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Abstract The olfactory system can generate unique sensory memories of various odorous molecules, guiding emotional and cognitive decisions. However, most existing electronic noses remain constrained to momentary concentration, failing to trigger specific memories for different smells. Here, we report an artificial olfactory memory system utilizing conductive metal-organic frameworks (Ce-HHTP) that integrates sensing and memory and exhibits short- and long-term memory responses to alcohols and aldehydes. Experiments and theoretical calculations show that distinct memories are derived from the specific combinations of Ce-HHTP with O atoms in different guest. An unmanned aircraft equipped with this system realized the sensory memories in established areas. Moreover, the fusion of portable detection boxes and wearable flexible electrodes demonstrated the immense potential in off-site pollution monitoring and health management. This work represents an artificial olfactory memory system with two specific sensory memories under simultaneous conditions, laying the foundation for bionic design with qualities of human olfactory memory.

Fly ash-based paste-filling mining can not only effectively control land subsidence and increase the coal recovery rate, but it also solves the problem of fly ash accumulation in coal-fired power plants. The release of ammonia from fly ash-based filling paste contaminates the air environment of the coal mine filling face, necessitating immediate remediation. This study proposes a new method of using ultrasound to promote the release of paste ammonia. Through the ultrasonic treatment of fly ash slurry, the ultrasonic time (A), ultrasonic power (B) and solid-liquid ratio (C) are used as investigation factors. The results show that the ammonia release rate increases first and then decreases with the increase of ultrasonic time, ultrasonic power and solid-liquid ratio, and reaches the maximum when the ultrasonic time, ultrasonic power and solid-liquid ratio are 30 min, 80 W and 1∶10, respectively. The response surface experiment is conducted on the basis of single factor test to establish a regression model. The optimal experimental parameters are determined by response surface optimization. The results show that the order of influencing factors is: A > B > C, AB > AC > BC. The optimum experimental parameters for ammonia removal are as follows: ultrasonic time is 32 min, ultrasonic power is 80 W, and solid-liquid ratio is 1∶7.7. Through verification, it is found that there is only a relative error of −1.6% between the measured value and the predicted value. The optimized experimental parameters are used to treat the fly ash to prepare the filling paste to determine the ammonia release amount. It is found that the ammonia release amount of the paste is reduced by 95.94%. The ammonia release rate increases by 84.02%, and the uniaxial compressive strength of the paste at 3 d and 28 d increases by 185.00% and 86.50%, respectively. The slump, bleeding rate and setting time are decreased, and the number of harmful pores in the paste is reduced, so that the porosity is decreased from 33.58% to 28.13%. It provides a new method for the ammonia release treatment of the fly ash-based filling paste.

Abstract Incorporating metal nanoparticles (MNPs) in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) demonstrated great potential in the field of photo‐/photothermal‐catalysis. However, the oriented design and optimization of the 3D nano‐architectures of MOF substrates to achieve high‐efficiency light harvesting remains a challenge. Herein, guided on theoretical simulation, a facile etching strategy was employed to fabricate a 3D orderly‐stacked‐MOF‐nanosheet‐structure (CASFZU‐1) with a high electric field energy‐density‐distribution; well‐dispersed MNPs were afterwards encapsulated onto the MOF support. The unique nanosheet structure improved the light absorbance over the broadband spectrum, thereby enhancing the plasmonic photothermal effects of the MNPs@CASFZU‐1 composites. Based on the plasmon‐driven photothermal conversion, the MNPs@CASFZU‐1 composites exhibited approximately twofold catalytic efficiency in the hydrogenation reaction and a lower temperature for the full conversion of carbon monoxide, compared to their bulk‐type composites. The surface‐plasmon‐driven photothermal effects can be exploited in innovative MNPs@MOF platforms for various applications.

The ‘Okitsu No. 58’ citrus variety is highly prone to fruit cracking, which jeopardizes yield and results in economic losses. In this study, we investigated the impacts of spraying 5 distinct concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 g/L) of chelated calcium (Ca) or silicon (Si) fertilizers at the young fruit stage (60-90 days after flowering, DAF) on fruit cracking and quality in the citrus variety ‘Okitsu No. 58’. The results showed either Ca or Si fertilizer treatments reduced fruit cracking. We found that all Ca and partial Si treatments (0.4 and 0.5 g/L) significantly promoted the accumulation of Ca content in the peel. Notably, Ca or Si treatments significantly reduced polygalacturonase (PG) activity and inhibited the production of water-soluble pectin (WSP) in the peel. Additionally, Ca or Si treatments elevated the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content of the peels. Changes in these parameters likely contributed to strengthening the durability of peel cell wall constituents, thus enhancing the fruit’s resistance to fruit cracking. Overall, except for the C3 (0.3 g/L of Ca), Ca or Si fertilizers contributed to fruit conventional quality, mainly in terms of higher soluble sugars (SS) and SS/TA (titratable acid). Therefore, our findings will provide a reference for the prevention and control of citrus fruit cracking and the development of new fertilizers.

