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Team score orienteering, a challenging and interesting sport, is gradually becoming known by the majority of sports enthusiasts. Integrating team score orienteering with the Internet can enhance the interactive experience for athletes. However, this integration increases the risk of the leakage of the athletes' information. In order to protect the privacy of athletes, it is necessary to employ encryption. Therefore, this paper proposes an efficient lattice-based revocable certificateless public key encryption (RCL-PKE) scheme with decryption key exposure resistance (DKER). The adoption of certificateless encryption not only avoids the complex certificate management required for traditional public key encryption, but also addresses the key escrow problem of identity-based encryption, thereby significantly ensuring data security and privacy. Furthermore, the revocable mechanism enables the organizing committee to flexibly manage the athletes' qualification for competitions, and DKER can effectively prevent the leakage of decryption keys, which further enhances data security. The constructed RCL-PKE scheme was proven to be IND-CPA secure under the learning with errors (LWE) assumption. Experiments indicated that the proposed RCL-PKE scheme had lower computation and communication costs, making it particularly suitable for team score orienteering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many universities, students' physical ability data are collected and stored in the cloud through various sensing devices to save computational and storage costs. Therefore, how to effectively access data while ensuring data security has become an urgent issue. Key-policy attribute-based encryption (KP-ABE) not only enables secure one-to-many communication and fine-grained access control but also adapts to data sharing in static scenarios, making it more suitable for the cloud sharing of physical ability data. In this paper, we construct an online/offline multi-authority key-policy attribute-based encryption with a cryptographic reverse firewall for physical ability data. This scheme uses multi-authority to avoid the single point of failure crisis of a single authority, and is combined with a cryptographic reverse firewall to resist backdoor attacks. In addition, the scheme uses outsourcing decryption to save users' computing costs, and utilizes offline/online technology to move a large amount of computing offline, reducing the online burden. Finally, the experiment shows the feasibility of the scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earth-abundant copper(I) coordination complexes of an imine-phosphine and a diimine have been developed as visible-light photocatalysts. Reaction of [Cu(MeCN)4]BF4 with hetero-bidentate phosphinopyrazole (phpz) ligand R1R2C3HN2PPh3 (R1 = R2 = H (1a); R1 = H, R2 = Me (1b); R1 = H, R2 = Ph (1c); R1 = R2 = Me (1d)) and 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline (dmp) gave four heteroleptic bis-chelate Cu(I) complexes [Cu(dmp)(R1R2C3HN2PPh3)]BF4 (R1 = R2 = H (2a); R1 = H, R2 = Me (2b); R1 = H, R2 = Ph (2c); R1 = R2 = Me (2d)) with distorted tetrahedral geometries. Complexes 2a–2d exhibited broad absorption in the visible spectrum and could facilitate photochemical intermolecular atom-transfer radical addition reactions of CBr4, or CCl3Br, CHI3 to styrenes in yields up to 91% and with a broad substrate scope. The absorption, emission, redox potential and photocatalytic activity were dependent on the substituents on the phpz ligand. Mechanistic studies supported an atom-transfer radical addition (ATRA) mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the reconstruction issue of sparse signal by developing centralized and distributed neurodynamic approaches. An l 1 -minimization problem can be employed for reconstructing sparse signal, and for solving this problem, a centralized neurodynamic approach with derivative feedback is designed. Considering the fact that the distributed approaches decompose the large-scale problem into small-scale one without central processing node in centralized ones, it effectively reduces the computational complexity of a single node. According to the distributed consensus and graph theory, the original l 1 -minimization problem can be equivalently transformed as a distributed optimization problem. Then, based on our proposed centralized approach, a distributed neurodynamic approach with derivative feedback is further proposed. Through the convex optimization theory and Lyapunov method, we indicate that the optimal solution of l 1 -minimization problem is equivalent to the equilibrium point of centralized or distributed approach, and that each neurodynamic approach globally converges to its equilibrium point. Furthermore, by comparing with several state-of-the-art neurodynamic approaches, our proposed approaches demonstrate their effectiveness and superiority by simulation results in reconstructing sparse signals and images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-interference is not only an important factor that affects the measuring accuracy of three-dimensional force sensors, but also a technical difficulty in three-dimensional force sensor design. In this paper, a cross-interference suppression method is proposed, based on the octagonal ring's structural symmetry as well as Wheatstone bridge's balance principle. Then, three-dimensional force sensors are developed and tested to verify the feasibility of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the proposed method is effective in cross-interference suppression, and the optimal cross-interference error of the developed sensors is 1.03%. By optimizing the positioning error, angle deviation, and bonding process of strain gauges, the cross-interference error of the sensor can be further reduced to −0.36%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization has led to rapid growth in energy consumption and CO2 emissions in the building sector. Building operation emissions (BCEs) are a major part of emissions in the building life cycle. Existing studies have attempted to estimate fine-scale BCEs using remote sensing data. However, there is still a lack of research on estimating long-term BCEs by integrating multi-source remote sensing data and applications in different regions. We selected the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration and the National Capital Region of Japan (NCRJ) as research areas for this study. We also built multiple linear regression (MLR) models between prefecture-level BCEs and multi-source remote sensing data. The prefecture-level BCEs were downscaled to grid scale at a 1 km2 resolution. The estimation results verify the method's difference and accuracy at different development stages. The multi-scale BCEs showed a continuous growth trend in the BTH urban agglomeration and a significant downward trend in the NCRJ. The decrease in energy intensity and population density were the main factors contributing to the negative growth of BCEs, whereas GDP per capita and urban expansion significantly promoted it. Through our methods and analyses, we contribute to the study of estimating greenhouse gas emissions with remote sensing and exploring the environmental impact of urban growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Buddhist teachings deny the presence of a stable, unchanging self, they must still make sense of human agency. In this article, I look through metaphors of mechanical men in Buddhist literature, which inform us of attempts to tackle the problem by resorting to figurative speech. With a selection of examples, we shall see not only a basic rationale of these metaphors, as well as the dynamics of their usage in Buddhist texts against different doctrinal backgrounds, but also their meta-philosophical role in penetrating through the agent-oriented "universe of discourse". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of Kaiser score (KS) adjusted with the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) (KS+) and machine learning (ML) modeling. Methods: A dataset of 402 malignant and 257 benign lesions was identified. Two radiologists assigned the KS. If a lesion with KS > 4 had ADC > 1.4 × 10−3 mm2/s, the KS was reduced by 4 to become KS+. In order to consider the full spectrum of ADC as a continuous variable, the KS and ADC values were used to train diagnostic models using 5 ML algorithms. The performance was evaluated using the ROC analysis, compared by the DeLong test. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy achieved using the threshold of KS > 4, KS+ > 4, and ADC ≤ 1.4 × 10−3 mm2/s were obtained and compared by the McNemar test. Results: The ROC curves of KS, KS+, and all ML models had comparable AUC in the range of 0.883–0.921, significantly higher than that of ADC (0.837, p < 0.0001). The KS had sensitivity = 97.3% and specificity = 59.1%; and the KS+ had sensitivity = 95.5% with significantly improved specificity to 68.5% (p < 0.0001). However, when setting at the same sensitivity of 97.3%, KS+ could not improve specificity. In ML analysis, the logistic regression model had the best performance. At sensitivity = 97.3% and specificity = 65.3%, i.e., compared to KS, 16 false-positives may be avoided without affecting true cancer diagnosis (p = 0.0015). Conclusion: Using dichotomized ADC to modify KS to KS+ can improve specificity, but at the price of lowered sensitivity. Machine learning algorithms may be applied to consider the ADC as a continuous variable to build more accurate diagnostic models. Key Points: • When using ADC to modify the Kaiser score to KS+, the diagnostic specificity according to the results of two independent readers was improved by 9.4–9.7%, at the price of slightly degraded sensitivity by 1.5–1.8%, and overall had improved accuracy by 2.6–2.9%. • When the KS and the continuous ADC values were combined to train models by machine learning algorithms, the diagnostic specificity achieved by the logistic regression model could be significantly improved from 59.1 to 65.3% (p = 0.0015), while maintaining at the high sensitivity of KS = 97.3%, and thus, the results demonstrated the potential of ML modeling to further evaluate the contribution of ADC. • When setting the sensitivity at the same levels, the modified KS+ and the original KS have comparable specificity; therefore, KS+ with consideration of ADC may not offer much practical help, and the original KS without ADC remains as an excellent robust diagnostic method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the mathematical correlation between weight loss and texture characteristics of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) for cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum). In this study, the Slogstic1 model showed that the weight loss of cherry tomatoes with MAP increased with prolonged storage time at room temperature. Moreover, this weight loss had a negative influence on all the texture parameters. Taking weight loss as a dependent variable, the texture parameters of firmness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience were significantly related to weight loss as independent variables and used to establish the fitting functions. With an increase in weight loss, the changes in firmness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience were consistent with the Log3P1, Gauss, Logistic, Boltzmann, and GaussAmp models, respectively. The result will provide useful information for predicting the weight loss and evaluating the texture of MAP fruit quantitatively. Novelty impact statement: The weight loss of MAP cherry tomatoes conformed to the Slogstic1 growth model.The weight loss had the strongest negative correlation with firmness.With increasing weight loss, the changes in firmness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience matched the Log3P1, Gauss, Logistic, Boltzmann, and GaussAmp models, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typhoon-related precipitation over land can result in severe disasters such as floods and landslides, and satellites are a valuable tool for estimating surface precipitation with high spatial-temporal resolutions. Accordingly, this study develops a surface precipitation integration framework to combine high-resolution observations from the radiometers of two geostationary satellites, Fengyun-4A (F4) and Himawari-8 (H8), with high-density rain-gauge observations or IMERG data and atmospheric reanalysis data based on a random forest (RF) algorithm. The RF algorithm integrates cloud and atmospheric features from radiometric observations and reanalysis information, and the intensity and spatial distribution of precipitation can be revealed by high-density rain-gauge or IMERG data. We take three typhoons that made landfall in South China during 2018 as examples. The F4-based and H8-based results using rain-gauge data as the predictand both show excellent results, yielding correlation coefficients (R) of ∼ 0.75 and probabilities of detection (POD) of ∼ 0.95. In contrast, when IMERG data are used as the predictand, the corresponding R and POD drop to ∼ 0.5 and 0.93, respectively, due to the uncertainties related to IMERG retrievals. By carefully choosing the predictor, our RF algorithm successfully integrates the information from satellite observations, surface measurements and atmospheric reanalyses, resulting in precipitation estimates that are highly consistent with actual ground observations. Consequently, our proposed integration framework can reconstruct hourly surface precipitation estimates at high spatial-temporal resolutions for historical typhoon studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter develops a novel fixed-time stable neurodynamic flow (FTSNF) implemented in a dynamical system for solving the nonconvex, nonsmooth model L 1 - β 2 , β ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] to recover a sparse signal. FTSNF is composed of many neuron-like elements running in parallel. It is very efficient and has provable fixed-time convergence. First, a closed-form solution of the proximal operator to model L 1 - β 2 , β ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] is presented based on the classic soft thresholding of the L 1 -norm. Next, the proposed FTSNF is proven to have a fixed-time convergence property without additional assumptions on the convexity and strong monotonicity of the objective functions. In addition, we show that FTSNF can be transformed into other proximal neurodynamic flows that have exponential and finite-time convergence properties. The simulation results of sparse signal recovery verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed FTSNF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first annular variable focus Fresnel lens driven by electrowetting. • Each annular region can be independently controlled, and achieve multiple functions. • Suitable for applications as an optical collection device and for achieving uniform beam illumination. Traditional Fresnel lenses can achieve volume diminution by reducing lens material cost, thereby achieving further integration in optical systems. However, the solid Fresnel lenses in being are fixed once they are fabricated due to the limitation of materials, so their optical parameters, like focal length, cannot change. In this paper, we propose a ring-shaped tunable optofluidic Fresnel lens (OFL) based on the electrowetting effect for the first time. Each annular region of the OFL can be independently controlled. By changing the tilt angle of the liquid-liquid interface of each annular region to control the deflection of the beam, the OFL can achieve axial zoom and multi-focus, as well as off-axis zoom. We analyze and establish a theoretical model, provide calculation formulas for the focusing position, and explain the design principle of an annular Fresnel lens driven by electrowetting. A three-annular-regions OFL is fabricated, and we test the focal length of each ring band through experiments to prove the correctness and feasibility of our proposed theory. The OFL can achieve a maximum zoom range of -254 mm to 223 mm. At the same time, we also demonstrate the different working modes of the OFL for applications such