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This paper centers on the analysis of the dynamics of a modified Leslie–Gower predator–prey model employing Holling-type II schemes, with the prey exhibiting pure random diffusion and the predator undergoing a mixed form of movement. The extinction of species and uniform persistence of this system are explored, and several conditions for the stability, uniqueness and multiplicity of positive steady-state solutions are derived. In contrast to the specialist and generalist predator–prey systems in open advective environments, the dynamics of this system are more intricate. It emerges that multiple positive steady-state solutions and the bistable phenomenon exist for this system when a small advection rate and a moderate predation rate are imposed. Numerical simulations reveal that the increase of diffusion rate for prey disadvantages the survival of itself and has no impact on predator invasion, while the increase of diffusion rate for predators favors the invasion of itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the global dynamics of a reaction–diffusion–advection Leslie–Gower predator–prey model in open advective environments. We find that there exist critical advection rates, intrinsic growth rates, diffusion rates and length of the domain, which classify the global dynamics of the Leslie–Gower predator–prey system into three scenarios: coexistence, persistence of prey only and extinction of both species. The results reveal some significant differences with the classical specialist and generalist predator–prey systems. In particular, it is found that the critical advection rates of prey and predator are independent of each other and the parameters about predation rate have no influence on the dynamics of system. The theoretical results provide some interesting highlights in ecological protection in streams or rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. BACKGROUND: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a cutaneous sarcoma with obscure origin and multidirectional differentiation. Application of RNA-Seq in the detection of COL1A1–PDGFB is still at early stages. OBJECTIVE: We aim to test the efficacy of fusion gene detection using bulk RNA-Seq in DFSPs, explore altered molecular pathways and biological processes for evidences of tumor origin and cell identity shift. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans and normal dermis samples were acquired for RNA-Seq. Fusion gene detection was performed using STAR-Fusion. RNA-Seq 2G yielded differentially expressed genes. Altered pathways, key gene ontology terms, and similar cell/tissue types were identified with gene set enrichment analysis. xCell was used for cell types enrichment analysis. RESULTS: 28/30 CD34(+) cases were positive for COL1A1–PDGFB. 406 upregulated and 543 downregulated genes were determined. Among the top 10 upregulated genes, 6 had neural distribution, function, or disease correlation. The upregulated genes were related to synapse, trans-synaptic signaling, neural development, and extracellular matrix. Similarities between DFSP and nervous system components were highlighted, with fibroblast cellular abundancy increased during xCell analysis. CONCLUSION: Bulk RNA-Seq provided with high detection rate of COL1A1-PDGFB. Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans showed fibroblastic activity and neural features, which validated DFSP's fibroblast origin and tendency of neural differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Extracellular matrix communicates with surrounding cells to maintain skin homeostasis and modulate multiple cellular processes including wound healing. OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the dynamic composition and potential roles of extracellular matrix in normal skin, wound healing process, and abnormal skin scarring. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature review was performed to identify relevant publications pertaining to the extracellular matrix deposition in normal skin and wound healing process, as well as in abnormal scars. RESULTS: A summary of the matrix components in normal skin is presented. Their primary roles in hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling phases of wound healing are briefly discussed. Identification of novel extracellular matrix in keloids is also provided. CONCLUSION: Abnormal scarring remains a challenging condition with unmet satisfactory treatments. Illumination of extracellular matrix composition and functions in wound healing process will allow for the development of targeted therapies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is concerned with a Lotka–Volterra cooperation–reaction–diffusion–advection model in open advective environments. It is found that there are two critical advection rates, which classify the dynamic behavior of this system into three different scenarios, namely, (i) both species go extinct; (ii) one species survives in the long run, the other goes extinct and (iii) both species can persistently survive. The theoretical results provide some interesting highlights in ecological protection in streams and rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We obtained the rupture process and slip distribution of the 2022 Mw6.6 Menyuan earthquake by jointly inverting accelerogram data and InSAR measurements. The near-field InSAR measurements provide good constraints on the shallow slip distributions (<6 km). The accelerogram data enable us to better resolve the deeper coseismic slip (>6 km). The combination of two types of data provided improved constrains on slip distribution of the 2022 Menyuan earthquake. The results from joint inversion of InSAR and accelerogram data reveal a 26-km-long rupture length, which roughly agrees with the mapped length from the optically identified surface rupture trace and the InSAR deformation field. We imaged a major asperity with a dimension of 14 × 6 km at 4 km depth updip of the hypocenter. The maximum slip is estimated to be 3.8 m at 4 km depth. The duration of the 2022 Menyuan earthquake is ~14 s, and 90% of the seismic moment is released in the first 10 s. The total seismic moment is estimated to be 1.31 × 1 × 1019 N·m, equivalent to a moment magnitude of Mw6.7. Our results highlight that the moderate but shallow rupture during the 2022 Menyuan earthquake could intensify the seismic damage on the surface, confirmed by field investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water shortages threaten agricultural sustainability in the semi-arid areas of the Loess Plateau. Judicious mulching management can improve water conservation practices to alleviate this issue while increasing crop productivity. We investigated the effect of straw strip mulching and film mulching on soil water consumption, temperature, growth, grain yield, and economic income of soybean [Glycine max(Linn.) Merr.] from 2017 to 2018 in Qingyang on the semi-arid Loess Plateau in China using four treatments: (a) alternating ridges and furrows with ridges mulched with white polyethylene film (PMP), (b) alternating flat and bare land with only the plat mulched by white polyethylene film (PMF), (c) alternating strips mulched with maize (Zea mays L.) straw (SM), and (d) traditional land planting without mulching (CK). The mulching treatments (PMP, PMF, and SM) increased soil water consumption and soil water use efficiency. The SM, PMF, and PMP treatments had 12.3–12.5, 16.8–22.1, and 23.2–24.2 mm higher soil water consumption (0–120 cm depth) than CK, most of which occurred in the 60–120 cm soil layer. Compared with CK, PMP and PMF significantly increased soil temperature by 1.30–1.31 °C and 0.76–1.00 °C, soybean grain yield by 38.6–39.0 % and 38.8–44.2 %, and water use efficiency (WUE) by 27.7–32.8 % and 30.8–37.5 %, respectively, while SM significantly decreased soil temperature by 0.96–1.15 °C, and increased grain yield by 21.8–25.4 % and WUE by 16.9–21.9 %. PMP and PMF did not significantly change soil water consumption, WUE, or grain yield. The SM treatment increased net income by 501.3–691.7 and 1914.5–2244.9 CNY ha−1 relative to PMP and CK, respectively, but PMF and SM did not significantly differ. Therefore, the SM system could help increase grain yields and economic returns in dryland soybean production, avoiding the adverse effects of the increasingly popular plastic mulching approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibroblasts in keloids undergo cell identity transition with altered transcriptional characteristics. However, the core transcription factors driving this cellular reprogramming remain largely unknown. Here, we report the results of transcriptional profiling from 48 keloid and 24 control dermal tissues. We identified 1187 upregulated differentially expressed genes (foldchange > 2, false discovery rate < 0.05) in keloids, which were mainly enriched in extracellular matrix organization and bone/cartilage development, with significantly increased expression of bone/cartilage‐associated collagens (COL5A1, COL10A1, and COL11A1) and