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Clock drift is common for the autonomous ocean bottom seismometer, and a technique of linear drift correction is usually used to fix this kind of timing error assuming that the internal clock has constant drift rate during deployment. However, non‐linear component of clock drift has also been found recently. In order to test the behaviours of the clock drift for 19 Chinese ocean bottom seismometers from a three‐dimensional controlled‐source seismic survey, we have analysed two types of differences in direct wave travel‐times, including one from all shots to the ocean bottom seismometer onboard and another one from the nearest two shots on different shooting lines to the ocean bottom seismometer on the seafloor. Comparison of the differences in direct wave travel‐times from seismic data with and without clock drift correction shows that linear drift correction can commendably eliminate them for most of the ocean bottom seismometers, but some large residuals remain for part of the ocean bottom seismometers. These residuals are inferred to be possibly related to the non‐linear component of clock drift caused by the temperature shock during deployment. The non‐linear clock drift usually varies from different ocean bottom seismometers and thus difficult to correct completely and resultantly will influence the timing accuracy somewhat. Hence, higher uncertainties are suggested to assign to the picked travel‐times for the ocean bottom seismometer with possibly larger non‐linear clock drift in the further tomographic modelling and the internal clock for this kind of ocean bottom seismometer should be recalibrated prior to the next experiment if which requires higher timing accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser interferometry is one of the most accurate measurement technologies whose displacement resolution can reach the femtometer (fm) level. With the development of Micro‐Electro‐Mechanical Systems(MEMS) technology, many excellent optical interferometric MEMS sensors have emerged, which play an essential role in intelligent manufacturing, aerospace, and many other fields. Among them, optical interferometric MEMS accelerometers develop rapidly due to their high sensitivity, low noise, and anti‐electromagnetic interference advantages. Lots of research in optical interferometric chip design, micro‐nano fabrication process, signal demodulation algorithm, and range extension technology are performed, and different types of MEMS accelerometers based on the optical interferometric principles are developed, which have been demonstrated and applied in the fields of disaster monitoring, equipment operation and maintenance, and resource exploration. This paper reviews the development status of optical interferometric MEMS accelerometers, mainly focusing on the critical problems and solutions that need to be solved in the development process of optical interferometric accelerometers, and finally introduces the typical application scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) can be life threatening and have chronic impacts on patients and society. Timely diagnosis and treatment are imperative to prevent deterioration. Conventional imaging modalities, such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Positron Emission Tomography (PET), are expensive and not readily accessible to patients. Microwave sensing and imaging (MSI) systems are promising tools for monitoring pathological changes, namely the lateral ventricle enlargement associated with ND, in a non-invasive and convenient way. This paper presents a dual-planar monopole antenna-based remote sensing system for ND monitoring. First, planar monopole antennas were designed using the simulation software CST Studio Suite. The antenna analysis was carried out regarding the reflection coefficient, gain, radiation pattern, time domain characterization, E-field distribution, and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR). The designed antennas were then integrated with a controlling circuit as a remote sensing system. The system was experimentally validated on brain phantoms using a vector network analyzer and a laptop. The collected reflection coefficient data were processed using a radar-based imaging algorithm to reconstruct images indicating brain abnormality in ND. The results suggest that the system could serve as a low-cost and efficient tool for long-term monitoring of ND, particularly in clinics and care home scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are important human arbovirus vectors that can spread arboviral diseases such as yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya and Zika. These two mosquito species coexist on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula in China. Over the past 40 years, the distribution of Ae. albopictus in these areas has gradually expanded, while Ae. aegypti has declined sharply. Monitoring their genetic diversity and diffusion could help to explain the genetic influence behind this phenomenon and became key to controlling the epidemic of arboviruses. Methods: To better understand the genetic diversity and differentiation of these two mosquitoes, the possible cohabiting areas on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula were searched between July and October 2021, and five populations were collected. Respectively nine and 11 microsatellite loci were used for population genetic analysis of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. In addition, the mitochondrial coxI gene was also selected for analysis of both mosquito species. Results: The results showed that the mean diversity index (PIC and SI values) of Ae. albopictus (mean PIC = 0.754 and SI = 1.698) was higher than that of Ae. aegypti (mean PIC = 0.624 and SI = 1.264). The same results were also observed for the coxI gene: the genetic diversity of all populations of Ae. albopictus was higher than that of Ae. aegypti (total H = 45 and Hd = 0.89958 vs. total H = 23 and Hd = 0.76495, respectively). UPGMA dendrogram, DAPC and STRUCTURE analyses showed that Ae. aegypti populations were divided into three clusters and Ae. albopictus populations into two. The Mantel test indicated a significant positive correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance for the Ae. aegypti populations (R2 = 0.0611, P = 0.001), but the correlation was not significant for Ae. albopictus populations (R2 = 0.0011, P = 0.250). Conclusions: The population genetic diversity of Ae. albopictus in Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula was higher than that of Ae. aegypti. In terms of future vector control, the most important and effective measure was to control the spread of Ae. albopictus and monitor the population genetic dynamics of Ae. aegypti on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula, which could theoretically support the further elimination of Ae. aegypti in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus are important human arbovirus vectors that can spread arboviral diseases such as yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya and Zika. These two mosquito species coexist on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula in China. Over the past 40 years, the distribution of Ae. albopictus in these areas has gradually expanded, while Ae. aegypti has declined sharply. Monitoring their genetic diversity and diffusion could help to explain the genetic influence behind this phenomenon and became key to controlling the epidemic of arboviruses. Methods: To better understand the genetic diversity and differentiation of these two mosquitoes, the possible cohabiting areas on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula were searched between July and October 2021, and five populations were collected. Respectively nine and 11 microsatellite loci were used for population genetic analysis of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. In addition, the mitochondrial coxI gene was also selected for analysis of both mosquito species. Results: The results showed that the mean diversity index (PIC and SI values) of Ae. albopictus (mean PIC = 0.754 and SI = 1.698) was higher than that of Ae. aegypti (mean PIC = 0.624 and SI = 1.264). The same results were also observed for the coxI gene: the genetic diversity of all populations of Ae. albopictus was higher than that of Ae. aegypti (total H = 45 and Hd = 0.89958 vs. total H = 23 and Hd = 0.76495, respectively). UPGMA dendrogram, DAPC and STRUCTURE analyses showed that Ae. aegypti populations were divided into three clusters and Ae. albopictus populations into two. The Mantel test indicated a significant positive correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance for the Ae. aegypti populations (R2 = 0.0611, P = 0.001), but the correlation was not significant for Ae. albopictus populations (R2 = 0.0011, P = 0.250). Conclusions: The population genetic diversity of Ae. albopictus in Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula was higher than that of Ae. aegypti. In terms of future vector control, the most important and effective measure was to control the spread of Ae. albopictus and monitor the population genetic dynamics of Ae. aegypti on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula, which could theoretically support the further elimination of Ae. aegypti in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the main histologic type of liver cancer. It accounts for the majority of all diagnoses and deaths due to liver cancer. The induction of tumor cell death is an effective strategy to control tumor development. Pyroptosis is an inflammatory programmed cell death caused by microbial infection, accompanied