as light collection and uniformity. The OFL has a variety of functions, with a lightweight and thin thickness, which meets the expectations of a more and more compact liquid photonic device in the future. We expect this innovative OFL will have extensive applications in various fields, such as optical imaging, lighting engineering, motion tracking, infrared tracking, solar energy collection, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consider that the constrained convex optimization problems have emerged in a variety of scientific and engineering applications that often require efficient and fast solutions. Inspired by the Nesterov's accelerated method for solving unconstrained convex and strongly convex optimization problems, in this paper we propose two novel accelerated projection neurodynamic approaches for constrained smooth convex and strongly convex optimization based on the variational approach. First, for smooth, and convex optimization problems, a non-autonomous accelerated projection neurodynamic approach (NAAPNA) is presented and the existence, uniqueness and feasibility of the solution to it are analyzed rigorously. We provide that the NAAPNA has a convergence rate which is inversely proportional to the square of the running time. In addition, we present a novel autonomous accelerated projection neurodynamic approach (AAPNA) for addressing the constrained, smooth, strongly convex optimization problems and prove the existence, uniqueness to the strong global solution of AAPNA based on the Cauchy–Lipschitz–Picard theorem. Furthermore, we also prove the global convergence of AAPNA with different exponential convergence rates for different parameters. Compared with existing projection neurodynamic approaches based on the Brouwer's fixed point theorem, both NAAPNA and AAPNA use the projection operators of the auxiliary variable to map the primal variables to the constrained feasible region, thus our proposed neurodynamic approaches are easier to realize algorithm's acceleration. Finally, the effectiveness of NAAPNA and AAPNA is illustrated with several numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method of two-step laser etching for bulk micromachining of 4H–SiC membranes through a femtosecond (fs) laser with a wavelength of 532 nm, a pulse width of 290 fs and a repetition rate of 100 kHz is present in this paper. Using a control variable method, the first step of fs-laser etching for rapid material removal and the second step of fs-laser etching mainly for improving surface morphology are studied by changing the laser fluence, scanning spacing, number of scans and scanning speed. The average surface roughness of the membrane bottom after the first step of laser etching is 691 nm, which is reduced to 237 nm after the second step. Compared with one-step laser etching, two-step laser etching obtains a better surface morphology, and it only takes 38% of the processing time of one-step laser etching. The finite element analysis shows that the sensitivity of the SiC pressure sensor drops with the decrease of the membrane roughness. The sensor sensitivity of the membrane fabricated by two-step laser etching is only 3.0% lower than that of the ideal smooth model. Furthermore, a 4H–SiC laser-prepared membrane with a diameter of 1.2 mm and a thickness of 75 μm applied in pressure sensor is tested, showing good linearity and repeatability at a load of up to 10 MPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We propose an electrowetting liquid lens integrating adaptive liquid iris (ELL-LI) with adjustable radial aperture and axial position. • The liquid iris part is ring shape and does not need the flat support of a traditional liquid iris. • The aperture can change from 1.16 to 5.11 mm. • The iris can move up and down in the axial direction, according to different working electrodes on the side wall. • Experiments show that our proposed ELL-LI has the functions of depth of field expansion and field adjustment, which has a great application prospect in imaging systems, such as camera imaging systems, etc. Multifunctional integration is the development direction of electrowetting liquid lenses. We propose an electrowetting liquid lens integrating adaptive liquid iris (ELL-LI) with adjustable radial aperture and axial position. The liquid iris and the liquid lens are both driven by electrowetting on dielectric and integrated in the same chamber together, and share the same conductive liquid part. The liquid iris does not need the flat support of a traditional liquid iris. The aperture can change from 1.16 to 5.11 mm. The iris can move up and down in the axial direction, according to different working electrodes on the side wall. Experiments show that our proposed ELL-LI has the functions of depth of field expansion and field adjustment, which has a great application prospect in imaging systems, such as camera imaging systems, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typhoon-related precipitation over land can result in severe disasters such as floods and landslides, and satellites are a valuable tool to estimate surface precipitation with high spatial-temporal resolutions. This study develops a high-resolution surface precipitation integration framework to combine observations from geostationary Fengyun-4A/ Himawari-8 (F4/H8) satellite radiometers, high-density rain-gauge observations (or Integrated Multisatellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) data) and atmospheric reanalysis (ERA5) based on a random forest (RF) algorithm. The RF methods fuse cloud and atmospheric features from radiometric observations and reanalysis information, and the intensity and spatial distribution of rainfall can be revealed by high-density rain-gauge or IMERGE observations. We take three typhoons made landfall in South China in 2018 as examples. Both F4- and H8-based results using rain-gauge data as the predictand show excellent results with correlation coefficients (R) with the references ~0.75 and probabilities of detection (POD) as large as 0.98, higher than current satellite-only results. However, if the IMERG data are used as the predictand, the corresponding R and POD drop to ~0.5 and 0.93, respectively, due to the uncertainties related to IMERG retrievals. By carefully choosing the predictors, the RF algorithm can clearly summarize the information from satellite observations, surface observations and atmospheric reanalysis, resulting in precipitation results that are highly consistent with the actual ground observations. Our proposed integration framework can not only reconstruct hourly surface precipitation estimation datasets at high-spatial resolution for historical typhoon studies but also potentially monitor the fine- resolution surface precipitation of frequent typhoons in near-real time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of our study was to determine the risk factors for reduction loss in patients with proximal humeral fractures after locking plate fixation and establish a nomogram prediction model.