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Buckwheat and other grains have become influential in sustainable agriculture and food security owing to climate change. However, subpar storage conditions can result in the deterioration of the nutritional value and active components of buckwheat, making storage quality a significant research subject. This study examined common buckwheat (CB) and Tartary buckwheat (TB) stored at 4 °C, 30 °C, and 55 °C from 0 to 6 months to assess storage quality and its relationship to the preservation of active components. The results of agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that as storage temperature and time increased, both CB and TB exhibited the following differences: significant alterations in color due to an increase in browning index (B.I.), higher acidity from accelerated acid production at high temperatures, and a decrease in total phenolics, flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity due to thermal degradation of functional components. In the storage quality assessment, no alteration in microstructure or degradation in components was detected after exposure to all times and temperatures, and the content of the primary bioactive compound, rutin, was CB (16.57–27.81 mg/100 g d.w.) and TB (707.70–787.58 mg/100 g d.w.), demonstrating buckwheat's resistance to microbial contamination. Storage temperature significantly impacts buckwheat's quality and bioactive components, making it an important element in establishing a sustainable food supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface engineering techniques can be used to develop high-performance gas sensing materials and advance the development of sensors. In this study, we improved the gas sensing performance of two-dimensional (2D) WO3 nanoplates by combining surface Zn modification and the in situ formation of ZnWO4/WO3 heterojunctions. Introducing Zn atoms by surface modification can reconstruct the atomic surface of 2D WO3 nanoplates, creating additional active sites. This allowed for the preparation of various types of ZnWO4/WO3 heterojunctions on the surface of the WO3 nanoplates, which improved the selectivity and sensitivity to the target gas triethylamine. The sensor exhibited good gas sensing performance for triethylamine even at low operating temperatures and strongly resisted humidity changes. The ZnWO4/WO3 material we prepared demonstrated a nearly threefold improvement in the triethylamine (TEA) response, with a gas sensing responsivity of 40.75 for 10 ppm of TEA at 250 °C. The sensor based on ZnWO4/WO3 has a limit of detection (LOD) for TEA of 200 ppb in practical measurements (its theoretical LOD is even as low as 31 ppb). The method of growing ZnWO4 on the surface of WO3 nanoplates using surface modification techniques to form surface heterojunctions differs from ordinary composites. The results suggest that the in situ construction of surface heterojunctions using surface engineering strategies, such as in situ modifying, is a practical approach to enhance the gas sensing properties and resistance to the humidity changes of metal oxide materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulk logistics is an important part of the modern logistics system. The degree of digital transformation of bulk logistics has a significant gap compared with other logistics forms. Combined with the successful experience of digital transformation, value co-creation may become one of the key strategies to solve the problem of digital transformation of bulk logistics. This study formulates a four-party evolutionary game model to analyze the strategic choices and the stability of strategy combinations in value co-creation activities among bulk logistics enterprises and related entities and conducts numerical simulation analysis to explore the factors affecting the outcomes of the proposed game. The numerical results demonstrate that the bulk logistics enterprises and government departments are the key players in the game form that drive the success of value co-creation activities, and the additional costs required by various enterprises and the policies and financial support from government departments are key factors affecting strategic choices. Our findings can serve as a reference for bulk logistics enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of ecological agriculture and organic products, there is an urgent need to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides by producing bio-nursery substrates containing multifunctional microbial communities. In this study, beneficial Pseudomonas strains were screened from the rhizosphere of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) pre-inoculated with Bacillus velezensis R1-3. The ability of the strain to dissolve phosphorus and produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), the effect of the strain on seed germination rate, and the antagonism with R1-3 were determined. Four strains of beneficial Pseudomonas strains that had no antagonistic effect against R1-3 were obtained and formed a Bacillus–Pseudomonas community. The seedling effect of biological substrates containing the Bacillus–Pseudomonas community was evaluated using a seedling pot experiment and a pot experiment. The results showed that the phosphorus solubilization range of all Pseudomonas strains was 86.32–459.48 mg L−1 and the IAA production range was 2.98–11.86 mg L−1. There was a significant negative correlation between the amount of phosphorus dissolved in the fermentation solution and pH. Combined with the results of the seed germination rate and antagonism test, the strains R1-3 + HY-S7, R1-3 + HY-S25, R1-3 + HY-S36, and R1-3 + HY-S70 were selected for the seedling pot experiment and the pot experiment. The results of the two-season seedling culture and two-season pot experiments showed that the bio-nursery substrates containing the bacterial community R1-3 + HY-S70 significantly promoted the growth of muskmelon seedlings, improved plant height, maximum leaf length, and fresh weight, and were significantly better than single bacterial and control treatments at increasing plant height and fresh weight. Finally, the bacterial community R1-3 + HY-S70 was established as the optimal combination for developing biological seedling substrates. Based on 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis, the strain HY-S70 was preliminarily identified as Pseudomonas moraviensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea plants are a perennial crop with significant economic value. Chlorophyll, a key factor in tea leaf color and photosynthetic efficiency, is affected by the photoperiod and usually exhibits diurnal and seasonal variations. In this study, high-throughput transcriptomic analysis was used to study the chlorophyll metabolism, under different photoperiods, of tea plants. We conducted a time-series sampling under a skeleton photoperiod (6L6D) and continuous light conditions (24 L), measuring the chlorophyll and carotenoid content at a photoperiod interval of 3 h (24 h). Transcriptome sequencing was performed at six time points across two light cycles, followed by bioinformatics analysis to identify and annotate the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in chlorophyll metabolism. The results revealed distinct expression patterns of key genes in the chlorophyll biosynthetic pathway. The expression levels of CHLE (magnesium-protoporphyrin IX monomethyl ester cyclase gene), CHLP (geranylgeranyl reductase gene), CLH (chlorophyllase gene), and POR (cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase gene), encoding enzymes in chlorophyll synthesis, were increased under continuous light conditions (24 L). At 6L6D, the expression levels of CHLP1.1, POR1.1, and POR1.2 showed an oscillating trend. The expression levels of CHLP1.2 and CLH1.1 showed the same trend, they both decreased under light treatment and increased under dark treatment. Our findings provide potential insights into the molecular basis of how photoperiods regulate chlorophyll metabolism in tea plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we discovered the mechanisms underlying parecoxib and resveratrol combination's anti-cancer characteristics against human colorectal cancer DLD-1 cells. We studied its anti-proliferation and apoptosis-provoking effect by utilizing cell viability 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, fluorescence microscope, gene overexpression, Western blot, and flow cytometry analyses. Parecoxib enhanced the ability of resveratrol to inhibit cell viability and increase apoptosis. Parecoxib in combination with resveratrol strongly enhanced apoptosis by inhibiting the expression of thioredoxin domain containing 5 (TXNDC5) and Akt phosphorylation. Parecoxib enhanced resveratrol-provoked c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 phosphorylation. Overexpression of TXNDC5 and repression of JNK and p38 pathways significantly reversed the inhibition of cell viability and stimulation of apoptosis by the parecoxib/resveratrol combination. This study presents evidence that parecoxib enhances the anti-cancer power of resveratrol in DLD-1 colorectal cancer cells