glycoproteins (ACAN, COMP, and SPARC). Deconvolution analysis also revealed significantly increased composition of osteoblasts in keloid dermis. A total of 92 upregulated transcription factors were screened out from differentially expressed genes and mainly enriched in transcription process and skeleton development. Additional sequencing of six keloid individuals with multiple regions and intersection further narrow the list with 10 transcription factors. Finally, AEBP1, CREB3L1, RUNX2, and ZNF469 have been identified as candidate core regulators in promoting the gaining of bone/cartilage‐like characteristics in keloids. RNA‐sequencing of full‐skin keloids consolidated the existence of these four transcription factors. Immunohistochemistry was employed to verify the expression of AEBP1, CREB3L1, RUNX2, and ZNF469 in keloid fibroblasts. In conclusion, we bioinformatically discovered the increased expression of bone/cartilage‐associated genes and candidate core transcription factors in keloids. Our findings promise to provide molecular clues to develop novel therapeutic modalities against skin fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concurrent multiple primary extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is rare. Herein, we present two Chinese cases of concurrent primary EMPD involving both the genitalia and the axilla, and they also had a history of other malignancy. We also summarise the cases of multiple primary EMPD previously described in literature. Careful examination of all apocrine sweat gland‐bearing sites and additional internal malignancies is recommended for patients with EMPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 oxygen carrier with oxygen vacancies exhibited higher CO oxidation efficiency in CLC. [Display omitted] • The CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 oxygen carrier with oxygen vacancies was successfully synthesized. • The CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 -O v OC exhibited higher CO oxidation efficiency. • The oxygen vacancy formation energy was calculated by DFT and that of the CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 OC is lower than Fe 2 O 3. • The CO CLC reaction on CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 -O v OC abided the MvK mechanism. Chemical looping combustion (CLC) is a promising way for CO 2 separation and capture. The oxygen carrier (OC) plays a key role in CLC by delivering lattice oxygen for oxidation reaction. Herein, CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 oxygen carrier with oxygen vacancies is successfully synthesized, and the synergistic effect of Ce and Fe in CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 OC is investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) tests and theoretical calculations. The reactivity of OCs is also tested in a fixed bed. Experimental results show that the CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 oxygen carrier exhibits higher CO oxidation efficiency than CeO 2 and Fe 2 O 3 , which may be caused by the synergistic effect of Ce and Fe. Moreover, the CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 composite OC shows a downward trend and achieved a weight loss rate of 4.1% which is higher than that of Fe 2 O 3 and CeO 2 in the TGA test. In addition, the electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectra of oxygen carrier demonstrates that the typical signal peaks of oxygen vacancies around at g = 2.003 of CeO 2 , Fe 2 O 3 and CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 OC were observed, which can rapidly facilitate migration of lattice oxygen from interior to the surface of OC due to the existence of oxygen vacancies. Further, the oxygen vacancy formation energy was calculated by DFT, showing that the figure of the CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 OC (3.95 eV) is lower than Fe 2 O 3 (9.56 eV), which indicates that the addition of CeO 2 can efficiently reduce the oxygen vacancy formation energy. Finally, based on the results of reactivity and characterization test of OCs, it is demonstrated that the CO CLC reaction with CeO 2 /Fe 2 O 3 oxygen carrier follows Mars-van Krevelen (MvK) mechanism. This work reveals new insights into the synergistic improvement of the performance of Ce-Fe oxygen carriers with oxygen vacancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injection welding is an excellent adhesive‐free bonding method for thermoplastic resins, demonstrating outstanding connection effectiveness. The incorporation of carbon fibers (CFs) significantly enhances the weld shear strength at the injection interface. This study aims to investigate the reinforcement effect of CF‐reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTP) during the injection welding process. And explore the influence of the amount of added CFs on the weld shear strength. Polyamide 6 (PA6)/CF composites with CF contents of 10 wt% and 30 wt% were subjected to injection welding for the first and second molding cycles, respectively. It was observed that the reinforcement effects varied considerably depending on the combinations studied. Under the optimal combination and process parameters, the weld shear strength of PA6/CF composites reached 63 MPa, equivalent to 90% of the shear strength (70 MPa) of the original PA6/CF material. Polarized light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were utilized to analyze the distribution of CFs at the interface and the reinforcing mechanism during tensile fracture. The significance of maintaining uniform CF content during the welding process of PA6/CF composites was emphasized. Highlights: Preparation of PA6 composite materials with different carbon fiber contents.Achieving high welding shear strength of composite materials through injection welding.Identified the optimal injection welding conditions to achieve the highest strength.The positive effect of specific fiber distribution on welding strength was analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of κ‐carbide on the spheroidization process of low‐density ultrafine pearlitic steel (with 5 wt% Al and 5 wt% Mn additions) is investigated through isothermal annealing spheroidization. In the findings, it is demonstrated that κ‐carbides can significantly refine the lamellar spacing of low‐density ultrafine pearlite during the isothermal transformation. Additionally, under identical conditions, κ‐pearlite exhibits a higher number of ferrite/κ‐carbide interfaces. In the first stage of pearlite spheroidization, an abundance of dislocations and sub‐grain boundaries facilitate rapid fusion of the lamellar pearlite, while in the second stage, they provide a high‐speed diffusion pathway for carbon diffusion. Moreover, the reduced lamellar spacing shortens the distance for carbon and alloying elements diffusion, thereby promoting granular κ‐carbide formation and accelerating spheroidization in low‐density ultra‐fine pearlite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation and characteristics are two important topics in the study of vegetation pattern. In this paper, we focus on the influence of infiltration feedback of surface runoff on the formation and characteristics of banded vegetation pattern on hillsides of semiarid area. Firstly, it is shown that the infiltration feedback of surface runoff is an important formation mechanics of the banded vegetation pattern in semiarid area. Then it is found that the patterns formed within the reasonable parameter space are periodic both in space and time and the wave speed of the periodic vegetation stripes become larger with the increase of the infiltration feedback strength, while the wavelength is negatively correlated with the infiltration feedback strength. At last, it is shown that the mean productivity of grass pattern is lower than that of homogeneous steady state when the infiltration feedback is weak and it is larger than that with stronger infiltration feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A new formation mechanism of banded vegetation on hillsides of semiarid area is proposed. • The stronger internal competition reaction between plants leads to increase of wavelength of the vegetation stripes. • The migration speed of the vegetation stripes decreases with the increase of the internal competition intensity. Abstract Self-organised patterns of vegetation are a characteristic feature of semi-deserts. In this paper, we find the internal competition reaction between plants can lead to the formation of spatial vegetation patterns, which is different from the normal formation mechanism of long-range competition and short-range facilitation. It is also found that the internal competition between biomass has an effect on the characters of banded vegetation. In particular, it is shown that the internal competition reaction leads to the decrease of the migration speed and the increase of the wavelength of the stripe patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spatio-temporal dynamics of a reaction–diffusion–advection food-limited population model with nonlocal delayed