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NiOx is one of the promising inorganic hole transporting materials in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs), however, its device efficiency and stability are still limited by the energy level mismatch, low intrinsic conductivity, high interface defect density, and complex active species. Herein, the use of an imide‐based donor–acceptor type semiconductor (BTF14) as the interlayer between perovskite and NiOx is proposed, which facilitates the hole extraction and transfer, reduces the defect density at interface and in perovskite film bulk, and further reduces the concentration of Ni>3+ species to stabilize the heterointerface. As a result, the power conversion efficiency of inverted PSCs can be significantly boosted from 22.11% of NiOx to 24.20% of NiOx/BTF14. Moreover, NiOx/BTF14 based devices also exhibit negligible hysteresis and excellent long‐term stability, with over 77% of their initial efficiency remaining after continuous operation at 60 °C for 1000 h under 1 sun illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency, health and lifetime of vehicle-mounted fuel cells highly rely on the oxygen excess ratio (OER). Faced with urgent research limitations, this article tackles the estimation and regulation for immeasurable OER, while suppressing the influences of dramatic stack current, uncertain system information, actuator saturation and performance constraint. Restricted by high cost and measurement difficulty, two fixed-time adaptive observers are proposed to rebuild unavailable OER and lumped disturbance respectively, which eliminate the dependence of estimation time on initial states and alleviate the peaking issue. Further, a fixed-time prescribed performance controller is developed to elevate the tracking performance for the estimated OER, in which the overshoot, regulation time and convergence region can be quantitatively constrained, regardless of initial conditions. Specially, to exclude undesired control singularity, an improved performance function is established to automatically adjust the predefined constraint boundaries depending on the captured variations of stack current and anti-saturation auxiliary signal. The hardware-in-loop validation results under custom working conditions and a typical vehicle driving cycle exhibit that the estimation and regulation of OER reach stability within 0.2s and 1s respectively, besides, the maximum absolute errors in observing and controlling the OER are limited to around 0.6 and 0.8 respectively, with great adaptability to different scenarios. • The oxygen excess ratio (OER) is rebuilt at a faster speed and a smaller peak. • An enhanced controller to regulate the OER within user-defined dynamic bounds. • Lumped disturbance, input saturation and singularity avoidance are handled. • Hardware-in-loop tests and comparisons verify the superiority and robustness. • The estimation and tracking of OER reach stability within 0.2s and 1s respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gain-driven emission in gain–loss coupling systems attains significant interest. In this work, we study the monochromatic oscillation of a gain–loss coupling system through a circuit model, where the monochromacy is manifested as the gain-driven synchronization of two coupled oscillators. The synchronized oscillation in this model is theoretically studied and experimentally manifested. Benefiting from the conceptual simplicity of a circuit model, a pair of asymmetric long-living states is found among the unstable gain-driven monochromatic oscillations, corresponding to bound states in the continuum of coupling physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low phase noise oscillators are key building blocks of many high-end microwave systems. This work introduces a phase noise reduction mechanism through a gain driven polariton platform, where coherent coupling is used to suppress frequency distribution around the carrier, effectively reducing the phase noise. The design process for achieving low phase noise performance is outlined, and three prototypes are constructed, all of which feature key components, such as gain-embedded planar microwave cavity, yttrium iron garnet, and magnets. In particular, the first prototype is used to showcase the phase noise reduction mechanism, while the second prototype, a fixed-frequency oscillator working at 3.544 GHz, exhibits phase noise levels of −117 and −132 dBc/Hz at 10 and 100 kHz offset frequencies, respectively. The third prototype offers a tuning range from 2.1 to 2.7 GHz, while maintaining phase noise levels comparable to the second prototype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxygen stoichiometry (OS) and stack temperature (ST) significantly affect the output performance and durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. This paper investigates the prescribed performance tracking control strategy of OS and ST under external disturbances, modeling errors, actuators faults and limited communication resources. The total disturbances are compensated by a variable-bandwidth extended state observer to simplify the control design and enhance the system robustness. To tolerate excessive disturbances and relax the strict requirement on the initial conditions, a new event-triggered adaptive sliding mode controller that integrates modified dynamic performance constraints and nonsingular error transformation is developed to ensure the user-designed transient and steady-state performance constraints, while saving the communication costs and avoiding the chattering and jump in control signals. The numerical validation results under combined working scenarios indicate that the proposed controller always ensures the preset error constraints and possesses superior performance in tracking the optimal OS value 2 and the optimal ST value 353.15K than other three representative controllers, with the integral absolute errors of 0.732 for OS tracking and 12.94 for ST tracking; besides, it achieves satisfactory robustness to uncertain model parameters and relatively large initial tracking errors. [Display omitted] • A robust event-triggered prescribed performance controller for PEM fuel cell systems. • Oxygen stoichiometry (OS) and stack temperature (ST) are simultaneously controlled. • Integral absolute errors when tracking OS and ST are 0.732 and 12.94 respectively. • A better compromise between control performance and communication cost. • The chattering and jump phenomena in control signals are suppressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cells constantly sense and respond to not only biochemical but also biomechanical changes in their microenvironment, demanding for dynamic metabolic adaptation. ECM stiffening is a hallmark of cancer aggressiveness, while survival under substrate detachment also associates with poor prognosis. Mechanisms underlying this, non‐linear mechano‐response of tumor cells may reveal potential double‐hit targets for cancers. Here, an integrin‐GSK3β‐FTO‐mTOR axis is reported, that can integrate stiffness sensing to ensure both the growth advantage endowed by rigid substrate and cell death resistance under matrix detachment. It is demonstrated that substrate stiffening can activate mTORC1 and elevate mTOR level through integrins and GSK3β‐FTO mediated mRNA m6A modification, promoting anabolic metabolism. Inhibition of this axis upon ECM detachment enhances autophagy, which in turn conveys resilience of tumor cells to anoikis, as it is demonstrated in human breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and mice malignant ascites. Collectively, these results highlight the biphasic mechano‐regulation of cellular metabolism, with implications in tumor growth under stiffened conditions such as fibrosis, as well as in anoikis‐resistance during cancer metastasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In pig production, pigs often show more aggressive behavior after mixing, which adversely affects animal welfare and growth performance. The Jumonji and structural domain-rich AT interaction domain 2 (JARID2) gene plays an important role in neurodevelopment in mice and various psychiatric disorders in humans. The JARID2 gene may impact the aggressive behavior of pigs. By observing the behavior of 500 weaned pigs during the first 72 h after mixing, the ear tissue samples of the 12 most aggressive and 12 least aggressive pigs were selected for DNA resequencing based on the intensity of their aggressive behavior. Large group correlation analysis indicated that the rs3262221458 site located in the 3′-UTR region of the porcine JARID2 gene has a strong relationship with the aggressive behavior of weaned pigs. Pigs with the mutant TT genotype of rs3262221458 have more aggressive behavior than those pigs with the GG and GT genotypes. The dual luciferase assay indicated that the luciferase activity of the plasmids containing the G allele of rs326221458 was significantly less than that of plasmids containing the T allele of rs326221458 and control groups. The binding ability of miR-9828-3p to sequences containing the T allele was less than that of sequences containing the G allele. The overexpression of miR-9828-3p in porcine neuroglial cells (PNGCs) and PK15 cells significantly decreased the mRNA and protein levels of