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For drilled piles in rock stratum, predictions of axial load-deformation response offer guidance for the preliminary design. In this development, the profiles of socket wall would be idealized as similar triangular asperities, and the expansion of the shaft is laterally confined across the socket wall under constant normal stiffness conditions (CNS). The side shear resistance contributes from the overriding (dilation) and degradation (shearing) of asperities, and the degradation of asperities develops asynchronously. In particular, a correlation is derived between asperity geometry properties and the global strength by including a simplified degradation criterion of the asperity. The proposed model can be considered as a generalization of Patton's model, extending the case of regular triangular asperities to the similar ones. On this basis, the predicted shear mobilization relative to displacement can then be employed to update the load transfer function. Semi-analytical solutions to this problem have been conducted by a finite-difference scheme. Based on the validation of a case study, the proposed prediction exhibits general accuracy with reference to the field observations. To investigate the effect of asperity inclination on the ultimate and residual strengths, a parametric study has also been conducted afterwards. Comparing with an existing method, the prediction from the proposed model captures a ductile response and depicts a notable nonlinear behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• For the first time, the material basis of the anti-tumor components from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits was analyzed, and its anti-tumor molecular mechanism was revealed. • Using UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS to analyze the triterpene acids components from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits. • A pharmacophore-based virtual screening for potential targets of triterpene acids from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits was performed. • In vitro experiments verified that triterpene acids from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits can exert anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activity by activating ROS/JNK signaling pathway. Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) is a famous healthy and medicinal edible fruit in southwest China and has been shown to have some hepatoprotective properties. However, whether the active components, such as the triterpene acids from Rosa roxburghii Tratt fruits (TAR), have anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) effects and the potential molecular mechanisms are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the anti-HCC effects and potential action mechanisms of triterpene components in RRT fruits. The triterpene acids in TAR were analyzed by using UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS, and the main components were virtual screening for targets based on pharmacophore and then performed enrichment analysis. HepG2 cells were used for in vitro experiments, including MTT assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry to detect cell cycle, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, caspase-3 activity, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) changes. Moreover, the western blot was used to detect mitochondrial apoptosis and ROS/ c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway-related proteins. The main components in TAR are pentacyclic triterpene acids (mainly euscaphic acid and roxburic acid). TAR could inhibit cell viability, cell migration ability and suppress the proliferation of HepG2 cells through G2/M cell cycle arrest. On the other hand, TAR could induce HepG2 cells apoptosis, which was achieved by causing the accumulation of ROS and activation of the JNK signaling pathway, and our research showed that this apoptosis was mediated through the mitochondrial pathway. In addition, the free radical scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) could attenuate TAR-induced ROS accumulation and JNK signaling pathway activation, which ultimately reversed mitochondrial apoptosis. TAR could activate the ROS/JNK signaling pathway, which could inhibit the proliferation through G2/M cell cycle arrest and promote apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway in HCC cells. This supports the anti-tumor potential in RRT fruits. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with the formulation of an analytical solution for load transfer in drilled shaft and its application. The emphasis is on quantifying the mobilization of side resistances, which are closely related to shear behaviors of the concrete-rock interface. In this modelling, the side resistance is idealized by using elasticity-brittleness-plasticity, and a simple slip-line field is built to identify the critical shear displacement. The closed-form solution of load transfer is obtained by using the proposed shear model. Comparison between predictions and field observations is also made to validate performance of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultimate bearing capacity of an eccentrically loaded strip footing above twin square tunnels buried in rock masses was examined using the generalized Hoek-Brown (GHB) yield criteria. To get reliable findings, the stability assessments were carried out using finite element limit analysis (FELA) code in combination with a sophisticated adaptive remeshing approach. Case studies with two different tunnel layouts, parallel and symmetrical, were examined. Comprehensive parametric analyses were given to demonstrate the effect of load eccentricity, rock mass strength parameters, and tunnel position on the stability of the strip footing. The visualized results of the FELA programme were presented to show how the failure mechanism would change with different influential factors. Moreover, the results were validated by comparing them to earlier investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The purpose of this study was to identify the technical aspects and short-term results of robotic sleeve resection for lung cancer patients. Methods Twenty-one consecutive cases of robotic sleeve resection from September 2014 to September 2015 were reviewed. Results There were 17 single sleeve resection (bronchial) and 4 double sleeve resection (bronchial and vascular) cases. Nineteen of 21 cases (90.5%) achieved R0 resection. The mean console time was 120.4 ± 37.3 minutes. The mean operation time was 158.4 ± 42.0 minutes. There was no massive bleeding (800 mL or more) during operation. The mean intraoperative blood loss was 157.1 ± 97.8 mL. One case (4.8%) was converted to thoracotomy owing to severe calcification of lymph node. There was no intraoperative death. The overall complication rate was 19.0%. The major complications were subcutaneous emphysema (14.4%), cardiac arrhythmia (9.6%), pneumonia (9.6%), pyothorax (9.6%), bronchial anastomosis bleeding (4.8%), bronchial anastomosis leakage (4.8%), and multiple organ failure (4.8%). The 30-day mortality rate was 4.8%. The mean postoperative length of stay was 10.7 ± 7.6 days. Conclusions Robotic sleeve resection is technically feasible and can be carried out with acceptable short-term results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) are widespread environmental pollutants that cause high health risks. However, high heterogeneity in particle sizes and chemical compositions of MNPs make their accurate characterization extremely challenging. Herein, we established a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (MALDI-FTICR MS) strategy for the unambiguous characterization of different types of MNPs with high performance, including polystyrene, polyethylene glycol terephthalate, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer, and polycarbonate. The MNP sample preparation and detection conditions were systematically optimized by using response surface methodology, and the MS detection signal-to-noise ratios were improved 1.5 times on average. The ultrahigh mass resolution of FTICR MS is crucial to the unambiguous elucidation of MNP structures. We demonstrate that this MS strategy is highly efficient in the characterization of polymer constitutions of environmental MNPs derived from foam, bottles, cable ties, and compact discs, providing a promising tool for MNP detection and safety evaluation. [Display omitted] • PS, PET, PA, PMMA, ABS, and PC MNPs were unambiguously characterized by MALDI-FTICR