competition and Dirichlet boundary condition are considered. Existence and stability of the positive spatially nonhomogeneous steady state solution are shown. Existence and direction of the spatially nonhomogeneous steady-state-Hopf bifurcation are proved. Stable spatio-temporal patterns near the steady-state-Hopf bifurcation point are numerically obtained. We also investigate the joint influences of some important parameters including advection rate, food-limited parameter and nonlocal delayed competition on the dynamics. It is found that the effect of advection on Hopf bifurcation is opposite with the corresponding no-flux system. The theoretical results provide some interesting highlights in ecological protection in streams or rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the lightweight production requirements of automobiles and achieve high strength, reinforced thermoplastic composite materials are gradually replacing metal materials. Injection molding is the preferred manufacturing method to enable the production of complex‐shaped parts, facilitate production, and reduce costs. In this study, carbon fiber (CF) was added to the commonly used resin‐reinforcing material, polyamide (nylon) PA6, to create a CF‐reinforced thermoplastic composite (polyamide 6 [PA6]/CF) that was welded using injection molding. This study not only investigates the impact of different welding conditions on shear strength but also discusses the sequence of welding. Achieving 85% of the shear strength of the PA6 base material under ideal circumstances. The CF distribution and reinforcement mechanism were analyzed by observing the connection interface and cross section using a polarizing microscope and a scanning electron microscope. When PA6/CF was used as the secondary molded body, the welding results were better. The addition of CF had a significant strengthening effect on the strength of the PA6 injection welding. Highlights: Carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composite materials were prepared, and welding with PA6 was achieved using the injection molding method.The optimal welding parameters were determined by varying the mold, injection speed, injection temperature, and order of injection. The maximum welding shear strength reached 85% of the base material shear strength.The positive effect of specific fiber distribution on welding strength was analyzed by observing the interface using a scanning electron microscope and a polarizing microscope.This study provides valuable insights into the optimization of welding processes for carbon fiber thermoplastic composite materials, offering possibilities for connecting dissimilar materials with poor compatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On January 21st, 2016, a Ms 6.4 earthquake hit Menyuan County, Qinghai province, China. The nearest known fault is the Leng Long Ling (LLL) fault which is located approximately 7 km north of the epicenter. This fault has mainly shown sinistral strike-slip movement since the late Quaternary Period. However, the focal mechanism indicates that it is a thrust earthquake, which is different from the well-known strike-slip feature of the LLL fault. In this study, we determined the focal mechanism and primary nodal plane through multi-step inversions in the frequency and time domain by using the broadband regional seismic waveforms recorded by the China Digital Seismic Network (CDSN). Our results show that the rupture duration was short, within 0–2 s after the earthquake, and the rupture expanded upwards along the fault plane. Based on these fault parameters, we then solve for variable slip distribution on the fault plane using the InSAR data. We applied a three-segment fault model to simulate the arc-shaped structure of the northern LLL fault, and obtained a detailed slip distribution on the fault plane. The inversion results show that the maximum slip is 0.43 m, and the average slip angle is 78.8°, with a magnitude of Mw 6.0 and a focal depth of 9.38 km. With the geological structure and the inversion results taken into consideration, it can be suggested that this earthquake was caused by the arc-shaped secondary fault located at the north side of the LLL fault. The secondary fault, together with the LLL fault, forms a normal flower structure. The main LLL fault extends almost vertically into the base rock and the rocks between the two faults form a bulging fault block. Therefore, we infer that this earthquake is the manifestation of a neotectonics movement, in which the bulging fault block is lifted further up under the compresso-shear action caused by the Tibetan Plateau pushing towards the northwest direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the kinematic characteristics of the Longitudinal Valley Fault Zone (LVFZ) can help us to better understand the evolution of orogens. The 2022 Mw7.0 Taitung earthquake that occurred in Taiwan provides us with a good opportunity to understand the motion characteristics of the Central Range Fault (CRF) and the strain partitioning pattern within the Longitudinal Valley Fault (LVF). We obtained the coseismic displacement and slip distribution of the 2022 Taiwan earthquake based on the strong-motion and GPS data available. The causative fault of this earthquake is the west-dipping Central Range Fault, which is buried beneath the western boundary of the LVF. The coseismic displacement field exhibits a quadrant distribution pattern, indicating a left-lateral strike-slip mechanism with a maximum displacement exceeding 1.25 m. The joint inversion results show that the size of the main asperity is 40 km × 20 km, and the maximum slip amount of 2.6 m is located at a depth of 10 km, equivalent to an earthquake of Mw7.04. The LVFZ is composed of LVF and CRF, which accommodates nearly half of the oblique convergence rate between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. There is a phenomenon of strain partitioning in the southern segment of the Longitudinal Valley Fault Zone. The Central Mountain Range Fault is primarily responsible for accommodating strike-slip motion, while the Longitudinal Valley Fault is mainly responsible for accommodating thrust motion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The July 3rd, 2015 Pishan, China Mw 6.4 earthquake occurred within the Hetian fold belt, a frontal thrust region between the Northwestern Tibetan Plateau and the Tarim basin. We investigate the fault geometry and the rupture process of the Pishan earthquake based on joint inversion of teleseismic body waves and InSAR measurements. Our results show that the top of the fault that ruptured in the Pishan earthquake is buried 5 ± 2 km beneath the surface and that the earthquake ruptured only a segment of a deeply-seated detachment lying under the Hetian fold belt. Our inferred coseismic slip model shows two slip asperities, located in the depth range of about 7–9 km and 10–11 km. Additionally, we resolve a slip deficit region between the slip asperities, which might indicate friction heterogeneity on the fault plane. The earthquake ruptured for ∼15 s, releasing a total seismic moment of 4.7 × 10 18 N m. We also show that the latest Pishan earthquake caused positive Coulomb stress changes on back thrust faults, potentially decreasing the time to the next earthquake on those faults. Based on our Pishan coseismic slip model, along with both the trend of the anticline system and the pattern of coseismic deformation, we envision an ongoing east-west extensional growth of the anticlines in the Western Kunlun frontal thrust region in addition to the northern underthrusting of the Northwestern Tibetan Plateau below the Tarim basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using SAR interferometry on C band Envisat descending track and L band ALOS ascending track SAR images, respectively, we firstly obtain two coseismic deformation fields and one postseismic deformation of the 2010 Yushu earthquake, Tibet, China. In the meanwhile, we also obtain the azimuthal coseismic deformation of the Yushu event by Multi Aperture Interferometry (MAI) technique. With the 3 components of one-dimensional coseismic InSAR measurements, we resolve the complete 3-dimensional deformation of the 2010 Yushu event, which shows conformity and complexity to left lateral slip mechanism. The horizontal deformation is basically consistent with a sinistral slip event; whereas the vertical displacement does show certain level of complexity, which we argue is indicative of local fault geometry variation. Based on the InSAR data and elastic dislocation assumption, we invert for coseismic fault slip and early after-slip of the Yushu event. Our inversion results show major coseismic left lateral strike slip with only minor thrust component. The after-slip model fills most of the slip gaps left by the coseismic fault slip and finds a complementary slip distribution to the coseismic fault slip, which is a good indicator that future earthquake potential on the Yushu segment has been significantly reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To measure potential acceptability