Demand Side Management(DSM)is a vital issue in smart grids,given the time-varying user demand for electricity and power generation cost over a day.On the other hand,wireless communications with ubiquitous connectivity...Demand Side Management(DSM)is a vital issue in smart grids,given the time-varying user demand for electricity and power generation cost over a day.On the other hand,wireless communications with ubiquitous connectivity and low latency have emerged as a suitable option for smart grid.The design of any DSM system using a wireless network must consider the wireless link impairments,which is missing in existing literature.In this paper,we propose a DSM system using a Real-Time Pricing(RTP)mechanism and a wireless Neighborhood Area Network(NAN)with data transfer uncertainty.A Zigbee-based Internet of Things(IoT)model is considered for the communication infrastructure of the NAN.A sample NAN employing XBee and Raspberry Pi modules is also implemented in real-world settings to evaluate its reliability in transferring smart grid data over a wireless link.The proposed DSM system determines the optimal price corresponding to the optimum system welfare based on the two-way wireless communications among users,decision-makers,and energy providers.A novel cost function is adopted to reduce the impact of changes in user numbers on electricity prices.Simulation results indicate that the proposed system benefits users and energy providers.Furthermore,experimental results demonstrate that the success rate of data transfer significantly varies over the implemented wireless NAN,which can substantially impact the performance of the proposed DSM system.Further simulations are then carried out to quantify and analyze the impact of wireless communications on the electricity price,user welfare,and provider welfare.展开更多
Dry reforming of methane(DRM)over Ni-based catalysts is an economically reasonable technology for large-scale CO_(2)utilization.However,prolonged Ni sintering and carbon deposition reduce the durability and efficiency...Dry reforming of methane(DRM)over Ni-based catalysts is an economically reasonable technology for large-scale CO_(2)utilization.However,prolonged Ni sintering and carbon deposition reduce the durability and efficiency of DRM,hindering its engineering application.Herein,we propose a facile approach by combining continuous microscale coprecipitation with solid-state reactions to construct a BaAl_(2)O_(4)-overlayer-confined Ni catalyst.The 5-wt%-Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)catalyst exhibited advanced CO_(2)and CH_(4)conversions of 96% and 86% at 800℃ and a GHSV of 144 L g_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1).Moreover,the k_(d)-CO_(2)and k_(d)-CH_(4)of Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)were 0.0063 and 0.0029 h^(-1);which are approximately half and one-thirds of those of Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)and slightly better than those of Ni@MgAl_(2)O_(4),underscoring the versatility of the proposed synthesis protocol for constructing core-shell structures.XAS,HAADF-STEM-EDS,and CO transmission-IR characterizations confirmed the SMSI of~2-nm amorphous BaAl_(2)O_(4)-overlaid~10 nm Ni with an overall mesoporous structure.After a long-term test,the sintering and coking inhibition effects of Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)(10→11 nm,0.55 mgCg_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1))outperformed Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)(13→22 nm,1.90 mgCg_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1))and Ni@MgAl_(2)O_(4).In situ time-resolved CH4→CO_(2)transient response,DRIFTS experiments,and DFT calculations suggested that Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)and Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)followed the Mars-van Krevelen and Langmuir-Hinshelwood redox mechanisms,respectively.The functional interfacial lattice oxygen promoted the removal of C_(ads)^(*)on Ni and core-shell structure induced fast CO_(2)adsorption and CO desorption.The present study provides a facile approach for constructing a stable and active Ni-based core-shell catalyst.Furthermore,it offers novel insights into the functionalities of non-reducible spinel overlayers in the DRM process.展开更多
We study fundamental dark-bright solitons and the interaction of vector nonlinear Schr?dinger equations in both focusing and defocusing regimes.Classification of possible types of soliton solutions is given.There are ...We study fundamental dark-bright solitons and the interaction of vector nonlinear Schr?dinger equations in both focusing and defocusing regimes.Classification of possible types of soliton solutions is given.There are two types of solitons in the defocusing case and four types of solitons in the focusing case.The number of possible variations of two-soliton solutions depends on this classification.We demonstrate that only special types of two-soliton solutions in the focusing regime can generate breathers of the scalar nonlinear Schr?dinger equation.The cases of solitons with equal and unequal velocities in the superposition are considered.Numerical simulations confirm the validity of our exact solutions.展开更多
Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.En...Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.Enhancing reproductive drought tolerance in maize requires elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying its response to drought stress,which can then be incorporated into the development of new maize varieties through breeding programs.Additionally,innovative cultivation practices must be devised to complement these genetic improvements.In this review,the timing,duration,and severity of drought stress during the reproductive stage and their effects on maize kernel set are assessed,providing a basis for constructing a framework that links kernel setting to drought stress.Based on this framework,reproductive drought tolerance from tasseling through post-fertilization kernel establishment is subsequently examined.Evidence indicates that drought-induced fertilization failure is primarily due to delayed pollination resulting from slower silk elongation,which is caused by the loss of cell turgor and reduced carbon supply.Meanwhile,kernel abortion after fertilization is mainly triggered by carbohydrate starvation,increased ethylene emission,and the accumulation of abscisic acid(ABA).Therefore,sugar metabolism,hydraulic status,and hormone signaling collectively regulate maize's kernel setting tolerance to drought stress in a synergistic manner.Several novel gene candidates with potential for conferring drought tolerance in maize have been identified,offering promising targets for genetic improvement through genome editing combined with targeted cultivation practices to enhance maize drought tolerance and ensure stable grain yield in future crops.展开更多