via the inhibition of TXNDC5 and Akt signaling and enhancement of JNK/p38 MAPK pathways. Parecoxib may be provided as an efficient drug to sensitize colorectal cancer by resveratrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of efficient and environmentally friendly photocatalysts is crucial for addressing global energy and environmental challenges. Perylene diimide, an organic supramolecular material, holds great potential for applications in mineralized phenol. In this study, through the integration of different mass ratios of unmodified perylenimide (PDI-NH) into the self-assembly of amino acid-substituted perylenimide (PDI-COOH), a novel supramolecular organic heterojunction (PDICOOH/PDINH) was fabricated. The ensuing investigation focuses on its visible-light mineralized phenol properties. The results show that the optimal performance is observed with a composite mass fraction of 10%, leading to complete mineralization of 5 mg/L phenol within 5 h. The reaction exhibits one-stage kinetics with rate constants 13.80 and 1.30 times higher than those of PDI-NH and PDI-COOH, respectively. SEM and TEM reveal a heterogeneous interface between PDI-NH and PDI-COOH. Photoelectrochemical and Kelvin probe characterization confirm the generation of a built-in electric field at the interface, which is 1.73 times stronger than that of PDI-COOH. The introduction of PDI-NH promotes π-π stacking of PDI-COOH, while the built-in electric field facilitates efficient charge transfer at the interface, thereby enhancing phenol decomposition. The finding demonstrates that supramolecular heterojunctions have great potential as highly effective photocatalysts for environmental remediation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topology optimization focuses on the conceptual design of structures, characterized by a large optimization space and a significant impact on structural performance, and has been widely applied in industrial fields such as aviation and aerospace. However, most topology optimization methods prioritize structural stiffness and often overlook stress levels, which are critical factors in engineering design. In recent years, explicit topology optimization methods have been extensively developed due to their ability to produce clear boundaries and their compatibility with CAD/CAE systems. Nevertheless, research on incorporating stress constraints within the explicit topology optimization framework remains scarce. This paper is dedicated to investigating stress constraints within the explicit topology optimization framework. Due to the clear boundaries and absence of intermediate density elements in the explicit topology optimization framework, this approach avoids the challenge of stress calculation for intermediate density elements encountered in the traditional density method. This provides a natural advantage in solving topology optimization problems considering stress constraints, resulting in more accurate stress calculations. Compared with existing approaches, this paper proposes a novel component topology description function that enhances the deformability of components, improving the representation of geometric boundaries. The lower-bound Kreisselmeier–Steinhauser aggregation function is employed to manage the stress constraint, reducing the solution scale and computational burden. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through two classic examples of topology optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of the semiconductor chip and precision machining industry, there is a growing demand for high-performance planar drive devices, leading to an increasing depth of research on planar motors. Variable reluctance planar motors, induction planar motors, permanent-magnet synchronous planar motors and DC planar motors are discussed in this paper along with their working principles and current research status. The theory of planar motors remains incomplete and immature despite the extensive research conducted by scholars and research institutions on crucial aspects like magnetic field analysis and electromagnetic force calculations. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the research and development status of planar motors in order to positively impact future advancements in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important class of nitrogen-containing fused heterocyclic compounds, imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines often exhibit significant biological activities, such as analgesic, anticancer, antiosteoporosis, anxiolytic, etc. Using Y(OTf)3 as a Lewis acid catalyst, a simple and efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of C3-alkylated imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines through the three-component aza-Friedel–Crafts reaction of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines, aldehydes, and amines in the normal air atmosphere without the protection of inert gas and special requirements for anhydrous and anaerobic conditions. A series of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives were obtained with moderate to good yields, and their structures were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS. Furthermore, this conversion has the advantages of simple operation, excellent functional group tolerance, high atomic economy, broad substrate scope, and can achieve gram-level reactions. Notably, this methodology may be conveniently applied to the further design and rapid synthesis of potential biologically active imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines with multifunctional groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ball bearings operating at low speeds and under heavy loads are susceptible to wear failure, leading to significant economic losses. The existing reliability-based robust design optimization method of the fourth-moment method has high accuracy and does not need to determine the random distribution of the input variables, but it is not possible to apply it to ball bearing wear due to the complexity of the bearing wear state function that cannot be characterized as an explicit form. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel design method for ball bearing wear. Firstly, a surrogate model is constructed using the Kriging model method to establish a relationship between the bearing design parameters and the mechanical response. Subsequently, a wear reliability model is developed on the basis of the fourth-moment method, and reliability sensitivity analysis is conducted. Finally, the ball bearing wear reliability-based robust design optimization is accomplished through the use of a genetic algorithm. The results of the case calculations demonstrate that the proposed method effectively calculates the ball bearing wear reliability and analyzes the impact of design parameter randomness on reliability. Furthermore, optimizing the design parameters reduces the sensitivity of wear reliability to parameter randomness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CdS quantum dots (CdS QDs) are regarded as a promising photocatalyst due to their remarkable response to visible light and suitable placement of conduction bands and valence bands. However, the problem of photocorrosion severely restricts their application. Herein, the CdS QDs-Co9S8 hollow nanotube composite photocatalyst has been successfully prepared by loading Co9S8 nanotubes onto CdS QDs through an electrostatic self-assembly method. The experimental results show that the introduction of Co9S8 cocatalyst can form a stable structure with CdS QDs, and can effectively avoid the photocorrosion of CdS QDs. Compared with blank CdS QDs, the CdS QDs-Co9S8 composite exhibits obviously better photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. In particular, CdS QDs loaded with 30% Co9S8 (CdS QDs-30%Co9S8) demonstrate the best photocatalytic performance, and the H2 production rate reaches 9642.7 μmol·g−1·h−1, which is 60.3 times that of the blank CdS QDs. A series of characterizations confirm that the growth of CdS QDs on Co9S8 nanotubes effectively facilitates the separation and migration of photogenerated carriers, thereby improving the photocatalytic hydrogen production properties of the composite. We expect that this work will facilitate the rational design of CdS-based photocatalysts, thereby enabling the development of more low-cost, high-efficiency and high-stability composites for photocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large underground spaces are complex and huge, with problems such as fragmented data that cannot be shared, outdated management methods, and high operation and maintenance costs. The digitization of building information and the use of digital twin technology can effectively improve the efficiency of building operation and maintenance. Using information technology to build a digital-twin-based operation and maintenance management system, the huge and discrete data and equipment system information are effectively integrated and explored for application. First, we analyze the shortcomings of the traditional delivery and operation and maintenance methods and introduce the necessity of a new method of