Search

A worrying phenomenon has emerged recently: more people are deliberately avoiding rather than seeking information regarding acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This is the first study to explore behaviors related to AIDS information avoidance and the potential influential factors among older men who have sex with men (MSM). We enrolled 11 older MSM from Wuhan, the largest city in central China, from January to March 2023 using a phenomenological method. This qualitative research was conducted using face-to-face semi-structured interviews. AIDS information avoidance was commonly observed among the respondents. Behaviors related to AIDS information avoidance included avoiding AIDS-related information, ignoring known AIDS information, and avoiding medical care. The main factors associated with AIDS information avoidance included information overload, high-risk sexual behaviors, over-optimism, fear of disclosure, and age. China should provide AIDS information in a manner suitable for older MSM, pay more attention to MSM over the age of 70 years, those who are not open about their sexual orientation and those who are too optimistic, and strengthen the censorship of AIDS information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical efficacy of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment is significantly hindered by Taxol resistance, demanding the exploration of novel approaches to overcome this challenge. Natural products, renowned for their diverse anticancer potential, offer hope, with allicin emerging as a captivating contender. However, the intricate role and underlying mechanisms of allicin in NSCLC Taxol resistance remain largely unexplored. In this extensive investigation, we delve into the impact of allicin on Taxol resistance, meticulously examining both in vitro and in vivo scenarios. Remarkably, allicin effectively curbs the proliferation and migration of A549/Taxol cells while inducing apoptosis. Unraveling the regulatory potential of genes like CDK1 in the cell cycle pathway, allicin demonstrated the ability to arrest cells in the G2/M phase, thus disrupting the cell cycle and heightening Taxol sensitivity. Strikingly, when combined with Taxol, allicin showed the ability to promote Taxol to inhibit tumor growth and reduce lung nodules in tumor-bearing mice, all without significant toxicity. Importantly, allicin's prowess in reversing Taxol resistance via cell cycle regulation sheds light on its potential as a resistance-reversing agent in NSCLC, marking a vital milestone in the quest for natural source therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rutile TiO 2 exhibits RTFM when it contains intrinsic defects or when external elements are doped into the material, which makes it an crucial substrate material for advancement of spintronics. By utilizing electron irradiation, intrinsic defects can be generated in rutile TiO 2 , and the type and concentration of defects can be controlled by adjusting the energy and fluence of the electron beam. In this study, rutile TiO 2 samples were subjected to electron irradiation at different fluences, and the resulting microstructure, magnetism, and optical properties were characterized. The findings reveal that all the samples exhibit RTFM, and the changes of M S and N S are similar with the variations of the concentration of V O. This serves as direct evidence that the intrinsic defects in rutile TiO 2 can induce RTFM and confirms that electron irradiation can regulate the RTFM of rutile TiO 2. [Display omitted] • The change of M S and N S are similar with the variations of the electron fluence. • The intrinsic defect V O present in rutile TiO 2 can induce RTFM. • 0.5 MeV electron irradiation can regulate the RTFM of rutile TiO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, layered oxides have been extensively studied as promising cathode materials for sodium ion batteries. However, layered oxides undergo complex phase transitions during charge‐discharge process, which adversely affects the electrochemical performance. High‐entropy layered oxides as a unique design concept can effectively improve the cycling performance of cathode materials by virtue of the 2D ion migration channels between the layers. Based on the concepts of high‐entropy and layered oxides, this paper reviews the research status of high‐entropy layered oxides in the field of sodium‐ion batteries, focusing on the connection between high‐entropy and layered oxide phase transitions during electrochemical charging and discharging. Finally, the advantages of layered cathode materials based high‐entropy are summarized, and the opportunities and challenges of future high‐entropy layered materials are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of countries struggle to accomplish sustainable development and environmental sustainability; nevertheless, environmental degradation issues can be resolved by enhancing technological innovations and institutional effectiveness. This study assesses the impact of technological innovations and institutional quality on carbon dioxide emission in the Belt and road initiative countries for the time period of 2002 to 2019. Fixed effect, OLS, and generalized method of moment estimators were applied to the panel data for analysis. The results shows that energy from fossil fuels, economic growth and technological innovations increase environmental degradation by rising carbon dioxide emission. Renewable energy consumption, the rule of law, and the quality of institutions make a significant contribution to the improvement of environmental quality. In particular, the Environmental Kuznets Curve and Innovation Claudia curve is valid in the Belt and Road Initiative countries. In the presence of quality institutions, countries can achieve sustainable growth and environmental sustainability by expanding their use of green technology and renewable energy. The findings provide suggestions to the sample countries on the improvement of institutional framework and technological innovations in order to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rheological and tribological properties of polyurea greases with different contents of few layers of graphene (FLG) were studied, and the influence mechanism of temperature and load on few layers of graphene was discussed. The results show that FLG is more suitable as a friction reduction and wear additive for polyurea greases at high temperatures or at normal temperatures and low loads below 1 wt% and less suitable at normal temperatures and high loads. Thickener chemisorbed film, FLG deposition film and friction reaction film composed of FeO (OH), Fe2O3, Fe3O4 and other oxides form a boundary lubrication film on the friction pairs lubricated by grease containing FLG.The stiffness of the frictional boundary film is enhanced by the absorption of FLGs on the grease thickening. The thermal conductivity of graphene hinders frictional boundary film deterioration and promotes oxide film formation, resulting in reduced friction and wear on the contact surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been reported that circRNAs play an important regulatory role in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the molecular role of circ_0001821 in CRC development is unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the regulatory role and molecular mechanisms of circ_0001821 in CRC. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot assays were used to detect the expression of circ_0001821, miR-600 and isochorismatase domain containing 1 (ISOC1) in CRC tissues as well as its cell lines. Colony formation assay and EDU assay were used to detect the proliferative capacity of cells. Transwell assay was used to assess cell migration and invasion ability. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell apoptosis. ELISA was used to measure the glycolytic capacity of cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay and RNA pull-down assay were used to analyze the relationships between circ_0001821, miR-600 and ISOC1. Animal experimentation was used to validate the functional study of circ_0001821 in vivo. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of Ki67 staining analysis was conducted to assess tumor growth. Circ_0001821 and ISOC1 were significantly increased in CRC tissues and its cell lines, and miR-600 was significantly decreased in CRC tissues and its cell lines. Silencing circ_0001821 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion and glycolytic capacity, while inducing apoptosis. And it could inhibit tumor growth in vivo. Circ_0001821 could act as a sponge for miR-600 to regulate CRC processes. ISOC1 was identified as a downstream regulator of miR-600, also miR-600 could regulate the expression of ISOC1. In addition, circ_0001821 could regulate ISOC1 expression changes through miR-600. Mechanistically, either miR-600 inhibitor or overexpression of ISOC1 could reverse the effects of knockdown of circ_0001821 on cell biological properties. Circ_0001821 regulated the developmental process of CRC through miR-600/ISOC1 axis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood is a viable alternative to traditional steel, cement, and concrete as a structural material for building applications, utilizing renewable resources and addressing the challenges of high energy consumption and environmental pollution in the construction industry. However, the vast supply of fast-growing poplar wood has bottlenecks in terms of low strength and dimensional stability, making it difficult to use as a structural material. An environmentally friendly acrylic resin system was designed and cured in this study to fill the poplar cell cavities, resulting in a new type of poplar laminated veneer lumber with improved mechanical strength and dimensional stability. The optimized acrylic resin system had a solid content of 25% and a curing agent content of 10% of the resin solid content. The cured filled poplar veneer gained 81.36% of its weight and had a density of 0.69 g/cm3. The static flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the further prepared laminated veneer lumber were 123.12 MPa and 12,944.76 MPa, respectively, exceeding the highest flexural strength required for wood structural timber for construction (modulus of elasticity 12,500 MPa and static flexural strength 35 MPa). Its tensile strength, impact toughness, hardness, attrition value, water absorption, water absorption thickness expansion, and water absorption width expansion were 58.81%, 19.50%, 419.18%, 76.83%, 44.38%, 13.90%, and 37.60% higher than untreated laminated veneer lumber, demonstrating improved mechanical strength and dimensional stability, significantly. This method provides a novel approach to encouraging the use of low-value-added poplar wood in high-value-added structural building material applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron and steel industry is a major CO2 emitter and an important subject for the implementation of carbon emission reduction goals and tasks. Due to the complex ore composition and low iron grade, vanadium–bearing titanomagnetite smelting in a blast furnace consumes more coke and emits more carbon than in an ordinary blast furnace. Injecting hydrogen–rich gas into blast furnace can not only partially replace coke, but also reduce the carbon emission. Based on the whole furnace and zonal energy and mass balance of blast furnace, the operation window of the blast furnace smelting vanadium–bearing titanomagnetite is established in this study on the premise that the thermal state of the blast furnace is basically unchanged (raceway adiabatic flame temperature and top gas temperature). The effects of different injection amounts of hydrogen–rich gases (shale gas, coke oven gas, and hydrogen) on raceway adiabatic flame temperature and top gas temperature, and the influence of blast temperature and preheating temperature of hydrogen–rich gases on operation window are calculated and analyzed. This study provides a certain theoretical reference for the follow–up practice of hydrogen–rich smelting of vanadium–bearing titanomagnetite in blast furnace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The fatigue crack growth behavior of the BM, HAZ and WM materials of EH690 steel welded joint were investigated. • Weld residual stress in EH690 steel joints was predicted, accounting for solid phase transformation effects. • Stress ratio effects on FCGR in welded joints were quantified with the optimized Walker model and precise material constants. • Microscopic fracture features in different zones of EH690 welded joints were observed using SEM. EH690 high-strength steel (HSS) is extensively utilized in marine engineering due to its exceptional strength. The fatigue crack growth (FCG) behaviors of EH690 HSS welded joints in different zones (base metal (BM), heat-affected zone (HAZ), and weld metal (WM)) were investigated by conducting FCG tests with various stress ratios (R). The results demonstrate that the WM and HAZ materials exhibit enhanced resistance to FCG compared to the BM material. The higher stress ratios result in increased fatigue crack growth rates (FCGRs). The welded residual stress (WRS) distribution in the welded joints was predicted considering solid-state phase transformation (SSPT). Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of the WRS influence on FCG behavior shows that the residual compressive stress enhances the material's resistance to FCG. Additionally, the effect of R on the FCG behavior of the material was investigated by employing the Walker model, and the applicability of the Walker model was discussed as well. Finally, the FCG mechanisms of the different zones in the welded joint were investigated from a microscopic perspective, further exploring the influence of R on the FCG behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZLDI-8 is an A disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain 17 (ADAM17) inhibitor that suppresses the shedding of Notch1 to the Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD). In previous studies, we found that ZLDI-8 was able to sensitize HCC to sorafenib, but the mechanism of action remains unclear. The sensitizing effects of ZLDI-8 were tested both in vitro and in vivo. EMT-related factors, sorafenib sensitivity-related proteins and ECM-related gene expression were assessed using immunohistochemistry, RT PCR and Western blotting. Knockdown assays were conducted to determine the relationship between the Notch and Integrin pathways. CoIP assays, nuclear and cytoplasmic fractionation and immunofluorescence colocalization were applied to explore the interaction between the Notch and Integrin pathways. Appropriate statistical analysis methods were used to assess the significance of the experimental results and to ensure the scientific validity and reliability of the experimental design. We found that ECM- and EMT-related proteins were downregulated after ZLDI-8 treatment (P <0.05). ZLDI-8 significantly downregulated Integrinβ1 and Integrinβ3 in HCC in vitro and in vivo (P <0.05), possibly through Foxc2-dependent regulation. Mechanistically, interfering with the expression of both Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) and the NICD may downregulate the expression of proteins targeted by sorafenib, thereby sensitizing cells to sorafenib. The retroregulation of Integrinβ by ILK may occur through the interaction between the NICD and ILK and may be the result of the translocation of the complexus. Our study indicates that blocking the Notch pathway may affect Integrinβ through crosstalk between the Notch1 and Integrinβ/ILK signaling pathways, thus providing a potential therapeutic strategy for HCC. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the survival outcome of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) (chemotherapy or chemotherapy and intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT) followed by radical surgery and of concomitant chemotherapy and radiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with locally advanced cervical adenocarcinoma and identify predictors of cervical adenocarcinoma. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our medical records of cervical adenocarcinoma patients treated with either NAT + surgery or CCRT in our institution from January 2013 to December 2017. The patients were treated with two-dimensional radiotherapy or three-dimensional-conformal or intensity-modulated radiotherapy combined with intracavitary brachytherapy. The regimen of concomitant chemotherapy was weekly cisplatin. The neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was paclitaxel plus cisplatin. The primary end points were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results: We enrolled 121 patients. There were 42 (34.7%) patients in the NAT + surgery group and 79 (65.3%) in the CCRT group. After univariate multivariate analysis, NAT was an independent predictor of OS (p = 0.008) and PFS (p = 0.006). After propensity score matching, the 5-year OS rates in the NAT + surgery and CCRT groups were 25% and 4%, respectively (p = 0.00014), and the 5-year PFS rates were 25% and 4%, respectively (p = 0.00015). Subgroup analysis showed that the 5-year OS and PFS rates in the NACT + surgery and CCRT groups were both 20% and 8%, respectively (p = 0.015). Conclusion: Compared with CCRT, NAT followed by radical surgery had better OS and PFS in locally advanced cervical adenocarcinoma. In subgroup analysis, OS and PFS were longer for NACT + surgery than for CCRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we analyze the case of TD-SCDMA system standardization in China. Specifically, we focus on the leading role that government-controlled enterprises (GCEs) played in the standardization, and how the Chinese government supported GCEs. The case study findings advance current knowledge on how governments support standardization efforts in a