The traditional articulated steering vehicles rely on the hydraulic steering system and segmented body structure to achieve vehicle steering. The folding steering process exhibits strong hysteresis, which reduces the steering maneuverability and also impacts the autonomous driving performance. This paper proposes a novel control method of folding steering based on differential-hydraulic frequency division cooperation for the redundant drive characteristic of distributed-drive articulated steering vehicles. The main contributions of this paper are as follows: 1) By introducing the speed term into the folding angle control, a position-velocity double closed-loop structure is employed to determine the steering demand torque and achieve the variable steering ratio and accurate control of the folding angle. 2) According to the frequency-domain characteristics of the hydraulic and differential steering systems, a first-order low-pass filtering algorithm is utilized to decompose the steering demand torque into high-frequency and low-frequency components. The high-frequency torque is borne by the differential system, while the low-frequency torque is borne by the hydraulic system, thereby addressing the challenge of cooperative control of multiple actuators. 3) An experimental platform for the distributed-drive articulated steering vehicle is constructed, and the credibility of the dynamic model is experimentally validated. 4) The manipulation and path-tracking performances of the proposed folding steering control method are analyzed. The results indicate that, compared to the hydraulic steering system, the average folding angle rise time and phase delay are reduced by 19.8% and 44.4%, respectively, significantly improving the follow-up performance of folding steering. Furthermore, the average lateral position error and heading angle error in path tracking control are reduced by 38.1% and 27.5%, respectively, which contribute to the electrification and intelligent development of articulated steering vehicles.

Abstract Heterogeneous reactions associated with porous solid films are ubiquitous and play an important role in both nature and industrial processes. However, due to the no-slip boundary condition in pressure-driven flows, the interfacial mass transfer between the porous solid surface and the environment is largely limited to slow molecular diffusion, which severely hinders the enhancement of heterogeneous reaction kinetics. Herein, we report a hierarchical-structure-accelerated interfacial dynamic strategy to improve interfacial gas transfer on hierarchical conductive metal-organic framework (c-MOF) films. Hierarchical c-MOF films are synthesized via the in-situ transformation of insulating MOF film precursors using π-conjugated ligands and comprise both a nanoporous shell and hollow inner voids. The introduction of hollow structures in the c-MOF films enables an increase of gas permeability, thus enhancing the motion velocity of gas molecules toward the c-MOF film surface, which is more than 8.0-fold higher than that of bulk-type film. The c-MOF film-based chemiresistive sensor exhibits a faster response towards ammonia than other reported chemiresistive ammonia sensors at room temperature and a response speed 10 times faster than that of the bulk-type film.

To mitigate freeze-thaw damage in tunnels located in high-altitude cold regions, insulation layers are implemented to prevent the freezing of surrounding rocks. Currently, the selection of laying methods lacks a solid scientific basis, with the merits and demerits of various techniques remaining insufficiently evaluated. This study seeks to establish a scientifically grounded equilibrium between the anti-freezing efficacy and the construction impact of tunnel insulation in cold regions through the optimization of insulation design via numerical calculations. First, the advantages and disadvantages of the four insulation layer laying methods were summarized. Then, a multilayer media heat transfer model that accounts for the latent heat of phase change was developed, grounded in solid heat transfer and porous media heat transfer theories, and corroborated by typical case studies. Finally, taking Duolong tunnel as a case study, the insulation effect of various laying methods at different positions of the tunnel was analyzed based on the finite element method. The results show that the unfavorable position of the four laying methods is at the inverted arch of the tunnel, and the unfavorable time point occurs when the temperature rises from below 0℃ to above 0℃. Among the four laying methods, off-wall laying exhibits the superior insulation performance at tunnel vault, while sandwich laying has best insulation effect at the arch foot and inverted arch. The research results can provide reference and basis for the thermal insulation and anti-freezing design of tunnels in high-altitude cold regions.

Abstract The vehicle suspension system is considered to have tremendous potential in energy harvesting and to be applicable for improving the efficiency of energy use of the vehicle. A novel piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) with noncontact magnetic force has the feature of low friction loss and is designed based on the vibration characteristic of the suspension system. The research comprises two main components: the motion conversion component and the energy conversion component. A screw‐nut mechanism that can convert linear vibration between the vehicle body and the wheel into rotational motion is used as the motion conversion component. The energy conversion component is a core component of the PEH; its function is to convert rotational energy into electrical energy through noncontact magnetic force and piezoelectric effect. The magnetic excitation model's credibility and the modeling method's feasibility are verified by experiment and simulation. Through vehicle field tests, the influence of the driving speed, road surface roughness, and cargo state on the harvested power is obtained. Driving on a random road, the maximum of the generated power is 24.28 W, at 60 km/h, under the laden state. Driving on a pulse road, the harvested power is 3346 W, at 30 km/h, under the unladen state. It is indicated that the PEH is a promising and practical option for harvesting energy for the vehicle's suspension system.