operation and maintenance management based on digital twin; then, we divide the operation and maintenance information of the construction project into four major categories of spatial information and eight major categories of equipment information and complete the coding work, and the categorized data serve as the data basis for operation and maintenance; second, we develop a digital twin operation and maintenance management platform based on the operation and maintenance data of BIM; finally, we carry out case validation for the three major constructions. Finally, case validation is carried out for three major buildings and a large underground space and the practical application shows that the operation and maintenance management system based on digital twin technology provides technical guarantee for decentralized information and system integration management and the information management quality and efficiency of the operation and maintenance process are effectively improved. Through the practice of summarizing the experience, which is worth learning, we aim to create a large underground space operation and maintenance management method to provide a reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is a soil amendment that has the potential to effectively improve soil salinization. However, there is a paucity of studies on sodium adsorption using biochar, and the adsorption mechanism remains unclear. To better understand the adsorption mechanism of Na+ on the surface of biochar, both pyrochar and hydrochar were produced at different temperatures. The capacity and influencing factors of Na+ adsorption in biochar were analyzed via batch adsorption experiments. Pore filling dominated the Na+ adsorption in the concentration of the NaCl solution when it was ≤100 mg/L, where wheat straw pyrochar (WB, 3.95–4.94 mg/g Na) and poplar wood chip pyrochar (PB, 0.62–0.70 mg/g Na) presented the release and adsorption of Na+, respectively. When the concentration of the NaCl solution was >100 mg/L, the adsorption capacity of WB (25.44–36.45 mg/g) was significantly higher than PB (4.46–6.23 mg/g). Both the adsorption and release of Na+ in hydrochar was insufficient. In a high concentration of NaCl solution, ion exchange became the key mechanism determining the adsorption of Na+ in pyrochar, in which K+ contributed to more than 94% of the Na+ adsorption. The findings proposed strategies for the structural design of biochar used for Na adsorption. These will promote the utilization of solid biowaste for sodium adsorption and the potential of soil salinization amendment for agriculture in arid lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the wear resistance of artillery barrels in harsh environments, TaC and Ta/TaC coatings were prepared on 30CrNi2MoVA steel using double-glow plasma surface metallurgy technology. These coatings, of which their surfaces consisted of almost pure TaC phases, showed defect-free interfaces with the substrate. The Ta/TaC coating demonstrated excellent integration, forming a nearly homogeneous structure. The coatings exhibited a gradient cross-sectional hardness, affecting a depth of approximately 20 μm. The Ta transition layer significantly enhanced the microhardness and adhesive strength of the TaC coating, with about 16.7% and 68.5% increases in the Ta/TaC coating, respectively. Both coatings markedly improved the wear resistance, showing slight wear at room temperature and minor oxidative wear at high temperatures. The Ta/TaC coating had more stable friction coefficient curves and a lower specific wear rate, with an 11.4% wear rate of the substrate at 500 °C. Thermal mismatch and stress concentration under wear loads caused extensive cracks and edge chipping in the TaC coating. In contrast, the good compatibility between the Ta transition layer and the TaC layer allowed for cooperative deformation with the substrate, creating a plastic deformation zone that reduced internal stresses and stress concentration, maintaining the intact structure. This study provides insights into applying Ta/TaC coatings for artillery barrel protection and broadens the possible application scenarios of the preparation technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulsating heat pipes (PHPs) are widely used in the heat dissipation of electronic components, waste heat recovery, solar energy utilization, etc., relying on the pulsating flow of the work material in the pipe and the heat transfer by phase change, and they have the advantages of high heat-transfer efficiency, simple structure, and low cost. In this paper, an experimental method is used to adjust the length of local pipes in the PHP structure, so that the PHP forms a high- and low-staggered asymmetric structure, and to study the effects of different liquid charging rates and heat-source temperatures on the vibration, startup, and operation of the PHP in the asymmetric structure. We found the following: it is difficult to start up and operate the workpiece at 10%, 68%, and 80% liquid charging rates; the effect of the oscillating impact is worse; the temperature difference between the evaporation section of the pulsating heat pipe and condensation section is larger; and the temperature difference between the evaporation section and condensation section is larger. The temperature difference between the evaporation section and condensation section of the pulsating heat pipe is large, the temperature difference is between 10~25 °C, and it is difficult to achieve a small temperature difference in heat transfer. When the liquid charging rate is 30% and 50%, the pulsating heat pipe oscillates better; the pulsation frequency is relatively high; and the temperature difference between the end of the cold and hot sections is small, the temperature difference is between 3 and 7 °C, and the performance of heat transfer is better. However, when the liquid charging rate is 30% and the heat source is 70 °C, the thermal resistance is increased to 0.016 K/W, and the equivalent thermal conductivity is reduced. When the performance of heat transfer is changed to 0.016 K/W and the equivalent thermal conductivity is reduced, the coefficient decreases, and the heat-transfer performance becomes weaker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to elucidate the overpressure and fire hazard effects of gas explosion in a congested room, the effects of gas concentration and room layout on a gas explosion in a kitchen were studied by CFD. The results showed that the flow field parameters in a kitchen exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease as the gas concentration increased. The maximum gas flow rate recorded within the chamber was 390 m/s, while the corresponding maximum flame propagation rate and peak pressure reached 289.86 m/s and 30.95 kPa, respectively. The difference in the flow field induced by the concentration was further enhanced by the presence of congested materials. Additionally, the room layout influenced the gas congestion's blowout effect due to variations in turbulence intensity and flammable gas volume caused by significant changes in the congestion within the room. Specifically, when the gas concentration was 10%, the order of indoor gas flow rate and flame combustion rate were II > U > L > I, while the turbulent kinetic energy and explosive overpressure followed the order I > II > L > U. The results are of great significance for the disaster assessment and accident prevention of natural gas explosion in civil kitchens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Improving the reproductive performance of boars is a major goal in pig-breeding programmes. Semen traits are significantly associated with the reproductive performance of boars, and thus, identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the genes affecting semen traits are important. Genome-wide association study have been widely used to detect significant SNPs associated with economically important traits in pigs. The results of our study can be used in genomic selection models to facilitate future breeding programs aimed at improving reproductive traits in boars. Artificial insemination plays a crucial role in pig production, particularly in enhancing the genetic potential of elite boars. To accelerate genetic progress for semen traits in pigs, it is vital to understand and identify the underlying genetic markers associated with desirable traits. Herein, we genotyped 1238 Landrace boars with GeneSeek Porcine SNP50 K Bead chip and conducted genome-wide association studies to identify genetic regions and candidate genes associated with 12 semen traits. Our study identified 38 SNPs associated with the analyzed 12 semen traits. Furthermore, we identified several promising candidate genes, including HIBADH, DLG1, MED1, APAF1, MGST3, MTG2, and ZP4. These candidate genes have the potential function to facilitate the breeding of boars with improved semen traits. By further investigating and understanding the roles of these genes, we can develop more effective breeding strategies that contribute to the overall enhancement of pig production. The results of our study provide valuable insights for the pig-breeding industry and support