductivity. The increase in the electrical conductivity and flowrate elongates the cone due to EHD body force, which causes the electric field varying, further resulting in the difference in jet breakup instability. Moreover, the electrical conductivity also plays an important role in jet breakup length. The instability variation of jet with conductivity (DEG), q V =1000 nL/s, ϕ =8.00 kV (Hemispherical nozzle with D o =0.70mm); The variation with liquid flow rate of EG with higher conductivity (K =8.5 × 10−4 s/m, ϕ =10.20 kV, (Hemispherical nozzle with D o =0.70mm) [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate measurements of the three-dimensional structure characteristics of urban buildings and their greenhouse effect are important for evaluating the impact of urbanization on the radiation energy budget and research on the urban heat island (UHI) effect. The decrease in evapotranspiration or the increase in sensible heat caused by urbanization is considered to be the main cause of the UHI effect, but little is known about the influence of the main factor "net radiant flux" of the urban surface heat balance. In this study, experimental observation and quantitative model simulation were used to find that with the increase of building surface area after urbanization, the direct solar radiation flux and net radiation flux on building surface areas changed significantly. In order to accurately quantify the relationship between the positive and negative effects, this study puts forward the equivalent calculation principle of "aggregation element", which is composed of a building's sunny face and its shadow face, and the algorithm of the contribution of the area to thermal effect. This research clarifies the greenhouse effect of a building with walls of glass windows. Research shows that when the difference between absorption rates of a concrete wall and grass is −0.21, the cooling effect is shown. In the case of concrete walls with glass windows, the difference between absorption rates of a building wall and grass is −0.11, which is also a cooling effect. The greenhouse effect value of a building with glass windows reduces the cooling effect value to 56% of the effect of a building with concrete walls. The simulation of changes in net radiant flux and flux density shows that the greenhouse effect of a 5-story building with windows yields 15.5% less cooling effect than one with concrete walls, and a 30-story building with windows reduces the cooling effect by 23.0%. The simulation results confirmed that the difference in the equivalent absorption rate of the aggregation element is the "director" of cooling and heating effects, and the area of the aggregation element is the "amplifier" of cooling and heating effects. At the same time, the simulation results prove the greenhouse effect of glass windows, which significantly reduces the cold effect of concrete wall buildings. The model reveals the real contribution of optimized urban design to mitigating UHI and building a comfortable environment where there is no atmospheric circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is one of the most successful crops with regard to the utilization of heterosis. The haploid induction technique is one of the fastest methods to obtain pure maize material at the present stage. However, the molecular mechanism of haploid doubling is rarely reported. In this study, we treated B73 and ZNC442 haploid young shoots with colchicine for 0 h, 6.2 h, and 10 h, and analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). We found that colchicine treatment for 6.2 h and 10 h compared to 0 h resulted in a total of 4868 co-DEGs. GO enrichment analysis and KEGG metabolic pathway analysis found significantly enriched 282 GO terms and 31 significantly pathways, respectively. Additionally, The GO term and KEGG pathway genes of spindle, cytoskeleton, microtubules and nuclear division were selected for analysis, and three candidate genes were screened by taking intersections. Zm00001d033112, Zm00001d010525, and Zm00001d043386 were annotated as kinesin-associated protein 13, kinesin-like protein KIN-10C, and kinesin light-chain LC6, respectively. The real-time fluorescence quantification (RT-PCR) results revealed that Zm00001d033112, Zm00001d010525, and Zm00001d043386 had the same trends as RNA-seq. Interestingly, Zm00001d033112 is homologous gene AT3G20150 in Arabidopsis, which was involved in the regulation of chromosome movement and mitotic spindle assembly. Our study suggests that kinesin genes may play an important role in doubling chromosomes, thus providing valuable information for future studies on the molecular mechanisms of chromosome doubling in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) is an important strategic area in China. However, frequent extreme precipitation events have caused great economic losses and human casualties in this region. In this article, we explore the spatial and temporal links between extreme precipitation events and Sunspot Number (SSN), El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Arctic Oscillation (AO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) in this important economic belt. According to the research findings, all of the extreme precipitation indices (EPIs) except for consecutive dry days (CDD) and consecutive wet days (CWD) showed an upward trend in the YREB over the 59 years. The spatial distributions of very wet days (R95p), extremely wet days (R99p), max 1-day precipitation amount (Rx1day) and max 5-day precipitation amount (Rx5day) had similar distribution patterns, showing decreasing trends from east to west. The EPIs generally had a 2–4-year band, suggesting stronger and more elusive changes. The wavelet coherence (WTC) spectra suggested that