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[Display omitted] • Crystalline metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are good gas adsorbents but are fragile. • Compact, modular hollow fiber membrane (HFM) modules are often used in gas separation. • MOF nanocrystals located in HFM pores and in HFM bore and outside can avoid fragility. • MOF, UiO-66-NH 2 , in porous Nylon HFM successfully adsorbed NH 3 from a gas stream. • NH 3 breakthrough concentration for a humid stream has a high value of time/MOF weight. Crystalline metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with high porosity have high sorption capacities for various gases. Their fragile and pulverulent characteristics have prompted significant efforts to prepare shaped bodies e.g., pellets, granules for use in adsorbers. A hollow fiber membrane-based strategy is adopted since hollow fiber membrane (HFM) modules are highly preferred for industrial separation processes due to very high surface area provided per unit device volume and their easy scalability. We report herein a solvothermal synthesis method whereby nanocrystals of the MOF, UiO-66-NH 2 , are synthesized directly inside submicron pores of hydrophilic hollow fiber membranes of Nylon 6 as well as in the bores of the HFMs. Nanocrystals of around 100 nm populate HFM pores. Cylindrical modules containing such HFMs and MOF nanocrystals and microcrystals in membrane pores, HFM bores and the extra capillary space were studied for adsorption of ammonia from a dilute gas stream. High values of ammonia breakthrough time were achieved. The corresponding behaviors of three MOF configurations namely, MOF in membrane pores, MOF in membrane pores and the HFM bores and MOF present in membrane pores, HFM bores and in extra capillary space were studied. The values of time/MOF weight achieved were very high. The MOFs synthesized were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffractometer (PXRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) adsorption isotherms, surface area, and pore size distribution. High performance of HFM-supported MOF-based scalable devices for gas/vapor adsorption has been demonstrated with values of 20,000 min/g of MOF for trace ammonia breakthrough from humid ammonia feed gas stream employed. Other potential uses of such devices for adsorbing 2 to 3 gases and liquid phase adsorption have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al-Cu-Mg alloys are widely utilized as a key component of gyroscope navigation systems, since their dimensional stability under different service environments (e.g., thermal or magnetic fields) is the determinant factor for reliable navigation. In this work, a preliminary treatment under the coupling of thermal-magnetic fields was applied to optimize the dimensional stability of the alloy by tailoring the microstructural defects and second phases. A lower thermal strain value of ∼1.58 × 10–3 was rapidly achieved after 6 h by high-efficiency thermal-magnetic treatments (523 K and B = 0.3 T), in comparison with ∼1.67 × 10–3 by thermal treatment. The dimensional variation was mainly attributed to the dislocation density, volume fraction and shape of the Al 2 CuMg phase. Furthermore, the nucleation rate of Al 2 CuMg phases and the annihilation of dislocations were promoted under the coupling effect of the thermal-magnetic treatments. These microstructural evolutions accelerated the reduction of the stored energy and lattice distortion, therefore rapidly decreasing the thermal strain. As a result, a thermal-magnetic field treatment may serve as an effective method to improve the dimensional stability of Al-Cu-Mg alloys for further application in the field of space exploration. [Display omitted] • In comparison with TT, lower thermal strain can be achieved by TMTs (523 K, 0.3 T). • The magnetic field improved N ̇ due to the increase of v and the decrease of Δ G A. • Annihilation of dislocation is promoted due to the mobility of defects induced by TMT. • The promotion of N ̇ and dislocation annihilation improved the dimensional stability. • TMT process can be proposed to improve the dimensional stability of Al-Cu-Mg alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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LaNi1−xFexO3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.6) were synthesized by the sol–gel method. The Fe-substitution for Ni suppresses the formation of NiII on the perovskite surface and creates a stronger surface Ni–O bond. This study exhibits the possibility to adjust the bi-functional activity of LaNiO3 through a simple doping process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influenza epidemics pose a significant threat to public health. Of them, type B influenza coincided with several severe flu outbreaks. The efficacy of the current seasonal flu vaccine is limited due to the antigenicity changes of circulating strains. In this study, we generated structure-stabilized HA stalk antigens from influenza B and fabricated double-layered protein nanoparticles as universal influenza B vaccine candidates. In vitro studies found that the resulting protein nanoparticles were effectively taken up to activate dendritic cells. Nanoparticle immunization induced broadly reactive immune responses conferring robust and sustained cross-immune protection against influenza B virus strains of both lineages. The results reveal the potential of layered protein nanoparticles incorporated with structure-stabilized constant antigens as a universal influenza vaccine with improved