ongoing research efforts to optimize genetic selection for superior semen traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castanopsis chinensis (Spreng.) Hance is widespread in the subtropical forests of China. Castanopsis qiongbeiensis G.A. Fu and Castanopsis glabrifolia J. Q. Li & Li Chen are limited to the coastal beaches of Wenchang county in the northeast of Hainan Island, and have similar morphological characteristics to C. chinensis. It is supposed that C. qiongbeiensis and C. glabrifolia are closely related to C. chinensis. In the present study, the genetic differentiation, gene flow, and genetic relationship of C. chinensis, C. qiongbeiensis, and C. glabrifolia were investigated by using 15 nuclear microsatellite markers; a total of 308 individuals from 17 populations were sampled in the three species. The allelic variation of nuclear microsatellites revealed moderate but significant genetic differentiation (FCT = 0.076) among C. chinensis, C. qiongbeiensis, and C. glabrifolia, and genetic differentiation between C. chinensis and C. glabrifolia was larger than that between C. chinensis and C. qiongbeiensis. Demographic simulations revealed unidirectional gene flow from C. chinensis to C. glabrifolia and C. qiongbeiensis, which highlight dispersal from mainland to island. The isolation effect of Qiongzhou Strait increased the genetic differentiation of species on both sides of the strait; however, the differentiation was diminished by gene flow that occurred during the historical period when Hainan Island was connected to mainland China. Our results supported the argument that C. glabrifolia should be considered an independent species and argued that C. qiongbeiensis should be regarded as an incipient species and independent conservation unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharides from Dendrobium officinale have garnered attention for their diverse and well-documented biological activities. In this study, we isolated three ethanol-fractionated polysaccharides from Dendrobium officinale (EPDO) and investigated their digestive properties and effects on gut microbiota regulation in vitro. The results indicated that after simulating digestion in saliva, gastric, and small intestinal fluids, three EPDOs, EPDO-40, EPDO-60 and EPDO-80, with molecular weights (Mw) of 442.6, 268.3 and 50.8 kDa, respectively, could reach the large intestine with a retention rate exceeding 95%. During in vitro fermentation, the EPDOs were broken down in a "melting" manner, resulting in a decrease in their Mw. EPDO-60 degraded more rapidly than EPDO-40, likely due to its moderate Mw. After 24 h, the total production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) for EPDO-60 reached 51.2 ± 1.9 mmol/L, which was higher than that of EPDO-80. Additionally, there was an increase in the relative abundance of Bacteroides, which are capable of metabolizing polysaccharides. EPDO-60 also promoted the growth of specific microbiota, including Prevotella 9 and Parabacteroides, which could potentially benefit from these polysaccharides. Most notably, by comparing the gut microbiota produced by different fermentation carbon sources, we identified the eight most differential gut microbiota specialized in polysaccharide metabolism at the genus level. Functional prediction of these eight differential genera suggested roles in controlling replication and repair, regulating metabolism, and managing genetic information transmission. This provides a new reference for elucidating the specific mechanisms by which EPDOs influence the human body. These findings offer new evidence to explain how EPDOs differ in their digestive properties and contribute to the establishment of a healthy gut microbiota environment in the human body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell death involving oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction is a major cause of dopaminergic neuronal loss in the substantia nigra (SN) of Parkinson's disease patients. Ergothioneine (ET), a natural dietary compound, has been shown to have cytoprotective functions, but neuroprotective actions against PD have not been well established. 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) is a widely used neurotoxin to simulate the degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in Parkinson's disease. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of ET on 6-OHDA treated iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons (iDAs) and further confirmed the protective effects in 6-OHDA-treated human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. In 6-OHDA-treated cells, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mROS), reduced cellular ATP levels, and increased total protein carbonylation levels were observed. 6-OHDA treatment also significantly decreased tyrosine hydroxylase levels. These effects were significantly decreased when ET was present. Verapamil hydrochloride (VHCL), a non-specific inhibitor of the ET transporter OCTN1 abrogated ET's cytoprotective effects, indicative of an intracellular action. These results suggest that ET could be a potential therapeutic for Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial mineralization of calcium–magnesium carbonate has been a hot research topic in the fields of geomicrobiology and engineering geology in the past decades. However, the formation and phase transition mechanism of calcium–magnesium carbonate polymorphs at different Mg/Ca ratios still need to be explored. In this study, microbial induced carbonate mineralization experiments were carried out for 50 days in culture medium with Mg/Ca molar ratios of 0, 1.5, and 3 under the action of Curvibacter sp. HJ-1. The roles of bacteria and the Mg/Ca ratio on the mineral formation and phase transition were investigated. Experimental results show that (1) strain HJ-1 could induce vaterite, aragonite, and magnesium calcite formation in culture media with different Mg/Ca molar ratios. The increased stability of the metastable phase suggests that bacterial extracellular secretions and Mg2+ ions inhibit the carbonate phase-transition process. (2) The morphology of bacteriological carbonate minerals and the formation mechanism of spherical minerals were different in Mg-free and Mg-containing media. (3) The increased Mg/Ca ratio in the culture medium has an influence on the formation and transformation of calcium–magnesium carbonate by controlling the metabolism of Curvibacter sp. HJ-1 and the activity of bacterial secretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium plating can cause capacity fade and thermal runaway safety issues in lithium-ion batteries. Therefore, accurately detecting the amount of lithium plating on the surface of the battery's negative electrode is crucial for battery safety. This is especially crucial in high-energy-density applications such as battery energy storage systems or in electric vehicles (EVs). Early detection of lithium plating is crucial for evaluation of reliability and longevity. It also serves as a method for early diagnostics in practical industrial applications or infrastructure, such as EV transportation. This can enhance its impact on customers. This study validates the effectiveness of titration gas chromatography (TGC) technology in quantitatively detecting lithium plating on graphite negative electrodes in lithium-ion batteries. The results show that it can detect a minimum of 2.4 μmol of metallic lithium. Compared with the heating direct current resistance and reference electrode methods, which can be used to perform only qualitative dendrite detection, TGC has a wider range of detection. Compared with the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method with higher quantitative detection accuracy, the maximum difference between the detection results of the two methods was only 7.2%, but the TGC method had lower cost and higher implementation convenience. In summary, among various dendrite detection methods, the TGC method can not only realize the effective quantitative detection of lithium plating, but also comprehensively consider its detection range, implementation convenience, cost, and detection accuracy, indicating that it is suitable for engineering applications and has the prospect of realizing large-scale quantitative detection of lithium plating in lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a hyperspectral imaging simulation method based on a ray-tracing algorithm. The algorithm combines calculations based on solar and atmospheric visible light radiation as well as the spectral bidirectional reflection distribution function (BRDF) of the target surface material and can create its own scenarios for simulation calculations on demand. Considering the presence of multiple scattering between the target and background, using the ray-tracing algorithm enables the precise computation of results involving multiple scattering. To validate the accuracy of the algorithm, we compared the simulated results with the theoretical values of the visible light scattering intensity from a Lambertian sphere. The relative error obtained was 0.8%. Subsequently, a complex scene of engineering vehicles and grass was