the JARID2 gene. In addition, miR-9828-3p inhibited the proliferation of PNGCs. After inhibiting miR-9828-3p, the mRNA and protein expression levels of JARID2 increased, and the proliferation of PNGCs showed an opposite trend to the cells that forced the expression of miR-9828-3p. In addition, interference with the JARID2 gene by siRNA can effectively inhibit the proliferation of PNGCs. In summary, we found that the rs326221458 locus regulates the expression of the JARID2 gene by affecting the binding of miR-9828-3p and the JARID2 gene, thereby affecting the aggressive behavior of weaned pigs after mixing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the mechanical characteristics of cemented tailings backfill (CTB) and quickly identifying its damage state under external loading, this study compares and prepares CTB specimens without fiber, doped with polypropylene fiber (PF), doped with glass fiber (BL), and doped with polypropylene and glass blended fiber (PB). Uniaxial compression and acoustic emission (AE) monitoring experiments are also conducted. Based on the cumulative energy of AE, the damage ontology model of CTB was developed. As shown by the study's findings, adding various fibers can greatly enhance the filler body's uniaxial compressive strength (UCS). BL has the greatest effect, followed by PB, while PFs have the least effect. Furthermore, the fibers primarily prevent the growth of crack extension by extending or breaking themselves, The results of the tests on acoustic emission revealed that the fiberless filler's signals were more active prior to the peak point and less intense in the later stages of the damage, whereas the fiber-doped filler's signals began to increase following the peak point and remained high. Thus, the damage model curves of various fiber-filled bodies are constructed based on the cumulative energy of acoustic emission, and the experimental data verification shows that the two have good consistency, suggesting that the established theoretical model can serve as a basis of reference for assessing the filled bodies' damage state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copy number variation (CNV) represents a significant reservoir of genetic diversity within the genome and exhibits a strong association with economically valuable traits in livestock. The manifestation of aggressive behavior in pigs has detrimental effects on production efficiency, immune competency, and meat quality. Nevertheless, the impact of CNV on the aggressive behavior of pigs remains elusive. In this investigation, we employed an integrated analysis of genome and transcriptome data to investigate the interplay between CNV, gene expression changes, and indicators of aggressive behavior in weaned pigs. Specifically, a subset of pigs comprising the most aggressive pigs (MAP, n = 12) and the least aggressive pigs (LAP, n = 11) was purposefully selected from a herd of 500 weaned pigs following a mixing procedure based on their composite aggressive score (CAS). Subsequently, we thoroughly analyzed copy number variation regions (CNVRs) across the entire genome using next-generation sequencing techniques, ultimately revealing the presence of 6869 CNVRs. Using genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis and evaluating variance-stabilizing transformation (VST) values, we successfully identified distinct CNVRs that distinguished the MAP and LAP counterparts. Among the prioritized CNVRs, CNVR-4962 (designated as the top-ranked p-value and VST value, No. 1) was located within the Solute Carrier Organic Anion Transporter Family Member 3A1 (SLCO3A1) gene. The results of our analyses indicated a significantly higher (p < 0.05) copy number of SLCO3A1 in the MAP compared to the LAP. Furthermore, this increased copy number exhibited a positive correlation with the CAS of the pigs (p < 0.05). Furthermore, we integrated genomic data with transcriptomic data from the temporal lobe to facilitate the examination of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL). Importantly, these observations were consistent with the mRNA expression pattern of SLCO3A1 in the temporal lobe of both MAP and LAP (p < 0.05). Consequently, our findings strongly suggest that CNVs affecting SLCO3A1 may influence gene expression through a dosage effect. These results highlight the potential of SLCO3A1 as a candidate gene associated with aggressive traits in pig breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aid of an electronic universal testing machine and a scanning electron microscope, uniaxial compression tests and microscopic examinations of cemented tailings backfill with mixed fibers were carried out in order to investigate the impact of mixing steel fiber (SF) and polypropylene fiber (PF) on the static mechanical properties and failure mode. The findings demonstrate that; the inclusion of hybrid fiber has a substantial impact on the failure mode of the backfill; the CTB is mostly damaged by single bevel shear, displaying an evident brittle failure;the SP-FRB is primarily damaged by relatively minor secondary cracks due to the bridging and crack-resisting action of internal fibers; and the specimen is fractured as a whole,demonstrating an obvious ductile deformation; The addition of hybrid fiber can increase the filler s uniaxial compressive strength,but there is a maximum amount that should be used. The stress-strain curves of both CTB and SP-FRB contain four stages: pore compaction, linear elastic deformation, plastic yield,and post-failure. The results of the microscopic tests indicate that the initial pore size and number inside the filler are significant factors in its failure. Steel fiber and polypropylene fiber can both maintain high integrity inside the filler and prevent crack expansion through adhesion with the matrix and their own fatigue fracture, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most general malignant tumors. Ferroptosis, a type of necrotic cell death that is oxidative and iron-dependent, has a strong correlation with the development of tumors and the progression of cancer. The present study was designed to identify potential diagnostic Ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) using machine learning. From GEO datasets, two publicly available gene expression profiles (GSE65372 and GSE84402) from HCC and nontumor tissues were retrieved. The GSE65372 database was used to screen for FRGs with differential expression between HCC cases and nontumor specimens. Following this, a pathway enrichment analysis of FRGs was carried out. In order to locate potential biomarkers, an analysis using the support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) model and the LASSO regression model were carried out. The levels of the novel biomarkers were validated further using data from the GSE84402 dataset and the TCGA datasets. In this study, 40 of 237 FRGs exhibited a dysregulated level between HCC specimens and nontumor specimens from GSE65372, including 27 increased and 13 decreased genes. The results of KEGG assays indicated that the 40 differential expressed FRGs were mainly enriched in the longevity regulating pathway, AMPK signaling pathway, the mTOR signaling pathway, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Subsequently, HSPB1, CDKN2A, LPIN1, MTDH, DCAF7, TRIM26, PIR, BCAT2, EZH2, and ADAMTS13 were identified as potential diagnostic biomarkers. ROC assays confirmed the diagnostic value of the new model. The expression of some FRGs among 11 FRGs was further confirmed by the GSE84402 dataset and TCGA datasets. Overall, our findings provided a novel diagnostic model using FRGs. Prior to its application in a clinical context, there is a need for additional research to evaluate the diagnostic value for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pixel‐wise classification of hyperspectral image (HSI) is a hot spot in the field of remote sensing. The classification of HSI requires the model to be more sensitive to dense features, which is quite different from the modelling requirements of traditional image classification tasks. Cycle‐Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) has achieved satisfactory results in dense feature prediction tasks because it is an expert in extracting high‐resolution features. In order to obtain a more stable receptive field and enhance the effect of feature extraction in multiple directions, we propose an MLP‐like model called DriftNet for HSI classification inspired by Cycle‐MLP and deformable convolution. Besides, the proposed DriftNet uses a unique ladder‐like fully connected structure to achieve progressive activation of neurons and facilitates the fusion of spatial and spectral information, thereby obtaining more sensitive location information for better classification results. Experimental results on three public hyperspectral datasets demonstrate the effectiveness and generalisation of DriftNet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides with methane (CH 4 -SCR) has emerged as a promising technology for mitigating exhaust emissions from natural gas vehicles, while its insufficient catalytic activity and durability are key barriers to application. In this study, novel Ce/In-CHA OXZEO catalysts were prepared, demonstrating exceptional catalytic performance and stability in the CH 4 -SCR reaction. Over