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To investigate the changes in the strength and deformation of the blast load-damaged sandstone roof plate under cyclic loading and unloading conditions at different confining pressures, a triaxial loading device was used to carry out graded cyclic unloading tests on specimens with different degrees of damage, and the test results were summarized. The effects of blast-load-induced damage, confining pressure and loading stage on the strength, cohesion, internal friction angle, residual strain and volumetric strain were analyzed. (1) Compared with that of the undamaged specimen at a confining pressure of 0 MPa, the peak stress reductions in the vibration-damaged and blast-damaged specimens were 4.93% and 9.04%, respectively. The peak stress, cohesion and internal friction angle characteristics of the undamaged specimens under triaxial cyclic loading and unloading and conventional triaxial loading were greater than those of the vibration-damaged specimens. In addition, the corresponding parameters of the vibration-damaged specimens were greater than those of the blast-damaged specimens; thus, the damage induced by the blast load reduced the ability of the rock body to resist external loads. (2) The peak stresses of the specimens with different degrees of damage increased linearly with increasing confining pressure, and the presence of confining pressure restricted the deformation of the rock body and enhanced the ability of the specimens to resist external loads. (3) Under cyclic loading and unloading, the first cycle generated the largest residual stress variable. When the confining pressures were 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 MPa, the levels of plastic deformation of Grade I cyclic loading and unloading specimens (the amounts of total deformation and peak strain of specimens under different numbers of loading and unloading cycles) were 4.19, 4.30, 4.75, 5.11 and 5.43%, respectively. An increase in the confining pressure enhanced the deformation and failure resistance characteristics of the specimens. (4) Compared with those under conventional triaxial loading, specimens under cyclic loading and unloading failed faster after reaching the ultimate volumetric strain, and specimens damaged by blasting were more likely to fail. During deep coal mining, the bearing capacity and deformation resistance of rock masses damaged by blasting after repeated disturbance loads were greatly reduced. Therefore, the safety and stability of the surrounding rock should be strictly monitored when applying blasting pressure relief technology to avoid safety accidents., Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

To investigate the propagation mechanisms of stress waves and the characteristics of crack distribution in tunnel structures subjected to explosive effects, an experimental model simulating rock mass using cement mortar was employed. Blasting experiments were conducted at various vertical locations relative to the tunnel. Utilizing ultra-dynamic strain monitoring alongside high-speed digital image recognition, we captured in real time the dynamic evolution of stress waves as well as the precise initiation and expansion paths of cracks. A comprehensive analysis was performed on both stress wave propagation and damage patterns within the refuge structure. Furthermore, the reliability of our numerical simulation algorithm was validated through an examination of fluid-structure coupling algorithms. The results indicated that peak strains at monitoring points within the tunnel increased as detonation points approached it, leading to heightened structural damage. Numerical simulations demonstrated a strong correlation between observed peak strains at critical locations and corresponding damage data from our experimental model. Additionally, it was found that decreasing height between detonation points and the tunnel resulted in increased dynamic response parameters-such as overpressure, velocity, and acceleration-at monitoring sites within the tunnel, thereby exacerbating damage to key areas including vaults and footwall structures. To mitigate potential structural instability within refuges, a full-section molded concrete lining support system was implemented along with supplementary anchor (mesh) spraying in critical regions to ensure long-term operational safety., Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

To investigate the effects of high temperature and carbon fiber-bar reinforcement on the dynamic mechanical properties of concrete materials, a muffle furnace was used to treat two kinds of specimens, plain and carbon fiber-bar reinforced concrete, at high temperatures of 25, 200, 400 and 600 °C. Impact compression tests were carried out on two specimens after high-temperature exposure using a Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) test setup combined with a high-speed camera device to observe the crack extension process of the specimens. The effects of high temperature and carbon fiber-bar reinforcement on the peak stress, energy dissipation density, crack propagation and fractal dimension of the concrete were analyzed. The results showed that the corresponding peak strengths of the plain concrete specimens at 25, 200, 400, and 600 °C were 88.37, 93.21, 68.85, and 54.90 MPa, respectively, and the peak strengths after the high-temperature exposure first increased slightly and then decreased rapidly. The mean peak strengths corresponding to the carbon fiber-bar reinforced concrete specimens after high-temperature action at 25, 200, 400, and 600 °C are 1.13, 1.13, 1.21, and 1.19 times that of plain concrete, respectively, and the mean crushing energy consumption densities are 1.27, 1.31, 1.73, and 1.59 times that of plain concrete, respectively. The addition of carbon fiber-bar reinforcement significantly enhanced the impact resistance and energy dissipation of the concrete structure, and the higher the temperature was, the more significant the increase. An increase in temperature increases the number of crack extensions and width, and the high tensile strength of the carbon fiber-bar reinforcement and the synergistic effect with the concrete material reduce the degree of crack extension in the specimen. The fractal dimension of the concrete ranged from 1.92 to 2.68, that of the carbon fiber-bar reinforced concrete specimens ranged from 1.61 to 2.42, and the mean values of the corresponding fractal dimensions of the plain concrete specimens after high-temperature effects at 25, 200, 400, and 600 °C were 1.19, 1.21, 1.10, and 1.11 times those of the fiber-reinforced concrete specimens, respectively. The incorporation of carbon fiber-bar reinforcement reduces the degree of rupture and fragmentation of concrete under impact loading and improves the safety and stability of concrete structures., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