established. The results of different observation angles and different coating materials were calculated and analyzed. In summary, the algorithm presented in this paper has the following advantages. Firstly, it is applicable to geometric models composed of any triangular mesh elements and accurately computes the effects of multiple scattering. Secondly, the algorithm combines the spectral BRDF information of materials and improves the efficiency of multiple scattering calculations using nonuniform sampling. The computed hyperspectral scattering data can be applied to simulate airborne or space-borne remote sensing data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oranges contain many natural active chemicals, organic acids, and polysaccharides. Aging processing is commonly used to modify the color, quality, functional components, and stability of fruits. This study assesses the preparation of aging black oranges using various pre-treatments and solid fermentation. Oranges were aged for six weeks in fresh, non-blanching, blanching, and hot air-assisted aging cycle (AA) groups. The oranges' shrinkage ratio, color difference values, and soluble solids content changed significantly (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis indicated that aging fermentation treatment accelerated glycolysis and increased the ratio of reducing sugars. The enhanced browning can be associated with the oxidation of ascorbic acid (0.66–0.47 mg/g) and the formation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) (0.09 mg/g). Furthermore, the presence of free polyphenols led to an increase in the total polyphenol and total flavonoid content. It also had a synergistic effect with 5-HMF in increasing the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical-scavenging capacity and ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power (p < 0.05). AA had superior α-glucosidase inhibitory ability increasing from 67.31 to 80.48%. It also reduced the development time by 33%. Therefore, aging technology can enhance the bioactive compounds in oranges and provide a reference for future whole-fruit aging fermentation and health product creation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In underground filling mining, freshly prepared cemented gangue-fly ash backfill (CGFB) slurries are typically piped into the gobs. The rheological properties of backfill slurry during pipeline transportation have a direct impact on the transportation characteristics, which in turn affect pipeline blockage and wear. In this paper, the rheological behavior and viscoelastic-plastic properties of CGFB during pipeline transportation are investigated. The effects of different solid content and cement content on resistivity were tested experimentally, and their viscoelasticity and plasticity were analyzed. The results show that with the increase in solid phase content and cement content, the viscosity, yield stress, and energy storage modulus of the materials showed an increasing trend. The viscosity and yield stress of the material both increased, reaching 32.77% and 51.22%, respectively. It was found by the dynamic shear test that in the low-strain region, the material showed a more significant elastic nature of the solid, while in the high-strain region, the viscosity of the material gradually increased. Cement has a substantially lower resistivity than fly ash and gangue, and with the increase in solid concentration, the resistivity of the material shows an increasing trend. With the increase in cement content, the resistivity generally shows a decreasing trend, but it should be noted that the resistivity change trend may tend to stabilize after the cement content exceeds 12%. The study's findings can aid in understanding the rheological properties of CGFB and its viscoelastic-plastic behavior during the underground filling and conveying process, which can provide a reference basis for research and application in related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cylinder linear induction motor (CLIM) is a variation of the rotary induction motor. Its structure is simple, it has a low manufacturing cost, and it can generate linear thrust without the need for a conversion mechanism. It is particularly suitable for electromagnetic catapults, magnetic levitation transport, and industrial production fields, due to its strong environmental adaptability. Designing a high-thrust and high-efficiency CLIM is a great challenge due to its inherent drawbacks, such as the low thrust density and power density of induction motors. In this article, two CLIMs with different topologies are proposed to meet the demand for control-rod drives in high-temperature and high-pressure environments. The article elucidates the topologies of the two CLIMs and proposes an analytical computational approach for the CLIM. Modern optimization algorithms were utilized to optimize the design of the structural parameters of both CLIMs. A 3D-FEA simulation was used to compare and analyze the air-gap magnetism and thrust characteristics of two CLIMs. The results indicate that the copper-ring secondary CLIM has a higher thrust density and is more suitable for use in control-rod drive mechanism (CRDM) systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new-type stainless steel–concrete–carbon steel double-skin tubular (SCCDST) members, characterized by their exceptional corrosion resistance and mechanical bearing capacity, have promising applications in ocean engineering, particularly in deep-water engineering. The external hydraulic pressure and interfacial action of various materials intensify the complexity of composite performance of SCCDST members. This paper describes an analytical investigation on the concentric compressive performance of SCCDST members under external hydraulic pressure. The full-range mechanism, including load–displacement response, bearing capacity contribution, and contact pressures, was investigated through the finite element (FE) model that was validated by the failure mode, bearing capacity, and response of axial load versus strain. Subsequently, influences of key geometric–physical parameters were analyzed, e.g., diameter-to-thickness ratios (Do/to, Di/ti), material strengths (fyo, fyi, and fc), hollow ratios (χ), and water depths (H). Typical results indicate that: the initial active confinement action derived from the hydraulic pressure can enhance the interfacial contact pressure and axial compression capacity of SCCDST members due to the tri-axial compression state; the enhancement of confinement effect is mainly from the interfacial interaction between outer stainless steel tube and concrete infill; influence of water depth on bearing capacity cannot be ignored, e.g., the bearing capacity of an SCCDST member with larger hollow ratio (χ = 0.849) is not enhanced under a higher hydraulic pressure (H = 900 m) because of the cross-sectional buckling failure risk. Finally, a modified method considering the effect of water depth was proposed and verified for SCCDST members under hydraulic pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) model of the alternating current (AC) arc is complex, so a simplified equivalent heat source (EHS) model can be used to replace the complex model in studying the AC arc's thermal characteristics and cable fire risk. A 2D axisymmetric AC arc MHD simulation model in the short gap of a copper-core cable is established in this paper. The AC arc voltage and current obtained by the model are consistent with experiments. The AC arc's heat source distribution obtained by the MHD model is fitted to obtain the heat source function Q of the AC arc. Q is divided into 16 independent segmented heat sources, and a correction matrix is constructed to optimize the segmented heat sources. A neural network and a genetic algorithm give the prediction model and the optimal correction matrix of the segmented heat source. The EHS model optimized by the optimal correction matrix can obtain a minimum temperature error of 5.8/4.4/4.2% with the MHD model in different AC arc peak currents 2/4/6 A. The probability of a cable fire is calculated by using AC arc's optimized EHS model when different numbers of AC arcs are generated randomly in AC half-waves. The EHS model can replace the complex MHD model to study the thermal characteristics of AC arcs and quickly calculate the probability of a cable fire caused by random AC arcs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E-textiles have emerged as a fast-growing area in wearable technology for sports and fitness due to the soft and comfortable nature of textile materials and the capability for smart functionality to be integrated into familiar sports clothing. This review paper presents the roles of wearable technologies in sport and fitness in monitoring movement and biosignals used to assess performance, reduce injury risk, and motivate training/exercise. The drivers of research in e-textiles are discussed after reviewing existing non-textile and textile-based commercial wearable products. Different sensing components/materials (e.g., inertial measurement units, electrodes for biosignals, piezoresistive sensors), manufacturing processes, and their