catching-up context. We found that, under strong government support and with GCEs’ leadership, a latecomer country such as China, with certain technological capabilities and in economic, social, and institutional contexts that favor indigenous innovation, can pursue path-breaking innovation with complex technological systems. Governments should engage in various tactics to support GCEs that lead the standardization process. Most importantly, governments should intervene in scoping decisions on technological systems and research and development forces in the standard development stage, and offer moral suasion in the standard diffusion stage. We provide practical implications for governments that support GCEs in technology catching-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver damage is a common liver disorder, which could induce liver cancer. Oral antioxidant is one of the effective treatments to prevent and alleviate liver damage. In this study, three flavonoids namely myricetin, isoquercitrin, and isorhamnetin were isolated and identified from Laba garlic. The isolated compounds were investigated on the protective effects against H2O2‐induced oxidative damages in hepatic L02 cells and apoptosis inducing mechanism in hepatic cancer cells HepG2 by using MTT assay, flow cytometry and western blotting analysis. Myricetin, isoquercitrin, and isorhamnetin showed proliferation inhibition on HepG2 cells with IC50 value of 44.32 ± 0.213 µM, 49.68 ± 0.192 µM, and 54.32 ± 0.176 µM, respectively. While they showed low toxicity on normal cell lines L02. They could significantly alleviate the oxidative damage towards L02 cells (P < 0.05), via inhibiting the morphological changes in mitochondria and upholding the integrity of mitochondrial structure and function. The fluorescence intensity of L02 cells pre‐treated with myricetin, isoquercitrin, and isorhamnetin (100 µM) was 89.23 ± 1.26%, 89.35 ± 1.43% and 88.97 ± 0.79%, respectively. Moreover, the flavonoids could induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells via Bcl‐2/Caspase pathways, where it could up‐regulate the expression of Bax and down‐regulate the expression of Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL, pro‐Caspase‐3, and pro‐Caspase‐9 proteins in a dose dependent manner. Overall, the results suggested that the flavonoids from Laba garlic might be a promising candidate for the treatment of various liver disorders. Practical Application: Flavonoids from Laba garlic showed selective toxicity towards HepG2 cells in comparison to L02 cells via regulating Bcl‐2/caspase pathway. Additionally, the isolated flavonoids expressively barred the oxidative damage induced by H2O2 in L02 cells. These results suggested that the flavonoids from laba garlic could be a promising agent towards the development of functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polysaccharides (CSPw, CSPc, CSPa, and CSPu) were prepared by hot water extraction, acid-assisted extraction, alkaline-assisted extraction, and ultrasound-assisted extraction from corn silk, respectively. High performance gel permeation chromatography (HPGPC), fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results indicated that the extraction methods had an obvious impact on the molecular weight, structure, and morphology of the CSPs. Among the four polysaccharides, CSPu showed the highest inhibitory α-glucosidase activity, which might be related to its smaller molecular weight. Furthermore, kinetics analyses revealed that CSPu had significant inhibition of α-glucosidase in a non-reversible and competitive manner. Fluorescence quenching analysis illustrated that the interaction mechanism of CSPu and α-glucosidase was claimed as a static quenching mechanism. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) analysis showed that the main driving forces for the interaction of CSPu with α-glucosidase was hydrogen bonding and the binding interactions of them occurred spontaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium depletion and enrichment in the cosmos is not yet well understood. To help tighten constraints on stellar and Galactic evolution models, we present the largest high-resolution analysis of Li abundances A (Li) to date, with results for over |$100\, 000$| GALAH (Galactic Archeology with HERMES) field stars spanning effective temperatures |$5900\, \mathrm{K} \lesssim T_{\mathrm{eff}}\lesssim 7000\, \mathrm{K}$| and metallicities −3 ≲ [Fe/H] ≲ +0.5. We separated these stars into two groups, on the warm and cool sides of the so-called Li dip, a localized region of the Kiel diagram wherein lithium is severely depleted. We discovered that stars in these two groups show similar trends in the A (Li)–[Fe/H] plane, but with a roughly constant offset in A (Li) of |$0.4\, \mathrm{dex}$|⁠ , the warm group having higher Li abundances. At |$\rm [Fe/H]\gtrsim -0.5$|⁠ , a significant increase in Li abundance with increasing metallicity is evident in both groups, signalling the onset of significant Galactic production. At lower metallicity, stars in the cool group sit on the Spite plateau, showing a reduced lithium of around |$0.4\, \mathrm{dex}$| relative to the primordial value predicted from big bang nucleosynthesis (BBN). However, stars in the warm group between [Fe/H] = −1.0 and −0.5 form an elevated plateau that is largely consistent with the BBN prediction. This may indicate that these stars in fact preserve the primordial Li produced in the early Universe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The structural features of LEHSDF were characterized. • LEHSDF effectively inhibited the lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells and PL activity. • LEHSDF did not bind to BS, but exhibited a strong binding effect to PL. • LEHSDF-PL showed interaction forces of hydrophobic forces, electrostatic forces, encapsulation and adsorption. Aimed to evaluate the hypolipidemic effects of high molecular weight soluble dietary fiber extracted from L. edodes (LEHSDF), this study investigated the structure and interaction mechanism of LEHSDF with pancreatic lipase (PL) and bile salts (BS) that were involved in lipid digestion. 1D/2D NMR spectra indicated that the main chain of LEHSDF consisted of (1 → 2,4)-linked β-D-arabinopyranosyl, (1 → 3)-linked α-L-rhamnopyranosyl, (1 → 4)-linked β-D-xylopyranosyl, (1 → 6)-linked and (1 → 4)-linked β-D-glucopyranosyl, with β-D-galactopyranosyl and α-D-mannopyranosyl as terminal unit. Oil red O staining results suggested that LEHSDF had an effective inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation in HepG2 cells. Isothermal titration calorimetry, fluorescence and circular dichroism spectra showed that BS did not specifically bind to LEHSDF, and the strong inhibitory effect of LEHSDF on lipase was dominated by hydrophobic forces, electrostatic forces, encapsulation and adsorption interactions. The results will be helpful for the design of food containing LEHSDF as a functional additive to control lipid digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inonotus obliquus is a traditional mushroom well known for its therapeutic value. In this study, various solvent fractions of I. obliquus were preliminarily screened for their antioxidant, α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibition properties. To improve the drug delivery, the active fraction (ethyl acetate fraction) of I. obliquus was synthesized into fungisome (ethyl acetate phophotidyl choline complex, EAPC) and its physical parameters were assessed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), and ς potential analysis. Then normal human hepatic L02 cells was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of EAPC. The results showed that EA fraction possesses significant free radical scavenging, α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibition properties. FTIR, SEM, and HPLC analysis confirmed the fungisome formation. The particle size of EAPC was 102.80 ± 0.42 nm and the ς potential was −54.30 ± 0.61 mV. The percentage of drug entrapment efficiency was 97.13% and the drug release rates of EAPC in simulated gastric fluid and simulated intestinal fluid were 75.04 ± 0.29% and 93.03 ± 0.36%, respectively. EAPC was nontoxic to L02 cells, however it could selectively fight against the H2O2 induced oxidative damage in L02 cells. This is the first study to provide scientific information to utilize the active fraction of I. obliquus as fungisome. Practical Applications: Inonotus obliquus (IO) is a traditional medicinal fungus. The extracts of IO have obvious antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. Ethyl acetate (EA) fraction of IO was encapsulated in liposomes to form EAPC. EAPC has a sustained‐release effect. It has nontoxic to L02 cells and could protect L02 cells from oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. This study could provide new ideas for the treatment of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Array waveguide gratings (AWGs) have been widely