these OXZEO catalysts, indium species predominantly existed in the form of InO+ and In x O y within the CHA zeolite framework, while CeO 2 nanoparticles primarily resided as an external layer. During the CH 4 -SCR reaction, NO oxidation to form NO 2 and nitrate species was triggered by CeO 2 , which further enhanced the activation of CH 4 on InO+ sites, thus boosting the low-temperature CH 4 -SCR process by facilitating the formation of the key intermediate CH 3 NO 2. The synergy between InO+ and CeO 2 underscores the exceptional performance and stability of the Ce/In-CHA with a low SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ratio in reducing NO x and CH 4 emissions. [Display omitted] • Ce/In-CHA OXZEO catalysts with high catalytic performance and stability have been designed. • The core-shell structure enables spatial separation of active sites and regulates the matching of redox sites. • The coexistence of two reaction mechanisms in the catalytic reaction of CH 4 -SCR is proposed. • CeO 2 promoted NO oxidation to form NO 2 , facilitating the low-temperature methane activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional cleaning processes may be banned in the near future because of the hazards they pose to the environment. In this study, a water jet was used to clean grease residues from steel wires for the first time. The EDS and SEM results of the steel wire rope surfaces and supplementary water jet impact experiments on galvanized steel plates revealed that when the pressure was lower than 50 MPa and the traverse speed was higher than 600 mm/min, the water jet caused minimal damage to the coating. When the pressure was 5 MPa, the cleaning ratio was between 45 and 60%, and the level of cleaning increased with increasing pressure. Two proposed concepts of exposure ratio and nonexposed area were applied to quantitatively analyze the theoretical upper and lower limits for grease that could be cleaned from two typical structures. The results showed that the lower and upper cleaning limits for structure 7 × 3 were 38.1% and 83.3%, while the lower and upper limits for structure 1 × 3 + 5 × 7 were 35.5% and 59.2%, respectively. This result explains why the grease content of structure 7 × 3 was lower than that of structure 1 × 3 + 5 × 7 after cleaning. In addition, the adhesion test results showed that adhesion to the two kinds of steel wire ropes after cleaning was increased by 126% and 145.71%, respectively, which means that additional processes for improving adhesion could be omitted after using a water jet for cleaning. This is an advantage that traditional cleaning processes do not offer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) refer to bacteria that colonize the rhizosphere and contribute to plant growth or stress tolerance. To further understand the molecular mechanism by which PGPR exhibit symbiosis with plants, we performed a high-throughput single colony screening from the rhizosphere, and uncovered a bacterium (named promoting lateral root, PLR) that significantly promotes Arabidopsis lateral root formation. By 16S rDNA sequencing, PLR was identified as a novel sub-species of Serratia marcescens. RNA-seq analysis of Arabidopsis integrated with phenotypic verification of auxin signalling mutants demonstrated that the promoting effect of PLR on lateral root formation is dependent on auxin signalling. Furthermore, PLR enhanced tryptophan-dependent indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) synthesis by inducing multiple auxin biosynthesis genes in Arabidopsis. Genome-wide sequencing of PLR integrated with the identification of IAA and its precursors in PLR exudates showed that tryptophan treatment significantly enhanced the ability of PLR to produce IAA and its precursors. Interestingly, PLR induced the expression of multiple nutrient (N, P, K, S) transporter genes in Arabidopsis in an auxin-independent manner. This study provides evidence of how PLR enhances plant growth through fine-tuning auxin biosynthesis and signalling in Arabidopsis, implying a potential application of PLR in crop yield improvement through accelerating root development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of nanofibrous K-Mn-Ce composite oxide catalysts were prepared via a centrifugal spinning method for the first time, and their physicochemical properties were studied. The prepared K 0.3x Mn x Ce 1-x O δ metal oxide catalyst, which is a composite of CeO 2 and cryptopotassium manganese-type K 2-x Mn 8 O 16 , exhibits a hierarchical nanotube structure with uniform nanoneedles on its surface. During the process of soot oxidation, CeO 2 utilizes its unique oxygen storage and release capacity to supply oxygen species. Simultaneously, the excellent redox properties of K 2-x Mn 8 O 16 effectively promote valence cycling of the active components and produce more active oxygen species. This synergistic effect effectively enhances the intrinsic activity of the catalysts. Among the prepared catalysts, K 0.15 Mn 0.5 Ce 0.5 O δ exhibits the highest catalytic performance, with 10% (T 10), 50% (T 50), and 90% (T 90) soot conversion temperatures of 267 °C, 309 °C, and 338 °C, respectively, and shows good stability and water and sulfur resistance. Based on their simple preparation, low cost, and good catalytic performance, K 0.3x Mn x Ce 1-x O δ composite metal oxide catalysts have good potential in catalytic soot combustion applications. [Display omitted] • The hierarchical nanotube K 0.3x Mn x Ce 1−x O δ catalysts were synthesized by centrifugal spinning method. • The catalysts exhibit hollow nanotubular structure with a large number of nanoneedles uniformly distributed on the surface. • The prepared K 0.3x Mn x Ce 1−x O δ catalysts exhibit excellent performance for soot combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research endeavor, a novel synthesis variable-gain robust model predictive control (SVGRPC) method using the min-max technique with parameter dependent Lyapunov functions is introduced to achieve the desired trajectory tracking of oxygen excess ratio (OER) and cathode pressure in the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) system. Initially, a simplified control-oriented model of the air supply system is developed and then transformed into a polytopic form to accommodate the inherent uncertainties in the PEMFC. Subsequently, the polytopic model is integrated with the reference trajectory to construct an augmented state-space model for deriving an error state representation. In the framework of robust model predictive control (RPC) utilizing a parameter-dependent Lyapunov function, a series of variable feedback gains are employed to mitigate conservatism. Additionally, the online solution process imposes a significant computational burden, presenting challenges for the real-time implementation of RPC-based control strategy. Therefore, the offline computing is introduced to significantly reduce the computational burden, resulting in the development of the SVGRPC strategy proposed in this paper. Subsequently, the SVGRPC strategy computes explicit linear state-feedback control laws by solving linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) using an offline control algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is then validated through assessments conducted under three distinct operating conditions of the PEMFC system. The outcomes of this study affirm that the proposed controller improves the requirements of control performance when compared to the online RPC with a quadratic Lyapunov function while significantly alleviating the computational workload. • A polytopic air supply subsystem model to capture the uncertainties inherent in the PEMFC. • A robust model predictive control framework with variable feedback gains is employed to mitigate conservatism. • The offline computation method is used to reduce the computational burden. • Comparison with other methods shows the advantages of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a subtype of stroke with high mortality and morbidity due to the lack of effective therapy. Atorvastatin has been reported to alleviate early brain injury (EBI) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) via reducing reactive oxygen species, antiapoptosis, regulated autophagy, and neuroinflammation. Which was the related to the pyroptosis? Pyroptosis can be defined as a highly specific inflammatory programmed cell death, distinct from classical apoptosis and necrosis. However, the precise role of pyroptosis in atorvastatin‐mediated neuroprotection following SAH has not been confirmed. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotection and potential molecular mechanisms of atorvastatin in the SAH‐induced EBI via regulating neural pyroptosis using the filament perforation model of SAH in male C57BL/6 mice, and the hemin‐induced neuron damage model in HT‐22. Atorvastatin or vehicle was administrated 2 h after SAH and hemin‐induced neuron damage. The mortality, neurological score, brain water content, and neuronal death were evaluated. The results show that the atorvastatin treatment markedly increased survival rate, neurological score, greater survival of neurons, downregulated the protein expression of NLRP1, cleaved caspase‐1, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and IL‐18, which indicated that atorvastatin‐inhibited pyroptosis and neuroinflammation, ameliorated neuron death in vivo/vitro subjected to SAH. Taken together, this study demonstrates that atorvastatin improved the neurological outcome in rats and reduced the neuron death by against neural pyroptosis and neuroinflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have been conducted on the crack propagation law and failure characteristics of coal-rock combined body (CRCB) with prefabricated fissure. A sliding crack model was firstly presented to analyze the failure law of rock with a single fracture and the influence of the inclination angle of the fracture on the strength of the rock. The RFPA numerical models of the CRCB with different inclination angles of prefabricated fracture were then established to simulate the dynamic change process of crack propagation and shear stress of the CRCB with prefabricated fracture under uniaxial compression. The influence of the inclination angle of the fracture in the rock on the fracture expansion and failure characteristics of CRCB was further analyzed based on the acoustic emission data. The results showed that (1) when 2 β = arctan 1 / μ , σ cw takes the minimum value, and crack initiation is most likely to occur; (2) the strength of coal-rock assemblage shows different changing trends with the fracture inclination angle; (3) the secondary cracks of CRCB with prefabricated fracture of 0°, 15°, and 30° initiated and expanded near the tip of the main crack, and the secondary cracks of 45°, 60°, and 75° initiated and expanded from the tip of the main crack; (4) there are three failure modes of CRCB with prefabricated crack, the double-shear failure mode Λ , the tensile-shear composite failure mode along the fracture surface, and the tensile failure mode along the fracture surface; and (5) intact CRCB and CRCB with prefabricated crack when α = 75 ° and α = 90 ° have strong brittleness, and other CRCB with different prefabricated fracture inclination angles show a certain degree of postpeak plasticity. The results on the mechanical properties and damage characteristics of CRCB are of great significance for the safety and efficient mining of deep coal resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analog Hall sensors are utilized to detect the mover position of tubular permanent-magnet synchronous linear motors because of their low cost and small size. Typical Hall-sensor-based position estimation methods rely on additional displacement sensors, such as optical grating rulers, to identify the measurement model of the Hall sensors, but this reliance increases the difficulty of implementation of these methods. Moreover, most position detection methods disregard temperature change in the motors, leading to a position estimation error. Thus, a measurement model that considers temperature change is established in this study to overcome these problems. An algorithm consisting of particle swarm optimization and a successive solving algorithm (SSA) is used to identify the measurement model using only Hall sensors. A new SSA with temperature compensation is proposed for real-time position estimation. In this method, the forgetting factor recursive least-squares algorithm is modified to update the measurement model at the present temperature to avoid model mismatch. The proposed method is validated using a self-designed experimental platform. The experimental results show that the model’s identification accuracy is equivalent to that of the fast Fourier transform algorithm using an optical grating ruler. The position estimation error is less than $120~\mu \text{m}$ under different operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Speaker recognition continues to grow as a research challenge in the field with expanded application in commercial, forensic, educational and general speech technology interfaces. However, challenges remain, especially for naturalistic audio streams including recordings with mismatch between train and test data (i.e., when train or system development data and enrollment/test data or application data are collected from different sources). Mismatch conditions (Hansen and Hasan, 2015) can be divided into two categories, extrinsic (channel, noise, etc.) and intrinsic (duration, language, and speaker traits including stress, emotion, Lombard effect, vocal effort, accent). Here, we investigate speaker recognition for the domain mismatch problem (intrinsic mismatch) especially for those challenges introduced by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) SRE (speaker recognition evaluation) in 2016 and 2018. The challenges introduced in NIST SRE-16 and SRE-18 include language mismatch between train (used for the development of the system) and enrollment/test (used at the application phase). Here, we develop three alternative speaker embedding systems; i-vector, t-vector (an improved triplet loss solution), and x-vector. In addition, a number of unsupervised and supervised (using pseudo labels) methods are also studied for domain mismatch compensation, especially applied at the back-end level. These include adapted PLDA, adapted discriminant analysis, as well as score normalization and calibration methods using unlabeled in-domain data. We propose new variations to discriminant analysis with support vectors (SVDA) as well. These results confirm that SVDA can measurably improve speaker recognition performance for SRE-16 and SRE-18 tasks respectively by +15% and +8% in terms of min-Cprimary; and for EER the gains are +14% and +16% respectively, using i-vector speaker embeddings as the baseline. These advancements offer promising steps toward addressing speaker recognition in naturalistic audio streams. • Addresses the problem of speaker recognition in naturalistic environments due to domain mismatch. • Speaker recognition for domain (intrinsic) mismatch is addressed emphasizing challenges from NIST SRE (2016 & 2018). • Three alternative speaker embedding systems are developed: i-Vector, t-Vector (an improved triplet loss solution), and x-Vector. • Back-end advancements include: adapted PLDA, discriminant analysis with support vectors (SVDA), score normalization, and calibration methods. • Results show measurable improvement in speaker recognition performance for SRE-16 and SRE-18 tasks (+14% & +16% for EER). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a severe subtype of stroke, is characterized by notably high mortality and morbidity, largely due to the lack of effective therapeutic options. Although the neuroprotective potential of PPARg and Nrf2 has been recognized, investigative efforts into oroxin A (OA), remain limited in preclinical studies. Methods: SAH was modeled in vivo through filament perforation in male C57BL/6 mice and in vitro by exposing HT22 cells to hemin to induce neuronal damage. Following the administration of OA, a series of methods were employed to assess neurological behaviors, brain water content, neuronal damage, cell ferroptosis, and the extent of neuroinflammation. Results: The findings indicated that OA treatment markedly improved survival rates, enhanced neurological functions, mitigated neuronal death and brain edema, and attenuated the inflammatory response. These effects of OA were linked to the suppression of microglial activation. Moreover, OA administration was found to diminish ferroptosis in neuronal cells, a critical factor in early brain injury (EBI) following SAH. Further mechanistic investigations uncovered that OA facilitated the translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, thereby activating the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. Importantly, OA also upregulated the expression of FSP1, suggesting a significant and parallel protective effect against ferroptosis in EBI following SAH in synergy with GPX4. Conclusion: In summary, this research indicated that the PPARg activator OA augmented the neurological results in rodent models and diminished neuronal death. This neuroprotection was achieved primarily by suppressing neuronal ferroptosis. The underlying mechanism was associated with the alleviation of cellular death through the Nrf2/GPX4 and FSP1/CoQ10 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a devastating complication associated with diabetes mellitus, and it is the leading cause of end-stage renal diseases (ESRD). Over the last few decades, numerous studies have reported the beneficial effects of stem cell administration, specifically mesenchymal stem or stromal cells (MSCs), on tissue repair and regeneration. MSC therapy has been considered a promising strategy for ameliorating the progression of DN largely based on results obtained from several preclinical studies and recent Phase I/II clinical trials. This paper will review the recent literature on MSC treatment in DN. In addition, the roles and potential mechanisms involved in MSC treatment of DN will be summarized, which may present much needed new drug targets for this disease. Moreover, the potential benefits and related risks associated with the therapeutic action of MSCs are elucidated and may help in achieving a better understanding of MSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we report the template‐free synthesis of zinc cobalt oxides/phosphides (Co2P/CoO/ZnCo2O4) hollow sub‐micron boxes as electrocatalysts for