Search

With the development of detrital zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotope analysis as conventional sedimentological research methods, a large number of studies have been conducted in the Tarim, West Kunlun, Tajik, Pamir and Tianshuihai regions and abundant data have been accumulated. Summarizing these data to characterize sedimentary units and source regions is more important than local studies of specific geological epochs; therefore, we compiled a database of detrital zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotope analyses from the Tarim, West Kunlun, Pamir, Tajik and Tianshuihai terranes. The database contains data from 90 papers, including 35,281 individual U–Pb ages and 4,181 Hf isotope analyses. The database records the literature source, petrologic sample information, regional geological information, geographic coordinates and analytical parameters for each data point in as much detail as possible to allow readers to review, process, analyse and use the data. The database relies on the Deep‐time Digital Earth (DDE) platform and uses an open database update system to enable sharing and collaborative building. We encourage other researchers to contribute relevant published data to facilitate wider use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaotic systems have good characteristics, such as sensitivity to initial value and parameter, ergodicity, certainty and so on. Using chaos to generate pseudo-random sequences for encryption has good efficiency and security. However, due to the limitation of computing precision, the chaotic sequence running on the computer will enter a cycle after several times of iterations. In this paper, a control method is proposed to reduce this phenomenon. In this method, one chaotic map is used to adjust the parameters of another chaotic map, which makes the sequence generated by this model has good dynamic characteristics under a low computing precision. To prove the effectiveness of this model, two examples are provided. Furthermore, the dynamical performances of these two chaotic systems have been demonstrated by a series of analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of ATP6AP1 in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains elusive despite its observed upregulation in pan-cancer. Therefore, the current study aimed to assess the clinical significance of ATP6AP1 and its relationship with the immune infiltration in CRC. Transcriptome data of CRC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and analyzed using the combination of R packages and tumor-related databases, including TIMER2, TISIDB, cBioPortal, and MethSurv. The tissue arrays and immunohistochemical staining were performed to verify the expression and clinical characteristics of ATP6AP1. The results revealed that ATP6AP1 expression was significantly elevated in CRC and associated with poor clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis. Furthermore, the analysis demonstrated ATP6AP1 expression was correlated with the infiltration of immune cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts in the microenvironment of CRC. Moreover, ATP6AP1 was found to be linked to various immune checkpoints and chemokines, with enrichment of cytoplasmic vesicle lumen, endopeptidase regulator activity, and endopeptidase inhibitor activity observed in the high ATP6AP1 expressional group. In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that ATP6AP1 upregulation may serve as a biomarker for poor diagnosis in CRC and offer a potential target for immunotherapy in CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stress caused by calcium–magnesium–alumino–silicate (CMAS) corrosion is a critical factor in thermal barrier failure of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs). For the service safety of TBCs, it is important to characterize the stress inside TBCs during CMAS corrosion using a nondestructive and accurate method. In this study, photoluminescence spectroscopy technology was applied to characterize the stress in TBCs during CMAS corrosion. First, TBC specimens containing yttrium–aluminum–garnet doped with trace Ce3+ ions (YAG:Ce3+)/yttrium oxide partially stabilized zirconia double‐ceramic‐layer were prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying. Then, CMAS corrosion experiments were performed using the TBC specimens, and a mechanical model was derived based on Ce3+ photoluminescence spectroscopy to investigate the stress in the TBCs. Finally, the microstructure, extent of CMAS corrosion and stress field in TBC specimens, was characterized. The results reveal that the penetration of CMAS leads to local stress concentration and a nonlinear stress distribution from the outside surface to the inside of the YAG:Ce3+ layer. In addition, an increase in corrosion time, temperature, and CMAS concentration can significantly influence the evolution of the stress field in TBCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a novel method for the online measurement of multi-point opening distances of midpalatal sutures during a rapid palatal expansion (RPE) using fiber optic Fabry–Perot (F–P) sensors. The sensor consists of an optical fiber with a cut flat end face and an optical reflector, which are implanted into the palatal base structure of an expander and is capable of measuring the precise distance between two optical reflective surfaces. As a demonstration, a 3D-printed skull model containing the maxilla and zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) was produced and a miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expander (MARPE) with two guide rods was used to generate the midpalatal suture expansion. The reflected spectrums of the sensors were used to dynamically extract cavity length information for full process monitoring of expansion. The dynamic opening of the midpalatal suture during the gradual activation of the expander was measured, and a displacement resolution of 2.5 μm was demonstrated. The angle of expansion was derived and the results suggested that the midpalatal suture was opened with a slight V-type expansion of 0.03 rad at the first loading and subsequently expanded in parallel. This finding might be useful for understanding the mechanical mechanisms that lead to different types of expansion. The use of a fiber optic sensor for mounting the rapid palatal expander facilitates biomechanical studies and experimental and clinical evaluation of the effects of RPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To construct and test a nomogram based on intra- and peritumoral radiomics and clinical factors for predicting malignant BiRADS 4 lesions on contrast-enhanced spectral mammography. Methods: A total of 884 patients with BiRADS 4 lesions were enrolled from two centers. For each lesion, five ROIs were defined using the intratumoral region (ITR), peritumoral regions (PTRs) of 5 and 10 mm around the tumor, and ITR plus PTRs of 5 mm and 10 mm. Five radiomics signatures were established by LASSO after selecting features. A nomogram was built using selected signatures and clinical factors by multivariable logistic regression analysis. The performance of the nomogram was assessed with the AUC, decision curve analysis, and calibration curves, and also compared with the radiomics model, clinical model, and radiologists. Results: The nomogram built by three radiomics signatures (constructed from ITR, 5 mm PTR, and ITR + 10 mm PTR) and two clinical factors (age and BiRADS category) showed powerful predictive ability in internal and external test sets with AUCs of 0.907 and 0.904, respectively. The calibration curves, decision curve analysis, showed favorable predictive performance of the nomogram. In addition, radiologists improved the diagnostic performance with the help of nomogram. Conclusion: The nomogram established via intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics features and clinical risk factors had the best performance in distinguishing benign and malignant BiRADS 4 lesions, which could help radiologists improve diagnostic capabilities. Key Points: • Radiomics features from peritumoral regions in contrast-enhanced spectral mammography images may provide valuable information for the diagnosis of benign and malignant breast imaging reporting and data system category 4 breast lesions. • The nomogram incorporated intra- and peritumoral radiomics features and clinical variables have good application prospects in assisting clinical decision-makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LEO satellite mega-constellation projects have been proposed by many countries or commercial organizations in recent years. With more than 2000 satellites launched by SpaceX to configure the Starlink system, the orbital resources are more constrained given the existence of spacecrafts and countless orbital debris. Due to this, the operating environment is full of uncertainty and information symmetry is absent for designers and stakeholders during the process of project deployment. The flux model of space debris on orbit has been built for assessing the LEO operation environment. Based on the orbital debris flux model, the collision probability can be calculated, which is an important variable of the state space. Given the condition that tge number of satellites decreases due to collision between satellites and debris, the Markov decision model has been built for optimal