γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the ...γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the Notch family of cell-surface receptors.Mutations inγ-secretase and amyloid precursor protein lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease.γ-Secretase has thus served as a critical drug target for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s disease as well.However,critical gaps remain in understanding the mechanisms of processive proteolysis of substrates,the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,and allosteric modulation of substrate cleavage byγ-secretase.In this review,we focus on recent studies of structural dynamic mechanisms ofγ-secretase.Different mechanisms,including the“Fit-Stay-Trim,”“Sliding-Unwinding,”and“Tilting-Unwinding,”have been proposed for substrate proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein byγ-secretase based on all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.While an incorrect registry of the Notch1 substrate was identified in the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Notch1-boundγ-secretase,molecular dynamics simulations on a resolved model of Notch1-boundγ-secretase that was reconstructed using the amyloid precursor protein-boundγ-secretase as a template successfully capturedγ-secretase activation for proper cleavages of both wildtype and mutant Notch,being consistent with biochemical experimental findings.The approach could be potentially applied to decipher the processing mechanisms of various substrates byγ-secretase.In addition,controversy over the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,particularly the issue of whether they stabilize or destabilizeγ-secretase-substrate complexes,is discussed.Finally,an outlook is provided for future studies ofγ-secretase,including pathways of substrate binding and product release,effects of modulators on familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations of theγ-secretase-substrate complexes.Comprehensive understanding of the functional mechanisms ofγ-secretase will greatly facilitate the rational design of effective drug molecules for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease in general.展开更多
Port structures constitute the main link in the maritime transport chain of coastal countries and therefore contribute to their economic development. But it should be noted that the installation of said works is not w...Port structures constitute the main link in the maritime transport chain of coastal countries and therefore contribute to their economic development. But it should be noted that the installation of said works is not without consequences for the countries concerned. Benin, a country in the Gulf of Guinea, is no exception to this phenomenon because, due to its maritime history, it has a heritage of port structures. These structures, built on its coastline, cause a wide variety of environmental problems such as silting and erosion on either side of them. The general objective of this article is to contribute to the proper functionality of port facilities while minimizing environmental problems that may arise. It aims to provide managers with a tool allowing them to fully understand the state of their assets in order to rationalize maintenance actions. In order to achieve this objective, an assessment of the state of the structure, and then a structural diagnosis are necessary and recommendations can be established to restore the level of service of the latter. As a result, two examples were presented: the wharf of the Sèmè-Podji pipeline project and the maritime piles project of the Wasco de Gama bridge (control project), and recommendations adapted to this objective were established. The comparative analysis of the two examples, both maritime works, revealed an under-sizing at the level of the spans of the wharf bridge of the Sèmè-Podji pipeline project (spans of 7 m in length), while these spans vary on average by 45 m to 62 m for the Wasco da Gama bridge. Bringing the piles closer together at the Sèmè-Podji wharf reduces the energy of the current which promotes the accumulation of sediment. The structure no longer experiences a flow capable of setting in motion the sands accumulated since at least 2022. This element appears to be a fundamental characteristic explaining the erosion observed to the east of the structure.展开更多
NLLoc is a nonlinear search positioning method.In this study,we use simulated arrival time data to quantitatively evaluate the NLLoc method from three aspects:arrival time picking accuracy,station distribution,and vel...NLLoc is a nonlinear search positioning method.In this study,we use simulated arrival time data to quantitatively evaluate the NLLoc method from three aspects:arrival time picking accuracy,station distribution,and velocity model.The results show that the NLLoc method exhibits high positioning accuracy and stability in terms of arrival time picking accuracy and station distribution;however,it is sensitive to the velocity model.The positioning accuracy is higher when the velocity model is smaller than the true velocity.We combined absolute and relative positioning methods.First,we use the NLLoc method for absolute positioning of seismic data and then the double difference positioning method for relative positioning to obtain a more accurate relocation result.Furthermore,we used the combined method to locate the earthquake sequence after collecting dense seismic array data on the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake that occurred on April 16,2021,in Hebei Province.By fitting the fault plane with the relocated earthquake sequences,the results show that the strike and dip angles of the seismogenic fault of the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake are 208.5°and 85.6°,respectively.This indicates a high-dip angle fault with North-North-East strike and North-West dip directions.Furthermore,we infer that the seismogenic fault of the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake is the Lulong fault.展开更多
Proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs)constitute a promising avenue for environmentally friendly power generation.However,the reliance on unsustainable platinum-based electrocatalysts used at the electrodes poses...Proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs)constitute a promising avenue for environmentally friendly power generation.However,the reliance on unsustainable platinum-based electrocatalysts used at the electrodes poses challenges to the commercial viability of PEMFCs.Non-platinum group metal(non-PGM)alternatives,like nitrogen-coordinated transition metals in atomic dispersion(M–N–C catalysts),show significant potential.This work presents a comparative study of two distinct sets of Fe–N–C materials,prepared by pyrolyzing hybrid composites of polyaniline(PANI)and iron(Ⅱ)chloride on a hard template.One set uses bipyridine(BPy)as an additional nitrogen source and iron ligand,offering an innovative approach.The findings reveal that the choice of pyrolysis temperature and atmosphere influences the catalyst properties.The use of ammonia in pyrolysis emerges as a crucial parameter for promoting atomic dispersion of iron,as well as increasing surface area and porosity.The optimal catalyst,prepared using BPy and ammonia,exhibits a half-wave potential of 0.834 V in 0.5 M H_(2)SO_(4)(catalyst loading of 0.6 mg cm^(-2)),a mass activity exceeding 3 A g^(-1)and high stability in acidic electrolyte,positioning it as a promising non-PGM structure in the field.展开更多