SSN, ENSO, AO, and PDO have different effects on extreme precipitation events during different time periods. Before 1985, the SSN, ENSO, AO, PDO and extreme precipitation events shared similar oscillation periods, but after 1985, their oscillation periods were no longer consistent with each other. In addition, solar activity and the AO mainly had negative correlations with extreme precipitation events, while the ENSO and PDO had predominantly positive correlations with the EPIs. This paper provides a reference for national economic strategic planning and natural resource management in the YREB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • FeNi nanoalloys were encapsulated in graphitic carbon nanofibers derived from Prussian blue analogue (PBA). • Limited oxidation and aggregation of FeNi nanoalloys in CNF were obtained by changing PBAs loading. • Synergistic effect between non-noble plasmonic nanoalloys and graphitic carbon nanofibers was constructed by electrospinning. • Optimized photothermal conversion efficiency was reached by the constructed composited fiber membrane. • A extremely low usage dosage of photothermal materials can enable the construction of 2D evaporation membrane. Sustainable and energy-efficient water purification by harnessing solar energy is critical to tackling the challenges of water scarcity and the on-going water pollution crisis. Nevertheless, the biggest challenge to the practical deployment of solar-driven water purification, however, continues to be the poor solar evaporation efficiency of materials. Herein, FeNi nanoalloys encapsulated in graphitic carbon nanofibers (FeNi 3 /CNF) using Prussian blue analogue (PBAs) derivatives were fabricated using electrospinning and carbonization. The PBAs metal precursors play a critical role in encapsulating and safeguarding the FeNi alloy nanostructures from oxidation and agglomeration challenges. Furthermore, the synergistic effects between the non-noble hybrid plasmonic nanoalloys and graphitic CNFs can be constructed and optimized from the mass loading of PBAs precursor. Benefiting from the broad solar absorption band, high specific surface area, abundant micro-mesopores, and well-organized interlayer channel, the resultant 2D FeNi 3 /CNF solar evaporator demonstrates an efficient water evaporation rate of 1.51 kg m-2h−1 with an outstanding solar evaporation efficiency of 93.3 % under one sun irradiation, among the best values reported thus far. Impressively, the resultant 2D FeNi 3 /CNF solar evaporator can be constructed using only 0.02 kg m−2 loading of photothermal materials without compromising evaporation performance, which highlights its cost-efficiency in the practical application. Furthermore, the desalinated water meets the drinking standards of the World Health Organization (WHO) with an efficient 99 % separation of multiple organic industrial dye pollutants. Hence, this work demonstrates an efficient cost-effective approach to novel non-noble plasmonic alloy-based metal–carbon composites for enhanced solar-driven interfacial evaporation and wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant breakthroughs in the theory and applications of ferrofluid have broadened their usage in areas such as sealing and actuation. However, the development of numerical ferrofluid dynamics has been slow owing to inadequate multi-field coupling techniques and incomplete equations for turbulence in ferrofluid flow. The understanding of low-Reynolds-number turbulent flow mechanisms in ferrofluid at small scales, particularly in sealing and actuation applications, remains limited, therefore hindering further advancements. This article delves into the turbulent flow equations for general fluid and discusses the influence of different-scale vortices on the average fluid motion. An anisotropic turbulence model was introduced and verified using fluid flow around a cylinder. Magnetic and flow fields data were coupled through node ranking and interpolation methods. By introducing the interaction force of magnetic dipoles, the turbulent equations were refined within Euler grids, thereby establishing a numerical model for the turbulent motion of ferrofluids influenced by multiple fields. This model was applied to study the deformation and migration processes of ferrofluid under an external magnetic field. The variations in ferrofluid motion under magnetic forces were encapsulated, and macroscopic flow comparisons were made through experiments, which demonstrated good consistency. This research provides new methods and ideas for use in ferrofluid numerical studies. Additionally, it offers valuable technical support that can aid in developing industrial products such as sealing and driving devices based on ferrofluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing production technology pathways of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) that align with China's national conditions and aviation transportation needs is crucial for promoting the SAF industry and achieving China's carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals. This article first projects the future SAF demand in China for the coming decades. Using SAF demand data as an input, this article employs the TOPSIS analysis method to comprehensively evaluate the suitability of four SAF production technology pathways at different stages of development in China, which are Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA), Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ), Natural Gas + Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis (G + FT), and Power-to-Liquid (PtL). The research results reveal the following trends: HEFA-based processes are the most suitable technology pathways for China in the near term; the G + FT route, based on energy crops, appears