used in multi-purpose and multi-functional integrated photonic devices for Microwave photonics (MWP) systems. In this paper, we compare the effect of output waveguide configurations on the performance of AWGs. The AWG with an output waveguide converging on the grating circle had larger crosstalk and lower nonuniformity. We also fabricated a 1 × 8 AWG with an output waveguide converging onto the SOI's grating circle, whose central operation wavelength was around 1550 nm. The fabricated AWG has a chip size of 500 μm × 450 μm. Experimental results show that the adjacent channel crosstalk is −12.68 dB. The center channel insertion loss, as well as 3 dB bandwidth, are 4.18 dB and 1.22 nm at 1550 nm, respectively. The nonuniformity is about 0.494 dB, and the free spectral range is 19.4 nm. The proposed AWG is expected to play an important role in future MWP systems given its good nonuniformity and insertion loss level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation During development of the mammalian embryo, histone modification H3K4me3 plays an important role in regulating gene expression and exhibits extensive reprograming on the parental genomes. In addition to these dramatic epigenetic changes, certain unchanging regulatory elements are also essential for embryonic development. Results Using large-scale H3K4me3 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing data, we identified a form of H3K4me3 that was present during all eight stages of the mouse embryo before implantation. This 'stable H3K4me3' was highly accessible and much longer than normal H3K4me3. Moreover, most of the stable H3K4me3 was in the promoter region and was enriched in higher chromatin architecture. Using in-depth analysis, we demonstrated that stable H3K4me3 was related to higher gene expression levels and transcriptional initiation during embryonic development. Furthermore, stable H3K4me3 was much more active in blood tumor cells than in normal blood cells, suggesting a potential mechanism of cancer progression. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laba garlic is a kind of processed garlic products, it is the traditional Chinese food with a long history. In this study, the antitumor, antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of the blue pigment (BP) from Laba garlic were investigated. N - trans -feruloyltyramine (FLA) was isolated and identified from BP. The protective effects of FLA against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damages in L02 cells were also assessed. The apoptotic effects of FLA were detected by using flow cytometry analysis. Results showed that the tumor growth was significantly suppressed by BP (P< 0.05). BP and FLA exhibited remarkable antioxidant activities. L02 cells pretreatment with FLA could significantly fight against the oxidative damage induced by H 2 O 2 , inhibit the morphological changes of mitochondria and maintain the integrity of mitochondria. FLA showed proliferation inhibition on HepG2 cells with IC 50 value of 194 ± 0.894 μM. After treatment of FLA (320 μM), the results of MTT assay on HepG2 and L02 cells indicated that FLA had selective cytotoxic effects. It suggested a new way of prevention and treatment of tumors and FLA might be a promising candidate in cancer therapy and functional foods. Image 1 • The blue pigment from Laba garlic has strong antitumor and antioxidant effects. • Isolation and identification of N - tran -ferulotyramine (FLA) from the blue pigment. • FLA inhibits the growth of HepG2 cells and exhibits no toxicity. • FLA protects the L02 cells fight against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The penetration resistance potential of ultra-high-performance hybrid fiber reinforced cementitious composite (UHP-HFRCC) was investigated at fiber content of 2 %. Plain cementitious composite (PCC) versus 12 groups of UHP-HFRCC materials with various fiber mixtures were adopted herein for comparative analyses. The uniaxial compression tests were conducted to determine the 7-d and 28-d compressive strength indicating that the steel fiber outperforms the polypropylene fiber and polyvinyl alcohol fiber in improving compressive strength. The subsequent penetration tests for each mixture UHP-HFRCC target were performed and the penetration resistant performance was evaluated in terms of depth of penetration (DOP) and crater area. The experimental results suggested that the penetration resistance improvement potential of steel fiber reinforced cementitious composite goes moderately ahead of that of the polypropylene fibers or polyvinyl alcohol fibers cementitious composite. For the UHP-HFRCC targets, the steel fiber proportion increase generally resulted in the reduction of DOP and crater area. Besides, the hybrid batch target with 3 kinds of fibers might exhibit greater penetration resistant performance compared to the steel fiber hybrid mixture with polypropylene or polyvinyl alcohol fiber. Cavity expansion analysis was applied to develop the DOP analytical model for UHP-HFRCC penetration whereby the target resistance parameter was best fitted. Finally, the fiber hybrid reinforcement effect of UHP-HFRCC on the penetration resistance was evaluated via the hybrid effect index. The combination of steel fiber and polypropylene fiber leads to a positive effect against penetration while the incorporation of steel fiber and polyvinyl alcohol fiber to cementitious composite generally poses a negative effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The HFRHSC target penetration resistance under multi-impact was assessed. • The poor consolidation conditions may deduce the penetration resistance. • The steel fiber attribute to the better penetration resistance. • The damage accumulated by second impact is less significant. Abstract In this paper, the penetration resistance potential of hybrid-fiber-reinforced high-strength concrete (HFRHSC) is investigated at fiber content of 2%. 12 batches of HFRHSC materials with various hybridizations were manufactured for comparative analyses of hybridization. The uniaxial compression tests were conducted to determine the 7-day and 28-day compressive strength indicating that the steel fiber outperforms the polypropylene fiber and polyvinyl alcohol fiber in improving compressive strength. The sequent multi-impact penetration tests for each mixture HFRHSC target were carried out with projectile impact locations in equilateral triangle shape whereas the penetration response was evaluated in terms of depth of penetration (DOP) and crater area. The experimental results indicate that the penetration resistance improvement potential of steel fiber reinforced concrete goes moderately ahead of that of the polypropylene or polyvinyl alcohol fiber reinforced concrete. Besides, the DOP caused by multi-impact implies the penetration resistance is remarkably decayed by the first impact while the second penetration poses much less deterioration. Moreover, cavity expansion analysis together with impact damage were applied to the DOP analytical model for HFRHSC multi-impact penetration whereby the target resistance term corresponding each impact was achieved via best fitting. The accumulated damage is also found to be dependent on the hybridization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The instinct feature of π-bridges of donor-π-acceptor (D-π-A) conjugated polymers plays a critical role in tailoring the polymer basic properties as well as the photovoltaic performance. In this work, we designed two new D-π-A polymers PSeBDDIDT and PTzBDDIDT based on donor unit indacenodithiophene (IDT), acceptor unit benzo[1,2-c:4,5-c']dithiophene-4,8-dione (BDD) with varying π-conjugated bridges of selenophene and thiazole units. Compared to the counterpart polymer PThBDDIDT with thiophene π-bridge, polymers PSeBDDIDT and PTzBDDIDT exhibited enhanced intermolecular interactions, expanded absorption range and better molecular planarity arising from the suppressed steric hindrance between the respective bridge and the adjacent BDD moiety. Conventional polymer solar cells were fabricated with PC 71 BM as the acceptor. The results witness a greatly improved efficiency for PSeBDDIDT based solar cell compared to PThBDDIDT based counterpart device (7.04%). As a result, the champion PCE of 8.65% was recorded with V OC of 0.899 V, J SC of 16.04 mA cm−2 and FF of 0.60. It is worth highlighting that this is the highest efficiency among all IDT-based polymeric donors reported till now. As a contrast, the devices fabricated from PTzBDDIDT demonstrated a low efficiency of 2.75%, with increased V OC of 0.968 V, J SC of 8.12 mA cm−2 and FF of 0.35. The inferior photocurrent and fill factor of PTzBDDIDT based device was in accord with the poor exciton dissociation probability (38%) and low hole and electron charge transport inside the polymer solar cell. In conclusion, this work demonstrates a state of the art IDT-based polymeric donor with selenophene π-bridge and the importance of rational regulation of π-bridges on polymer properties and photovoltaic efficiency of polymer solar cells. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • This is the highest indacenodithiophene polymers solar cells efficiency report. • Selenophene π-bridge can improve the photovoltaic performance. • Selenophene is better than thiophene and thiazole π-bridge in this polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the heaviest malignant burdens in China. Molecular targeting agent, sorafenib, is the main therapeutic option for antitumor therapy of advanced HCC, but it is currently too expensive for the public and its therapeutic effect does not satisfy initial expectation. Therefore, it is important to develop more effective molecular targeted therapeutic strategies for advanced HCC. Materials and methods: The antitumor effects of sorafenib or ARQ-197, an antagonist of c-MET (tyrosine-protein kinase Met or hepatocyte growth factor receptor), were examined by MTT or in murine tumor model. The effect of ARQ-197 on epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) or multidrug resistance (MDR) was examined by quantitative real-time PCR for the expression of related genes. The clearance of sorafenib in HCC cells was detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry. Results: ARQ-197 treatment enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib. Mechanistic studies indicated that ARQ-197 inhibited the expression of EMT- and MDR-related genes. Moreover, ARQ-197 treatment decelerated the clearance of sorafenib in cultured HCC cells and subcutaneous HCC tumors in nude mice. Conclusion: In the present work, our data suggested that ARQ-197 decelerated the clearance of sorafenib in HCC cells and enhanced the antitumor effect of sorafenib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a mathematical modelling of a wireless power transfer system with a buck circuit is presented. Based on this modelling, an operator-based robust nonlinear control design scheme using sliding mode technology is proposed to consider the uncertain coupling coefficient, which results from an inaccurate distance between the transmit coil and receive coil in the wireless power transfer system. The proposed control design scheme has two advantages. First, in order to tackle the uncertain coupling coefficient, operator-based right coprime factorization is applied to guarantee robust stability of the nonlinear system. Sliding mode technology is also adopted to guarantee the tracking performance of the nonlinear system. Finally, simulations and experiments of the wireless power transfer system are tested using the proposed control design scheme. Results of both the simulations and experiments show the effectiveness of the proposed control design scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Switched reluctance drive (SRD) has become one of the best choices for electric vehicle drive because it exhibits prominent advantages over other kinds of electric drive system. In this paper, the effects of load torque, turn-on and turn-off angle on the torque ripple and electric efficiency of the SRD are thoroughly analyzed based on the nonlinear dynamic model of switched reluctance motor (SRM). To reduce the torque ripple and improve the electric efficiency, a novel double-index synchronous optimization policy is proposed. Under different load torques and speeds, the model of adjustable turn-on and turn-off angle is established using the proposed optimization policy. Compared with conventional optimization strategies, the proposed method is verified to be effective for torque ripple suppression and electric efficiency improvement of the SRD simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the antioxidant activity, anti-glycation activity, α-amylase, α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of polysaccharides from Inonotus obliquus (UIOPS) and its chromium (III) complex (UIOPC) were investigated. Their protective effects against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damages in hepatic L02 cells were also assessed. Results demonstrated that UIOPC and UIOPS exhibited remarkable DPPH scavenging activity, ferric reducing power and hemolysis inhibitory activity. UIOPC also showed significant inhibitory capacity on α-amylase and α-glucosidase than UIOPS ( P  < 0.05), suggesting a good regulation of the postprandial hyperglycemia. Three phases of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation were effectively inhibited by UIOPC and UIOPS. Moreover, pretreatment with UIOPC and UIOPS markedly attenuated the oxidative damage induced by H 2 O 2 in hepatic L02 cells via enhancing the cell viability, inhibiting the morphology alteration and maintaining the integrity of mitochondria. These results indicated that the anti-diabetic mechanism of UIOPC might involve in the homoeostasis of blood glucose and the recovery of endogenous antioxidant system. The elucidation of the potential anti-diabetic mechanism will facilitate the further study and application of the polysaccharides-metal complex in the functional food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the welding process of high-strength steel (HSS), the intense temperature change in joints induces the formation of welding residual stress (WRS), which increases the fatigue crack growth rate. Developing an effective finite element (FE) model for accurately predicting the WRS distribution is critical to improve the quality of welded structures. Experimental tests and numerical simulations were carried out to investigate the WRS distribution of EQ56 HSS. The thermal expansion curves at various heating and cooling rates were measured through thermal simulation experiments for achieving the continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagram of EQ56 HSS. Based on the CCT diagram, the thermo-metallurgical-mechanical (TMM) FE model was developed to consider the influence of solid-state phase transformation (SSPT) on distribution and magnitude of WRS for welded EQ56 HSS joints, as well as material hardening law. Comparison of predicted WRS distribution and experimental data shows that plastic hardening laws of materials significantly affect the precision of WRS distribution, and combined hardening law gives most reliable prediction. The FE model considering SSPT behavior provides more accurate estimation of WRS distribution than those without considering SSPT behavior. • Basic mechanical properties, thermophysical properties and thermal expansion curves of EQ56 HSS were determined. • Continuous cooling transformation curve of EQ56 HSS was obtained from the thermal expansion curves. • Thermo-metallurgical-mechanical FE models considering solid-state phase transition (SSPT) behavior were developed. • Effects of material hardening law and SSPT on welding residual stress distribution were investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallofullerenes are an important type of metallic nanomaterial with promising applications in several medical fields. Thermal ablation, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA), is an important treatment strategy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The thermal expansion of fullerenes makes them good adjuncts to thermal ablation treatment of HCC. In this study, we used an innovative method of emulsification and cross-linking to produce CS-C60-Fe3O4 (Chitosan-C60-Fe3O4) nanoparticles, which have the advantages of uniform particle size and high bioavailability, as a kind of novel nano-pharmaceutical. The CS-C60-Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared by the cross-linking reaction from chitosan–acetic acid solution, Fe3O4 nanoparticles by Fe2SO4·7H2O and FeCl3·6H2O, and C60. The average particle size of CS-C60-Fe3O4 was 194.3 nm. Because CS-C60-Fe3O4 is magnetic, it can achieve specific and tissue aggregation in HCC tumor tissues. Moreover, compared with normal soluble C60 (EL35-C60), CS-C60-Fe3O4 prolonged the retention time of C60 in the blood of mice. CS-C60-Fe3O4 alone is not cytotoxic to cultured cells or tumor tissues, but when combined with thermal ablation strategies (RFA and MWA), it significantly upregulates the antitumor effects of thermal ablation on HCC tissues, that is, it acts as a sensitiser to thermal ablation. In the presence of thermal ablation, CS-C60-Fe3O4 interfered with iron metabolism in HCC cells and induced ferroptosis of HCC cells in the tumor tissues. These results not only expand our understanding of metallofullerenes but also provide additional options for the treatment of advanced HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the trajectory instability and convergence of the curvilinear motion of a hard projectile in deep penetration, based on rigid body dynamics and the differential area force law. It is observed that both sudden (instable) and gradual (curvilinear) changes of the projectile trajectory may happen under certain conditions depending on projectile geometry, target property, impact