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of proximal humeral fractures patients who had been surgically treated for locking plate in our institution from January 2016 to December 2018. Perioperative information was obtained through the electronic medial record system, univariate and multivariate analyzes were performed to determine the risk factors of reduction loss, and a nomogram model was constructed to predict the risk of reduction loss. The predictive performance and consistency of the model were evaluated by the consistency coefficient (C-index) and the calibration curve, respectively.Results: 115 patients were finally enrolled in our study. Multivariate analysis results showed that age, fracture classification, medial comminution, and calcar screw status were independent risk factors for reduction loss. The accuracy of the contour map for predicting transfusion risk was 0.944.Conclusion: We found a correlation between reduction loss and age, fracture classification, medial comminution, and calcar screw status after locking plate fixation for proximal humeral fractures patients. Our nomogram is helpful for clinicians to identify high-risk patients, early intervention and reduce the incidence of reduction loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve novel 7-diethylaminocoumarin-based 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives were synthesized via iodine-mediated oxidative cyclisation and confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS. The result of these derivatives' activities inhibiting acetylcholinesterase in vitro showed that 4 g and 4i had moderate inhibitory activities with 69.19% and 65.06%, respectively. The preliminary structure-activity relationships revealed that introduction of halogen atom on the para-position of phenyl of 7-diethylaminocoumarin-based 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives could enhance their activities. Molecular docking study suggested that 4 g possessed an optimal docking pose with interactions inside AChE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a smoothing inertial neurodynamic approach (SINA) which is used to deal with L p -norm minimization problem to reconstruct sparse signals. Note that the considered optimization problem is nonsmooth, nonconvex and non-Lipschitz. First, the problem is transformed into a smooth optimization problem based on smoothing approximation method, and the Lipschitz property of gradient of the smooth objective function is discussed. Then, SINA based on Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) condition, smoothing approximation and inertial dynamical approach, is designed to handle smooth optimization problem. The existence, uniqueness, global convergence and optimality of the solution of the SINA are discussed by the Cauchy–Lipschitz–Picard theorem, energy function and KKT condition. In addition, for p = 1 , the SINA has a mean sublinear convergence rate O 1 ∕ t under some mild conditions. Finally, some numerical examples on sparse signal reconstruction and image restoration are given to illustrate the theoretical results and the efficiency of SINA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we have developed a solvent-tailored ordered self-assembly strategy to create anisotropic nanomaterials. A trace amount of water has been found to be a predominant factor to direct peptide self-assembly into an anisotropic meso-matrix in DMSO. The obtained meso-matrix was applied to measure the anisotropic RDC parameter of organic molecules for structural elucidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4H–SiC is one of the most promising materials for pressure sensing in harsh environments. A Yb:KGW femtosecond laser was employed to fabricate 4H–SiC sensor membranes with size of Φ1200 × 80 μm. The optimal parameter combination under 15 μJ single pulse energy was obtained with the laps of 16, the scanning speed of 130 mm/s, the scanning line interval of 2 μm and the repetition rate of 100 kHz. High size accuracy (±1%) and steep sidewall (87.4°) were achieved. Wet cleaning and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching can obviously improve the membrane bottom surface morphology. The surface roughness Ra in X direction was reduced from 0.82 μm to 0.15 μm, and that in Y direction was reduced from 1.32 μm to 0.16 μm. Pinhole defect was related to the nonuniform distribution of laser fluence. This defect can be avoided by reducing the laser spot overlap ratio. Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and Raman spectrum were adopted to analyse the changes of material properties after laser processing. The analysis indicated that the crystal properties of the membrane bottom and the thin epitaxial layers on the front side of membrane are not damaged by the integrating micromachining. The results indicate the potential of utilizing the femtosecond laser combined with ICP etching to fabricate 4H–SiC sensor membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to mitigate carbon emissions and address environmental concerns, an increasing number of industries have started investing in green technologies to produce environmentally friendly products. This research develops a game theoretical model to examine the phenomenon of manufacturer encroachment in the context of carbon emission reduction and asymmetric information. Our analysis reveals that when the manufacturer does not encroach, a reduction in carbon emissions benefits all members of the supply chain. However, under encroachment, only the manufacturer stands to benefit from the reduction in carbon emissions. Moreover, with a low direct selling cost, we recommend that the manufacturer should aim to achieve a lower level of carbon emissions under encroachment compared to non-encroachment scenarios. Another key finding is that the benefits of encroachment for the manufacturer depend on the relative costs of direct selling and carbon emission reduction. Encroachment is advantageous to the manufacturer when either the direct selling cost or the carbon emission reduction cost is low. On the other hand, encroachment benefits the retailer only when both the direct selling cost and the carbon emission reduction cost are high. Furthermore, we demonstrate that it is in the retailer's best interest to voluntarily share demand information with the manufacturer, particularly when the direct selling cost is either low or high. By sharing demand information, the retailer can enhance the overall performance of the supply chain. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for managers regarding encroachment and carbon emission decisions in the context of low carbon manufacturing, carbon cap-and-trade policies, and asymmetric information. These findings can guide decision-making processes and help optimize the performance of supply chains in environmentally conscious settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum quenches in the Dicke model were studied both in the thermodynamic limit and the finite systems. For the integrable situation in the thermodynamic limit, the generalized Gibbs ensemble can effectively describe the energy-level occupations for the quench within the normal phase, but it fails for the quench to the superradiant phase. For the finite systems which are considered non-integrable, the post quench systems were studied by comparing with the thermal ensembles. The canonical ensembles are directly available for the quench within the normal phase. With the increasing of the target coupling strength over the equilibrium phase transition critical point, sudden changes take place for the effective temperature and the distance to the thermal ensembles. The thermalization was also studied by comparing with the results of the microcanonical ensembles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper studies the characterization and evaluation technology of rotation accuracy of hydrostatic spindle under the influence of unbalance. The dynamic model of the motion error of the hydrostatic spindle is established based on the dynamic parameters. The variation law of motion error of spindle rotor is analyzed under the unbalanced mass. The paper finds that with the increase of the spindle speed, the amplitude of the spindle error motion will increase, and the inclination angle θ error is more sensitive to the change in the rotational speed. In the total synthesis accuracy, the proportion of synchronization error decreases with the increase of the rotational speed. Finally, the least squares evaluation algorithm is used to evaluate the rotation error of the hydrostatic spindle, and a method for evaluating the rotation accuracy of the hydrostatic spindle with high calculation accuracy and calculation efficiency is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of fluid–structure interaction in micro-scale on the performance of the hydrostatic spindle and improve the analysis precision of the dynamic performance of hydrostatic spindle. Design/methodology/approach: Dynamic analysis of hydrostatic spindle before and after fluid–structure interaction is carried out according to stiffness and damping performance of the bearing, which demonstrates that the natural frequency and peak response