immune protective potency and breadth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 1996, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus has presented a persistent threat to public health. Its high degree of genetic diversity also poses enormous challenges in developing effective vaccines. To search for vaccine regimens that could elicit broadly neutralizing antibody responses against diverse HPAI H5N1 strains, in the present study we tested H5 hemagglutinin (HA) from an A/Thailand/1(KAN)-1/2004 strain in a heterologous prime-boost vaccination. We demonstrated that priming mice with DNA and boosting with virus-like particle induced antibody responses that cross-neutralize all reported clades and subclades of HPAI H5N1 viruses and protect mice from high lethal dose HPAI H5N1 challenge in both active and passive immunizations. Unexpectedly, cross-divergent H5 neutralizing antibodies are directed to the HA head and block both attachment and postattachment of virus entry. Thus, we conclude that as a promising pan-H5 vaccine candidate this prime-boost regimen could be further developed in ferrets and in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For reinforced concrete structures under chloride attack, a computational framework was proposed to transform the chemical action of the expansion of nonuniform steel corrosion in concrete into mechanical action to research the corrosion resistance of concrete structures. A prediction model of cover cracking considering the penetration of rust into cracks was proposed based on the thick-walled cylinder model. The service life of a concrete structure was assumed to include both the time for the depassivation of the reinforcement and the time for cover cracking. An accelerated corrosion test was performed, and the nonuniform corrosion of the reinforcement was obtained by three-dimensional scanning. The measured cover cracking time was consistent with the theoretical value, which confirmed the applicability of the prediction model. • A corrosion rate model in general/high-humidity conditions was established. • A chemical-mechanical transformation framework was proposed. • The difference in k between long-term/accelerated tests is distinguished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza viral infection causes acute upper respiratory diseases in humans, posing severe risks to global public health. However, current vaccines provide limited protection against mismatched circulating influenza A viruses. Here, the immune responses induced in mice by novel double-layered protein nanoparticles were investigated. The nanoparticles were composed of influenza nucleoprotein (NP) cores and hemagglutinin (HA) or matrix 2 protein ectodomain (M2e) shells. Vaccination with the nanoparticles significantly enhanced M2e-specific serum antibody titers and concomitant ADCC responses. Robust NP-specific T cell responses and robust HA neutralization were also detected. Moreover, vaccination with a trivalent nanoparticle combination containing two routinely circulated HA, conserved M2e, and NP reduced lung virus titers, pulmonary pathologies, and weight loss after homologous virus challenge. This combination also improved survival rates against heterologous and heterosubtypic influenza virus challenges. Our results demonstrate that the trivalent combination elicited potent and long-lasting immune responses conferring influenza viral cross-protection. The double-layered protein nanoparticles combination composed of conserved NP as core and two routinely circulated HAs and conserved M2e as shell induces broad immune protection against divergent influenza A viruses. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ancient city wall of Xindeng in Fuyang, China was characterized. • Lime/clay/sand are present in the historical wall. • The results vary greatly among the locations selected. • High volume of aggregates and blue brick leads to great strength. • CaCO 3 and SiO 2 are the major phases present in the historical wall. The goal of this investigation is to characterize the mortar from the ancient city wall of Xindeng in Fuyang, Hangzhou (China), which reveals a history of nearly 1800 years. Several approaches were used to analyze seven specimens obtained from this ancient city wall, and physical properties, mechanical performances, binder/aggregate ratios of these specimens were then determined. However, the mixture compositions as well as the mix design vary greatly among different locations of the city wall. The results indicate that the historical wall is mainly composed of hydrated lime and sand, and parts of the specimens also contain clay. Meanwhile, calcite and quartz are the major phases present in the historical wall mortars with several impurities. Further, the specimens' great strength and large apparent density are related to the abundant aggregates used and the presence of the fragments of blue brick within the specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Single crystals of alpha-alumina were irradiated at room temperature with 1.157GeV 56Fe, 1.755GeV 136Xe and 2.636GeV 238U ions to fluences range from 8.7×109 to 6×1012 ions/cm2. Virgin and irradiated samples were investigated by ultraviolet–visible absorption measurements. The investigation reveals the presence of various color centers appearing in the irradiated samples. It is found that the ratio of peak absorbance of F2 to F centers increases with the increase of the atomic numbers of the incident ions from Fe, Xe to U ions, so do the absorbance ratio of to F+ centers and of large defect cluster to F centers, indicating that larger defect clusters are preferred to be produced under heavier ion irradiation. Largest color center production cross-section was found for the U ion irradiation. The number density of single anion vacancy scales better with the energy deposition through processes of nuclear stopping, indicating that the nuclear energy loss processes determines the production of F-type defects in heavy ion irradiated alpha-alumina. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Existing methods for alkene epoxidation are based on lipase-catalysed perhydrolysis. However, the inactivation of the expensive lipase enzyme is problematic for enzymatic epoxidation at large scales due to the use of hydrogen peroxide and peracids at high concentrations in the reaction. The immobilisation of whole cells appears to be a promising approach to alleviate this problem. Results: A green oxidation system containing hydrogen peroxide, Na3C6H5O7, an acyl donor, and glutaraldehyde (GA)-crosslinked cells of Rhizopus oryzae was developed for the epoxidation of alkenes. GA-crosslinked cells of Rhizopus oryzae were adopted as a biocatalyst into the epoxidation system. A variety of alkenes were oxidised with this system, with a 56–95% analytical yield of the corresponding epoxides. The catalytic performance of the crosslinked treated cells was substantially improved compared to that of the untreated cells and the initial reaction rate increased from 126.71 to 234.72 mmol/L/h, retaining 83% yields even after four batches of reactions. The addition of 3.5 mmol Na3C6H5O7 not only acts as an acid-trapping reagent to eliminate the negative effect of the carboxylic acid on the alkene oxide but also forms a saturated salt solution with the aqueous phase, affecting the concentration of H2O2 in the three phases and thus the epoxidation reaction. Organic solvents with a logP value > 0.68 were good at producing hydroxy peracids; however, this method is only suitable for oxidation in a two-liquid phase. Conclusions: Compared with other lipase biocatalysts, the GA-crosslinked whole-cell biocatalyst is inexpensive, readily available, and highly stable. Therefore, it can be considered promising for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano MgO and light-burnt MgO were added into pastes mixed with Portland cement and slag to compensate for the shrinkage of mass concrete. The results indicated that an increased nano MgO content improved strength within a certain range. The strength of group with 8 % nano MgO increased by 12 % and 8 % under autoclaving and water curing, respectively, while increased light-burned MgO content deteriorated strength. The nano MgO-based group exhibited enhanced compressive strength and smaller expansion than the light-burnt MgO-based group, due to its higher efficiency of filling pores by uniformly distributed brucite. Moreover, MgO hydration mainly occurred within 365 d of water curing, and nano MgO and light-burnt MgO were fully hydrated at 730 d. Overall, this study provided the theoretical basis for adding nano-MgO and light-burnt MgO to compensate for the shrinkages of mass concrete on a large scale. • Maximum nano MgO content with certain initial light-burnt MgO content was proposed. • Nano MgO revealed smaller expansion effect than light-burnt MgO. • MgO hydration mainly occurred within 365 d of water curing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) often experience muscle loss due to pain and limited mobility. Nutritional supplementation and rehabilitation may positively affect the decline in muscle function. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether whey protein intervention, in addition to conventional rehabilitation training, is beneficial in improving muscle function and quality of life in patients after TKA. METHODS: 72 patients who met the criteria were selected for this randomized controlled study. For the experimental group, whey protein was used as a daily supplement for 12 weeks, while the control group was given a placebo, during which both groups received conventional rehabilitation training. Muscle strength and each of the secondary observables needed to be measured and statistically analyzed preoperatively and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-intervention. RESULTS: In total, 62 subjects completed the study: 32 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group. Both groups showed significant improvement in muscle strength, VAS, ROM, AKS and leg circumference after 12 weeks of treatment. Compared to the control group, patients in the experimental group showed significant improvement in muscle strength, VAS, ROM, AKS and leg circumference (p = 0.001, p = 0.002, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, respectively) after 12 weeks of treatment. CONCLUSION: The 12-week intervention of whey protein nutritional supplement showed significant improvement in muscle mass and function among post-TKA patients besides aiding with conventional rehabilitation exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beyond their pulmonary disease, many COVID-19 patients experience a complex constellation of characteristics, including hyperinflammatory responses, autoimmune disorders, and coagulopathies. However, the pathogenesis of these aspects of COVID-19 is obscure. More than 90% of people are latently infected with the lymphotropic herpesviruses Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) and/or Human Herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6). Some