deployment strategy and decision-making. In order to assure that the mega-constellation system could provide services when satellites have failed, additional satellites need to be launched. The optimal deployment is the decision to launch a moderate number of satellites to maximize the benefit and minimize the cost. Assuming that at least 30 satellites need to be operated, 4 deployment scenarios are considered and the optimal deployment strategies can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hierarchical MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO hybrid exhibited outstanding electromagnetic wave absorption performance stemming from the synergistic effect of well-matched impedance and enhanced dielectric loss. [Display omitted] • MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO are fabricated through a microwave-irradiated thermal reduction process. • The conductivity and polarization relaxation of hybrids can be regulated effectively. • The ultra-wide EAB of 7.04 GHz for S3 can be obtained. In consideration of the growing electromagnetic wave (EMW) pollution and interference, it is of crucial and imperative significance to develop high-efficiency EMW absorption materials. Herein, hierarchical hybrid network of MoS 2 @poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were successfully constructed and fabricated through the combination of oxidative polymerization and microwave-irradiated thermal reduction. The original defects in graphene oxide (GO) could be in situ repaired by introducing carbon source, and the rational regulation of polarization relaxation and conductivity of composites could be achieved. Profiting from the good impedance matching, ameliorated conductivity and enhanced dipole polarization as well as interfacial polarization by introducing GO/defect-recovered rGO and conductive PEDOT, both the MoS 2 @PEDOT/GO and MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO composites exhibited outstanding EMW absorption performances. In details, the minimum reflection loss (RL min) and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of MoS 2 @PEDOT/GO can reach −48.65 dB at 4.5 mm, and 6.48 GHz (11.52–18 GHz) at 2.2 mm, respectively. And the EAB of MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO can reach 7.04 GHz (10.8–17.84 GHz) with an optimized RL min of −32.41 dB at 2.1 mm under 20 wt% filler loading. Therefore, these composites can be regarded as competitive candidates for lightweight and high-efficient EMW absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hierarchical MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO hybrid exhibited outstanding electromagnetic wave absorption performance stemming from the synergistic effect of well-matched impedance and enhanced dielectric loss. [Display omitted] • MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO are fabricated through a microwave-irradiated thermal reduction process. • The conductivity and polarization relaxation of hybrids can be regulated effectively. • The ultra-wide EAB of 7.04 GHz for S3 can be obtained. In consideration of the growing electromagnetic wave (EMW) pollution and interference, it is of crucial and imperative significance to develop high-efficiency EMW absorption materials. Herein, hierarchical hybrid network of MoS 2 @poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were successfully constructed and fabricated through the combination of oxidative polymerization and microwave-irradiated thermal reduction. The original defects in graphene oxide (GO) could be in situ repaired by introducing carbon source, and the rational regulation of polarization relaxation and conductivity of composites could be achieved. Profiting from the good impedance matching, ameliorated conductivity and enhanced dipole polarization as well as interfacial polarization by introducing GO/defect-recovered rGO and conductive PEDOT, both the MoS 2 @PEDOT/GO and MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO composites exhibited outstanding EMW absorption performances. In details, the minimum reflection loss (RL min) and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of MoS 2 @PEDOT/GO can reach −48.65 dB at 4.5 mm, and 6.48 GHz (11.52–18 GHz) at 2.2 mm, respectively. And the EAB of MoS 2 @PEDOT/rGO can reach 7.04 GHz (10.8–17.84 GHz) with an optimized RL min of −32.41 dB at 2.1 mm under 20 wt% filler loading. Therefore, these composites can be regarded as competitive candidates for lightweight and high-efficient EMW absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camptothecin (CPT), first isolated from Chinese tree Camptotheca acuminate, produces rapid and prolonged inhibition of DNA synthesis and induction of DNA damage by targeting topoisomerase I (top1), which is highly activated in cancer cells. CPT thus exhibits remarkable anticancer activities in various cancer types, and is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of cancers. However, it remains to be uncovered underlying its cytotoxicity toward germ cells. In this study we found that CPT, a cell cycle-specific anticancer agent, reduced fecundity and exhibited significant cytotoxicity toward GSCs and two-cell cysts. We showed that CPT induced GSC loss and retarded two-cell cysts differentiation in a niche- or apoptosis-independent manner. Instead, CPT induced ectopic expression of a differentiation factor, bag of marbles (Bam), and regulated the expression of cyclin A, which contributed to GSC loss. In addition, CPT compromised two-cell cysts differentiation by decreasing the expression of Bam and inducing cell arrest at G1/S phase via cyclin A, eventually resulting in two-cell accumulation. Collectively, this study demonstrates, for the first time in vivo, that the Bam–cyclin A axis is involved in CPT-mediated germline stem cell loss and two-cell cysts differentiation defects via inducing cell cycle arrest, which could provide information underlying toxicological effects of CPT in the productive system, and feature its potential to develop as a pharmacology-based germline stem cell regulation agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disturbances in circadian rhythms are known to affect immune functions. However, the long-term impact of abnormal circadian rhythms on the immune-related functions of the spleen are poorly understood. Hence, we aimed to investigate the immune-related functions of spleen in Per1/Per2 double-knockout (DKO) and wild-type (WT) mice aged 4, 9, and 14 months. Compared to the WT mice, the DKO mice had smaller spleen white pulp (WP) and lymphocyte germinal area, as well as fewer immune cells with age—these differences were especially clear. The spleen lymphocyte mortality, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and ferritin-binding receptor (TFR1) levels were significantly higher in the 14-month-old DKO mice than in WT mice of the same age. Transcriptome analysis showed that most of the differentially expressed mRNAs were enriched in DNA damage repair-related pathways. In DKO mice, spleen cells showed up-regulation of pro-ferroptosis genes, such as Cd36,Atm, and Acsl4, and down-regulation of anti-ferroptosis genes, such as GPX4. We found that long-term abnormalities in the circadian rhythm can induce DNA damage and ferroptosis in mouse spleen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit black spot (FBS), a fungal disease of pecan (Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh) K. Koch) caused by the pathogen Pestalotiopsis microspora, is a serious disease and poses a critical threat to pecan yield and quality. However, the details of pecan responses to FBS infection at the transcriptional level remain to be elucidated. In present study, we used RNA-Seq to analyze differential gene expression in three pecan cultivars with varied resistance to FBS infection: Xinxuan-4 (X4), Mahan (M), and Wichita (W), which were categorized as having low, mild, and high susceptibility to FBS, respectively. Nine RNA-Seq libraries were constructed, comprising a total of 58.56 Gb of high-quality bases, and 2420, 4380, and 8754 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with |log2Fold change| ≥ 1 and p-value < 0.05 were identified between M vs. X4, W vs. M, and W vs. X4, respectively. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) metabolic pathway analyses were performed to further annotate DEGs that were part of specific pathways, which revealed that out of 134 total pathways, MAPK signaling pathway, plant–pathogen interaction, and plant hormone signal transduction were highly enriched. Transcriptomic profiling analysis revealed that 1681 pathogen-related genes (PRGs), including 24 genes encoding WRKY transcription factors, potentially participate in the process of defense against Pestalotiopsis microspora infection in pecan. The correlation of WRKY TFs and PRGs was also performed to reveal the potential interaction networks among disease-resistance/pathogenesis-related genes and WRKY TFs. Expression profiling of nine genes annotated as TIFY, WRKY TF, and disease-resistance protein-related genes was performed using qRT-PCR, and the results were correlated with RNA-Seq data. This study provides valuable information on the molecular basis of pecan–Pestalotiopsis microspora interaction mechanisms and offers a repertoire of candidate genes related to pecan fruit response to FBS infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The internal residual stress of thermal barrier coating (TBC) induced during the preparation and service process is the kernel cause of internal and interfacial failure and even the structure damage and destruction. Therefore, the accurate characterization of the internal stress is of great significance for TBC property and life evaluation. Fluorescence piezo‐spectroscopic technology has been used to realize the nondestructive measurement of the TBC internal stress. However, the sensitivity of the existing Eu3+/Cr3+ fluorescence, namely, the piezo‐spectroscopic coefficient, is normally <10 cm−1/GPa. There is still an urgent need to develop a sensitive method or material of piezo‐spectroscopy for the precision measurement of the TBC internal stress. This paper used Ce3+ as a sensing medium to detect stress. YAG:Ce3+ was applied as the top‐coating material of TBC. Then, calibration experiments of the piezo‐spectroscopic coefficient were carried out. The results demonstrated that the obtained Ce3+ piezo‐spectroscopic coefficient can be up to 4.48 cm−1/MPa, almost three magnitudes larger than other existing fluorescence piezo‐spectroscopic technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A serial oxygen vacancy (OV) on Nb2O5 is synthesised by H2 calcination, and H-300 exhibited high selectivity and activity for H2O2 (93.4%, 562.5 mmol gcat−1). A volcano relationship is identified between the OV content and performance, which provides an attractive insight into designing electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) working fluid with high global warming potential are step out of the stage of history due to the intensifying global greenhouse effect. Supercritical water gasification (SCWG), an effective and clean waste disposal method, may have better potential for the conversion of waste HFCs working fluid. ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamic and density functional theory method are used in this work to investigate the SCWG mechanism of HFC-245fa. The results indicate that the main products of HFC-245fa SCWG are high value-added chemicals and fuels such as CO, CO 2 , H 2 , and HF. During the gasification process, almost 100 % of the F atoms in HFC-245fa have the potential to become HF, which means that the SCWG method has a strong defluorination effect. The generation of H 2 molecules is promoted and the formation of CO molecule is inhibited in the presence of H 2 O molecules. More importantly, hydrogen bonds are formed between HFC-245fa and H 2 O molecules, which results in the dissociation of HFC-245fa is improved by the SCWG environment. This work provides an available and environmentally friendly route for the efficient conversion of waste HFCs to fuels. [Display omitted] • Supercritical water gasification method has a better defluorination effect. • Almost 100 % of the F atoms in HFC-245fa have the potential to become HF. • Hydrogen bonds promote the decomposition of HFC-245fa and H 2 O molecules. • HF, H 2 and CO rich products could be selectively produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, carbon nanotubes have been widely used as supporting materials for semiconductor photocatalysts due to their excellent electron and mass transportation. Herein, we prepared a novel SWCNT-decorated Ti3+-B co-doped TiO 2 /BN (STBN) photocatalyst with the presence of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) during the hybridization of BN and TiB 2. The effects of SWCNTs on the structural and photocatalytic properties were investigated. Adding SWCNTs enables excellent multifunctional photocatalytic performances (N 2 fixation, H 2 production, and MO degradation) compared with the TBN synthesized in the previous study. Introducing SWCNTs reduces the transfer resistance and makes the photogenerated carriers transfer more efficiently, thereby improving photocatalytic activity. More defect sites provide extra adsorption sites for reactants and photogenerated electrons, significantly improving the system's photocatalytic activity. The enhanced photocatalytic mechanism of SWCNT-decorated hybrid catalysts was proposed at last. [Display omitted] • SWCNT@Ti3+-B co-doped TiO 2 /BN (STBN) photocatalyst was synthesized. • The effects of SWCNTs on the structure and photocatalytic activities were investigated. • Adding SWCNTs enables excellent multifunctional photocatalytic performances. • Such enhanced photocatalytic mechanism of SWCNT-decorated hybrid catalysts was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and supercritical CO 2 (sCO 2) Brayton cycle are two key and competition technology routes as the power cycle of Lead–Bismuth micro-reactor (LBMR). However, few studies focus on the comparison of thermodynamic and economic performance between ORCs and sCO 2 cycles in nuclear micro-reactor. The objectives in this study are to perform parameters analysis and techno-economic comparison in ORCs and sCO 2 cycles with various configurations as the power cycle of LBMR, so as to provide the technical support for the selection of power cycle and its operating conditions in different scenarios. Several high/low-temperature working fluids are screened for ORCs in view to achieve high net efficiency (η th) and low electricity production cost (EPC). Multi-objective optimization is performed to solve the trade-off between η th and EPC , and then to compare the comprehensive performance of various cycles from thermodynamic, compact and economic aspects. Results show that, the η th and EPC of ORCs are comparable or superior to that in sCO 2 cycles when the two cycles have similar structures (simple/regenerative). Among the ORCs, the cascade ORC with two-side regeneration using N -Dodecane/Pentane as working fluid pair has the best performance. In all cycles, recompression sCO 2 cycle performs best, but only when the heat source temperature is higher than 460 °C, the performance of the recompression sCO 2 cycle are overall better than the cascade ORC. • Techno-economic comparison of various power cycles for LBR are conducted. • Several high/low-temperature fluids are screened in different configurations of ORC. • N -Dodecane/Pentane is the best working fluid pair for the cascade ORC2. • The η net and EPC of ORCs are slight superior to sCO 2 cycles with similar structures. • The η net and EPC of recompression sCO 2 cycle are both better than ORC when t s > 460 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A main hurdle for the commercial application of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries lies in inadequate loading of sulfur due to a huge volume change over charging–discharging, poor electric conductivity of sulfur and associated sulfides, and the shuttling effect of lithium polysulfides (LiPS). Herein, a universal "three‐region" configuration including: Region I (sulfur source region), Region II (LiPS electrocatalysis region), and Region III (multi‐functional shield) for high‐areal capacity Li–S batteries is proposed. Mechanism of the configuration including the competitive relationship between Region II and Region III based on the Sabatier principle is further confirmed through density functional theory theoretical simulation and a series of in situ experimental methods. Compared with a conventional mechanical mixing electrode structure, it is demonstrated that the orderly integration "three‐region" configuration is able to prevent shuttling of LiPS effectively, which delivers high gravimetric energy density at the sulfur loading of 10.7 mg cm−2. Furthermore, a pouch cell achieves a high capacity of 148.15 mAh at a sulfur loading of 108 mg, which is by far higher than that of most previous batteries and pouch Li–S cells. Impressively, with bending and even partial damage, the pouch cell can still work normally, showing considerable safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism caused by ATP7B (encoding a copper-transporting P-type ATPase) variants that shows various characteristics according to race and geographical region. This study was aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of ATP7B variants in China and to investigate a plausible role of common variants in WD manifestations. Methods: A total of 1366 patients (1302 index patients and 64 siblings) clinically diagnosed with WD (Leipzig score ≥ 4) were recruited. They underwent ATP7B gene sequencing and information of age and symptoms at onset was collected. The genotype–phenotype correlation was assessed in the index patients who were examined with two pathogenic variants and onset with hepatic (n = 276) or neurologic (n = 665) symptoms. Results: We identified 294 potentially pathogenic ATP7B variants (112 truncating, 174 missense, 8 in-frame) in the 1302 index patients, including 116 novel variants. The most frequent variant was c.2333G>T (R778L, allele frequency: 28.96%), followed by c.2975C>T (P992L, 13.82%), c.2621C>T (A874V, 5.99%), c.2755C>G (R919G, 2.46%), and c.3646G>A (V1216M, 1.92%). In 1167 patients, both pathogentic variants were identified, of which 532 different variant combinations were found. By binary logistic regression analysis, the factor associated with neurological presentation was high age-at-onset, but not sex, protein-truncating variant (PTV), or the common missense variants (R778L, P992L, and A874V). In the neurological group, low age-at-onset was a factor associated with dystonia, gait abnormality, and salivation; high age-at-onset was a factor associated with tremor; and