The variations in the mechanical and magnetic properties of cold-rolled 20Mn23AlV non-magnetic structural steel after annealing at different temperatures were investigated.The microstructure and precipitation changes ...The variations in the mechanical and magnetic properties of cold-rolled 20Mn23AlV non-magnetic structural steel after annealing at different temperatures were investigated.The microstructure and precipitation changes during annealing were studied by optical microscopy,scanning electron microscopy,and transmission electron microscopy.The results show that recrystallization completed after annealing at 620℃,resulting in grain sizes of approximately 800 nm and the best combination of strength and plasticity.The yield-to-tensile ratio of the non-magnetic structural steel after cold rolling continuously decreases from low to high temperatures after annealing,with the highest value being 0.89 and the lowest value being 0.43,indicating a wide range of yield-to-tensile ratio adjustment.The introduction of numerous dislocations during cold rolling provided favorable nucleation sites for precipitation,leading to abundant precipitation of the fine second-phase V(C,N).The phase composition of the samples remained unchanged as single-phase austenite after annealing,and the relative permeability values were calculated to be less than 1.002,meeting the requirements for non-magnetic steel in terms of magnetic properties.展开更多
According to specifications for Welding Procedure Qualification of ASME IX Section and Chinese code, JB 4708 2000, a software package for managing welding documents has been rebuilt. Consequently, the new software pa...According to specifications for Welding Procedure Qualification of ASME IX Section and Chinese code, JB 4708 2000, a software package for managing welding documents has been rebuilt. Consequently, the new software package can be used in a Limited Area Network (LAN) with 4 different levels of authorities for different users. Therefore, the welding documents, including DWPS (Design for Welding Procedure Specifications), PQRs (Procedure Qualification Records) and WPS (Welding Procedure Specifications) can be shared within a company. At the same time, the system provides users various functions such as browsing, copying, editing, searching and printing records, and helps users to make decision of whether a new PQR test is necessary or not according to the codes above as well. Furthermore, super users can also browse the history of record modification and retrieve the records when needed.展开更多
Three Epimedium species, E. pubescens Maxim., E. sagittatum （Sieb. ＆ Zucc.） Maxim., and E. wushanense T. S. Ying, which are sympatrically distributed in the western Hubei Province, have been used in traditional Chi...Three Epimedium species, E. pubescens Maxim., E. sagittatum （Sieb. ＆ Zucc.） Maxim., and E. wushanense T. S. Ying, which are sympatrically distributed in the western Hubei Province, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） for about 2,000 years. Genetic variability and population genetic structure of 11 natural populations of these Epimedium species were investigated using isoelectric focusing in thin-layer polyacrylamide slab gels. Of the 22 enzyme systems prescreened, six coding for 13 loci and 45 alleles were resolved, which were used for analyzing genetic diversity and population structure at both intraspecific and interspecific levels. The results showed that： l） high levels of genetic diversity were observed in all three species （A = 2.6-3.2, P = 69.2%-84.6%, Ho= 0.274-0.377, HE= 0.282-0.369）, which were higher than that of other herbaceous and aulmal-pollinated species with similar life-history characteristics; 2） there was significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium, with one half of the loci showing heterozygote excess and the other homozygote excess, in all populations, suggesting the complicated breeding system of Epimedium species; 3） the low level of intraspecific and interspecific genetic differentiation （GST= 0.0246-0.0409 and 0.0495-0.1213, respectively） indicated a high level of gene flow among populations and close genetic relationship among the three species; and 4） UPGMA cluster analysis further showed that E. pubescens was more closely related to E. sagittatum than to E. wushanense, which was in good agreement with the morphological characters and the recent phylogenetic analysis of these species. On the basis of these results, it was concluded that the mixed breeding system, long-lived perennial life form, ancient evolutionary history, and seed dispersal by ants in Epimedium are responsible for the genetic variation and population structure of these species.展开更多
Objective To examine the important roles of microRNAs （miRNAs） in regulating amphid structure and function, we performed a computational analysis for the genetic loci required for the sensory perception and their po...Objective To examine the important roles of microRNAs （miRNAs） in regulating amphid structure and function, we performed a computational analysis for the genetic loci required for the sensory perception and their possibly corresponding miRNAs in C. elegans. Methods Total 55 genetic loci required for the amphid structure and function were selected. Sequence alignment was combined with E value evaluation to investigate and identify the possible corresponding miRNAs. Results Total 30 genes among the 55 genetic loci selected have their possible corresponding regulatory miRNA（s）, and identified genes participate in the regulation of almost all aspects of amphid structure and function. In addition, our data suggest that both the amphid structure and the amphid functions might be regulated by a series of network signaling pathways. Moreover, the distribution of miRNAs along the 3＇ untranslated region （UTR） of these 30 genes exhibits different patterns. Conclusion We present the possible miRNA-mediated signaling pathways involved in the regulation of chemosensation and thermosensation by controlling the corresponding sensory neuron and interneuron functions. Our work will be useful for better understanding of the miRNA-mediated control of the chemotaxis and thermotaxis in C. elegans.展开更多