applications in sports and fitness published in the literature were reviewed and discussed. Finally, the paper presents the current challenges of e-textiles to achieve practical applications at scale and future perspectives in e-textiles research and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on designing and optimizing Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs) using hybrid rare earth and ferrite materials. Two distinctive rotor topologies of the Hybrid-Type Permanent Magnet Motor (HTPMM) are proposed: series and parallel magnetic circuits. Initially, the rotor topology and magnetic circuit principles of both the prototype and the designed HTPMM are introduced. Subsequently, a multi-objective genetic algorithm is employed to optimize the two HTPMMs, determining the final optimized parameters. Thise study further analyzes the cost advantage of HTPMMs from the perspective of permanent magnet materials, and detailed finite element analysis is conducted to evaluate the electromagnetic performance, including the air-gap flux density, no-load back electromotive force, cogging torque, load torque characteristics, and demagnetization properties. A comparative analysis of the prototype and two designed motors reveals that the HTPMM exhibits similar performance to the prototype, effectively reducing the usage of rare earth materials and significantly lowering the manufacturing costs. This research validates the feasibility of reducing rare earth material usage while maintaining a similar performance and provides a new perspective for the design of permanent magnet motors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is a major cause of cancer deaths since it is first undetectable in its early stages. Narrow-band imaging (NBI) detects EC more accurately, sensitively, and specifically than white light imaging (WLI), according to many studies. This work uses a color space connected to décor to change WLIs into NBIs, improving early EC identification. The YOLOv5 algorithm was utilized to train WLI and NBI images separately, demonstrating the versatility of sophisticated object identification approaches in medical image analysis. Based on the confusion matrix and the trained model's precision, recall, specificity, accuracy, and F1-score, the model's performance was assessed. The model was trained to reliably identify dysplasia, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and polyps, demonstrating a detailed and focused examination of EC pathology for a better understanding. Dysplasia cancer, a pre-cancerous stage that may increase five-year survival, was detected with higher recall and accuracy by the NBI model. Although the NBI and WLI models recognized the polyp identically, the SCC category lowered its accuracy and recall rate. The NBI model had an accuracy of 0.60, 0.81, and 0.66 in dysplasia, SCC, and polyp categories, and recall rates of 0.40, 0.73, and 0.76. In dysplasia, SCC, and polyp categories, the WLI model was 0.56, 0.99, and 0.65 accurate. Additionally, it had recall rates of 0.39, 0.86, and 0.78 in the same categories. The NBI model performs poorly due to a small collection of training pictures. Increasing the dataset can improve performance. Esophageal carcinoma (EC) is a prominent contributor to cancer-related mortality since it lacks discernible features in its first phases. Multiple studies have shown that narrow-band imaging (NBI) has superior accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in detecting EC compared to white light imaging (WLI). Thus, this study innovatively employs a color space linked to décor to transform WLIs into NBIs, offering a novel approach to enhance the detection capabilities of EC in its early stages. In this study a total of 3415 WLI along with the corresponding 3415 simulated NBI images were used for analysis combined with the YOLOv5 algorithm to train the WLI images and the NBI images individually showcasing the adaptability of advanced object detection techniques in the context of medical image analysis. The evaluation of the model's performance was based on the produced confusion matrix and five key metrics: precision, recall, specificity, accuracy, and F1-score of the trained model. The model underwent training to accurately identify three specific manifestations of EC, namely dysplasia, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and polyps demonstrates a nuanced and targeted analysis, addressing diverse aspects of EC pathology for a more comprehensive understanding. The NBI model effectively enhanced both its recall and accuracy rates in detecting dysplasia cancer, a pre-cancerous stage that might improve the overall five-year survival rate. Conversely, the SCC category decreased its accuracy and recall rate, although the NBI and WLI models performed similarly in recognizing the polyp. The NBI model demonstrated an accuracy of 0.60, 0.81, and 0.66 in the dysplasia, SCC, and polyp categories, respectively. Additionally, it attained a recall rate of 0.40, 0.73, and 0.76 in the same categories. The WLI model demonstrated an accuracy of 0.56, 0.99, and 0.65 in the dysplasia, SCC, and polyp categories, respectively. Additionally, it obtained a recall rate of 0.39, 0.86, and 0.78 in the same categories, respectively. The limited number of training photos is the reason for the suboptimal performance of the NBI model which can be improved by increasing the dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis is a 3D spinal deformity commonly characterized by serial radiographs. Patients with AIS may have increased average radiation exposure compared to unaffected patients and thus may be implicated with a modest increase in cancer risk. To minimize lifetime radiation exposure, alternative imaging modalities such as surface topography are being explored. Surface topography (ST) uses a camera to map anatomic landmarks of the spine and contours of the back to create software-generated spine models. ST has previously shown good correlation to radiographic measures. In this study, we sought to use ST in the creation of a risk stratification model. A total of 38 patients met the inclusion criteria for curve progression prediction. Scoliotic curves were classified as progressing, stabilized, or improving, and a predictive model was created using the proportional odds logistic modeling. The results showed that surface topography was able to moderately appraise scoliosis curvatures when compared to radiographs. The predictive model, using demographic and surface topography measurements, was able to account for 86.9% of the variability in the future Cobb angle. Additionally, attempts at classification of curve progression, stabilization, or improvement were accurately predicted 27/38 times, 71%. These results provide a basis for the creation of a clinical tool in the tracking and prediction of scoliosis progression in order to reduce the number of X-rays required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the improved Lv's distribution (ImLVD) for noisy multicomponent linear frequency-modulated (LFM) signals analysis, which is of significant importance in radar signal processing. Two goals of this paper are (i) to overcome drawbacks of the Lv's distribution (LVD), and (ii) to study mechanisms of the constant delay introduction. Theoretical comparisons in cross-term suppression, resolution, peak-to-sidelobe level, anti-noise performance and implementation are performed for the maximum likelihood (ML) method, Wigner–Hough transform (WHT), LVD, parameterized centroid frequency–chirp rate distribution (PCFCRD) and ImLVD. Based on theoretical comparisons and illustrative examples, superiorities of the ImLVD are demonstrated and several unclear mechanisms of the introduced constant delay are interpreted. Finally, three numerical examples are given to illustrate that, because of the high cross-term suppression, resolution, peak-to-sidelobe level and anti-noise performance without the non-uniform integration variable, the ImLVD is more suitable for noisy multicomponent LFM signals analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high electrons and holes recombination rate of ZnIn2S4 significantly limits its photocatalytic performance. Herein, a simple in situ photodeposition strategy is adopted to introduce the cocatalyst cobalt phosphate (Co-Pi) on ZnIn2S4, aiming at facilitating the separation of electron–hole by promoting the transfer of photogenerated holes of ZnIn2S4. The study reveals that the composite catalyst has superior photocatalytic performance than blank ZnIn2S4. In particular, ZnIn2S4 loaded with 5% Co-Pi (ZnIn2S4/5%Co-Pi) has the best photocatalytic activity, and the H2 production rate reaches 3593 μmol·g−1·h−1, approximately double that of ZnIn2S4 alone. Subsequent characterization data demonstrate that the introduction of the cocatalyst Co-Pi facilitates the transfer of ZnIn2S4 holes, thus improving the efficiency of photogenerated carrier separation. This investigation focuses on the rational utilization of high-content and rich cocatalysts on earth to design low-cost and efficient composite catalysts to achieve sustainable photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser scanning 