by activation of inflammasomes and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-18 (IL-18). The cleavage of gasdermins (GSDMs) promotes the occurrence of pyroptosis leading to cell swelling, lysis, and death. Accumulating evidence has indicated that pyroptosis influences the progression of HCC by regulating immune-mediated tumor cell death. Currently, some researchers hold the view that inhibition of pyroptosis-related components may prevent the incidence of HCC, but more researchers have the view that activation of pyroptosis exerts a tumor-inhibitory effect. Growing evidence indicates that pyroptosis can prevent or promote tumor development depending on the type of tumor. In this review, pyroptosis pathways and pyroptosis-related components were discussed. Next, the role of pyroptosis and its components in HCC was described. Finally, the therapeutic significance of pyroptosis in HCC was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A three‐dimensional (3D) P‐wave seismic velocity (Vp) model of the crust in the northern South China Sea margin drilled by IODP Expeditions 367/368/368X has been obtained with first‐arrival travel‐time tomography using wide‐angle seismic data from a network of 49 OBSs and 11 air‐gun shot lines. The 3D Vp distribution constrains the extent, structure and nature of the continental, continent to ocean transition (COT), and oceanic domains. Continental crust laterally ranges in thickness from ∼8 to 20 km, a ∼20 km‐width COT contains no evidence of exhumed mantle, and crust with clear oceanic seismic structure ranges in thickness from ∼4.5 to 9 km. A high‐velocity (7.0–7.5 km/s) lower crust (HVLC) ranges in thickness from ∼1 to 9 km across the continental and COT domains, which is interpreted as a proxy of syn‐rift and syn‐breakup magma associated to underplating and/or intrusions. Continental crust thinning style is abrupter in the NE segment and gradual in the SW segment. Abrupter continental thinning exhibits thicker HVLC at stretching factor (β) < ∼3, whereas gentler thinning associates to thinner HVLC at β > ∼4. Opening of the NE segment thus occurred by comparatively increased magmatism, whereas tectonic extension was more important in the SW segment. The Vp distribution shows the changes in deformation and magmatism are abrupt along the strike of the margin, with the segments possibly bounded by a transfer fault system. No conventional model explains the structure and segmentation of tectonic and magmatic processes. Local inherited lithospheric heterogeneities during rifting may have modulated the contrasting opening styles. Plain Language Summary: Rapid transition from continent to ocean at the northern South China Sea has been found by IODP Expeditions 367/368/368X through seven drilling sites, but where and how the transition occurred along the strike of the rifted margin is still debated. A three‐dimensional (3D) P‐wave seismic velocity (Vp) model is therefore constructed with first‐arrival travel‐time tomography using wide‐angle seismic data from a network of 49 OBSs and 11 air‐gun shot lines. In combination with other geophysical and geological data, we reveal the geometry of a comparatively narrow continent to ocean transition zone of ∼20 km in width and the significant along‐strike variation in the continental crust thinning style and magma generation. Furthermore, a transfer fault system has been inferred to possibly separate the NE tectono‐magmatic segment from the SW tectonic‐dominated segment. The segmentation in tectonic and magmatic domains supports that local inherited lithospheric heterogeneities may have led to the different opening styles during rift‐to‐drift process. Key Points: Crustal structure at the northern South China Sea drilled by IODP Expeditions 367/368/368X is unraveled by 3D controlled‐source tomographyAbrupt along‐strike change in deformation and magmatism from the NE tectono‐magmatic segment to the SW tectonic‐dominated segment is foundLocal inherited lithospheric heterogeneities may have caused the along‐strike segmentation and the resultant contrasting opening styles [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juglans mandshurica has strong freezing resistance, surviving temperatures as low as −40 °C, making it an important freeze tolerant germplasm resource of the genus Juglans. APETALA2/ethylene responsive factor (AP2/ERF) is a plant-specific superfamily of transcription factors that regulates plant development, growth, and the response to biotic and abiotic stress. In this study, phylogenetic analysis was used to identify 184 AP2/ERF genes in the J. mandshurica genome, which were classified into five subfamilies (JmAP2, JmRAV, JmSoloist, JmDREB, and JmERF). A significant amount of discordance was observed in the 184 AP2/ERF genes distribution of J. mandshurica throughout its 16 chromosomes. Duplication was found in 14 tandem and 122 segmental gene pairs, which indicated that duplications may be the main reason for JmAP2/ERF family expansion. Gene structural analysis revealed that 64 JmAP2/ERF genes contained introns. Gene evolution analysis among Juglandaceae revealed that J. mandshurica is separated by 14.23 and 15 Mya from Juglans regia and Carya cathayensis, respectively. Based on promoter analysis in J. mandshurica, many cis-acting elements were discovered that are related to light, hormones, tissues, and stress response processes. Proteins that may contribute to cold resistance were selected for further analysis and were used to construct a cold regulatory network based on GO annotation and JmAP2/ERF protein interaction network analysis. Expression profiling using qRT-PCR showed that 14 JmAP2/ERF genes were involved in cold resistance, and that seven and five genes were significantly upregulated under cold stress in female flower buds and phloem tissues, respectively. This study provides new light on the role of the JmAP2/ERF gene in cold stress response, paving the way for further functional validation of JmAP2/ERF TFs and their application in the genetic improvement of Juglans and other tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To explore loneliness, in association with frailty, in explaining the quality of life (QOL) of empty‐nest older adults in rural China. Design A cross‐sectional questionnaire survey was conducted. Methods: Data collection was performed from June to August 2017 in Changchun, the capital city of Jilin province, which consists of seven districts and three counties. In total, 304 older adults aged 60 years and above participated. The characteristics of older adults were evaluated in terms of frailty status, loneliness and the QOL. One‐way and two‐way analyses of covariance and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves were used to explore the relationships of frailty, loneliness and the QOL. Results: The one‐way ANCOVA showed a significant difference among robust, prefrail and frail participants for loneliness. Moreover, an interaction effect of frailty with loneliness in determining the QOL was found. The receiver operating characteristic curves showed that loneliness and QOL could distinguish frail older adults, and the best cutoffs were 34.5 and 67.4, respectively. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a close relationship between frailty and loneliness, suggesting the need to simultaneously consider the two with regard to the QOL of empty‐nest older adults in rural China. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? There were no studies examining the associations of frailty and loneliness with QOL or the cut‐point of the loneliness and QOL scores to reflect frailty.Few studies have revealed an association between loneliness and frailty. These studies focus mainly on older adults living in the community, and none consider the relationship between mental status and the frailty of empty nesters. What this paper adds? This study determined that frailty, loneliness and the QOL had a close relationship in empty nesters. There was a significant interaction among frailty, loneliness and the quality of life.Loneliness and the QOL could distinguish frail older adults, and the best cutoffs were 34.5 and 67.4, respectively. The implications of this paper? This study can enable governments and communities to pay attention to the psychological status of empty‐nest individuals while paying attention to their psychological problems, such as loneliness, to help them improve their quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin is a hydrophobic polyphenol with various health benefits, but its poor water solubility and stability limit its application in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, a pH-driven method was developed to prepare ovalbumin (OVA)-curcumin nanocomplexes without organic solvents, reducing the environmental impact. The results showed that curcumin was encapsulated in OVA with a high efficiency of over 95% and remained in an amorphous state within the protein molecules. Molecular docking and spectroscopic analyses revealed that curcumin was mainly bound and stabilized by hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions in the hydrophobic core of OVA. The binding strength of the intermediate stage of the pH-driven method was stronger than that of the final stage, due to the exposure of OVA molecular binding sites and the involvement of electrostatic attraction. Furthermore, the potential of polysaccharide blending to enhance the stability of the nanocomplexes was investigated. The results showed that sodium alginate effectively enhanced the photostability and thermal stability of the OVA-curcumin nanocomplexes by co-solubilization and electrostatic complex formation. In addition, simulated in vitro