Purpose:This study investigated the effects of obesity on breast size,thoracic spine structure and function,upper torso musculoskeletal pain and physical activity participation in women living independently in the com...Purpose:This study investigated the effects of obesity on breast size,thoracic spine structure and function,upper torso musculoskeletal pain and physical activity participation in women living independently in the community.Methods:A total of 378 women were divided into 3 groups(Not Overweight:body mass index(BMI)=22.5±0.2 kg/m^2(mean±SE);Overweight:BMI=27.4±0.3 kg/m^2;Obese:BMI=35.4±0.3 kg/m^2).Outcome variables of breast volume(mL),thoracic flexion torque(N·m),thoracic kyphosis(degrees),upper torso musculoskeletal pain(score) and time spent in physical activity(min) were calculated and compared among the 3 groups,adjusting for between-group differences in age.Results:There was a significant main effect of BMI on all outcome variables.Participants classified as Obese displayed significantly larger breasts,had greater thoracic flexion torques and reported less time participating in physical activity relative to the participants who were classified as Not Overweight and Overweight.Participants in the Obese group also displayed significantly more thoracic kyphosis and reported significantly more upper torso musculoskeletal pain compared to their counterparts who were classified as Not Overweight.Conclusion:This study is the first to demonstrate that increased obesity levels were associated with compromised kyphosis and loading of the thoracic spine,as well as increased symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and reduced time spent in physical activity in women living in the community.We recommend further research to determine whether evidence-based interventions designed to reduce the flexion torque generated on the thoracic spine can improve these symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and the ability of women with obesity to participate in physical activity.展开更多
In this paper,I have introduced the concept of the Evolutionary Species,and shown how it affects the taxonomy of the Artiodactyla of China.The"traditional"taxonomy of the Artiodactyla,which has remained almo...In this paper,I have introduced the concept of the Evolutionary Species,and shown how it affects the taxonomy of the Artiodactyla of China.The"traditional"taxonomy of the Artiodactyla,which has remained almost unchanged for 100 years,relies on ill-formulated notions of species and subspecies,only slightly modified by the population-thinking of the 1930s.Species are populations(or metapopu-lations)differentiated by the possession of fixed heritable differences from other such populations(or metapopulations).In the Artiodactyla,there are many more species than"traditionally"recognised;this is by no means a drawback,as it enables the units of biodiversity to be identified in a testable fashion,and brings the taxonomy of large mammals into line with that long practised for small mammals.Species are likely to differentiate where there are natural gaps in the distribution of a genus,such as mountain blocks(for example in the genus Budorcas)or otherwise dissected habitat(for example in the genus Cervus).Natural hybridisation between distinct species is not an uncommon phenomenon,again illustrated well in the genus Cervus,where hybridisation between the elaphus and nippon groups occurs today and evidently occurred in the past,as shown by the distribution of mtDNA.展开更多
A large number of network security breaches in IoT networks have demonstrated the unreliability of current Network Intrusion Detection Systems(NIDSs).Consequently,network interruptions and loss of sensitive data have ...A large number of network security breaches in IoT networks have demonstrated the unreliability of current Network Intrusion Detection Systems(NIDSs).Consequently,network interruptions and loss of sensitive data have occurred,which led to an active research area for improving NIDS technologies.In an analysis of related works,it was observed that most researchers aim to obtain better classification results by using a set of untried combinations of Feature Reduction(FR)and Machine Learning(ML)techniques on NIDS datasets.However,these datasets are different in feature sets,attack types,and network design.Therefore,this paper aims to discover whether these techniques can be generalised across various datasets.Six ML models are utilised:a Deep Feed Forward(DFF),Convolutional Neural Network(CNN),Recurrent Neural Network(RNN),Decision Tree(DT),Logistic Regression(LR),and Naive Bayes(NB).The accuracy of three Feature Extraction(FE)algorithms is detected;Principal Component Analysis(PCA),Auto-encoder(AE),and Linear Discriminant Analysis(LDA),are evaluated using three benchmark datasets:UNSW-NB15,ToN-IoT and CSE-CIC-IDS2018.Although PCA and AE algorithms have been widely used,the determination of their optimal number of extracted dimensions has been overlooked.The results indicate that no clear FE method or ML model can achieve the best scores for all datasets.The optimal number of extracted dimensions has been identified for each dataset,and LDA degrades the performance of the ML models on two datasets.The variance is used to analyse the extracted dimensions of LDA and PCA.Finally,this paper concludes that the choice of datasets significantly alters the performance of the applied techniques.We believe that a universal(benchmark)feature set is needed to facilitate further advancement and progress of research in this field.展开更多
This study elaborates on the effects of matrix rigidity on the high-velocity impact behaviour of UHMWPE textile composites using experimental and numerical methods.Textile composite samples were manufactured of a plai...This study elaborates on the effects of matrix rigidity on the high-velocity impact behaviour of UHMWPE textile composites using experimental and numerical methods.Textile composite samples were manufactured of a plain-weave fabric(comprising Spectra?1000 fibres)and four different matrix materials.High-velocity impact tests were conducted by launching a spherical steel projectile to strike on the prepared samples via a gas gun.The experimental results showed that the textile composites gradually changed from a membrane stretching mode to a plate bending mode as the matrix rigidity and thickness increased.The composites deformed in the membrane stretching mode had higher impact resistance and energy absorption capacity,and it was found that the average energy absorption per ply was much higher in this mode,although the number of broken yarns was smaller in the perforated samples.Moreover,the flexible matrix composites always had higher perforation resistance but larger deformation than the rigid matrix counterparts in the tested thickness and velocity range.A novel numerical modelling approach with enhanced computational efficiency was proposed to simulate textile composites in mesoscale resolution.The simulation results revealed that stress and strain development in the more rigid matrix composite was localised in the vicinity of the impact location,leading to larger local deformation and inferior perforation resistance.展开更多