MS. • The MS SNRs were improved by an average of 1.5 times after detection condition optimization. • MNPs derived from foam, bottles, cable ties, and compact discs were successfully identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct shear tests on samples containing similar triangular asperities have been carried out under constant normal stiffness (CNS) conditions, and observations demonstrated that there exists local lift-off of shallower asperities across the interface, resulting in a redistribution of local stresses and further impacting the global shear behavior. This study further modifies the existing theoretical model based on multiple-asperity configurations, previously presented by the authors. The proposed method relates the normal and shear stresses on the individual asperity to interface strength and corresponding displacement in terms of the asperity inclination and contact areas. The emphasis is on quantifying the number of shallower asperities that would be lifted off when the closely contacted asperities are dislocated by an amount of interface dilation. In addition to the mechanism of local lift-off itself, the resultant redistribution of global shear stress on remaining asperities can be also taken into account. The proposed model is verified by predicting experimental observations published elsewhere, and the comparison appears to be satisfactory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background With the development of diagnostic techniques, the incidence of multiple pulmonary nodules has increased. The management of multiple primary lung cancer patients based on currently established criteria, however, remains controversial. Methods Patients who underwent curative operations for bilateral multiple primary lung cancer (BMPLC) based on the Martini–Melamed criterion between January 2001 and June 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Results Bilateral lobectomies and lobectomies with contralateral sublobar resections were performed in 39 and 49 patients, respectively. Bilateral sublobar resections were performed in the remaining 13 cases. Overall survival at 3 and 5 years was 84.5% and 75.0%, respectively. The use of a limited resection procedure for the contralateral second nodule in cases with stage I BMPLC did not have a negative effect on the 5-year overall survival ( p = 0.752). Postoperative pathologic diagnosis classified by the most advanced TNM stage appeared to present a good correlation with prognosis in patients with BMPLC. Cox multivariate analysis identified the most advanced TNM stage ( p = 0.018) and the number of lesions ( p = 0.001) as significant predictors of overall survival. Conclusions The prognosis of patients after bilateral surgical treatment with curative intent for BMPLC was shown to be promising. The use of a limited resection procedure for the contralateral second nodule in cases with stage I BMPLC did not have a negative effect on the 5-year overall survival. Postoperative pathologic diagnosis classified by the most advanced TNM had a good correlation with prognosis in patients with BMPLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Primary tracheal cancer comprises a heterogeneous and rare group of neoplasms. Management of patients with primary tracheal carcinoma at our institution has improved in recent years. Methods This retrospective review included patients with localized primary tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma treated surgically at our institution between January 1995 and December 2014. Patients were classified according to the timing of first operation: “early years” operation was performed between January 1995 and December 2002, and subsequent “recent years” operation was associated with improved management and a focus on early diagnosis. Results The proportion of patients with tracheal malignancy who underwent operation for adenoid cystic carcinoma increased with time. Patients in the recent group were significantly younger than those in the early group at diagnosis (49.3 ± 7.8 years versus 45.7 ± 9.4 years; p = 0.042), and the resected tumor size and tracheal lengths tended to be smaller (28.2 ± 7.6 mm versus 30.3 ± 7.0 mm; p = 0.161) and shorter (32.1 ± 7.7 mm versus 34.4 ± 6.7 mm; p = 0.123). The use of postoperative radiotherapy in patients with R1 resection was also managed more effectively in the recent group compared with the early group (90.6% versus 65.0%; p = 0.009). Five- and 10-year overall survival rates in the early and recent groups were 86.4% and 90.8%, and 31.8% and 61.2%, respectively ( p = 0.084), and the corresponding 5- and 10-year disease-free survival rates were 39.7% and 75.3%, and 9.9% and 21.2%, respectively ( p = 0.025). Conclusions There have been improved outcomes of adenoid cystic carcinomas. Early diagnosis, experienced surgical treatments, and postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with positive margins may contribute to the improved survival of patients with primary tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatic inflammation can substantially impact the development of acute hepatitis. It is a pressing need to identify and exploit novel therapeutic targets as well as effective drug therapies against acute hepatitis. Aucubin (AU) is one of the main active components extracted from the leaves of Eucommia ulmoides and possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. However, the protective effect and mechanism of AU on acute hepatitis have not been reported yet.Purpose: This study aims to investigate the protective effect of AU on LPS-induced acute hepatitis and the mechanism of action.Methods: The limma package was used to analyze differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between LPS-induced acute hepatitis and normal groups based on Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) microarray data. Network pharmacology predicted targets for AU therapy against acute hepatitis, and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of the biological processes involved in these targets. The key pathways were analyzed by protein-protein interaction, KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes), and GSEA (Gene Set Enrichment Analysis) enrichment. The important interaction targets between AU and key pathways were evaluated by molecular simulation. The in silico predicted mechanism was verified based on in vitro and in vivo experiments.Results: A total of 116 intersection targets between AU prediction targets and differentially expressed genes were identified. They were functionally involved in the imbalance of "inflammation-anti-inflammation" and "oxidation-antioxidation" systems in the process of LPS-induced cases. In vitro experiments revealed that AU reduced inflammation in LPS-induced HepG2 cells by reducing the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, as well as iNOS enzyme activity levels. In addition, LPS-induced oxidative stress can be alleviated by AU via adjusting the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), Malone dialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Protein-protein interaction and GSEA results showed that AU might exert anti-inflammatory effects mainly through the STAT3/NF-κB signal pathway. Molecular dynamics simulation as well as in vivo tests further demonstrated AU restrained nuclear transfer of NF-κB (P65), probably through reducing phosphorylation of STAT3. In addition, AU appears to reduce oxidative stress by upregulating NRF2/HO-1.Conclusion: We explored potential targets and signal pathways of AU in inhibiting acute hepatitis. AU exerted anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities and may be a useful candidate drug for the treatment of acute hepatitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Although the role of endobronchial ultrasound guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) in pulmonary sarcoidosis has previously been investigated, the determining factors in diagnosing sarcoidosis by EBUS-TBNA without rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) are unclear. Methods Patients with clinically and radiographically suspected sarcoidosis underwent EBUS-TBNA without ROSE in a prospective study. Presence of non-caseating epithelioid cell granulomas was pathologic evidence of sarcoidosis. Results The EBUS-TBNA was performed in 120 patients, 111 of whom had confirmed sarcoidosis. For the patients with sarcoidosis (62 stage I, 49 stage II) EBUS-TBNA provided sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of 93.69%, 100%, 100%, 56.25%, and 94.17%, respectively, in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Diagnostic yield of EBUS-TBNA for sarcoidosis was associated with disease stage, but not associated with serum angiotensin converting enzyme level, number of lymph node stations sampled per patient, or total number of passes performed per patient. At EBUS-TBNA, 284 mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes were aspirated in 111 patients. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that short-axis diameter and more than 1 needle pass per lymph node were independent risk factors associated with positive pathology. No major procedure-related complications were observed. Conclusions Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration is a safe procedure with high sensitivity for diagnosing sarcoidosis, having a higher diagnostic yield in stage I than stage II. To obtain a higher diagnostic yield of EBUS-TBNA in pulmonary sarcoidosis without ROSE, operators should select the largest mediastinal or hilar lymph node accessible and puncture with 3 to 5 passes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We developed a novel deep learning network to segment the gastrocnemius and soleus in shank ultrasound (US) images. • As the sublayer unit of each layer of a U-net, deep Resnet was used to meet the challenges of poor US image quality and low contrast. • Dilated convolution was used to extract deeper feature information, and then reduce the interference of a large number of shadows. • This method has achieved a mean DSC of the Gas and Sol muscles of 94.82% and 90.72%, which outperforms other state-of-the-art methods. Segmentation of the shank gastrocnemius (Gas) and soleus (Sol) muscles in ultrasound (US) images allows to extract the muscle features, which are important for the early diagnosis of muscle atrophy. The automatic segmentation of the muscles is a challenging task, and deep learning (DL) provides a solution to this problem, which can effectively extract representative features from the muscle regions and background of the images. In this study, we propose ResTU-net, an automatic segmentation method based on improved U-net network, to segment the Gas and Sol muscles in shank US images. This network uses the deep residual neural network (Resnet) as the sublayer unit of each layer of a U-net, and can effectively combine the features of each layer with those of the next layer to meet the challenges of poor US image quality and low contrast. In addition, dilated convolution is used instead of the pooling layer in the network to prevent information loss during training. Experiments were performed on 3350 shank US images from 23 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, among them, 2650 shank US images were used for network training and 700 for network validation. Compared with state-of-the-art networks, the experimental results show that the method can achieved the best segmentation capability results and a mean Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of the Gas and Sol muscles of 94.82% and 90.72%, respectively. This work indicates that the proposed fully automatic segmentation method may be accurately and efficiently applied to Gas and Sol muscles segmentation in shank US images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a minimally invasive procedure that has enabled mediastinal and hilar lymph node assessment with a high sensitivity, but its role in the diagnosis of intrathoracic tuberculosis (TB) has not been established. Methods: We prospectively studied 59 patients suspected of having TB with thoracic lymph node lesions or intrapulmonary lesions accessible by EBUS-TBNA at a clinical center for thoracic medicine from January 2010 to December 2011. Bronchoscopic findings, EBUS-TBNA procedures, pathologic findings, and microbiologic results were recorded. Results: Of 59 eligible patients, 41 patients had TB, 5 had lung cancer, 7 had inflammation, and 6 had sarcoidosis. Sensitivity was 85%, specificity was 100%, positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 75%, respectively, and accuracy was 90% by EBUS-TBNA for TB. Pathologic findings were consistent with TB in 80% of patients (33 of 41), and in 27% (11 of 41) the smear was positive. A total of 37 patients with TB had cultures, of whom 17 (46%) were positive. There were 80 mediastinal and hilar lymph nodes and 5 intrapulmonary lesions that were biopsied in the 41 patients with TB. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that short-axis diameter was an independent risk factor associated with positive pathology, smear, and culture (p < 0.05). Additionally, pathology showing necrosis was an independent risk factor associated with a positive culture. Conclusions: Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration has a high diagnostic yield in the investigation of suspected intrathoracic TB by means of aspiration of intrathoracic lymph nodes and tracheobronchial wall-adjacent lung lesions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Primary airway adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACCs) are rare neoplasms and challenging to resect completely. The objective of the current study was to evaluate clinical and pathologic features and indicate prognostic factors based on different tumor locations in the airway. Methods: From March 2001 to April 2012, 82 consecutively operated patients were enrolled in this study with pathologically confirmed airway adenoid cystic carcinomas in the Shanghai Chest Hospital. Clinical and pathologic data were retrospectively reviewed. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox regression model. Results: The ACCs originating from the bronchus were associated with older age (p = 0.021), had fewer positive margins (44.8% vs 84.9%, p < 0.001), and more involved lymph nodes (55.2% vs 14.3%, p = 0.002) than their tracheal counterparts. The overall survival after resection of all ACCs was 90.6% at 5 years and 56.4% at 10 years. Five and 10-year disease-free survival was 66.9% and 11.2%, respectively. Multivariate analysis indentified only dyspnea as a presenting symptom to predict tracheal disease-free survival (hazard ratio = 0.062, 95% confidence interval = 0.005 to 0.785, p = 0.032). Bronchial ACCs had worse disease-free survival than tumors of tracheal origin (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Adenoid cystic carcinoma in the bronchus behaves more aggressively than its tracheal counterpart. Only dyspnea as a presenting symptom predicts better disease-free survival after resection of tracheal ACCs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Thymic squamous cell carcinomas are rare malignancies with limited information regarding results of surgery therapy. The objective of the current study was to evaluate their clinical and pathologic features and possible prognostic factors. Methods: From February 2003 to December 2010, 105 consecutive surgical patients were enrolled in this study with pathologic confirmed thymic squamous cell carcinoma in Shanghai Chest Hospital. Clinical and pathologic data were retrospectively reviewed. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier and log rank tests. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox regression model. Results: The squamous cell subtype made up 73.4% of the thymic carcinomas and 16.1% of total thymic tumors. Four patients (3.8%) presented with myasthenia gravis. The 5-year overall survival rate and the disease-free survival rate were 59.5% and 57.6%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, only the completeness of resection (hazard ratio 3.692; 95% confidence interval: 1.827 to 7.464; p = 0.001) was found to have significant impact on overall survival. Completeness of resection (hazard ratio 2.361; 95% confidence interval: 1.226 to 4.547; p = 0.010) and chemotherapy (hazard ratio 0.307; 95% confidence interval: 0.134 to 0.704; p = 0.005) were associated with disease-free survival. Conclusions: Complete resection not only predicts better overall survival but also extends disease-free interval after resection of thymic squamous cell carcinoma. Our results provide additional evidence supporting an alternative clinical stage specific for thymic carcinoma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: We compared the surgical outcomes in patients with clinical N0 and pathologic N2 (cN0-pN2) non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy and open thoracotomy to evaluate the role of VATS lobectomy for cN0-pN2 disease. Methods: Between March 2006 and August 2011, 1,456 patients with clinical N0 NSCLC disease