of the spindle are increased in the micro-scale. Findings: It is concluded from the simulation and experimental results that there is micro-scale effect in the actual operation of the spindle system and slippage exists in the oil film flow. The error between the modal detection result and the theoretical value is within 10 per cent, which also verifies the correctness of the above conclusions. Originality/value: This paper analyzes the changes of the bearing performance parameters at macro- and micro-scale, which present the influence of the static and dynamic performance of the spindle in the micro-scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates a smoothing neural network (SNN) to solve a robust sparse signal reconstruction in compressed sensing (CS), where the objective function is nonsmooth l 1 -norm and the feasible set satisfies an inequality of l p -norm 2 ≥ p ≥ 1 which is used for measuring residual errors. With a smoothing approximate technique, the non-smooth and non-Lipschitz continuous issues of the l 1 -norm and the gradient of l p -norm can be solved efficiently. We propose a SNN which is modeled by a differential equation and give its circuit implementation. In this case, we prove the proposed SNN converges to the optimal of considered problem. Simulation results are discussed to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombus formation is increased under conditions of hypoxia in animal models of thrombosis and in human populations, but current therapies for thrombosis do not directly target hypoxia-responsive signaling pathways. The vascular response to hypoxia is controlled primarily by the hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs), whose target genes include several factors that regulate thrombus formation. In this article, we review the HIF-dependent and HIF-independent signaling pathways that regulate thrombus formation under hypoxic conditions. A better understanding of hypoxia-induced thrombus formation could lead to the development of novel prophylactic therapies for thrombosis. • Hypoxia is a stimulus for thrombus formation. • Hypoxia-inducible factors control the vascular response to hypoxia. • Thrombus formation can be regulated via HIF-dependent or -independent pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Directional transport-dominated particle separation presents major challenges in many technological applications. The Feynman ratchet can convert the random perturbation into directional transport of particles, offering innovative separation schemes. Here, we propose the design of a dusty plasma ratchet system to accomplish the separation of micrometer-sized particles. The dust particles are charged and suspended at specific heights within the saw channel, depending on their sizes. Bi-dispersed dust particles can flow along the saw channel in opposite directions, resulting in a perfect purity of particle separation. We discuss the underlying mechanism of particle separation, wherein dust particles of different sizes are suspended at distinctive heights and experience electric ratchet potentials with opposite orientations, leading to their contrary flows. Our results demonstrate a feasible and highly efficient method for separating micrometer-sized particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel optimization method to improve the performance of aerostatic spindle. The optimization process is based on the main factors affecting the load and stiffness of aerostatic spindle, which are determined by cross-correlation analysis. The maximum values of load capacity and stiffness are obtained from the relationship between the optimization function and the main influence factors. After optimization, the corresponding natural frequency has been improved, which indicates that the optimization method proposed in this paper is more efficient and reliable in the field of precision machining. The results will enforce the industrial application of aerostatic spindle system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molten salt has been regarded as a versatile and environmental-friendly method for the material preparation and waste destruction. In this work, molten FeCl3 was utilized for the generation of magnetic biochar (MBC) derived from simultaneous activation and magnetization of biomass. The sample characterization indicated that MBC had a rough surface with BET surface area of 404 m2/g and total pore volume of 0.35cm3/g. Highly dispersed Fe3O4 and nitrogen could be deposited on the surface, leading to an excellent magnetization property. The MBC exhibited a great 2,4-Dichlorophenol (2.4-DCP) and atrazine removal performance in solution with the maximum adsorption capacity achieved 298.12 mg/g and 102.17 mg/g. Kinetics results demonstrated that MBC adsorption met the Pseudo-first-order model better. Molten NaOH-Na2CO3 was provided for the re-activation of exhausted MBC. 2,4-DCP was firstly desorbed from the MBC and subsequently destructed by the active species in the melt medium. Chlorine can be captured in the molten alkaline medium from the XRD pattern of residues.The MBC could be easily recovered with a yield of 98.2% and fixed carbon content of 61.0% after the molten salt regeneration process. With no 2,4-DCP detected, 65.5% and 31.69% of initial Cl was found in washing water and residues with the molten NaOH-Na2CO3, respectively. After 4 cycles of regeneration and adsorption, 60.55%-72.22% of initial adsorption capacity can be kept. This preparation and regeneration method can be an effective way to reduce the risk of secondary pollution of chlorinated organic compounds during adsorbent regeneration. Implications: Molten salt (MS) is a salt or multiple salts with a low melting point, and has been applied in many sectors and is regarded as a crucial role in terms of energy, environmental, and resource sustainability. In our paper, magnetic biochar was prepared by one-step activation and magnetization of fir dust using molten FeCl3∙6H2O. Meanwhile, a regeneration method using molten alkaline salt was provided. Magnetic biochar generated in our study performed well in the 2,4-dichlorophenol and atrazine adsorption. After four cycles of regeneration and adsorption, 72.2% of initial 2,4-DCP adsorption capacity can be kept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pines are widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere and have a long evolutionary history. The availability of transcriptome data has facilitated comparative transcriptomics for studying the evolutionary patterns associated with the different geographical distributions of species in the Pinus phylogeny. Results: The transcriptome of Pinus kesiya var. langbianensis was sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform, and a total of 68,881 unigenes were assembled by Trinity. Transcriptome sequences of another 12 conifer species were downloaded from public databases. All of the pairwise orthologues were identified by comparative transcriptome analysis in 13 conifer species, from which the rate of diversification was calculated and a phylogenetic tree inferred. All of the fast-evolving positive selection sequences were identified, and some salt-, drought-, and abscisic acid-resistance genes were discovered. Conclusions: mRNA sequences of P. kesiya var. langbianensis were obtained by transcriptome sequencing, and a large number of simple sequence repeat and short nucleotide polymorphism loci were detected. These data can be used in molecular marker-assisted selected in pine breeding. Divergence times were estimated in the 13 conifer species using comparative transcriptomic analysis. A number of positive selection genes were found to be related to environmental factors. Salt- and abscisic acid-related genes exhibited different selection patterns between coastal and inland Pinus. Our findings help elucidate speciation patterns in the Pinus lineage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report a novel RNA virus from an encyrtid endoparasitoid wasp (Diversinervus elegans). This virus has a genome of 8845 nucleotides in length with a poly(A) tail. It contains one open reading frame (ORF) encoding a single polyprotein that shares the most significant similarity to the polyproteins of dicistroviruses. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that this virus belongs to the family Dicistroviridae from the order Picornavirales, but its genomic organization is distinct from that of the other known dicistroviruses, which have two ORFs. Consequently, we propose that this virus is a member of a new species in the order Picornavirales, and have named it "Diversinervus elegans virus" (DEV). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circovirus 4 (PCV4) is a recently discovered circovirus that was first reported in 2019 in several pigs with severe clinical disease in Hunan province of China, and also identified in pigs infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). To further investigate the epidemic profile and genetic characteristics of the two viruses, 150 clinical samples were collected from 9 swine farms in Shaanxi and Henan provinces of China, and a SYBR Green I-based duplex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was developed for detecting PCV4 and PRRSV simultaneously. The results showed the limits of detection were 41.1 copies/μL and 81.5 copies/μL for PCV4 and PRRSV, respectively. The detection rates of PCV4 and PRRSV were 8.00% (12/150) and 12.00% (18/150) respectively, and a case of co-infection with PCV4 and PRRSV was found in the lung tissue of a suckling pig with respiratory symptom. Subsequently, the complete genomic sequences of five PCV4 strains were obtained, of which one PCV4 strain (SX-ZX) was from Shaanxi province, and these strains were 1770 nucleotides in length and had 97.7%−99.4% genomic identity with 59 PCV4 reference strains. The genome characteristic of the SX-ZX strain was evaluated from three aspects, a "stem-loop" structure, ORF1 and ORF2. As essential elements for the replication, the 17-bp iterative sequence was predicted as the stem structure, in which three non-tandem hexamers were found at downstream with H1/H2 (12-CGGCACACTTCGGCAC-27) as the minimal binding site. Three of the five PCV4 strains were clustered into PCV4b, which was composed of Suidae, fox, dairy cow, dog and raccoon dog. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that seven PRRSV strains from the present study were clustered into the PRRSV-2 genotype. Collectively, these data extend our understanding of the genome characteristic of PCV4 as well as the molecular epidemiology and the genetic profile of PCV4 and PRRSV. • A duplex qPCR assay was developed for the simultaneous detection of PCV4 and PRRSV. • Limits of detection were 41.1 copies/μL and 81.5 copies/μL for PCV4 and PRRSV, respectively. • A case of co-infection with PCV4 and PRRSV was found in lung tissue of a suckling pig with respiratory symptom. • The 17-bp iterative sequence was predicted as the stem structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C23H22N2O4, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 17.7478(4) Å, b = 10.0041(2) Å, c = 24.4749(6) Å, β = 111.111(2)°, V = 4053.88(17) Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0614, wRref(F2) = 0.1749, T = 290 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present the analog circuits to solve a class of variational inequality problems (VIPs) based on the projection neural network (PNN) and inertial projection neural network (IPNN) algorithms. The proposed circuits are normative and only require basic circuit elements. The optimal solutions of VIPs are equivalent to the stable output voltages of the associated circuits. This paper also shows how to design analog circuits with projection operators (box constrains set and sphere constrains set) on the basis of PNN and IPNN algorithms. As a result, a class of variational inequality problems can be solved by proposed circuit frameworks. The effectiveness and superiority (with less computing time) of the proposed analog circuits are expound by simulating on three examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transient dynamic characteristic of a tire, which has a significant effect on vehicle handling stability and ride comfort, is difficult to study in detail because of its highly non-linear behavior. In this study, the transient dynamic characteristics of a non-pneumatic wheel, called the mechanical elastic wheel (MEW), which was rolling over a ditch were investigated by the explicit dynamic finite element (FE) method. A three-dimensional FE model of MEW considering geometric nonlinearity, material nonlinearity and large contact deformation between the wheel and the road, was established. For the validation of the accuracy and reliability of the FE model of MEW, the simulation and the experimental results of the radial stiffness and footprint of MEW were compared and analyzed. A dynamic simulation of the validated FE model of MEW rolling over a ditch was conducted using the ABAQUS/Explicit program. The equivalent stress and the contact stress generated during the process of the rolling MEW impacting the ditch were studied in detail. The effect of the rolling speed on the transient dynamic characteristics was also analyzed based on the simulation results. The simulation results could provide guidance for the optimization of the MEW structure and vehicle dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate a more general sparse signal recovery minimization model and a smoothing neural network optimal method for compress sensing problem, where the objective function is a L p − q minimization model which includes nonsmooth, nonconvex, and non-Lipschitz quasi-norm L p norms 1 ≥ p > 0 and nonsmooth L q norms 2 ≥ p > 1 , and its feasible set is a closed convex subset of R n . Firstly, under the restricted isometry property (RIP) condition, the uniqueness of solution for the minimization model with a given sparsity s is obtained through the theoretical analysis. With a mild condition, we get that the larger of the q , the more effective of the sparse recovery model under sensing matrix satisfies RIP conditions at fixed p . Secondly, using a smoothing approximate method, we propose the smoothing inertial projection neural network (SIPNN) algorithm for solving the proposed general model. Under certain conditions, the proposed algorithm can converge to a stationary point. Finally, convergence behavior and successful recover performance experiments and a comparison experiment confirm the effectiveness of the proposed SIPNN algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progesterone (P4) is an important ovarian hormone that inhibits estrogen-dependent proliferation of endometrial epithelial cells (EECs). miR-152 has been reported to be a cell cycle regulator. In this study, we first demonstrated that P4 induced the expression of miR-152 in ovariectomized mice and Ishikawa cell. miR-152 was detected in the human endometrial cell lines that were stably transfected with P4 receptor. Results showed that P4 induced its expression through its receptor B subtype. Then, using the specific miRNA mimic and inhibitor, we proved that miR-152 impeded G1/S transition in the cell cycle of EECs and inhibited cellular proliferation via downregulating WNT-1 in mice and human endometrial cancer cell lines (Ishikawa, HEC-1-b, and KLE). miR-152 induced by P4 is an important inhibitor for the proliferation of EECs. miR-152 may be an important tumor suppressor microRNA in endometrial cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Novel supermicroporous silica with bimodal micromesopores was synthesized. • A pluronic triblock copolymer of small molecular weight was used as template. • Desulfurization performance was remarkably enhanced due to super micropore. • Super microporous silica exhibited excellent regeneration performance. As an efficient fuel purification technique, adsorption desulphurization has attracted wide attention. Silicon oxide has been verified as a promising candidate for adsorption desulfurization reagent due to the advantages of stable structure, inexpensiveness and accessibility. However, its adsorption desulfurization performance is always weakened by the