α-Synuclein (α-syn) can form oligomers, protofibrils, and fibrils, which are associated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies. Both the lipid peroxidation product 4-oxo-2-nonenal (ONE) and agitation can induce aggregation of α-syn and phosphorylated α-syn. Thus, clarification of the characteristics of different α-syn species could help to select suitable aggregates for diagnosis and elucidate the pathogenesis of diseases. Here, we characterized ONE-induced wild-type (WT) α-syn aggregates (OW), ONE-induced phosphorylated α-syn (p-α-syn) aggregates (OP), agitation-induced α-syn preformed fibrils (PFF), and agitation-induced p-α-syn preformed fibrils (pPFF). Thioflavin T (ThT) dying demonstrated that OW and OP had fewer fibrils than the PFF and pPFF. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the lengths of PFF and pPFF were similar, but the diameters differed. OW and OP had more compact structures than PFF and pPFF. Aggregation of p-α-syn was significantly faster than WT α-syn. Furthermore, OW and OP were more sodium dodecyl sulfate-stable and proteinase K-resistant, suggesting greater stability and compactness, while aggregates of PFF and pPFF were more sensitive to proteinase K treatment. Both ONE- and agitation-induced aggregates were cytotoxic when added exogenously to SH-SY5Y cells with increasing incubation times, but the agitation-induced aggregates caused cell toxicity in a shorter time and more p-α-syn inclusions. Similarly, p-proteins were more cytotoxic than non-p-proteins. Finally, all four aggregates were used as standard antigens to establish sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that the recognition efficiency of OW and OP was more sensitive than that of PFF and pPFF. The OW- and OP-specific ELISA for detection of p-α-syn and α-syn in plasma samples of Thy1-α-syn transgenic mice showed that the content of aggregates could reflect the extent of disease. ONE and agitation induced the formation of α-syn aggregates with distinct biophysical properties and biomedical applications.

Abstract We investigate the asymmetric Gaussian steering with the nondegenerate parametric amplifier in a three-mode optomechanical system composed of two optical cavities and a mechanical oscillator. In the presence of the nondegenerate parametric amplifier, we find that the Gaussian steering between the auxiliary cavity and the mechanical resonator without direct interaction is significantly enhanced. By cooling the delocalized Bogoliubov modes over the auxiliary cavity and the mechanical oscillator, the optimal optomechanical entanglement and Gaussian steering can be realized and enhanced. Furthermore, we observe a wider range of parameters for the Gaussian steering with the case of cooling double delocalized modes. In addition, the magnitudes of the asymmetric Gaussian steering in two different directions can be adjusted by altering the decay rate of the auxiliary optical mode. Therefore, our proposal provides an effective method to manipulate and enhance the one-way Gaussian steering between the two modes.

Fruit cracking affects both the yield and economic efficiency of citrus; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, this study focused on resistant and susceptible cultivars to identify the mechanisms underlying fruit cracking. The results showed that in ‘Mingrijian’, pectin morphological transformation and hemicellulose and lignin degradation in the pericarp were important contributing factors. During the critical fruit-cracking period (115–150 days after flowering), the water-soluble pectin, protopectin, and lignin contents in the pericarp of ‘Daya’ presented inverse changes relative to those in ‘Mingrijian’, thus enhancing the mechanical properties and resistance of pericarp. From 115 to 150 days after flowering, the soluble sugar content in the pulp of ‘Mingrijian’ increased rapidly by 97.35%, aiding in pulp water absorption and expansion. Moreover, the soluble protein content in the pericarp of ‘Mingrijian’ exhibited a declining trend and was lower than that of ‘Daya’, thus affecting the overall metabolism. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the pericarp of ‘Mingrijian’ gradually decreased from 115 to 180 days after flowering, while the peroxidase (POD) activity remained at a low level, resulting in weaker antioxidant capacity and lower environmental resistance. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of citrus fruit cracking, laying the foundation for preventive and control strategies.

Abstract Background The conventional belief that glucocorticosteroid (GC) acts through a single brand glucocorticoid receptor (GR)α protein has changed dramatically with the discovery of multiple GR isoforms. We aimed to evaluate whether multiple GR protein isoforms are expressed in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and whether GR protein isoform expression profiles differ between different endotypes of CRSwNP. Methods Thirty-eight patients with CRSwNP and ten healthy volunteers were included. The protein expression of multiple GR isoforms in nasal polyps (NPs) tissue and control mucosae was examined by western blot analysis with different GR antibodies. Results Five bands, including three bands for known proteins (GRα-A/B, GRα-C, and GRα-D) and two bands for unidentified proteins at 67 kilodaltons (kDa) and 60 kDa, were identified with both total GR antibody (PA1-511A) and GRα-specific antibody (PA1-516). GRα-D intensity, which was abundant in nasal mucosa, was significantly increased in the CRSwNP group and was especially elevated in the noneosinophilic CRSwNP (NE-CRSwNP) group (PA1-511A: P

Abstract Objective To explore the autophagy-related prognostic signature (ARPs) via data mining in gene expression profiles for glioblastoma (GBM). Methods Using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, we obtained 156 GBM samples and 5 adjacent normal samples, and denoted them as discovery cohort. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to screen autophagy genes that related to GBM prognosis. Then, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression model was used to construct an autophagy-based ARPs, which was validated in an external cohort containing 80 GBM samples. The patients in the above-mentioned cohorts were divided into low-risk group and high-risk group according to the median prognostic risk score, and the diagnostic performance of the model was assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve analyses. The gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed between the high-risk and low-risk patients. Additionally, the genetic features of ARPs, such as genetic variation profiles, correlations with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and potential drug sensitivity, were further assessed in the TCGA-GBM data set. Results A signature of ARPs including NDUFB9 , BAK1 , SUPT3H , GAPDH , CDKN1B , CHMP6, and EGFR were detected and validated. We identified a autophagy-related prognosis 7-gene signature correlated survival prognosis, immune infiltration, level of cytokines, and cytokine receptor in tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the signature was tested in several pathways related to disorders of tumor microenvironment, as well as cancer-related pathways. Additionally, a range of small molecular drugs, shown to have a potential therapeutic effect on GBM. Conclusions We constructed an autophagy-based 7-gene signature, which could serve as an independent prognostic indicator for cases of GBM and sheds light on the role of autophagy as a potential therapeutic target in GBM.