s Western Yunnan is located at the boundary of collision or underthrusting zone of Eurasian plate and is influenced by many times tectonic movements. With very complex geological environment and tectonic background, i...s Western Yunnan is located at the boundary of collision or underthrusting zone of Eurasian plate and is influenced by many times tectonic movements. With very complex geological environment and tectonic background, it is one of the seismically active areas. In the paper, the teleseismic records were selected from 16 national, local and mo-bile stations, including 4 very-wide-band mobile stations of PASSCAL. And nearly 2 000 receiver functions were extracted. Two measuring lines are 650 km and 450 km, respectively and across some major tectonic units in Western Yunnan. It is indicated that Nujiang might be a seam characterized by underthrusting. The western and eastern boundaries of Sichuan-Yunnan rhombus block, i.e., Honghe and Xiaojiang faults, might be an erection seam or collision belt. Panxi tectonic zone still has the characteristics of continental rift valley, that is, the surface is hollow and the upper mantle is upwarping. The tectonic situation in Western Yunnan is of certain regulation with the interlacing distribution of orogenic zone and seam. The crustal thickness decreases gradually from the north to the south and the S wave velocity is globally lower here.展开更多
A porous coral-structured Si/C composite as an anode material was fabricated by coating Si nanoparticles with a carbon layer from polyvinyl alcohol（PVA）, erosion of hydrofluoric（HF） acid, and secondary coating wit...A porous coral-structured Si/C composite as an anode material was fabricated by coating Si nanoparticles with a carbon layer from polyvinyl alcohol（PVA）, erosion of hydrofluoric（HF） acid, and secondary coating with pitch. Three samples with different pitch contents of 30%, 40% and 50% were synthesized. The composition and morphology of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffractometry（XRD） and scanning electron microscopy（SEM）, respectively, and the properties were tested by electrochemical measurements. The results indicated that the composites showed obviously enhanced electrochemical performance compared with that without secondary carbon coating. The second discharge capacity of the composite was 773 m A·h/g at a current density of 100 m A/g, and still retained 669 m A·h/g after 60 cycles with a small capacity fade of less than 0.23%/cycle, while the content of secondary carbon source of pitch was set at 40%. Therefore, the cycle stability of the composite could be excellently improved by regulating carbon content of secondary coating.展开更多
In order to enhance electrochemical properties of LiFePO4 （LFP） cathode materials, spherical porous nano/micro structured LFP/C cathode materials were synthesized by spray drying, followed by calcination. The result...In order to enhance electrochemical properties of LiFePO4 （LFP） cathode materials, spherical porous nano/micro structured LFP/C cathode materials were synthesized by spray drying, followed by calcination. The results show that the spherical precursors with the sizes of 0.5-5 μm can be completely converted to LFP/C when the calcination temperature is higher than 500 ℃. The LFP/C microspheres obtained at calcination temperature of 700 ℃ are composed of numerous particles with sizes of -20 nm, and have well-developed interconnected pore structure and large specific surface area of 28.77 mE/g. The specific discharge capacities of the LFP/C obtained at 700 ℃ are 162.43, 154.35 and 144.03 mA.h/g at 0.5C, 1C and 2C, respectively. Meanwhile, the capacity retentions can reach up to 100% after 50 cycles. The improved electrochemical properties of the materials are ascribed to a small Li＋ diffusion resistance and special structure of LFP/C microspheres.展开更多
The samples of the C-S-H series were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of fumed silica, CaO and deionized water at initial C/S ratios between 1.0-1.7. Phase composition and structural and morphology characteristics...The samples of the C-S-H series were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of fumed silica, CaO and deionized water at initial C/S ratios between 1.0-1.7. Phase composition and structural and morphology characteristics of C-S-H samples were analyzed by XRD, IR and SEM. The experimental results showed that the d-spacing of （002）, （110） and （020） decreased, the d-spacing of （200） increased, and the d-spacing of （310） varied randomly, the polymerization of silica tetrahedra of C-S-H decreased, and morphology of C-S-H samples varied from sheet shapes to long reticular fibers as C/S ratio increased.展开更多
The sonnet is a kind of lyrics with restrict forms which cannot depart from the contents. Shakespeare's sonnets are like a valuable flower blossoming in the England poetry garden during the age of Renaissance and ...The sonnet is a kind of lyrics with restrict forms which cannot depart from the contents. Shakespeare's sonnets are like a valuable flower blossoming in the England poetry garden during the age of Renaissance and a bright pearl sparkling in the world's poetry treasury. This paper will analyze his sonnets from the perspective of the structure and then interpret the meanings behind those words, which can demonstrate the importance of the connection between the forms and the contents.展开更多
Mosaic structure ZrC-SiC coatings were fabricated on low-density, porous C/C composites via thermal evaporation and an in-situ method. ZrC was packed in a typical lamellar mode, and the mosaic structure was formed by ...Mosaic structure ZrC-SiC coatings were fabricated on low-density, porous C/C composites via thermal evaporation and an in-situ method. ZrC was packed in a typical lamellar mode, and the mosaic structure was formed by the deposition of Zr and Si atoms on the shallow surface of the porous C/C composites.Ablation analysis showed that the defects in the coatings originate from the boundary between the ZrC and holes created by the consumption of SiC at 2500℃. After ablation for 200 s at 3000℃, a dense ZrO2 layer formed on the coating surface, and the defects were sealed owing to the continuous supply of ablative components. The mass and line ablation rates of the Zr C-SiC coatings were-0.46 ± 0.15 mg cm^-2·s^-1 and-1.00± 0.04 μm s^-1, respectively.展开更多
Firm joins were obtained between Ti（C,N）-based cermet and steel with Ag-Cu-Zn-Ni filler metal by vacuum brazing. The effects of technological parameters such as brazing temperature, holding time, and filler thicknes...Firm joins were obtained between Ti（C,N）-based cermet and steel with Ag-Cu-Zn-Ni filler metal by vacuum brazing. The effects of technological parameters such as brazing temperature, holding time, and filler thickness on the shear strength of the joints were investigated. The microstructure of welded area and the reaction products of the filler metal were examined by scanning electron microscopy （SEM）, metallographic microscope （OM）, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis （EDS）, and X-ray diffraction （XRD）. The brazing temperature of 870℃, holding time of 15 min, and filler thickness of 0.4 mm are a set of optimum technological parameters, under which the maximum shear strength of the joints, 176.5 MPa, is achieved. The results of microstructure show that the wettability of the filler metal on Ti（C,N）-based cermet and steel is well. A mutual solution layer and a diffusion layer exist between the welding base materials and the filler metal.展开更多