3D imaging technology, because it can obtain accurate three-dimensional surface data, has been widely used in the search for wrecks and rescue operations, underwater resource development, and other fields. At present, the conventional underwater spinning laser scanning imaging system maintains a relatively fixed light window. However, in low-light situations underwater, the rotation of the scanning device causes some degree of water fluctuation, which warps the light strip data that the system sensor receives about the object's surface. To solve this problem, this research studies an underwater 3D scanning and imaging system that makes use of a fixed light window and a spinning laser (FWLS). A refraction error compensation algorithm is investigated that is based on the fundamentals of linear laser scanning imaging, and a dynamic refraction mathematical model is established based on the motion of the imaging device. The results of the experiment on error analysis in an optimal underwater environment indicate that the error in reconstructing the radius is decreased by 60% (from 2.5 mm to around 1 mm) when compensating for the measurement data of a standard sphere with a radius of 20 mm. Moreover, the compensated point cloud data exhibit a higher degree of correspondence with the model of the standard spherical point cloud. Furthermore, we examine the impact of physical noise, measurement distance, and partial occlusion of the object on the imaging system inside an authentic underwater setting. This study is a good starting point for looking at the refractive error of an underwater laser scanning imaging system. It also provides to us some ideas for future research on the refractive error of other scanning imaging methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depressive emotion (DE) refers to clinically relevant depressive symptoms without meeting the diagnostic criteria for depression. Studies have demonstrated that DE can cause spatial cognition impairment. However, the brain network mechanisms underlying DE interference spatial cognition remain unclear. This study aimed to reveal the differences in brain network connections between DE and healthy control (HC) groups during resting state and a spatial cognition task. The longer operation time of the DE group during spatial cognition task indicated DE interference spatial cognition. In the resting state stage, the DE group had weaker network connections in theta and alpha bands than the HC group had. Specifically, the electrodes in parietal regions were hubs of the differential networks, which are related to spatial attention. Moreover, in docking task stages, the left frontoparietal network connections in delta, beta, and gamma bands were stronger in the DE group than those of the HC group. The enhanced left frontoparietal connections in the DE group may be related to brain resource reorganization to compensate for spatial cognition decline and ensure the completion of spatial cognition tasks. Thus, these findings might provide new insights into the neural mechanisms of depressive emotion interference spatial cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The results of this work can be included in the design stage of interior permanent-magnet synchronous motors for aircraft drive applications. The torque performance of the interior permanent-magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) must be further improved to satisfy the growing demand of aircraft drive application. To this end, this article focuses on the design optimization of the IPMSM structure in the aircraft drive systems to improve the torque density and reduce the torque ripple. A special fractional-slot winding and ∇-type magnetic-pole rotor topology are proposed as the optimized IPMSM structure compared with the structure of an existing motor. The simulations of the original and optimized structures at different current values reveal the variance of the torque in the average and ripple, mechanical and external characteristics, efficiency and steady-state temperature. The performance of an optimized prototype is analyzed by experimental testing, and the results show that an optimized motor has a higher torque density and lower torque ripple than the original one at the same speed and rated power, but it also has a higher temperature rise. However, the temperature rise value is acceptable in the experimental testing condition, so the validity of the design optimization method for the proposed structure is verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing number of users in the Medium-Orbit (MEO) satellite communication system, multi-access interference (MAI) has become an important factor that restricts the reliability and capacity of the system. Additionally, the low carrier-power-to-noise-density ratio ( C / N 0 ) resulting from long-distance transmission poses a significant concern. The parallel interference cancellation (PIC) algorithm, utilized within the paradigm of multi-user detection (MUD), exhibits the capability to effectively mitigate the impact of MAI within the same system. Simultaneously, coherent accumulation serves as a means to substantially enhance the correct detection probability ( P c d ) at low C / N 0 . In this study, a signal acquisition method for multi-user spread spectrum satellite receivers is proposed, which employs interference cancellation and coherent accumulation as its core mechanisms. Furthermore, we introduce a power estimation method based on the outcomes of signal acquisition, which can be integrated into the signal reconstruction module of PIC. Finally, we implement the aforementioned algorithms in both simulation and hardware platforms. Remarkably, we observe that when the interference-to-signal ratio (ISR) caused by MAI equals 20 dB, the improved algorithm attains a maximum P c d of 0.95 within the high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) region, closely approaching the theoretical limit for the bit error rate (BER). The experimental results prove the effectiveness and feasibility of the acquisition algorithm. In summary, the enhanced algorithm holds vast potential for widespread implementation in multi-user spread spectrum communication systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inland ports are gaining more and more attention as important hubs for inland cities to promote foreign trade. However, studies on the evaluation of inland ports are lacking. In this work, we aim to construct an index system and propose a multi-criteria group decision-making method to comprehensively evaluate the development of inland ports. Unlike previous studies, using pressure–state–response model as a reference, we built up a demand–risk–power–potential framework for the index system proposed in this study. To determine the different weights for each indicator, which is a typical multi-criteria decision-making problem, we innovatively combined the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and the Bayesian best–worst method (BBWM) based on their distinct advantages in dealing with data coupling and group decision-making. In addition, this work introduces a case study of inland ports in the Huaihai Economy Zone to validate the efficacy of the proposed evaluation model and method. After calculating and obtaining the comprehensive scores and rankings of each inland port in this case, we compared the evaluation results with those under the BBWM, TOPSIS, and CRITIC methodologies, and found that the results under the DEMATEL–BBWM methodology can provide better differentiation for inland port evaluation results. Moreover, based on the evaluation results, a performance–importance matrix is formulated to identify the areas requiring attention in the development process of each inland port. Subsequently, rational managerial insights are put forward to achieve the sustainable development of inland ports in the Huaihai Economy Zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted the beverage industry. It directly causes job losses, reduced income, and changes in customer preferences, and it influences the relationship between franchisors and franchisees. COVID-19 has spread rapidly around the world in the past two years. Meanwhile, the impact has reverberated from abroad to the headquarters of companies in Taiwan. Eight Taiwanese food and beverage brands saw steep drops in sales as the pandemic grew in severity. Thus, it is important to identify the critical elements of running a franchise store. Collected with Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technology, the results show that the five key factors in franchises are going direct-to-consumer, establishing a B2B portal for distributors, assessing supply chain elastic limit, optimizing inventory, and streamlining e-commerce to meet changing customer needs. Guidelines and directions are provided for decision-makers through this study to design mobile applications in the simplest platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of C3-difluoromethyl carbinol-containing imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines at room temperature via the HFIP-promoted Friedel–Crafts reaction of difluoroacetaldehyde