In recent decades, the rapid development of the global economy has led to a substantial increase in energy consumption, subsequently resulting in the emission of a significant quantity of toxic gases into the environment. So far, gas sensors based on polymer field-effect transistors (PFETs), a highly practical and cost-efficient strategy, have garnered considerable attention, primarily attributed to their inherent advantages of offering a plethora of material choices, robust flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, the development of functional organic semiconductors (OSCs), such as poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT), has been the subject of extensive scholarly investigation in recent years due to its widespread availability and remarkable sensing characteristics. This paper provides an exhaustive overview encompassing the production, functionalization strategies, and practical applications of gas sensors incorporating P3HT as the OSC layer. The exceptional sensing attributes and wide-ranging utility of P3HT position it as a promising candidate for improving PFET-based gas sensors.

Background: Intestinal inflammation caused by sleep restriction (SR) threatens human health. However, radical cure of intestinal inflammatory conditions is considerably difficult. This study focuses on the effect of melatonin on SR-induced intestinal inflammation and microbiota imbalance in mice. Methods: We successfully established a water platform to induce long-term SR in mice for 28 days with or without melatonin supplementation. The SR-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory changes were evaluated in plasma and jejunum tissue samples using in vitro assays. Additionally, changes in the intestinal microbiota were explored using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. Results: After 20 h of chronic sleep restriction for 28 consecutive days, plasma melatonin was significantly reduced by 48.91% (P < 0.05), while GLU, NE, and CORT were significantly increased (34.32%–90.28%, P < 0.05). The activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT) and T-AOC in intestinal tissues of SR mice were decreased (17.02%–40.92%, P < 0.05), while the content of MDA was increased (15.12%, P = 0.0089). The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) ware increased (65.27%–123.26%, P < 0.05), while the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10 and IFN-γ) were decreased (26.53%–60.41%, P < 0.05). High-throughput pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA from jejunum samples demonstrated an overall increase in the number of OTUs (30.68%, P = 0.015). The α-diversity (Shannon, ACE and Chao1) of jejunum was increased (28.18%–48.95%, P < 0.05), and the β-diversity (PCoA and NMDS) was significantly different from that of the control group (P = 0.001). Furthermore, the prevalences of Helicobacter and Clostridium were higher, whereas that of Bacteroidetes and Lactobacillus were lower in SR mice than in controls (P < 0.05). However, melatonin supplementation reversed the SR-induced changes and improved oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and microbiota dysbiosis in the jejunum, and there was not significant difference compared with the control group (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Melatonin prevents the dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota in SR mice by improving oxidative stress and inhibiting inflammation. Our results may provide a theoretical basis for conducting clinical research on insufficient sleep leading to intestinal health in humans and hence facilitate a better understanding of the role of melatonin.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are considered the most practical option for reducing emissions and fuel consumption of conventionally powered vehicles. Energy management strategies (EMSs) are the core technology of HEVs because of decreasing the cost of the system and limiting its negative effects. Equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) can achieve instantaneous optimal control and has attracted attention in recent years. In this study, an adaptive equivalent consumption minimization strategy (A-ECMS) based on driving cycle recognition is constructed for a parallel HEV. First, select the standard driving cycle and analyze its characteristic parameters. And then training learning vector quantization (LVQ) neural network-based driving cycle recognizer to achieve an average of 98% accuracy. At last, the optimal equivalent factor (EF) is selected for ECMS by recognizing the current driving cycle. It is jointly simulated and analyzed by AVL CRUISE and MATLAB/Simulink software under NEDC and CHTC-LT driving cycle. The results show that compared with the logic-based EMS, in the NEDC driving cycle the 100 km fuel consumption of A-ECMS decreases by 3.8%, and the battery state of charge (SOC) increases by 1.1%. In the CHTC-LT driving cycle, fuel economy improves by 3.6%, proving the superiority of the A-ECMS.

Abstract Perylene derivatives can be stimulated by the hypoxic tumor microenvironment to generate radical anion that is proposed to arouse electron exchange with oxidizing substance, and in turn, realize reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst. Here, three perylene therapeutic agents, PDI‐NI, PDIB‐NI, and PDIC‐NI, are developed and it is found that the minimum lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level makes PDIC‐NI most easily accept electrons from the oxidative respiratory chain to form lots of anions, and the resultant maximum ROS generation, establishing an unambiguous mechanism for the formation of perylene radical anions in the cell, presents solid evidence for LUMO energy level determining endogenous ROS burst. Stirringly, PDIC‐NI‐induced ROS generation arouses enhanced mitochondrial oxidative stress and concurrently activates immunogenic cell death (ICD), which not only efficiently kills lung tumor cells but also reprograms immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, including the cytokine secretion, dendritic cell maturation, as well as cytotoxic T lymphocytes activation, to inhibit the growth of xenografted and metastasis tumor, presenting a proof‐of‐concept demonstration of perylene that acts as an integrated therapeutic agent to well realize hypoxia‐activated chemotherapy with ICD‐induced immunotherapy on lung cancer.