the sex, low age-at-onset and A874V were independent factors associated with dysarthria. In addition, PTV, R778L, and P992L were predominant in early-onset patients, whereas A874V was predominant in late-onset patients, and patients with R778L/A874V genotype displayed a higher age-at-onset than patients with R778L/R778L or R778L/P992L genotype. Conclusions: Our work expanded the ATP7B variant spectrum and highlighted the differences among patients with WD in age-at-onset and ATP7B variants, which may provide some valuable insights into the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment of patients with WD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Wilson's disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism caused by ATP7B (encoding a copper-transporting P-type ATPase) variants that shows various characteristics according to race and geographical region. This study was aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of ATP7B variants in China and to investigate a plausible role of common variants in WD manifestations. Methods: A total of 1366 patients (1302 index patients and 64 siblings) clinically diagnosed with WD (Leipzig score ≥ 4) were recruited. They underwent ATP7B gene sequencing and information of age and symptoms at onset was collected. The genotype–phenotype correlation was assessed in the index patients who were examined with two pathogenic variants and onset with hepatic (n = 276) or neurologic (n = 665) symptoms. Results: We identified 294 potentially pathogenic ATP7B variants (112 truncating, 174 missense, 8 in-frame) in the 1302 index patients, including 116 novel variants. The most frequent variant was c.2333G>T (R778L, allele frequency: 28.96%), followed by c.2975C>T (P992L, 13.82%), c.2621C>T (A874V, 5.99%), c.2755C>G (R919G, 2.46%), and c.3646G>A (V1216M, 1.92%). In 1167 patients, both pathogentic variants were identified, of which 532 different variant combinations were found. By binary logistic regression analysis, the factor associated with neurological presentation was high age-at-onset, but not sex, protein-truncating variant (PTV), or the common missense variants (R778L, P992L, and A874V). In the neurological group, low age-at-onset was a factor associated with dystonia, gait abnormality, and salivation; high age-at-onset was a factor associated with tremor; and the sex, low age-at-onset and A874V were independent factors associated with dysarthria. In addition, PTV, R778L, and P992L were predominant in early-onset patients, whereas A874V was predominant in late-onset patients, and patients with R778L/A874V genotype displayed a higher age-at-onset than patients with R778L/R778L or R778L/P992L genotype. Conclusions: Our work expanded the ATP7B variant spectrum and highlighted the differences among patients with WD in age-at-onset and ATP7B variants, which may provide some valuable insights into the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment of patients with WD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Tibetan medicine Ganlu Formula, as a classic prescription, is widely used across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau area of China, which has a significant effect on relieving the course of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the active compounds and underlying mechanisms of Ganlu Formula in RA treatment remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to elucidate the active substances and potential mechanisms of the ethyl acetate extract of Ganlu Formula ethyl acetate extract (GLEE) in the treatment of RA. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was utilized to analyze and identify the chemical constituents within GLEE. Discovery Studio molecular virtual docking technology was utilized to dock the interaction of GLEE with inflammation-related pathway proteins. The GLEE gene library was obtained by transcriptome sequencing. Collagen-induced arthritic（CIA) rats were utilized to assess the antiarthritic efficacy of GLEE. Micro-CT imaging was employed to visualize the rat paw, and ultrasound imaging revealed knee joint effusion. Evaluation of synovial tissue pathological changes was conducted through hematoxylin-eosin staining and saffranine solid green staining, while immunohistochemical staining was employed to assess NLRP3 expression along with inflammatory markers. Immunofluorescence staining was utilized to identify M1 macrophages. Metabolomic analysis via UPLC-Q-TOF-MS identified 28 potentially bioactive compounds in GLEE, which interacted with the active sites of key proteins such as NLRP3, NF-κB, and STAT3 through hydrogen bonds, C–H bonds, and electrostatic attractions. In vitro analyses demonstrated that GLEE significantly attenuated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and inhibited the polarization of bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) towards the M1 phenotype. In vivo , GLEE not only prevented bone mineral density (BMD) loss but also reduced ankle swelling in CIA rats. Furthermore, it decreased the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome and curtailed the release of inflammatory mediators within the knee joint. GLEE effectively mitigated inflammatory responses in both blood and knee synovial membranes of CIA rats, potentially through the down-regulation of the NLRP3/Caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway and reduction in M1 macrophage polarization. [Display omitted] • A total of 28 potentially active compounds in GLEE were identified by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS metabolomics technology. • GLEE not only improved bone mineral density loss, but also repressed ankle swelling in CIA rats. • GLEE significantly suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and inhibited the polarization of BMDM to M1 type. • GLEE reduced the polarization of M1 macrophages by down-regulating the NLRP3/Caspase-1/IL-1β inflammatory signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the importance of components within a multiple-state uncertain random k -out-of- n system, which is called ur-m- k -out-of- n system for short. This system simultaneously contains randomness and uncertainty. The states of components exhibit polymorphism and are defined as uncertain random variables. The component importance analysis is both a prerequisite and a foundation for system reliability optimization. For this reason, the marginal reliability importance (MRI) and joint reliability importance (JRI) are proposed to examine the importance of an individual component or couple components of ur-m- k -out-of- n systems using chance theory. Some theorems are given to calculate MRI and JRI. Moreover, this paper gives several numerical examples to illustrate how to calculate MRI and JRI. • Propose component importance for a multi-state uncertain random k -out-of- n system. • Propose two-component joint importance for the above system. • Provide some formulas to calculate the importance and joint importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental system is built to study the thermal instability of supercritical CO 2 heated in vertical single-tube. The test section is heated uniformly by a DC power (0–6 kW) and the minimum Reynolds number in the test section inlet is about 8000 (it is much larger than 2300) for all cases. Under given working conditions (mass flow rate G = 240–400 kg/(m2·s), operating pressure P = 7.5–9 MPa, inlet temperature t in = 10–15 °C), the experimental results find that the working parameters generate oscillation instability once the heat flux surpasses a critical value. The maximum amplitude of the wall temperature arises in the zone of heat transfer deterioration. The mass flow rate and local wall temperature have large oscillation amplitude with more than ± 10 %. The results show that the maintenance of oscillation instability requires the existence of phase difference between inlet pressure and mass flow rate. The oscillation instability of supercritical CO 2 flowing is induced by the transition flow between turbulence and full re-laminarization, which is driven by the interaction among the expansion acceleration, buoyancy effect, inertia force, and friction force. An onset boundary of flow instability is proposed by connecting the buoyancy effect, friction force, and thermal acceleration based on hydrodynamic characteristics. The analysis results show that the buoyancy effect is the key factor for the occurrence of thermal oscillation for supercritical CO 2 heated in the vertical single-tube. • The maximum amplitude of wall temperature arises in heat transfer deterioration zone. • The thermal oscillation is caused by the change of flow state and heat transfer mode. • A criterion for judging the onset condition of the thermal oscillation is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible electronics have attracted great attention in recent years. However, the matching power sources of these flexible electronics now are mostly rigid, greatly hindering the way of all-flexible electronics. Here, a flexible photocatalytic fuel cell (fPFC) was designed to produce a stable energy output (highest power density of 40.1 mW·cm−2·g−1 in artificial sweat) while purify wasted water simultaneously. The fPFC is consisted of TiO 2 /carbon quantum dots (CQDs) photoanode and Ag cathode. The experimental results show that the combination of TiO 2 and CQDs can broaden the range of light