Soil loss due to crop harvesting （SLCH） is a soil erosion process that signiifcantly contributes to soil degradation in crop-lands. However, little is known about soil nutrient losses caused by SLCH and its environm...Soil loss due to crop harvesting （SLCH） is a soil erosion process that signiifcantly contributes to soil degradation in crop-lands. However, little is known about soil nutrient losses caused by SLCH and its environmental impacts. In the North China Plain area, we measured the losses of soil organic carbon （SOC） and nitrogen as wel as phosphorus due to SLCH and assessed their relationship with soil particle size composition, agronomic practices and soil moisture content. Our results show that the losses by harvesting potato of SOC, total nitrogen （TN）, available nitrogen （AN）, available phosphorus （AP） and total phosphorus （TP） were 1.7, 1.8, 1.8, 15.9 and 14.1 times compared by harvesting sweet potato, respectively. The variation of SOC, N and P loss by SLCH are mainly explained by the variation of plant density （PD） （17–50%）, net mass of an individual tuber （Mcrop/p） （16–74%）, soil clay content （34–70%） and water content （19–46%）. Taking into account the current sewage treatment system and the ratio of the nutrients adhering to the tubers during transportation from the ifeld （NTRP/SP）, the loss of TN and TP by harvesting of potato and sweet potato in the North China Plain area amounts to 3% N and 20% P loads in the water bodies of this region. The fate of the exported N and P in the sewage treatment system ultimately controls the contribution of N and P to the polution of lakes and rivers. Our results suggest that a large amount of SLCH-induced soil nutrient export during transportation from the ifeld is a potential polutant source for agricultural water for vast planting areas of tuber crops in China, and should not be overlooked.展开更多
The mid-Pleistocene transition （MPT, c. 1.2 to 0.5 Ma） records fundamental changes in Earth＇s climate state, where low-amplitude 41-kyr obliquity-dominated cycles gave way progressively to the high-amplitude, quasi...The mid-Pleistocene transition （MPT, c. 1.2 to 0.5 Ma） records fundamental changes in Earth＇s climate state, where low-amplitude 41-kyr obliquity-dominated cycles gave way progressively to the high-amplitude, quasiperiodic （c. 100-kyr） fluctuations that characterize the later Pleistocene and Holocene. We use wavelet analysis on the LR04 δ^l8O benthic foraminiferal stack to confirm low-frequency power as early as 1.25-1.20 Ma, determine the persistence of obliquity-dominated cyclicity through and beyond the MPT, and reveal new levels of complexity in climate evolution.展开更多
Soil has been identified as a possible carbon （C） sink for sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide （CO2）. However, soil organic carbon （SOC） dynamics in agro-ecosystems is affected by complex interactions of var...Soil has been identified as a possible carbon （C） sink for sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide （CO2）. However, soil organic carbon （SOC） dynamics in agro-ecosystems is affected by complex interactions of various factors including climate, soil and agricultural management practices, which hinders our understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The objectives of this study were to use the Agricultural Production Systems simulator （APSIM） model to simulate the long-term SOC dynamics under different management practices at four long-term experimental sites, Zhengzhou and Xuzhou with double cropping systems and Gongzhuling and Urtimqi with single cropping systems, located in northern China. Firstly, the model was calibrated using information from the sites and literature, and its performance to predict crop growth and SOC dynamics was examined. The calibrated model was then used to assess the impacts of different management practices, including fertilizer application, irrigation, and residue retention, on C dynamics in the top 30 cm of the soil by scenario modelling. Results indicate a significant SOC sequestration potential through improved management practices of nitrogen （N） fertilizer application, stubble retention, and irrigation. Optimal N fertilization （Nopt） and 100% stubble retention （R100） increased SOC by about 11.2%, 208.29%, and 283.67% under irrigation at Gongzhuling, Zhengzhou, and Xuzhou, respectively. Soil organic carbon decreased rapidly at lJriimqi under irrigation, which was due to the enhanced decomposition by increased soil moisture. Under rainfed condition, SOC remained at a higher level. The combination of Nopt and R100 increased SOC by about 0.46% under rainfed condition at /Jr/imqi. Generally, agricultural soils with double cropping systems （Zhengzhou and Xuzhou） showed a greater potential to sequester C than those with single cropping systems （Gongzhuling and Urumqi）.展开更多
SKS and SKKS waveforms from 16 events occurring between 2003 and 2005 in the Tonga Trench that were recorded by the BOLIVAR array are analyzed to determine the structure of the D＂ layer beneath the Galapagos Islands....SKS and SKKS waveforms from 16 events occurring between 2003 and 2005 in the Tonga Trench that were recorded by the BOLIVAR array are analyzed to determine the structure of the D＂ layer beneath the Galapagos Islands. 248 differential travel-time residuals of SKKS-SKS are measured and reveal a region of positive residuals of differential travel times in the northeast portion of the sampled region. Analyzing correlation statistics between the measured SKKS-SKS residuals and the observed absolute travel time delay of the individual SKS and SKKS phases for two events with high data quality, we determine that the residual differential travel time is due to excess low velocity along the SKKS raypaths. First order modeling of three potential low velocity structures, ultra-low velocity zones （ULVZ）, plume conduit, D＂ structure, indicates that the observed SKKS-SKS residuals can be best explained by a low velocity anomaly within the D＂ layer. To determine the presence of lower mantle anisotropy, amplitude ratios of the radial and transverse component of SKS and SKKS waveform are calculated and compared. Regions with significant presence of seismic anisotropy are interpreted as the edge of the flow field associated with a hypothetical mantle upwelling.展开更多
This work conducts robust H^(∞)analysis for a class of quantum systems subject to perturbations in the interaction Hamiltonian.A necessary and sufficient condition for the robustly strict bounded real property of thi...This work conducts robust H^(∞)analysis for a class of quantum systems subject to perturbations in the interaction Hamiltonian.A necessary and sufficient condition for the robustly strict bounded real property of this type of uncertain quantum system is proposed.This paper focuses on the study of coherent robust H^(∞)controller design for quantum systems with uncertainties in the interaction Hamiltonian.The desired controller is connected with the uncertain quantum system through direct and indirect couplings.A necessary and sufficient condition is provided to build a connection between the robust H^(∞)control problem and the scaled H^(∞)control problem.A numerical procedure is provided to obtain coefficients of a coherent controller.An example is presented to illustrate the controller design method.展开更多
Starch branching enzyme(SBE)has rarely been studied in common starchy banana fruits.For the first time,we report here the molecular characterization of seven SBE(MaSBE)and six SBE(MbSBE)genes in the banana A-and B-gen...Starch branching enzyme(SBE)has rarely been studied in common starchy banana fruits.For the first time,we report here the molecular characterization of seven SBE(MaSBE)and six SBE(MbSBE)genes in the banana A-and B-genomes,respectively,which could be classified into three distinct subfamilies according to genome-wide identification.Systematic transcriptomic analysis revealed that six MaSBEs and six MbSBEs were expressed in the developing banana fruits of two different genotypes,BaXi Jiao(BX,AAA)and Fen Jiao(FJ,AAB),among which MaSBE2.3 and MbSBE2.3 were highly expressed.Transient silencing of MaSBE2.3 expression in banana fruit discs led to a significant decrease in its transcription,which coincides with significant reductions in total starch and amylopectin contents compared to those of empty vector controls.The suggested functional role of MaSBE2.3 in banana fruit development was corroborated by its transient overexpression in banana fruit discs,which led to significant enhancements in total starch and amylopectin contents.A number of transcription factors,including three auxin response factors(ARF2/12/24)and two MYBs(MYB3/308),that interact with the MaSBE2.3 promoter were identified by yeast one-hybrid library assays.Among these ARFs and MYBs,MaARF2/MaMYB308 and MaARF12/MaARF24/MaMYB3 were demonstrated via a luciferase reporter system to upregulate and downregulate the expression of MaSBE2.3,respectively.展开更多