the most likely to support civil aviation needs in the medium to long term. In the long run, the PtL route holds significant potential, especially with the decreasing costs of green electricity, advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology, and improvements in SAF synthesis methods. In the final section of this article, we provide recommendations to drive the development of the SAF industry in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are common in older adults and are associated with cognitive decline. However, little is known about the functional changes underlying cognitive decline in WMH subjects.Objectives: To investigate whole-brain functional connectivity (FC) underpinnings of cognitive decline in WMH subjects using univariate and multivariate analyses.Methods: Twenty-three WMH subjects with mild cognitive impairment (WMH-MCI), 43 WMH subjects with no cognitive impairment (WMH-nCI), and 55 healthy controls underwent resting-state functional MRI scans. Whole-brain FC was calculated using the fine-grained human Brainnetome Atlas, followed by performance of between-group comparisons and FC-cognition correlation analysis. A multivariate analysis using support vector machine (SVM) was performed to classify WMH-MCI and WMH-nCI subjects based on FC.Results: Both the WMH-MCI and WMH-nCI subjects exhibited characteristic impaired FC patterns. Markedly reduced FC involving subcortical nuclei and cortical hub regions of cognitive networks, especially the cingulate cortex, was identified in the WMH-MCI patients. In the WMH-MCI group, several connections involving the cingulate cortex were associated with cognitive decline. The exploratory mediation analyses indicated that FC alterations could partially explain the association between WMH and cognition. Furthermore, an SVM classifier based on FC distinguished WMH-MCI and WMH-nCI subjects with 78.8% accuracy. Connections that contributed most to the classification showed a similar distribution as the connections identified in the univariate analysis.Conclusions: This study provides a new window into the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment in WMH subjects and offer a novel and potential approach for early detection of the cognitive impairment in WMH subjects at the individual level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of heavy metals is extremely serious in China, including zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd). Heavy-metal-transporting ATPase (HMA) belongs to a subfamily of the P-ATPase family, which absorbs and transports Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd in plants. Here, we describe a ZmHMA-encoding HMA family protein that positively regulates Cd and Zn tolerance. The real-time fluorescence quantification (RT-PCR) results revealed that ZmHMA3 had a high expression in B73, and the expression of ZmHMA3 was sensitive to Cd in yeast cells, which was related to Cd accumulation in yeast. Additionally, the Arabidopsis thaliana homologous mutants of AtHMA2 showed Cd sensitivity compared with WT. The overexpressing ZmHMA3 plants showed higher tolerance under Cd and Zn stresses than the wild type. The overexpression of ZmHMA3 led to higher Cd and Zn accumulation in tissues based on the subcellular distribution analysis. We propose that ZmHMA3 improves maize tolerance to Cd and Zn stresses by absorbing and transporting Cd and Zn ions. This study elucidates the gene function of the ZmHMA3 response to Cd and Zn stress and provides a reference for improving the characteristics of heavy metals enrichment in existing maize varieties and the plant remediation technology of heavy-metal-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste plastics have emerged as a global environmental issue. Polyethylene, accounting for about 25% of global plastic production, has been acknowledged as the major cause of "white pollution". In this paper, a generalized molecular-level kinetic model was proposed to understand the pyrolysis of polyethylene applying structure-oriented lumping, Poisson distribution, and genetic algorithm. The number of ordinary differential equations derived from the reaction kinetics were dramatically reduced by this simplified network with 14-rule design. The generalizability was confirmed by case studies without any change in the rule design. Under most conditions, the mean relative error between experimental and model data could be controlled within 5%, while abnormal deviations indicate the obstacle of heat transfer. The simulation curve could provide guidance for the experiments by locating the peak value of products. From 400–470 °C in Case 2, the increase in the reaction proportion of producing light oil explains the experimental results from the perspective of molecular-level reaction network. The comparison between PE and PS pyrolysis elaborates different pyrolysis mechanisms based on the different molecular structures. • Established a generalized molecular-level model for polyethylene pyrolysis. • Offered an efficient tool avoiding repeated work in pyrolysis simulation. • Confirmed the generalizability by case studies without changing the rule design. • Provided guidance for the experiments by locating the peak value of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of waste plastics has been one of the most urgent and difficult environmental challenges. In this work, the pyrolysis of polyethylene (PE) has been studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), pyrolysis/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (PyGC-MS), and a two-stage tube reactor. The pyrolysis behavior of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is compared, and there are almost no differences in the thermogravimetric curves obtained by TGA and