In this study,the casting process is used to fabricate modified polyvinyl alcohol(PVA),starch(S),and carboxymethyl cellulose(CMC)polymer blend films(PVA/S/CMC)loaded with various concentrations of irondoped carbon qua...In this study,the casting process is used to fabricate modified polyvinyl alcohol(PVA),starch(S),and carboxymethyl cellulose(CMC)polymer blend films(PVA/S/CMC)loaded with various concentrations of irondoped carbon quantum dots(Fe-CQDs)and denoted as(PVA/S/CMC@Fe-CQDs).A one-step microwave strategy was employed as a facile method to prepare Fe-CQDs.Through a series of characterization techniques,fourier-transform infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,x-ray diffraction(XRD)analysis,and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)have been used to show the successful integration of Fe-CQDs into the PVA/S/CMCmatrix.Loading the synthesized Fe-CQDs to the polymeric matrix significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of the films represented in the tensile strength,Young’s modulus,and hardness.However,the elongation decreased noticeably upon increasing the iron-doped carbon dots.The surface wettability was also studied by measuring the contact angle of the prepared films.The findings showed a noticeable elevation in these measurements by increasing the Fe-CQDs content,declaring the role of a hydrophobic character in these nanoparticles when introduced into a hydrophilic polymeric system.The dielectric characteristics of the reinforced polymer composite films were evaluated.These results revealed that the ac-conductivity of the investigated films was boosted with increasing Fe-CQDs’ratio and frequency.The PVA/S/CMC@Fe-CQDs films possess substantial potential for efficient energy storage applications.展开更多
A water-soluble pectin SB_~1-1 was isolated and purified from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. The HPLC analysis indicates that SB_~1-1 is homogenous. Its molecular weight was estimated via gel filtration to be 10...A water-soluble pectin SB_~1-1 was isolated and purified from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. The HPLC analysis indicates that SB_~1-1 is homogenous. Its molecular weight was estimated via gel filtration to be 10000. The GC analysis indicated that it contains the monosaccharides of GalA, Gal, Ara and Rha. Their molar ratio is 2.10∶1.00∶0.12∶0.13. Partial hydrolysis with acid, pectinase treatment, periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, methylation analyses, GC/MS analyses and NMR analyses were used for the structure analyses of SB_~1-1 . The results reveal that SB_~1-1 has a lower branched structure. The main chain is composed of GalA and Gal; the inner part is α-1,4-linked-GalA; the border is 1,4-linked-Gal. Some of the 1,4-linked-GalA and 1,4-linked-Gal residues are substituted at O6. On an average, there is one branch for every ten hexose residues. The side chain is composed of 1,6-linked-Gal and 1,3,6-linked-Gal. The nonreduced end is composed of Rha, Ara and Gal. The main glycosidic link of SB_~1-1 has an α configuration.展开更多
The electronic structure for C 60 was semi empirically investigated by using MD (molecular dynamics) and MNDO (modified neglect of diatomic overlap) approach of quantum chemistry.Especially,taking both σ and ...The electronic structure for C 60 was semi empirically investigated by using MD (molecular dynamics) and MNDO (modified neglect of diatomic overlap) approach of quantum chemistry.Especially,taking both σ and π orbitals into account,one electron energy levels,those symmetries and π orbital occupancies as well as electron excitation energies for different select rules,cohesive energy,ionization energies and electronic affinity forces were calculated.The obtained molecular orbital ratio shows a wide separation of σ and π types,and near HOMO and LUMO levels there are π orbitals mainly.The calculated semi empirical calculation results are in good agreement with experimental and ab initio calculation data.展开更多
Li–S battery is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation energy storage technology.However, the rapid capacity fading and low-energy-density limit its large-scale applications. Scholars invest a lot o...Li–S battery is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation energy storage technology.However, the rapid capacity fading and low-energy-density limit its large-scale applications. Scholars invest a lot of effort to introduce new materials. A neglected problem is that reasonable structure is as important as new material. In this review, four kinds of cathode structures were analyzed through morphology and electrochemical properties. The relationship between structures and properties was elaborated through reaction mechanism. The advantages and disadvantages of each structure were discussed. We hope the summary and discussion provide inspiration for structure design in Li–S battery cathode materials.展开更多
Inoculation with efficient microbes had been proved to be the most important way for the bioremediation of polluted environments. For the treatment of abandoned site of Beijing Coking Chemical Plant contaminated with ...Inoculation with efficient microbes had been proved to be the most important way for the bioremediation of polluted environments. For the treatment of abandoned site of Beijing Coking Chemical Plant contaminated with high level of high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons （HMW-PAHs）, a bacterial consortium capable of degrading HMW-PAHs, designated 1-18-1, was enriched and screened from HMW-PAHs contaminated soil. Its degrading ability was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography （HPLC）, and the community structure was investigated by construction and analyses of the 16S rRNA gene clone libraries （A, B and F） at different transfers. The results indicated that 1-18-1 was able to utilize pyrene, fluoranthene and benzo[a]pyrene as sole carbon and energy source for growth. The degradation rate of pyrene and fluoranthene reached 82.8% and 96.2% after incubation for 8 days at 30℃, respectively; while the degradation rate of benzo[a]pyrene was only 65.1% after incubation for 28 days at 30℃. Totally, 108, 100 and 100 valid clones were randomly selected and sequenced from the libraries A, B, and E Phylogenetic analyses showed that all the clones could be divided into 5 groups, Bacteroidetes, ct-Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, β-Proteobacteda and γ- Proteobacteria. Sequence similarity analyses showed total 39 operational taxonomic units （OTUs） in the libraries. The predominant bacterial groups were α-Proteobacteria （19 OTUs, 48.7%）, γ-Proteobacteria （90TUs, 23.1%） and β-Proteobacteria （80TUs, 20.5%）. During the transfer process, the proportions of α-Proteobacteria and β-Proteobacteria increased greatly （from 47% to 93%）, while γ-Proteobacteda decreased from 32% （library A） to 6% （library F）; and Bacteroidetes group disappeared in libraries B and F.展开更多
基金supported in part by Award 2121063 from National Science Foundation(to YM)AG66986 from the National Institutes of Health(to MSW).