velocity and other striking parameters. A criterion is introduced to determine the occurrence of trajectory instability. Two characteristic velocities are identified, i.e. (a) the critical impact velocity for the occurrence of trajectory instability, and (b) the characteristic convergent velocity, at which the projectile trajectory turns to a straight line (linear motion) from the curvilinear motion, which is supported by experimental evidence. It is shown that both the critical impact velocity and the characteristic convergent velocity depend linearly on the relative location of projectile's centre of mass. However, the characteristic convergent velocity is independent of the non-axisymmetrical disturbance and impact velocity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The probability of offshore platforms suffering to extreme cyclic loads, such as storm surges and typhoons, increases highly at deep sea. It is essential to achieve the hysteresis behavior of steel material for evaluating the dynamic response of offshore platform under cyclic load. A total of 18 coupons are fabricated from the EQ56 high strength steel (HSS) plate to investigate the monotonic and cyclic behaviors. Loading protocols include monotonic tension, constant amplitude and changing amplitude strain-controlled cyclic loadings. It is revealed that the visco-plastic behavior of EQ56 HSS is insignificant under the monotonic tension at room temperature. The EQ56 HSS presents obvious Bauschinger effect, non-masing rule, stress hardening/softening behavior and strain history memory effect under strain-controlled cyclic loading. The prior loading history at low strain-amplitude levels has little effect on the saturation stress of EQ56 HSS while stress hardening can be reactivated to a new saturation level when the applied strain-amplitude is increased. The monotonic and the cyclic hysteresis curves of EQ56 HSS were compared, and hysteretic skeleton curves are fitted using the Ramberg-Osgood model. The essential parameters of the Chaboche combined hardening model are calibrated to describe the cyclic behavior of EQ56 HSS. The comparison between FE simulation and test results demonstrates that this model cannot characterize effectively the hysteretic behavior of EQ56 HSS because the strain history memory effect and coupled behavior of cyclic stress softening and hardening are ignored in its constitutive equation. • Tensile and uniaxial cyclic tests were carried out on EQ56 high strength steel materials. • Hysteresis behaviors of EQ56 HSS under strain-controlled cyclic loadings are analyzed. • Hysteretic skeleton curves were fitted using the Ramberg-Osgood model. • Parameters of Chaboche combined hardening model were calibrated to characterize the hysteresis behavior of EQ56 HSS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asian countries are becoming more and more active in participating technology standard development. In this paper we study the impact of this change on multinational enterprises (MNEs) using the case of TD-SCDMA, an international technology standard of 3G mobile communications. During the development of this technology standard, MNEs׳ market share dropped dramatically. A major contribution of this study is analyzing the underlying mechanism governing MNEs׳ interpreting TD-SCDMA as a threat rather than an opportunity by integrating two streams of literature. We also discuss the possible strategies for MNEs to maintain their market leadership position when local firms are able to lead international technology standard development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transverse impact resistance behaviour of pipe-in-pipe submarine pipelines after 15 years of service is studied experimentally and numerically. From drop hammer impact tests of 4 full-scale specimens, the influence of specimens' span, corrosion and dent defect on the transverse impact resistance is studied in terms of failure mode, impact force-time history curves, displacement-time history curves, strain-time history curves and impact force-displacement curves. The experimental results indicate that the dynamic failure process consists of four stages, including primary vibration stage, secondary vibration stage, stable stage and unloading stage. As the suspension span of the specimen increases, the primary failure mode changes from local indentation to global bending deformation. The corrosion and the dent defect impair the impact resistance. Finite element (FE) models are then established and verified through comparison with experimental results. Numerical analyses indicate that the total impact energy is mainly dissipated by the outer pipe and the inner pipe according to the energy dissipation analysis for each component of the pipe-in-pipe specimens under transverse impact load. Parametric study is implemented finally to disclose the influence of the dimensions of pre-existing corrosion and dent defect on the transverse impact behavior of pipe-in-pipe submarine pipelines. • Impact tests were carried out on 4 full-scale serviced submarine pipe-in-pipe specimens. • Dynamic failure process of submarine pipe-in-pipes under transverse impact is analyzed. • Energy dissipation of specimens under transverse impact is quantified. • Effects of pre-existing corrosion and dent defect on transverse impact resistance are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper explored the key factors affecting catching up through technology standard development by studying the evolution of TD-SCDMA, one of the three international standards of 3G mobile communications, in China. It was found that this was a complex co-evolution process between firm strategy and government policy aimed mainly at solving the challenges of late-comer disadvantages. The paper also examined the unique features of this co-evolution process, including the importance of the informal social network of non-customer stakeholders, and discussed the theoretical and practical implications of the key findings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper explored the key factors affecting catching up through technology standard development by studying the evolution of TD-SCDMA, one of the three international standards of 3G mobile communications, in China. It was found that this was a complex co-evolution process between firm strategy and government policy aimed mainly at solving the challenges of late-comer disadvantages. The paper also examined the unique features of this co-evolution process, including the importance of the informal social network of non-customer stakeholders, and discussed the theoretical and practical implications of the key findings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Solid-state 13C, 19F, and 15Nmagic angle spinning NMR studies of Form I of atorvastatin calciumare reported, including chemical shift tensors of all resolvable carbonsites and fluorine sites. The complete 13C and 19F chemical shift assignments are given based on an extensive analysisof 13C–1H HETCOR and 13C–19F HETCOR results. The solid-state NMR data indicate thatthe asymmetric unit of this material contains two atorvastatin molecules.A possible structure of Form I of atorvastatin calcium (ATC-I), derivedfrom solid-state NMR data and density functional theory calculationsof various structures, is proposed for this important active pharmaceuticalingredient (API). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Argpyrimidine (APMD), a methylglyoxal‐arginine‐derived product, is one of the main products of diabetes mellitus. We aimed to systematically investigate the role of APMD in regulating autophagy activity, with a specific focus on the finding of APDM binding molecule, matching amino acid residues, autophagy flux and proteins, cell cycle arrest, cell skeleton and migration, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, inflammatory signals, alveolar bone destruction, and inhibition verification. In this study, binding to 59/94/121 amino acid residues of advanced glycosylation end product receptor (RAGE), APMD suppressed PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway to attenuate cell survival of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). Simultaneously, autophagy proteins ATG5, Beclin1, and LC3‐II/I expression ratio were upregulated while P62/SQSTM was downregulated. Cell cycle arrested at G0/G1 with enhancing Cyclin D1/CDK4 and decreasing Cyclin A/CDK2 expression. Inhibition of autophagy abrogated APMD‐induced cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the inflammation regulation network of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2, MMP‐9, MAPKs and NF‐κB pathways were activated by APMD. Rat periodontal models confirmed that APMD induced alveolar bone resorption, increased inflammatory infiltrates, and degraded collagen fibers through RAGE and PI3K. APMD‐induced autophagy, G0/G1 arrest, pro‐inflammatory signals activating and periodontal destruction were reversed by RAGE knockdown while