underwent lobectomy with systematic node dissection (SND) at Shanghai Chest Hospital. Of those patients, 157 were shown to have cN0-pN2 NSCLC. Of those, 67 patients underwent VATS lobectomy, and 90 patients underwent open lobectomy. SND was performed in all 157 patients. Clinicopathologic factors, local recurrence rates, and survival rates were compared. Results: The two groups were similar in age, sex, and pulmonary function. The VATS approach was associated with significantly shorter chest tube duration and postoperative stay than was the thoracotomy approach. Operative mortality, morbidity, and recurrence did not differ between the two groups. There was no significant difference between the two types of operation in numbers of total lymph nodes removed (17.4 ± 6.1 in the VATS group vs 18.1 ± 7.2 in the open group, p = 0.78) and mediastinal lymph nodes removed (11.7 ± 5.6 in the VATS group vs 12.0 ± 5.1 in the open group, p = 0.84). Similarly, the two groups were not significantly different with regard to stations of total lymph nodes removed (7.6 ± 1.9 in the VATS group vs 7.8 ± 2.3 in the open group, p = 0.81) and mediastinal lymph nodes removed (4.5 ± 1.1 in the VATS group vs 4.7 ± 1.3 in the open group, p = 0.71). The rates of overall survival and disease-free 5-year survival were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions: The clinical outcomes of thoracoscopic lobectomy were comparable to those of thoracotomy for patients with cN0-pN2 NSCLC. Single-station N2 is a good prognostic factor for disease-free survival in these patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ground-based zenith-sky DOAS observation was carried out from October 1, 2009 to September 30, 2010 in Shanghai, China to measure the O4 and H2O absorption in visible band and to illustrate the dependence of their correlation slope on the aerosol pollution type. Good correlations between O4 and H2O DSCDs can be found through linear regression analysis whether it was sunny, cloudy, overcast, or rainy. The correlation slope varied seasonally in the order of summer < autumn, spring < winter. In particular, the correlation slope and fluctuation were small in the summer. It was found that slope values also relied on sky conditions generally in the sequence of dusty > sunny > cloudy > overcast > rainy. The implication of the variation of slope to the aerosol pollution type was discussed for typical heavy dust and haze episodes occurred in March 2010 and October 2009, respectively. As the correlation slope abruptly increased during the heavy dust due to low moisture content and enhanced O4 absorption caused by abundant suspended dry crustal particles, the slope dropped suddenly in the haze episode owing to the significant augment of H2O absorption. Thus, the much discrepant correlation patterns may be regarded as a characteristic signature for dust and haze events. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Membrane technique is more and more used in the papermaking effluent treatment because of the advantages of environmental, high efficient and low energy consumption. In this work, a new cellulose nanocrystalline (CNC)/polysulfone (PSF) composite membrane was prepared with L-S phase invasion and was used to separate papermaking effluent. The composite membranes were coagulated in methanol/water coagulation bath with different concentration. The properties of the membrane which was used to treat the papermaking effluent were characterized. The cross section of the membrane was characterized by a scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The tensile strength was measured. Flux and rejection rate were studied. Moreover, the properties of the effluent which separated with membrane were characterized. Results showed that the membrane structure differed as the methanol concentration changed. With the increase of the CNC content, the tensile strength increase first and then decrease. The new composite membrane has a relative high flux during the treatment of papermaking effluent. At the same time, the lignin content, suspended solids (SS) and chemical oxygen demand in the papermaking effluent all decreases obviously. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During the operation of Xiangjiaba Hydropower Station, the unsteady flow released from the Station's daily regulation will exert influence on the channel condition of near-dam reach (Shuifu-Yibin river stretch). Based on the channel regulation scheme, a two-dimensional flow mathematical model is applied to simulate flow movement of the 33km downstream reach. It primarily analyzes the influence of daily regulation on the channel improvement from Shuifu to Yibin. The result shows that release wave will increase the navigation depth in low flow. Channel velocity V, water surface slope J and parameter VJ in rising stage are larger than that of the same water level in steady condition. When the Station discharges flow, transverse velocity in meander channel varies dramatically, increasing the difficulty of ship navigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Random adaptive finite element limit analysis (RAFELA) is introduced to investigate the stability of the footing-voids system with random soils. The emphasis of this study is, for the footing-void system, on quantifying the influence of spatial variability on its bearing capacity and the failure probability. Of particular interest is that random field theory is utilized to characterize the spatial variability of soil, and at the same time, failure probability is calculated by imposing Monte-Carlo simulations on independent cases. Strict close bearing capacity could be obtained within the scope embraced by upper bound (UB) results and lower bound (LB) results. By imposing the proposed modelling, comprehensive parametric studies were carried out, especially for the soil spatial correlation parameters and geometry parameters. The results indicated that the failure probability would increase with the farther distance between the void and the footing, the greater coefficient of variation (COV) and the smaller vertical correlation length. Detailed design tables were presented to assess potential failure probability under different conditions. Typical failure patterns are also summarized, revealing a positive correlation between the failure probability and the diffusion degree of failure curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart windows with excellent near-infrared (NIR) light shielding capacity and controlled visible light transmittance are expected to reduce building energy consumption and improve indoor comfort. However, the ability of current thermochromic materials to regulate solar gain with the tunable extinction of phase-change materials is still far from optimum. In this work, an fluorine (F)-doped ATO (FATO) nanocrystals (NCs) are designed as a photothermal material to optimize the solar modulation of thermochromic hydrogels. F ion doping can modify the electronic structure of ATO, resulting in a high concentration of oxygen vacancies and free electrons, thereby enhancing the NIR absorption performance and photothermal conversion performance of the ATO NCs. On this premise, the designed smart window based on FATO NCs and thermochromic hydrogels exhibits the remarkable features of excellent NIR shielding, high initial visible transmittance and fast response speed. The window is capable of shielding 99.5% of the solar radiation from 300 to 2500 nm and permitting 75.0% of initial visible light. Moreover, the simulated indoor temperature of the smart window was 17.2 °C lower compared with the black one, demonstrating potentials in practical application of building energy saving. [Display omitted] • Novel chain-like FATO NCs were prepared by precipitation-hydrothermal method. • F-doping optimized electronic structure of ATO and improved the LSPR absorption. • The fabrication of FATO-PNC hydrogel provides a novel idea for smart window. • The smart window could shield 99.5% of solar radiation after optical switching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The properties of socket wall significantly affect the loading capacity of a rock socketed pile, and the shear mobilization relies heavily on the roughness of the socket surface and the boundary condition in reality. In this study, laboratory tests have been conducted to investigate the performance of concrete-rock interface shear under constant normal stiffness (CNS) condition and, in particular, an alternative profile to characterize the interface roughness is assembled as series of similar