In order to investigate the effects of strain rate and water saturation on the energy dissipation and crack growth of tuff, uniaxial compression tests were carried out on dry and water saturated tuff with different strain rates using an electro-hydraulic servo press and a 50 mm diameter split Hopkinson pressure rod (SHPB) device. High-speed camera and Image J image analysis software were used to obtain the crack growth process of the specimen under impact load, and fractal dimension was introduced to quantitatively study the crack growth degree. The results show that more than 90% of the energy is stored in the specimen as elastic energy when it reaches the peak stress under static load. The average total energy of water-saturated specimens is 67.55% of that of dry specimens. The average energy dissipation density of water-saturated specimens under 0.3 MPa, 0.4 MPa and 0.5 MPa air pressure is 0.79, 0.91 and 0.92 times of that of dry specimens, respectively. Water-saturated specimens will deteriorate and thus reduce their energy storage and energy absorption effects. The reflected energy, transmitted energy, absorbed energy and incident energy are linear, logarithmic and linear functions, respectively, and the energy absorptivity and specific energy absorptivity of water-saturated specimens are lower than those of dry specimens. Due to the existence of "stefan" effect, the increase of energy dissipation density of water-saturated specimen at high strain rate is greater than that of dry specimen. The mean fractal dimension of water-saturated specimens under 0.3 MPa, 0.4 MPa and 0.5 MPa is 1.09, 1.05 and 1.16 times that of dry specimens. At the same strain rate, the number and width of cracks in water-saturated specimens are larger than that in dry specimens. Water-saturated behavior reduces the energy absorption capacity of tuff, increases the fractal dimension of crack growth, and significantly reduces the resistance of water-saturated rock to external loads., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

To increase the efficiency of deep-hole blasting driving in mine rock tunnels, an innovative pattern of wedge cutting blasting with hole-inner delay was proposed. First, the blasting mechanisms of conventional and innovative wedge cutting patterns were theoretically investigated. The results showed that the resistance from large upper rock blocks and the clamping action from the surrounding rock were the major challenges of conventional cutting methods. For the innovative cutting pattern, under the conversion of the spatial distribution and release sequence of blasting energy, the first blasting of the upper charge can strengthen the breaking of the upper rock mass and create a new free surface, which provides favorable conditions for the delayed blasting of the bottom charge. Second, finite element models of two cutting patterns were established and solved, and the simulation results visually revealed the propagation of a stress wave. Critically, the stress strength in the upper cavity increased by 66-83% under the action of the upper charge, which was conducive to the breaking of the upper rock mass and the generation of a new free surface. Therefore, the rock mass in the bottom cavity can be readily broken and discharged. Ultimately, field applications were executed in a rock tunnel. Compared with a conventional cutting pattern, the proposed innovative cutting pattern can prominently increase the cycle advance and hole utilization and greatly reduce the unit consumption of explosives and detonators. This research confirms the usability of the innovative wedge cutting pattern with hole-inner delay in deep-hole blasting driving of rock tunnels., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are promising therapies for haematological cancers. Historically, their therapeutic benefit is due to ADC targeting of lineage-restricted antigens. The C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is attractive for targeted therapy of haematological cancers, given its expression in multiple tumour types and role in cancer "homing" to bone marrow. However, CXCR4 is also expressed in haematopoietic cells and other normal tissues, raising safety challenges to the development of anti-CXCR4 ADCs for cancer treatment. Here, we designed the first anti-CXCR4 ADC with favourable therapeutic index, effective in xenografts of haematopoietic cancers resistant to standard of care and anti-CXCR4 antibodies. We screened multiple ADC configurations, by varying type of linker-payload, drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR), affinity and Fc format. The optimal ADC bears a non-cleavable linker, auristatin as payload at DAR = 4 and a low affinity antibody with effector-reduced Fc. Contrary to other drugs targeting CXCR4, anti-CXCR4 ADCs effectively eliminated cancer cells as monotherapy, while minimizing leucocytosis. The optimal ADC selectively eliminated CXCR4 + cancer cells in solid tumours, but showed limited toxicity to normal CXCR4 + tissues, sparing haematopoietic stem cells and progenitors. Our work provides proof-of-concept that through empirical ADC design, it is possible to target proteins with broad normal tissue expression.

The brightness of the artificial beacon is one critical performance parameter for adaptive optics. Here, a 40-watt level narrow-linewidth microsecond pulsed yellow laser is produced at 589 nm with a high repetition frequency of 600 Hz and a pulse duration of 120 μs. An experiment to project the pulse beam up to the sky and measure the fluorescence photon returns of the Na atoms has been held on the 1.8-meter telescope in Lijiang observatory. During the sky test, a laser guide star (LGS) spot is firstly observed with Rayleigh scattering elimination by means of a gateable pulse format. And, the central wavelength of the laser could be accurately locked to be 589.1584 nm with a linewidth of ~0.34 GHz to match that of sodium-D 2a line. Optical pumping with circularly polarized light has also been used to increase the brightness of sodium LGS. In order to maximize the return flux, sodium D 2b repumping option is done by an electro-optic modulator with the optimum D 2a -D 2b frequency offset. As a result, a bright sodium LGS with the return flux of 1610 photons/cm 2 /s is achieved, corresponding to ~47 photons/cm 2 /s/W of emitted laser power, which represents a significant improvement in terms of brightness reported ever.

Significant channel adjustments have occurred in the Jingjiang Reach of the Middle Yangtze River, because of the operation of the Three Gorges Project (TGP). The Jingjiang Reach is selected as the study area, covering the Upper Jingjiang Reach (UJR) and Lower Jingjiang Reach (LJR). The reach-scale bankfull channel dimensions in the study reach were calculated annually from 2002 to 2013 by means of a reach-averaged approach and surveyed post-flood profiles at 171 sections. We find from the calculated results that: the reach-scale bankfull widths changed slightly in the UJR and LJR, with the corresponding depths increasing by 1.6 m and 1.0 m; the channel adjustments occurred mainly with respect to bankfull depth because of the construction of large-scale bank revetment works, although there were significant bank erosion processes in local regions without the bank protection engineering. The reach-scale bankfull dimensions in the UJR and LJR generally responded to the previous five-year average fluvial erosion intensity during flood seasons, with higher correlations being obtained for the depth and cross-sectional area. It is concluded that these dynamic adjustments of the channel geometry are a direct result of recent human activities such as the TGP operation.