文摘γ-Secretase,called“the proteasome of the membrane,”is a membrane-embedded protease complex that cleaves 150+peptide substrates with central roles in biology and medicine,including amyloid precursor protein and the Notch family of cell-surface receptors.Mutations inγ-secretase and amyloid precursor protein lead to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease.γ-Secretase has thus served as a critical drug target for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and the more common late-onset Alzheimer’s disease as well.However,critical gaps remain in understanding the mechanisms of processive proteolysis of substrates,the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,and allosteric modulation of substrate cleavage byγ-secretase.In this review,we focus on recent studies of structural dynamic mechanisms ofγ-secretase.Different mechanisms,including the“Fit-Stay-Trim,”“Sliding-Unwinding,”and“Tilting-Unwinding,”have been proposed for substrate proteolysis of amyloid precursor protein byγ-secretase based on all-atom molecular dynamics simulations.While an incorrect registry of the Notch1 substrate was identified in the cryo-electron microscopy structure of Notch1-boundγ-secretase,molecular dynamics simulations on a resolved model of Notch1-boundγ-secretase that was reconstructed using the amyloid precursor protein-boundγ-secretase as a template successfully capturedγ-secretase activation for proper cleavages of both wildtype and mutant Notch,being consistent with biochemical experimental findings.The approach could be potentially applied to decipher the processing mechanisms of various substrates byγ-secretase.In addition,controversy over the effects of familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations,particularly the issue of whether they stabilize or destabilizeγ-secretase-substrate complexes,is discussed.Finally,an outlook is provided for future studies ofγ-secretase,including pathways of substrate binding and product release,effects of modulators on familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations of theγ-secretase-substrate complexes.Comprehensive understanding of the functional mechanisms ofγ-secretase will greatly facilitate the rational design of effective drug molecules for treating familial Alzheimer’s disease and perhaps Alzheimer’s disease in general.
文摘Port structures constitute the main link in the maritime transport chain of coastal countries and therefore contribute to their economic development. But it should be noted that the installation of said works is not without consequences for the countries concerned. Benin, a country in the Gulf of Guinea, is no exception to this phenomenon because, due to its maritime history, it has a heritage of port structures. These structures, built on its coastline, cause a wide variety of environmental problems such as silting and erosion on either side of them. The general objective of this article is to contribute to the proper functionality of port facilities while minimizing environmental problems that may arise. It aims to provide managers with a tool allowing them to fully understand the state of their assets in order to rationalize maintenance actions. In order to achieve this objective, an assessment of the state of the structure, and then a structural diagnosis are necessary and recommendations can be established to restore the level of service of the latter. As a result, two examples were presented: the wharf of the Sèmè-Podji pipeline project and the maritime piles project of the Wasco de Gama bridge (control project), and recommendations adapted to this objective were established. The comparative analysis of the two examples, both maritime works, revealed an under-sizing at the level of the spans of the wharf bridge of the Sèmè-Podji pipeline project (spans of 7 m in length), while these spans vary on average by 45 m to 62 m for the Wasco da Gama bridge. Bringing the piles closer together at the Sèmè-Podji wharf reduces the energy of the current which promotes the accumulation of sediment. The structure no longer experiences a flow capable of setting in motion the sands accumulated since at least 2022. This element appears to be a fundamental characteristic explaining the erosion observed to the east of the structure.
基金Supported by the Foundation:This research project is jointly supported by Hebei Provincial Science and Technology Program(No.22375406D)The Earthquake Science and Technology Program of Hebei Province(No.DZ2023120500009,DZ2024120500001).
文摘NLLoc is a nonlinear search positioning method.In this study,we use simulated arrival time data to quantitatively evaluate the NLLoc method from three aspects:arrival time picking accuracy,station distribution,and velocity model.The results show that the NLLoc method exhibits high positioning accuracy and stability in terms of arrival time picking accuracy and station distribution;however,it is sensitive to the velocity model.The positioning accuracy is higher when the velocity model is smaller than the true velocity.We combined absolute and relative positioning methods.First,we use the NLLoc method for absolute positioning of seismic data and then the double difference positioning method for relative positioning to obtain a more accurate relocation result.Furthermore,we used the combined method to locate the earthquake sequence after collecting dense seismic array data on the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake that occurred on April 16,2021,in Hebei Province.By fitting the fault plane with the relocated earthquake sequences,the results show that the strike and dip angles of the seismogenic fault of the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake are 208.5°and 85.6°,respectively.This indicates a high-dip angle fault with North-North-East strike and North-West dip directions.Furthermore,we infer that the seismogenic fault of the Luanzhou M_(S)4.3 earthquake is the Lulong fault.
基金funding from the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation(HFRI)under grant agreement No 3655.