of the inflammatory features of COVID-19 resemble clinical syndromes seen during EBV and HHV-6 infection, and these latent viruses can be reactivated by inflammatory mediators. We hypothesized that EBV and HHV-6 reactivation might be a common feature of early COVID-19, particularly in patients with more inflammation. We tested for EBV and HHV-6 reactivation in 67 patients acutely hospitalized with COVID-19 using previously validated quantitative PCR assays on the plasma. In our cohort, we found that 15/67 (22.4%) patients had detectable EBV and 3/67 (4.5%) had detectable HHV-6. This frequency of activation is somewhat more than the frequency reported for some healthy cohorts, such as blood donors and other healthy control cohorts. There was no association between EBV or HHV-6 and markers indicative of more inflammatory disease. We conclude that EBV and HHV-6 activation at about day 7 of hospitalization occurred in a modest fraction of our cohort of COVID-19 patients and was not associated with high levels of inflammation. In the modest fraction of patients, EBV and HHV-6 reactivation could contribute to some features of acute disease and pre-disposition to post-acute sequelae in a subset of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MOF UiO-66-NH 2 crystals synthesized inside 0.45 μm ePTFE membrane pores and outside. • A MOF-filled membrane pore, a nanopacked bed, has high toxic vapor removal capacity. • Three layers of such membranes block NH 3 for 145 min while N 2 & H 2 O vapor go through. • A single layer membrane regenerated after NH 3 breakthrough blocks NH 3 for 200 min +. • The membrane-supported nanopacked bed of MOFs blocks Cl 2 and CEES as well. Defense against small molecule toxic gases is an important aspect of protection against chemical and biological threat as well as chemical releases from industrial accidents. Current protective respirators/garments cannot effectively block small molecule toxic gases and vapors and retain moisture transmission capability without a heavy burden. Here, we developed a nanopacked bed of nanoparticles of UiO-66-NH 2 metal organic framework (MOF) by synthesizing them in the pores of microporous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membranes. The submicron scale size of membrane pores ensures a large surface area of MOF nanoparticles which can capture/adsorb and react with toxic gas molecules efficiently. It was demonstrated that the microporous ePTFE membrane with UiO-66-NH 2 MOF grown inside and around the membrane can defend against ammonia for a significant length of time while allowing passage of moisture and nitrogen. It was also demonstrated that the MOF-loaded ePTFE membrane could provide significant protection from Cl 2 intrusion as well as intrusion from 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) (a simulant for sulfur mustard). Such MOF-filled membranes exhausted by NH 3 breakthrough experiments were regenerated conveniently by heating at 60 °C for one week under vacuum for further/repeated use; a single regenerated membrane could block NH 3 for 200–300 min. The moisture permeability of such a membrane/nanopacked bed was considerably above the breathability threshold value of 2000 g/m2 -day. The results suggest that microporous membranes filled with reactive MOF nanoparticles could be designed as protective barriers against toxic gases/vapors, e.g., NH 3 and Cl 2 and yet be substantially permeable to H 2 O and air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As industrial by-products, mineral admixtures can improve the crack resistance of concrete. However, the early crack resistance performance of concrete mixed with ternary minerals (steel slag powder, mineral powder and fly ash) was not fully understood. In this study, the mechanical and crack resistance performance of each group was preliminarily investigated using the slab method. Then G52 group and the control group were selected for a comparative analysis based on temperature stress testing machine (TSTM) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. The results show that the ternary minerals admixtures reduced the early strength and enhanced the 28d strength of concrete. Meanwhile, they reduced the early adiabatic temperature rise, the maximum compressive stress and the influence of creep on the crack resistance performance of concrete, thereby enhancing the tensile stress at cracking of concrete. Overall, this study provided new insights into the mix proportions of ternary minerals concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the ability of optical modulators to achieve rapid modulation of optical signals, meeting the demands of high-speed data transmission, modulators based on different novel nanomaterials have become one of the research hotspots over the past dacade. Recently, TiN/Ti3C2 heterojunction exhibits highly efficient thermo-optic performance and extremely strong stability. Therefore, we have demonstrated an all-optical modulator based on the principle of Michelson interference and the thermo-optic effect in this paper. The modulator employs a TiN/Ti3C2 heterojunction-coated microfiber (THM) and further demonstrates its ability to generate phase shifts through an ASE light source. The modulator, with a phase shift slope of 0.025π/mW, can also convert the phase shifts of signal light into amplitude modulation through Michelson interference. The fixed signal light wavelength is 1552.09 nm, and the modulation depth is stable at about 26.4 dB within a wavelength detuning range of −10 to 6 nm; The waveforms of signal