limited pore channel size leading to pore diffusion resistance over the traditional microporous silicon oxide, and it suffers from the poor shape selectivity of mesoporous silicon oxide as well. In this work, we successfully prepared a novel super microporous silica material (SMS) with a unique bimodal micro-mesoporous pore size distribution mainly around 1.2 nm, 1.6 nm and 1.8 ∼ 3.5 nm, using a pluronic triblock copolymer with approximately an average molecular weight of 3858 as template by hydrothermal synthesis. The SMS possessed the characteristics of Ia3d cubic phase and super microporous as well as mesoporous silica structure, according to the X-ray diffraction characterization as well as nitrogen adsorption isotherms. The SMS could effectively reduce the diffusion resistance and exhibit improved shape selectivity compared to microporous or mesoporous silicon oxide, respectively, by virtue of its bimodal micro-mesoporous pore size distribution. Under an optimized crystallization temperature of 100 °C for 24 h, the as-synthesized SMS displayed a notable desulfurization performance with a breakthrough capacity of 0.122 mmol S/g benzothiophene, which was significantly superior to that of traditional mesoporous silica KIT-6 (0.04 mmol S/g). Furthermore, the desulfurization performance of SMS adsorbent was not significantly reduced after three cycles of regeneration. The SMS exhibited high desulfurization capacity, easy regeneration and satisfactory regeneration performance, and it could be applied in adsorptive desulfurization technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The accuracy of the machining process is significantly impacted by the performance of hydrostatic bearings. This paper aims to analyze the influence of micro-textured on the performance of the hydrostatic bearing, and the performance of the bearing is improved by designing the arrangement of micro-textured. Design/methodology/approach: Different designs have been used while creating micro-textured bearings. The finite element models of bearing with smooth and micro-textured were established and solved using the computational fluid dynamics method. The arrangement scheme of the micro-textured was evaluated by comparing the influence of the distribution position and arrangement of the micro-textured on the bearing performance. Findings: To improve the performance of the bearing, the bearing capacity was significantly increased, and the friction coefficient of the bearing was decreased when the micro-textured was distributed in the form of an obtuse angle arrangement in the maximum pressure area of the bearing. The experimental findings validate the analysis method. Originality/value: In this paper, the effect of irregularly arranged micro-textured on bearing performance is investigated to improve the bearing capacity and lubrication status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circovirus 4 (PCV4) is a recently discovered circovirus that was first reported in 2019 in several pigs in Hunan province of China and has also been identified in pigs infected with porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). To further investigate the coinfection and genetic diversity of these two viruses, 65 clinical samples (including feces and intestinal tissues) were collected from diseased piglets on 19 large-scale pig farms in Henan province of China, and a duplex SYBR Green I–based quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was developed for detecting PEDV and PCV4 simultaneously. The results showed that the limit of detection was 55.2 copies/μL and 44.1 copies/μL for PEDV and PCV4, respectively. The detection rate for PEDV and PCV4 was 40% (26/65) and 38% (25/65), respectively, and the coinfection rate for the two viruses was 34% (22/65). Subsequently, the full-length spike (S) gene of eight PEDV strains and a portion of the genome containing the capsid (Cap) gene of three PCV4 strains were sequenced and analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all of the PEDV strains from the present study clustered in the G2a subgroup and were closely related to most of the PEDV reference strains from China from 2011 to 2021, but they differed genetically from a vaccine strain (CV777), a Korean strain (virulent DR1), and two Chinese strains (SD-M and LZC). It is noteworthy that two PEDV strains (HEXX-24 and HNXX-24XIA) were identified in one sample, and the HNXX-24XIA strain had a large deletion at amino acids 31-229 of the S protein. Moreover, a recombination event was observed in strain HEXX-24. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequence of the PCV4 Cap protein revealed that PCV4 strains were divided into three genotypes: PCV4a1, PCV4a2, and PCV4b. Three strains in the present study belonged to PCV4a1, and they had a high degree of sequence similarity (>98% identity) to other PCV4 reference strains. This study not only provides technical support for field investigation of PEDV and PCV4 coinfection but also provides data for their prevention and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erythroid apoptosis increases significantly in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with iron overload, but the underlying mechanism is not fully clear. In this study, we aim to explore the effect of HIF-1a/ROS on erythroid apoptosis in MDS patients with iron overload. We found that iron overload injured cellular functions through up-regulating ROS levels in MDS/AML cells, including inhibited cell viability, increased cell apoptosis and blocked cell cycle at G0/G1 phase. Interestingly, overexpression of hypoxia inducible factor-1a (HIF-1a), which was under-expressed in iron overload models, reduced ROS levels and attenuated cell damage caused by iron overload in MDS/AML cells. And gene knockdown of HIF-1a got the similar results as iron overload in MDS/AML cells. Furthermore, iron overload caused high erythroid apoptosis was closely related with ROS in MDS patients. Importantly, the HIF-1a protein levels of erythrocytes elevated obviously after incubation with desferrioxamine (DFO) from MDS patients with iron overload, accompanied by ROS levels inhibited and erythroid apoptosis reduced. Taken together, our findings determine that the HIF-1a/ROS signaling pathway plays a key role in promoting erythroid apoptosis in MDS patients with iron overload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify the molecular signatures that predict responses to decitabine ( DAC), we examined baseline gene mutations (28 target genes) in 109 myelodysplastic syndrome ( MDS) patients at diagnosis. We determined that TP53 mutations predicted complete response ( CR), as 10 of 15 patients (66·7%) who possessed TP53 mutations achieved a CR. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that TP53 mutations are the only molecular signatures predictive of a CR to DAC in MDS. Among the ten patients with TP53 mutations who achieved a CR, nine presented with complex karyotypes due to abnormalities involving chromosome 5 and/or chromosome 7, and eight possessed monosomies. Although TP53 mutations were associated with a higher frequency of CRs, they were not associated with improved survival. Poor outcomes were attributed to early relapses and transformation to acute myeloid leukaemia after CR. Post- DAC therapy patient gene mutation profiles showed that most CR patients exhibited fewer gene mutations after achieving a CR. It seems that suppression of these gene mutations was facilitated by DAC, resulting in a CR. In summary, TP53 mutations might predict decitabine-induced complete responses in patients with MDS. DAC-induced responses may result from partial suppression of malignant clones containing mutated TP53 genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In this paper, we propose a triple-layer spherical electrowetting liquid lens (TL-SELL) with large-aperture and high zoom ratio. The chamber of the proposed lens is spherical which can enlarge the apparent contact angle range compared with the conventional chamber, and brings an excellent 4.12 zoom ratio. • We define the thickness of conductive liquid layer under spherical chamber, and