Abstract Polymeric nanocarriers have a broad range of clinical applications in recent years, but an inefficient delivery of polymeric nanocarriers to target tissues has always been a challenge. These results show that tuning the elasticity of hydrogel nanoparticles (HNPs) improves their delivery efficiency to tumors. Herein, a microfluidic system is constructed to evaluate cellular uptake of HNPs of different elasticity under flow conditions. It is found that soft HNPs are more efficiently taken up by cells than hard HNPs under flow conditions, owing to the greater adhesion between soft HNPs and cells. Furthermore, in vivo imaging reveals that soft HNPs have a more efficient tumor delivery than hard HNPs, and the greater targeting potential of soft HNPs is associated with both prolonged blood circulation and a high extent of cellular adhesion.

Introduction Continuous intraoperative neural monitoring (C-IONM) is a promising technology used to decrease recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) damage during thyroid surgery. However, C-IONM use is limited due to its challenging application. C-IONM requires dissection of the carotid sheath and placement of an electrode around the vagus nerve (VN). In our study, we simultaneously stimulated and monitored the proximal RLN trans-tracheally using surface electrodes that were positioned solely on the endotracheal tube. Methods We described the design, implementation, and testing of a pre-prototype, combined stimulating and recording endotracheal tube (SRET) that continually delivered current from tube edge, and tested the function of the RLN at the vocal cords (VC). The SRET was tested in vivo on 10 RLNs using 5 pigs as animal models. Results The SRET was capable of the following, delivery of continuous trans-tracheal stimulation to the proximal RLN, continuous trans-tracheal stimulation-induced VC movement, and standard ipsilateral RLN biphasic waveforms with latency and amplitude; and recording evoked responses were recorded in the ipsilateral RLN. Conclusion The pre-prototype SRET represents a possible advancement in technology because it simplified the C-IONM. Thus, the SRET provides a minimally invasive, alternative application to the C-IONM vagal nerve cuff electrodes.

Functional nanoparticles (NPs) with unique photoelectric, mechanical, magnetic, and chemical properties have attracted considerable attention. Aggregated NPs rather than individual NPs are generally required for sensing, electronics, and catalysis. However, the transformation of functional NP aggregates into scalable, controllable, and affordable functional devices remains challenging. Printing is a promising additive manufacturing technology for fabricating devices from NP building blocks because of its capabilities for rapid prototyping and versatile multifunctional manufacturing. This paper reviews recent advances in NP patterning based on the combination of self-assembly and printing technologies (including two-, three-, and four-dimensional printing), introduces the basic characteristics of these methods, and discusses various fields of NP patterning applications. Public summary: • Nanoparticles (NPs) printing assembly is a good solution for patterned devices • NPs assembly can be combined with 2D, 3D, and 4D printing technologies • A variety of ink-dispersed NPs are available for printing assembly • NPs printing assembly technology is applied for nanosensing, energy storage, photodetector

Abstract Energy storage system can be used to increase the fuel economy of fuel cell system (FCS). In this study, a new method was introduced for optimizing the energy management strategy (EMS) for fuel cell vehicle (FCV) to reduce fuel consumption. The membership function (MF) in fuzzy control is subjective; thus, 12 design variables in the input‐output MFs were selected using sensitivity analysis, and elliptical basis function neural network method was used to establish a high‐precision approximate model of FCV. Multi‐island genetic algorithm was used to optimize the MFs. The effectiveness of the optimized fuzzy control EMS and the proposed optimization method were demonstrated in simulations of two EMSs under four driving cycles. The simulation results confirmed that the optimized fuzzy control EMS provided smoother and more stable output power from FCS reducing hydrogen consumption by 8.4%, 1.1%, 5.1%, and 7.6%, respectively, compared to the original fuzzy control EMS; and hydrogen saved by the optimized EMS provided extra range of 9.15, 1.10, 5.37, and 8.25 km per 100 km in the four driving cycles, respectively. The optimized EMS can reduce hydrogen consumption to increase fuel economy and extend the life span of the fuel cell.

Abstract Continuous intraoperative neural monitoring (C-IONM) during thyroid surgery is a useful tool for preventing recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury. The present study aims to analyze the tensile strength tolerance of C-IONM electrodes on the vagal nerve (VN). A C-IONM wire was enclosed in a hand-held tensile testing system. The probe displacement on the VN was continuously monitored by positioning a second probe far-up/proximally in a piglet model, and an automatic periodic stimulation (APS) accessory was used. The 3-mm and 2-mm APS accessory has a mean tensile strength of 20.6 ± 10 N (range, 14.6–24.4 N) and 11.25 ± 8 N (range, 8.4–15.6 N), respectively (P = 0.002). There was no difference between bilateral VNs. The mean amplitude before and during electrode displacement was 1.835 ± 102 μV and 1.795 ± 169 μV, respectively (P = 0.45). The mean percentage of amplitude decrease on the electromyography (EMG) was 6.9 ± 2.5%, and the mean percentage of latency increase was 1.9 ± 1.5%. No significant amplitude reduction or loss of signal (LOS) was observed after > 50 probe dislocations. C-IONM probe dislocation does not cause any LOS or significant EMG alterations on the VN.