absorption of TiO 2. Thus, the photocurrent density of TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC can reach up to 252.3 mA·cm−2·g−1, while the photocurrent density of pure TiO 2 fPFC is 87.4 mA·cm−2·g−1. The photocurrent density of TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC is 188.7% higher than that of TiO 2 fPFC. The maximum power density of TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC in flatting state is about 40.1 mW·cm−2·g−1. This TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC has better performance than fPFC in other literature. Besides, TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC in the bending state can also achieve a good performance. Four fPFCs can be easily constructed into a bracelet and generate electricity, and there is no significant change in opening voltage under flatting and bending states. This eco-friendly system has great potential in energy conservation and portable electronics, and can be applied in the following aspects: (i) wearable technology that utilizes organic waste for power generation; (ii) flexible configuration of traditional sewage treatment. A flexible photocatalytic fuel cell (fPFC) based on TiO 2 /carbon quantum dots (CQDs) photoanode has been fabricated for treating organic waste and efficiently generating electricity. The bracelet made by four bending fPFCs in series still has a high photocurrent density and power density. [Display omitted] • The prepared TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC has good performance in bending. • TiO 2 /CQDs broadens the light absorption range of pure TiO 2. • TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC can treat organic waste and produce electricity efficiently. • The TiO 2 /CQDs fPFC has high photocurrent density (252.3 mA·cm−2·g−1) and power density (40.1 mW·cm−2·g−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an uncertain random multi-state k -out-of- n system (urm- k -out-of- n system, for short), where both random components and uncertain components coexist. States of the system and components display multiplicity and are defined as uncertain random variables. Since reliability is a crucial index to reflect system performance, this paper proves some formulas to calculate the reliability of urm- k -out-of- n systems in accordance with chance theory, which have two special cases, random systems and uncertain systems. Later, a mixed algorithm for multi-valued decision diagram (MDD) and binary search is designed to assess the reliability index. Compared to the general algorithm, it operates in significantly less time when the system becomes complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the flourishing development of advanced wireless technology, the situation of electromagnetic pollution and interference is becoming increasingly severe. The research and development of efficient electromagnetic wave absorption materials is extraordinary beneficial for solving these disgusting issues. Nitrogen (N)-doped carbons have shown great advantages as absorbents, such as lightweight, high surface area, excellent hydrophilicity, unique electronic properties, etc. Herein, we provide a perspective on state-of-art advances and challenges of N-doped carbons based absorbents. The effect of N-doping on the electromagnetic wave (EWs) response are dissected from the N-configurations and concentrations, which are of significant importance in understanding of electromagnetic response. And then we center the regulation of the N-doped carbon in the EWs responses by combing the eye-catching advances in N-doped carbon based EWs absorbing nano-materials from constituents and nanostructures. Finally, the outlook and challenges of N-doped carbons as absorbents for future research are proposed. This perspective combs the electronic structures of N configurations in N-doped carbons, and their electromagnetic responses are related to the N configurations. [Display omitted] • Effect of N-doping on the electrical and dielectric properties of carbons are dissected. • Regulation of N-doped carbon in the EWs responses is combed from constituents and nanostructures. • Bottlenecks and outlook of N-doped carbons as absorbents are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• N addition had a negative effect on soil microbial biomass. • P addition had a positive effect on soil microbial biomass. • The additive effect dominated the interactive effects on soil microbial biomass. • The responses to interactive effects were largely dependent on changes in soil pH. Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are key components in biogeochemical cycling and considerable efforts have been made to understand the effects of their availability on microbial biomass. Nevertheless, the interplay between N and P supply in modulating soil microbes remains unclear. We conducted a comprehensive global analysis of 108 studies spanning boreal to tropical regions to evaluate their interactive impacts on microbial biomass. The findings revealed a significant decrease in microbial biomass with N addition, whereas P supplementation resulted in a notable increase in microbial biomass. Among the observed interactive effects, additive effects were predominant. More importantly, we found that among all of the assessed factors, the impacts of N-P interaction on soil microorganisms are dependent on changes in soil pH. In conclusion, our findings provide valuable insights into the interactive effects of N and P enrichment on microbial biomass. These findings will contribute to the development of global models that predict the impacts of N and P enrichment on soil microbes and ecosystem functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermittent cold stimulation (ICS) enhances broilers' resistance to cold stress. Nonetheless, further research is needed to investigate the underlying mechanisms that enhance cold stress resistance. A total of 160 one-day-old male Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into 2 groups (CC and CS5), with the CC group managing temperature according to the standard for broiler growth stages, while the CS5 group were subjected to cold stimulation at a temperature 3℃ lower than the CC group for 5 h, every 2 d from 15 to 35 d. Sampling was conducted at 36 d (36D), 50 d (50D) and after acute cold stress for 24 h (Y24). First, we examined the effects of ICS on broiler growth performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism. The results demonstrated that ICS enhanced the performance of broilers to a certain degree. Specifically, the average weight gain in the CS5 group was significantly higher than that of the CC group, and the feed conversion ratio significantly decreased compared to CC at 4 W and 6 W (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with the CC group, cold stimulation significantly reduced drip loss, shearing force, and yellowness (a* value) of chicken meat, while significantly increased redness (b* value) (P ≤ 0.05). At Y24, the levels of T-AOC and GSH-PX in the serum of the CS5 group were significantly higher than those of the CC group, while the level of MDA was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05). The content of TG, FFA, and VLDL in the serum of the CS5 group was significantly elevated, whereas the level of TC and HDL was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05). In addition, we further explored whether AMPK-mTOR pathway is involved in the regulation of changes in lipid metabolism and the possible regulatory mechanisms downstream of the signaling pathway. The results showed that ICS significantly upregulated the expression levels of AMPK mRNA and protein in the liver of the CS5 group at 36D and Y24, while significantly down-regulating mTOR (P ≤ 0.05). Compared with the CC group, ICS significantly down-regulated the mRNA expression levels of lipid synthesis and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (SREBP1c, FAS, SCD, ACC, GRP78 and PERK) at 36D and Y24, while significantly up-regulating the mRNA expression levels of lipid decomposition and autophagy-related genes (PPAR and LC3) (P ≤ 0.05). In addition, at Y24, the protein expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes (GRP78) in the CS5 group were significantly lower, while autophagy-related genes (LC3 and ATG7) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05). ICS can affect meat quality and lipid metabolism in broilers, and when broilers are subjected to acute cold stress, broilers trained with cold stimulation have stronger lipid metabolism capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The GBDP magnets were prepared by TbF 3 through screen printing technology. • The application of pressure can reduce diffusion time to develop core–shell structure. • The diffusion behavior and the role of F element in GBDP magnets were explored. The screen printing technology (SPT) was utilized to prepare TbF 3 coatings on Nd-Fe-B magnets. The effect of pressure-assisted grain boundary diffusion on magnetic properties and microstructure of Nd-Fe-B magnet has been intensively investigated. The results indicated that the intrinsic coercivity increment (ΔH ci) enhanced with increasing diffusion temperature and time. Meanwhile, the pressure could promote grain boundary diffusion process and shorten diffusion time obviously. Microstructural and compositional analyses indicated that the appropriate temperature and