ethyl hemiacetal and imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines. This strategy could be applied to the direct C(sp2)-H hydroxydifluoromethylation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines and afford a series of novel difluoromethylated carbinols in good to satisfactory yields with 29 examples. Furthermore, gram-scale and synthetic transformation experiments have also been achieved, demonstrating its potential applicable value in organic synthesis. This green protocol has several advantages, including being transition metal- and oxidant-free, being carried out at room temperature, having high efficiency, and having a wide substrate scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Most Chinese local breeds have slow growth speed and high fat deposition, while European commercial chicken strains belong to fast-growing chicken breeds with low fat deposition. In general, the word "You" in China represents excessive fat deposition, and You-chicken is considered to be a typical fatten broiler. Among more than 100 local chickens in China, Baicheng-You and Beijing-You chickens are only two kinds of You-chicken breeds. However, their special genomic characteristics have not been well studied. This study analyzed the genome changes among these chicken breeds and obtained many candidate genes related to important traits of chickens, e.g., fat deposition, immune response, and melanin production. Our data provide valuable insights for understanding the formation of germplasm characteristics of these broiler breeds, which can be used to better protect and utilize the Chinese-You chickens. As the only two You-chicken breeds in China, Baicheng-You (BCY) and Beijing-You (BJY) chickens are famous for their good meat quality. However, so far, the molecular basis of germplasm of the two You-chicken breeds is not yet clear. The genetic relationship among BCY, BJY, and European-origin broilers (BRs) was analyzed using whole genome resequencing data to contribute to this issue. A total of 18,852,372 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained in this study. After quality control, 8,207,242 SNPs were applied to subsequent analysis. The data indicated that BJY chickens possessed distant distance with BRs (genetic differentiation coefficient (FST) = 0.1681) and BCY (FST = 0.1231), respectively, while BCY and BRs had a closer relationship (FST = 0.0946). In addition, by using FST, cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity (XP-EHH), and cross-population composite likelihood ratio (XP-CLR) methods, we found 374 selected genes between BJY and BRs chickens and 279 selected genes between BCY and BJY chickens, respectively, which contained a number of important candidates or genetic variations associated with feather growth and fat deposition of BJY chickens and potential disease resistance of BCY chickens. Our study demonstrates a genome-wide view of genetic diversity and differentiation among BCY, BJY, and BRs. These results may provide useful information on a molecular basis related to the special characteristics of these broiler breeds, thus enabling us to better understand the formation mechanism of Chinese-You chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of hyperspectral imaging technology, the potential for utilizing hyperspectral images to accurately estimate heavy metal concentrations in regional soil has emerged. Currently, soil heavy metal inversion based on laboratory hyperspectral data has demonstrated a commendable level of accuracy. However, satellite images are susceptible to environmental factors such as atmospheric and soil background, presenting a significant challenge in the accurate estimation of soil heavy metal concentrations. In this study, typical chromium (Cr)-contaminated agricultural land in Shaoguan City, Guangdong Province, China, was taken as the study area. Soil sample collection, Cr content determination, laboratory spectral measurements, and hyperspectral satellite image collection were carried out simultaneously. The Zhuhai-1 hyperspectral satellite image spectra were corrected to match laboratory spectra using the direct standardization (DS) algorithm. Then, the corrected spectra were integrated into an optimal model based on laboratory spectral data and sample Cr content data for regional inversion of soil heavy metal Cr content in agricultural land. The results indicated that the combination of standard normal variate (SNV)+ uninformative variable elimination (UVE)+ support vector regression (SVR) model performed best with laboratory spectral data, achieving a high accuracy with an R2 of 0.97, RMSE of 5.87, MAE of 4.72, and RPD of 4.04. The DS algorithm effectively transformed satellite hyperspectral image data into spectra resembling laboratory measurements, mitigating the impact of environmental factors. Therefore, it can be applied for regional inversion of soil heavy metal content. Overall, the study area exhibited a low-risk level of Cr content in the soil, with the majority of Cr content values falling within the range of 36.21–76.23 mg/kg. Higher concentrations were primarily observed in the southeastern part of the study area. This study can provide useful exploration for the promotion and application of Zhuhai-1 image data in the regional inversion of soil heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the high-resolution numerical weather research and forecasting (WRF) model, study the squall line process that occurred on Hainan Island on 22 April 2020. The findings indicate that high terrain blocks the swift accumulation of water vapor carried by the sea breeze and aids in preserving the accumulated water vapor. According to the sensitivity experiment, terrain height has minimal impact on the macroscopic effects of mesoscale weather processes. However, it does influence where the sea breeze converges. During this process, the ocean-land thermal contrast not only takes the main responsibility for the sea breeze but also leads to uplift motion, which affects the formation, intensity, and duration of the squall line. Additionally, the unstable conditions suggest that a thermal and dynamic environment promote the scale of this squall line. Utilizing the Rotunno–Klemp–Weisman theory (RKW), this study analyzes the effects of the cold pool and vertical wind shear. The analysis reveals that significant vertical wind shear at lower levels and the ground-cold pool contribute to the sustenance and growth of the squall line system. This squall line process has had the greatest impact on the Haikou area due to the strong low-level vertical wind shear and prolonged interaction with the cold pool. When the interaction between the cold pool and the vertical wind shear weakens, the squall dissipates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The hippocampus (HP) and amygdala are essential structures in obsessive–compulsive behavior (OCB); however, the specific role of the HP in patients with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and OCB remains unclear. (2) Objective: We investigated the alterations of hippocampal and amygdalar volumes in patients with bvFTD and OCB and assessed the correlations of clinical severity with hippocampal subfield and amygdalar nuclei volumes in bvFTD patients with OCB. (3) Materials and methods: Eight bvFTD patients with OCB were recruited and compared with eight age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). Hippocampal subfield and amygdalar nuclei volumes were analyzed automatically using a 3T magnetic resonance image and FreeSurfer v7.1.1. All participants completed the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and Frontal Behavioral Inventory (FBI). (4) Results: We observed remarkable reductions in bilateral total hippocampal volumes. Compared with the HCs, reductions in the left hippocampal subfield volume over the cornu ammonis (CA)1 body, CA2/3 body, CA4 body, granule cell layer, and molecular layer of the dentate gyrus (GC-ML-DG) body, molecular layer of the HP body, and hippocampal tail were more obvious in patients with bvFTD and OCB. Right subfield volumes over the CA1 body and molecular layer of the HP body were more significantly reduced in bvFTD patients with OCB than in those in HCs. We observed no significant difference in amygdalar nuclei volume between the groups. Among patients with bvFTD and OCB, Y-BOCS score was negatively correlated with left CA2/3 body volume (τb = −0.729, p < 0.001); total NPI score was negatively correlated with left GC-ML-DG body (τb = −0.648, p = 0.001) and total bilateral hippocampal volumes (left, τb = −0.629, p = 0.002; right, τb = −0.455, p = 0.023); and FBI score was negatively correlated with the left molecular layer of the HP body (τb = −0.668, p = 0.001), CA4 body (τb = −0.610, p = 0.002), and hippocampal tail volumes (τb = −0.552, p < 0.006). Mediation analysis confirmed these subfield volumes as direct biomarkers for clinical severity, independent of medial and lateral orbitofrontal volumes. (5) Conclusions: Alterations in hippocampal subfield volumes appear to be crucial in the pathophysiology of OCB development in patients with bvFTD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]