light at modulation rates of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, and 3000 Hz were tested, and a 3 dB modulation bandwidth of 2 kHz was measured. The all-optical modulator based on THM has the advantages of high efficiency and stability and has broad application prospects in the fields of all-optical signal processing and high-speed optical communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The largemouth bronze gudgeon has experienced a sharp drop in its natural population and has been listed as a protected species in China. The frequent occurrence of ovarian development obstruction from stage III to IV has restricted artificial propagation. Due to lipids being a crucial factor for ovarian development, this study aimed to characterize the ovarian lipid profile at different development stages in largemouth bronze gudgeons. Using UPLC-MS/MS, 1353 lipids belonging to 46 subclasses were identified in ovaries from largemouth bronze gudgeons. The results showed that glycerolipids and glycerophospholipids were the dominant lipids during ovarian development. Lysophosphatidyl choline (LPC), phosphatidyl choline (PC), and phosphatidylserine (PS), as the crucial phospholipids for ovarian development, were significantly reduced from stage III to IV. This may be the main cause of ovarian development obstruction for largemouth bronze gudgeons. Meanwhile, the enrichment analysis revealed that lipid metabolites are present at different ovarian development stages. Glycerophospholipid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid metabolism were significantly enriched at stage IV. This study shows the complete picture of the ovarian lipid composition profile, and also discovers that phospholipids may be the limiting factor for ovarian development; these findings offer a theoretical basis for the artificial propagation and release of the largemouth bronze gudgeon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All‐optical modulators, where one light modulates the parameters of another light (intensity, phase, frequency, etc.) without external electronic control, have drawn extraordinary attention in all‐optical information processing. In this contribution, by taking advantage of the two‐pass structure of Michelson interferometer and the strong photothermal conversion efficiency of MXene nanomaterials, an all‐optical modulator is demonstrated with a modulation depth of >27 dB, a free spectrum range of 16.8 nm and a pump‐induced phase shift slope of 0.043 π mW−1. Moreover, the all‐optical modulator is successfully employed to switch on/off the intensity of the signal light and load information from one channel to another with comparable response time and baudrate. It is believed that the MXene‐based all‐optical modulator will open a door to practical applications of 2D materials‐based all‐optical devices in all‐optical signal processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fatigue properties of 2519A Al alloy were obviously improved after DST. • Increased aspect ratio of grain and PFZ width after DST increased the resistance to crack expansion along GBs. • Bridging effect of second phase reduced after DST enhance alloy's fatigue properties. 2519A aluminum alloy thick plates have excellent applications in the military industry due to their superior ballistic resistance and fatigue properties. However, the delamination cracking along the thickness direction of this alloy hinders its further utilization. To address this issue and enhance the fatigue properties of this alloy, the effect of single-stage solid solution treatment (SST) and two-stage solid solution treatment (DST) on the fatigue crack propagation (FCP) behavior in the thickness direction of the alloy was investigated. Compared to the optimum SST, the volume fraction of the secondary phase of the alloy was reduced by 28.6% after DST. The precipitated phases were finer with more uniform distribution, and the volume fraction and number density of the precipitation increased by 47% and 30%, respectively. The DST resulted in a lower fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) and an increase of 2.92% in the critical stress intensity factor value (Δ Kcr). The crack propagation mode of the alloy after SST was inter/transgranular crack propagation, while it was transgranular after DST. The aspect ratio of grain and the number of secondary phases in the alloy decrease after DST. Meanwhile, the grain boundary (GB) precipitation phase spacing, the precipitation-free zone (PFZ) width, and the spacing between the secondary phases increase. These changes result in decreased crack sources in the alloy and reduced the bridging effect of secondary phases on fatigue cracks, thus improving the fatigue performance of the alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastatic progression is the primary cause of mortality in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Although circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in cancer progression and metastasis, our current understanding of their role in PCa metastasis remains limited. In this study, we identified that circUBE3A(2,3,4,5), which originated from exons 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the human ubiquitin-protein ligase E3A (UBE3A) gene, was specifically downregulated in PCa tissues and correlated with the Gleason score, bone metastasis, and D'Amico risk classification. Through the in vitro and in vivo experiments, we demonstrated that overexpression of circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) inhibited