time were essential to develop the core–shell structure within a certain depth, which played a key role in the coercivity enhancement of magnet. Meanwhile, the thickness and continuity of Tb-rich shells decrease with diffusion depth. Furthermore, the pressure can strengthen the adhesion of TbF 3 coatings to base magnet, promoting the diffusion of Tb element into deeper regions and the formation of Tb-rich shells. The diffusion behavior and role of F element in magnet were also explored. The results confirmed that the diffusion depth of F was close to that of Tb element. However, the F element did not diffuse into 2:14:1 phase but formed NdOF phase distributing at grain boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of a new crosslinking (CXL) method, induced by enzymes, on porcine corneas. Corneal strip (10x3 mm) pairs obtained from 60 fresh porcine eyes were harvested and divided into four groups, Groups A-D. Each pair of corneal strips was incised from the central part of the same cornea; one was incubated in transglutaminase (Tgase) solution (microbial Tgase 2 produced by tissue engineering) and the other remained untreated as a control. CXL strips of Groups A-D were incubated with 2, 1, 0.5 and 0.25 U/ml Tgase solution, respectively at 37˚C for 30 min. After that, tensile strain measurements were performed for all strips. One cornea from each group was chosen randomly for hematoxylin and eosin, and Masson staining to identify histological morphology changes. The elastic modulus of treated corneas of Groups A-D were 6.56±2.93, 4.72±1.29, 5.24±2.13 and 3.48±1.60 MPa (mean ± SD), respectively at a strain of 20%, and had a 66, 43, 36 and -6% increase compared with those of their control strips. Compared with the control strips, the elastic modulus of the treated strips significantly increased in Groups A-C. The central corneal thickness of the treated corneas in Groups A-D were 1.54±0.14, 1.41±0.15, 1.47±0.11 and 1.43±0.13 µm, respectively; however, there was not a statistically significant difference compared with the control group. No reduction in corneal transparency was observed, and no obvious abnormalities were found in corneal morphology. CXL mediated by enzymes can lead to a notable enhancement in the biomechanical characteristics of the cornea while maintaining its structural integrity. Enzyme-induced CXL could be a new generation CXL method for strengthening the cornea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Comprehensive analysis of chestnut phenylpropanoids and flavonoids (PFs) biosynthesis. • Forty-four DAMs and 58 DEGs were annotated to PFs biosynthesis pathway. • WGCNA identifies key module involved in PFs biosynthesis. Chinese chestnut is a globally important tree nut crop. The kernels of chestnut form a rich source of phenylpropanoids and flavonoids (PFs), which are important bioactive phytochemicals with potential health and nutritional benefits. To explore the metabolic basis of PFs accumulation in Chinese chestnut kernels, untargeted metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis of four kernel developmental stages (HLS1-HLS4) were performed. In total, 455 (in positive ion mode) and 521 (in negative ion mode) differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified. Most components were classified into the categories "organic acids and derivatives", "lipids and lipid-like molecules" and "phenylpropanoids and polyketides", with twenty-five and nineteen DAMs annotated as phenylpropanoids and flavonoids respectively. Furthermore, transcriptomics analysis of the kernels was used to assess transcript expression levels. The phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway (ko00940) was significantly enriched in the comparison of HLS1-vs-HLS4, HLS2-vs-HLS3, HLS2-vs-HLS4, HLS3-vs-HLS4. Weighted gene co-expression correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was performed by integrating metabolomics and transcriptomics data to investigate the association between PFs and their structural genes, which revealed key enzyme genes (PAL, C4H, 4CL, CHS, CHI, F3H, F3′H, DFR and LAR) linked to the synthesis of PFs. In addition, key members of transcription factors families (e.g., ERFs) that potentially participate in the regulation of PFs biosynthesis by acting on structural gene promoters were screened with a correlative analysis method according to their specific expression patterns in chestnut kernels. This comprehensive data set lays a foundation for further research into the biosynthesis and metabolism of PFs, which will be valuable for genetically improving and future breeding of high-PFs Chinese chestnut varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Providing communication and internet services by mega constellation is the developing trend of the communication system. For the requirement of quick analysis of mega Walker constellation, utilizing the symmetry of the constellation, a continuous coverage analysis method is proposed based on 2D map theory. This method first calculates the minimum unit with repeated coverage performance on the 2D map according to constellation configuration parameters. Then select the satellites that determine the coverage performance of the minimum unit. Based on the phase distribution of these satellites, the overlap of their coverage regions inside the minimum unit is solved. Finally, the coverage performance of the whole constellation can be obtained. Compared with the conventional methods, this method avoids redundant calculation of inter-satellite positions and positions between the satellites and ground targets, which greatly simplifies the solving process of the coverage performance, so that the time complexity does not increase significantly with the increase of satellites. Taking the Starlink system as an example, the simulation results show that compared to the conventional method, the proposed method can obtain the coverage performance of the same precision while taking much less time. • A 2D map-based method is proposed to quickly analyze the coverage performance of mega Walker constellation. • The minimum repetition period and representative satellites are determined by the regularity of the constellation. • The coverage analysis is transformed to solving the overlap of mapping area corresponding to satellite coverage. • The time complexity of the proposed method is slightly affected by the increase of satellite quantity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain the resources of the moon, humans have launched a series of exploration activities on the moon, and the landing buffer device is an indispensable device on the lander required to perform lunar surface exploration missions. It can effectively protect the lander during landing scientific payloads such as instruments on the lander. Based on the mechanical properties and deformation mechanism of the aluminum honeycomb as buffer material, this paper compares and analyzes different simulation schemes and finally establishes the bonding model of the honeycomb by using the discrete element method; the parameters of the honeycomb material are matched through compression experiments to verify the discrete element honeycomb simulation and the feasibility of the scheme and its parameters. To meet the buffering requirements of large landers, a spider web honeycomb structure is proposed, its modeling method is studied by using the discrete element secondary development program, and the model is compressed as a whole to verify the energy consumption characteristics of the spider web honeycomb structure. Aiming at the honeycomb buffer device during the landing process, the cobweb honeycomb buffer structure and its corresponding landing coupling model were established using the discrete element method, the landing process was simulated and analyzed, and the landing results were predicted to verify the feasibility of the device, providing a reference for the design of the lander and its buffer device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the problem of velocity‐free fixed‐time attitude cooperative control for multiple spacecraft under directed communication graphs and in the presence of bounded disturbances. A distributed fixed‐time state observer is designed to estimate the leader's attitude states and a fixed‐time extended‐state observer is presented to obtain accurate estimates of both unmeasurable angular velocities and bounded disturbances. By use of the fixed‐time observers, a distributed fixed‐time attitude cooperative control scheme is proposed to make the states of all spacecraft simultaneously track a time‐varying reference attitude even when the reference attitude is available only to a subset of the group members. Homogeneous Lyapunov function and homogeneity property are applied to demonstrate that the control scheme can guarantee the attitude tracking errors converging to the neighborhood of the origin in fixed time which is independent of initial conditions. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to show the effectiveness of the control law derived here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction Process on the Pd/Nb 2 CT x. [Display omitted] • Pd/Nb 2 C be modified by different surface functional groups. • F-terminated Pd/Nb 2 C shows excellent HER performance. • F-terminated Pd/Nb 2 C weakens hydrogen hydrogen adsorption. • Suitable hydrogen adsorption is beneficial the HER. MXene is an emerging two-dimensional high-performance electrode material with various surface terminations during the preparation process, where the influence of these surface functional groups on the catalytic performance of MXene supported metal nanocatalysts receives only limited attentions. In this work, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance of Nb 2 CT x (T represents different functional groups) supported Pd nanocatalysts are studied via experiment and theoretical calculation. Different reagents are adopted to treat the Nb 2 C followed by loading Pd nanoparticles (NPs) in experiment. The Pd/Nb 2 C-HF exhibits outstanding HER performance compared to the Pd/Nb 2 C-H 2 SO 4 and Pd/Nb 2 C-HNO 3. The density functional theory calculations reveal that the modulation of electronic distribution of Pd NPs is observed by varying the surface functional groups and thus results in different HER performances. The F functional group in the Pd/Nb 2 C-HF is beneficial to decreasing the charge-transfer resistance and weakening the hydrogen adsorption. This study opens up a new route for designing electrocatalysts via changing surface terminations on MXene materials with enhanced HER performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the attitude containment control problem for a microsatellite cluster, an event-triggered adaptive sliding mode attitude containment control algorithm is proposed for the satellite cluster flight system under directed topology, so that attitude of followers asymptotically converges to the convex hull formed by the leaders' orientations. At first, the event-triggered control strategy is introduced into the attitude containment control problem for the microsatellite cluster. The triggering condition consisting of state-dependent and time-dependent function is designed to adjust control period and avoid the Zeno behaviour. When the function value meets the triggering condition, the event is triggered, state information is sampled, control law is computed, and actuators are updated, while the control action performed in nontriggering time is the same as the previous triggering instant. Then, in the presence of model uncertainties and external disturbances, an event-triggered adaptive sliding mode attitude containment control algorithm is presented under directed topology, and sufficient and necessary conditions for the followers to enter into the target area formed by the leaders are given. Furthermore, cell partitions from graph theory are employed to investigate the influence of information topology on steady states of followers, which provides theoretical basis for orientation design of cluster satellites. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed control strategy could reduce control execution frequency, as well as ensure the similar control performance with the time-triggered one, and followers belonging to the same cell have the same steady states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the attitude control of aircraft with multiple inertial measurement units under the influence of unknown gyro zero drift and external disturbance is studied. First of all, the observers are designed to estimate the zero drift biases based on the consensus algorithm. The angular velocity used for aircraft control is obtained by compensating the biases. Then, considering the external disturbance in the aircraft motion, this paper introduces a super-twisting sliding-mode algorithm to design the observer in order to compensate the disturbance. In addition, based on the proposed observers, a controller is designed to realize attitude control of the aircraft with the gyro zero drift and the external disturbance. Finally, the simulation results are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wuweiganlu (WGL) is a well-known formulation described in the "Four Medical Scriptures of Tibetan medicine", which is mainly used for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and other chronic ailments prescribed by Tibetan medicine. Nonetheless, the active constituents present in the water extracts of Wuweiganlu (WGLWE) specifically targeting arthritis treatment are largely unknown. The aim of this study is to explore the effects and underlying mechanisms of the active components in WGLWE on RA. We utilized ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q-TOF mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) to identify the main chemical compositions of WGLWE. The polarization effect of WGLWE on bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) was determined. A rat model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) was established by injecting an emulsion of bovine type II collagen mixed with an equal volume of incomplete Freund's adjuvant into the tail, paw and back of rats. A WGLWE-based ointment was topically applied to the legs and paws of the rats for 30 days. The rats' ankles were photographed to measure the degree of swelling. Micro-CT was used to image the knee joint and paw of rats, and the bone mineral density (BMD) and bone volume fraction (BV/TV) of knee joint in rats were analyzed. High-frequency ultrasound imaging of the rat knee joint was performed to observe knee joint effusion. Further, the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, and arginine (Arg-1) in CIA rats were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) co-staining were employed to detect the expression levels of inflammatory factors in synovium. A total of 28 main components were identified in WGLWE, and these compounds can directly bind to the inflammatory pathway proteins such as JAK2, NFκB and STAT3. In vitro experiments demonstrated that WGLWE promoted the transformation of M1 macrophages into M2 macrophages and suppressed the release of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. In vivo studies showed that WGLWE effectively reduced ankle swelling, alleviated knee joint effusion, and improved BV/TV while also reducing synovial inflammation levels. Furthermore, WGLWE compounds induced the transition of M1-type macrophages to M2-type macrophages in synovial tissue, resulting in decreased secretion of inflammatory factors TNF-α, WGLWE improved the synovial inflammatory state. Our results indicated that WGLWE alleviated joint inflammation in CIA rats and the underlying mechanism may be related to inducing the transformation of bone marrow-derived M1 macrophages to M2 macrophages, leading to an increase in the secretion of anti-inflammatory factors and a decrease in pro-inflammatory factors. Therefore, WGLWE may be used as a potential herbal preparation for the treatment of RA. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The emergence of deterioration and oscillation relates with the change of flow state. • Oscillation is driven by transition flow between partial and full re-laminarization. • The estimation criteria of HTD and oscillation are given with shearing-stress model. Trans-critical CO 2 Rankine cycle has great potential in converting low-grade heat into electricity, because of its good temperature glide matching between working medium and heat source. However, the drastic variation in thermo-physical properties of CO 2 around the pseudo-critical region causes the abnormal flow and heat transfer behaviors. In this paper, the heat transfer deterioration and thermal oscillation in the heat addition of trans-critical CO 2 cycle are investigated by experiments. The test section is heated uniformly by a DC power (0∼6 kW) and the minimum Reynolds number in the test section inlet is about 8000 (it is much larger than 2300) for the all cases. A shear stress reconstruction model is corrected by introducing the velocity profile of turbulence in the boundary layer to attempt to provide a quantitative criterion for deterioration and oscillation. The role of buoyancy and thermal acceleration in heat transfer deterioration and thermal oscillation is elucidated by connecting the shearing-stress reconstruction model and experimental results. It is found that, the thermal acceleration in the near-wall zone provides the key motivation to drive the heat transfer deterioration. The thermal oscillation is driven by the transition between partial and full re-laminarization flows in the local zone of heat transfer deterioration. When ( Δ τ a / τ w) < 1 & ( Δ τ / τ w) t o t > 1 or 0.1 < ( Δ τ / τ w) t o t < 1 , the turbulence is partially re-laminarized. When ( Δ τ a / τ w) > 1 & ( Δ τ a / τ w) > > ( Δ τ b o / τ w) , the intense thermal acceleration causes the turbulence to be fully re-laminarized in the near-wall zone and it maintains the new laminar boundary. The turbulence is partially re-laminarized in the lower boundary and it is almost full re-laminarization in the upper boundary of the oscillation wall temperatures. The results confirm that the emergence of heat transfer deterioration and oscillation instability in mixed turbulent convective relate with the change of flow states caused by acceleration and buoyancy effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regulation of plant population density is crucial for optimizing cotton fiber quality. However, the relationship between plant density and fiber quality stability under contrasting climatic conditions remains unclear, and the compromise between fiber quality and temporal stability is unknown. In this study, based on a long-term field experiment with various plant densities (1.5–10.5 plants