This paper uses data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) to study the impact of market integration on residents' health. The empirical results based on the probit model show that market integration has a significant dampening effect on resident incidence. For every one-unit increase in the degree of market integration, the probability of residents becoming sick decreases by approximately 1.45%. Moreover, after a series of robustness tests, the conclusion is still valid. This study further analyses the potential mechanism and finds that the promotion of market integration can improve the medical conditions available to residents, optimize the nutritional indices of residents, and reduce labor load of residents, thus improving their health. The results of the heterogeneity test show that there are certain differences in the impact of market integration on the health level of residents of different genders, ages and income classes. At the same time, this study also verifies that there is a synergistic effect between internet penetration and market integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earth's proton aurora occurs over a broad MLT region and is produced by the precipitation of low-energy (2-10 keV) plasmasheet protons. Proton precipitation can alter chemical compositions of the atmosphere, linking solar activity with global climate variability. Previous studies proposed that electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves can resonate with protons, producing proton scattering precipitation. A long-outstanding question still remains whether there is another mechanism responsible for the proton aurora. Here, by performing satellite data analysis and diffusion equation calculations, we show that fast magnetosonic waves can produce trapped proton scattering that yields proton aurora. This provides a new insight into the mechanism of proton aurora. Furthermore, a ray-tracing study demonstrates that magnetosonic wave propagates over a broad MLT region, consistent with the global distribution of proton aurora.

Earth's cusp proton aurora occurs near the prenoon and is primarily produced by the precipitation of solar energetic (2-10 keV) protons. Cusp auroral precipitation provides a direct source of energy for the high-latitude dayside upper atmosphere, contributing to chemical composition change and global climate variability. Previous studies have indicated that magnetic reconnection allows solar energetic protons to cross the magnetopause and enter the cusp region, producing cusp auroral precipitation. However, energetic protons are easily trapped in the cusp region due to a minimum magnetic field existing there. Hence, the mechanism of cusp proton aurora has remained a significant challenge for tens of years. Based on the satellite data and calculations of diffusion equation, we demonstrate that EMIC waves can yield the trapped proton scattering that causes cusp proton aurora. This moves forward a step toward identifying the generation mechanism of cusp proton aurora.

This paper investigates the fixed-time prescribed performance control problem for a class of axis-motion servo systems subject to the external disturbances and parameter uncertainties. To eliminate the requirement for velocity measurements in the control process, an auxiliary observer is first designed to reconstruct the velocity signal of the controlled plant. Subsequently, an error transformation procedure incorporating a prescribed performance index is integrated into the control system architecture. To overcome the limitations of periodic control design, a robust event-triggered controller is developed, ensuring that the dynamic error of the closed-loop system exhibits fixed-time convergence. Through rigorous theoretical analysis and proofs, it is demonstrated that the proposed event-triggered strategy guarantees Zeno-behavior-free operation. Finally, simulation results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of large reservoirs has modified the process of water and sediment transport downstream, resulting in changes in the morphology of the river cross-section. Changes in water and sand transport and cross-sectional morphology are reflected in the rating curve at the cross-section. This study analyzed the variations in the rating curve at the Huayuankou (HYK) section and their influencing factors, and conducted water level predictions based on this relationship. The findings revealed that while the annual mean water level has shown a declining tendency over the past 20 years, the annual mean discharge has shown a constant pattern. The rating curve at this stretch narrowed from a rope-loop type curve in its natural condition to a more stable single curve as a result of the construction of the dam upstream of the HYK section. The effect of pre-flood section morphology and the water–sediment process on the scattering degree of the rating curve is inverse; increasing roughness and hydraulic radius decreases scattering degree, while increasing sand content and sand transport rate increases scattering degree. Using the measured data from 2020 as an example, the feasibility of predicting cross-sectional water levels using the rating curve was verified. The prediction results were accurate when the flow was between 1000 and 2800 m3/s; However, when the flow was between 2800 and 4000 m3/s, the forecast results were typically slightly lower than the measured values. Overall, the method demonstrates good predictive accuracy. Insight from the method can be used to predict water levels to better inform decision making about water resources management, and flood emergency response in the lower Yellow River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut bacterial communities have a profound influence on the health of humans and animals. Early-life gut microbial community structure influences the development of immunological competence and susceptibility to disease. For the Thoroughbred racehorse, the significance of early-life microbial colonisation events on subsequent health and athletic performance is unknown. Here we present data from a three-year cohort study of horses bred for racing designed to explore interactions between early-life gut bacterial community structure, health events in later life and athletic performance on the racetrack. Our data show that gut bacterial community structure in the first months of life predicts the risk of specific diseases and athletic performance up to three years old. Foals with lower faecal bacterial diversity at one month old had a significantly increased risk of respiratory disease in later life which was also associated with higher relative abundance of faecal Pseudomonadaceae. Surprisingly, athletic performance up to three years old, measured by three different metrics, was positively associated with higher faecal bacterial diversity at one month old and with the relative abundance of specific bacterial families. We also present data on the impact of antibiotic exposure of foals during the first month of life. This resulted in significantly lower faecal bacterial diversity at 28 days old, a significantly increased risk of respiratory disease in later life and a significant reduction in average prize money earnings, a proxy for athletic performance. Our study reveals associations between early-life bacterial community profiles and health events in later life and it provides evidence of the detrimental impact of antimicrobial treatment in the first month of life on health and performance outcomes in later life. For the first time, this study demonstrates a relationship between early-life gut bacterial communities and subsequent athletic performance that has implications for athletes of all species including humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind farms (OWFs) play a crucial role in producing renewable energy in modern electrical power systems. However, to ensure that