Global demand for vegetable oil is anticipated to double by 2030. The current vegetable oil production platforms, including oil palm and temperate oilseeds, are unlikely to produce such an expansion. Therefore, the ex...Global demand for vegetable oil is anticipated to double by 2030. The current vegetable oil production platforms, including oil palm and temperate oilseeds, are unlikely to produce such an expansion. Therefore, the exploration of novel vegetable oil sources has become increasingly important in order to make up this future vegetable oil shortfall. Triacylglycerol （TAG）, as the dominant form of vegetable oil, has recently attracted immense interest in terms of being produced in plant vegetative tissues via genetic engineering technologies. Multidiscipline-based ＂-omics＂ studies are increasingly enhancing our understanding of plant lipid biochemistry and metabolism. As a result, the identification of biochemical pathways and the annotation of key genes contributing to fatty acid biosynthesis and to lipid assembly and turnover have been effectively updated. In recent years, there has been a rapid development in the genetic enhancement of TAG accumulation in high-biomass plant vegetative tissues and oilseeds through the genetic manipulation of the key genes and regulators involved in TAG biosynthesis. In this review, current genetic engineering strategies ranging from single-gene manipulation to multigene stacking aimed at increasing plant biomass TAG accumulation are summarized. New directions and suggestions for plant oil production that may help to further alleviate the potential shortage of edible oil and biodiesel are discussed.展开更多
Polymeric surfactants are amongst the most widespread of all polymers. In nature, proteins and polysaccharidescause self organization as a result of this surfactancy; in industry, polymeric surfactants play key roles ...Polymeric surfactants are amongst the most widespread of all polymers. In nature, proteins and polysaccharidescause self organization as a result of this surfactancy; in industry, polymeric surfactants play key roles in the food, explosivesand surface coatings sectors. The generation of useful nano- and micro-structures in films and emulsions as a result ofpolymer amphiphilicity and the application of mechanical stress is discussed. The use of X-ray and neutron small anglescattering and reflectivity to measure these structures and their dynamic properties will be described. New results on linear and dendritic polymer surfactants are presented.展开更多
The Lieb-Liniger model is a prototypical integrable model and has been turned into the benchmark physics in theoretical and numerical investigations of low-dimensional quantum systems. In this note, we present various...The Lieb-Liniger model is a prototypical integrable model and has been turned into the benchmark physics in theoretical and numerical investigations of low-dimensional quantum systems. In this note, we present various methods for calculating local and nonlocal M-particle correlation functions, momentum distribution, and static structure factor. In particular, using the Bethe ansatz wave function of the strong coupling Lieb-Liniger model, we analytically calculate the two-point correlation function, the large moment tail of the momentum distribution, and the static structure factor of the model in terms of the fractional statistical parameter a = 1 - 2/γ, where γ, is the dimensionless interaction strength. We also discuss the Tan＇s adiabatic relation and other universal relations for the strongly repulsive Lieb-Liniger model in terms of the fractional statistical parameter.展开更多
A systematic theoretical approach is developed to study the electronic and transport properties of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in the presence of spin-orbit interactions induced by the Rashba effect.The stan...A systematic theoretical approach is developed to study the electronic and transport properties of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in the presence of spin-orbit interactions induced by the Rashba effect.The standard random-phase approximation is employed to calculate the screening length caused by electron-electron interaction in different transition channels.The quantum and transport mobilities in different spin branches are evaluated using the momentum-balance equation derived from the Boltzmann equation,in which the electron interactions with both the remote and background impurities are taken into account in an InAlAs/InGaAs heterojunction at low-temperatures.展开更多
BACKGROUND Dual checkpoint inhibition improves response rates in treatment naive patients with metastatic melanoma compared to monotherapy.However,it confers a higher rate of toxicity,including immune-related colitis....BACKGROUND Dual checkpoint inhibition improves response rates in treatment naive patients with metastatic melanoma compared to monotherapy.However,it confers a higher rate of toxicity,including immune-related colitis.Steroids may not resolve symptoms in all cases.The use of vedolizumab,a humanized monoclonal antibody againstα4β7 integrin has proven effective in cases refractory to standard treatment.CASE SUMMARY We report the case of a 27-year-old female with Stage IVd metastatic melanoma treated with ipilimumab and nivolumab.She developed severe colitis refractory to methylprednisolone,infliximab and mycophenolate mofetil but responded to vedolizumab.CONCLUSION This case report supports vedolizumab use in severe immune related colitis refractory to standard immunosuppression.展开更多
Agriculture is a large source of carbon emissions. The cropland practices of fertilizer substitution, crop straw and conservation tillage are beneficial and help to rebuild local soil carbon stocks and reduce soil car...Agriculture is a large source of carbon emissions. The cropland practices of fertilizer substitution, crop straw and conservation tillage are beneficial and help to rebuild local soil carbon stocks and reduce soil carbon emissions, in addition to reducing the consumption of fertilizers and fossil fuels. These improved cropland practices can directly and indirectly mitigatecarbon emissions, benefiting the sustainability of croplands. For these three improved practices, we estimated carbon mitigation potentials in rice, wheat and maize croplands in China. The combined contribution of these practices to carbon mitigation was 38.8 Tg C yr-1, with fertilizer substitution, crop straw return, and conservation tillage contributing 26.6, 3.6 and 8.6 Tg C yr-1, respectively. Rice, wheat and maize croplands had potentials to mitigate 13.4, 11.9 and 15.5 Tg C yr-1, respectively, with the combined direct and indirectpotential of 33.8 and 5.0 Tg C yr-1. Because of differences in local climate and specific diets, the regional cropland carbon mitigation potentials differed greatly among provinces in China. In China, 18 provinces had a "target surplus" for which the carbon mitigation from these three practices was larger than the mitigation target set for 2020. At the national level, a net "target surplus"of 4.84 Tg C yr-1 would be attained for Chinese croplands with full implementation of the three improved practices. Regional cooperation must be developed to achieve carbon mitigation targets using such measures as carbon trading, establishing regional associations, and strengthening research programs to improve practices.展开更多
