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PurposeMethodsResultsConclusionsTo evaluate dry eye severity and ocular surface inflammation in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs).Seventy-nine patients with ARDs were enrolled, including 26 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 33 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and 20 patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). All patients underwent ocular surface evaluations, including ocular surface symptoms, signs, conjunctival impression cytology, and tear multicytokine detection. Systemic conditions, including disease duration, disease activity, and serological parameters, were also noted.SLE patients had the shortest disease duration, and nearly half of them had low disease activity, while RA patients and pSS patients had a relatively long disease duration, and approximately 90% of them had moderate or high disease activity. The incidence of dry eye and the levels of the proinflammatory tear cytokines in SLE were significantly lower than those in RA and pSS. However, ocular surface squamous metaplasia was more severe in SLE and pSS than in RA. Dry eye severity in all ARD patients was shown to be independent of disease activity, while Nelson’s grades were positively correlated with disease duration in RA patients. Disease-related serological parameters were associated with tear proinflammatory cytokines in all ARD patients.Variable degrees of dry eye and immune-mediated ocular surface inflammation persist in different ARD patients. In addition to a well-known association between dry eye and pSS, dry eye is also commonly observed in SLE and RA patients. Therefore, there is a definite need for regular ophthalmologic evaluations and topical medications in all patients with ARDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate ocular surface involvement, tear cytokine levels, and histopathological changes in pemphigus and pemphigoid patients. A total of 22 patients (15 pemphigus and 7 pemphigoids) and 21 non-diseased controls were enrolled in our study. All participants underwent ocular surface evaluation, which included ocular surface disease index test, slit lamp observation, dry eye-related examination, tear multicytokine analysis, and conjunctival impression cytology. Pemphigus and pemphigoid patients presented much more severe conjunctivochalasis, corneal epithelial defects, corneal opacity, symblepharon and dry eye. Severe ocular surface squamous metaplasia and a significant increase of tear macrophage inflammatory protein-1beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL −6, and IL-8 occurred in pemphigus and pemphigoid patients. Our results revealed that ocular surface inflammation and dry eye persist in most pemphigus and pemphigoid patients, and do not occur in parallel with the systemic course. Regular ophthalmological examinations and local anti-inflammatory should be provided for pemphigus and pemphigoid patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The load-bearing capacity is a pivotal consideration in the design of offshore renewable energy structures. This paper aims to address the technical challenges associated with the additional wave loads caused by the integrated devices in a hybrid system for the multi-purpose utilization of coastal renewable energy. A self-protected hybrid wind-wave energy system is proposed, in which an oscillating water column (OWC) device is attached at a monopile foundation of an offshore wind turbine. In the meantime, the OWC is connected by a submerged horizontal perforated plate at its exterior shell, which is expected to minimize the wave loads on the system. The hydrodynamic performance of the system is investigated. A novel approach is developed to model the wave interaction with the hybrid system. This efficient approach removes the necessity of decomposing the wave-scattering field into diffraction and pressure-dependent radiation components. Detailed numerical computation is then conducted for both regular and irregular sea states. Various hydrodynamic properties related to the system, such as wave energy harvesting, wave force/moment, and free-surface elevation, have been evaluated. Numerical results manifest the feasibility of imposing a negligible effect on the high wave energy harvesting while reducing the high wave loads by manipulating the submerged horizontal perforated plate. The impact of the perforated plate on the dominant wave energy harvesting in the long-period region is found to be trivial. In contrast, it can affect the high bending moment in the short-period region, which causes a reduction of greater than 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water wave interactions with arrays of wave energy converters are numerically investigated based on the interaction theory. The converter is a heaving point absorber that can harness the ocean wave energy through up-and-down movements. A semi-analytical hybrid method is developed that combines the boundary element method and the interaction theory. The developed numerical method is verified against theoretical solutions for arrays of truncated vertical circular cylinders. Three different array layouts are studied in detail. It is found that trapped waves exist at critical wave numbers just below the cutoff values, and the peak load on the middle device increases with the number of devices in head waves. With the increase in the complexity of the array layout, significant wave force enhancement is observed, leading to a broader range of magnitude and stronger variations over the frequency band in beam waves. Moreover, variations of the q-factor show that there are some remarkable "bright spot" regions, indicating that the wave energy absorption there is locally optimized against wave conditions. By arranging the layout in a more randomized way, the optimal conditions for maximized power output can be hard to achieve, but the maximum power output can increase to a higher level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission technology has incomparable advantages in long‐distance and large‐capacity transmission. With the development of HVDC transmission technology, transmission lines inevitably pass through some densely populated and economically developed areas. Due to environmental considerations, the space electric field around the buildings that are adjacent to HVDC transmission lines has aroused increasing attention. However, it is hard to be predicted by simulation because of the calculation complexity. This paper proposed a new calculated method to obtain the composite electric field around HVDC transmission lines with adjacent residential buildings, and the validity and correctness of the method are verified by the experimental results. Then, the distortion of the electric field around the building and its impact on the design of the safe corridor width of the HVDC transmission line is analyzed. The proposed method, unlike existing methods, can be used to predict the space composite electric field distribution around HVDC transmission lines and their adjacent residences, which are of arbitrary material, shape, and size. It can provide guide for the optimal design of transmission line corridors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clubroot disease resistance has been introgressed from Brassica rapa into canola following different approaches including a B. napus × B. rapa interspecific cross; however, the details of this cross are not available. To extend our knowledge of this cross for the introgression of resistance to multiple pathotypes, we crossed a clubroot-resistant turnip with a susceptible canola and backcrossed the F1′s to canola. The backcross population was subjected to pedigree breeding with selection for clubroot resistance and canola-quality traits; selection for resistance to pathotype 3H and 3A was performed in the early and advanced generations, respectively. The advanced generation lines were also evaluated for resistance to 3H, 3A, 2B, and 5x, and for field resistance to clubroot, and agronomic and seed quality traits. Following this, we developed canola lines carrying resistance to multiple pathotypes and nuclear DNA content similar to B. napus. Resistance to 3H showed a weak correlation with other pathotypes whereas resistance to 3A showed a strong positive correlation with 5x indicating that resistance to these pathotypes was under a similar genetic control. Thus, the results demonstrate that resistance to multiple pathotypes can be introgressed from a turnip into a canola even when selection for resistance to single pathotype is performed in early generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study examines the reciprocal relations between spatial skills and oral counting. • Reciprocal relations occur only in the first year of kindergarten. • Reciprocal relations are found only in the counting range task and the counting backward task. Despite the robust findings indicating the positive role of spatial skills in a variety of mathematics skills (e.g., calculation), no empirical evidence has been provided concerning the longitudinal reciprocal relations between spatial skills and oral counting – perhaps the earliest form of symbolic representation. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the reciprocal longitudinal relations between spatial skills and three types of counting sequence knowledge (counting range, counting forward, and counting backward), which were measured at three time points between ages 3 to 4 years in a group of 109 young Hong Kong children. A series of family background and domain-general variables (i.e., family SES, vocabulary knowledge and behavioral regulation) were measured as covariates. Results from the cross-lagged panel analyses showed a reciprocal relationship between the children's counting sequence knowledge and their spatial skills, but this relationship only occurred between Time 2 (i.e., fall semester in the first year of kindergarten) and Time 3 (i.e., spring semester in the first year of kindergarten) and not between Time 1 (i.e., end of the nursery year) and Time 2. Further analyses showed that this pattern of results was task dependent. Reciprocal relations were found only in the counting range task and the counting backward task; no reciprocal relationship was found between spatial skills and the counting forward task. The findings reveal the developmental reciprocal link between spatial skills and early mathematics competency (i.e., the production of counting lists) and further highlight that this link varies according to children's conceptual levels of counting knowledge. Implications for classroom practices and teaching strategies are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Altered metabolic composition in bile from biliopancreatic malignancies can be used to differentiate malignant from benign disease. • The metabolic changes associated with biliopancreatic malignancies occurred mainly in lipid metabolites, among which fatty acid metabolism was most significantly altered. • A combined model for biliary tract cancer based on the fatty acid indexes in this study improved the diagnostic performance of existing serum tumor markers. • Different fatty acid metabolic profiles may contribute to the prognostic assessment of patients with biliopancreatic malignancies. Due to the difficulty of pathological sampling, the clinical differentiation between benign and malignant biliopancreatic diseases remains challenging. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is used to investigate biliary diseases, enabling the collection of bile. This study assessed potential metabolic alterations in biliopancreatic malignancies by exploring changes in the bile metabolome and the diagnostic potential of bile metabolome analysis. A total of 264 bile samples were collected from patients who were divided into a discovery cohort (n = 85) and a validation cohort (n = 179). Untargeted metabolomic analysis was used in the discovery cohort, while targeted metabolomic analysis was used in the validation cohort for further investigation of the differentially abundant metabolites. The untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that the metabolic changes associated with biliopancreatic malignancies occurred mainly in lipid metabolites, among which fatty acid metabolism was most significantly altered, and differentially abundant metabolites identified in the discovery cohort were mainly enriched in unsaturated fatty acid synthesis and linolenic acid synthesis pathways. Analysis of free fatty acid (FFA) metabolism in the validation cohort revealed that the FFA levels and related indicators verified the abnormal fatty acid metabolism associated with biliopancreatic malignancies. The combined model for biliopancreatic malignancies based on the fatty acid indexes and clinical test results improved the diagnostic performance of current clinical level. Then, we used machine learning to define three different FFA metabolic clusters of biliopancreatic malignancies, and survival analysis showed significant differences in prognostic outcomes among the three clusters. This study found metabolic alterations in biliopancreatic malignancies based on bile samples, which may provide new insights for the clinical diagnosis and prognostic assessment of biliopancreatic malignancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights In this article, the axial crushing behavior of CoFeSiB amorphous alloy fiber reinforced epoxy composites (AAFRCs) with different fiber volume fractions (30%, 40%, 50%, and 60%), fiber orientations (0°, 15°, and 30°), and fiber shapes (straight and sinusoidal) were investigated under compression condition. The results show that energy absorption (EA) and crush force efficiency (CFE) of the composites show a tendency to increase and then decrease with the increase of fiber volume fractions. The appropriate increase in fiber orientation can improve the EA and the CFE of the composites. The EA of reinforced composites with sinusoidal fiber is 66% higher than that of the ones with straight fiber. Three damage modes were identified by combining the damage process images corresponding to the compressive load–displacement curves and the morphologies of the crushed composites. The EA mechanism of the new composites was analyzed by observing the damage process of the AAFRCs. A novel CoFeSiB amorphous alloy fiber reinforced epoxy composites. The increase in fiber orientation improves the energy absorption and the crush force efficiency of the composites. The energy absorption of reinforced composites with sinusoidal fiber is higher than that of the composites with straight fiber. Three damage modes were identified: compression damage, axial bending and transverse shear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Research has established the link between morphological awareness and reading comprehension. However, the theoretical mechanisms underlying the association remain unclear. This study examined the direct and indirect effects of morphological awareness on reading comprehension in L1 Chinese and L2 English, with a sample of Chinese children who speak English as a second language (ESL). We tested theoretically driven predictions regarding the ways in which morphological awareness might impact reading comprehension. Methods: One hundred and fifty‐six children in Grades 3 and 4 completed Chinese and English measures of morphological awareness (English: derivational awareness; Chinese: compound awareness), expressive vocabulary, word reading and reading comprehension, in addition to age, working memory and the other language's word definitions as control measures. Results: For both languages, analyses showed that morphological awareness had significant direct effects on both English and Chinese reading comprehension above and beyond mediators and control variables. In addition, morphological awareness had significant indirect effects on reading comprehension mediated by word reading (indirect path 1) as well as vocabulary and word reading in sequence (indirect path 2) after taking control variables into account. Vocabulary did not emerge as a mediator for either the English or the Chinese models. Conclusions: The results underscore the importance of morphology for reading comprehension and reveal the potential mechanisms that underpin their relations in L1 Chinese and L2 English. Our findings further specify the role of morphology in the reading systems framework and highlight the value of incorporating morphology into reading instruction for Chinese ESL children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In standard operating conditions, a floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) suffers from the combined action of nonlinear waves and wind. It is important to explore the effect of higher-order hydrodynamic loads induced by the nonlinear waves on its motion response. In this work, a fully coupled aero-hydrodynamic analysis method for FOWT is developed. The hydrodynamic part is based on the nonlinear potential flow theory and the perturbation approach, using a higher-order boundary element method in the time domain. Blade element momentum theory is applied to evaluate the aerodynamic load on the turbine rotor. The mooring system is modelled by the catenary theory. The developed method is verified against the published data of the NREL's 5-MW baseline wind turbine supported by the DeepCwind semi-submersible platform. The verifications are conducted stepwise in the following ways, including hydrodynamic wave excitation load, free-decay response, the load-displacement relationship of the mooring line, the steady-state response of the wind turbine, and fully coupled aero-hydrodynamic interaction. It is found that the nonlinear effect mainly influences the surge motion. The coupled configuration has little effect on the linear wave force and platform displacement but notably impacts the nonlinear wave force and displacement. The FOWT motion is found to be critical in changing the wave field, the maximum wave elevation position around the platform, and the nonlinear wave force acting on the floating platform. The results illustrate that the traditional indirect time-domain method using the Quadratic Transfer Function (QTF) based on assumed response cannot appropriately evaluate the nonlinear wave force of