digestion also demonstrated that the pH-driven method combined with polysaccharide blending increased the bioaccessibility of curcumin in nanocomplexes from 17.79% to 52.54%. Therefore, the pH-driven method coupled with polysaccharide blending ensures the encapsulation and stabilization of hydrophobic bioactive substances for use in their delivery systems to improve bioaccessibility. [Display omitted] • A pH-driven method was developed to prepare ovalbumin-curcumin complexes. • This method improved the encapsulation of curcumin without the organic solvents. • This method involved hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. • The co-blending of Alg could enhance the stability of the complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In [26] , Zheng studied the bounded derived categories of constructible Q ¯ l -sheaves on certain algebraic stacks consisting of the representations of a framed quiver and categorified the integrable highest weight modules of the corresponding quantum group by using these categories. In this paper, we generalize Zheng's work and realize highest weight modules of a certain subalgebra of the double Ringel-Hall algebra of a finite quiver without edge loops via spaces of functions on representation varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• I-integral was established for solving K tip of impermeable, permeable and conducting cracks in ferroelectrics. • Large-scale domain switching of a cracked ferroelectric was simulated. • A step-by-step tensile stress divides domain evolution process and K I variation into three stages. • A step-by-step electric field divides domain evolution process and K I variation into two stages. It is a challenge to determine the crack-tip stress intensity factors (SIFs) of ferroelectrics under large-scale domain switching. An I-integral method has been previously established for an impermeable crack. In order to investigate the influences of crack-face electric boundary conditions on domain switching and the SIFs, this paper develops the I-integral for permeable and conducting cracks to extract the crack-tip SIFs of ferroelectric materials. For all crack-face electric boundary conditions, the I-integral is independent of integration area size, even though the integration area contains domain walls. The phase field model based on the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau theory combined with the I-integral method is employed to simulate a tensile test of a cracked PbTiO 3 single-crystal plate through increasing the tensile stress step by step. The simulations show that the domain evolution process can be divided into three stages by two large-scale polarization reorientations (a local switching and a global switching) for all crack-face electric boundary conditions, including impermeable, permeable and conducting cases. In each stage, almost invariable domain pattern results in a nearly linear variation of the mode-I SIF. The mode-I SIF in the impermeable case is very close or even identical to that in the permeable case but significant larger than that in the conducting case. Except the local switching away from the crack, a local or global switching generally reduces the mode-I SIF obviously. Applied an increasing electric field, the domain evolution process contains two stages separated by a global switching causing a sudden increase of the mode-I SIF for the impermeable case and a sudden fall for the permeable and conducting cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) is a critical chemokine regulating immune cells' chemotaxis as well as their physiological or pathological activations. In fish cells, recombinant IL‐8 proteins induced transcriptions of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Nonetheless, the exact mechanisms underlying the function of fish IL‐8 as a pro‐inflammatory cytokine are still unclear. In this paper, the authors first prepared recombinant grass carp IL‐8 (rgcIL‐8) using an Escherichia coli expression system, and later confirmed rgcIL‐8 increased gene expression of il8, il1β and tumour necrosis factor alpha (tnfα) in grass carp head kidney leukocytes (HKLs). Using signalling pathway inhibitors, the authors showed that rgcIL‐8 regulated transcriptions of pro‐inflammatory cytokines via MAPK and/or NF‐κB signalling pathways. They cloned gcIL‐8‐specific receptor CXCR1 and subsequently discovered that gcIL‐8 could increase the activity of NF‐κB and the transcription of IL‐1β via CXCR1. Simultaneously, antibody neutralization assay showed that endogenous IL‐8 is partially relevant to the self‐regulation of IL‐1β. Moreover, rgcIL‐8 led to the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase gene, causing an accumulation of nitric oxide in the culture medium of HKLs, suggesting the potential of gcIL‐8 to mediate inflammatory response. This study not only enriched the function of IL‐8 in teleost but also revealed it as a potential target for the inflammatory control in grass carp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pH-driven method, recognized for its material safety and avoidance of organic solvents, is considered a promising approach for the encapsulation of hydrophobic active substances. However, the interaction mode and mechanism between carriers and receptors in two stages (alkalization and neutralization) remain underexplored. In this study, the hydrophilic globular protein ovalbumin (OVA) was utilized as a carrier to load curcumin (Cur) by the pH-driven method, with an alkalization pH of 8–12. The results indicated that the solubility of Cur and the degree of protein unfolding increased with increasing alkalization pH, with a transformation in the secondary structure observed at pH 12. During the alkalization stage at pH 11 and 12, the loading efficiency of Cur exceeded 90%, with binding constants reaching as high as 5.79 × 105 M−1 and 1.44 × 105 M−1, respectively. The interactions transitioned through three phases in the alkalization process: electrostatic dominance to hydrophobic dominance, electrostatic assistance to hydrophobic dominance, and electrostatic repulsion hindrance. Notably, the generation of electrostatic repulsion and the potential loss of binding sites resulted in a decrease in the binding affinity between OVA and Cur at pH 12. In the neutralization stage, a stable structure dominated by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces was observed, with Cur encapsulated within the hydrophobic core of OVA. The mechanism proposed in this study elucidates the factors affecting the efficacy of the pH-driven method and helps to refine the application in hydrophobic active substance delivery systems. [Display omitted] • The stages of the pH-driven method with ovalbumin as a carrier are examined. • Curcumin binding is modulated by the extent of protein unfolding. • Dominant interactions are altered during alkalization and neutralization. • The curcumin encapsulation is impeded by electrostatic repulsion at alkaline pH 12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TJ-M2010-5 contributed to xenograft survival. • TJ-M2010-5 alleviates AVR by inhibiting B cells activation and anti-donor antibody production. • TJ-M2010-5 alleviates SIXR by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines production. • TJ-M2010-5 suppresses the expression of CD80/CD86 on DCs and macrophages in xenotransplantation. • TJ-M2010-5 inhibits epigenetic modifications underlying IL-6 and TNF-α production in macrophages. Acute vascular rejection (AVR) and systemic inflammation in xenograft recipients (SIXR) negatively impact the xenografts survival, and novel immunosuppressants are required to improve survival outcomes. We previously reported that TJ-M2010-5, a myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) inhibitor, exerts excellent anti-rejection effects in allogeneic transplantation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of TJ-M2010-5 in preventing AVR and SIXR and to investigate whether combined treatment of TJ-M2010-5 with anti-CD154 antibody (MR1) could prolong xenograft survival furthermore. A model involving heart transplantation from Sprague-Dawley rats to BALB/c mice was established in vivo , and the xenografts developed typical AVR. Bone marrow-derived dendritic cells and macrophages were cultured to study the underlying mechanisms induced by rat cardiomyocyte lysate stimulation in vitro. TJ-M2010-5 monotherapy prolonged xenograft survival, although combination treatment with MR1 further enhanced the anti-AVR and anti-SIXR effects with about 21 days graft survival, compared to monotherapy. TJ-M2010-5 reduced dendritic cell and macrophage activation induced by xenotransplantation, downregulated CD80/CD86 expression, suppressed B-cell activation and anti-donor antibody generation, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine production and tissue factor expression, and attenuated epigenetic modifications underlying interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α production in macrophages by inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B nuclear translocation. TJ-M2010-5 attenuated AVR and SIXR and contributed to xenograft survival by inhibiting dendritic cell and macrophage activation. A dual-system inhibition strategy combining TJ-M2010-5 with anti-CD154 antibody achieved better results in xenotransplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes albopictus is an important vector of arboviral diseases, transmitting yellow fever, dengue fever, chikungunya and Zika. Monitoring its population genetic diversity and genetic differentiation has become essential for the control of infectious disease epidemics, especially in the functional areas of ports of entry. Population