文摘Demand Side Management(DSM)is a vital issue in smart grids,given the time-varying user demand for electricity and power generation cost over a day.On the other hand,wireless communications with ubiquitous connectivity and low latency have emerged as a suitable option for smart grid.The design of any DSM system using a wireless network must consider the wireless link impairments,which is missing in existing literature.In this paper,we propose a DSM system using a Real-Time Pricing(RTP)mechanism and a wireless Neighborhood Area Network(NAN)with data transfer uncertainty.A Zigbee-based Internet of Things(IoT)model is considered for the communication infrastructure of the NAN.A sample NAN employing XBee and Raspberry Pi modules is also implemented in real-world settings to evaluate its reliability in transferring smart grid data over a wireless link.The proposed DSM system determines the optimal price corresponding to the optimum system welfare based on the two-way wireless communications among users,decision-makers,and energy providers.A novel cost function is adopted to reduce the impact of changes in user numbers on electricity prices.Simulation results indicate that the proposed system benefits users and energy providers.Furthermore,experimental results demonstrate that the success rate of data transfer significantly varies over the implemented wireless NAN,which can substantially impact the performance of the proposed DSM system.Further simulations are then carried out to quantify and analyze the impact of wireless communications on the electricity price,user welfare,and provider welfare.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22378227)the National Research Foundation,Singapore,and A*STAR under its Low-Carbon Energy Research(LCER)Funding Initiative(FI)Project(U2102d2011,WBS:A-8000278-00-00)the Medium Energy X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy beamline at the Australian Synchrotron,part of ANSTO。
文摘Dry reforming of methane(DRM)over Ni-based catalysts is an economically reasonable technology for large-scale CO_(2)utilization.However,prolonged Ni sintering and carbon deposition reduce the durability and efficiency of DRM,hindering its engineering application.Herein,we propose a facile approach by combining continuous microscale coprecipitation with solid-state reactions to construct a BaAl_(2)O_(4)-overlayer-confined Ni catalyst.The 5-wt%-Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)catalyst exhibited advanced CO_(2)and CH_(4)conversions of 96% and 86% at 800℃ and a GHSV of 144 L g_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1).Moreover,the k_(d)-CO_(2)and k_(d)-CH_(4)of Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)were 0.0063 and 0.0029 h^(-1);which are approximately half and one-thirds of those of Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)and slightly better than those of Ni@MgAl_(2)O_(4),underscoring the versatility of the proposed synthesis protocol for constructing core-shell structures.XAS,HAADF-STEM-EDS,and CO transmission-IR characterizations confirmed the SMSI of~2-nm amorphous BaAl_(2)O_(4)-overlaid~10 nm Ni with an overall mesoporous structure.After a long-term test,the sintering and coking inhibition effects of Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)(10→11 nm,0.55 mgCg_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1))outperformed Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)(13→22 nm,1.90 mgCg_(cat)^(-1).h^(-1))and Ni@MgAl_(2)O_(4).In situ time-resolved CH4→CO_(2)transient response,DRIFTS experiments,and DFT calculations suggested that Ni@BaAl_(2)O_(4)and Ni/BaAl_(2)O_(4)followed the Mars-van Krevelen and Langmuir-Hinshelwood redox mechanisms,respectively.The functional interfacial lattice oxygen promoted the removal of C_(ads)^(*)on Ni and core-shell structure induced fast CO_(2)adsorption and CO desorption.The present study provides a facile approach for constructing a stable and active Ni-based core-shell catalyst.Furthermore,it offers novel insights into the functionalities of non-reducible spinel overlayers in the DRM process.
基金supported by the NSFC(Grants Nos.12175178and 12247103)Shaanxi Fundamental Science Research Project for Mathematics and Physics(Grant No.22JSY016)Graduate innovation project of Northwest University(Grant No.CX2024137)。
文摘We study fundamental dark-bright solitons and the interaction of vector nonlinear Schr?dinger equations in both focusing and defocusing regimes.Classification of possible types of soliton solutions is given.There are two types of solitons in the defocusing case and four types of solitons in the focusing case.The number of possible variations of two-soliton solutions depends on this classification.We demonstrate that only special types of two-soliton solutions in the focusing regime can generate breathers of the scalar nonlinear Schr?dinger equation.The cases of solitons with equal and unequal velocities in the superposition are considered.Numerical simulations confirm the validity of our exact solutions.
基金financially supported by the Natural Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFD2301500)。
文摘Maize serves as a crucial cereal crop globally,yet the escalating frequency of drought stress during the reproductive phase poses a significant threat to grain yield by causing an irreversible loss in kernel number.Enhancing reproductive drought tolerance in maize requires elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying its response to drought stress,which can then be incorporated into the development of new maize varieties through breeding programs.Additionally,innovative cultivation practices must be devised to complement these genetic improvements.In this review,the timing,duration,and severity of drought stress during the reproductive stage and their effects on maize kernel set are assessed,providing a basis for constructing a framework that links kernel setting to drought stress.Based on this framework,reproductive drought tolerance from tasseling through post-fertilization kernel establishment is subsequently examined.Evidence indicates that drought-induced fertilization failure is primarily due to delayed pollination resulting from slower silk elongation,which is caused by the loss of cell turgor and reduced carbon supply.Meanwhile,kernel abortion after fertilization is mainly triggered by carbohydrate starvation,increased ethylene emission,and the accumulation of abscisic acid(ABA).Therefore,sugar metabolism,hydraulic status,and hormone signaling collectively regulate maize's kernel setting tolerance to drought stress in a synergistic manner.Several novel gene candidates with potential for conferring drought tolerance in maize have been identified,offering promising targets for genetic improvement through genome editing combined with targeted cultivation practices to enhance maize drought tolerance and ensure stable grain yield in future crops.