文摘Proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs)constitute a promising avenue for environmentally friendly power generation.However,the reliance on unsustainable platinum-based electrocatalysts used at the electrodes poses challenges to the commercial viability of PEMFCs.Non-platinum group metal(non-PGM)alternatives,like nitrogen-coordinated transition metals in atomic dispersion(M–N–C catalysts),show significant potential.This work presents a comparative study of two distinct sets of Fe–N–C materials,prepared by pyrolyzing hybrid composites of polyaniline(PANI)and iron(Ⅱ)chloride on a hard template.One set uses bipyridine(BPy)as an additional nitrogen source and iron ligand,offering an innovative approach.The findings reveal that the choice of pyrolysis temperature and atmosphere influences the catalyst properties.The use of ammonia in pyrolysis emerges as a crucial parameter for promoting atomic dispersion of iron,as well as increasing surface area and porosity.The optimal catalyst,prepared using BPy and ammonia,exhibits a half-wave potential of 0.834 V in 0.5 M H_(2)SO_(4)(catalyst loading of 0.6 mg cm^(-2)),a mass activity exceeding 3 A g^(-1)and high stability in acidic electrolyte,positioning it as a promising non-PGM structure in the field.
基金support from the Gansu Province Science and Technology Major Project(22ZD6GA008)Commissioner for Science,Technology Program of China Gansu Province(23CXA0013)+1 种基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(52061022)Jiayuguan City Science and Technology Major Project of China Gansu Province(22-02).
文摘The variations in the mechanical and magnetic properties of cold-rolled 20Mn23AlV non-magnetic structural steel after annealing at different temperatures were investigated.The microstructure and precipitation changes during annealing were studied by optical microscopy,scanning electron microscopy,and transmission electron microscopy.The results show that recrystallization completed after annealing at 620℃,resulting in grain sizes of approximately 800 nm and the best combination of strength and plasticity.The yield-to-tensile ratio of the non-magnetic structural steel after cold rolling continuously decreases from low to high temperatures after annealing,with the highest value being 0.89 and the lowest value being 0.43,indicating a wide range of yield-to-tensile ratio adjustment.The introduction of numerous dislocations during cold rolling provided favorable nucleation sites for precipitation,leading to abundant precipitation of the fine second-phase V(C,N).The phase composition of the samples remained unchanged as single-phase austenite after annealing,and the relative permeability values were calculated to be less than 1.002,meeting the requirements for non-magnetic steel in terms of magnetic properties.
文摘According to specifications for Welding Procedure Qualification of ASME IX Section and Chinese code, JB 4708 2000, a software package for managing welding documents has been rebuilt. Consequently, the new software package can be used in a Limited Area Network (LAN) with 4 different levels of authorities for different users. Therefore, the welding documents, including DWPS (Design for Welding Procedure Specifications), PQRs (Procedure Qualification Records) and WPS (Welding Procedure Specifications) can be shared within a company. At the same time, the system provides users various functions such as browsing, copying, editing, searching and printing records, and helps users to make decision of whether a new PQR test is necessary or not according to the codes above as well. Furthermore, super users can also browse the history of record modification and retrieve the records when needed.
基金This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 30570171), 100 Talents Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences (No. 05045112), and Wuhan Chenguang Project (No. 20055003059-45).
文摘Three Epimedium species, E. pubescens Maxim., E. sagittatum （Sieb. ＆ Zucc.） Maxim., and E. wushanense T. S. Ying, which are sympatrically distributed in the western Hubei Province, have been used in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM） for about 2,000 years. Genetic variability and population genetic structure of 11 natural populations of these Epimedium species were investigated using isoelectric focusing in thin-layer polyacrylamide slab gels. Of the 22 enzyme systems prescreened, six coding for 13 loci and 45 alleles were resolved, which were used for analyzing genetic diversity and population structure at both intraspecific and interspecific levels. The results showed that： l） high levels of genetic diversity were observed in all three species （A = 2.6-3.2, P = 69.2%-84.6%, Ho= 0.274-0.377, HE= 0.282-0.369）, which were higher than that of other herbaceous and aulmal-pollinated species with similar life-history characteristics; 2） there was significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium, with one half of the loci showing heterozygote excess and the other homozygote excess, in all populations, suggesting the complicated breeding system of Epimedium species; 3） the low level of intraspecific and interspecific genetic differentiation （GST= 0.0246-0.0409 and 0.0495-0.1213, respectively） indicated a high level of gene flow among populations and close genetic relationship among the three species; and 4） UPGMA cluster analysis further showed that E. pubescens was more closely related to E. sagittatum than to E. wushanense, which was in good agreement with the morphological characters and the recent phylogenetic analysis of these species. On the basis of these results, it was concluded that the mixed breeding system, long-lived perennial life form, ancient evolutionary history, and seed dispersal by ants in Epimedium are responsible for the genetic variation and population structure of these species.
文摘Objective To examine the important roles of microRNAs （miRNAs） in regulating amphid structure and function, we performed a computational analysis for the genetic loci required for the sensory perception and their possibly corresponding miRNAs in C. elegans. Methods Total 55 genetic loci required for the amphid structure and function were selected. Sequence alignment was combined with E value evaluation to investigate and identify the possible corresponding miRNAs. Results Total 30 genes among the 55 genetic loci selected have their possible corresponding regulatory miRNA（s）, and identified genes participate in the regulation of almost all aspects of amphid structure and function. In addition, our data suggest that both the amphid structure and the amphid functions might be regulated by a series of network signaling pathways. Moreover, the distribution of miRNAs along the 3＇ untranslated region （UTR） of these 30 genes exhibits different patterns. Conclusion We present the possible miRNA-mediated signaling pathways involved in the regulation of chemosensation and thermosensation by controlling the corresponding sensory neuron and interneuron functions. Our work will be useful for better understanding of the miRNA-mediated control of the chemotaxis and thermotaxis in C. elegans.
基金State Key Basic Research Development and Programming Project of China (G1998040700).