PCa cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and proliferation. Mechanistically, circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) was found to bind to adenylate-uridylate-rich binding factor 1 (AUF1), promoting the translocation of AUF1 into the nucleus. This led to decreased AUF1 in the cytoplasm, resulting in methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) mRNA instability and a subsequent reduction at the protein level. The downregulation of MTHFD2 further inhibited vimentin expression, thereby suppressing PCa cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Additionally, two pairs of the short-inverted repeats (TSIRs) in flanking introns were identified to synergistically facilitate the generation of circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) and other circRNAs. In summary, TSIRs-induced circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) acts as a suppressor of PCa metastasis by enhancing AUF1 nuclear translocation, reducing MTHFD2, and subsequently inhibiting vimentin expression. This study characterizes circUBE3A(2,3,4,5) as a functional circRNA and proposes it as a highly promising target for preventing PCa metastasis. • CircUBE3A(2,3,4,5) is a suppressor of metastasis in prostate cancer. • CircUBE3A(2,3,4,5) binds to adenylate-uridylate-rich binding factor 1 (AUF1) and promotes AUF1 nuclear translocation. • AUF1 binds to the 3′UTR of methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2) mRNA, sustaining its stability. • Knock-down of MTHFD2 decreases the expression of vimentin to suppress prostate cancer cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition. • Two pairs of the short-inverted repeats (10bp) in flanking introns synergistically facilitate circRNAs generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the eavesdropping model of non-line-of-sight (NLOS) scattering channel in mid-infrared (MIR) free-space optical (FSO) communication system, the physical-layer security is analyzed theoretically by considering the effects of the atmospheric turbulence, atmospheric attenuation, and beam divergence attenuation. The effects of atmospheric turbulence, transmission distance, and visibility on secrecy capacity and interception probability are investigated. Secrecy capacity and interception probability of near-infrared (NIR) system are compared with those of MIR system. It is theoretically demonstrated that the secrecy capacity of the NIR system is smaller than that of the MIR system. Closed-form expression of interception probability is derived. Furthermore, in the same visibility condition, the interception probability of the MIR system is much lower than that of the NIR system. Therefore, compared with the NIR system, MIR system has much better performance of physical-layer security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secrecy capacity is usually employed as the performance metric of the physical layer security in fiber-optic wiretap channels. However, secrecy capacity can only qualitatively evaluate the physical layer security, and it cannot quantitatively evaluate the physical layer security of an imperfect security system. Furthermore, secrecy capacity cannot quantitatively evaluate the amount of information leakage to the eavesdropper. Based on the channel model of an optical CDMA network using wiretap code, the information leakage rate is analyzed to evaluate the physical layer security. The numerical results show that the information leakage rate can quantitatively evaluate the physical layer security of an optical CDMA wiretap channel, and it is related to transmission distance, eavesdropping position, confidential information rate and optical code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoysiagrass, the most cold-tolerant grass among the warm-season turfgrasses, is often used as a model species for isolating cellular components related to cold stress. To understand the proteomic responses to cold stress in zoysiagrass stolons, we extracted stolon proteins from Zoysia japonica, cv. Meyer (cold-tolerant) and Z. metrella, cv. Diamond (cold-sensitive), which were grown with or without cold treatment. Approximately 700 proteins were resolved on 2-DE gels, and 70 protein spots were differentially accumulated. We further observed that 45 of the identified proteins participate in 10 metabolic pathways and cellular processes. A significantly greater number of proteins accumulated in the Meyer than in the Diamond and 15 increased proteins were detected only in the Meyer cultivar under cold stress. Furthermore, we propose a cold stress-responsive protein network composed of several different functional components that exhibits a balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and scavenging, accelerated protein biosynthesis and proteolysis, reduced protein folding, enhanced photosynthesis, abundant energy supply and enhanced biosynthesis of carbohydrates and nucleotides. Generally, the cold-tolerant Meyer cultivar showed a greater ROS scavenging ability, more abundant energy supply and increased photosynthesis and protein synthesis than did the cold-sensitive Diamond cultivar, which may partly explain why Meyer is more cold tolerant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoysiagrass, the most cold-tolerant grass among the warm-season turfgrasses, is often used as a model species for isolating cellular components related to cold stress. To understand the proteomic responses to cold stress in zoysiagrass stolons, we extracted stolon proteins from Zoysia