基金support of the Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarshipthe Sports Medicine Australia Research Foundation,which providcd partial funding towards this study。
文摘Purpose:This study investigated the effects of obesity on breast size,thoracic spine structure and function,upper torso musculoskeletal pain and physical activity participation in women living independently in the community.Methods:A total of 378 women were divided into 3 groups(Not Overweight:body mass index(BMI)=22.5±0.2 kg/m^2(mean±SE);Overweight:BMI=27.4±0.3 kg/m^2;Obese:BMI=35.4±0.3 kg/m^2).Outcome variables of breast volume(mL),thoracic flexion torque(N·m),thoracic kyphosis(degrees),upper torso musculoskeletal pain(score) and time spent in physical activity(min) were calculated and compared among the 3 groups,adjusting for between-group differences in age.Results:There was a significant main effect of BMI on all outcome variables.Participants classified as Obese displayed significantly larger breasts,had greater thoracic flexion torques and reported less time participating in physical activity relative to the participants who were classified as Not Overweight and Overweight.Participants in the Obese group also displayed significantly more thoracic kyphosis and reported significantly more upper torso musculoskeletal pain compared to their counterparts who were classified as Not Overweight.Conclusion:This study is the first to demonstrate that increased obesity levels were associated with compromised kyphosis and loading of the thoracic spine,as well as increased symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and reduced time spent in physical activity in women living in the community.We recommend further research to determine whether evidence-based interventions designed to reduce the flexion torque generated on the thoracic spine can improve these symptoms of upper torso musculoskeletal pain and the ability of women with obesity to participate in physical activity.
文摘In this paper,I have introduced the concept of the Evolutionary Species,and shown how it affects the taxonomy of the Artiodactyla of China.The"traditional"taxonomy of the Artiodactyla,which has remained almost unchanged for 100 years,relies on ill-formulated notions of species and subspecies,only slightly modified by the population-thinking of the 1930s.Species are populations(or metapopu-lations)differentiated by the possession of fixed heritable differences from other such populations(or metapopulations).In the Artiodactyla,there are many more species than"traditionally"recognised;this is by no means a drawback,as it enables the units of biodiversity to be identified in a testable fashion,and brings the taxonomy of large mammals into line with that long practised for small mammals.Species are likely to differentiate where there are natural gaps in the distribution of a genus,such as mountain blocks(for example in the genus Budorcas)or otherwise dissected habitat(for example in the genus Cervus).Natural hybridisation between distinct species is not an uncommon phenomenon,again illustrated well in the genus Cervus,where hybridisation between the elaphus and nippon groups occurs today and evidently occurred in the past,as shown by the distribution of mtDNA.
文摘A large number of network security breaches in IoT networks have demonstrated the unreliability of current Network Intrusion Detection Systems(NIDSs).Consequently,network interruptions and loss of sensitive data have occurred,which led to an active research area for improving NIDS technologies.In an analysis of related works,it was observed that most researchers aim to obtain better classification results by using a set of untried combinations of Feature Reduction(FR)and Machine Learning(ML)techniques on NIDS datasets.However,these datasets are different in feature sets,attack types,and network design.Therefore,this paper aims to discover whether these techniques can be generalised across various datasets.Six ML models are utilised:a Deep Feed Forward(DFF),Convolutional Neural Network(CNN),Recurrent Neural Network(RNN),Decision Tree(DT),Logistic Regression(LR),and Naive Bayes(NB).The accuracy of three Feature Extraction(FE)algorithms is detected;Principal Component Analysis(PCA),Auto-encoder(AE),and Linear Discriminant Analysis(LDA),are evaluated using three benchmark datasets:UNSW-NB15,ToN-IoT and CSE-CIC-IDS2018.Although PCA and AE algorithms have been widely used,the determination of their optimal number of extracted dimensions has been overlooked.The results indicate that no clear FE method or ML model can achieve the best scores for all datasets.The optimal number of extracted dimensions has been identified for each dataset,and LDA degrades the performance of the ML models on two datasets.The variance is used to analyse the extracted dimensions of LDA and PCA.Finally,this paper concludes that the choice of datasets significantly alters the performance of the applied techniques.We believe that a universal(benchmark)feature set is needed to facilitate further advancement and progress of research in this field.
文摘This study elaborates on the effects of matrix rigidity on the high-velocity impact behaviour of UHMWPE textile composites using experimental and numerical methods.Textile composite samples were manufactured of a plain-weave fabric(comprising Spectra?1000 fibres)and four different matrix materials.High-velocity impact tests were conducted by launching a spherical steel projectile to strike on the prepared samples via a gas gun.The experimental results showed that the textile composites gradually changed from a membrane stretching mode to a plate bending mode as the matrix rigidity and thickness increased.The composites deformed in the membrane stretching mode had higher impact resistance and energy absorption capacity,and it was found that the average energy absorption per ply was much higher in this mode,although the number of broken yarns was smaller in the perforated samples.Moreover,the flexible matrix composites always had higher perforation resistance but larger deformation than the rigid matrix counterparts in the tested thickness and velocity range.A novel numerical modelling approach with enhanced computational efficiency was proposed to simulate textile composites in mesoscale resolution.The simulation results revealed that stress and strain development in the more rigid matrix composite was localised in the vicinity of the impact location,leading to larger local deformation and inferior perforation resistance.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31000944 and 41171231)the International Atomic Energy Agency,Vienna(18176 and 17908)+1 种基金the State Level Public Welfare Institute Basic Scientific Research Project of China(BSRF201407)the National Key Technologies R&D Program of China during the 12th Five-year Plan period(2013BAD11B03)for financial supports
文摘Soil loss due to crop harvesting （SLCH） is a soil erosion process that signiifcantly contributes to soil degradation in crop-lands. However, little is known about soil nutrient losses caused by SLCH and its environmental impacts. In the North China Plain area, we measured the losses of soil organic carbon （SOC） and nitrogen as wel as phosphorus due to SLCH and assessed their relationship with soil particle size composition, agronomic practices and soil moisture content. Our results show that the losses by harvesting potato of SOC, total nitrogen （TN）, available nitrogen （AN）, available phosphorus （AP） and total phosphorus （TP） were 1.7, 1.8, 1.8, 15.9 and 14.1 times compared by harvesting sweet potato, respectively. The variation of SOC, N and P loss by SLCH are mainly explained by the variation of plant density （PD） （17–50%）, net mass of an individual tuber （Mcrop/p） （16–74%）, soil clay content （34–70%） and water content （19–46%）. Taking into account the current sewage treatment system and the ratio of the nutrients adhering to the tubers during transportation from the ifeld （NTRP/SP）, the loss of TN and TP by harvesting of potato and sweet potato in the North China Plain area amounts to 3% N and 20% P loads in the water bodies of this region. The fate of the exported N and P in the sewage treatment system ultimately controls the contribution of N and P to the polution of lakes and rivers. Our results suggest that a large amount of SLCH-induced soil nutrient export during transportation from the ifeld is a potential polutant source for agricultural water for vast planting areas of tuber crops in China, and should not be overlooked.