triangular asperities. The profiles of rock samples differing in the dimension of asperities have been divided into five categories (including one kind of regular triangular asperities for comparison). Direct shear tests on the samples are carried out under CNS conditions, with different initial normal loads and normal stiffnesses. The observations indicate that the shear behavior of concrete-rock interface is highly dependent on the uniformity of asperity geometry; compared with the roughness of similar triangular asperities, the one of regular asperities behaves more brittleness and shows a higher peak strength as well as a lower residual strength. In addition to the general tendency, it is found that the local lift-off of some asperities is pronounced relied heavily on their heights, and the redistribution of local stresses can further affect the global shear behavior. The size-dependent sequence of asperity failure can be also observed, confirming the earlier theoretical anticipation reported by the authors. Careful observations during this testing made it possible to develop a micromechanics-based model published elsewhere, and the comparison between them are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The undrained stability of dual circular tunnels buried in spatially random soils is investigated by imposing the random adaptive finite element limit analysis (RAFELA). The emphasis is on quantifying the effect of influential factors including the geometry parameters and spatially variability parameters on the bearing capacity and failure probability of tunnels by assuming a lognormal distribution on undrained shear strength within a spatial correlation structure. Predictions were obtained by the scope enclosed by upper bound (UB) and lower bound results (LB) results within 5% relative errors. To account for a combined effect simultaneously caused by depths of tunnels, spaces between tunnels, soil weights, and spatially variability parameters on the stability of tunnels, all independent variables are involved in parametric studies in pairs. Results revealed several failure patterns and announced how the stability evolves with changes in tunnel geometry and soil spatial variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally invasive surgery provides an ideal method for pathologic diagnosis and curative intent of small pulmonary nodules (SPNs); however, the main problem with thoracoscopic resection is the difficulty in locating the nodules. The goal of this study was to determine the safety and feasibility of a new localization technique tailored for SPNs. A computed tomography (CT)-guided technique, which has a tri-colored suture and claw with 4 fishhook-shaped hooks, was designed to localize SPN preoperatively. Then a multicenter, prospective study was conducted to evaluate the safety and feasibility of this device. The primary endpoints included safety (asymptomatic/symptomatic pneumothorax or parenchymal hemorrhage, and unanticipated adverse effects) and success rate (precise placement and device fracture, displacement, or dislodgement). The secondary endpoints included feasibility (duration of the localization procedure and device fracture or fault) and patient comfort (pain). A total of 90 SPNs were localized from 80 patients. Overall, no symptomatic complications requiring medical intervention, with the exception of asymptomatic pneumothorax (n = 7 [7.8%]) and lung hemorrhages (n = 5 [5.6%]), were observed. The device was successfully placed without dislodgment or movement in 87 of 90 lesions (96.7%). The median nodule size was 0.70 cm (range, 0.30-1.0 cm). The median duration of the procedure was 15 minutes (range, 7-36 minutes). No patient complained of notable pain during or after the procedure. This new device for SPNs is safe, and has a high success rate, feasibility and good tolerance. Localization device design for lung nodules, patient enrollment, and clinical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, finite element limit analysis (FELA) is employed to investigate the undrained seismic bearing capacity of strip footings placed on two-layered slopes. Upper bound theorem (UB), lower bound theorem (LB) and adaptive meshing technique were used in parametric studies to investigate the effects of various factors on seismic bearing capacity N cs and failure mechanism, especially the seismic coefficient k h and the shear strength ratio of top layer and bottom layer c u1 / c u2. The angle of the slope β , the absolute strength of top layer c u /γ B , horizontal offset distance b and the thickness of top layer D are also taken into consideration. Furthermore, the comparisons between present study and previous studies are provided. Detailed design tables are presented to distinguish the failure patterns and estimate the seismic bearing capacity of slopes under different conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boundary conditions significantly affect the shear behavior of concrete-rock joints. Most of the joint models have been developed for the constant normal load (CNL) conditions but cannot be directly extended to the more general constant normal stiffness (CNS) conditions, as a 'normal stiffness (K)' serves as a spring in such a condition to constantly adjust the normal confinements in terms of the dilation. In this study, the authors attempted to set up numerical modeling of concrete-rock joint shearing by layered over-compaction method based on PFC2D. An obvious extension is that explicit spring-based kinetic equations were employed to govern the travel of the upper shear chamber, by which the system can be dynamically balanced at each timestep to permit CNS conditions. Also, an alternative joint profile consisting of multiple similar triangular asperities (STAs) was defined in the presented modeling, taking account of both varied asperity heights and sizes. The comparisons with laboratory observations, recently published by the authors, demonstrated that the model makes reasonable predictions of shear behavior, especially well capturing the essential mechanisms of STAs profile, including dilation, shearing, and local lift-off. Compared with CNL conditions, the CNS conditions can better mobilize the peak shear strength, maximum normal stress, micro-cracks, and force chain. Results indicate that an adequate choice of CNL or CNS conditions is of significance to evaluate the side resistance, loading capacity, or engineering stability in geotechnical engineering practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass valorization is regarded as a promising approach to alleviate energy crisis and achieve carbon neutrality. Bioactive enzymes have attracted great attention and been commonly applied for biomass valorization owing to their high selectivity and catalytic efficiency under environmentally benign reaction conditions. Same as biocatalysis, photo−/electro-catalysis also happens at mild conditions (i.e., near ambient temperature and pressure). Therefore, the combination of these different catalytic approaches to benefit from their resulting synergy is appealing. In such hybrid systems, harness of renewable energy from the photo−/electro-catalytic compartment can be combined with the unique selectivity of biocatalysts, therefore providing a more sustainable and greener approach to obtain fuels and value-added chemicals from biomass. In this review, we firstly introduce the pros/cons, classifications, and the applications of photo−/electro-enzyme coupled systems. Then we focus on the fundamentals and comprehensive applications of the most representative biomass-active enzymes including lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), glucose oxidase (GOD)/dehydrogenase (GDH) and lignin peroxidase (LiP), together with other biomass-active enzymes in the photo−/electro- enzyme coupled systems. Finally, we propose current deficiencies and future perspectives of biomass-active enzymes to be applied in the hybrid catalytic systems for global biomass valorization. • Lignocellulosic biomass valorization is an effective approach to alleviate energy crisis and achieve carbon neutrality. • The photo−/electro-enzyme coupled systems are more sustainable and greener to obtain fuels and value-added chemicals. • The state-of-the-art research progress of biomass-active enzymes in bio-photo/electro hybrid systems have been discussed. • Biomass-active enzymes hold great potentials in bio-photo/electro hybrid catalytic systems for global biomass valorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 61-year-old man had experienced an irritating