文摘s Western Yunnan is located at the boundary of collision or underthrusting zone of Eurasian plate and is influenced by many times tectonic movements. With very complex geological environment and tectonic background, it is one of the seismically active areas. In the paper, the teleseismic records were selected from 16 national, local and mo-bile stations, including 4 very-wide-band mobile stations of PASSCAL. And nearly 2 000 receiver functions were extracted. Two measuring lines are 650 km and 450 km, respectively and across some major tectonic units in Western Yunnan. It is indicated that Nujiang might be a seam characterized by underthrusting. The western and eastern boundaries of Sichuan-Yunnan rhombus block, i.e., Honghe and Xiaojiang faults, might be an erection seam or collision belt. Panxi tectonic zone still has the characteristics of continental rift valley, that is, the surface is hollow and the upper mantle is upwarping. The tectonic situation in Western Yunnan is of certain regulation with the interlacing distribution of orogenic zone and seam. The crustal thickness decreases gradually from the north to the south and the S wave velocity is globally lower here.
基金Project(11204090)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaProject(2013KJCX0050)supported by the Department of Education of Guangdong Province+6 种基金ChinaProjects(2014B0404040672014A0404010052015A0404040432015A090905003201508030033)supported by the Scientific and Technological Plan of Guangdong Province and Guangzhou CityChina
文摘A porous coral-structured Si/C composite as an anode material was fabricated by coating Si nanoparticles with a carbon layer from polyvinyl alcohol（PVA）, erosion of hydrofluoric（HF） acid, and secondary coating with pitch. Three samples with different pitch contents of 30%, 40% and 50% were synthesized. The composition and morphology of the composites were characterized by X-ray diffractometry（XRD） and scanning electron microscopy（SEM）, respectively, and the properties were tested by electrochemical measurements. The results indicated that the composites showed obviously enhanced electrochemical performance compared with that without secondary carbon coating. The second discharge capacity of the composite was 773 m A·h/g at a current density of 100 m A/g, and still retained 669 m A·h/g after 60 cycles with a small capacity fade of less than 0.23%/cycle, while the content of secondary carbon source of pitch was set at 40%. Therefore, the cycle stability of the composite could be excellently improved by regulating carbon content of secondary coating.
基金Project(2013AA050901)supported by the National High-tech Research and Development Program of China
文摘In order to enhance electrochemical properties of LiFePO4 （LFP） cathode materials, spherical porous nano/micro structured LFP/C cathode materials were synthesized by spray drying, followed by calcination. The results show that the spherical precursors with the sizes of 0.5-5 μm can be completely converted to LFP/C when the calcination temperature is higher than 500 ℃. The LFP/C microspheres obtained at calcination temperature of 700 ℃ are composed of numerous particles with sizes of -20 nm, and have well-developed interconnected pore structure and large specific surface area of 28.77 mE/g. The specific discharge capacities of the LFP/C obtained at 700 ℃ are 162.43, 154.35 and 144.03 mA.h/g at 0.5C, 1C and 2C, respectively. Meanwhile, the capacity retentions can reach up to 100% after 50 cycles. The improved electrochemical properties of the materials are ascribed to a small Li＋ diffusion resistance and special structure of LFP/C microspheres.
基金Funded by the National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program) (No. 2009CB623201)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.51072150)
文摘The samples of the C-S-H series were synthesized by hydrothermal reaction of fumed silica, CaO and deionized water at initial C/S ratios between 1.0-1.7. Phase composition and structural and morphology characteristics of C-S-H samples were analyzed by XRD, IR and SEM. The experimental results showed that the d-spacing of （002）, （110） and （020） decreased, the d-spacing of （200） increased, and the d-spacing of （310） varied randomly, the polymerization of silica tetrahedra of C-S-H decreased, and morphology of C-S-H samples varied from sheet shapes to long reticular fibers as C/S ratio increased.
文摘The sonnet is a kind of lyrics with restrict forms which cannot depart from the contents. Shakespeare's sonnets are like a valuable flower blossoming in the England poetry garden during the age of Renaissance and a bright pearl sparkling in the world's poetry treasury. This paper will analyze his sonnets from the perspective of the structure and then interpret the meanings behind those words, which can demonstrate the importance of the connection between the forms and the contents.
基金supported by National Science Foundation of China (No. 51405522)the self-fund of State Key Laboratory for Powder Metallurgy (PM-CSU-2015-03)
文摘Mosaic structure ZrC-SiC coatings were fabricated on low-density, porous C/C composites via thermal evaporation and an in-situ method. ZrC was packed in a typical lamellar mode, and the mosaic structure was formed by the deposition of Zr and Si atoms on the shallow surface of the porous C/C composites.Ablation analysis showed that the defects in the coatings originate from the boundary between the ZrC and holes created by the consumption of SiC at 2500℃. After ablation for 200 s at 3000℃, a dense ZrO2 layer formed on the coating surface, and the defects were sealed owing to the continuous supply of ablative components. The mass and line ablation rates of the Zr C-SiC coatings were-0.46 ± 0.15 mg cm^-2·s^-1 and-1.00± 0.04 μm s^-1, respectively.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 50074014)
文摘Firm joins were obtained between Ti（C,N）-based cermet and steel with Ag-Cu-Zn-Ni filler metal by vacuum brazing. The effects of technological parameters such as brazing temperature, holding time, and filler thickness on the shear strength of the joints were investigated. The microstructure of welded area and the reaction products of the filler metal were examined by scanning electron microscopy （SEM）, metallographic microscope （OM）, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis （EDS）, and X-ray diffraction （XRD）. The brazing temperature of 870℃, holding time of 15 min, and filler thickness of 0.4 mm are a set of optimum technological parameters, under which the maximum shear strength of the joints, 176.5 MPa, is achieved. The results of microstructure show that the wettability of the filler metal on Ti（C,N）-based cermet and steel is well. A mutual solution layer and a diffusion layer exist between the welding base materials and the filler metal.