of rectal microbicides and to explore factors likely to affect their acceptability among men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: Cross-sectional and retrospective surveys were conducted in this study. A questionnaire and a scale were used to measure the acceptability score for physical and functional characteristics of hypothetical rectal microbicides. We also evaluated the involvement of other factors such as sexual behaviors, social context, etc. Results: MSMs we interviewed showed a high acceptability to rectal microbicides, indicated by the mean acceptability score of 2.92 (SD, 0.54, scale of 1–4). The results also suggested that microbicides were preferred in a cream form that can moisten and lubricate the rectum, prevent HIV infection and go unnoticed by their partners. Multivariate analysis showed that the microbicides acceptability varied significantly by education level (β = 0.135; P = 0.028), having casual partners (β = 0.174; P = 0.007), frequency of lubricant use (β = 0.134; P = 0.031), history of HIV test (β = 0.129; P = 0.036), willingness to use lubricant (β = 0.126; P = 0.045), locus of control by partners regarding STI infection (β = 0.168; P = 0.009). Conclusions: A positive response to rectal microbicides among MSMs was found in our study, suggesting that rectal microbicides might have a potential market in MSMs and they might play an important role in HIV/STIs prevention as a supplement. Further studies may be considered to combine the acceptability study with clinical research together to understand the true feelings of MSMs when they use the products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete surface deformation of 2015 Mw 8.3 Illapel, Chile earthquake is obtained using SAR interferograms obtained for descending and ascending Sentinel-1 orbits. We find that the Illapel event is predominantly thrust, as expected for an earthquake on the interface between the Nazca and South America plates, with a slight right-lateral strike slip component. The maximum thrust-slip and right-lateral strike slip reach 8.3 and 1.5 m, respectively, both located at a depth of 8 km, northwest to the epicenter. The total estimated seismic moment is 3.28 × 10 N.m, corresponding to a moment magnitude Mw 8.27. In our model, the rupture breaks all the way up to the sea-floor at the trench, which is consistent with the destructive tsunami following the earthquake. We also find the slip distribution correlates closely with previous estimates of interseismic locking distribution. We argue that positive coulomb stress changes caused by the Illapel earthquake may favor earthquakes on the extensional faults in this area. Finally, based on our inferred coseismic slip model and coulomb stress calculation, we envision that the subduction interface that last slipped in the 1922 Mw 8.4 Vallenar earthquake might be near the upper end of its seismic quiescence, and the earthquake potential in this region is urgent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2013 Mw6.8 Lushan, China earthquake occurred in the southwestern end of the Longmenshan fault zone. We jointly invert local strong motion data and geodetic measurements of coseismic surface deformation, including GPS and InSAR, to obtain a robust model of the rupture process of the 2013 Lushan earthquake. Our joint inversion best model involves the rupture of two opposing faults during the Lushan earthquake, a main fault and a secondary fault. It is only when the secondary fault is included that both the GPS and InSAR measurements are fit along with the near-field strong motion. Over 75% of the computed moment was released in slip on the main fault segment, a northwest dipping, listric thrust fault, with buried thrust and dextral strike-slip at hypocenter depths, and with only minor slip closer to the surface. The secondary fault mainly involved oblique thrust slip or pure dextral strike-slip at shallower depths, and accounts for just under 24% of the moment released in the Lushan earthquake. Coulomb stress changes of about 0.5 MPa on the secondary fault segment at the time coseismic slip initiated on that fault indicate that slip was likely triggered by the coseismic slip on the main blind thrust fault. Our coseismic slip model is consistent with a sub-horizontal and east–west to southeast–northwest trending most compressive stress. Our inferred coseismic slip model is also consistent with previous GPS derived models of strain accumulation on the Longmenshan fault system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale sports events have become a good opportunity for major enterprises to promote due to their high social attention; however, they also force enterprises to confront the risks of uncertainty and extreme loss. During the 2018 Russia World Cup, Vatti Co., Ltd.'s promotion activity "If France Wins, Get a Full Refund" suffered double losses economically and reputationally due to France's victory and the company's failure to fulfill its promise. This paper uses option hedging theory, and the risk management tools to construct a risk management model. Case analysis and program improvement were carried out. The research results show that using the winning odds can effectively control the risks. Companies should determine their promotion plan based on sale returns and the maximum implicit income generated by promotional activities. The research paper opens a new field using derivative financial instruments to control corporate promotion risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate the oncogenic effect and clinical significance of RAC2 in pancarcinoma from the perspective of tumor immunity and cancer stem cell. Methods. After in-depth mining of TCGA, GEO, UCSC, and other databases, basic information of the RAC2 gene and its expression in tumor tissues as well as the relationship between RAC2 and tumor were analyzed based on survival, mutation, immune microenvironment, tumor stemness, and enrichment analysis on related pathways. Results. RAC2 mRNA expression was increased in most tumor tissues and was associated with their prognosis. Compared to normal tissues, the RAC2 mutation rate was higher in patients with skin melanoma, uterine sarcoma, and endometrial cancer. RAC2 had a strong relation with immune cell infiltration, immunomodulators, immunotherapy markers, cancer stem cell of THYM, and immune-related pathways. Conclusions. This study explored the potential importance of RAC2 in the prognosis, immunotherapy, and cancer stem cell of 33 cancers, laying the foundation for mechanistic experiments and its future application in clinical practice. However, the results using bioinformatics methods could be affected by the differences in patients across databases. Thus, the present results were preliminary and required further experimental validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hierarchical Ni 3 S 2 @NMV-L/rGO heterostructure was prepared by heteroatom doping and electrodeposition methods. • The influences of V doping content on the electrochemical performances of NMV-L/rGO composites were investigated. • The Ni 3 S 2 @NMV-L/rGO electrode exhibits excellent specific capacity of 1412.0 C g−1 at 1 A g−1. • The assembled battery-supercapacitor hybrid (BSH) device exhibits desirable energy density of 60.0 W h kg−1 at 849.1 W kg−1. [Display omitted] Transition metal dopant engineering and rational architecture design have been proven to be effective strategies to improve the electrochemical energy storage properties of electrodes. Herein, V-doped NiMn-layered double hydroxide composites were supported on reduced graphene oxide-coated Ni foam (NMV-L/rGO) by a hydrothermal method. The influences of V content on the electrochemical performances of NMV-L/rGO composites were investigated in detail. At an optimal content of V doping (15%), the NMV-L/rGO-15 reveals enhanced electrochemical properties, and it is subsequently applied as the substrate for the electrodeposition of Ni 3 S 2 layer. Benefiting from the collaborative effect of NMV-L/rGO-15, Ni 3 S 2 , and rGO materials, as well as the unique hierarchical architecture, excellent electrochemical performance is obtained in the as-prepared Ni 3 S 2 @NMV-L/rGO-15 composite, which exhibits a high specific capacity of 1412.0 C g−1 at 1 A g−1 as well as desirable long-term stability of 89% over 5000 cycles. Furthermore, the as-fabricated battery-supercapacitor hybrid device (BSH) based on Ni 3 S 2 @NMV-L/rGO-15 and activated carbon (AC) electrodes displays a remarkable energy density of 60.0 W h kg−1 at the power density of 849.1 W kg−1 and superior capacity retention of 96% through 7000 cycles. Such excellent results indicate that the Ni 3 S 2 @NMV-L/rGO-15 composite holds great potential as electrode material for high-performance BSHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The actual lifetimes of many highways are lower than that expected based on the initial pavement design, which brings increasingly prohibitive costs of pavement maintenance and repair. Although many works have been done, the real service lifetimes are still