establish a model. • We analyzed the geometric principle of the TL-SELLand proposed a model. • The focal length of the TL-SELL can be changed from ~–35.2mm to ~51.1mm under 0–80V applied voltages. • 8mm clear aperture and 6mm total liquid thickness mean that the TL-SELL can be pretty compact. We propose a triple-layer spherical electrowetting liquid lens with large-aperture and high zoom ratio. The chamber of the proposed lens is spherical, which can enlarge the apparent contact angle range. The triple-layer liquid consists of a conductive liquid, an insulating liquid and a conductive liquid in turn, which forms two independent liquid-liquid (L-L) interfaces. We simulated and analyzed the geometric location of the L -L interfaces to ensure that the two liquid-liquid interfaces do not fuse under the requirement of compact design. The two L -L interfaces are symmetrically distributed on the upper and lower hemispheres of the spherical chamber and can be changed the surface shapes at the same time. The experimental results show that the zoom ratio of our proposed lens is 4.12. And the focal length can be changed from −35.2 mm to 51.1 mm under 0–80 V applied voltage, and has two focal segments according to different working electrodes. 8 mm clear aperture and 6 mm total liquid thickness mean that the triple-layer spherical electrowetting liquid lens can be pretty compact and has a great application prospect in imaging systems, such as microscopic imaging system, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive and inevitably fatal disease characterized by the progressive increase of pulmonary vascular resistance and obliterative pulmonary vascular remodeling, which lead to right-sided heart failure and premature death. Many of the genetically modified mouse models do not develop severe PH and occlusive vascular remodeling. Egln1Tie2Cre mice with Tie2Cre-mediated deletion of Egln1, which encodes hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2), is the only mouse model with severe PAH, progressive occlusive pulmonary vascular remodeling, and right-sided heart failure leading to 50–80% mortality from the age of 3–6 months, indicating that the Egln1Tie2Cre mice model is a long-sought-after murine PAH model. However, it is unknown if Egln1Tie2Cre mice respond to FDA-approved PAH drugs in a way similar to PAH patients. Here, we tested the therapeutic effects of the three vasodilators: sildenafil (targeting nitric oxide signaling), ambrisentan (endothelin receptor antagonist), and treprostinil (prostacyclin analog) on Egln1Tie2Cre mice. All of them attenuated right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) in Egln1Tie2Cre mice consistent with their role as vasodilators. However, these drugs have no beneficial effects on pulmonary arterial function. Cardiac output was also markedly improved in Egln1Tie2Cre mice by any of the drug treatments. They only partially improved RV function and reduced RV hypertrophy and pulmonary vascular remodeling as well as improving short-term survival in a drug-dependent manner. These data demonstrate that Egln1Tie2Cre mice exhibit similar responses to these drugs as PAH patients seen in clinical trials. Thus, our study provides further evidence that the Egln1Tie2Cre mouse model of severe PAH is an ideal model of PAH and is potentially useful for enabling identification of drug targets and preclinical testing of novel PAH drug candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A kind of cutting force sensor based on semi-conductive strain gauge is proposed in this paper in order to optimize the contradiction between sensitivity and natural frequency of strain-gauge type sensors. A new sensing element of two mutual-perpendicular octagonal rings 1 1 TMPOR: two mutual-perpendicular octagonal rings. (TMPOR) is developed to improve natural frequency; and semi-conductive strain gauge that fabricated by MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical system) technique is used to enhance sensitivity of the sensor due to its higher gauge factor (GF). Static calibration experiment results show that semi-conductive strain gauge has improved the sensitivity by 16 times than traditional metal foil strain gauge, which proves the feasibility of settling the contradiction aforementioned by using MEMS technique. Modal impact test indicates that the natural frequency of the fabricated sensor is 771 Hz in primary direction, which fulfills its most application in high speed machining process. During dynamic cutting force measurement test, the developed sensor exhibits satisfying ability in dynamic cutting force signal detection. Generally, the MEMS technique based sensor shows great potential in solving technical defect between sensitivity and natural frequency in current cutting force sensor research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the clinical characteristics and etiology of mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion (MERS) in China by retrospectively analyzing five MERS cases from the Jiangsu Provincial Hospital within a total of 27 reported MERS cases from available Chinese literature. Most of the 27 cases originated near the eastern and southern parts of China. Ages for 23 MERS cases were under 30 years and the female-to-male ratio was 1:1.25. The major causes of MERS included infection, antiepileptic drug withdrawal, high-altitude cerebral edema, and cesarean section (C-section). Hyponatremia was also observed in 10 MERS cases. All patients had a complete recovery within a month. Steroids and IVIG were the most commonly used therapy for MERS, but their efficiency remained questionable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Haloarchaea is an important group of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)-accumulating organisms. However, few promising haloarchaeal species for economical and efficient PHA production have been reported. Here, we first discovered that Halogranum amylolyticum TNN58 could efficiently accumulate poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) with a high 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) fraction using glucose as carbon source. Briefly, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed the presence of a large number of PHA granules in the cells. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H NMR) analyses showed that PHAs synthesized from glucose was PHBV. Moreover, the 3HV content reached 20.1 mol%, which is the highest 3HV fraction thus far reported, as for PHBV produced by the wild-type strains grown on unrelated carbon courses. Fermentation experiments suggested that nitrogen-limited MG medium was better than nutrient-rich NOMG and AS168 medium for PHBV production. Additionally, glucose was the most suitable carbon source among the tested carbon sources. Interestingly, PHBV accumulation was almost paralleled by cell growth and glucose consumption. By applying the fed-batch process in fermentor, the PHBV production and cell dry weight were increased by approximately eight and four times, respectively, as compared with those of the batch process in shaking flasks. The classical PHA synthase genes were successfully cloned via consensus-degenerate hybrid oligonucleotide primers (CODEHOPs) and high-efficiency thermal asymmetric interlaced (hiTAIL) PCR methods. This finding suggested that H. amylolyticum shows promising potential in the low-cost biotechnological production of PHBV after further process optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prenylated hydroquinones are the main meroterpenoids found in fungal species of the genus Ganoderma. A new prenylated hydroquinone ganocalidin G (1) was isolated from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma calidophilum. The structure of compound 1 was identified based on 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy as well as MS. Its absolute structure was elucidated from optical rotation calculation. The bioassay for inhibitory activity against AChE showed compound 1 had weak activity with an inhibition rate of 28.7% at a concentration of 100 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]