japonica, cv. Meyer (cold-tolerant) and Z. metrella, cv. Diamond (cold-sensitive), which were grown with or without cold treatment. Approximately 700 proteins were resolved on 2-DE gels, and 70 protein spots were differentially accumulated. We further observed that 45 of the identified proteins participate in 10 metabolic pathways and cellular processes. A significantly greater number of proteins accumulated in the Meyer than in the Diamond and 15 increased proteins were detected only in the Meyer cultivar under cold stress. Furthermore, we propose a cold stress-responsive protein network composed of several different functional components that exhibits a balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and scavenging, accelerated protein biosynthesis and proteolysis, reduced protein folding, enhanced photosynthesis, abundant energy supply and enhanced biosynthesis of carbohydrates and nucleotides. Generally, the cold-tolerant Meyer cultivar showed a greater ROS scavenging ability, more abundant energy supply and increased photosynthesis and protein synthesis than did the cold-sensitive Diamond cultivar, which may partly explain why Meyer is more cold tolerant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the depletion of river sand and the rising price of quartz sand, more and more researchers are trying to use manufactured sand to prepare ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). However, due to the large amount of fine particles and high water demand, few studies are available to directly use the manufactured sand in its original state to prepare UHPC. To overcome the above problems, in this study, two locally available recycled manufactured sands are used as aggregates, and an attempt is made to maximize the use of their original gradation to prepare a cleaner construction production integrating high flowability, excellent mechanical performance, high cost-effective and environmentally-friendly property that meets the engineering requirements. The properties of workability, mechanical strengths, volume stability, hydration degree, pore structures, morphology of interfacial transition zone (ITZ), carbon emission and production cost are evaluated and discussed. Results indicate that all the mixtures prepared in this study can be considered to have high flowability except when granite sand is completely used. The mixture containing 75% tuff sand can even reach a compressive strength of 166.2 MPa, which is 10.5% higher than the reference one. A reduction of 28.9% can be observed in the early-age autogenous shrinkage of tuff sand UHPC as compared to the reference specimen. The mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and X-ray computed tomography (X-CT) results demonstrate that the micropore volume, porosity and number of mesopores of UHPC increase to a certain extent when manufactured sand is utilized. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation reveals the most compact ITZ between cement paste and waste tuff sand. Additionally, the recycled manufactured sand UHPC can diminish the carbon emission of 19 kg and the cost of 27.4% (granite sand) and 25.5% (tuff sand) per cubic meter, showing excellent environmental and economical benefits. • Two locally available recycled manufactured sands were used to replace the refined quartz sand. • An attempt was made to maximize the use of the original gradation of the recycled sands. • The CO 2 emission was diminished by 19 kg and the prices were lowered by at least 25.5% to produce 1 m3 manufactured sands UHPC. • The prepared cleaner production integrated high flowability, advanced mechanical properties and excellent environmental and economical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adhesive strength between the sizing agent and carbon fiber (CF) plays a crucial role in improving the interfacial properties of composites, while such a vital aspect has been consistently disregarded. In this study, a hyperbranched waterborne polyurethane (HWPU) sizing agent was synthesized from biogenetically raw materials including gallic acid, l -Lysine diisocyanate and amylopectin. Concurrently, hydrogen-bonded cross-linked network structures were established utilizing a botanical polyphenol tannin as coupling agent to effectively connect CF with HWPU. This meticulous process yielded CF/nylon 6 composites with improved properties and their mechanical characteristics were systematically investigated. The findings showcased a noteworthy boost in flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), showing enhancements of 54.6 % and 61.4 %, respectively, surpassing those of untreated CF. Furthermore, the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) test indicated a remarkable 70.3 % improvement. This approach presents a highly promising concept aimed at developing sustainable green waterborne polyurethane sizing agent and improving the interfacial performance of CF composite materials. • Bio-based hyperbranched polyurethane sizing agents for CF/PA6 were prepared. • Natural biological macromolecule amylopectin was utilized in the synthesis of waterborne polyurethane. • Sizing and surface modification synergistically improve the interfacial properties. • The ILSS, IFSS and flexural strength were increased by 61.4 %, 70.3 % and 54.6 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• N-doped porous carbon nanofibers are synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method. • Carbon nanofibers are derived from their phenolic-resin-based analogues. • The mechanism underlying is proposed in