disappointing, and the researchers are also trying their best to increase the projects' life span. In this study, to comprehensively predict the durability and lifetime of newly designed asphalt mixture structures, an asphalt pavement project consisting of three hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures were evaluated. The mixtures were constructed in the pavement project of the Weiwu expressway in Gansu Province. Pavement properties of the asphalt mixtures, rutting and temperature fatigue factors of the dynamic modulus are discussed. The fatigue resistance is supposed to improve on increasing the vehicles' speed below the freezing point, which may be more suitable for applications in expressways. Meanwhile, the lifetime is measured according to the number of fatigue axle loads calculated, which were corrected between the specimens in the lab and the field core samples. Durability analysis prediction can be obtained based on the fatigue lifetime predictive model accordingly, which can provide more information about the fatigue lifetime and the rehabilitation planning of existing pavements in the future accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Ultrasonic weld (USW) techniques for thermoplastics are used to be limited identical polymers, which obstruct the increasingly development of dissimilar polymers joining. In this study, as a direct-joining method without using environmentally unfriendly adhesives, ultrasonic thermal welding by the third phase (TWTP) was successfully proposed to join the immiscible thermoplastics. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polyformaldehyde (POM) were chosen as the work piece (WP) materials. The third phase of functionally graded material (FGM) were prepared from PMMA, POM and polylactic acid (PLA). The optimal welded strength of 47 MPa (approximately 80 % of tensile strength of POM matrix) was achieved, which is satisfied to the lightweight demand in automotive industry. Meanwhile, the welded interfacial morphology can be divided into four parts, which is related to the diffusion depths of interposed sheet (IPS) and WP molecules, respectively. Based on the interdiffusion analysis, the interdiffusion chains can give the similar configuration as that of the IPS due to the steric hindrance and Van der Waals force. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We applied a joint inversion of teleseismic data and InSAR measurements, aiming at obtaining a robust rupture process and slip distribution of the 2010 Yushu earthquake, through reducing the trade-off between slip timing and location. With the condition of the final static deformation of InSAR measurements, the rupture history can be achieved with more confidence. Surface offset constraint is also applied to our inversion. Through synthetic data inversion we find that InSAR data can resolve better fault slip at near surface depth range of 0–15km than teleseismic data; yet it has much poorer resolution at near hypocenter area, where teleseismic data has a relatively better resolution. Our final joint inversion results show that the 2010 Yushu earthquake has an essential rupture time around 20s, during which 90% of the seismic moment has been released. Two peak energy releasing moments occur at 8 and 12s after the earthquake initiation, respectively. The fault slip breaks the surface at most segments of the total 76km fault model and the maximum slip reaches 2.2m. We also find two peak-slip asperities, one at near hypocentral area, mainly distributed at depth around 10–15km; the other distributed in a large area at the eastern segments at near surface. Our most robust estimation of the seismic moment reaches 2.30×1019 N.m, equivalent to a moment magnitude of M w 6.9. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We obtained the coseismic deformation field of the Ms7.1 earthquake in Yushu, Qinghai, China on 14 April 2010 using L band and C band SAR images. The results show that the deformation fields derived from L and C bands separately are consistent in general. They are all characterized by concentric elliptic interference fringes surrounding a NW trending fault with two local intensively deformed regions. Meanwhile they have small differences in area coverage of the deformation field, magnitude of LOS displacements and other details of deformation nearby the fault. The deformation from C band and L band covers 89∗59km square and 77∗43km square, with maximum displacements of about 45cm and 65cm in the radar line of sight, respectively. Using these two kinds of InSAR measurements separately and jointly, we constructed a three-segment fault model and inverted the coseismic fault slip of the Yushu event. The inversion results show that the slip distributions constrained by the two kinds of inSAR data are in agreement on the whole. They all indicate two concentration regions of slip distribution, one is located near the Jiegu town on the southeastern segment of the Yushu fault with a large area and the maximum slip of 2.4m, and the other is at the epicenter on the northwestern segment of the fault with a relatively small area. There are also discrepancies between the two kinds of slip distribution models. In general, the scale, magnitude, and depth of slip distribution constrained by C band ASAR data are larger than that by L band PALSAR data. The slip distribution from a joint inversion of the two kinds of SAR data is considered to be the most robust model compared to the results of that constrained by L band SAR data or C band SAR data alone. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, by approximating the non-local spatial dispersal equation by an associated reaction–diffusion system, an activator–inhibitor model with non-local dispersal is transformed into a reaction–diffusion system coupled with one ordinary differential equation. We prove that, to some extent, the non-locality-induced instability of the non-local system can be regarded as diffusion-driven instability of the reaction–diffusion system for sufficiently small perturbation. We study the structure of the spectrum of the corresponding linearized operator, and we use linear stability analysis and steady-state bifurcations to show the existence of non-constant steady states which generates non-homogeneous spatial patterns. As an example of our results, we study the bifurcation and pattern formation of a modified Klausmeier–Gray–Scott model of water–plant interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Transducin-like enhancer of split 3 (TLE3), a member of the TLE gene family, is related to tumor genesis and progression. However, whether TLE3 played a crucial role in the whole pan-cancer remained unknown. Methods. Comprehensive analysis of TCGA, GEO, and GTEx data with an online tool, and R language was performed to explore the relationship of TLE3 expression between prognosis, gene mutation, protein phosphorylation, DNA methylation, tumor microenvironment, and related pathways in 33 tumors. Results. TLE3 was high-expressed in most tumors, and TLE3 expression and the prognosis of some tumor types were significantly correlated. The level of TLE3 expression in 33 cancer types was closely associated with DNA methylation. High-level phosphorylation sites of Tle3, such as S267 and S217, may promote cancers. In terms of the tumor microenvironment, TLE3 affected a wide variety of cancers, especially PRAD and LIHC, and TLE3 may act on them via immune-related pathways. Conclusions. The current work provided the first comprehensive investigation of TLE3 in a pan-cancer study, highlighting the role of TLE3 in the tumor immune microenvironment, and also determined the potential of TLE3 as a prognostic, immunotherapy response, and diagnostic biomarker in many cancers. However, the present results were preliminary and required further validation as this study was based on bioinformatics analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we study a diffusive one-prey and two-predators system with Beddington–DeAngelis functional response. The sufficient and necessary conditions for the existence of coexistence states are obtained by means of the fixed point index theory. In addition, the stability and uniqueness of coexistence states are investigated. Finally, we give the sufficient conditions for extinction and permanence of the time-dependent system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) include malignant tumors of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus, account for approximately 4% of all new cancers in world. Alcohol drinking is an established risk factor for UADT cancers, and the rate of alcohol metabolism could significantly been influenced by genetic polymorphisms of alcohol dehydrogenase-1B (ADH1B) His47Arg (rs1229984). To evaluate whether combined evidence shows ADH1B His47Arg as a common genetic variant that influenced the risk of UADT cancers, we considered all available studies in a meta-analysis. Methods: Eighteen studies were combined representing data of 8,539 cases and 15,713 controls for meta-analysis. Stratified analyses were carried out