the yield of gaseous products obtained in a two-stage process. The evolution of light olefins (C 2 –C 4) during the pyrolysis of PE is investigated in a two-stage process with a constant condition in the first stage (500 °C) and various conditions in the second stage (700–1000 °C, 0.2–0.4 s). The temperature in the second stage has a more significant effect on the yield and selectivity of light olefins than the residence time, and the ethylene, propylene, and butene yields do not increase monotonously as the temperature rises. The highest yield of light olefins of 76.1 wt% is obtained at 800 °C with a selectivity of 91.7%. The maximum yields of ethylene, propylene, and butene are 45.1 wt%, 17.3 wt%, and 24.3 wt%, respectively. The scission mechanisms are proposed to provide insight into the process during which PE molecules transform into light olefins. • There are almost no differences between the pyrolysis characteristics of high-density and low-density polyethylene. • The evolution of light olefins during the polyethylene pyrolysis is investigated by PyGC-MS and a two-stage tube reactor. • A high yield of light olefins of 76.1 wt% with a high selectivity of 91.7% is obtained at 800 °C. • Probable mechanisms for two-stage pyrolysis of PE are proposed to reveal the interplay of reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accuracy of insulators and their defect identification by UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) in transmission-line inspection needs to be further improved, and the model size of the detection algorithm is significantly reduced to make it more suitable for edge-end deployment. In this paper, the algorithm uses a lightweight GhostNet module to reconstruct the backbone feature extraction network of the YOLOv4 model and employs depthwise separable convolution in the feature fusion layer. The model is lighter on the premise of ensuring the effect of image information extraction. Meanwhile, the ECA-Net channel attention mechanism is embedded into the feature extraction layer and PANet (Path Aggregation Network) to improve the recognition accuracy of the model for small targets. The experimental results show that the size of the improved model is reduced from 244 MB to 42 MB, which is only 17.3% of the original model. At the same time, the mAp of the improved model is 0.77% higher than that of the original model, reaching 95.4%. Moreover, the mAP compared with YOLOv5-s and YOLOX-s, respectively, is improved by 1.98% and 1.29%. Finally, the improved model is deployed into Jetson Xavier NX and run at a speed of 8.8 FPS, which is 4.3 FPS faster than the original model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing proportion of renewable power generations in the power system, the power grid impedance may fluctuate greatly, and it is difficult for the virtual synchronous generator (VSG) with a single control structure to meet the stability requirements. Thus, the control principles of the two types of VSGs are compared to conclude that there are similarities in the control structure of the two VSGs. And the small signal models of the two types of VSGs are established to analyze the stability boundaries, coming to the conclusion that the stability region is complementary. Based on the conclusions, the paper puts forward the idea of switching operation modes: switch to the U‐VSG mode when the grid strength weakens and switch to the PQ‐VSG mode when greater, so that the inverter can keep stable in a wider range of grid strength. Therefore, the characterization method of the switching boundary with hysteresis properties is proposed. Then the improved recursive least squares (RLS) algorithm is introduced to identify the power grid impedance online without additional injected disturbance, based on which the adaptive multi‐mode smooth switching control strategy is proposed. Finally, the effectiveness of the analysis and the control strategy are verified by simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-energy lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been actively pursued for practical applications in advanced electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems. The silicon (Si) material has been considered as a promising anode candidate due to its impressive lithium storage capacity, but is facing the challenge to ameliorate its cycling and rate performance. We here report a structure integration strategy to overcome major issues of poor capacity retention and slow kinetics during the lithium storage of Si anode, through in situ embedding Si nanoparticles into V 2 C MXene nanosheets. The MXene-supported Si@V 2 C nanocomposite anode reveals significantly enhanced cycling stability and improved lithium storage kinetics compared to that of the pristine Si anode. A high capacity exceeding to 430 mAh g−1 can be retained for 150 cycles at 200 mA g−1 current density. In addition, the conductive MXene supporter has been demonstrated to facilitate lithiation/delithiation processes for the Si by enhancing the charge transfer kinetics, as it is demonstrated by in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) and Galvanostatic Intermittent Titration Technique (GITT) measurements. Findings from this work may inspire feasible structural designs for the practical deployment of MXene composited Si anode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. [Display omitted] • Si@V 2 C composite anode was explored using V 2 C MXene as supporting substrate with enhanced Si stability performance. • A high capacity of 430 mAh g−1 can be retained for 150 cycles at 200 mA g−1 current density. • The V 2 C MXene can provide improved electronic conductivity and structural support of the Si anode during cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]