文摘The mid-Pleistocene transition （MPT, c. 1.2 to 0.5 Ma） records fundamental changes in Earth＇s climate state, where low-amplitude 41-kyr obliquity-dominated cycles gave way progressively to the high-amplitude, quasiperiodic （c. 100-kyr） fluctuations that characterize the later Pleistocene and Holocene. We use wavelet analysis on the LR04 δ^l8O benthic foraminiferal stack to confirm low-frequency power as early as 1.25-1.20 Ma, determine the persistence of obliquity-dominated cyclicity through and beyond the MPT, and reveal new levels of complexity in climate evolution.
基金Supported by the National Basic Research Program(973 Program)of China(No.2010CB950604)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41075108)
文摘Soil has been identified as a possible carbon （C） sink for sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide （CO2）. However, soil organic carbon （SOC） dynamics in agro-ecosystems is affected by complex interactions of various factors including climate, soil and agricultural management practices, which hinders our understanding of the underlying mechanisms. The objectives of this study were to use the Agricultural Production Systems simulator （APSIM） model to simulate the long-term SOC dynamics under different management practices at four long-term experimental sites, Zhengzhou and Xuzhou with double cropping systems and Gongzhuling and Urtimqi with single cropping systems, located in northern China. Firstly, the model was calibrated using information from the sites and literature, and its performance to predict crop growth and SOC dynamics was examined. The calibrated model was then used to assess the impacts of different management practices, including fertilizer application, irrigation, and residue retention, on C dynamics in the top 30 cm of the soil by scenario modelling. Results indicate a significant SOC sequestration potential through improved management practices of nitrogen （N） fertilizer application, stubble retention, and irrigation. Optimal N fertilization （Nopt） and 100% stubble retention （R100） increased SOC by about 11.2%, 208.29%, and 283.67% under irrigation at Gongzhuling, Zhengzhou, and Xuzhou, respectively. Soil organic carbon decreased rapidly at lJriimqi under irrigation, which was due to the enhanced decomposition by increased soil moisture. Under rainfed condition, SOC remained at a higher level. The combination of Nopt and R100 increased SOC by about 0.46% under rainfed condition at /Jr/imqi. Generally, agricultural soils with double cropping systems （Zhengzhou and Xuzhou） showed a greater potential to sequester C than those with single cropping systems （Gongzhuling and Urumqi）.
文摘SKS and SKKS waveforms from 16 events occurring between 2003 and 2005 in the Tonga Trench that were recorded by the BOLIVAR array are analyzed to determine the structure of the D＂ layer beneath the Galapagos Islands. 248 differential travel-time residuals of SKKS-SKS are measured and reveal a region of positive residuals of differential travel times in the northeast portion of the sampled region. Analyzing correlation statistics between the measured SKKS-SKS residuals and the observed absolute travel time delay of the individual SKS and SKKS phases for two events with high data quality, we determine that the residual differential travel time is due to excess low velocity along the SKKS raypaths. First order modeling of three potential low velocity structures, ultra-low velocity zones （ULVZ）, plume conduit, D＂ structure, indicates that the observed SKKS-SKS residuals can be best explained by a low velocity anomaly within the D＂ layer. To determine the presence of lower mantle anisotropy, amplitude ratios of the radial and transverse component of SKS and SKKS waveform are calculated and compared. Regions with significant presence of seismic anisotropy are interpreted as the edge of the flow field associated with a hypothetical mantle upwelling.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(61803132,61828303,61803389)the U.S.Office of Naval Research Global(N62909-19-1-2129)the Australian Research’s Discovery Projects Funding Scheme under Project DP190101566。
文摘This work conducts robust H^(∞)analysis for a class of quantum systems subject to perturbations in the interaction Hamiltonian.A necessary and sufficient condition for the robustly strict bounded real property of this type of uncertain quantum system is proposed.This paper focuses on the study of coherent robust H^(∞)controller design for quantum systems with uncertainties in the interaction Hamiltonian.The desired controller is connected with the uncertain quantum system through direct and indirect couplings.A necessary and sufficient condition is provided to build a connection between the robust H^(∞)control problem and the scaled H^(∞)control problem.A numerical procedure is provided to obtain coefficients of a coherent controller.An example is presented to illustrate the controller design method.
基金sponsored by the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2018YFD1000200 and 2019YFD1000200)the Modern Agro-industry Technology Research System of China(No.CARS-31)+1 种基金the Central Publicinterest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund(Nos.1630052020002,1630052017010,and 1630052016006)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,No.31401843).