文摘In this study,the casting process is used to fabricate modified polyvinyl alcohol(PVA),starch(S),and carboxymethyl cellulose(CMC)polymer blend films(PVA/S/CMC)loaded with various concentrations of irondoped carbon quantum dots(Fe-CQDs)and denoted as(PVA/S/CMC@Fe-CQDs).A one-step microwave strategy was employed as a facile method to prepare Fe-CQDs.Through a series of characterization techniques,fourier-transform infrared(FTIR)spectroscopy,x-ray diffraction(XRD)analysis,and scanning electron microscopy(SEM)have been used to show the successful integration of Fe-CQDs into the PVA/S/CMCmatrix.Loading the synthesized Fe-CQDs to the polymeric matrix significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of the films represented in the tensile strength,Young’s modulus,and hardness.However,the elongation decreased noticeably upon increasing the iron-doped carbon dots.The surface wettability was also studied by measuring the contact angle of the prepared films.The findings showed a noticeable elevation in these measurements by increasing the Fe-CQDs content,declaring the role of a hydrophobic character in these nanoparticles when introduced into a hydrophilic polymeric system.The dielectric characteristics of the reinforced polymer composite films were evaluated.These results revealed that the ac-conductivity of the investigated films was boosted with increasing Fe-CQDs’ratio and frequency.The PVA/S/CMC@Fe-CQDs films possess substantial potential for efficient energy storage applications.
文摘A water-soluble pectin SB_~1-1 was isolated and purified from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Mey. The HPLC analysis indicates that SB_~1-1 is homogenous. Its molecular weight was estimated via gel filtration to be 10000. The GC analysis indicated that it contains the monosaccharides of GalA, Gal, Ara and Rha. Their molar ratio is 2.10∶1.00∶0.12∶0.13. Partial hydrolysis with acid, pectinase treatment, periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, methylation analyses, GC/MS analyses and NMR analyses were used for the structure analyses of SB_~1-1 . The results reveal that SB_~1-1 has a lower branched structure. The main chain is composed of GalA and Gal; the inner part is α-1,4-linked-GalA; the border is 1,4-linked-Gal. Some of the 1,4-linked-GalA and 1,4-linked-Gal residues are substituted at O6. On an average, there is one branch for every ten hexose residues. The side chain is composed of 1,6-linked-Gal and 1,3,6-linked-Gal. The nonreduced end is composed of Rha, Ara and Gal. The main glycosidic link of SB_~1-1 has an α configuration.
文摘The electronic structure for C 60 was semi empirically investigated by using MD (molecular dynamics) and MNDO (modified neglect of diatomic overlap) approach of quantum chemistry.Especially,taking both σ and π orbitals into account,one electron energy levels,those symmetries and π orbital occupancies as well as electron excitation energies for different select rules,cohesive energy,ionization energies and electronic affinity forces were calculated.The obtained molecular orbital ratio shows a wide separation of σ and π types,and near HOMO and LUMO levels there are π orbitals mainly.The calculated semi empirical calculation results are in good agreement with experimental and ab initio calculation data.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.21273058 and 21673064)Harbin Technological Achievements Transformation Projects(No.2016DB4AG023)Harbin Institute of Technology Environment and Ecology Innovation Special Funds(No.HSCJ201620)
文摘Li–S battery is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation energy storage technology.However, the rapid capacity fading and low-energy-density limit its large-scale applications. Scholars invest a lot of effort to introduce new materials. A neglected problem is that reasonable structure is as important as new material. In this review, four kinds of cathode structures were analyzed through morphology and electrochemical properties. The relationship between structures and properties was elaborated through reaction mechanism. The advantages and disadvantages of each structure were discussed. We hope the summary and discussion provide inspiration for structure design in Li–S battery cathode materials.
基金supported by the Knowledge Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(No. KSCS2-YW-G-055-01)the High-Tech Research and Development Program(863)of China(No.2006AA06Z316)the Program of Beijing Academy of Science Technology(No.IE012009610019-1)
文摘Inoculation with efficient microbes had been proved to be the most important way for the bioremediation of polluted environments. For the treatment of abandoned site of Beijing Coking Chemical Plant contaminated with high level of high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons （HMW-PAHs）, a bacterial consortium capable of degrading HMW-PAHs, designated 1-18-1, was enriched and screened from HMW-PAHs contaminated soil. Its degrading ability was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography （HPLC）, and the community structure was investigated by construction and analyses of the 16S rRNA gene clone libraries （A, B and F） at different transfers. The results indicated that 1-18-1 was able to utilize pyrene, fluoranthene and benzo[a]pyrene as sole carbon and energy source for growth. The degradation rate of pyrene and fluoranthene reached 82.8% and 96.2% after incubation for 8 days at 30℃, respectively; while the degradation rate of benzo[a]pyrene was only 65.1% after incubation for 28 days at 30℃. Totally, 108, 100 and 100 valid clones were randomly selected and sequenced from the libraries A, B, and E Phylogenetic analyses showed that all the clones could be divided into 5 groups, Bacteroidetes, ct-Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, β-Proteobacteda and γ- Proteobacteria. Sequence similarity analyses showed total 39 operational taxonomic units （OTUs） in the libraries. The predominant bacterial groups were α-Proteobacteria （19 OTUs, 48.7%）, γ-Proteobacteria （90TUs, 23.1%） and β-Proteobacteria （80TUs, 20.5%）. During the transfer process, the proportions of α-Proteobacteria and β-Proteobacteria increased greatly （from 47% to 93%）, while γ-Proteobacteda decreased from 32% （library A） to 6% （library F）; and Bacteroidetes group disappeared in libraries B and F.