a FOWT in coupled motions. The results also reveal that nonlinear wave hydrodynamics is necessary to understand the motion response of a fully coupled FOWT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dot enumeration is the basic mathematics competency in young children and a significant indicator of later mathematics achievement. Aim: The present study focused on (1) how children's dot enumeration ability changed as they progressed from late kindergarten years (K3) to the second year of primary school in Hong Kong (P2), and (2) the extent to which such changes are associated with students' mathematics outcomes assessed at the fourth grade, including standardized mathematics achievement, whole number magnitude understanding, and rational number concept. Sample(s): Two hundred and eleven Hong Kong kindergarteners were recruited. Methods: The participants' dot enumeration was assessed from K3 to P2. Their mathematics outcomes were assessed at P4, including standardized mathematics achievement, whole number magnitude understanding, and rational number concept. Results: The changes in their dot enumeration speed reflected a linear growth pattern. Further, both the initial level and growth rate of dot enumeration predicted standardized mathematics achievement and whole number magnitude understanding 2 years later while only the latter predicted rational number concept. Conclusions: The results indicate the importance of focusing on children's growth in a specific mathematics skill, in addition to their status at one single time point. Practical implications are discussed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) has been an emerging porcine virus spread around the world. The conserved DNA sequence of PCV3 enabled good performance in molecular biological assays. Result: In this study, we developed a real-time fluorescence PCR assay for the detection of PCV3. The conserved region within Capsid genome of PCV3 was selected for the design of primer pairs and probes. After optimizing, a primer pair and probe was screened, providing high sensitivity (10 copies/μL) and specificity (no cross reaction with other porcine viruses or common bacterium). In addition, this method was applied in the detection of 110 clinical samples, and the performance was compared with other previously reported PCR and real-time PCR methods. This method provided higher detection rate. Conclusion: A real-time fluorescence PCR assay has been developed for the detection of PCV3, with high sensitivity and specificity, exhibiting good performance in detecting clinical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have examined the predictive significance of the level of phonemic awareness in L2 spelling, but have left the role of phonemic awareness growth relatively unexplored. The aims of the present study were to examine (1) the growth trajectory of phonemic awareness in the kindergarten years; and (2) the unique contribution of initial levels and growth of phonemic awareness in L2 spelling, with other important cognitive-linguistic predictors statistically controlled. One hundred and forty-one Chinese ESL children were followed for one year during which their phonemic awareness was assessed four times, at three-monthly intervals. Spelling was assessed at Time 5, which was 12 months after the beginning of the study. Non-linear growth of phonemic awareness was observed. With age, non-verbal intelligence, letter name knowledge, vocabulary knowledge, syntactic awareness, word reading statistically controlled, both the initial levels and growth of phonemic awareness predicted L2 spelling at T5. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corona discharge will occur on high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission lines with the increase in voltage level, accompanied by audible noise, radio interference, and other phenomena. Audible noise has a serious negative impact on the lives and health of the residents around transmission lines. Therefore, it is very important to detect and study audible noise for the optimal design of transmission lines. However, the existing audible noise detection method is the direct detection method, which is vulnerable to the background noises. It is difficult to obtain the accurate measurement values in complex outdoor environment. Based on the relationship between audible noise and corona current, this article presents a method to obtain the A sound level of audible noise indirectly by measuring the corona current, which is called the indirect detection method of audible noise. The validity and accuracy of the proposed method are verified by the experiments of outdoor corona cage and actual HVDC transmission line segment. The proposed method provides a new way to solve the problems of direct detection of audible noise and can complement the existing method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emerging porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) has been reported in Chinese swine herds since 2017. We performed a nationwide investigation on the prevalence of PCV3 in pig breeding farms and slaughterhouses in China. A total of 4,040 tonsil samples were collected from 89 farms in 25 provinces, and 1,419 lymph node samples were collected from 50 slaughterhouses in 27 provinces. The PCR results showed that in pig breeding farms, the positive rate was 41.6% (37/89) at the farm level and 5.0% (201/4040) at the individual level. In the slaughterhouses, the positive rate was 62.0% (31/50) at the farm level and 8.0% (114/1419) at the individual level. The PCR‐positive samples were further sequenced, and 19 new PCV3 isolates were identified. The complete genomes of the 19 virus isolates showed 97.4%–99.7% nucleotide identity with other PCV3 isolates. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the 19 isolates were divided into PCV3a and PCV3b genotype clusters based on the PCV3 complete genome sequences. This study indicated that PCV3 has spread extensively in both pig breeding farms and slaughterhouses. The positive rate of PCV3 was higher in eastern China compared to other regions in China. Furthermore, this study will help us understand the prevalence and genetic variation of PCV3 in Chinese swine herds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overhead lines are important parts of distribution networks at present. Assessment and prediction of their health status is of great significance to ensure the reliable operation of distribution network. This paper presents a method for assessing and predicting the health status of overhead lines based on health index (HI). First, the key features set of overhead lines including ontological and nonontological factors is determined. Then, a calculation method for evaluating HI based on analytic hierarchy process and technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution is proposed. Subsequently, the health assessment results of the actual 110 and 10 kV overhead lines located in China show that the proposed method could reflect the actual situation of overhead lines well. Finally, based on the proposed method, this paper takes two areas of China, Beijing and Nanjing, which have different climatic conditions, as research objects, and studies the influence of natural factors on the health status of overhead lines, respectively. Based on the analysis results, the health statuses of the overhead lines in the two regions are predicted. The research results of this paper can provide guidance for the operation and maintenance of overhead lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on carious lesions of human deciduous teeth. Ten extracted deciduous incisors with caries were collected and treated with SDF. After the treatment, the teeth were sectioned through the center of the carious lesion. The extent of sliver precipitation was examined using quantitative backscattered electron scanning electron microscopy (qBSE-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The qBSE-SEM images revealed that the silver particles could penetrate through the pellicle complex, along with the rod sheaths into the demineralized enamel rods and the dentinal tubules, and form silver-enriched barriers surrounding the carious lesions at depths up to 2,490.2 μm (mean 744.7 ± 448.7 μm) within the dentinal tubules of the carious lesions, but less likely in the sound enamel. The EDX spectrum analysis revealed that carbon, oxygen, phosphorus, chlorine, silver, and calcium were the main elements detected in the lesions treated with SDF. Additionally, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, silicon, zinc, sulfur, and fluorine were detected as the minor elements within the SDF precipitation "zone." The micro-CT analysis further showed that in the deep cavitated lesions, the silver precipitation could be observed in the pulp chamber. These findings provide new evidence defining the SDF mode of action for arresting caries and suggest that the application of a highly concentrated SDF solution on deciduous teeth should be used with caution for various carious lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to isolate the rumen-derived bacteria with the ability to degrade free gossypol (FG), and