HER (hydrogen evolution reaction). The synthesis of such sub‐micron box starts with the preparation of the hollow oxide sub‐micron box and is followed by a phosphorization process. It is proven that the selective etching induces by cation exchange (Zn2+ and Co2+) was the key to the formation of the hollow structure. The analysis of chemical states and electrochemical activity further reveals Zn enhanced the intrinsic activity of catalysts by increasing the electron density of Co in final products. The optimized ZnCo‐OP hollow sub‐micron box exhibits good HER activity with overpotentials of 112 mV at 10 mA/cm2 and 197 mV at 250 mA/cm2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive understanding of the complex regulatory mechanisms governing estrus and ovulation across multiple tissues in mammals is imperative to improve the reproductive performance of livestock and mitigate ovulation-related disorders in humans. To comprehensively elucidate the regulatory landscape, we analyzed the transcriptome of protein-coding genes and long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) in 58 samples (including the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovary, vagina, and vulva) derived from European Large White gilts and Chinese Mi gilts during estrus and diestrus. We constructed an intricate regulatory network encompassing 358 hub genes across the five examined tissues. Furthermore, our investigation identified 85 differentially expressed lincRNAs that are predicted to target 230 genes associated with critical functions including behavior, receptors, and apoptosis. Importantly, we found that vital components of estrus and ovulation events involve "Apoptosis" pathway in the hypothalamus, "Autophagy" in the ovary, as well as "Hypoxia" and "Angiogenesis" in the vagina and vulva. We have identified several differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs), such as SPI1 and HES2 , which regulate these pathways. SPI1 may suppress transcription in the autophagy pathway, promoting apoptosis and inhibiting the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells. Our study provides the most comprehensive transcriptional profiling information related to estrus and ovulation events. • A multi-tissue regulatory network for estrus and ovulation was constructed. • Three lincRNAs and two transcription factors related to estrus were identified. • Apoptosis, autophagy, and hypoxia pathways play key roles in ovulation events. • SPI1 promotes apoptosis and inhibits proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Plant growth is greatly inhibited in tightly sealed Petri dishes for lack of CO2. Bacteria which co-cultured with plant can produce CO2 to promote plant growth in sealed systems. Bacteria produce a wide variety of volatiles, some of which can support and others can damage plant growth. It is a controversial issue whether CO2 or other bacterial volatile compounds promote plant growth in sealed systems. CO2 is critical for photosynthesis. Here, we show that CO2 is a key constituent of the plant growth-promoting volatiles generated by bacteria in a sealed system. We revealed that the growth of Arabidopsis seedlings in an airtight container was retarded due to insufficient supply of the CO2. When either CO2 was introduced into the container, or the seedlings were co-cultured along with certain bacterial species, the plants' growth was restored. Conclusion: The benefit of co-culturing was largely due to the CO2 generated by respiration of the bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skyrmion bags are found in liquid crystals and predicted to exist in ferromagnetic films. They are expected to become the information carriers of the new generation racetrack memory due to their high-degree of freedom of topological charge number. Here, we numerically and theoretically investigate the dynamics of skyrmion bags driven by the spin–orbit torque in an infinite ferromagnetic film and a nanostrip with a finite length. It is found that the constant velocity of the skyrmion bag in the ferromagnetic film depends on its topological charge number, while in the case of motion in nanostrips with the skyrmion bag moving along the boundary, the velocity in the first approximation is independent of the topological charge number. The simulation results are in good agreement with the calculation results. Finally, we show that the skyrmion bag can pass through defects and impurities in the nanostrip due to topological protection. Our results reveal the dynamics of skyrmion bags driven by the spin–orbit torque and may also be beneficial for the development of racetrack memory based on skyrmion bags. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing concerns on the formaldehyde (HCHO) hazard, the efficient oxidation of HCHO over affordable and harmless catalyst is of significant practical interest. Herein, the intermediate state of Mn5O8−Na1.1Mn4O8 (Na−Mn5O8) biphasic‐crystal catalyst, which features Na1.1Mn4O8‐nanosheet@ Mn5O8‐nanorod interconnected 3D structure, is successfully fabricated through the anaerobic calcination of manganite followed by alkali treatment. The resultant Na−Mn5O8 exhibits 100 % conversion of HCHO (150 ppm and 60000 h−1) and reliable stability (50 h) at 90 °C under demanding water‐free feed conditions, which is superior to that of the reference samples of Mn5O8, Na1.1Mn4O8, MnO2 and Na−MnO2. The experimental results demonstrate that the abundant structure defects (oxygen vacancies) on Na−Mn5O8, which may locate along the phase interfaces / shared‐edges of Mn5O8 nanorods and Na1.1Mn4O8 nanosheets, significantly enhance the active oxygen species and finally contribute to the high activity for HCHO oxidation. Furthermore, the 3D structure of Na−Mn5O8 favors mass transfer and fully exposing active sites for the HCHO adsorption and conversion. These findings reveal a way to enhance the catalytic activity of metal oxides via controlling the intermediate state of heteropical crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penehyclidine hydrochloride (PHC) can protect against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the possible mechanisms of PHC in anoxia/reoxygenation (A/R)‐induced injury in H9c2 cells remain unclear. In the present study, H9c2 cells were pretreated with PI3K/Akt inhibitor LY294002, ATP‐sensitive K+ (KATP) channel blocker 5‐hydroxydecanoate (5‐HD), PHC, or KATP channel opener diazoxide (DZ) before subjecting to A/R injury. Cell viability and cell apoptosis were determined by cell counting kit‐8 assay and annexin V/PI assay, respectively. Myocardial injury was evaluated by measuring creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities. Intracellular Ca2+ levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) were measured. The levels of cytoplasmic/mitochondrial cytochrome c (Cyt‐C), Bax, Bcl‐2, cleaved caspase‐3, KATP channel subunits (Kir6.2 and SUR2A), and the members of the Akt/GSK‐3β and Akt/mTOR signaling pathways were determined by western blotting. We found that PHC preconditioning alleviated A/R‐induced cell injury by increasing cell viability, reducing CK and LDH activities, and inhibiting cell apoptosis. In addition, PHC preconditioning ameliorated intracellular Ca2+ overload and ROS production, accompanied by inhibition of both mPTP opening and Cyt‐C release into cytoplasm, and maintenance of ΔΨm. Moreover, PHC preconditioning activated mitochondrial KATP channels, and modulated the Akt/GSK‐3β and Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. Similar effects were observed upon treatment with DZ. Pretreatment with LY294002 or 5‐HD blocked the beneficial effects of PHC. These results suggest that the protective effects of PHC preconditioning on A/R injury may be related to mitochondrial KATP channels, as well as the Akt/GSK‐3β and Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spin pumping is a widely recognized method to generate the spin current in the spintronics, which can be found in varieties of magnetic materials and is acknowledged as a fundamentally dynamic process equivalent to the spin-transfer torque. In this work, we theoretically verified the oscillating spin current mixed by AC and DC components can be pumped from the microwave-motivated breathing skyrmion. The spin current can be pumped within a relatively low-frequency microwave compared with the in-plane ferromagnetic resonance (FMR). Although the amplitude of spin current density for a single confined skyrmion is several times lower than the FMR spin pumping, the pumped current would be improved to be the same order as the FMR through a tight skyrmion lattice. Based on the spin pumping of breathing skyrmion, we designed a high reading-speed racetrack memory model whose reading speed is much higher than the SOT (spin–orbit torque)/STT (spin-transfer torque) skyrmion racetrack. Our work focuses on the spin pumping phenomenon inside the breathing skyrmion, and it may contribute to the applications of the skyrmion-based device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a finite-time tracking control problem is considered for a class of pure-feedback nonlinear systems with event-triggered strategy. The implicit function theorem and the mean value theorem are used to transform the pure-feedback nonlinear systems into strict feedback nonlinear systems. The