aggravated by PI3K inhibitor. This study provides the first evidence that APMD bind to RAGE to regulate autophagy and cell cycle of PDLCs through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, thereby promoting periodontal destruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing and synthesizing new organic photovoltaic materials is an inexhaustible driving force for the development of polymer solar cells (PSCs). For an excellent molecular structure with a certain conjugated skeleton, studying its analogues is of considerable significance for fully exploiting its photovoltaic potential. In this work, naphtho[2,3- c thiophene-4,9-dione (NTD), an analogue of benzo [1,2-c:4,5-c']dithiophene-4,8-dione (BDD), was designed and synthesized. Based on this building block, alkoxy side chains and alkylthio side chains were grafted on NTD to build NTD-O and NTD-S unit respectively, and then two new D-A conjugated donor polymers, PBNO and PBNS, were synthesized with NTD-O and NTD-S units as acceptor units and asymmetric benzodithiophene unit (asy-BDTBP) as donor units. Later, the photoelectric properties of these two materials in fullerene PSCs were studied. Compared with BDD based benzodithiophene copolymer (asy-BDTBP-BDD), PBNO and PBNS show similar LUMO energy levels, −3.59 eV and −3.63 eV, respectively, PBNO and PBNS show higher HOMO energy levels, which are −5.25 eV and −5.37 eV, respectively. PBNO blended with fullerene acceptor PC 71 BM exhibited similar power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to the copolymer asy-BDTBP-BDD (4.64%). The PCE is 4.71% with short-circuit current density (J SC) of 9.85 mA cm−2, open-circuit voltage (V OC) of 0.784 V and fill factor (FF) of 60.98%. Encouragingly, PBNS presented an obviously enhanced PCE in PC 71 BM system PSCs, and PCE boosted to 7.58% (J SC , 12.40 mA cm−2; V OC , 0.865 V; FF, 70.83%). This work shows that analogues of excellent molecules have huge photovoltaic potential, and that side-chain modification has a significant impact on improving the photovoltaic performance of PSCs. Image 1 • Asymmetric BDT-based D-A copolymer as donor material for organic solar cells. • NTD-unit side chain modification of alkoxy chain and alkylthio chain. • New donor material suitable for fullerene organic solar cells. • Compared with BDD-based copolymers, PCE is significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of API 5L X56 submarine pipes subjected to transverse impact is investigated through both drop weight impact tests and finite element simulations. To study the improvement of resistance to transverse impact for pipe-in-pipe specimens, corresponding single-layer pipe specimens under impacting load were also tested for comparison. From the experimental tests, the failure mode, the impact force-time history curve, the displacement-time history curve, the strain-time history curve and the impact force - displacement curve of all specimens were obtained. The pipe-in-pipe specimens are found to have superior performance to resist impacting loading compared to single-layer specimens because smaller global bending deformation and local indentation were observed in them. In addition, the cross-section deformation rate, R , was proposed, and the local indentation length of the specimen was divided into three zones based on experimental observation and numerical simulation. A comprehensive comparison of the length and the depth of local indentation in the pipe-in-pipe specimens shows that the local indentation decreases and the impact resistance increases due to the presence of the inner tube. Finally, the post-peak mean force (P m) and the energy absorption capacity (EAC) were used to evaluate the energy dissipation mechanism of different specimens. The results also indicate that the pipe-in-pipe specimens have better energy absorption performance. • Impact tests on 5 pipe-in-pipe specimens and 3 single-layer pipe specimens were conducted. • Failure mode, time history curves of impact force, displacement and strain, and impact force-displacement curve are obtained. • Difference of impact resistance between pipe-in-pipe and single-layer pipe specimens is compared and analyzed. • Post-peak mean force and energy absorption capacity are used to evaluate energy dissipation mechanism of pipes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garlic protein (GP) was enzymatically hydrolyzed using pepsin and trypsin followed by the evaluation of antioxidant and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities of GP and its hydrolysates. The antihypertensive effects of GP and its hydrolysates were determined in vivo. The results showed that GP and its hydrolysates namely GPH‐P (pepsin) and GPH‐T (trypsin) possessed appreciable antioxidant and ACE inhibitory activities. The ACE inhibitory activity of GP, GPH‐T, and GPH‐P was in consistent with their antioxidant activities. GP and its hydrolysates offered significant protective effects against H2O2‐induced oxidative damage (p <.05). In addition, the administration of GP, GPH‐T, and GPH‐P reduced the blood pressure in hypertensive rats. The mechanism might be to reduce blood pressure by inhibiting the activity of ACE, reducing the formation of ACEII, and protecting the activity of bradykinin. This study suggested that GP might be utilized as a promising functional food as antioxidant and antihypertensive agents. Practical applications: Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest cultivated plants that belongs to the Liliaceae family and it has been used in cooking and medicinal applications. Large quantities of garlic residuals were produced with the development of the garlic essential oil industry. These residuals are highly rich in proteins and they can be used for the preparation of protein hydrolysates. Generally, hydrolysates are considered as a promising food supplement due to the enrichment of amino acids present in it. In this study, garlic proteins (GPs) and its hydrolysates retain effective antioxidant effects. They were found to reduce the blood pressure and prevent oxidative stress induced by H2O2. The information from this study could be used to develop a new nutritional supplement from GP and its hydrolysates to treat hypertension as well as prevent oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, deep learning-based video inpainting algorithms can fill in a specified video region with visually plausible content, usually leaving imperceptible traces. Since deep video inpainting methods can be used to maliciously manipulate video content, there is an urgent need for an effective method to detect and localize deep video inpainting. In this paper, we propose a dual-stream video inpainting detection network, which includes a ConvNeXt dual-stream encoder and a multi-scale feature cross-fusion decoder. To further explore the spatial and temporal traces left by deep inpainting, we extract motion residuals and enhance them using 3D convolution and SRM filtering. Furthermore, we extract filtered residuals using LoG and Laplacian filtering. These residuals are then entered into ConvNeXt, thereby learning discriminative inpainting features. To enhance detection accuracy, we design a top-down pyramid decoder that aims at deep fusion of multi-dimensional multi-scale features to fully exploit the information of different dimensions and levels in detail. We created two datasets containing state-of-the-art video inpainting algorithms and conducted various experiments to evaluate our approach. The experimental results demonstrate that our approach outperforms existing methods and attains a competitive performance despite encountering unseen inpainting algorithms. • End-to-end video inpainting detection and localization method. • Two effective residual extraction module to enhance the inpainting artifacts. • A top-down structure for fusing multi-dimensional and multi-scale features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has witnessed giant success in problem optimization. Nevertheless, its optimization performance seriously degrades when coping with optimization problems with a lot of local optima. To alleviate this issue, this paper designs a predominant cognitive learning particle swarm optimization (PCLPSO) method to effectively tackle complicated optimization problems. Specifically, for each particle, a new promising exemplar is constructed by letting its personal best position cognitively learn from a better personal experience randomly selected from those of others based on a novel predominant cognitive learning strategy. As a result, different particles preserve different guiding exemplars. In this way, the learning effectiveness and the learning diversity of particles are expectedly improved. To eliminate the dilemma that PCLPSO is sensitive to the involved parameters, we propose dynamic adjustment strategies, so that different particles preserve different parameter settings, which is further beneficial to promote the learning diversity of