文摘Starch branching enzyme(SBE)has rarely been studied in common starchy banana fruits.For the first time,we report here the molecular characterization of seven SBE(MaSBE)and six SBE(MbSBE)genes in the banana A-and B-genomes,respectively,which could be classified into three distinct subfamilies according to genome-wide identification.Systematic transcriptomic analysis revealed that six MaSBEs and six MbSBEs were expressed in the developing banana fruits of two different genotypes,BaXi Jiao(BX,AAA)and Fen Jiao(FJ,AAB),among which MaSBE2.3 and MbSBE2.3 were highly expressed.Transient silencing of MaSBE2.3 expression in banana fruit discs led to a significant decrease in its transcription,which coincides with significant reductions in total starch and amylopectin contents compared to those of empty vector controls.The suggested functional role of MaSBE2.3 in banana fruit development was corroborated by its transient overexpression in banana fruit discs,which led to significant enhancements in total starch and amylopectin contents.A number of transcription factors,including three auxin response factors(ARF2/12/24)and two MYBs(MYB3/308),that interact with the MaSBE2.3 promoter were identified by yeast one-hybrid library assays.Among these ARFs and MYBs,MaARF2/MaMYB308 and MaARF12/MaARF24/MaMYB3 were demonstrated via a luciferase reporter system to upregulate and downregulate the expression of MaSBE2.3,respectively.
基金the China Scholarship Council (CSC) for financial support
文摘Global demand for vegetable oil is anticipated to double by 2030. The current vegetable oil production platforms, including oil palm and temperate oilseeds, are unlikely to produce such an expansion. Therefore, the exploration of novel vegetable oil sources has become increasingly important in order to make up this future vegetable oil shortfall. Triacylglycerol （TAG）, as the dominant form of vegetable oil, has recently attracted immense interest in terms of being produced in plant vegetative tissues via genetic engineering technologies. Multidiscipline-based ＂-omics＂ studies are increasingly enhancing our understanding of plant lipid biochemistry and metabolism. As a result, the identification of biochemical pathways and the annotation of key genes contributing to fatty acid biosynthesis and to lipid assembly and turnover have been effectively updated. In recent years, there has been a rapid development in the genetic enhancement of TAG accumulation in high-biomass plant vegetative tissues and oilseeds through the genetic manipulation of the key genes and regulators involved in TAG biosynthesis. In this review, current genetic engineering strategies ranging from single-gene manipulation to multigene stacking aimed at increasing plant biomass TAG accumulation are summarized. New directions and suggestions for plant oil production that may help to further alleviate the potential shortage of edible oil and biodiesel are discussed.
文摘Polymeric surfactants are amongst the most widespread of all polymers. In nature, proteins and polysaccharidescause self organization as a result of this surfactancy; in industry, polymeric surfactants play key roles in the food, explosivesand surface coatings sectors. The generation of useful nano- and micro-structures in films and emulsions as a result ofpolymer amphiphilicity and the application of mechanical stress is discussed. The use of X-ray and neutron small anglescattering and reflectivity to measure these structures and their dynamic properties will be described. New results on linear and dendritic polymer surfactants are presented.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11374331 and 11534014)the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2017YFA0304500)partially supported by CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship for International PhD Students
文摘The Lieb-Liniger model is a prototypical integrable model and has been turned into the benchmark physics in theoretical and numerical investigations of low-dimensional quantum systems. In this note, we present various methods for calculating local and nonlocal M-particle correlation functions, momentum distribution, and static structure factor. In particular, using the Bethe ansatz wave function of the strong coupling Lieb-Liniger model, we analytically calculate the two-point correlation function, the large moment tail of the momentum distribution, and the static structure factor of the model in terms of the fractional statistical parameter a = 1 - 2/γ, where γ, is the dimensionless interaction strength. We also discuss the Tan＇s adiabatic relation and other universal relations for the strongly repulsive Lieb-Liniger model in terms of the fractional statistical parameter.
文摘A systematic theoretical approach is developed to study the electronic and transport properties of a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) in the presence of spin-orbit interactions induced by the Rashba effect.The standard random-phase approximation is employed to calculate the screening length caused by electron-electron interaction in different transition channels.The quantum and transport mobilities in different spin branches are evaluated using the momentum-balance equation derived from the Boltzmann equation,in which the electron interactions with both the remote and background impurities are taken into account in an InAlAs/InGaAs heterojunction at low-temperatures.
文摘BACKGROUND Dual checkpoint inhibition improves response rates in treatment naive patients with metastatic melanoma compared to monotherapy.However,it confers a higher rate of toxicity,including immune-related colitis.Steroids may not resolve symptoms in all cases.The use of vedolizumab,a humanized monoclonal antibody againstα4β7 integrin has proven effective in cases refractory to standard treatment.CASE SUMMARY We report the case of a 27-year-old female with Stage IVd metastatic melanoma treated with ipilimumab and nivolumab.She developed severe colitis refractory to methylprednisolone,infliximab and mycophenolate mofetil but responded to vedolizumab.CONCLUSION This case report supports vedolizumab use in severe immune related colitis refractory to standard immunosuppression.
基金supported by the National Science and Technology Major Project(2015ZX07203-005)the National Program for Support of Top-notch Young Professionals
文摘Agriculture is a large source of carbon emissions. The cropland practices of fertilizer substitution, crop straw and conservation tillage are beneficial and help to rebuild local soil carbon stocks and reduce soil carbon emissions, in addition to reducing the consumption of fertilizers and fossil fuels. These improved cropland practices can directly and indirectly mitigatecarbon emissions, benefiting the sustainability of croplands. For these three improved practices, we estimated carbon mitigation potentials in rice, wheat and maize croplands in China. The combined contribution of these practices to carbon mitigation was 38.8 Tg C yr-1, with fertilizer substitution, crop straw return, and conservation tillage contributing 26.6, 3.6 and 8.6 Tg C yr-1, respectively. Rice, wheat and maize croplands had potentials to mitigate 13.4, 11.9 and 15.5 Tg C yr-1, respectively, with the combined direct and indirectpotential of 33.8 and 5.0 Tg C yr-1. Because of differences in local climate and specific diets, the regional cropland carbon mitigation potentials differed greatly among provinces in China. In China, 18 provinces had a "target surplus" for which the carbon mitigation from these three practices was larger than the mitigation target set for 2020. At the national level, a net "target surplus"of 4.84 Tg C yr-1 would be attained for Chinese croplands with full implementation of the three improved practices. Regional cooperation must be developed to achieve carbon mitigation targets using such measures as carbon trading, establishing regional associations, and strengthening research programs to improve practices.