Recently, people are becoming more concerned about their physical health and putting forward higher requirements for an early and painless diagnosis of diseases. Traditional methods, such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), surface-enhanced raman spectroscopy (SERS), and colorimetric methods have been used for the detection of biomarkers with high selectivity and sensitivity; however, these methods still need to be further improved for immediate and rapid diagnosis. Herein, organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs)-based biosensors offer the advantages of good flexibility, low-cost fabrication, reasonable sensitivity, and great biocompatibility for efficient determination of biomarkers in complex samples, including saliva, sweat, urine, and blood, respectively, exhibiting great potential in early disease diagnosis and clinical treatment.

At present， the traditional Archard wear model is mostly used to study the influence of wear on the dynamic characteristics of gears， without considering the lubrication characteristics of gears, and the main research objects are mostly straight gears. In order to make up for the shortage of research on helical gear， the wear process under mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication is numerically simulated. An eight-degree of freedom dynamics model of helical gear is established to investigate the influence of tooth surface wear on gear dynamic characteristic. The gear fatigue test is carried out on a helical gearbox test rig to validate the numerical results. The results show that the wear mainly occurs on the region close to the tooth root and tooth tip， and the maximum wear occurs at the tooth root due to the relative high sliding-to-roll ratio. The variation of the amplitudes of the gear meshing frequency and its harmonics demonstrates that the wear causes an increase in gear vibrations. The experimental results show a good agreement with the numerical results， which implies the study can provide a reliable theoretical basis for the prediction and fault diagnosis of helical gear wear.

Background: The electromyographic (EMG) profiles of external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) have been defined and the optimal intensity of the stimulation of EBSLN in an in vivo porcine model has been explored. Materials: EMG was simultaneously registered by the surface of endotracheal tube and needle electrodes by applying a monopolar stimulation probe in 12 piglets (22 EBSLNs). Vagal nerve (VN), RLN and EBSLN were excited to record the EMG tracings and cricothyroid muscle twitch (CTM). VN, RLN and EBSLN were stimulated from 0.1 to 1.0 mA. Cmin and Cmax have been defined as the minimum and maximal stimulation to evoke an EMG response. Results: The stimulation resulted in a dose-response curve. Cmin were 0.19 mA (0.04–0.4), 0.19 mA (0.08–0.3) and 0.21 mA (0.1-0.4) for EBSLN, RLN and VN (p > 0.05) respectively. Cmax were 0.6 mA along with an amplitude value of 396 ± 330 μV, 0.5 mA including 1058 ± 382 μV, 0.8 mA coupled with 870 ± 382 μV, equally for EBSLN, RLN and VN (p > 0.05) respectively. No asymmetry of amplitude responses each side for EBSLN, RLN and VN (p = 0.317, p = 0.203 and p = 0.468, respectively) was noted. The amplitudes of EBSLN were significantly lower than RLNs and VN (42% of RLN and 50% of VN amplitude rates). Also, CTM twitch was always detectable with the stimulation of EBSLN. Conclusions: Cmin and Cmax of EBSLN were comparable to RLN and VN standards. The amplitude stimulus-response curves of RLN, VN and EBSLN were highly variable. It has been suggested to apply a stimulation of 1.0 mA and a visual appreciation of CTM twitch for the identification of EBSLN.

Recently, the synchronous motion planning (SMP) has been viewed as a crucial issue in dual-arm robot systems. In this study, a new SMP scheme based on the Jacobian pseudoinverse formulation is presented and investigated for dual-arm robot systems. Such a scheme is established by discretizing the existing SMP scheme via a special difference formula. The presented discrete-time SMP (DTSMP) scheme is then theoretically analyzed to possess the biquadrate pattern in the end-effector planning error of each arm, thereby guaranteeing the synchronous planning precision of dual-arm robot systems. Simulation results under the system composed of two four-link planar robot arms are provided to further substantiate the effective and superior performance of the presented DTSMP scheme.

Many control problems require solving the algebraic Riccati equation (ARE). Previous studies have focused more on solving the time-invariant ARE than on solving the time-varying ARE (TVARE). This paper proposes a typical recurrent neural network called zeroing neural network (ZNN) to determine the solution of TVARE. Specifically, the ZNN model, which is formulated as an implicit dynamic equation, is developed by defining an indefinite error function and using an exponential decay formula. Then, such a model is theoretically analyzed and proven to be effective in solving the TVARE. Computer simulation results with two examples also validate the efficacy of the proposed ZNN model.

Introduction and ObjectiveThere is a need for a simplified technique for C-IONM in robotic surgery. The primary aim of this study was to describe our clinical experience with the use of percutaneous C-IONM in robotic bilateral axillary thyroid surgery.MethodsThis study prospectively enrolled 304 consecutive patients who underwent robotic thyroidectomy via the bilateral axillo-breast approach and standardized C-IONM via percutaneous probe stimulation.Results323 RLNs were analyzed. C-IONM with percutaneous probes was feasible in all cases. During this study, we did not record any cases of probe displacement, and no additional robotic maneuvers were required. The average stimulation intensity was 2 mA. There were no adverse local or systemic C-IONM side effects. The mean time required for probe positioning was 3 minutes. The EMG amplitude signal of 48 RLNs decreased significantly, < 50% from the original V1 signal. In these cases, the surgical procedure was modified.ConclusionThe proposed percutaneous C-IONM provides a simplification of the continuous monitoring procedure for robotics. The advantage of percutaneous C-IONM is that it does not require additional trocar space, repeated instrument changes, and unmodified cosmesis. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the application of percutaneous C-IONM in robotic thyroid surgery.