to determine the gene-environment interaction between ADH1B His47Arg and alcohol drinking and gene-gene interaction between ADH1B His47Arg and aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) Glu/Lys related to UADT cancer risk. Potential sources of heterogeneity between studies were explored; sensitivity analysis and publication bias was also evaluated. Results: The ADH1B 47Arg allele was found to be associated with increased risk of UADT cancers, the pooled odds ratios (ORs) being 1.66 (95% CI: 1.54 to 1.79) and 3.47 (95% CI: 2.76 to 4.36) for the His/Arg and Arg/Arg genotypes compared with the His/His genotype, respectively. An 18.48-fold increase in OR (95% CI: 12.95 to 26.40) for UADT cancers among alcohol drinkers with Arg/Arg genotype was found, when compared among nondrinkers with the His/His genotype. Significant interaction between carriers with ADH1B 47Arg and ALDH2 487Lys allele related to risk for UADT cancers was more evident, compared with noncarriers (OR = 10.31, 95% CI: 5.45 to 18.85). Conclusions: ADH1B 47Arg allele is a common genetic variant that increased the risk of UADT cancers; furthermore, it modulates the susceptibility to UADT cancers coupled with alcohol drinking and interaction with the ALDH2 487Lys allele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper aims to investigate the effects of welding conditions and the correlation between welding strengths and interfaces structures on the weld between polylactide (PLA) and poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Using our proposed ultrasonic weld (USW) method, PLA and PMMA composites (PLA/PMMA) are valid to employ as interposed sheet (IPS) experimentally. There are optimum welding times and welding presses depending on the peak welding strengths. The maximum welding strength can reach as high as 90% of the tensile strength of the matrix PLA, while the welding time is 4s and welding press is 0.6MPa. But excessive welding presses are deleterious to the weld, and it can also bring IPS destroying during the weld work. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We investigate the slip distribution of the 2008 May 12 Wenchuan M 7.9 earthquake using GPS data and InSAR measurements under a linear inversion scheme, with emphasis on the effect of three factors, including constraint on rake, different discretizations, and layered elastic model. Within our inversion parameterization context, we find the most influential factor would be constraint on rake. Without constraint on rake, the slip model seems physically wrong under the depth of 15 km, due to the limited depth resolution of the geodetic data used, especially the one orbit of InSAR measurements. Thus it is necessary to add a priori to the slip rake to obtain a reasonable fault source model. Different discretizations of the subfault patches have a notable impact on the slip distribution. Also, the layered elastic model predicts more slip at depth than does the half-space model, by about 15-20 per cent. The characteristics of slip distribution established through our inversions include some points as follows: (1) the most reliable results would be expected at depth range of 0-15 km; (2) three peak-slip asperities are inverted, at Yingxiu county (near epicentre), Yuejiashan county, and Beichuan county, respectively; (3) the inverted rake along the Yingxiu-Beichuan fault changes from dominantly thrusting motion at the southwest segments to dominant right-lateral or even pure right-lateral strike slip at the northeast segments, and (4) only thrust slip is occurred on the Guanxian-Jiangyou fault. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: On 21 March 2008, an Ms7.3 earthquake occurred at Yutian County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which is in the same year as 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake. These two earthquakes both took place in the Bayar Har block, while Yutian earthquake is located in the west edge and Wenchuan earthquake is in the east. The research on source characteristics of Yutian earthquake can serve to better understand Wenchuan earthquake mechanism. We attempt to reveal the features of the causative fault of Yutian shock and its co-seismic deformation field by a sensitivity-based iterative fitting (SBIF) method. Our work is based on analysis and interpretation to high-resolution satellite (Quickbird) images as well as D-InSAR data from the satellite Envisat ASAR, in conjunction with the analysis of seismicity, focal mechanism solutions and active tectonics in this region. The result shows that the 22km long, nearly NS trending surface rupture zone by this event lies on a range-front alluvial platform in the Qira County. It is characterized by distinct linear traces and a simple structure with 1–3m-wide individual seams and maximum 6.5m width of a collapse fracture. Along the rupture zone are seen many secondary fractures and fault-bounded blocks by collapse, exhibiting remarkable extension. The co-seismic deformation affected a big range 100km×40km. D-InSAR analysis indicates that the interferometric deformation field is dominated by extensional faulting with a small strike-slip component. Along the causative fault, the western wall fell down and the eastern wall, that is the active unit, rose up, both with westerly vergence. The maximum subsidence displacement is ∼2.6m in the LOS, and the maximum uplift is 1.2m. The maximum relative vertical dislocation reaches 4.1m, which is 10km distant from the starting rupture point to south. The 42km-long seismogenic fault in the subsurface extends in NS direction as an arc, and it dipping angle changes from 70° near the surface to 52° at depth ∼10km. The slip on the fault plane is concentrated in the depth range 0–8km, forming a belt of length 30km along strike on the fault plane. There are three areas of concentrating slip, in which the largest slip is 10.5m located at the area 10km distant from the initial point of the rupture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: According to our proposed weld method and apparatus, the welding conditions and strengths between heterogeneous materials of polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) and ductile polycarbonate (PC) have been studied. The functional gradient interposed sheet (IPS) prepared from three layers is valid for weld according to its excellent mechanics properties. Excessively long welding time has brought IPS cracking and air bubbles at local part of interfaces. Weld under higher welding stress can enlarge the welding areas and remove air bubbles so as to enhance the strength. Therefore, enlarging welding areas and reducing the air bubbles are very important to improve the welding strengths. The effective welding conditions are the shorter welding time and higher welding stress. According to our study, the novel welding method is effective for heterogeneous materials weld. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: At present, morphological characteristics of oocyst is the only achievable method for the identification of bovine coccidia to the species level. In this study, the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1) region of ribosomal RNA genes of six bovine Eimeria species; E. alabamensis, E. auburnensis, E. bovis, E. cylindrica, E. ellipsoidalis and E. zuernii, were sequenced and analyzed the phylogenetic relationship among them. In pair-wise alignment, the sequences among the same species had high homology of over 90%. E. bovis and E. zuernii were closely related within the same cluster. This cluster and E. alabamensis were distant from major cluster of bovine coccidia that included E. auburnensis, E. cylindrica and E. ellipsoidalis. Species-specific PCR assays based on the amplification of the ITS-1 region were also developed to identify the 6 pathogens. The ITS-1 region of each Eimeria species had sufficient inter-specific sequence variation enough to design the primer sets that differentially amplified each target species. This PCR assay for the detection and differentiation of Eimeria parasite showed higher sensitivity when compared to the conventional oocyst-morphological examination. This is the first attempt for the identification of 6 bovine Eimeria parasites in the genomic level and may provide as useful methods for diagnosis and epidemiology of bovine coccidial infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are closely related apicomplexan parasites. The surface antigen 1 of T. gondii (TgSAG1) is a major immunodominant antigen and, therefore, is considered to be a good candidate for the development of an effective recombinant vaccine against toxoplasmosis. In this study, N. caninum stably expressing the TgSAG1 gene (Nc/TgSAG1) was constructed using pyrimethamine-resistant DHFR-TS and GFP genes as double-selection markers. The expression level, molecular weight, and antigenic property of recombinant TgSAG1 expressed by the Nc/TgSAG1 were similar to those of the native TgSAG1. The mice immunized with Nc/TgSAG1 induced TgSAG1-specific Th1-dominant immune responses and protected the mice from a lethal