to evaluate the probiotic potential in vitro for ensuring safe utilization. Methods: The strains were anaerobically isolated from fresh rumen fluid of sheep with long-term fed cottonseed meal (CSM) with the screening agar medium containing gossypol as the sole carbon source. Afterwards, the isolated strain incubated with CSM was subjected to the determination of the FG degradation and in vitro evaluation of probiotic characteristics. Results: The target strain labeled Lact. mucosae LLK-XR1 [Accession number: OQ652016.1] was obtained, and its growth on MRS Liquid medium exhibited degradation efficiency of FG up to 69.5% which was significantly greater than its growth on Man-Rogosa-Sharpe medium with glucose free for 24 h (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, LLK-XR1 showed 40.652% degradation rate of FG for unautoclaved, non-pulverized, and no additional nutrients supplementation CSM. Furthermore, LLK-XR1 presented good survivability at pH 3.0 (above 88.6%), and 0.3% bile (78.5%). LLK-XR1 showed sensitivity to broad-spectrum antibiotics except Sulfamethoxazole, Ciprofloxacin and Gentamycin and significantly inhibited E. coli CICC 10,899, Staph. aureus CICC 21,600, and Salmonella. Typhimurium CICC 21,483. LLK-XR1 demonstrated good cell surface hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation ability. Conclusions: Taken together, this study for the first time noted that rumen-originated Lact. mucosae LLK-XR1 with probiotic properties exhibited substantial FG degradation capacity when it was applied to the solid-state fermentation of CSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A promising concept of floating offshore overhead power transmission system (FOPTS), in which the power transmission tower is installed on a TLP-type floating foundation, is investigated experimentally and numerically to study its feasibility. A numerical method is proposed in which the potential flow theory is used to evaluate the floating foundation hydrodynamics. The lumped-parameter method with a wake oscillator model is applied to the aerodynamic modelling of the overhead in order to determine the wind-induced motion and the corresponding internal force of the conductors. Multi-body simulations are performed in Simscape® by coupling the floating foundation hydrodynamics and the conductor aerodynamics. Wind-tunnel experiments on a simplified FOPTS model are carried out to study the coupled motion of the TLP tower and the overhead conductor. The proposed numerical method is validated by comparison of the conductor tension and motion to the experiment. Numerical simulations have been performed under realistic offshore environments based on the meteorological data of the Sea of Japan. Wind-wave misalignment effects on the structure of the FOPTS are investigated, and the safety of the conductors, the mooring lines, and the sea navigation are discussed. • Numerical and experimental studies of an innovative floating offshore overhead power transmission system are presented. • A numerical model is developed and validated against a wind tunnel experiment. • Navigation and mooring safety are evaluated to ensure the system's feasibility. • The stability behavior of the conductor of FOPTS is shown to be acceptable under real offshore environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corona current is an important parameter to characterise the corona discharge on high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission lines. The spectral components of corona current are closely related to a variety of corona effects, such as audible noise. It is of great significance to study the frequency‐domain characteristics of corona current. Here, the relationship between DC component and spectral components of corona current on HVDC transmission lines in the band of 2–20 kHz was analysed. First, a lot of corona current data were measured in two HVDC experiment bases. Then, the expression representing the correlation between DC component and spectral components of corona current within 2–20 kHz was established with the maximum surface nominal electric field intensity of conductor as an intermediate variable. Finally, the correctness and universality of the relationship found were verified. The research results here not only reveal the characteristics of corona discharge but can also provide a new way for obtaining the spectral components of corona current in 2–20 kHz with its DC component, and can lay the foundation to provide a new way to get audible noise indirectly based on the DC component of corona current in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The tribological properties of hybrid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/aramid fibers 1414 (Kevlar) fabric self-lubricating composite under different conditions was studied. To improve tribological properties and the bonding performance of PTFE, the hybrid Kevlar/PTFE fabrics were treated by sodium-naphthalene complex liquid. PTFE/Kevlar fabric composite was prepared by phenolic-epoxy (6:4) resin. Tribological properties of the composite, friction coefficient and wear amount, were analyzed using varying loads and speeds on a friction and wear testing machine. Worn surface morphology and transfer film were observed by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the coefficient of friction decreased with the decrease of load and the increase of rotating speed. In addition, the composites with higher PTFE content showed better lubricating behavior. The friction coefficient of the composites reinforced by modified fabrics were more stable and the PTFE transfer film remains more complete. Highlights • The hybrid PTFE/Kevlar fabric self-lubricating composites were prepared. • The PTFE surface was carbonized by the treatment, while, Physical properties of Kevlar were not affected. • The surface treatment improves the friction coefficient stability and the PTFE transfer film completeness. • Friction coefficient and the amount of wear increases as the speed increases, however, the contrary is the case with increases of the load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Word reading and linguistic comprehension skills are two crucial components in reading comprehension, according to the Simple View of Reading (SVR). Some researchers have posited that a third component should be involved in reading and understanding texts, namely executive function (EF) skills. Aim: This study was novel in two ways. Not only did we tested EF skills as a predictor of reading comprehension in a non‐alphabetic language (i.e., Chinese) to extend the theoretical model of SVR, we also examined reading comprehension further in kindergarten children (age 5) in Hong Kong, in the attempt to reveal possible early precursors of reading comprehension. Sample(s): A group of 170 K3 kindergarteners was recruited in Hong Kong. Methods: Children's word reading was assessed. Their linguistic comprehension was assessed with phonological awareness, verbal short‐term memory, and vocabulary knowledge. Using a structured observation task, Head‐Toes‐Knees‐Shoulders (HTKS), we measured their composite scores for EF skills. Results: Head‐Toes‐Knees‐Shoulders performance predicted unique variance in children's Chinese reading comprehension concurrently beyond word reading and a set of linguistic comprehension skills. Conclusions: The results highlight the important role of EF skills in beginning readers' reading comprehension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A region-decomposition strategy is developed to compute the free-surface Green’s function. • The numerical code is written in a multi-level hierarchical structure using the modern Fortran. • General-shaped geometries and two complex-shaped wind turbine floaters have been studied. • Results show that the FinGreen3D can predict wave loads as accurate as analytical methods. • The numerical software package is publicly released as an open source tool on GitHub. Abstract The booming developments of coastal/offshore renewable energies in recent years call for a powerful numerical code, ideally open-source packaged, to accelerate the researches in the spotlight. This paper presents such an efficient software package for evaluating the performance of floating renewable energy systems in the coastal and offshore regions. It aims to contribute an open-source effort in numerical simulations for ocean energy converters. Though computation of the free-surface effect in moderate depth region is extremely troublesome due to the singularities, the software package proposed in the present paper gives a satisfactory solution to keep the balance of accuracy and efficiency. In the present paper, the interface and structure of the package are introduced in detail so as to be well understood by the reader. Benchmark tests for various types of converters have confirmed the accuracy and efficiency of the package which can be incorporated easily with a frequency domain solver for efficient analysis. By contributing as one of the pioneer works in the open-source effort of evaluating the moderate-depth free-surface Green’s function, with its advantages of a reliable accuracy and a relatively low cost, the