We propose a scheme to engineer phonon laser in a non-Hermitian cavity magnomechanical (CMM) system with dissipative magnon-photon coupling. The exceptional point (EP) (the analog of the $\mathcal{PT}$ -symmetric regime), emerging in the system and changing the properties of photons, magnons, and phonons, can be observed with a tunable dissipative magnon-photon coupling caused by the cavity Lenz’s law. At the EP, we find that a strong nonlinear relation appears between the mechanical amplification factor and the detuning parameter, which results in a dramatic enhancement of magnetostrictive force and mechanical gain, and leading to the highly efficient phonon laser and the ultralow threshold power. Furthermore, EP induced by dissipative coupling is flexible and tunable compared to the $\mathcal{PT}$ -symmetric regime, and the ultralow threshold power phonon laser is immune to the loss rates of the photon and magnon modes. Our scheme provides a theoretical basis for phonon laser in non-Hermitian systems and presents potential applications ranging from preparing coherent phonon sources to operating on-chip functional acoustic devices.

Abstract Background In this study, we aimed to compare the kinetics of intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) during the perioperative period of endoscopic thyroidectomy via bilateral areola approach (ETBAA) in the same period, following a traditional open thyroidectomy approach (OTA). Methods We conducted a prospective observational study of patients who were undergoing thyroidectomy and level VI clearance. Patients who had been affected by papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) were stratified into three groups: those eligible for endoscopic treatment (ETBAA); patients who were eligible for ETBAA but had opted for OTA (OTA-L); and patients who were not suitable for endoscopic intervention (OTA-H). A process for locating parathyroid glands was utilized to stratify gland dissection laboriousness. In Type A, the gland is firmly fixed to thyroid gland. This type can be sub-classified into three subtypes. A1: the parathyroid gland is attached to the inherent thyroid capsule. A2: the gland is partially embedded in the thyroid gland. A3: the gland is located in the thyroid tissue. Type B is defined as a gland which is separated from the thyroid gland. The iPTH was sampled at wound closure. Results There were 100 patients in each group. We found a significant difference between the ETBAA and OTA-H groups for type A2, as well as a loss of parathyroid glands and a number of parathyroid transplantation procedures. The endoscopic group was treated during an earlier stage of thyroid cancer. The iPTH profile of each group decreased, although this was the most consistent in the OTA-H group. A comparison of ETBAA with OTA-L demonstrates that the iPTH level change is similar. Conclusion There is no advantage of endoscopic treatment for preserving parathyroid function.

Abstract Vehicles are subject to a variety of road unevenness and random road excitations that potentially cause the vehicle to undergo a significant amount of energy dissipation, while compromising energy efficiency. This paper focuses on designing a novel piezoelectric energy harvester and aims to assess the energy harvesting potential, from the vehicle suspension, under random and pulse road excitations. To describe the energy harvesting process, a dual‐mass suspension system vibration model of a light electric logistics vehicle, equipped with a piezoelectric energy harvester, is developed. Various parameters, such as driving speed, ratio of the moment arms of the lever, and piezoelectric material cross‐sectional area, are included in the model, for basic harvesting energy. The root mean square (RMS) value of harvested power, in the case of random road, is up to 18.83 W, while the maximum respective value, in the case of pulse road, is 102.24 W and is obtained at 30 km/h. The harvested electricity is very valuable and useful, as it can be used to power automotive electrical equipment. The results of this paper provide an important reference frame for future research, related to energy harvesting from vehicle suspension.

In this paper, the steady-state and transient heat transfer processes of functionally graded materials (FGMs) are analyzed using a coupled thermo-mechanical model in a GPU parallel multiphysics finite–discrete element software, namely MultiFracS. First, the coupled model to handle the heat transfer problem of heterogeneous materials is verified. Then, the advantages and disadvantages of FGMs and composite materials in response to thermal shock loads are compared and the results indicate that FGMs can overcome extreme environments better than composite materials. Finally, the influence of the geometric distribution characteristics of the double-edge cracks in the gradient material plate on the crack propagation is analyzed. The simulation results show that the interaction between the cracks affects the crack propagation path under the thermal load. The inclination angle and spacing of double-edge cracks greatly influence crack propagation. Specifically, a larger inclination angle and spacing can lead to a smaller crack propagation angle. The approach in this paper provides a new quantitative tool for investigating the thermal, elastic, and cracking of functionally graded materials.

The interstock, a stock between the rootstock and scion, has a significant regulatory effect on the stock and scion, and its function is highly dependent on graft compatibility. To assess the graft compatibility of the interstock and scion, ‘Yuanxiaochun’ was top grafted onto ‘Ponkan’, ‘Shiranuhi’, ‘Harumi’, ‘Tarocco’, and ‘Kumquat’. The results showed significant differences in the survival ratio and preservation ratio among different combinations. Grafting compatibility in the early stages of grafting was associated with the genetic relationship. The biomass accumulation revealed that the interstock could influence both the rootstock and the scion. The physiological and biochemical traits analysis suggested that SPAD reading and soluble sugar could be employed as preselected indices to evaluate graft compatibility in the late stage of grafting. These results indicated that the evaluation of graft compatibility was a dynamic process. The findings provided a new approach for studying the stock and scion interaction mechanisms mediated by interstock, and directly provided a theoretical and practical basis for the high-grafting of ‘Yuanxiaochun’ citrus.