genetic monitoring of Ae. albopictus in the port area can help in the monitoring of port mosquito invasions and establishing port sanitary and quarantine measures to prevent the introduction and transmission of vector-borne diseases. Seventeen populations of Ae. albopictus were collected from five port cities on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula, 8 populations were collected from port areas, 4 from urban areas and 5 from rural areas. Nine microsatellite loci and the mitochondrial COI gene were used to study the population genetic diversity, population genetic structure and interpopulation gene flow of Ae. albopictus. The nine microsatellite loci used were highly polymorphic, with an average PIC value of 0.768. The UPGMA genetic tree, STRUCTURE barplot and PCoA analyses showed that the 17 Ae. albopictus populations could be divided into three genetic groups. All 17 populations showed high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.8069–0.9678) and formed 133 distinct haplotypes. These haplotypes can be divided into four genetic clades, but they are not associated with the geographical distribution of Ae. albopictus. Fst and Nm showed strong gene flow and little differentiation among populations. Ae. albopictus in port areas are not significantly different from urban and rural populations due to strong gene flow, which prevents differentiation and increases the genetic diversity of the populations. High genetic diversity facilitates mosquito adaptation to complex environmental changes, which is a challenge for vector-borne disease control in port areas. • There was little differentiation among port, urban and rural Ae. albopictus populations. • There was strong gene flow among port, urban and rural Ae. albopictus populations. • The genetic diversity were all high in port, urban and rural Ae. albopictus populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of technology, the application of intelligent coal gangue sorting is more and more favored by coal mining enterprises. The coal gangue intelligent sorting system has higher requirements on the coal conveyor belt. The traditional transmission system has the problems of slow speed response, unstable operation, high energy consumption and jitter in the process of speed change. Using PLC, touch screen, frequency converter, RS-485, sensors and so on, the speed control and speed monitoring system of belt transport mechanism is constructed. By analyzing the error law of the system speed control and using Numpy system analysis and calculation, speed pre-compensation can be made. Then by controling speed precision through the PID and monitoring display through the time-speed curve, the real-time automation gives an alarm for abnormal speed situation. According to the speed requirement of the intelligent sorting system of coal gangue, the system can quickly reach the predetermined speed value, and effectively eliminate the shaking phenomenon in the process of changing speed. The system has strong universality, easy maintenance, and stable speed control, which is conducive to improving the reliability and efficiency of the intelligent sorting system for coal gangue and reduceing transmission mechanism wear caused by dithering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 caused by a novel coronavirus, a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has recently broken out worldwide. Up to now, the development of vaccine is still in the stage of clinical research, and there is no clinically approved specific antiviral drug for human coronavirus infection. The purpose of this study is to investigate the key molecules involved in response during SARS-CoV-2 infection and provide references for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. We conducted in-depth and comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of human proteins identified with SARS-CoV-2, including functional enrichment analysis, protein interaction network analysis, screening of hub genes, and evaluation of their potential as therapeutic targets. In addition, we used the gene-drug database to search for inhibitors of related biological targets. Several significant pathways, such as PKA, centrosome and transcriptional regulation, may greatly contribute to the development and progression of COVID-2019 disease. Taken together 15 drugs and 18 herb ingredients were screened as potential drugs for viral treatment. Specially, the trans-resveratrol can significantly reduce the expression of N protein of MERS-CoV and inhibit MERS-CoV. In addition, trans-resveratrol, Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and BX795 all show good anti multiple virus effects. Some drugs selected through our methods have been proven to have antiviral effects in previous studies. We aim to use global bioinformatics analysis to provide insights to assist in the design of new drugs and provide new choices for clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts located close to the extinct spreading ridge (ESR) in the South China Sea (SCS) have provided fundamental insight into postspreading magmatism. Long debates on the source and evolutional process of the postspreading seamounts are due to the lack of detailed structural crustal constraints. Here, we present three-dimensional (3D) crustal thickness and the Moho geometry of the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts and their surrounding area by forwarding and interpolating P-wave forward velocity structures along 14 seismic refraction and wide-angle profiles. We analyzed the variation in crustal velocity and thickness from the waning stage of seafloor spreading to the postspreading magmatism stage. Results show that the original oceanic crust, with an average thickness of 4.5 ± 0.7 km, is characterized by thin lower crust, thick upper crust, and low crustal velocity, compared with Atlantic oceanic crust, reflecting reduced magma supply and intense tectonic fracturing. Both the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts show high extrusion to intrusion ratio (2.6 and 2.7) and low P-wave velocities in the upper crust, indicating that extrusive processes are dominant during the postspreading volcanism in the SCS. The total magma volumes for building Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts are estimated to be 4995 km3 and 3674 km3, respectively, with a related volume flux of ∼0.032 m3/s and ∼ 0.023 m3/s. These values are larger than those of Longnan seamount (2884 km3, 0.018 m3/s) but smaller than those of plume-derived seamounts. The relationship between average lower crustal velocity and crustal thickness also indicates that the postspreading magma may not be caused by the higher degree of mantle melting driven by elevated temperature, but by multiple lower degree of melting caused partly by the enriched mantle. • Seismic structures of the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts based on refraction data. • Original oceanic crust is thin with low velocity. • Extrusion to intrusion ratios of post-spreading seamounts are close to 3. • Magma flux of post-spreading seamounts is smaller than plume-derived seamounts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathophysiology of psoriasis is a highly complicated one. Due to the disease's specificity, it not only affects the patient's skin negatively but also manifests systemic pathological changes. These clinical symptoms seriously harm the patient's physical and mental health. IFN, a common immunomodulatory factor, has been increasingly demonstrated to have a significant role in the development of psoriatic skin disease. Psoriasis is connected with a variety of immunological responses. New targets for the therapy of autoimmune skin diseases may emerge from further research on the mechanics of the associated IFN upstream and downstream pathways. Different forms of IFNs do not behave in the same manner in psoriasis, and understanding how different types of IFNs are involved in psoriasis may provide a better notion for future research. This review focuses on the involvement of three types of IFNs in psoriasis and related therapeutic investigations, briefly describing the three IFNs' production and signaling, as well as the dual effects of IFNs on the skin. It is intended that it would serve as a model for future research. [Display omitted] • IFN upstream and downstream modulation of psoriasis. • The role of IFN response in psoriasis treatment. • The potential of IFN-related reaction targets in psoriasis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel strategy for constructing a stable cathode material by modifying LiNi 0.7 Mn 0.3 O 2 (NM73) with CeO 2 to address the issues of interfacial degradation and significant capacity decay during cycling of Co-free materials. In this approach, Ce3+/Ce4+ is doped within the NM73 bulk material, while CeO 2 is coated on the surface of the bulk material to suppress the attack of electrolyte on the particle surface during cycling. As a result, the modified sample, Ce/NM-1.0, exhibits excellent cycling performance compared to the bare sample, NM73, with an initial discharge capacity of 181.7 mAh/g at a rate of 1C within the voltage range of 2.7 V–4.3 V, which is significantly higher than that of NM73 (164.7 mAh/g). Notably, the capacity retention rate of Ce/NM-1.0 after 200 cycles is 85.36%, whereas that of NM73 is only 78.93%. These results demonstrate that the strategy significantly improves the electrochemical performance and cycle stability of the modified material. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy characterizations indicate that the excellent discharge specific capacity is attributed to the Ce ions doping, while the excellent structural stability is attributed to the CeO 2 coating on the particle surface. This work provides valuable insights into the modification of other cathode materials to promote their commercialization. • A CeO 2 coating layer was fabricated on the surface of LiNi 0.7 Co 0.3 O 2 material by a solid phase annealing method. • Ce3+/Ce4+ were doped into the lattice of LiNi 0.7 Co 0.3 O 2 material to improve the Li+ diffusion coefficient and rate capacity. • The coating layer effectively protects the bulk material from attack by electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep crustal structure of the Northwest Sub-basin (NWSB) of the South China Sea (SCS) is of great importance for understanding the tectonic nature of the continent-ocean transition (COT) and magmatism in this oceanic basin. The 2-D wide-angle reflection/refraction seismic profile OBS2006-2 is almost parallel to the extinct spreading ridge (ESR) of the NWSB. In addition to the original data, we added the data of two reprocessed OBS stations, and carried out seismic phase re-picking and travel-time imaging to obtain the crustal velocity structure along this profile. Resolution tests demonstrate that the newly acquired velocity structure is more reliable than the prior interpretation. The depth of the Moho (23.5–11.8 km) and crustal thickness (20.5–6.5 km) systematically changes from continental crust of the Xisha Block to the oceanic crust within the NWSB. The COT zone has a width of ∼20 km and the depth of the Moho decreases from 15.0 to 11.0 km, corresponding to a ∼4 km decrease in crustal thickness (6–10 km). A high velocity layer (HVL, 7.2–7.4 km s−1) exists at the bottom of the crust at the location where the sharp lateral transition of the continental crust to the oceanic crust occurs. Age dating shows that the Double-peak Seamount was formed at ∼23 Ma, after the cessation of the NWSB seafloor spreading (∼32-25 Ma). The crust beneath the Double-peak Seamount is oceanic with a thickness of 9 km. We infer that this oceanic crust was formed by magmatic upwelling and decompression melting along a pre-existing zone of weakness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optical MEMS has become exceedingly popular because of its high performance and resistance to electromagnetic interference. A MEMS based Fabry–Pérot accelerometer consisting of a G-shaped mass-spring structure sensing chip, laser diode, cube beam splitter and photo translating system integrated by 3D printed sensor package is investigated. The sensitivity and resolution calibrated by intensity demodulation method are respectively, 183.793 V/g and 300 ng. The results show that the adopted G-shaped cantilever-mass structure sensing chip combined with the Fabry–Pérot interfere technology can obtain good performance, and the 3D printed sensor package makes the interference optical path and accelerometer more robust and portable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Obesity contributes to the development of mild cognitive impairment, but the potential role of normal weight obesity in this disease has not been explored in humans. The aim of the study was to reveal the relationship between normal weight obesity and mild cognitive impairment in elderly individuals. Methods: This study consisted of 360 patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment and 360 cognitively normal controls. Normal weight obesity was defined as having metabolic syndrome but a normal weight. Metabolic health meant having no metabolic syndrome. Reverse transcription quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was adopted to measure the messenger RNA expression of four cognitive‐related genes (amyloid precursor protein, cyclic adenosine monophosphate‐responsive element‐binding protein 1, sortilin‐related receptor 1, and synapsin I) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: Normal weight obesity was related to a higher risk of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (odds ratio = 3.14, 95% confidence interval: 2.13–4.60). In the patients, the expression of each gene in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells was linearly related to Mini‐Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores (P < 0.05). The expression of these genes in the patients with metabolic health deviated from the normal levels found in the controls (P < 0.05), and the deviations were more significant in the patients with normal weight obesity (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Normal weight obesity may be a potential risk factor for amnestic mild cognitive impairment in elderly. This relationship was reflected in the abnormal expression of several cognitive‐related genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical water splitting provides a promising pathway to produce hydrogen, but the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with sluggish kinetics is the bottleneck. The design and synthesis of high efficiency catalysts is the key to overcome the OER barrier. Herein, the surface-modified amorphous FeOOH on NiFe LDHs (FeOOH-a@NiFe LDHs) was synthesized by using a simple hydrothermal and electrodeposition method. The amorphous FeOOH on NiFe LDHs can provide more active sites for the adsorption and activation of *H 2 O and facilitate the interfacial electron transfer, which significantly accelerates the OER kinetics. The FeOOH-a@NiFe LDHs show low overpotentials of 237 mV and 252 mV to achieve 50 mA cm−2 and 100 mA cm−2 respectively, and the activity maintains above 90% after long-term testing at a high current density of 100 mA cm−2 for 500 h. Moreover, the water electrolysis device with the FeOOH-a@NiFe LDHs‖Pt/C(20%) as electrode requires only a low cell votage of 1.48 V to achieve 10 mA cm−2. This work provides an efficient OER catalyst which could serve as a potential catalyst for industrial electrocatalytic water splitting. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this review is to examine the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on people living with HIV (PLWH) and depression. A literature search from five electronic databases was conducted, and articles published until July 2017 were collected. The inclusion criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CBT that were conducted among PLWH with clinically relevant depression. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 2 was used to obtain pooled results. Seven RCTs, with a total sample size of 388 participants, met the inclusion criteria. Compared with the control group, the CBT group had statistically significant, short-term improvements in depression (g = −0.486, 95% CI [−0.969 to −0.003], P = 0.048). A significant reduction in viral load was also observed at the long-term follow-up (g = −0.306, 95% CI [−0.573 to −0.040], P = 0.024), but no improvements were found in CD4. Results of this meta-analysis showed that CBT is effective in reducing depression symptoms in PLWH with comorbid depression for a short period of time. However, the findings of this review may not be generalized in the clinical field due to the small number of involved studies and the limited study sample. Thus, more robust and adequately powered studies are needed to further explore CBT interventions in PLWH with depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work, we reported the thermoelectric performance of Sb doped n -type PbS can be improved through introducing different types of Cu inclusions (counter-doping, extra-adding and both of them). Firstly, Cu was selected to substitute Pb sites as counter-doping to tune the carrier density, resulting in maintaining power factor but a decreasing total thermal conductivity, thus in a maximum ZT (ZT max) ∼ 0.96 at 923 K in Pb 0.975 Sb 0.02 Cu 0.005 S. Then, we introduced extra Cu in n -type PbS to form interstitials to further reduce the lattice thermal conductivity to ∼0.77 W m − 1 K − 1 , and the ZT max was further enhanced to ∼1.06 at 923 K in Pb 0.98 Sb 0.02 S-0.02Cu. Finally, we combined both types of Cu (counter-doping and extra-adding) into n -type PbS, the power factor experiences slight reduction meanwhile the minimum lattice thermal conductivity can be reduced as low as ∼ 0.57 W m − 1 K − 1 at 923 K. Combining excellent power factor and dramatically reduced lattice thermal conductivity, we obtained a ZT max ∼1.23 at 923 K and the ZT ave ∼0.62 at 300–923 K in Pb 0.95 Sb 0.02 Cu 0.03 S-0.03Cu. This work provides a new idea to improve the thermoelectric performance in n -type PbS, indicating that PbS is one robust alternative of PbTe. Highlights • κ lat of n -type PbS is reduced from ∼ 1.33 Wm−1K−1 to ∼ 0.57 Wm−1K−1 at 923 K. • ZT max of n -type PbS is distinctly enhanced from 0.20 to 1.23 at 923 K. • ZT ave of n -type PbS is enhanced from 0.47 to 0.62 at 300–923 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The DEP1 (dense and erect panicle 1) gene, which corresponds to the erect panicle architecture, shows a pleiotropic effect in increasing grain yield and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in rice. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether the carbon−nitrogen metabolic balance changes as the dep1 allele enhances nitrogen uptake and assimilation. In this study, we generated transgenic Akitakomati plants by overexpressing dep1 and analyzed the carbon−nitrogen metabolic status, gene expression profiles, and grain yield and quality. Under either low or high nitrogen growth conditions, the carbon−nitrogen metabolic balance of dep1-overexpressed lines was broken in stem sheaths and leaves but not in grains; the dep1-overexpressed plants showed higher expressions of glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate synthase (GOGAT) genes than the wildtype, along with increased total nitrogen and soluble protein content in the straw at maturity. However, the ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RUBISCO) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) genes were downregulated in dep1-overexpressed plants, leading to a decreased carbohydrate content and carbon/nitrogen ratio. Although the unbalanced carbon−nitrogen metabolism decreased the grain-filling rate, grain setting percentage, 1000 grain weight, and grain quality in dep1-overexpressed lines, it led to increased grain numbers per panicle and consequently increased grain yield. Our results suggest that an unbalanced carbon−nitrogen metabolic status is a major limiting factor for further improving grain yield and quality in erect panicle varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An E-W oriented OBS2015-2 wide-angle refraction profile was shot in the northeastern South China Sea (SCS) between previous refraction profiles T1 and T2 in order to better understand the variability of the crustal composition and the role of specific tectonic features. P -wave velocity models established from forward and inversion modeling imaged a 12 to 15 km-thick thinned continental crust and a high velocity layer (HVL) in the lower crust which is interpreted as magmatic underplating. Profile OBS2015-2 cut across the Taiwan transfer zone (TTZ), which separates two consecutive rifted segments of different orientations in the northeastern SCS. The TTZ is a well-defined upper crustal feature characterized by a HVL with different thickness on both sides. We have defined the southward limit of the thinned continental domain with the typical oceanic domain as a continent-ocean boundary (COB). The COB between the drilling area of IODP legs 367–368 to the Manila trench is characterized by a sharp contrast between the low amplitude, irregular shape magnetic anomalies and the high amplitude, elongated shape magnetic anomalies, which are associated with the thinned continental domain and the oceanic domain, respectively. We further extend the COB into the 400 to 500 km wide unfolded Manila slab located east of the Manila trench by using mid-slab dVp tomographic velocities to define the boundary between subducted oceanic and thinned continental crust. The location of the reconstructed northeast SCS COB appears to step northwards toward Taiwan across a 400 km N-S segment, providing new constraints on SCS geodynamics at the end of spreading and Taiwan pre-collisional configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we shall give a refinement of the geometric realization of Lusztig’s algebra f given by Lusztig. This realization gives a geometric interpretation of the decomposition of f. As an application, we shall give geometric realizations of Lusztig’s symmetries on the whole quantum group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheological differences may lead to discrepant thinning order of the crust and lithospheric mantle when the continent is passively stretched. The crust breaks up earlier than the lithospheric mantle under a low stretching rate when the lower crust is strong; otherwise, the lithospheric mantle may break up earlier than the crust. Here we report a new high-resolution wide-angle seismic velocity model from ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) across the northern continental margin of the South China Sea (SCS). Significant crustal structure and deformation style discrepancies are observed from the proximal to distal margin of the northern SCS. High-velocity lower crust (HVLC) up to 10 km in thickness was observed below the Yunli uplift and the oceanward margin, indicating magmatic underplating, while nearly no HVLC was found below the highly extended landward sags. Seismic data showed a low ratio of upper/lower crustal thickness below the underplating area, presumably caused by magmatic accretion and lower crustal flow. Largely seaward-dipping faults with small vertical offsets were observed on the seaward side of the HVLC. The OBS and multichannel seismic data favor a model with the lithospheric mantle breaking up prior to the crust at the SCS. Based on the observed stratigraphic relationship and volcanic rocks dating results, we conclude that erosion of the sedimentary strata is synchronous to the magmatic underplating, which indicates that lithospheric mantle breakup occurred at ∼43–38 Ma. The northern central SCS breakup occurred in two steps, in which the lithospheric mantle broke up ∼10 Myr earlier than the crust (at ∼31–29 Ma). • A newly high-resolution wide-angle seismic velocity model across the northern margin of the South China Sea was reported. • Nearly 10 km-thick high-velocity lower crust was identified below the distal margin. • We proposed a model that the lithospheric mantle broken up prior to the crust at the SCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In [17] , Lusztig gave an explicit construction of the affine canonical basis by simple perverse sheaves. In this paper, we construct a bar-invariant basis by using a PBW basis arising from representations of the corresponding tame quiver. We prove that this bar-invariant basis coincides with Lusztig's canonical basis and obtains a concrete bijection between the elements in theses two bases. The index set of these bases is listed orderly by modules in preprojective, regular non-homogeneous, preinjective components and irreducible characters of symmetric groups. Our results are based on the work of Lin-Xiao-Zhang ([14]) and closely related with the work of Beck-Nakajima ([2]). A crucial method in our construction is a generalization of that in [8]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Te-free PbS has been regarded as a promising alternative candidate for PbTe thermoelectric materials due to its advances of low-cost, earth-abundant. In this work, we report an enhanced thermoelectric performance in n -type PbS system arising from synergistically optimized carrier and phonon transport properties. The electrical transport properties are optimized by tuning carrier concentrations via Sb doping, resulting in a maximum power factor of ∼16.7 μWcm −1 K −2  at 623 K, which is approximately tenfold higher than that of undoped PbS (∼1.8 μWcm −1 K −2 ). PbSe and PbTe co-alloying in PbS was carried out to reduce lattice thermal conductivity through introducing point defects scattering and second phase, resulting in a minimum lattice thermal conductivity ∼0.71 Wm −1 K −1  at 923 K. Combined the enhanced power factor with suppressed thermal conductivity, a maximum ZT value ∼1.0 was obtained in n -type (PbS) 0.53 (PbSe) 0.25 (PbTe) 0.2 Sb 0.02 at 923 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dog cloning using in vivo -matured oocytes has been carried out for a decade. To obtain mature oocytes, serum progesterone (P 4 ) levels are used to evaluate ovulation. However, the accuracy of these methods is not sufficient. Thus, the aim of the present study was to verify the feasibility of serum estradiol (E 2 ) on canine ovulation determination as assessed by the percentage of dogs yielding mature oocytes. In vivo -matured oocytes were utilized for canine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and serum P 4 and E 2 levels were assessed to determine ovulation and oocyte maturation. Canine serum P 4 and E 2 concentrations during both pro-estrus and estrus were analyzed by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. The percentage of dogs yielding mature oocytes using each of the two ovulation prediction methods were compared, and correlations between the percentage of each method and temperature were analyzed. Following evaluation, oocytes were collected surgically, and a significantly higher percentage ( P < 0.05) of dogs yielding mature oocytes was observed using E 2 (56.43%) for ovulation detection as compared with that using P 4 (39.60%). The percentage of dogs yielding mature oocytes using P 4 significantly lower ( P < 0.05) than E 2 in autumn (P 4 , 37.50% vs. E 2 , 52.00%) and winter (P 4 , 29.17% vs. E 2 , 59.09%). Using E 2 , the percentage was maintained at about 52.00–66.67% regardless of the season and temperature. Correlation analysis showed that the dynamic of percentage of dogs yielding mature oocyte using P 4 was highly correlated with environmental temperature (R P4 = 0.862), whereas E 2 was not affected by temperature (R E2 = 0.199). To determine whether serum E 2 could be used for ovulation prediction for canine cloning, ovulation of 25 and 19 dogs ( P < 0.05) were predicted using P 4 or E 2 methods, respectively and two puppies, one from each ovulation prediction method, were obtained after SCNT and embryo transfer. Thus, compared with the P 4 method, E 2 was an accurate and reliable method for canine cloning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine-assisted reproductive techniques have been successful for several years; however, the lack of an oocyte in vitro maturation system has limited their application. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of canine oviduct epithelial cells (cOECs) on canine oocyte maturation in vitro . Specifically, the method used for isolation of cOECs did not affect the expression of epithelial markers, E-cadherin and cytokeratin, on fresh, cultured and cryopreserved cells. Moreover, BrdU analysis showed that cOECs cultured in Medium 171 supplemented with mammary epithelial growth supplement were more proliferative than counterparts in advanced Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium or Medium 199. Maturation rate of canine oocytes collected from bitches at diestrus was significantly increased when oocytes were co-cultured with either fresh, cultured or frozen/thawed cOECs (13.23 ± 1.15%, 10.38 ± 4.89%, or 10.54 ± 2.96%, respectively) than that of control oocytes cultured without cOECs (2.48 ± 2.16%, p < 0.05). Additionally, the number of oocytes collected from bitches at estrus the reached metaphase II was increased ∼4 fold in co-culture with fresh, cultured, or frozen/thawed cOECs (47.2 ± 3.82%, 45.4 ± 7.34%, and 46.9 ± 1.51%, respectively) as compared with oocytes cultured without cOECs (11.9 ± 3.18%, p < 0.05). Nuclear maturation was further confirmed by assessing the formation of normal metaphase-II spindles, whereas cytoplasmic maturation was confirmed by inducing parthenogenetic oocyte activation. Embryonic development to the 8-cell stage was similar between in vivo and in vitro matured oocytes. These results suggested that co-culturing immature canine oocytes with cOECs facilitated canine oocyte maturation and early stages of embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we give geometric realizations of Lusztig's symmetries. We also give projective resolutions of a kind of standard modules. By using the geometric realizations and the projective resolutions, we obtain the categorification of the formulas of Lusztig's symmetries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radioactive immunoassay (RIA) is a traditional serum hormone assay method, but the application of the method in reproductive studies is limited by the associated radioactivity. The aim of present study was to evaluate the reliability of RIA and to compare its canine serum progesterone concentration determination accuracy to that of the electric chemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLI). In vivo matured oocytes were utilized for canine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and serum progesterone levels were assessed to accurately determine ovulation and oocyte maturation. Canine serum progesterone concentrations during both proestrus and estrus were analyzed by RIA and ECLI to determine the ovulation day. Although both methods detected similar progesterone levels before ovulation, the mean progesterone concentration determined using ECLI was significantly higher than of RIA three days before ovulation. Following ovulation, oocytes were collected by surgery, and a lower percentage of mature oocytes were observed using ECLI (39%) as compared to RIA (67%) if 4-8ng/ml of progesterone were used for determination of ovulation. A high percentage of mature oocytes was observed using ECLI when 6–15 ng/mL of progesterone was used for ovulation determination. To determine whether ECLI could be used for canine cloning, six canines were selected as oocyte donors, and two puppies were obtained after SCNT and embryo transfer. In conclusion, compared to the traditional RIA method, the ECLI method is a safe and reliable method for canine cloning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two earthquakes were recorded by 20 ocean bottom seismometers (OBS) deployed in the Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR) area during a three-dimensional seismic survey in 2010. Their magnitudes (both M = 4.4) and hypocenters have been determined by National Earthquake Information Center (NEIC) only using land seismic stations onset times. After the frequency analysis and the band-pass filtering of the OBSs' data, 7 and 13 P-phase onset times from OBSs were successfully picked for these two events, respectively. Then these two events were relocated by HYPOSAT program with onset times together from OBSs and land seismic stations using different velocity models. These relocation experiments confirm both the importance of adding OBSs' onset data and the need to apply a local oceanic velocity model for the location of these two events happened on the SWIR. This research has accumulated a wealth of experience for earthquakes observation and research using OBSs in the ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The probable N055°-oriented extinct spreading ridge of the East Sub-basin is cut across by the post-spreading volcanic ridge oriented approximately E-W in its western part and called the Zhenbei-Huangyan seamounts chain. A three-dimensional ocean bottom seismometer survey was conducted in 2011 and covered both the extinct spreading ridge and the Zhenbei-Huangyan seamounts chain in the East Sub-basin. The comprehensive seismic record sections of 39 ocean bottom seismometers underline the high-quality data with clear and reliable P-wave seismic first arrivals. The three-dimensional tomographic results show that the crust is oceanic on each side of the Zhenbei-Huangyan seamounts chain. The seafloor spreading lineaments and associated fracture zones pattern provide channels for magma migration and eruption. Based on the ratio of volcanic extrusive and intrusive materials and the shape of the upward convex 6.4 km/s iso-velocity curve beneath the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts, we conclude that the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts appear to be dominantly formed by intra-crustal intrusion. Combining previous geochemical studies of post-spreading volcanic ridge outcropping samples, the formation mechanism of the seamounts chain might be explained by a buoyancy-driven decompression melting mechanism occurring as separately evolving partial melting bodies beneath each seamount. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 140-km wide last phase of opening of the South China Sea (SCS) corresponds to a N145° direction of spreading with rift features identified on swath bathymetric data trending N055° (Sibuet et al., 2016). These N055° seafloor spreading features of the East Sub-basin are cut across by a post-spreading volcanic ridge oriented approximately E–W in its western part (Zhenbei–Huangyan seamounts chain). The knowledge of the deep crustal structure beneath this volcanic ridge is essential to elucidate not only the formation and tectonic evolution of the SCS, but also the mechanism of emplacement of the post-spreading magmatism. We use air-gun shots recorded by ocean bottom seismometers to image the deep crustal structure along the N–S oriented G8G0 seismic profile, which is perpendicular to the Zhenbei–Huangyan seamounts chain but located in between the Zhenbei and Huangyan seamounts, where topographic changes are minimum. The velocity structure presents obvious lateral variations. The crust north and south of the Zhenbei–Huangyan seamounts chain is ca. 4–6 km in thickness and velocities are largely comparable with those of normal oceanic crust of Atlantic type. To the south, the Jixiang seamount with a 7.2-km thick crust, seems to be a tiny post-spreading volcanic seamount intruded along the former extinct spreading ridge axis. In the central part, a 1.5-km thick low velocity zone (3.3–3.7 km/s) in the uppermost crust is explained by the presence of extrusive rocks intercalated with thin sedimentary layers as those drilled at IODP Site U1431. Both the Jixiang seamount and the Zhenbei–Huangyan seamounts chain started to form by the intrusion of decompressive melt resulting from the N–S post-spreading phase of extension and intruded through the already formed oceanic crust. The Jixiang seamount probably formed before the emplacement of the E–W post-spreading seamounts chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a symmetrizable Kac-Moody Lie algebra g, Lusztig introduced the corresponding modified quantized enveloping algebra $$\dot U$$ and its canonical basis $$\dot B$$ given by Lusztig in 1992. In this paper, in the case that g is a symmetric Kac-Moody Lie algebra of finite or affine type, the authors define a set $$\tilde M$$ which depends only on the root category R and prove that there is a bijection between $$\tilde M$$ and $$\dot B$$, where R is the T-orbit category of the bounded derived category of the corresponding Dynkin or tame quiver. The method in this paper is based on a result of Lin, Xiao and Zhang in 2011, which gives a PBW-type basis of U. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To evaluate the variations in macular thickness in young Chinese myopic persons and the association with axial length (AL), spherical equivalence refraction (SE), age, intraocular pressure, and sex. Methods. In total, 133 young Chinese myopic subjects between 18 and 30 years of age were selected. The macular thickness was assessed using third-generation optical coherence tomography. AL, intraocular pressure, and SE were also measured. Results. The mean central foveal thickness was 191.1±15.3 µm. The macula was consistently thinner in women than in men. Central foveal thickness had a significant positive correlation with AL and a negative correlation with SE. In the inner and outer regions, the macular thickness had a positive correlation with SE and negative correlation with AL. Conclusions. The retina was thinner in women than in men. Associated with myopic progression and AL extension, the central foveal thickness increased, while the retinal thickness of the inner and outer regions decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis type and heavy metal content significantly affect the performance of microwave hydrothermal synthesis. This synthesis approach has lower energy consumption and shorter reaction time for consolidating the heavy metals in the tobermorite lattice. The goal of this study was to investigate the influence of microwave reaction time and copper (Cu) content on the preparation of Cu-substituted tobermorite (Cu-tobermorite). Fumed silica, calcium hydroxide and copper chloride dihydrate were used to prepare the Cu-tobermorite under a liquid-solid ratio of 30 mL/g, reaction temperature of 220 ℃, and (Ca+Cu)/Si ratio of 0.83. The effect