the viewpoint of micelle evolvement. • N-doped carbon as electrode material offers superior electrochemical performance. Carbon nanofibers (CNFs), possessing high electrical conductance and facilitating fast electron transfer due to 1D structure, attract more research interests in the field of energy storage/conversion. It is highly desirable to develop a simple synthetic approach to prepare high quality CNFs for high efficient electrode material. Herein, a facile method is developed to prepare nitrogen-doped porous CNFs with high aspect ratio by direct pyrolysis of phenolic-resin-based precursors which are synthesized via a simple hydrothermal approach. After activation by KOH, the nitrogen-doped porous CNFs demonstrate a high surface area up to 1814.1 m2/g thereby offering a high capacitance while working as the electrode material assembled in a supercapacitor. The activated CNFs as electrode material present a high specific capacitance of 333.5F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 in a three-electrode cell. After 10,000 cycles of charge–discharge tests at 5A g−1, the decay in specific capacitance is only 3.7 %, indicating a high reversibility. Also, the tests in a two electrode system show a high energy density of 8.6 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 25 W kg−1. Therefore, the nitrogen-doped CNFs derived from its phenolic-resin-based precursor hold a promise for an efficient electrode material in supercapacitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the reliability and physical layer security of free space optical (FSO) communication system simultaneously, we propose an EDFA-based all-optical relaying FSO-CDMA wiretap channel model. Two-dimensional optical encoder and decoder are designed and constructed by wavelength selective switch Add/Drop and optical delay lines. A 10 Gb/s experimental system of EDFA-based all-optical relaying FSO-CDMA wiretap channel is built and investigated for the first time. Experimental results show that the BER of the legitimate user is greatly affected by the turbulence effect, and the reliability of EDFA-based all-optical relaying FSO-CDMA can be improved significantly. Compared with the uncoded system, the optical coding scheme can enhance the physical layer security. In the experimental system, with the enhancement of turbulence, the secrecy capacity of the system will increase. At the received power -22 dBm, the secrecy capacity is 0.28 bit/symbol in weak turbulence, while the secrecy capacity is 0.35 bit/symbol in moderate turbulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reinforcement mechanism introduced by HWPU sizing agent and Fenton reaction. [Display omitted] • Bio-based hyperbranched polyurethane sizing agents for CF/PA6 were prepared. • The Fenton reaction was implemented in aqueous phase to modified the CF surface. • The chelation of Fe3+ with sizing agent enhanced the adhesion between sizing agent and CF. • Sizing and Fenton reaction was synergetic enhance the mechanical property of composites. • The ILSS, IFSS and bending strength were increased by 60.0%, 71.2% and 54.3%. The adhesive strength between the sizing agent and carbon fiber (CF) plays a pivotal role in determining the interfacial properties of composites. Unfortunately, this critical aspect has been consistently overlooked. In this study, a hyperbranched waterborne polyurethane (HWPU) sizing agent was prepared by biogenetic derived raw materials including gallic acid as well as tannic acid. Meanwhile, iron ion was introduced onto the surface of CF by Fenton reaction, forming a heterogeneous structure to elevate the mechanical interlocking between the CF and resin. Chelation of TA with iron ion on the fiber surface effectively enhanced the adhesion between sizing agent and CF. The mechanical properties of the newly designed composites were systematically investigated. The results showcase a significant enhancement in both flexural strength and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) compared to untreated CF, marking improvements of 54.3% and 60.0%, respectively. Furthermore, the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) test exhibited a 71.2% augment. In conclusion, this approach presented a highly promising concept aimed at improving the interfacial performance of CF composite materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The noise-like pulse (NLP) ultrafast fiber laser at 1.7 μm is obtained. • The fiber laser produces the output pulse energy of 4.19 nJ. • The shot-to-shot spectra can indicate that the NLP is actually a pulse envelope composed of chaotic pulses. • The system is simple and compact with all-fiber configuration. In this manuscript, we demonstrate the generation and real-time dynamics of noise-like pulses (NLPs) in a 1.7 μm ultrafast thulium-doped fiber laser with all-fiber structure. NLPs with a central wavelength of ∼ 1742.5 nm and a 3-dB spectral width of ∼ 10.95 nm could be observed with pulse energy up to 4.19 nJ. The dynamic characteristics of NLPs were explored by using time-stretch dispersive Fourier transformation technology, which shows that the NLPs actually consist of many chaotic small pulse envelopes with random and changeable energies. These experimental results indicate that NLPs are the intrinsic features of fiber lasers and hold significant importance for further academic research, which can contribute to the development and application of 1.7 μm fiber laser in fields such as biomedicine and short-range remote sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]