these facilities operate smoothly, they require robust control systems. As a result, this paper employed the newly developed Walrus Optimization algorithm (WaOA) to optimize the design parameters of fractional-order proportional-integral-derivative (FOPID) controllers in the power electronic interface circuits of the studied wind energy conversion system (WECS). In contrast to conventional optimization techniques like GA and PSO, the suggested approach proves more effective. The paper validates the WaOA application in optimizing FOPID controllers within a WECS comprising two, onshore and offshore, VSC stations at the two ends of an HVDC transmission system connecting OWFs to the mainland. The study shows that the WaOA outperforms GA and PSO, improving system stability and enabling quick recovery after disturbances. The study carried out using MATLAB/Simulink highlights the significance of newly recently introduced optimization techniques to ensure efficient and reliable operation of offshore wind energy systems, thereby expediting the transition to sustainable energy sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landslide dams, as a particular type of secondary geological disaster, can cause serious flood disasters. Therefore, accurately predicting potential dam failure processes is crucial for developing reasonable emergency response plans. Currently, several landslide dam failure models have been proposed, but most of these models do not appropriately consider the wide gradation of landslide dam materials, which is essential for accurate erosion calculations. Therefore, this research proposes a relative exposure formula under three-dimensional conditions to account for the concealment and exposure effects between large and small particles in wide-graded soil. Based on this, the incipient velocity of wide-graded soil is derived, and a mathematical model of overtopping failure of landslide dams is established. As part of the model, a numerical solution process is also developed to ensure convergence. To evaluate the performance of this new mathematical model, the discharge process of Tangjiashan landslide dam was used as a real-world case for dam failure calculation. The calculated results of key dam failure outcomes were compared with actual measurements, showing that the results of this model are largely consistent with actual measurements, with the error controlled within 10%. Additionally, the mathematical model proposed in this article was compared with two other existing dam failure models, revealing that the model proposed here has advantages in controlling the error of key dam failure outcomes, mainly due to the comprehensive consideration of erosion calculation in wide-graded soil. To further evaluate the stability of the model, the breach processes of the "11.3" Baige landslide dam and the Yigong landslide dam were also calculated, and the results showed reasonable consistency. Based on the model presented in this article, the influence of the grading width of landslide dam materials on key dam failure outcomes was discussed. It was found that grading width significantly affects the development process of breach flow. Specifically, wider grading width leads to smaller peak values of breach flow and later peak times. Additionally, the final size of the breach is affected by grading width, as it has a significant impact on erosion strength, although the sensitivity of this parameter is relatively weak. Given the significant impact of grading width on the dam failure process, especially for landslide dams containing wide-graded soil, it is essential to fully consider the wide grading of materials for accurate dam failure calculations., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

In the process of drilling and blasting construction of large-cross-section tunnels, the layout of wedge-shaped cutting holes has a great influence on the effect of blasting. In this study, theoretical analysis and numerical simulation were used to assess the effect of different forms of cutting hole placement on blasting effectiveness. First, the fissure-inducing angle was proposed, a three-dimensional model of wedge-shaped cutting considering the effect of shear-tensile resistance was established, and theoretical analyses of cutting holes with different cutting angles and fissure-inducing angles were carried out. Second, the parameters of the Riedel–Hiermaier–Thoma model were determined based on the experimental data, and verified. Third, three-dimensional numerical models were established, and analyze the influence of different forms of hole deployment on the blasting effect from the perspective of stress wave propagation and dynamic damage to the surrounding rock. Finally, based on the theoretical analysis and numerical simulation results, the wedge-shaped hollowing holes were re-designed, and 20 tunnel blasting tests were carried out using this deployment method for large-section tunnel blasting, which verified the feasibility of this deployment method. The results of the study show that for level III surrounding rock, the angle of wedge-shaped cutting holes should meet 68° ≤ θ ≤ 70° and 70° ≤ β ≤ 72°. This study provides a kind of refined and efficient blasting for the drilling and blasting excavation process of large section tunnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have highlighted the potential contribution of gender diversity to creativity, also noted challenges stemming from conflicts and a deficit of trust. Thus, we argue that gender diversity requires inclusion as well to see increased collective creativity. We analyzed teams in 4011 video game projects, recording weighted network data from past collaborations. We developed four measures of inclusion, based on de-segregation, strong ties across genders, and the incorporation of women into the core of the team's network. We measured creativity by the distinctiveness of game features compared to prior games. Our results show that gender diversity without inclusion does not contribute to creativity, while at maximal inclusion one standard deviation change in diversity results in.04–.09 standard deviation increase in creativity. On the flipside, at maximal inclusion but low diversity (when there is a 'token' female team member highly integrated in a male network) we see a negative impact on creativity. Considering the history of game projects in a developer firm, we see that adding diversity first, and developing inclusion later can lead to higher diversity and inclusion, compared to the alternative of recruiting developers with already existing cross-gender ties. This suggests that developer firms should encourage building inclusive collaboration ties in-house. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the malignant tumors with high mortality, the initial symptoms of liver cancer are not obvious. In addition, the liver is the largest internal organ of the human body, and its structure and distribution are relatively complex. Therefore, in order to help doctors judge liver cancer more accurately, this paper proposes a variant model based on Unet network. Before segmentation, the image is preprocessed, and Pulse Coupled Neural Network (PCNN) algorithm is used to filter the image adaptively to make the image clearer. For the segmentation model, the SE module is used as the input of the residual network, and then its output is connected to the Unet model through bilinear interpolation to perform the down-sampling and up-sampling operations. The dataset is a combination of Hainan Provincial People's Hospital and some public datasets Lits. The results show that this method has better segmentation performance and accuracy than the original Unet method, and the dice coefficient, mIou and other evaluation indicators have increased by at least 2.1%, which is a method that can be applied to cancer segmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dosage-dependent recruitment