cough for 1 month. He received a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma by bronchoscopy. Computed tomography showed a mass in the left hilum and mediastinal lymph node enlargement. After two cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the patient underwent a robotic assisted atypical sleeve lobectomy (left lower lobe + S4+5). The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged on the tenth postoperative day. This is the first description of the feasibility of robotic extended sleeve lobectomy for a lung cancer patient receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shear behavior of concrete-rock joints with similar triangular asperities (STAs) was investigated by numerical direct shear tests under constant normal stiffness (CNS) conditions based on particle flow code (PFC), and numerical models were validated by laboratory observations recently published by the authors. The failure patterns and shear load transfer of asperities on the joints were revealed in terms of shear micro-cracks and shear force chains on the micro-scale. For comparison, joints with conventional profile, regular triangular asperities (RTAs), were also examined. The comparisons showed that a prominent ductile behavior at post-peak most likely occurred for the STAs profile owing to asynchronous asperity failure rather than brittle shear caused by a synchronous failure of the RTAs profile. Results also indicated that there would exist a critical inclination to limit the further mobilization of joint dilation and it may be useful to guide the preliminary design of the rock-socketed pile foundation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finite element limit analysis (FELA) is used to study the undrained bearing capacity of strip footing above voids in two-layered clays. Based on the FELA results, design charts and equations are provided to calculate the undrained bearing capacity factor N s . The impact of parameters on N s also has been investigated, including undrained shear stress ratio of the soil, thickness of the top layer, location, size, width, height and spacing of the voids. The failure mechanisms for a single void maybe classified into three categories: roof failure, combined roof and wall failure, bearing failure without void failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two modes dominate wind-induced response of single-span and three-span frame canopies. • Propose generalized modal force spectrum formula for two dominant modes. • Propose semi-analytical expressions of equivalent static wind loads for canopies. Wind-induced response, spectrums of the modal generalized force, and equivalent static wind loads (ESWLs) of railway station canopies with single-span and three-span frame are investigated. The results show that the first mode dominates horizontal displacements and frame column stresses, and the second mode dominates vertical displacements and frame beam stresses of the canopy frames. The unfavorable wind directions are determined for the center, near-center and end frames. Based on wind tunnel test results, parameters of simplified mean wind dynamic pressure coefficients and the generalized modal force spectrum formula for the first and second modes are proposed for different canopy span, opening widths and building height ratios of the station building to the canopy. Combining above-mentioned wind-induced response characteristics with the analysis method of universal ESWLs, the ESWLs are derived as the superposition of the peak inertia forces of the two dominating modes, and all nodal displacements and all member stresses under this unique ESWLs are equivalent to the actual dynamic peak responses. The numerical example verifies that all nodal displacements and member stresses calculated by the proposed semi-analytical formula simultaneously agree well with the actual dynamic peak response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C f /SiC composite is an excellent structural and functional material, silicon carbide nanowires (SiCnws) are not only a toughening material but also a great application in the field of microwave absorption. In this study, SiCnws are grown on the surface of carbon fiber (C f) by polymer impregnation and pyrolysis, and the SiC matrix was prepared by chemical vapor osmosis method. The SiCnws are introduced to enhance the mechanical and microwave absorption properties simultaneously. After 3 impregnations, the flexural strength of the composite was 107.35 ± 10 MPa. When the thickness is 1.86 mm, the minimum reflection loss value is −41.08 dB, and the effective absorption bandwidth (RL ≤ −10 dB) is 3.86 GHz. Furthermore, the microwave absorption mechanism of the material is discussed. This work provides a new method to prepare lightweight, stable and high-performance microwave absorption materials, and these materials are expected to be used in high temperature environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term observation of atmospheric nitrous acid (HONO) was performed from August 2010 to June 2012 in urban area of Shanghai, China. In total, valid data for nineteen months were obtained. The monthly average HONO mixing ratio varied from 0.60 ppb in February 2011 to 1.20 ppb in December 2010, but no obvious monthly or seasonal variations were observed. The mean mixing ratio of HONO was obtained as 0.92 ± 0.57 ppb, with average HONO mixing ratio of 1.08 ± 0.63 ppb for night-time, and 0.76 ± 0.44 ppb for daytime. It was found that HONO mixing ratio is dependent on NO2 mixing ratio both in daytime and at night. Besides, high HONO level during daytime implicates that strong daytime sources must be active in Shanghai. The ratio of HONO to NO2 varied from 0.3% to 42.3% with a typical error of 1% and more than 99% of them below 17%. When NO2 mixing ratio was above 30 ppb, the HONO/NO2 ratio (HONO/NO2 averaged over 5.0 ppb intervals of NO2 mixing ratio) was nearly constant at 3.3 ± 0.2%. When the NO2 mixing ratio is below 30 ppb, however, the HONO/NO2 ratio appeared to increase as the NO2 mixing ratio decreased. Additionally, HONO/NO2 ratio depends obviously on relative humidity at night, while there is no obvious correlation between them during daytime. The average conversion frequency of HONO in sixteen selected days was about 0.007 h−1 under different NO2 pollution scenarios and higher conversion frequency tends to be occurred at lower NO2 levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An asymmetric failure mode of soil in front of laterally loaded piles at the slope crest is presented to estimate the pile bearing capacity in this study. The effect of soil shear strength below the rotation center is taken into account by postulating the suppositional sliding curve and corresponding mobilization coefficient of soil strength. Subsequently, the soil resistances above the rotation center at soil failure can be obtained by upper bound theorem of limit analysis. Employing static equilibrium equations, the analytical solution of lateral bearing capacity of piles is assessed by adopting the concept of effective embedment depth. The analytical solution, considering the the slope effect on limiting force profile, is then validated by numerical predictions and full-scale tests. Furthermore, a non-dimensional coefficient, capacity ratio, is proposed to characterize the slope effect on the bearing capacity of laterally loaded piles, and the range of capacity ratio for different internal friction angles are differentiated as different distribution areas. The effect of distance between the pile and slope crest on pile bearing capacity is further investigated, and the capacity ratios appear to be approximatively linear with normalized distance λ and would increase to 1 until λ exceeds the critical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The type-II heterostructured g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO NRAs films are synthesized via a light-assisted method. • A dense interface connection between g-C 3 N 4 and ZnO is achieved. • The heterostructured g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO NRAs films exhibit enhanced photocatalytic H 2 production. • The g-C 3 N 4 layer modification can inhibit ZnO photocorrosion. The type II heterostructured g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO nanorods arrays (NRAs) with intimate interface connection were successfully synthesized via a light-assisted method for photocatalytic H 2 production. Such type-II heterojunction between g-C 3 N 4 and ZnO not only promotes the charge separation and transport but also extends