m–2) conducted from 2008 to 2021, cotton fiber quality variability, including fiber length, fiber strength, elongation, uniformity index, and micronaire, and their temporal stability, were evaluated. We determined the optimal plant density for cotton cultivation and elucidated the contributions of plant density and climatic conditions to the variability of cotton fiber quality and its temporal stability in China's Yellow River Valley. The results revealed that cotton maintained its upper-intermediate quality throughout the study period, with fiber length, strength, elongation, uniformity index, and micronaire values ranging between 28.04 and 30.03 mm, 26.15–30.05 cN tex–1, 5.90–6.83%, 83.85–85.44%, and 4.24–5.14, respectively. An increase in plant density improved fiber quality but impaired temporal stability (P < 0.01), and slight increases in stability at lower plant densities resulted in substantially decreased probabilities of years with major declines in fiber quality class. Plant density and climatic conditions regulated the quality traits (23.5% and 69.3% of the explained variance, respectively), including fiber length, fiber strength, and micronaire, while climate was the most important factor (75.9% of the explained variance) in determining their temporal stability. Photosynthetically active radiation and maximum and mean temperature exhibited significant positive effects on fiber quality, whereas mean diurnal temperature range had the opposite effect. A plant density of 3.3–5.1 plants m–2 ensures the highest temporal stability of cotton fiber quality without declines in the fiber quality class. This study first provides insights into balancing cotton fiber quality and temporal stability through agronomic interventions, with implications for the quantitative prediction of future crop quality changes owing to climatic variation. • Plant density and weather changes explain 23.5% and 69.3% of fiber quality variance. • Temporal stability of fiber quality was primarily affected by climatic variation. • Plant density had the opposite effect on fiber quality and temporal stability. • Small increases in stability reduced the probability of fiber quality decline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Event-triggered coordinated attitude control problem for chip satellite cluster was investigated in this paper. Considering the constraints of computation, measurement and communication on chip satellites, adaptive attitude tracking controller based on event-triggered strategy was proposed for chip satellite cluster with leader-follower architecture. Triggering function with state tracking error was designed to adjust update period of controller, event was triggered and controller was updated once triggering function value satisfied the condition, while controller in non-triggering time used state information of triggering time. As the state of cluster system gradually tended to be stable, triggering frequency was reduced, which effectively reduced update frequency of controller and reduced resource on board. Cluster system was proved to be globally asymptotical convergence by Lyapunov stability theory. Simulation results showed that the proposed event-triggered adaptive attitude tracking controller could reduce control execution frequency, meet the constraints of resource and ability of chip satellites, as well as ensure control performance of cluster system. The influence of control gain coefficients and triggering parameters on control performance of cluster system were further analyzed, and criterion for parameters design was provided. • Triggering function designed using state error can adjust update period of controller. • Event-triggered attitude control reduces update frequency of controller. • Event-triggered control keeps similar control performance with traditional one. • Convergence rate is faster, convergence time is shorter as gain coefficient increases. • Inter-event time interval has positive lower bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercritical CO 2 Rankine cycle has great development potential as a power cycle for converting low-grade thermal energy into electricity. Better understanding of supercritical CO 2 heat transfer in helically coiled tubes (HCTs) is required for design and operation of supercritical CO 2 Rankine cycle power systems. In this work, the SST k∼ ω model is employed. A new dimensionless buoyancy parameter Ψ is proposed which denotes the ratio of gravitational buoyancy force to overall curvature effect. Furthermore, a flow regimes map is proposed based on the inclination angle of the dividing streamline between the two vortexes and buoyancy parameter Ψ. The mixed convection region in HCT is decomposed into a gravitational buoyancy force dominated heat transfer region (B Region α > 45 °) and a curvature effect dominated heat transfer region (C Region α < 45 °). Subsequently, the effects of HCT geometry on heat transfer mechanisms are respectively investigated in B and C Region, which help us better understanding the relationship of the buoyancy criterion and flow characteristics. The results indicate that the effects of coiled pitch and coiled diameter on heat transfer can be neglected in B Region. In C Region, the heat transfer is suppressed as coiled pitch increases and it will appear oscillation when torsion effect is strong enough. In addition, the heat transfer is enhanced with curvature increases but except for near the pseudo-critical region. • Overall curvature effect includes centrifugal force and centrifugal buoyancy force. • A new buoyancy parameter Ψ is proposed which considers the overall curvature effect. • A flow regimes map is proposed based on flow characteristics and buoyancy parameter Ψ. • Geometry effects are investigated based on the regimes map and buoyancy criterion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2,4,6,8,10,12-Hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexazisowurtzitane (HNIW)·1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocane (HMX) co-crystal in a 2:1 molar ratio was prepared by a solvent/non-solvent method, and the co-crystal has been characterized by several methods. The enthalpies of dissolution of 2HNIW·HMX co-crystal in N,N-dimethylformamide at different temperatures were measured by a DC08-1 Calvet microcalorimeter under standard atmospheric pressure, and it is indicated that the dissolutions are exothermic process. The empirical formulae for the calculation of the molar enthalpy (ΔdissH) of dissolution, relative partial molar enthalpy (ΔdissHpartial), relative apparent molar enthalpy (ΔdissHapparent), and enthalpy of dilution (ΔdilH1,2) at 298.15 K are obtained. The differential enthalpies (ΔdifH) and kinetic equations describing the dissolution process at different temperatures are deduced. Furthermore, the apparent activation energy E = 10.54 ± 0.22 kJ mol-1 and pre-exponential constant A = 0.34 ± 0.03 s−1 of 2HNIW·HMX co-crystal are obtained. The standard molar Gibbs free energy of activation (ΔG≠θ) at different temperatures is 86.44 ± 0.02 kJ mol−1 (298.15 K), 88.02 ± 0.03 kJ mol−1 (303.15 K), 89.61 ± 0.01 kJ mol−1 (308.15 K), 91.18 ± 0.01 kJ mol−1 (313.15 K), and 92.75 ± 0.02 kJ mol−1 (318.15 K), respectively. The standard molar entropy of activation (ΔS≠θ) and standard molar enthalpy of activation (ΔH≠θ) are − 262.55 ± 0.72 J mol−1 K−1 and 7.98 ± 0.22 kJ mol−1, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common kidney disorder which is associated with a high risk of mortality. Extensive evidence revealed the participation of renal afferent sensory nerves in the pathophysiology of renal ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury, however the role of these nerves in renal IR injury is controversial and remains to be further explored. Here, we report that capsaicin sensitive sensory nerves and neuropeptides prevented renal damage in AKI induced by IR injury. The sensory afferent degeneration model was established by injecting 50 mg/kg of capsaicin to male neonatal rats and verified by the tail flick test and reduced sensory neuropeptide of substance P and calcitonin gene related peptide in spinal cord, dorsal root ganglion and kidney after 12 weeks. Then, a model of renal IR injury was established. The sensory afferent degeneration in the AKI group increased the level of serum creatinine, NGAL and KIM-1, aggravated to some extent renal pathological damage, and enhanced the proinflammatory cytokines expressions and tubular cell apoptosis. In addition, it was also discovered that the level of phospho-ERK/ERK (p-ERK/ERK) showed an increase in spinal cord and kidney after degeneration of capsaicin sensitive sensory nerves. In conclusion, the degeneration of sensory nerves aggravated IR-induced AKI in rats, and the activated ERK signaling in spinal cord and kidney after sensory afferent degeneration might be the possible mechanism in the aggravated renal injury. Highlights • The sensory neuropeptides of CGRP and SP significantly increased after renal IR injury in kidney. • The large dose of capsaicin treatment in neonatal rats resulted in degeneration of capsaicin sensitive sensory nerves. • The degeneration of capsaicin sensitive sensory nerves and the reduction of CGRP and SP aggravated IR-induced AKI in rats. • The degeneration of capsaicin sensitive sensory nerves activated the ERK signal pathway of spinal cord and kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]