Secondary lining concrete is frequently used in underground tunnels. Due to the internal restriction of the annular concrete segment, micro-cracks may be caused by temperature stress and volume deformation, thus affecting the safe transportation of the tunnel. The purpose of this study is to provide a concrete experimental basis with low hydration heat and low shrinkage for tunnel engineering with different construction requirements. Different amounts of expansion agent (EA), shrinkage-reducing agent (SRA), and superabsorbent polymer (SAP) were considered in commercial concrete. It was found that EA elevated the degree of hydration and the hydration exothermic rate, while SRA and SAP showed the opposite regularity. SRA has the optimum shrinkage reduction performance with a 79% reduction in shrinkage, but the strength decreases significantly compared to EA and SAP groups. The effect of the combination of different shrinkage reducing components in commercial concrete is instructive for the hydration rate and shrinkage compensation in secondary lining engineering.

Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are becoming increasingly popular because they are both environmentally friendly and energy efficient. However, because no waste heat from the internal combustion engine can be used, the additional electricity needed to heat the cabin in cold weather increases the energy consumption substantially. This also lowers both the fuel economics and driving range. The required additional heating is typically done with a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) electric heater. To overcome the associated performance problem, a novel vehicle-integrated thermal management system (VTMS) with a heat-pump system is developed and investigated in this study. Using a simulation, the performance of the VTMS is investigated with respect to cooling performance, heating performance, and heating energy consumption for several different heat sources. For four different driving cycles, the equivalent hydrogen consumption (EHC) is highest when the PTC heater is used. The heat-pump system, which uses waste heat generated by a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, shows the lowest EHC. The results reveal that the use of a heat-pump heating system with waste heat can reduce hydrogen consumption by ∼14.6%, 6.5%, 16.9%, and 16.7% compared to PTC heating. Furthermore, the driving ranges increased by 17.2, 6.8, 20.3, and 12.6 km per 100 km, respectively. The VTMS, thanks to its ability to reduce energy consumption effectively, makes it possible to improve the thermal comfort in the vehicle cabin, which is especially useful for the commercialization of FCVs.

Tooth surface wear and bearing clearance are important factors affecting gear system dynamics, in order to reveal the influence of tooth wears and bearing clearance on the dynamics of gear system, a six-degree-of-freedom bending-torsion coupled model is established, which takes into account the tooth surface wear, bearing clearance, friction and backlash. The dynamic differential equations are solved by Runge-Kutta method and the dynamic response of the system is obtained. The results show that when the gear changes in unworn phase to mild wear phase, the amplitude of dynamic transfer error decreases and the vibration is weakened. With the increment of tooth surface wear, the amplitude of dynamic transmission error increases and the vibration is strengthened when the gear reaches severe wear phase. With the increase of bearing clearance, the peak-to-peak value of dynamic transfer error will increase and resonance phenomenon will appear, the stability of system will decrease.

Engineering the coordination mode of atom or ion onto the substrate remains challenging. Here, guided by theoretical calculation, the authors prepare stacked-nanosheet MOF based catalyst with precisely controlled coordination sites on the surface and enhanced catalytic reactivity and structural robustness.

Abstract Data with regard to potential recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) compromise caused by intra-neck CO2 insufflation during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) are missing. RLN electromyographic (EMG) profiles, metabolic and hemodynamic parameters (oxygen saturation, heart rate, blood pressure, experimental time, CO2 partial pressure, pH, O2 partial pressure), central venous pressure (CVP), airpocket temperature and pressure were recorded in a TOETVA animal model. Twelve pigs were randomly divided into different groups according to increasing CO2 insufflation pressures. Nerves segments were then collected for histopathology. Significant variation of metabolic and hemodynamic parameters were registered when CO2 insufflation pressures increased x3 and x5 the baseline parameters. Combined EMG amplitude drop and latency increase also were documented. There was no significant change in the intraluminal temperature. RLNs structure were preserved with normal axons, no fibrosis, and no vacuolization and without loss of myelinated fibers during the experiment. RLN EMG profiles (but not histology) were altered when CO2 insufflation pressures increased.

With a strong legal basis and regulatory authority, cost-effective transient emission sensors that reflect real-driving emissions are key factors for accomplishing environmental requirements. It is difficult for the existing NOx emission monitoring techniques to achieve a balance between accuracy and timeliness. Fundamentally, in-cylinder combustion is the thermodynamic cause of NOx emissions and the main excitation source for engine vibration and noise emissions. A novel vibration-based virtual NOx sensor is developed based on these critical relationships for real-time NOx monitoring. First, the correlation between vibration and NOx emission was characterized in-depth. Then, a technique of constructing two-dimensional filters for vibration signals is proposed to extract combustion-related information. A principal component regression (PCR) model for NOx prediction was established based on the reconstructed in-cylinder pressure. Finally, the virtual NOx sensor is tested and validated on a single-cylinder diesel engine bench. The virtual NOx sensor is proven to meet the accuracy requirement of vehicle emission monitoring for both steady-state and transient conditions and has a better frequency response compared to the emission measurement system.