neural network is adopted to approximate the unknown function and the tracking error is limited to a pre-given boundary by prescribed performance at a finite time. In addition, an improved event-triggered control strategy is proposed to obtain a larger threshold, and also the proposed controller can avoid the Zeno-behavior. Based on Lyapunov stability theory, the adaptive neural network controller can ensure that all the signals in the closed-loop system are uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, the feasibility of this control scheme is proved by simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphate pesticides (OPs) are widely used around the world to control pests in agricultural, residential, and commercial settings. Ingestion of high-dose OPs could lead to acute toxicity, and persistent influence on health could result from acute poisoning or long-term exposure to low dose OPs. An easy to operate, low cost and home available OPs testing platform is urgently needed. Ambient light sensor (ALS) based smart phone colorimetric reader has the advantages of easy to operate, low cost, high accuracy and versatility. In this work, a novel ALS based smart phone colorimetric dipsticks (CDs) reader was reported for rapid monitoring OPs. In this method, acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) CDs was used to test OPs and results were analyzed using an ALS based reader according to the absorbance of ACHE CDs. The results obtained using the ALS based CDs reader were comparable to those obtained using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Ellman assay. The ALS based CDs reader has the advantages of portable, low cost, and high accuracy, and therefore could act an effective platform for OPs monitoring. Image 1 • A novel ambient light sensor (ALS) based acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) colorimetric dipstick reader for organophosphate pesticides testing was reported. • The ALS based ACHE colorimetric dipstick reader has the advantages of easy to operate, low cost, high accuracy and versatility. • Results of the ALS based ACHE colorimetric dipstick reader were comparable with results from GC-MS and Ellman assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ca-type todorokite catalysts were designed and prepared by a simple redox method and applied to the selective reduction of NO x by NH 3 (NH 3 -SCR) for the first time. Compared with the Na-type manjiroite prepared by the same method, the todorokite catalysts with different Mn/Ca ratios showed greatly improved catalytic activity for NO x reduction. Among them, Mn8Ca4 catalyst exhibited the best NH 3 -SCR performance, achieving 90% NO x conversion within temperature range of 70–275°C and having a high sulphur resistance. Compared to the Na-type manjiroite sample, Ca-type todorokite catalysts possessed an increased size of tunnel, resulting in a larger specific surface area. As increased the amounts of Ca doping, the Na content in Ca-type todorokite catalysts significantly decreased, providing larger amounts of Brønsted acid sites for NH 3 adsorption to produce NH 4 +. The NH 4 + species were highly active for reaction with NO + O 2 , playing a determining role in NH 3 -SCR process at low temperatures. Meanwhile, larger amounts of surface adsorbed oxygen contained over the Ca-doping samples than that over Na-type manjiroite, promoting the oxidation of NO and fast SCR processes. Over the Ca-type todorokite catalysts, furthermore, nitrates produced during the flow of NO + O 2 , were more active for reaction with NH 3 than that over Na-type manjiroite, benefiting the occurrence of NH 3 -SCR process. This study provides novel insights into the design of NH 3 -SCR catalysts with high performance. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: During estrus in female pigs, a series of signs are exhibited, such as reddening and swelling of the vulva, as well as mucus discharge from the vulva, which signal ovulation and readiness for mating. We analyzed RNA-seq data from the vulva and vagina tissues of two pig breeds at different stages of estrus to elucidate their regulatory mechanisms by analyzing the differential expression genes (DEG) and long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNA), as well as the utilization of alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites. The functions of these factors contribute to a better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying estrus expression in gilts. The fertility rate and litter size of female pigs are critically affected by the expression of estrus. The objective of this study was to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of estrus expression by analyzing the differential expression of genes and long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNA), as well as the utilization of alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites, in the vulva and vagina during the estrus and diestrus stages of Large White and indigenous Chinese Mi gilts. Our study revealed that the number of differentially expressed genes (DEG) in the vulva was less than that in the vagina, and the DEGs in the vulva were enriched in pathways such as "neural" pathways and steroid hormone responses, including the "Calcium signaling pathway" and "Oxytocin signaling pathway". The DEGs in the vagina were enriched in the "Metabolic pathways" and "VEGF signaling pathway". Furthermore, 27 and 21 differentially expressed lincRNAs (DEL), whose target genes were enriched in the "Endocrine resistance" pathway, were identified in the vulva and vagina, respectively. Additionally, we observed that 63 and 618 transcripts of the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) were lengthened during estrus in the vulva and vagina, respectively. Interestingly, the genes undergoing APA events in the vulva exhibited species-specific enrichment in neural or steroid-related pathways, whereas those in the vagina were enriched in apoptosis or autophagy-related pathways. Further bioinformatic analysis of these lengthened 3′-UTRs revealed the presence of multiple miRNAs binding sites and cytoplasmic polyadenylation element (CPE) regulatory aspects. In particular, we identified more than 10 CPEs in the validated lengthened 3′-UTRs of the NFIX, PCNX4, CEP162 and ABHD2 genes using RT-qPCR. These findings demonstrated the involvement of APA and lincRNAs in the regulation of estrus expression in female pigs, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying estrus expression in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twisted skyrmions, whose helicity angles are different from those of Bloch and Néel skyrmions, have recently been demonstrated in experiments. In this work, we first discuss the origin and the topological properties of twisted skyrmions. Following that, we investigate the current-induced motion of twisted skyrmions by using micromagnetic simulations. It is found that the skyrmion Hall angle of twisted skyrmions driven by the spin Hall effect (SHE) varies continuously with the helicity, which means that the skyrmion Hall angle depends significantly upon the helicity in addition to the dissipative force tensor and the Gilbert damping. More importantly, we demonstrate that the trajectory of the twisted skyrmion can be controlled in a two-dimensional plane with a Gilbert damping gradient, which makes it possible to achieve the SHE-induced motion of twisted skyrmions with zero skyrmion Hall angle. At last, the simulation results demonstrate that the dynamics of twisted skyrmions driven by the spin transfer torque can be described by Thiele's equation, and they are essentially identical to the dynamics of Bloch and Néel skyrmions. Our results provide an understanding of the current-induced motion of twisted skyrmions, which may contribute to the applications of skyrmion-based racetrack memories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term exposure to cadmium-polluted environments may lead to shortened leukocyte telomere length and cognitive decline. This study aims to investigate (1) the associations among blood cadmium levels, leukocyte telomere length, and cognitive function, and (2) the mediating role of leukocyte telomere length between blood cadmium levels and cognitive function among older adults in the United States. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2002. Cadmium exposure level was assessed by measuring cadmium levels in blood samples. Leukocyte telomere length was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and cognitive function was measured by the digit symbol substitution test (DSST). A total of 2185 older adults aged over 60 were included in this study, comprising 1109 (49.65%) males. Elevated blood cadmium levels were significantly associated with the risk of a decline in cognitive function (β = - 2.842, p = 0.018). Shorter leukocyte telomere lengths were significantly associated with a higher risk of a decline in cognitive function (β = 4.144, p = 0.020). The total indirect effect on the blood cadmium level and cognitive function via leukocyte telomere length was - 0.218 (p = 0.012). The mediation effect was estimated to be 0.218/2.084 × 100% = 10.46%. The findings suggest that cadmium exposure may increase the risk of cognitive impairment by causing shortened leukocyte telomere length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing sensor to detect H 2 under different oxygen concentrations is essential in monitoring status of nuclear weapon. A membrane covering on a sensing film could influence the diffusion of oxygen, thus changing the sensing performance of a metal oxide (MOX) gas sensor. In this research, silica and alumina (SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 ) composite membranes were deposited in-situ on Pt-modified ZnO by combining chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) methods Through adjusting the ratio of silicon to aluminum (Si/Al), the composition of membranes, the diffusion rate of oxygen and H 2 sensing property under different oxygen concentrations were regulated. With the decrease of the Si/Al ratio, the H 2 responses of the sensors increased first and decreased then under high (10,000 ppm) oxygen concentration. While under low (50 ppm) oxygen concentration, the H 2 responses of the sensors went down first and rose then. The sensors covered with membranes of high Si/Al ratio exhibited aerobic H 2 sensing property. Meanwhile, sensors deposited with membranes of low Si/Al ratio or without membrane showed anaerobic H 2 sensing property. This study contributes to further understanding of the influence of oxygen diffusion on MOX sensing properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iritectol G, a novel iridal-type triterpenoid containing an uncommon tetrahydrofuran moiety, was isolated from the rhizomes of Iris tectorum . The structure was elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis. Iritectol G inhibited spontaneous and 4-aminopyridine-evoked calcium oscillations in primary cultured neocortical neurons with IC 50 values of 8.2 μM and 12.5 μM, respectively. Further electrophysiological study demonstrated that iritectol G preferred to interact with inactivated state of voltage-gated sodium channel with an IC 50 value of 7.0 μM. These data demonstrated that iritectol G was a novel sodium channel inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Drop-weight impact tests were conducted to investigate the responses of double-helix macro BFRP fiber reinforced RC beams subjected to impact loads. • The effects of double-helix macro BFRP fiber reinforcement on the impact resistance of RC beams were discussed. • The influences of different fiber orientations, i.e. aligned fiber and random fiber distributions were examined. • Residual resistance tests were carried out to assess the post-impact performances of RC beams. Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) fibers with double-helix geometry were proposed to reinforce concrete material in a previous study. It was observed that the double-helix geometry improved the bonding strength of fiber with concrete matrix, and adding such type of fibers could enhance the strength, energy absorption capacity and ductility of concrete material in static and dynamic loading conditions. As a continuation of the previous study, this paper repoprts experimental investigations of the responses of double-helix macro BFRP fiber reinforced concrete beams subjected to static and impact loads. To investigate the effects of fiber orientation and distribution, normal concrete and self-compacting concrete were used as matrix material based on their different flowability, to make Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) and Fiber Reinforced Self Compacting Concrete (FRSCC). It was observed that the fibers tended to align in self-compacting concrete due to its high flowability, therefore the flexural performance of FRSCC was higher than FRC. In drop-weight impact tests, it was demonstrated that the incorporation of fibers into RC beam could effectively improve its energy absorption capacity, residual strength and ductility. Finally, the post-impact performances of the impacted beams were evaluated by subsequent static bending tests. It was found that with 1% volume fraction of fiber reinforcements the residual strength of RC beams was improved by over 20%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic deformation of 3D printed components may occur when they are in use. Here we analyze the effects of the initial 3D printed microstructure of 316 L stainless steel on the subsequent deformation behavior, where we apply 10% and 30% thickness reductions by cold rolling. The microstructures are characterized by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Compared to conventionally manufactured (solution treated) samples, deformation twinning is observed to occur at lower strains in 3D printed samples, and twins are observed to be thinner and intersecting inside some grains. These observations are linked to the pre-existing dislocation structure in the 3D printed samples, where dislocations of various Burgers vectors facilitate deformation twinning. Furthermore, cells with an average size of 125 nm are observed to form inside the initial cellular structure. The strength calculated based on microstructural parameters generally agrees with experimental results, showing a large strengthening contribution from twin–matrix lamellae. The present study provides fundamental ideas for microstructural engineering of 3D printed metals for even better mechanical properties. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palladium-catalyzed three-component cycloaminocarbonylation of 2 -formylaryl tosylates with hydrazines and carbon monoxide has been established, which provides an efficient method for synthesis of substituted phthalazinones. In addition, by applying this protocol as the key step, Hydralazine can easily be synthesized in 65% yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to put forth an overview of natural products reducing uric acid level with hepatorenal dual effects. The prevalence of hyperuricemia increased rapidly in recent years and has closely interdependent relationship with other metabolic disorders. Current therapeutically used drugs including a few uricostatic and uricosuric chemical drugs are proved efficient to control serum uric acid level. However, their side effects as well as contraindication in some cases with liver, kidney injury, or other conditions frequently limit their clinic application. More attention thus has been paid to natural products as an alternative means in treating hyperuricemia. Many natural products have been proved efficient in downregulating uric acid level, among which some can improve hyperuricemia with hepatorenal dual effects. It means these natural products can regulate both the production and the excretion of uric acid by targeting the key metabolic enzymes mainly in liver or uric acid transporters in kidneys. Thus, these natural products could have stronger efficacy and broader application, which may be developed for the treatment of hyperuricemia in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Oxygen atoms of Zr O P and -POH of α-ZrP acted as adsorption sites for cations. • La3+ was mainly adsorbed through ion exchange with the hydrogen of -POH groups. • La3+ was most stably adsorbed in the center of six-membered O ring of Zr O P. • Impurity Al3+ greatly affected the adsorption of La3+ on α-ZrP, contrary to NH4+. • Bonding of La 4d with Os 2p orbitals occured in the range of −9 to 0 eV in PDOS. The α-zirconium phosphate can act as a potential adsorbent for recycling rare earth ions in tailwater because of the abundant surface -POH groups and the layered structure. The adsorption behaviors and mechanism of rare earth La3+ on the material were studied through experimental and density functional theory (DFT) calculation methods. The experimental results show that the adsorption process conformed to pseudo-first-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm model, with the maximum adsorption amount of 37.1 mg⋅g−1. La3+ was mainly adsorbed through ion exchange with the proton of surface -POH. The presence of impurity Al3+ had a great influence on the adsorption of La3+ on α-ZrP contrary to the case of NH 4 +. DFT calculations further proved that the oxygen of -Zr O P- and -POH acted as adsorption sites of α-ZrP, and the adsorption energies of La3+, Al3+ and NH 4 + were −375.7, −2149.5 and −22.8 kJ⋅mol−1, respectively, in the order of Al3+ > La3+ > NH 4 +, consistent with the experimental results. The partial density of states (PDOS) suggested that the bonding peaks between La 4d and O s 2p orbitals occurred in the energy range of −9 to 0 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasingly strict environmental regulations and greater awareness of the need for environmental protection, much attention has been given to air pollution caused by diesel soot particles. At present, catalytic after-treatment exhaust technology is one of the most effective ways to eliminate soot particles, and the development of high-efficiency catalysts is the key factor in its wide application. According to the characteristics of gas-solid-solid reactions for catalytic soot combustion, the design and preparation of catalysts with different pore sizes can effectively improve the contact between soot particles and catalysts, greatly improving catalytic activity. In this paper, the preparations of three-dimensional ordered macroporous catalysts, three-dimensional ordered micro/meso-macroporous catalysts, and three-dimensional