particles. With the above techniques, the proposed PCLPSO could expectedly compromise the search intensification and diversification in a good way to search the complex solution space properly to achieve satisfactory performance. Comprehensive experiments are conducted on the commonly adopted CEC 2017 benchmark function set to testify the effectiveness of the devised PCLPSO. Experimental results show that PCLPSO obtains considerably competitive or even much more promising performance than several representative and state-of-the-art peer methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-dimensional optimization problems are ubiquitous in every field nowadays, which seriously challenge the optimization ability of existing optimizers. To solve this kind of optimization problems effectively, this paper proposes an elite-directed particle swarm optimization (EDPSO) with historical information to explore and exploit the high-dimensional solution space efficiently. Specifically, in EDPSO, the swarm is first separated into two exclusive sets based on the Pareto principle (80-20 rule), namely the elite set containing the top best 20% of particles and the non-elite set consisting of the remaining 80% of particles. Then, the non-elite set is further separated into two layers with the same size from the best to the worst. As a result, the swarm is divided into three layers. Subsequently, particles in the third layer learn from those in the first two layers, while particles in the second layer learn from those in the first layer, on the condition that particles in the first layer remain unchanged. In this way, the learning effectiveness and the learning diversity of particles could be largely promoted. To further enhance the learning diversity of particles, we maintain an additional archive to store obsolete elites, and use the predominant elites in the archive along with particles in the first two layers to direct the update of particles in the third layer. With these two mechanisms, the proposed EDPSO is expected to compromise search intensification and diversification well at the swarm level and the particle level, to explore and exploit the solution space. Extensive experiments are conducted on the widely used CEC'2010 and CEC'2013 high-dimensional benchmark problem sets to validate the effectiveness of the proposed EDPSO. Compared with several state-of-the-art large-scale algorithms, EDPSO is demonstrated to achieve highly competitive or even much better performance in tackling high-dimensional problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrosive fatigue failure of submarine pipelines is very common because the pipeline is immersed in a sea environment. In Bohai sea, many old pipelines are made of API 5L X56 steel materials, and it is necessary to provide an accurate method for predicting the residual life of these pipelines. As Paris law has been proven to be reliable in predicting the fatigue crack growth in metal materials, the two constants in Paris law for API 5L X56 steel materials are obtained by using a new proposed shape factor based on the analysis of experimental data measured from fatigue tests on compact tension specimens immersed in the water of Bohai sea. The results of the newly proposed shape factor show that, for a given stress intensity factor range (ΔK), the fatigue crack growth rate (da/dN) in seawater is 1.6 times of that that in air. With the increase of fatigue crack growth rate, the influence of seawater on corrosive fatigue decreases gradually. Thereafter, a finite element model for analyzing the stress intensity factor of fatigue crack in pipelines is built, and the corrosive fatigue life of a submarine pipeline is then predicted according to the Paris law. To verify the presented method, the fatigue crack growth (FCG) behavior of an API 5L X56 pipeline with an initial crack under cyclic load is tested. Comparison between the prediction and the tested result indicates that the presented method is effective in evaluating the corrosive fatigue life of API 5L X56 pipelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of the present study was to determine a target gene and explore the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HER-2-positive breast cancer.Methods: Three RNA expression profiles obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the R software. A protein-protein interaction network was then constructed, and hub genes were determined. Subsequently, the relationship between clinical parameters and hub genes was examined to screen for target genes. Next, DNA methylation and genomic alterations of the target gene were evaluated. To further explore potential molecular mechanisms, a functional enrichment analysis of genes coexpressed with the target gene was performed.Results: The differential expression analysis revealed 217 DEGs in HER-2-positive breast cancer samples compared to normal breast tissues. RRM2 was the only hub gene closely associated with lymphatic metastasis and the patients' prognosis. Additionally, RRM2 was found to be consistently amplified and negatively associated with the level of methylation. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the coexpressed genes were mainly involved in cell cycle regulation.Conclusions: RRM2 was identified as a target gene associated with the initiation, progression, and prognosis of HER-2-positive breast cancer, which may be considered as a new biomarker and therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There has been limited research on the comparison of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (AC) of cervical cancer and that lack of information may have significant bearing on the treatment of patients. We compared survival outcomes between squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma in locally advanced cervical cancer patients and examined factors related to the prognosis of cervical cancer. Methods: We identified 4131 patients with stage IB2-IVA cervical cancer patients diagnosed between 2010 and 2015 by using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Variables related to the prognosis of cervical cancer were compared using both univariate and multivariate Cox models and log-rank method before and after propensity score matching. We compared the efficacy of radiotherapy alone to radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy or/and surgery in overall survival of SCC and AC. Results: Our sample included 3385 patients with SCC (81.9%) and 746 patients with AC (18.1%). The 5-year overall survival on comparing the squamous cell carcinoma group and adenocarcinoma group was not significant (P > 0.05). Using propensity score matching, 676 pairs of patients were selected. The 5-year overall survival of matched patients did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Histology was not independently associated with overall survival in multivariate Cox model (P > 0.05). Factors affecting overall survival included FIGO stage IVA (P < 0.05), chemotherapy (P < 0.05), and external radiation combined with brachytherapy (P < 0.05). Patients with SCC that were treated with radiation alone had significantly worse OS than AC patients receiving radiation only (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The OS in AC of the cervix is similar to that SCC in when treated with radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy and/or surgery but better when treated with radiation alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under a global carbon-neutralizing environment, renewable wood is a viable alternative to non-renewable resources due to its abundance and high specific strength. However, fast-growing wood is hard to be applied extensively due to low mechanical strength and poor dimensional stability and durability. In this study, epoxy-acrylic resin-modified wood was prepared by forming a functional monomer system with three monomers [glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), maleic anhydride (MAN), and polyethylene glycol-200-dimethylacrylic acid (PEGDMA)] and filling into the wood cell cavity. The results showed that in the case of an optimal monomer system of nGMA:nPEGDMA = 20:1 and an optimal MAN dosage of 6%, the conversion rate of monomers reached 98.01%, the cell cavity was evenly filled by the polymer, with the cell wall chemically bonded. Thus, a bonding strength of as high as 1.13 MPa, a bending strength of 112.6 MPa and an impact toughness of 74.85 KJ/m2 were applied to the modified wood, which presented excellent dimensional stability (720 h water absorption: 26%, and volume expansion ratio: 5.04%) and rot resistance (loss rates from white rot and brown rot: 3.05% and 0.67%). Additionally, polymer-modified wood also exhibited excellent wear resistance and heat stability. This study reports a novel approach for building new environmentally friendly wood with high strength and toughness and good structural stability and durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]