of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) at the promoters of genes related to neurodevelopment and stem cell maintenance is required for transcription by the fine-tuned expression of SET-domain-containing protein 5 (SETD5). Pol II O-GlcNAcylation by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) is critical for preinitiation complex formation and transcription cycling. SETD5 dysregulation has been linked to stem cell-like properties in some cancer types; however, the role of SETD5 in cancer cell stemness has not yet been determined. We here show that aberrant SETD5 overexpression induces stemness in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. SETD5 overexpression causes the upregulation of PI3K-AKT pathway-related genes and cancer stem cell (CSC) markers such as CD133, Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), and estrogen-related receptor beta (ESRRB), leading to the gain of stem cell-like phenotypes. Our findings also revealed a functional relationship between SETD5, OGT, and Pol II. OGT-catalyzed Pol II glycosylation depends on SETD5, and the SETD5-Pol II interaction weakens in OGT-depleted cells, suggesting a SETD5-OGT-Pol II interdependence. SETD5 deficiency reduces Pol II occupancy at PI3K-AKT pathway-related genes and CD133 promoters, suggesting a role for SETD5-mediated Pol II recruitment in gene regulation. Moreover, the SETD5 depletion nullified the SETD5-induced stemness of CRC cells and Pol II O-GlcNAcylation. These findings support the hypothesis that SETD5 mediates OGT-catalyzed O-GlcNAcylation of RNA Pol II, which is involved in cancer cell stemness gain via CSC marker gene upregulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm fiber (DPF) is normally used as fiber material in concrete. Though its addition to concrete leads to decline in durability and mechanical strengths performance. Additionally, due to its high ligno-cellulose content and organic nature, when used in concrete for high temperature application, the DPF can easily degrade causing reduction in strength and increase in weight loss. To reduce these effects, the DPF is treated using alkaline solutions. Furthermore, pozzolanic materials are normally added to the DPF composites to reduce the effects of the ligno-cellulose content. Therefore, in this study silica fume was used as supplementary cementitious material in DPF reinforced concrete (DPFRC) to reduce the negative effects of elevated temperature. Hence this study aimed at predicting the residual strengths of DPFRC enhanced/improved with silica fume subjected to elevated temperature using different models such as artificial neural network (ANN), multi-variable regression analysis (MRA) and Weibull distribution. The DPFRC is produced by adding DPF in proportions of 0%, 1%, 2% and 3% by mass. Silica fume was used as partial substitute to cement in dosages of 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% by volume. The DPFRC was then subjected to elevated temperatures between 200 and 800 °C. The weight loss, residual compressive strength and relative strengths were measured. The residual compressive strength and relative strength of the DPFRC declined with addition of DPF at any temperature. Silica fume enhanced the residual and relative strengths of the DPFRC when heated to a temperature up to 400 °C. To forecast residual compressive strength (RCS) and relative strength (RS), we provide two distinct ANN models. The first layer's inputs include DPF (%), silica fume (%), temperature (°C), and weight loss (%). The hidden layer is thought to have ten neurons. M-I is the scenario in which we use RCS as an output, whereas M-II is the scenario in which we use RS as an output. The ANN models were trained using the Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation algorithm (LMBA). Both neural networking models exhibit a significant correlation between the predicted and actual values, as seen by their respective R = 0.99462 and R = 0.98917. The constructed neural models M-I and M-II are highly accurate at predicting RCS and RS values. MRA and Weibull distribution were used for prediction of the strengths of the DPFRC under high temperature. The developed MRA was found to have a good prediction accuracy. The residual compressive strength and relative strength followed the two-parameter Weibull distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The loss of hypocretin is thought to be the main pathophysiological mechanism of narcolepsy. There is strong evidence that hypocretin is related to the regulation of endocrine functions and depression. To explore thyroid hormone levels in narcolepsy patients was our aim. In addition, further is to analyze the relationship between thyroid hormone levels and sleep quality, anxiety, and depression in narcolepsy patients. There are 40 patients with narcolepsy and 40 healthy controls (HCs) were conducted. Blood samples were explored for thyroid function. Correlation analysis between thyroid hormones and clinical characteristics of narcolepsy was performed using Pearson or Spearman. Narcolepsy patients had significantly lower free thyroxine (FT4) levels in comparison to controls (p < 0.001). No subject was diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism. There were 4 (10%) subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism. The serum FT4 levels were positively correlated with HAMA14 score (r = − 0.343, p = 0.030) by Pearson correlation analysis. The serum TSH levels and HAMD24 score (r = − 0.807 p ˂0.001), and ESS score (r = − 0.317, p = 0.046) both showed a negative correction. Hypocretin deficiency may be associated with the regulation of thyroid hormones in narcolepsy patients. The serum thyroid hormones may affect the severity and neuropsychological functions of narcolepsy patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influences of high in-situ stress generally need to be considered when excavating deep underground caverns. The dynamic fracture behaviors of rocks under blast loads were investigated by using the rock-anchored beam excavation in underground powerhouses of Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station in Sichuan Province, China as the engineering background. To solve the problems of the poor blasting breakage effect of rocks and the difficulty in protecting surrounding rocks during excavation, mechanical properties of granite under static and dynamic loads were investigated and the sequential controlled fracture blasting (SCFB) method was adopted during in-situ tests. Based on the Riedel-Hiermaier-Thoma constitutive model and the strength criterion, software LS-DYNA was employed to simulate the dynamic propagation of blasting-induced cracks. The contour shaping effect obtained via numerical simulation is generally consistent with the test results. The results show that SCFB can to some extent control the direction of crack initiation and rock fracture behavior of the blasthole wall cracks and the spacing of successive bursting holes is about 10 times the diameter of the blastholes when the cracks between the blastholes are shaped the best effect. Moreover, the magnitude and direction of principal in-situ stress can both affect the propagation path and length of blasting-induced cracks. The results of the research on the excavation and construction of deeply buried underground caverns have a certain reference value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia ulmoides (EU) and its diverse extracts have demonstrated antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties against hepatic ischemia–reperfusion injury (HIRI). However, the primary constituents of EU and their putative mechanisms remain elusive. This study aims to explore the potential mechanisms of EU in the prevention and treatment of HIRI by employing network pharmacology and molecular docking methodologies. The main components and corresponding protein targets of EU were searched in the literature and TCMSP, and the compound target network was constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.1. Liver ischemia–reperfusion injury targets were searched in OMIM and GeneCards databases. The intersection points of compound targets and disease targets were obtained, and the overlapping targets were imported into the STRING database to construct the PPI network. We further analyzed the targets for GO and KEGG enrichment. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed on the core targets and active compounds. The component-target network unveiled a total of 26 efficacious bioactive compounds corresponding to 207 target proteins. Notably, the top-ranking compounds based on degree centrality were quercetin, β-sitosterol, and gallic acid. Within the PPI network, the highest degree centrality encompassed RELA, AKT1, TP53. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis elucidated that EU in HIRI primarily engaged in positive regulation of gene expression, positive transcriptional regulation via RNA polymerase II promoter, negative modulation of apoptotic processes, positive regulation of transcription from DNA templates, and drug responsiveness, among other biological processes. Key pathways included cancer pathways, RAGE signaling pathway, lipid metabolism, atherosclerosis, TNF signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and apoptotic pathways. Molecular docking analysis revealed robust affinities between quercetin, β-sitosterol, gallic acid, and RELA, AKT1, TP53, respectively. This study reveals EU exhibits substantial potential in mitigating and treating HIRI through multifaceted targeting and involvement in intricate signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ionosphere, Earth's space environment, exhibits widespread turbulent structuring, or plasma irregularities, visualized by the auroral displays seen in Earth's polar regions. Such plasma irregularities have been studied for decades, but plasma turbulence remains an elusive phenomenon. We combine scale-dependent measurements from a ground-based radar with satellite observations to characterize small-scale irregularities simultaneously in the bottomside and topside ionosphere and perform a statistical analysis on an aggregate from both instruments over time. We demonstrate the clear mapping of information vertically along the ionospheric altitude column, for field-perpendicular wavelengths down to 1.5 km. Our results paint a picture of the northern hemisphere high-latitude ionosphere as a turbulent system that is in a constant state of growth and decay; energy is being constantly injected and dissipated as the system is continuously attempting an accelerated return to equilibrium. We connect the widespread irregularity dissipation to Pedersen conductance in the E-region, and discuss the similarities between irregularities found in the polar cap and in the auroral region in that context. We find that the effects of a conducting E-region on certain turbulent properties (small-scale spectral index) is near ubiquitous in the dataset, and so we suggest that the electrodynamics of a conducting E-region must be considered when discussing plasma turbulence at high latitudes. This intimate relationship opens up the possibility that E-region conductivity is associated with the generation of F-region irregularities, though further studies are needed to assess that possibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rescuing patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), especially those with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), is challenging. This study hypothesizes that OHCA patients with ESKD undergoing maintenance hemodialysis have (1) higher rates of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and (2) lower rates of hyperkalemia and less severe acidosis than those without ESKD. OHCA patients who received CPR between 2011 and 2020 were dichotomized into ESKD and non-ESKD groups. The association of ESKD with "any" and "sustained" ROSC were examined using logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, the effect of ESKD on hospital outcomes for OHCA patients who survived to admission was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. ESKD patients without "any" ROSC displayed lower potassium and higher pH levels than non-ESKD patients. ESKD was positively associated with "any" ROSC (adjusted-OR: 4.82, 95% CI 2.70–5.16, P < 0.01) and "sustained" ROSC (adjusted-OR: 9.45, 95% CI 3.83–24.13, P < 0.01). Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated ESKD patients had a non-inferior hospital survival than non-ESKD patients. OHCA patients with ESKD had lower serum potassium level and less severe acidosis compared to the general population in Taiwan; therefore, should not be treated under the stereotypical assumption that hyperkalemia and acidosis always occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the efficiency of government-funded research and development (R&D) programs for small and medium enterprises, it is necessary to make the process of selecting beneficiary firm objective. We aimed to develop machine learning models to predict the performances of individual R&D projects in advance, and to present an objective method that can be utilized in the project selection. We trained our models on data from 1771 R&D projects conducted in South Korea between 2011 and 2015. The models predict the likelihood of R&D success, commercialization, and patent applications within 5 years of project completion. Key factors for predicting the performances include the research period and area, the ratio of subsidy to research budget, the firm's region and venture certification, and the average debt ratio of the industry. Our models' precisions were superior to qualitative expert evaluation, and the machine learning rules could be explained theoretically. We presented a methodology for objectively scoring new R&D projects based on their propensity scores of achieving the performances and balancing them with expert evaluation scores. Our methodology is expected to contribute to improving the efficiency of R&D investment by supplementing qualitative expert evaluation and selecting projects with a high probability of success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving an efficient and reliable method is essential to interpret a user's brain wave and deliver an accurate response in biomedical signal processing. However, EEG patterns exhibit high variability across time and uncertainty due to noise and it is a significant problem to be addressed in mental task as motor imagery. Therefore, fuzzy components may help to enable a higher tolerance to noisy conditions. With the advent of Deep Learning and its considerable contributions to Artificial intelligence and data analysis, numerous efforts have been made to evaluate and analyze brain signals. In this study, to make use of neural activity phenomena, the feature extraction preprocessing is applied based on Multi-scale filter bank CSP. In the following, the hybrid series architecture named EEG-CLFCNet is proposed which extract the frequency and spatial features by Compact-CNN and the temporal features by the LSTM network. However, the classification results are evaluated by merging the fully connected network and fuzzy neural block. Here, the proposed method is further validated by the BCI competition IV-2a dataset and compare with two hyperparameter tuning methods, Coordinate-descent and Bayesian optimization algorithm. The proposed architecture that used fuzzy neural block and Bayesian optimization as tuning approach, results in better classification accuracy compared with the state-of-the-art literatures. As results shown, the remarkable performance of the proposed model, EEG-CLFCNet, and the general integration of fuzzy units to other classifiers would pave the way for enhanced MI-based BCI systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous epidemiologic studies debated the association of body mass index (BMI) trends with cardiovascular disease and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the association of BMI variability and slope with the incidence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a sex-stratified 15.8-year follow-up in the population-based Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Of 10,911 individuals aged 20–60 years, 4981 subjects were included and followed for 15.8-years. The slope coefficient of BMI in the linear regression model represented individuals' BMI trends up to the incidence of DM. The root mean squared error (RMSE) of the BMI linear trend was selected to reflect BMI variability through six follow-ups. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to investigate the association of the baseline BMI, BMI slope and RMSE with the incidence of T2DM among men and women. Multivariable-adjusted HRs of T2DM for each SD increment in BMI slope was 1.18 (95% CI: 0.94–1.48, p = 0.161) in normal weight men and 1.26 (95% CI: 1.10–1.44, p = 0.001) in overweight and obese men. However, in women, each SD increment in BMI slope increased the risk of T2DM with a HR of 1.19 (95% CI: 1.01–1.40, p = 0.039) in normal weight, and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.08–1.19, p < 0.001) in women with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. In men with a baseline BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, BMI-RMSE was associated with a decreased risk of T2DM (HR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.53–0.93, p = 0.015). Baseline BMI was not associated with the risk of diabetes in men and women. Positive BMI slope is associated with the development of diabetes in both sexes. The association of BMI variability with incident T2DM differs according to sex and baseline BMI. BMI variability is associated with a lower risk of T2DM in overweight and obese men. BMI variability in women and baseline BMI in both gender are not related to the risk of T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, a directional reduction charging structure was proposed to solve the problems caused by drilling and blasting method such as serious damage to surrounding rocks, working face low contour flatness and serious over-under break of root base c. Drilling and blasting tests, numerical calculations and field applications were designed and performed for the verification of the blasting advantages of charge structure. Test results showed that the peak positive strain along the protection direction of directional protection shaped charge was significantly smaller than that of ordinary charge, where PVC material presented the strongest effect such that the peak positive strain of specimen 1 at measuring point 4 (protection direction) was only 0.27 times that at measuring point 9 (non-protected direction). Numerical simulations indicated shaped jet formation, damage-reduction and charge penetration process and obtained the force law of cement target plate. Experimental results revealed that application of charge in tunnel controlled blasting achieved a clear controlling effect on contour line excavation. Compared with ordinary smooth blasting method, all technical indicators of the developed method were improved such that half hole mark rate was increased by about 33% and the amount of over-under break was decreased by about two times. Research results are of certain significance for the stability of surrounding reserved rocks and formation of roadway in blasting engineering and the developed method was found to be applicable to mining, shaft excavation and other projects., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

In this paper, a novel robust distributed consensus control scheme based on event-triggered adaptive sliding mode control is proposed for multiagent systems with unknown disturbances in a leader-follower framework. First, an adaptive multivariate disturbance observer is utilized to compensate for the disturbance of each agent. Next, a distributed consensus control protocol is constructed via integral sliding mode control, in which a novel adaptive law is designed for the switching gain to overcome the unknown perturbations. An event-triggered strategy is designed to update the control input. Furthermore, the feasibility of the proposed scheme is rigorously analyzed by Lyapunov theory, and a lower bound expression for the inter-event time is derived to guarantee that Zeno behavior can be excluded. The proposed nonlinear consensus algorithm is remarkable in that it does not require any information about the bounds of the disturbances. Finally, compared with existing methods, the proposed algorithm is validated through detailed numerical simulations. In addition, the proposed algorithm is applied to a group of UAVs in this paper, and the results show that it has more application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, we identified weight-change patterns during midlife using a group-based trajectory model, and evaluated their associations with the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). At baseline, there were 8774 CVD-free participants. Group-based modeling was used to analyze patterns of weight change over about 16 years. Using multiple model, we evaluated the association between weight-change patterns and CVD risk. During the follow-up period, 741 new CVD cases were identified. The weight-change patterns were characterized as 'gradual weight gain', 'stable weight', 'slight weight loss', and 'gradual weight loss'. The association between weight-change patterns and CVD risk differed depending on the level of physical activity (PA) at baseline (pinteraction < 0.05). Compared with the stable-weight group, the risk of all CVD (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5–4.3) and non-fatal CVD (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.6–4.9) among the gradual-weight-loss group was apparent in the lowest PA quartile. In addition, on average, a decrease in skeletal-muscle-mass (SMM) levels was observed during the follow-up period, but the decrease in SMM in the gradual-weight-loss group was greater than in the gradual-weight-gain group. Our findings show that gradual weight loss was associated with CVD risk, which was dependent on PA levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the stability characteristics of high rock slope under rainfall via theoretical research, numerical simulation, and field monitoring is of great implications for safety construction in open-pit mine engineering. Thus, based on the Hoke-Brown criterion, instantaneous internal friction angle and cohesion of high-slope rock mass under high stress conditions were deduced, and a nonlinear strength reduction method for high rock slope was established. The safety factors of the open-pit mine were calculated by COMSOL Multiphysics, which considering the high rock southwest slope and detected rainfall in Dagushan Open-pit Mine, China. The results showed that high rock slope stability could be more accurately analyzed by the proposed method due to its full consideration of slope stress state effect compared with the equivalent Mohr- Coulomb method. When the slope is low, the difference between the calculation results of the equivalent Mohr- Coulomb method and the proposed method is small, but with the increase of the slope height, the difference between the two calculation results gradually increases. When the transient saturated is formed in the slope surface layer and gradually increases, the reduction rate of the factor of safety (FOS) gradually increases. When the total rainfall is the same, the effect of short-term heavy rainfall on slope stability is less than that of long-term ordinary rainfall. The results obtained form this work provided important insights into the stability of high rock slope and rainfall infiltration in open-pit mine, and the