of reaction time (2 h and 4 h) and Cu content (Cu/Ca ratios are 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2) on the microstructure and morphology of the Cu-tobermorite were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry (TG), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Moreover, the solidification efficiency was assessed by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results showed that the main products of microwave synthesis were Cu-tobermorite and tobermorite, while the conventional hydrothermal synthesis products were Cu-tobermorite and gyrolite. Prolonging the elongation of the reaction time did not change the type of hydration product. Both microwave and traditional hydrothermal synthesis of tobermorite solidified Cu with a solidification rate of almost 100%. However, the microwave method provided a 1/7th shorter reaction time and less than 10% of the energy composition (< 10% [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selective swelling technique is adopted for the first time to construct positively charged membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels for vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). These membranes are prepared based on pyridine and adamantane groups containing poly(aryl ether ketone ketone) (PyAPEKK) polymer. Polymer chains with pyridine groups are selective swelled to form ion transport channels in the polymer membrane using the base-acid interaction between the pyridine groups and mineral acids (H 3 PO 4 and H 2 SO 4). The bulky, rigid, hydrophobic adamantane groups in the polymer increase the rigidity and hydrophobicity of the polymer backbone that reduce the swelling of the membrane and enhance the membrane selectivity. Consequently, a VRFB utilizing this PyAPEKK membrane exhibit impressive battery performance (CE = 98.9%, EE = 92.3% at 80 mA cm−2; CE = 99.3%, EE = 80.56% at 240 mAcm−2). The PyAPEKK membranes exhibited stable VRFB performance for more than 1500 cycles and exhibited excellent chemical stability in ex-situ stability tests. This work demonstrated a convenient, facile, and environmental-friendly way to fabricate advanced positively charged membranes for VRFB. [Display omitted] • Membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels are developed. • PyAPEKK membranes are first applied in VRFB. • PyAPEKK membranes exhibit low area resistance and high membrane selectivity. • PyAPEKK membranes yield a high energy efficiency of 80.6% at 240 mAcm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pore size, porosity and pore connectivity are important structural parameters that affect the mechanical strength and biological performance of a scaffold for bone tissue regeneration. A lotus-type porous nano-hydroxyapatite/polyurethane (n-HA/PU) scaffold was designed and fabricated, and its mechanical property and cell behavior were evaluated. The results showed that the scaffold had an anisotropic pore structure, the porosity was about 84% and the macropore size on cross-section was uniform, close to 600 µm. The mechanical properties also showed an anisotropic feature according to the oriented pore structure. When stress applied parallel to the pore orientation, the longitudinal compressive strength and elastic modulus were 3.52 MPa and 44.25 MPa respectively, much higher than the lateral 2.59 MPa and 10.42 MPa. Cell culture indicated that the lotus-type n-HA/PU scaffold exhibited good cell affinity and cytocompatibility, the proper pore size and high pore’s connectivity were favourable for cell infiltration into the inner part of the scaffold. The lotus-type n-HA/PU scaffold has promising prospect in bone tissue regeneration field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pressure sensors have important prospects in wind pressure monitoring of transmission line towers. Optical pressure sensors are more suitable for transmission line towers due to its anti-electromagnetic interference. However, the fiber pressure sensor is not a suitable choice due to expensive and bulky. In this paper, a compact optical Fabry–Pérot (FP) pressure sensor for wind pressure measurement was developed by MEMS technology. The pressure sensor consists of a MEMS sensing chip, a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (Vcsel), and a photodiode (PD). The sensing chip is combined with an FP cavity and a pressure sensing diaphragm which adopts the square film and is fabricated by Silicon on Insulator (SOI) wafer. To calibrate the pressure sensor, the experimental platform which consists of a digital pressure gauge, a pressure loading machine, a digital multimeter, and a laser driver was set up. The experimental results show that the sensitivity of the diaphragm is 117.5 nm/kPa. The measurement range and sensitivity of the pressure sensor are 0–700 Pa and 115 nA/kPa, respectively. The nonlinearity, repeatability, and hysteresis of the pressure sensor are 1.48%FS, 2.23%FS, and 1.59%FS, respectively, which lead to the pressure accuracy of 3.12%FS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microwave sintering can significantly decrease the sintering temperature of γ-C 2 S. • When carbonated, microwave sintered low-carbon cement exhibited excellent compressive strength. • The main carbonation products of low-carbon cement are calcite and silica gel. Low-carbon cement (LCC) with a main phase of γ-C 2 S exhibits excellent carbonation activity in the presence of moisture, but its sintering temperature in a conventional furnace is about 1400 °C, which consumes a huge amount of energy. To address the sustainability issues facing the preparation of γ-C 2 S, microwave sintering is increasingly recognized as a potential alternative due to its volumetric heating nature. In this study, LCC was prepared in a microwave furnace and a conventional furnace, respectively, and then followed by carbonation. Results show that microwave sintering can lower the sintering temperature by about 100 °C compared to the samples prepared in a conventional furnace. Moreover, when subjected to carbonation for 8 h, the sample prepared in the microwave furnace (M1250) developed higher compressive strength than that prepared in the conventional furnace (C1350). The main carbonation products of LCC are calcite and silica gel, which combine with uncarbonated particles to form flocculent and fibrous structures. The outcome will provide a reference for preparing low-carbon cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anion exchange membranes with attractive advantages are highly promising for vanadium flow battery (VRFB) applications, but high area resistance limits their uses in high-power-density VRFB. Increasing the ion exchange capacity (IEC) is long considered as the primary choice to enhance the membrane conductivity, which unfortunately results in highly swelling and much sacrifice of the membrane selectivity and stability. In this work, new quaternized phenyl and adamantane containing poly(aryl ether ketone ketone) (QPAPEKK) membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels are prepared. QPAPEKK membranes with much low IEC (0.62 mmol g−1) are selective swelled with H 3 PO 4 to form ion transport channels. Consequently, the area resistance of resulting QPAPEKK-110 membrane (0.24 Ω cm2) is nearly one-fifth of QPAEKK-virgin membrane (1.21 Ω cm2). Moreover, VRFB utilizing QPAPEKK-90 membrane exhibit impressive battery performance (energy efficiency 91.4% at 80 mAcm−2; energy efficiency 80.0% at 220 mAcm−2). The QPAPEKK membranes combined high battery performance and high chemical stability are promising for high-power density VRFB application. [Display omitted] • New anion exchange membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels are developed. • New anion exchange membrane based on novel adamantane containing poly(aryl ether)s are prepared. • QPAPEKK membranes are first applied in VRFB. • QPAPEKK membranes exhibit low area resistance and high membrane selectivity. • QPAPEKK membranes yield an impressive energy efficiency of 80.0% at 220 mAcm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anion exchange membranes with attractive advantages are highly promising for vanadium flow battery (VRFB) applications, but high area resistance limits their uses in high-power-density VRFB. Increasing the ion exchange capacity (IEC) is long considered as the primary choice to enhance the membrane conductivity, which unfortunately results in highly swelling and much sacrifice of the membrane selectivity and stability. In this work, new quaternized phenyl and adamantane containing poly(aryl ether ketone ketone) (QPAPEKK) membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels are prepared. QPAPEKK membranes with much low IEC (0.62 mmol g−1) are selective swelled with H 3 PO 4 to form ion transport channels. Consequently, the area resistance of resulting QPAPEKK-110 membrane (0.24 Ω cm2) is nearly one-fifth of QPAEKK-virgin membrane (1.21 Ω cm2). Moreover, VRFB utilizing QPAPEKK-90 membrane exhibit impressive battery performance (energy efficiency 91.4% at 80 mAcm−2; energy efficiency 80.0% at 220 mAcm−2). The QPAPEKK membranes combined high battery performance and high chemical stability are promising for high-power density VRFB application. [Display omitted] • New anion exchange membranes with selective swelling-induced ion transport channels are developed. • New anion exchange membrane based on novel adamantane containing poly(aryl ether)s are prepared. • QPAPEKK membranes are first applied in VRFB. • QPAPEKK membranes exhibit low area resistance and high membrane selectivity. • QPAPEKK membranes yield an impressive energy efficiency of 80.0% at 220 mAcm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]