authors are hoping that the publication of the present software package will promote the continuous researches in developing robust and reliable coastal and offshore renewable energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior studies on fraction magnitude understanding focused mainly on students with relatively sufficient formal instruction on fractions whose fraction magnitude understanding is relatively mature. Aim: This study fills a research gap by investigating fraction magnitude understanding in the early stages of fraction instruction. It extends previous findings to children with limited and primary formal fraction instruction. Sample(s): Thirty‐five fourth graders with limited fraction instruction and forty fourth graders with primary fraction instruction were recruited from a Chinese primary school. Methods: Children's fraction magnitude understanding was assessed with a fraction number line estimation task. Approximate number system (ANS) acuity was assessed with a dot discrimination task. Whole number knowledge was assessed with a whole number line estimation task. General reading and mathematics achievements were collected concurrently and 1 year later. Results: In children with limited fraction instruction, fraction representation was linear and fraction magnitude understanding was concurrently related to both ANS and whole number knowledge. In children with primary fraction instruction, fraction magnitude understanding appeared to (marginally) significantly predict general mathematics achievement 1 year later. Conclusions: Fraction magnitude understanding emerged early during formal instruction of fractions. ANS and whole number knowledge were related to fraction magnitude understanding when children first began to learn about fractions in school. The predictive value of fraction magnitude understanding is likely constrained by its sophistication level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we prepared the nanoparticle drug carrier system between nanoparticles — chitosan and Epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) for breast cancer cell inhibiting application. For this drug carrier system, chitosan acts as a carrier and EGCG as a drug. Which were systematically characterized and thoroughly evaluated in terms of their inhibition rate and biocompatibility. We also did a cell scratch test and the result indicated that the chitosan-EGCG nanoparticles have inhibitory effect on the growth of breast cancer cells. The inhibition rate could reach up to 21.91%. This work revealed that the modification of nanoparticles paved a way for specific biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the spectral characteristics of corona current is of great significance for optimizing the design of transmission lines. In this paper, a great number of corona current waveforms were measured on conductors in a large outdoor corona cage and actual UHVDC test transmission lines. First, a linear relationship with proportionality coefficient of approximately 1 between the spectrum components of corona current in the range of 5–20 kHz was found. Second, based on the similarity of the correlations between the spectrum components, a universal linear expression representing the correlation between the spectrum components of corona current under different conditions was obtained through data fitting. Finally, with the obtained expression, the spectrum components of the corona current at frequencies in the range of 5–20 kHz were estimated according to the spectrum component at 5 kHz, and then measured on the high altitude UHVDC test line segment located in Tibet, China. By comparing the estimated values with the measured ones, the validity and accuracy of the self-correlation expression between spectrum components was verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Audible noise is closely related to the frequency‐domain characteristics of corona current. Based on the largest ultra‐high‐voltage (UHV) DC corona cage in the world and an actual UHV DC transmission line, a large amount of audible noise and corona current were measured simultaneously here. According to the statistical analysis of the experimental data, the correlation relationship between the frequency‐domain characteristics of corona current and audible noise was obtained, and the causes of correlation rule were also analysed. Meanwhile, the correlation formula between the spectrum characteristics of corona current and A‐weighted sound level of audible noise was discovered. The experimental results showed that the mathematical correlation formula discovered has good universality. The obtained results can provide theory and experimental foundation for deeply research on the essential connection between corona current and audible noise, which makes it possible to explore the causes of audible noise's change law from the perspective of 'sound source' and may provide a new method for audible noise estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have not distinguished different types of characters when examining how phonological and semantic-related skills are related to Chinese reading. In this study, Chinese characters were categorized into semantic-phonetic compound and noncompound characters. In the category of semantic-phonetic compound characters, two subtypes were subdivided into regular and irregular compound characters according to the reliability of phonetic radicals. Hong Kong second graders were tested on character reading, phonological awareness and three levels of semantic-related skills (semantic radical awareness, morphological awareness and vocabulary knowledge). Students' age and nonverbal IQ were controlled. The results revealed that all of the three levels of semantic-related skills were significant predictors of reading all types of characters. In contrast, phonological awareness was important only for reading two types of characters, i.e., noncompound characters and regular compound characters. The results have implications for theories of reading concerning the relative roles of phonological and semantic-related skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corona inception voltage is of great significance for the design of ultra‐high‐voltage direct current transmission lines. In this study, based on the change rule of frequency‐domain characteristics of corona current, a new method for calculating corona inception voltage is proposed. First, corona current waveforms are collected through experiments and the range of measuring voltages is determined according to the frequency spectrum characteristics of corona current. Then, the curves representing the relationship between the change rate of corona current octave power and the voltage at different centre frequencies (6–20 kHz) are obtained through least‐square fitting. The voltage at which the fitted curve reaches the first peak value with the rise of voltage is identified as corona inception voltage. Finally, with the proposed method, the corona inception voltage for a six bundled conductor system in the biggest outdoor corona cage of the world is obtained. Combined with the experimental results of A‐weighted sound level of audible noise, the comparisons between the obtained corona inception voltage and that calculated with I/U−U curve fitting method, I−U curve fitting method and an audible noise‐based method prove that the proposed method is reasonable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study examined the developmental trajectory of English expressive vocabulary and its relationship to English word reading in a sample of 141 Hong Kong children learning English as a second language (ESL). The children were observed six times at 3-month intervals over 15 months, from the spring of their second year of kindergarten (K2) to the end of their third year (K3). The development of English expressive vocabulary was nonlinear during the assessment period. With age, nonverbal IQ, English phonological awareness, letter knowledge and Chinese character reading controlled, the initial level of expressive vocabulary predicted English word reading 15 months later. More importantly, the expressive vocabulary growth rate during the 15 months also predicted English word reading. Our findings underscore the predictive power of the growth trajectory of expressive vocabulary in Hong Kong ESL children. Practical implications of the study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corona current is the key parameter to characterize the corona discharge. Researches on the spectrum characteristics of corona current and the relationships between corona effects are of great significance on optimization design of Ultra High-Voltage Direct Current (UHVDC) transmission line. Basing on the corona current experimental data measured on an actual UHVDC test line, the spectrum characteristics and variation regularity of corona current within the spectrum band of 0.15–4 MHz were studied, and the correlation between energy spectrum of corona current and Radio Interference (RI) under the same conditions was also analyzed in this paper. It was found that variation regularity of logarithmic energy spectrum of corona current was remarkably similar to that of RI within 0.15–4 MHz. Basing on the conclusions above, a formula for estimating the logarithmic energy spectrum of corona current with the maximum nominal surface electric field strength of line was proposed, and the key parameters in the formula were established for a particular typed conductor which was 6-bundled. Those results not only can improve the theoretical understanding of the relationships between corona current and RI, but also provide a new method for estimating the spectrum characteristics of corona current. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A diffraction-radiation analysis is usually required when the hydrodynamic interactions between structural members occur in short waves. For bracings or small cylindrical members, which play important roles in the vicinity of the natural frequency of a floating platform, special care should be taken into account for the effect of viscous damping. Two hybrid panel-stick models are, therefore, developed, through the combination of the standard diffraction-radiation method and the Morison's formulae, considering the effect of small members differently. The fluid velocity is obtained directly by the panel model. The viscous fluid force is calculated for individual members by the stick model. A semi-submersible type platform with a number of fine cylindrical structures, which is designed as a floating foundation for multiple wind turbines, is analyzed as a numerical example. The results show that viscous force has significant influence on the hydrodynamic behavior of the floating body and can successfully be considered by the proposed hybrid models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Experimentally characterize the wettability of hybrid Kevlar/PTFE fabrics from the microscale(fiber) to the macroscale(fabric), via the mesoscale(tow). • A revised Cassie-Baxter model accounting for the air, PTFE and Kevlar was established, linking the 3 scales together. • The wetting properties of fabrics were predicted from the water contact angles at lower scales by the revised Cassie-Baxter model. Hybrid PTFE/Kevlar fabric reinforced epoxy composites have widely been used as structural self-lubricating liners. To achieve the best working performance, the Kevlar rich side has to be well impregnated (good wettability), whereas the PTFE rich side must remain dry at the same time. Consequently, it is essential to study the wetting properties of both sides from the microscale (fibre) to the macroscale (fabric) via the mesoscale (tow). After characterization of the wetting properties of hybrid PTFE/Kevlar fabrics at each scale, a revised Cassie-Baxter model was developed, linking the three scales and taking into account the three phases, i.e. air, PTFE and Kevlar. Water contact angles served to characterize the wetting properties at every scale and to validate the predictions. This study aims at providing a better insight into the hierarchical wetting of fibrous materials, both from experimental and theoretical perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Associated Proton beam Experiment Platform (APEP) beam line that is under construction at the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS) linear accelerator (linac) will begin commissioning in 2022, eventually providing nearly 4800 h of proton beam time every year. It will be the first proton irradiation facility to use naturally-stripped protons – H − beams from the linac are stripped by the residual gas in the beampipe. A number of APEP applications have been proposed, including proton irradiation experiments. We completed the design of the beam line – including proton beam transport, collimation, energy degradation, and shielding – based on the requirements developed in test experiments. Both the proton beam spot sizes and the proton energy can be adjusted continuously across a broad range. The background and residual radiation dose rates around the beam line are maintained at a low level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study examined the extent to which morphological awareness in Chinese uniquely predicted counting ability in a Hong Kong sample. With age, nonverbal intelligence, visual–spatial skills, and phonological awareness being controlled, morphological awareness at the second year of kindergarten (K2) uniquely predicted children's abilities in counting sequence and counting forward at the third year of kindergarten (K3). Phonological awareness and visual–spatial skills at K2 explained unique variance in the ability of counting backward but not in the counting sequence or counting forward at K3. These findings contribute to our understanding of the association between metalinguistic skills and the development of numerical ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimum design method, which is based on the interruption model of molded case circuit breaker (MCCB), is proposed for the cam design structure. First, it constructs a multifield coupled calculation model that enables us to simulate the interruption process of MCCB. The model carries out second development of Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) and constructs a set of differential equations describing the coupling of air blast process with complex mechanical movement, electric circuit, magnetic field, and dynamic arc model. With this model, investigations on the cam design structure’s lock effect during the interruption process of an actual MCCB are carried out. According to the fact that the movable conductor could not be locked under some interruption currents, an optimum design is made for its cam design structure. Simulation results show that after optimization, the cam design structure can prevent the movable conductor from returning when the short-circuit current is no less than 15 kA, and observably enhance the interruption performance of MCCB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The one-dimensional momentum theory is essential for understating the physical mechanism behind the phenomena of the DAWT (Diffuser-Augmented Wind Turbines). The present work tries to extend the existing GADT (Generalized Actuator Disc Theory) that proposed by Jamieson (2008). Firstly, the GADT is modified to include an effective diffuser efficiency, which is affected by the thrust loading or axial induction. Secondly, Glauert corrections to the DAWT system in the turbulent wake state are proposed, modelled by a linear and a quadratic approximation, respectively. Finally, for prediction of the axial velocity profile at rotor plane bearing various thrust loadings, an empirical model is established, which can be further used to predict the diffuser axial induction. In addition, the ‘cut-off point’ in Glauert correction and the ‘critical thrust loading’ in axial velocity profile prediction are newly defined to assist the analysis. All the above formulations have been compared and validated with Jamieson's results and Hansen's CFD data, justifying the effectiveness of the present model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axisymmetric geometries, such as cylindrical elements, are widely used in offshore structures. However, the presence of sharp edges in these geometries introduces challenges in numerical simulations due to singularities. To address this issue, one possible solution is to represent the singularities using analytic eigenfunctions. This approach can provide insights into the essence of the problem and has successfully applied to two-dimensional (2D) corner problems. However, finding appropriate eigenfunctions for the three-dimensional (3D) edges remains an open challenge. This paper proposes a semi-analytic scheme for 3D axisymmetric problems utilizing a scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM). A dimensional reduction is introduced to the 3D Laplace equation, and a 3D edge is handled on the generatrix plane while governed by a complicated equation. The algorithm for resolving the SBFEM fundamental space is improved, and the singularities are approximated using a fractional-order basis. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through its application to solve the radiation problem of a heaving cylinder. The method accurately captures the singular velocity field at the edge tip, ensuring that the boundary condition on the body surface is strictly satisfied in the neighborhood of the singularity. Accuracy of the mean drift force is ensured by performing direct pressure integrations over the body surface using a near-field formulation, which becomes as accurate as the middle-field formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) has been presented as a superior method for the detection of microorganisms in body fluid samples (e.g., blood, saliva, pus, etc.) However, the performance of MALDI-TOF MS in routine identification of caries-related Lactobacillus isolates from saliva of adult patients with caries has not been determined. In the present study, we introduced a new MALDI-TOF MS system for identification of lactobacilli. Saliva samples were collected from 120 subjects with caries. Bacteria were isolated and cultured, and each isolate was identified by both 16S rRNA sequencing and MALDI-TOF MS. The identification results obtained by MALDI-TOF MS were concordant at the genus level with those of conventional 16S rRNA-based sequencing for 88.6% of lactobacilli (62/70) and 95.5% of non-lactobacilli (21/22). Up to 96 results could be obtained in parallel on a single MALDI target, suggesting that this is a reliable high-throughput approach for routine identification of lactobacilli. However, additional reference strains are necessary to increase the sensitivity and specificity of species-level identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have developed a microfluidic chip for colorimetric Cu2+ detection. In this chip, it is facile to do colorimetric Cu2+ detection based on gold nanoparticles. This method has a dynamic detection range from 0.75 to 50 µmol/L with only 20 µL solution including detection reagents and sample. The result can be readout by naked eye and photographed by digital cameras. With the help of image processing software, we could measure the RGB value and calculate the Blue/Red ratio for more accurate quantification. Tap water could be detected in this portable chip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ammonium citrate modified spent Lentinus edodes was investigated as a novel adsorbent for Pb(II) removal from aqueous solution. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that modification by ammonium citrate obviously changed the property of spent L. edodes that enhanced the adsorption capacity. In batch studies, pH, initial Pb(II) concentration and adsorbent dose were found to significantly affect Pb(II) removal by a two-level Plackett–Burman design. The effects of foreign substances (ion strength, inorganic ions (anions, cations) and surfactants) on Pb(II) removal were studied. The adsorption process was well described by the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption equilibrium data followed the Langmuir model and gave the maximum adsorption capacity of 59.17mg/g at 35°C. The adsorption mechanism was found to be dominated by ion exchange and electrostatic attraction on exterior, accompanying with the intraparticle diffusion transporting adsorbed Pb(II) from exterior to interior. The adsorbent could be regenerated by 0.1M HNO3, which led only a tiny decrease in adsorption capacity after three adsorption–desorption cycles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Development of new tools catalyzes progress in biochemical sciences [G.M. Whitesides, E. Ostuni, S. Takayama, X.Y. Jiang, D.E. Ingber, Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering 3 (2001) 335]. Recent advances in micro-/nano-technology have resulted in an explosion of the number of new tools available for biochemical sciences. We have used surface chemistry, nano-structures and microfluidics to create a set of tools applicable for problems ranging from molecular to cellular analysis. These tools will promote the understanding of fundamental problems in cell biology, development and neurobiology, and become useful for real-world applications such as molecular diagnostics, food analysis and environmental monitoring. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The interaction theory presented by Kagemoto and Yue (1986) significantly reduces the computational burden in the wave interaction problem of multiple surface-piercing bodies, particularly arrays of wave energy converters in recent years. Two essential operators of the theory are the so-called Diffraction Transfer Matrix and Radiation Characteristics. Many subsequent researchers (Goo and Yoshida, 1990; Flavià et al., 2018) have implemented the theory using the source distribution method in evaluating the two linear operators of a single unique geometry. However, nowadays, a great majority of boundary element method codes have been written by virtue of the hybrid source-dipole distribution method on account of its high accuracy. In this regard, the present work aims to introduce a full set of mathematical formulations, as well as a complete derivation process of evaluating the two operators based on the hybrid source-dipole distribution method. The proposed formulations are then applied to two benchmark geometries, as given by McNatt et al. (2015) and Flavià et al. (2018). Good agreement is found between the present results and those from the literature. Moreover, two alternative approaches to solve the diffraction problem have been compared to assess both their accuracy and efficiency. It is found that the two methods present similar levels of accuracy but very different computational burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the dynamics of an FWT (Floating Wind Turbine) is essential for its design and operation. Since a truss structure can reduce the wave load/resistance on the floating foundation, it becomes more popular in industrial applications. In this regard, knowing the effect of slender members of the truss structure on the motion response characteristics of such an FWT is vital. The present work develops a time-domain method for modeling the dynamics of a floating truss-structure wind turbine with multiple rotors on the deck of the platform. A hybrid panel-stick model is built up incorporating the potential flow theory to calculate the wave inertia force and a Morison strip method to calculate the wave drag force. A systematic methodology, and the corresponding efficient tool, have been developed to deal with the floating trussed structure consisting of a set of slender cylindrical members in arbitrary lengths, diameters, orientations, and locations. The Morison dynamic solver is incorporated into the time-domain solver for the FWT dynamics. The proposed model is validated against a model experiment of a semi-submersible FWT with a triangular-shaped truss-structured platform, which was carried out in RIAM (Research Institute for Applied Mechanics), Kyushu University. Good agreements between the simulation results and the experimental data confirm the validity of the developed method. Further numerical simulations are performed in a set of wind and wave conditions to investigate the effect of wave drag force on the FWT dynamics. It is found that without the fluid viscosity, resonant responses are excited in the platform motions at frequencies that are close to the natural frequencies of the FWT system. Via a comparison between the parked conditions and operating conditions of the FWT, it is found that in the presence of steady wind, the translational surge or sway motion is significantly excited at its resonance frequency. This may be attributed to the work done by the wind to the FWT, which enhances remarkably the total kinetic energy of the platform and consequently increases the translational surge or sway velocity of the platform at the equilibrium position. Applying a hybrid panel-stick model will be effective in reducing all these non-realistic large resonant responses. • A hybrid panel-stick method is systematically developed for a complex trussed-structure semisubmersible in the time domain. • The experimental test in the wave tank confirms the validity of the developed method and tools. • Numerical results show that the wave drag force can effectively suppress the unrealistic resonant response. • It is found that in steady wind, the translational surge or sway motion is significantly excited at its resonance frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NP-Sb/PANI composite electrode is developed by in-situ polymerization method. • PANI is coated on the surface of nanoporous Sb ligaments. • NP-Sb/PANI anode exhibits excellent cycling stability and rate capability. • Enhanced performance can be attributed to the porosity of NP-Sb and the PANI coating. ga1 Antimony (Sb), a typical anode material in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), undergoes sharp capacity fading due to large volume changes during electrochemical cycling. To solve this issue, recent research has focused on designing Sb with special morphologies or introducing another component as a buffer to generate Sb-based composites. In this study, the above two strategies were combined, focusing on a nanoporous Sb/polyaniline (NP-Sb/PANI) anode where PANI was directly coated on the surface of NP-Sb by in situ oxidative polymerization. This composite anode demonstrated enhanced performance, delivering an initial reversible capacity of 510 mAh g−1 and showed capacity retention of up to 82.4% after 250 cycles at a C-rate of C/2. The improved electrochemical performance is attributed to the synergetic effect of NP-Sb and conductive PANI. Specifically, the porosity in NP-Sb can accommodate the volume variation and facilitate electrolyte penetration into the electrodes, while the PANI coating can further buffer the volume expansion and improve the diffusion rate of sodium ions in the electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was conducted to obtain an appropriate addition strategy of magnesium oxide (MgO) for feedlot lambs and to elucidate how the combined addition of MgO and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO 3) influences the growth performance and carcass characteristics of feedlot lambs. Sixty male Dorper-Hu hybrid lambs (32.76 ± 0.85 kg) were randomly assigned to 20 pens (3 lambs per pen; 5 pens per treatment). Lambs received a corn-based total-mixed ration (TMR, 80:20 concentrate to forage) without supplementation (CON) or with the inclusion (dry matter basis) of 15 g/kg NaHCO 3 (SB), 2.5 g/kg MgO + 7.5 g/kg NaHCO 3 (MG1) or 5 g/kg MgO + 7.5 g/kg NaHCO 3 (MG2). Buffer addition effectively increased ruminal pH and water intake in feedlot lambs (P < 0.01). The MG2 group had lower dry matter intake (P ≤ 0.03), while the MG1 group showed higher average daily gain and lower feed-to-gain ratio than the other groups (P < 0.01). Compared to the CON and SB groups, MG1 and MG2 groups had greater total tract nutrient digestibility, except for the stage 1 of DM and ADF (P < 0.01). Adding MgO with NaHCO 3 improved total volatile fatty acids concentration (P < 0.01). Microbial community analysis revealed enhanced Prevotella abundance in both MG1 and MG2 groups (P = 0.04). Additionally, MG1 and MG2 groups also both exhibited greater serum antioxidant capacity compared to CON and SB groups (P ≤ 0.03). The MG1 group showed greater dressing percentage, and ribeye area than other groups (P < 0.01). Overall, the recommended supplementation strategy for the lambs' diet was 2.5 g/kg MgO + 7.5 g/kg NaHCO 3. The mixture of MgO and NaHCO 3 enhanced the total tract nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and serum antioxidant capacity in lambs, resulting in improved lamb growth and carcass performance. • MgO and NaHCO 3 supplementation could maintain a favorable rumen environment. • MgO and NaHCO 3 supplementation enhanced total tract nutrient digestibility and rumen fermentation. • MgO and NaHCO 3 supplementation improved serum antioxidant capacity and carcass fat deposition. • The appropriate addition strategy for feedlot lambs was 2.5 g/kg MgO + 7.5 g/kg NaHCO 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atogepant is an oral calcitonin gene–related peptide receptor antagonist approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. These analyses evaluated the proportions of clinical trial participants who experienced sustained responses to atogepant over 12 or 52 weeks of treatment. Methods: These were post hoc analyses of ADVANCE, a 12-week, double-blind, randomized trial of atogepant 10, 30, and 60 mg once daily vs. placebo for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine, and a separate open-label long-term safety (LTS) trial of atogepant 60 mg once daily over 52 weeks. The 60 mg dose of atogepant was used to detect safety issues. An initial response was defined as ≥50%, ≥75%, or 100% reduction from baseline in MMDs in month 1 for ADVANCE or quarter 1 for the LTS trial. The proportions of participants who continued to experience a response above each response-defining threshold through each subsequent month (for ADVANCE) or each quarter (for LTS) were calculated. Results: In ADVANCE, sustained response rates during months 2 and 3 varied with dose and were as follows: 70.8–81.1% following an initial ≥50% response, 47.3–61.9% following an initial ≥75% response, and 34.8–41.7% following an initial 100% response. Of those who experienced an initial ≥75% or 100% response during month 1, more than 79% continued to experience at least a 50% response during both months 2 and 3. During the LTS trial, sustained response rates through quarters 2, 3, and 4 were 84.7% following an initial ≥50% response, 72.6% following an initial ≥75% response, and 37.8% following an initial 100% response. Of those who experienced an initial ≥75% or 100% response during quarter 1, more than 90% continued to experience at least a 50% response through quarters 2, 3, and 4. Conclusion: Over 70% of participants who experienced an initial response with atogepant treatment had a sustained response with continued treatment. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03777059 (submitted: December 13, 2018); NCT03700320 (submitted: September 25, 2018). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by intense itch and other symptoms that negatively impact quality of life (QoL). This study evaluates the effect of upadacitinib (an oral selective Janus kinase inhibitor) monotherapy on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe AD over 16 weeks. Methods: This integrated analysis of the double-blind, placebo-controlled periods of phase 3 monotherapy clinical trials Measure Up 1 (NCT03569293) and Measure Up 2 (NCT03607422) assessed itch (Worst Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale [WP-NRS] and SCORing Atopic Dermatitis [SCORAD]), skin pain and symptom severity (AD Symptom Scale), symptom frequency (Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure), sleep (AD Impact Scale [ADerm-IS] and SCORAD), daily activities and emotional state (ADerm-IS), QoL (Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI] and Children's DLQI), mental health (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and patient impressions (Patient Global Impression of Severity, Patient Global Impression of Change, and Patient Global Impression of Treatment). Results: Data from 1683 patients (upadacitinib 15 mg, n = 557; upadacitinib 30 mg, n = 567; placebo, n = 559) were analyzed. A greater proportion of patients receiving upadacitinib versus placebo experienced improvements in itch (≥ 4-point improvement on WP-NRS) by week 1 (upadacitinib 15 mg, 11.2%; upadacitinib 30 mg, 17.7%; placebo, 0.5%; P < 0.001), with response rates sustained through week 16 (upadacitinib 15 mg, 47.1%; upadacitinib 30 mg, 59.8%; placebo, 10.4%; P < 0.001). Improvements were similar for PROs assessing skin pain/symptoms, sleep, daily activities, QoL, emotional state, mental health, and patient impressions of disease severity and treatment. Responses generally improved rapidly (within 1–2 weeks), increased through weeks 4–6, and were maintained through week 16. Conclusions: Once-daily oral upadacitinib monotherapy improved response rates across PROs compared with placebo. Upadacitinib therapy resulted in rapid, sustained improvements in PROs measuring symptom burden and QoL in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe AD. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers, NCT03569293 and NCT03607422. Plain Language Summary: Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is characterized by itchy, dry, inflamed skin. These symptoms often make it difficult for patients to get adequate sleep. Patients with atopic dermatitis may also experience anxiety, depression, reduced self-confidence, social isolation, disruption to daily activities like school and work, and decreased quality of life. Many atopic dermatitis symptoms, including itch and psychological impact, are difficult for doctors to assess. Thus, it is important to consider patients' descriptions of their symptoms and quality of life, particularly when assessing treatment benefit. Upadacitinib is an orally administered drug approved to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. We investigated how upadacitinib (15 mg or 30 mg) given once daily to adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in the Measure Up 1 and 2 clinical trials impacts their symptoms and quality of life over a 16-week period. We compared changes in patient-reported itch, pain, sleep, daily activities, emotional state, mental health, and overall quality of life among patients in the clinical trials who received upadacitinib with those in the same studies who received a dummy (placebo) treatment. Upadacitinib improved patient-reported symptoms and quality of life early in the clinical trials, often within the first 1–2 weeks. The extent of the improvements increased through weeks 4–6 of treatment and lasted through week 16. Patients who received upadacitinib reported greater improvements in symptoms and quality of life than did patients who received placebo. Upadacitinib treatment resulted in rapid and lasting improvements in the well-being of patients with atopic dermatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing and investigating metallic‐glass‐fiber‐reinforced epoxies is an important new attempt to present their potential to contribute to the aviation industry. In order to explore the energy absorption in novel CoFeSiB metallic‐glass‐fiber/epoxy resin composites, CoFeSiB/epoxy resin composite cylinders with different fiber volume fractions were prepared by a hot‐pressing method. The amorphism of the metal fibers was analyzed using x‐ray diffraction. The quasi‐static compression tests were performed on different fiber oriented samples with a diameter of 3.6 mm and a height of 7.2 mm. The sample with the fiber orientation [0°/90°] has a higher energy absorption capacity, compared to the one with the fiber orientation [0°/0°]. The dynamic‐ compression tests were performed on the [0°/0°] samples with a diameter of 3 mm and height of 6 mm at different air pressures. The compression fracture surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscope. Then the energy absorption mechanism of the composites was investigated. This study is of great significance for the energy absorption in amorphous metal fiber/epoxy composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]