challenge infection with T. gondii. These results indicate that N. caninum may provide a new tool for the production of a live recombinant vector vaccine against toxoplasmosis in animals. To our knowledge, this is the first report to evaluate the usefulness of N. caninum-based live vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Oesophageal cancer is one of the most common and deadliest cancers worldwide. Our previous population-based study reported a high prevalence of oesophageal cancer in Chaoshan, Guangdong Province, China. Ancestors of the Chaoshan population migrated from the Taihang Mountain region of north-central China, which is another high-incidence area for oesophageal cancer. The purpose of the present study was to obtain evidence of inherited susceptibility to oesophageal cancer in the Chaoshan population, with reference to the Taihang Mountain population, with the eventual goal of molecular identification of the disease genes. Methods: We conducted familial correlation, commingling, and complex segregation analyses of 224 families from the Chaoshan population and 403 families from the Taihang population using the FPMM program of S.A.G.E. version 5.3.0. A second analysis focused on specific families having large numbers of affected individuals or early onset of the disease. Results: For the general population, moderate sib-sib correlation was noticed for esophageal cancer. Additionally, brother-brother correlation was even higher. Commingling analyses indicated that a three-component distribution model best accounts for the variation in age of onset of oesophageal cancer, and that a multifactorial model provides the best fit to the general population data. An autosomal dominant mode and a dominant or recessive major gene with polygenic inheritance were found to be the best models of inherited susceptibility to oesophageal cancer in some large families. Conclusions: The current results provide evidence for inherited susceptibility to oesophageal cancer in certain high-risk groups in China, and support efforts to identify the susceptibility genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reasonable choice of electrode materials and rational design of structures are two effective means to improve the electrochemical properties of supercapacitors. Herein, a series of NiSe 2 /MnSe (NMSe) battery-type electrode materials with different morphologies are attached to reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-coated Ni foam (NF) through controlling the selenization reaction temperature (NMSe/rGO). Benefiting from the unique 2D/3D architecture with 2D nanosheets and 3D nanospheres, the synergistic effects between the composites as well as the high electrical conductivity of rGO, the obtained electrode delivers the optimum electrochemical performance after selenization at 140 °C (NMSe/rGO-140). As a result, the NMSe/rGO-140 composite displays ultrahigh specific capacity of 1450.7 C g−1 at 1 A g−1 along with the advantageous long cycle stability of 87% at 10 A g−1 over 8000 cycles. Moreover, a battery-supercapacitor hybrid (BSH) device prepared using NMSe/rGO-140 (positive) and active carbon (negative) exhibits a maximum energy density of 51.4 W h kg−1 at 800.7 W kg−1 combined with outstanding capacity retention of 100% through 8000 cycles. With such prominent electrochemical behaviors, the NMSe/rGO-140//AC BSH possesses great potential utilization for high-energy storage devices. [Display omitted] • A novel multi-dimensional structured NiSe 2 /MnSe/rGO composite was prepared. • Selenization temperature has a pronounced influence on electrochemical performance. • The optimized 2D/3D electrode presents the specific capacity of 1450.7 C g−1. • The assembled BSH device exhibits outstanding energy density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ni 3 S 2 /CoAl-LDH/rGO heterostructures were prepared via hydrothermal and electrodeposition methods. • The influences of different mass loading of Ni 3 S 2 on morphology and electrochemical performances are investigated. • The optimized electrode delivers excellent specific capacitance of 2457.5 F g−1. • The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits an outstanding energy density and a high cycling stability. [Display omitted] Three-dimensional hierarchical hybrid composites incorporating both CoAl-layered double hydroxide and Ni 3 S 2 grown onto the framework of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on Ni foam were successfully fabricated by hydrothermal procedure combined with electrodeposition method (Ni 3 S 2 /CoAl-LDH/rGO). The Ni 3 S 2 nanoplates was anchored on the surface of the CoAl-LDH/rGO nanosheets, forming a cross linked core-shell structure. Electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the outer Ni 3 S 2 layer can significantly influence the morphology and electrochemical properties of the hybrid electrodes. Benefiting from its attractive structural feature and strong synergy of multiple components, excellent results were obtained in the composite with the optimal mass loading of Ni 3 S 2 layer, which exhibited an excellent specific capacitance of 2457.5 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and a desirable cycling behavior of 90.0% retention over 5000 cycles. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor using Ni 3 S 2 /CoAl-LDH/rGO as positive electrode and active carbon as negative electrode delivers a high energy density of 59.8 W h kg−1 at a power density of 402.8 W kg−1 and a good cycling property (91% capacitance retention after 8000 cycles). These encouraging results demonstrate that such hybrid nanostructure provides great potential as electrode material for the energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A cDNA encoding the Babesia bovis 12D3 antigen homologue was obtained by immunoscreening the expression library prepared from Babesia gibsoni merozoite mRNA. The complete nucleotide sequence of the gene was 1406bp. Computer analysis suggested that the sequence contains an open reading frame of 1052bp encoding an expected protein with a molecular weight of 36kDa. Based on homology analysis, this putative protein was designated as the B. gibsoni 12D3 antigen (Bg12D3). The Bg12D3 gene was expressed in the Escherichia coli BL21 strain, and the chronically infected dog serum reacted with the recombinant protein. The antiserum against the recombinant Bg12D3 protein can recognize a 38-kDa native protein, which is consistent with its expected size. Moreover, the purified recombinant proteins were used as the antigen to detect the antibody response in an experimentally infected dog by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results indicated that the Bg12D3 protein was recognized by the host immune system and that it induced an antibody response in chronic B. gibsoni infection. These results allowed us to identify a new member of the 12D3 antigens and its characteristic immune response in canine B. gibsoni infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• MnSe 2 /CoSe 2 /rGO composites were synthesized by an ion-exchange strategy. • The optimized electrode displays excellent specific capacity of 1138 C g−1. • High rate capability of 80% is maintained as the current density increases by 50 times. • The assembled hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) exhibits desirable energy density. ga1 Currently, bimetallic transition metal selenides have allured great attention as battery-like electrode materials for hybrid supercapacitors on account of their lower band gap and preferable electrical conductivity. Herein, a series of MnSe 2 /CoSe 2 (MCSe) with nanosheets structure were rationally synthesized on rGO-coated Ni foam (MCSe/rGO) by employing the simple two-pot hydrothermal strategy with manganese cobalt oxide as precursor followed by a selenization treatment with various selenization times. The time-dependent experiments indicate that the selenization time plays an important role in forming the morphologies and the electrochemical behaviors of MCSe/rGO composites. Remarkably, the MCSe/rGO composite with the optimal selenization time (MCSe-3 h/rGO) exhibits an excellent specific capacity of 1138 C g−1 at 1 A g−1, predominant rate performance of 80% even at 50 A g−1 along with exceptional cycling behavior of 98.5% through 5000 cycles. Additionally, by integrating the as-obtained MCSe-3 h/rGO as anode with activated carbon (AC) as cathode, a hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) was constructed and performed a desirable energy density of 45.8 W h kg−1 at the power density of 853.1 W kg−1 and 100% capacity retention over 7000 cycles. The remarkable electrochemical properties show that the MCSe-3 h/rGO composite as a battery-like electrode material holds substantial potential for energy storage applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional coseismic surface deformation fields are important for quantifying the geometric and kinematic characteristics of earthquake rupture faults. However, traditional geodetic techniques are constrained by intrinsic limitations: Interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) can only extract far-field deformation fields owing to incoherence; global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs) can only acquire displacement at discrete points. The recently developed optical pixel correlation technique, which is based on high-resolution remote sensing images, can acquire near-field coseismic horizontal deformation. In this study, InSAR line-of-sight (LOS) and azimuth direction far-field deformation, horizontal near-field deformation determined using optical pixel correlation based on pre- and post-earthquake GaoFen (GF)-2/7 images, and vertical deformation determined by differencing pre- and post-earthquake GF-7 digital elevation models (DEMs) were combined to comprehensively provide the three-dimensional deformation field of the 2022 Mw 6.6 Menyuan earthquake. The results show that the near-field deformation field calculated by optical pixel correlation quantified displacements distributed over the rupture fault zone, which were not available from the InSAR deformation maps. We identified significant vertical displacements of ~1–1.5 m at a bend region, which were induced by local compressive stress. The maximum uplift (>2.0 m) occurred near the epicenter, on the southern sides of the main and secondary faults along the middle segment of the ruptured Lenglongling fault. In addition, surface two-dimensional strain derived from the displacement maps calculated by optical pixel correlation revealed high strain concentration on the rupture fault zone. The method described herein provides a new tool for a better understanding of the characteristics of coseismic surface deformation and rupture patterns of faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A strong motion seismometer is a kind of inertial sensor, and it can record middle- to high-frequency ground accelerations. The double-integration from acceleration to displacement amplifies errors caused by tilt, rotation, hysteresis, non-linear instrument response, and noise. This leads to long-period, non-physical baseline drifts in the integrated displacements. GNSS enables the direct observation of the ground displacements, with an accuracy of several millimeters to centimeters and a sample rate of 1 Hz to 50 Hz. Combining GNSS and a strong motion seismometer, one can obtain an accurate displacement series. Typically, a Kalman filter is adopted to integrate GNSS displacements and strong motion accelerations, using the empirical values of noise uncertainty. Considering that there are significantly different errors introduced by the above-mentioned tilt, rotation, hysteresis, and non-linear instrument response at different stations or at different times at the same station, it is inappropriate to employ a fixed noise uncertainty for strong motion accelerations. In this paper, we present a Sage–Husa Kalman filter, where the noise uncertainty of strong motion acceleration is adaptively estimated, to integrate GNSS and strong motion acceleration for obtaining the displacement series. The performance of the proposed method was validated by a shake table simulation experiment and the GNSS/strong motion co-located stations collected during the 2023 Mw 7.8 and Mw 7.6 earthquake doublet in southeast Turkey. The experimental results show that the proposed method enhances the adaptability to the variation of strong motion accelerometer noise level and improves the precision of integrated displacement series. The displacement derived from the proposed method was up to 28% more accurate than those from the Kalman filter in the shake table test, and the correlation coefficient with respect to the references arrived at 0.99. The application to the earthquake event shows that the proposed method can capture seismic waveforms at a promotion of 46% and 23% in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively, compared with the results of the Kalman filter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease with unknown etiology that is considered to be related to environmental and genetic factors. The aim of this study was to clarify the oral microflora characteristics of pSS patients and to reveal the connection between oral bacterial composition and dental caries using a high-throughput sequencing technique. Methods: Thirty-five pSS patients and 20 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. We collected saliva and plaque samples from pSS patients and saliva samples from healthy controls. We used 16S ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA) high-throughput sequencing targeting the V3–V4 hypervariable region to determine the composition and structure of the microbiota in the three sample sets. Finally, bioinformatics analyses, including the diversity of the microbiota, species differences, and functional prediction were performed. Results: In the alpha diversity and beta diversity analysis, the Chao1 (P < 0.01), observed species (P < 0.01), and PD whole tree indices (P < 0.01) were significantly lower in the saliva and plaque samples of pSS patients than in the saliva samples of healthy controls, but the Shannon (P < 0.01) and Simpson indices (P < 0.01) were significantly higher in the healthy controls, and their total diversity significantly differed. In the main flora composition at the genus level (top 10), we identified Prevotella and Veillonella as more enriched in the saliva of pSS patients and Fusobacterium, Actinomyces, and Leptotrichia as more enriched in the plaque of pSS patients. Predictive functional analysis showed that the oral microbiota of pSS patients was related to translation, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, and nucleotide metabolism. Conclusions: The oral microbial ecology of patients with pSS is dysregulated, resulting in a decrease in overall diversity. Prevotella and Veillonella may be related to pSS, while Fusobacterium, Actinomyces, and Leptotrichia may be related to dental caries in pSS patients. Key Points • This study revealed differences in the oral microbial composition of patients with pSS compared to healthy controls. • We included a plaque group of pSS patients to identify the microbiota related to pSS and dental caries. • Prevotella and Veillonella may contribute to pSS, and Fusobacterium, Actinomyces, and Leptotrichia are associated with dental caries in pSS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shear strength of damage zone, representing the stress threshold for rupture initiation, is a critical parameter in faulting mechanics. Despite its significance, the damage‐zone's shear strength has not been estimated in natural earthquake ruptures. Here we employed coseismic deformation and strain, kinematic slip model, and finite element modeling to determine the elastic properties and peak shear stress of coseismic damage zones along the 2021 Mw 7.4 Maduo earthquake. Through the analysis of the lowest shear stress resulting in surface ruptures and the highest stress without surface rupture, we constrained the strength within a range of 7–17 MPa. Our result is consistent with strength (5–16 MPa) of sandstone samples from laboratory tests, demonstrating the validity of this estimation. Although factors such as fault maturity and confining pressure influence strength variation, the strength can directly reflect the stress threshold required for macroscopic surface rupture formation in fault damage zones dominated by sandstone. Plain Language Summary: Shear strength of a fault damage zone inform us its ability to withstand shear stress before surface rupture occurs. This information often provides insights into the earthquakes rupture hazards near the Earth's surface. Natural earthquakes provide a perfect opportunity for us to address the question of "what is the shear strength of a fault damage zone." To this end, we require a set of comparative references: the utmost shear stress that a damage zone can withstand without surface rupture and the minimal one necessary for the zone to generate surface rupture. In this investigation, we studied the 2021 Maduo earthquake because it had multiple distinct surface rupture segments in some places but not in others. By comparing shear stress in these segments, we could figure out how strong the damage zones were. We used real observations and numerical simulations to estimate how much stress these damage zones can withstand. Our results indicate that, for damage zones embedded in intact sandstone with a Young's modulus of 15 GPa, its strength ranges from 7 to 17 MPa. Significantly, our study is the first to reveal the shear strength of damage zone from a nutural earthquake using geodetic data. Key Points: Shear modulus and shear stress for coseismic damage zone were determined using coseismic deformation and finite element modelEstimated shear strength from overlap range of coseismic stress between surface rupture and non‐rupture parts ranges from 7 to 17 MPaShear strength exhibits positive and negative correlations with confining pressure and fault maturity, respectively [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]