safety factor is crucial for guiding the mining process design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metamaterial absorber (MMA) is now attracting significant interest due to its attractive applications, such as thermal detection, sound absorption, detection for explosive, military radar, wavelength detector, underwater sound absorption, and various sensor applications that are the vital part of the internet of things. This article proposes a modified square split ring resonator MMA for Ku-band sensing application, where the metamaterial structure is designed on FR-4 substrate material with a dielectric constant of 4.3 and loss tangent of 0.025. Perfect absorption is realized at 14.62 GHz and 16.30 GHz frequency bands, where peak absorption is about 99.99% for both frequency bands. The proposed structure shows 70% of the average absorption bandwidth of 420 MHz (14.42–14.84 GHz) and 480 MHz (16.06–16.54 GHz). The metamaterial property of the proposed structure is investigated for transverse electromagnetic mode (TEM) and achieved negative permittivity, permeability, and refractive index property for each absorption frequency band at 0°, 45°, and 90° polarization angles. Interference theory is also investigated to verify the absorption properties. Moreover, the permittivity sensor application is investigated to verify the sensor performance of the proposed structure. Finally, a comparison with recent works is performed, which shows that the proposed MMA can be a good candidate for Ku-band perfect absorber and sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the coal and gas outburst accidents occur frequently caused by blasting in geological structural belt, in order to study the mechanical characteristics of coal rock in tectonic belt disturbance by blasting and blasting vibration effect influenced on the stability of surrounding rock, coal–rock damage and failure characteristics within a reverse fault caused by a blasting stress wave were investigated using numerical analyses and experiments. According to the experimental results, the causes of coal and gas outburst dynamic disasters within a reverse fault during blasting are analyzed. The outcomes indicated that the crushing circle created by the crack propagation near the blasting hole severely damaged the fault plane and floor rocks adjacent to the footwall of the reverse fault. Fractures also extended to the upper and lower coal seams of the reverse fault; this caused the surface of the coal seam to fall off and severe internal damage. According to theoretical analysis, the reflection of the blasting stress wave propagating to the reverse fault intensified the damage to coal and rock. Elastic strain energy accumulation within the reverse fault structural zone was accompanied by high-stress concentration. The reverse fault tectonic region was destroyed by blasting vibration. It increased gas pressure and caused a weak surface, which provided a channel for gas flow and a dynamic basis for the occurrence of coal and gas outburst. The research results have important theoretical value to reveal the mechanism of coal and gas outburst in tectonic belt induced by blasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The practical implementation of supercapacitors is hindered by low utilization and poor structural stability of electrode materials. Herein, to surmount these critical challenges, a three-dimensional hierarchical α-Co(OH)2/α-Ni(OH)2 heterojunction nanorods are built in situ on Ni foam through a mild two-step growth reaction. The unique lamellar crystal structure and abundant intercalated anions of α-M(OH)2 (M = Co or Ni) and the ideal electronic conductivity of α-Co(OH)2 construct numerous cross-linked ion and electron transport paths in heterojunction nanorods. The deformation stresses exerted by α-Co(OH)2 and α-Ni(OH)2 on each other guarantee the excellent structural stability of this heterojunction nanorods. Using nickel foam with a three-dimensional network conductive framework as the template ensures the rapidly transfer of electrons between this heterojunction nanorods and current collector. Three-dimensional hierarchical structure of α-Co(OH)2/α-Ni(OH)2 heterojunction nanorods provides a large liquid interface area. These result together in the high utilization rate and excellent structure stability of the α-Co(OH)2/α-Ni(OH)2 heterojunction nanorods. And the capacitance retention rate is up to 93.4% at 1 A g−1 from three-electrode system to two-electrode system. The α-Co(OH)2/α-Ni(OH)2//AC device also present a long cycle life (the capacitance retention rate is 123.6% at 5 A g−1 for 10000 cycles), a high specific capacitance (207.2 F g−1 at 1 A g−1), and high energy density and power density (72.6 Wh kg−1 at 196.4 W kg−1 and 40.9 Wh kg−1 at 3491.8 W kg−1), exhibiting a fascinating potential for supercapacitor in large-scale applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yarn supercapacitors have attracted renewed interest as promising energy storage for wearable devices due to their lightweight, long cycling lifetime and excellent weavability. There has been much effort to fabricate high performance yarn supercapacitor by depositing pseudo-capacitive materials on the outer surface of the carbon fibers. However, a key challenge still remains to achieve high capacitance and high mass loading without sacrificing the cycling stability. Herein, we perform a phase-controlled of MnO2 at various deposition temperatures with ultrahigh mass loading of 11 mg/cm2 on a MWNT sheets and fabricate it to yarn structure to achieve high capacitance without decreasing in the electrochemical performance. The structure of optimized sample (MnO2/CNTs-60, deposition at 60 °C) consists of the composite of primary α-MnO2 nanosheets and secondary γ-MnO2 nanoparticles. The heteronanostructures of MnO2 provide facile ionic and electric transport in the yarn electrode, resulting in improvement of electrochemical performance and cycling stability. The MnO2/CNTs-60 yarn electrode with ultrahigh mass loading delivers a high areal capacitance of 3.54 F/cm2 at 1 mA/cm2 and an excellent rate capability. Finally, the MnO2/CNTs-60 device exhibits an outstanding high areal energy density of 93.8 μWh/cm2 at the power density of 193 μW/cm2, which is superior to previously reported symmetric yarn supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black Phosphorus (BP) is an excellent material from the post graphene era due to its layer dependent band gap, high mobility and high Ion/Ioff. However, its poor stability in ambient poses a great challenge for its practical and long-term usage. The optical visualization of the oxidized BP is the key and the foremost step for its successful passivation from the ambience. Here, we have conducted a systematic study of the oxidation of the BP and developed a technique to optically identify the oxidation of the BP using Liquid Crystal (LC). It is interesting to note that we found that the rapid oxidation of the thin layers of the BP makes them disappear and can be envisaged by using the alignment of the LC. The molecular dynamics simulations also proved the preferential alignment of the LC on the oxidized BP. We believe that this simple technique will be effective in passivation efforts of the BP, and will enable it for exploitation of its properties in the field of electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion-controlled switchable progress is very important in many biological behaviors. Here, we reported K+-controlled switch, this switch system exhibited excellent carbaryl (G) binding/release by fluorescent (FL), ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectrums and 1H NMR spectroscopy. More importantly, the K+-controlled G binding/release switch based on C4C5 not only in the solution, but also on the surface, promising for the application for the pesticide controlled release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]