ordered micro-meso-macroporous catalysts are introduced. The latest research progress on the catalytic performance and mechanism for the combustion of soot particles over 3DOM catalysts is summarized. Finally, the problems and future development trends of three-dimensional ordered macroporous catalysts for soot combustion are proposed. [Display omitted] • Soot particles emitted from diesel engines have caused serious environmental problems. • 3DOM-based oxide catalysts have been widely used to eliminate soot particles. • The preparation and catalytic performance of above catalysts for soot combustion were reviewed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs was prepared by impregnation and electro-deposition method. • rGO and g-C 3 N 4 improved optical and photoelectrochemical properties of TNAs. • rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs possessed effective performance for PEC degradation of m -CNB. • OH, O 2 – and h+ were the major active species for m -CNB degradation. • Degradation pathway was proposed according to GC/MS spectra and DFT calculation. The photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) technology by combing photocatalysis and electrochemistry has attracted widespread concerns in the organic pollutant degradation due to its effective degradation performance. TiO 2 nanotube arrays (TNAs) can be used not only as photocatalyst but also as electrode and is regarded as a popular photoelectrode in PEC system. However, the fast photogenerated carrier recombination and low visible light utilization of TNAs restrict practical application of PEC technology for organic pollutant degradation. In this work, the graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were loaded on TNAs surface to prepare ternary photoelectrode (rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs) for PEC degradation of m -chloronitrobenzene (m -CNB) under visible light. The surface structure and composition analysis revealed that rGO and g-C 3 N 4 were successfully deposited on TNAs surface. The good light absorption capacity of g-C 3 N 4 and good conductivity of rGO inhibited the photogenerated carrier recombination of TNAs and g-C 3 N 4. The rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs prepared with 60 mg/L graphene oxide (rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs-60) possessed wider visible-light absorption range, higher carrier density and photoconversion efficiency than other as-prepared photoelectrodes, which promoted PEC degradation efficiency of m -CNB. The cyclic degradation experiment indicated that rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs-60 photoelectrode had good reusability and stability. The radical scavenging experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra demonstrated that OH, O 2 – and h+ were major active species, and e− was auxiliary species for PEC degradation of m -CNB by rGO/g-C 3 N 4 /TNAs-60. The degradation pathways of m -CNB were proposed according to gas chromatography mass spectra and density functional theory calculation. The comprehensive toxicity of m -CNB was relieved after PEC degradation according to the toxicity prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibers made of basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) have been used to reinforce concrete material. BFRP fiber with double-helix geometry was recently proposed, with demonstrated superior bond-slip behavior between fiber and concrete matrix hence improved reinforcing effects on concrete materials. To further examine the contribution of double-helix BFRP fibers to the impact resistance of concrete material, this study carries out laboratory tests to investigate the static and dynamic properties of BFRP fiber reinforced concrete (BFRC) under compression and tension loadings. The investigation on the influence of volume fraction of double-helix BFRP fibers on the mechanical properties of concrete under quasi-static loads is firstly presented. It is found that increasing BFRP fiber volume fraction up to 1.5% leads to improved compressive strength, splitting tensile strength and flexural performance of BFRC. The toughness of BFRC with 1.5% fiber volume fraction is 3.8 times that of plain concrete at the deflection of 3 mm and the uniaxial compressive strength and splitting tensile strength are increased by 10.7% and 16.2%, respectively. Furthermore, the dynamic mechanical properties of BFRC with 1.5% fiber volume fraction were investigated by compressive, spitting tensile and spall tests using split Hopkinson pressure bar test systems. Test results reveal that the addition of double-helix BFRP fibers enhances the strain rate sensitivity of concrete in terms of strength, ductility and energy absorption capacities, and the rate sensitivity is more significant with the increase of strain rate. Based on the test results, empirical formulas of DIF-strain rate relations for compressive and tensile strengths of BFRC are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We explored the effect of magnetic fields on bimeron. • We discovered a new resonance mode of bimeron. • It is found that the resonance frequency of bimeron can be adjusted by magnetic fields. • Our studies can help to open novel research into the spintronics of magnetic bimeron. Magnetic bimeron composed of a meron and an antimeron can be considered as a magnetic skyrmion in the in-plane magnet and have great potential for spintronic devices. Here, we explored the effect of static magnetic fields on the shape of bimeron. It is found that the size of the bimeron can be adjusted by magnetic fields in an anisotropic direction. Then we study the field-tuned spin excitation spectrum of magnetic bimeron. Unlike the common breathing mode and the two rotation modes, novel resonance modes, which can be considered as a combination of the breathing and rocking-rotation modes, are observed. The results presented in this study can help to open novel research into the spintronics of magnetic bimeron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filler materials of soft tissue should have good biodegradable absorption and biocompatibility. To investigate feasibility of keratin hydrogels used as filler materials, a keratin with high molecular weight and self-assembly ability was extracted from human hair using a modified reduction method and was characterized using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Fourier transform infrared, and X-ray diffraction. An injectable keratin hydrogel was also prepared and its water absorption, cell toxicity, and histological behavior were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide method and subcutaneously implanted experiment. The results showed that the modified extraction method could keep the activity of the keratin and provided the self-assembly crosslinked ability of the keratin. The water absorption of the keratin hydrogel could be controlled by adjusting some preparation parameters and the percentage of water absorption was up to 850%. In addition, the subcutaneous injection experiment for Sprague Dawley rats indicated that the keratin hydrogel had good biocompatibility and could promote the formation of angiogenesis as well as proliferation. It can be predicted that the keratin extracted from human hair and keratin hydrogel have good application prospects in the field of filler materials for soft tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Super304H steel is a new fine-grained austenitic heat-resistant stainless steel developed in recent years, and it is widely used in high temperature section superheater and reheater tubes of ultra-supercritical thermal power units’ boiler. Currently intergranular corrosion (IGC) has occurred in a few austenitic stainless steel tubes in ultra-supercritical units and led to boiler leakage. The purpose of this paper is to find a nondestructive method to quickly and easily detect IGC of austenitic stainless steel tube. Design/methodology/approach – This paper uses the nonlinear characteristics of ultrasonic propagation in steel tube to detect the IGC of Super304H tube. Findings – The experimental results show that the nonlinear coefficient generally increases sensitively with the degree of IGC; hence, the nonlinear coefficient can be used to assess IGC degree of tubes, and the nonlinear coefficient measurement method is repeatable for the same tube. Research limitations/implications – A theory of how IGC would affect the ultrasonic signals and lead to a nonlinear response needs further research. Practical implications – A nondestructive method to quickly and easily detect IGC is provided. Social implications – Using ultrasonic nonlinear coefficient to assess IGC degree of tubes is a new try. Originality/value – This paper provides a new way to test IGC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the influence of alkali on the gasification of pig manure at 540°C, 25 MPa was investigated. KOH addition increased H2 fraction and the gas yield. The alkali is accumulated in the reactor, and the catalytic effect was further improved with reaction time prolonging. A novel 4-lump kinetic model for pig manure in SCWG including feedstock, CH4, CO, and CO2 lumps is proposed. The kinetic parameters are estimated for each involved reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]