light absorption to the visible light region. In addition, the high physicochemical stability of g-C 3 N 4 layer keeps ZnO from photocorrosion during the reaction. Consequently, the heterostructured g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO NRAs demonstrate enhanced photocatalytic H 2 performance. In particular, the highest photocatalytic activity enhancement of g-C 3 N 4 /ZnO heterostructure is 3.3 times that of ZnO NRAs with a good stability of 85% retention rate after 5 cycles. Our work here presents an effective strategy to construct heterojunction between g-C 3 N 4 and metal oxide semiconductors for significantly enhanced photocatalytic H 2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a finite beam element method (FBEM) for analyzing the behavior of a two-pile foundation under eccentric and inclined loads located at sloping ground. A simplified physical model for the two-pile foundation is presented by dint of the strain wedge technique and FBEM. The emphasis is on establishing an element stiffness matrix, taking the P -Δ effect, the strengthening effect on the pile stiffness and the Pasternak's soil resistance into consideration. The global stiffness matrix can thus be assembled by these element stiffness matrixes, and the node force and deflection were identified by FBEM. The results are compared with field observations and exhibit satisfactory accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop a mounting-beams model predicting the behavior of geosynthetic reinforced and stone column-supported embankment with upper pavement under vehicle loads. Existing models are made a comparison with the proposed model, which can be deemed as their extension. Multiple factors, such as modified stiffness for tensionless granular mattress, the nonlinearity and consolidation of soft soils and the beam-soil interface resistance, are taken into account. On this basis, a parametric study is carried out to quantify the influence of bending stiffness of the upper pavement structure, the tensile stiffness of geosynthetic reinforcement, the vertical stiffness of a stone column wall, and the consolidation of soils on the response of the embankment system reinforced with geosynthetic and stone columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive finite element limit analysis (AFELA) is employed to investigate the stability of two circular tunnels at different depths in cohesive-frictional soils subjected to surcharge loading. The upper and lower bounds of the tunnel stability numbers are obtained, with the relative errors being found within ±5%. Five parametric studies are conducted to evaluate the effects of the horizontal and vertical spacing ratio, overburden stress factor, cover depth ratio and soil internal friction angle on the tunnel stability numbers. Design tables and charts are provided to facilitate engineers' use. In addition, typical failure mechanisms are discussed and examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper investigates the stability of dual circular tunnels in a rock mass subjected to surcharge loading using adaptive finite element limit analysis (AFELA). The tunnels are modelled under plain-strain conditions, and the rock mass is assumed to be a homogeneous and isotropic material obeying the Hoek-Brown failure criterion. For the studied problem, numerical kinematic and static approaches are employed to calculate the rigorous upper and lower bounds of the stability number N , which has been bracketed within ±5% from above and below. The calculated results are presented in the form of dimensionless stability charts, and the typical failure mechanisms are discussed through parametric studies of the problem variables using the visualized results of AFELA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper proposes a modified strain wedge model for the analysis of laterally loaded piles in sloping ground. The proposed model allows the assessment of the soil resistance along the pile and describes the stress-strain behaviour of the soils using a nonlinear stress-strain model. The modified strain wedge is divided into two parts: an upper soil wedge and a modified lower strain wedge. Two calculation methods for the two parts are discussed, and an in-situ test is used to verify the validity and accuracy of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recovery of natural vegetation is an effective but slow approach to control the soil erosion in the Chinese hill and gully Loess Plateau region. As seed stage is particularly vulnerable to environmental conditions, characteristics of seed population should be needed to study for determining whether the recovery of natural vegetation is limited during this stage on the abandoned slopes in this region. The study was performed on three abandoned slopes in a watershed with an area of 8.27 km 2 in the Shaanxi province of China. The differences in soil seed banks were investigated in two different points in time, late March 2011 and early April 2013. Main factors of seed population dynamics, such as seed yield of dominant species, seed inputs by seed rain as well as seed outputs through seed loss by overland flow and seedling emergence, were monitored from late March 2011 to early April 2013. In this study, seed rain densities of the main later successional species, i.e., Lespedeza davurica (Laxm.) Schindl., Stipa bungeana Trin. and Artemisia gmelinii Web. ex Stechm., accounted for 51.5–71.6% of their own seed yields. The soil seed bank density in early April 2013 was larger than that in late March 2011. The density of seed inputs by seed rain was 10186 seeds m −2 , and the total seed bank, including seed rain and seeds present in the soil seed bank in late March 2011, reached a density of 15018 seeds m −2 during the study period. Seed densities of loss duo to overland flow and seedling emergence were 79 seeds m −2 from 20 species and 938 seedlings m −2 that belonged to 38 species during a study period, and the seed output through them accounted for 0.5% and 6.3% of the total seed bank, respectively. The study concluded that overland flow could not result in large numbers of seeds loss and seeds were accumulating in the soil seed bank due to seed rain, and vegetation succession might be limited by curbed spatial seed dispersal and seedling establishment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational design of all-solid-state Z-scheme heterojunction with advanced structure is essential for boosting photocatalytic efficiency. Herein, we design and fabricate a novel Z-scheme photocatalyst with leaf architecture (named artificial leaf) via a simple dipping-calcination (DC) process followed by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) strategy. The prepared artificial leaf, composing of CdS, InVO 4 , and BiVO 4 , holds advanced leaf-like structure and Z-scheme electron transfer pathway. As a result, this novel artificial leaf exhibits outstanding capability for the harvesting of visible light and superior efficiency for the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, as well as remarkably enhanced photocatalytic performance and stability for H 2 evolution (with the rate of 5033 μm g−1∙h−1) and pollution degradation (46% pollution can be degraded within 3 h). [Display omitted] • Artificial leaf CdS–BiVO 4 –InVO 4 Z-scheme heterojunction system was synthesized. • Artificial leaf CdS–BiVO 4 –InVO 4 holds advanced leaf-like structure and Z-scheme electron transfer pathway. • Artificial leaf CdS–BiVO 4 –InVO 4 shows outstanding capability for visible light harvesting and carrier separation. • Artificial leaf CdS–BiVO 4 –InVO 4 exhibits an excellent photocatalytic activity for H 2 production and degradation of pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct removal of heavy metal ions from acidic wastewater is a hard problem. In this study, a novel superabsorbent, polyvinyl alcohol phosphate ester (PVAP), was designed and prepared to remove Pb(II) from acidic wastewater (pH = 3). The PVAP can absorb water and swell to reach equilibrium within 30 s, which provides the conditions for ultrafast kinetic adsorption. For 100 mg/L Pb(II) solution, the adsorption reaches equilibrium within 5 min, and the removal ratio is more than 99.9% over a wide pH range of 3–6. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm data are consistent with pseudo-second-order and Langmuir model, respectively. The calculated maximum adsorption capacity for Pb(II) is 558.66 mg/g. Thermodynamic results show that the adsorption is spontaneous and exothermic process. The removal ratio for Pb(II) of PVAP still maintains above 99% after ten recycles. The PVAP can also simultaneously remove more than 97% of other heavy metal ions (Cu(II), Cd(II), Zn(II), Co(II), and Ni(II)) from an acidic solution. Moreover, the PVAP can efficiently purify simulated acid mine heavy metal wastewater, and the results meet EPA drinking water standards. The studies of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy prove that the adsorption mechanism involves surface complexation. This new superabsorbent is a promising candidate for acidic heavy metal sewage disposal. [Display omitted] • A novel superabsorbent polymer was prepared to remove Pb(II). • The adsorbent could efficiently remove Pb(II) under acidic conditions. • The adsorption of Pb(II) reached equilibrium within only 5 min. • There was very little reduction in removal ratio after ten cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Observation of NO3 radicals was performed in an urban area of Shanghai using differential optical absorption spectroscopy from August 15 to October 7, 2011. With the exception of the data below detection limit (0.008 ppb), the observed mean NO3 mixing ratios were 0.016 ± 0.009 ppb with a range of 0.008–0.095 ppb. Under the assumption of steady state, the NO3 production rates were calculated ranging from 0.08 ppb h− 1 to 12.85 ppb h− 1 throughout the observation, and averaged at 1.10 ± 1.09 ppb h− 1. The calculated NO3 lifetime was determined from several seconds to a maximum value of about 900 s with an average of 102 ± 93 s. The correlation of NO3 production rates to the NO2 mixing ratio is about 0.76, which is larger than the correlation between NO3 production rates and O3. Hence, the variability of NO3 production mainly results from the ambient NO2 levels present. The positive correlation between the NO3 mixing ratio and its production rates indicates that direct sinks cannot be neglected for the nitrate radical''s chemistry in Shanghai, especially under polluted conditions. However, the slope of the logarithmic correlation between NO3 lifetime and NO2 mixing ratio is very close to −1, which means that the NO3 removal strongly depends on the indirect loss process. Moreover, the atmospheric suspended particles have an important impact on NO3 lifetime because the NO3 removal was accelerated by the high PM10 concentration, e.g. all NO3 lifetime are below 30 s when the PM10 concentration was larger than 0.05 mg m− 3 during the severe pollution episode in October. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region is one of the most economically developed regions of China and characterized by high level of urbanization, which comes with the consequence of severe deterioration of its atmospheric environment in a large regional scale. In order to characterize the fine particle pollution features representative for YRD, especially for the abundant and complex carbonaceous component, we deployed advanced on-line measurement at a regional site in Jiaxing in the central YRD area during June 29–July 15 (the summer campaign) and December 11–23 (the winter campaign), with a high resolution aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) and a single particle soot photometer (SP2). The mean PM1 mass concentration was observed to be 32.9 μg m−3 in summer, with organic matter (OM) and black carbon (BC) contributing 32.1 and 9.1%, respectively, and 41.9 μg m−3 in winter, with OM and BC contributing 30.3 and 16.9%, respectively. The O/C ratio of OM, an indicator for the oxidation level of organic aerosol, was calculated to be 0.28 in summer and 0.33 in winter, and the number fraction of internally mixed BC particles (NIB), an indicator for the aging level of BC, was calculated to be 0.51 in summer and 0.53 in winter. Two popular independent methods were used to estimate the amount of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) in Jiaxing: one is the positive matrix factorization method utilizing the high resolution aerosol mass spectra (the AMS-PMF method), and the other is the simple OC/EC ratio method (the OC/EC method). The AMS-PMF method estimated that SOA averagely accounted for 68.3 and 30.2% of OM in summer and winter, respectively. The SOA amount estimated by the OC/EC method was found to agree well with that by the AMS-PMF method in summer, but strong biomass burning events in winter made the OC/EC method over-estimate SOA largely. The seasonal variation of SOA indicates that SOA production in YRD is more determined by ambient temperatures than by precursors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The optimal treatment for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients remains controversial. We aimed to compare internal fixation and bipolar hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in elderly patients. Methods: 124 patients aged over 70 years were enrolled into this study (64 internal fixations, 60 bipolar hemiarthroplasties). Patients were followed for two years, and had a clinical, radiological, and functional review at three, six, and twelve months as well as two years. Results: In the internal fixation group, the fracture reduction and internal fixation were regarded as satisfactory in 44 cases and unsatisfactory in 20 cases. Five patients in the internal fixation group (two with satisfactory results and three with unsatisfactory results) and three patients in the arthroplasty group died before the final two-year follow-up. Five patients in the internal fixation group who had unsatisfactory results suffered complications. At 24 months post-operation, patients who were treated satisfactorily with internal fixation had higher Harris scores, less pain, and better walking ability than those treated with hemiarthroplasty and unsatisfactory internal fixation. Conclusions: Internal fixation with good reduction and fixation quality should be the preferred therapeutic method for elderly unstable intertrochanteric fractures, even when severe osteoporosis is present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Total and differential settlements are major concerns in embankment design. Geosynthetic-reinforced and pile-supported embankments are recent innovations designed to reduce the total and differential settlements of an embankment, especially on soft subgrade soil. In this paper, semi-analytical solutions were developed to assess the performance of this type of embankment. The geosynthetic-reinforced cushion was idealized as an elastic foundation beam. The vertical piles and subgrade soils were idealized as elastic springs. Winkler’s elastic foundation beam theory was used in the analysis, which considered the shear resistances at the top and bottom of the geosynthetic-reinforced cushion. Semi-analytical solutions were proposed to quantify the effects of various factors, such as soil–beam interface resistance, pile stiffness, pile spacing and the elastic modulus of the foundation beam. It was found that the maximum and differential settlements of the foundation beam can be reduced by increasing pile stiffness, reducing pile spacing, and increasing the elastic modulus of the beam. The characteristics of geosynthetic reinforcement play an important role because they are directly related to the tension strength and elastic modulus of the foundation beam. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Geocell mattresses are widely used in soil reinforcement due to their three-dimensional configuration, which can effectively confine and reinforce soil filled in their pockets. However, design of geocell mattresses has not been well described in the literature. In this paper, a decoupled iterative method is presented to assess the behavior of a geocell mattress subjected to symmetric loads by modeling the mattress as a geometrically nonlinear beam resting on a nonlinear foundation. The nonlinearity of the foundation soil is represented by an elastic-perfectly plastic model. The tensionless nature of the soil is also taken into account in the model. Classical Winkler foundation beam theory is extended to solve the geocell reinforcement problem, with consideration of the lateral interfacial shearing resistance at the top and bottom of the beam. This resistance is assumed to be linearly proportional to the relative lateral displacement of the beam. The solution presented in this paper is verified by comparison with the two other existing published solutions for this problem. The effects of the two nonlinear parameters, i.e., the soil yield displacement and the beam geometric nonlinearity coefficient, on the deflection and tensile force within the beam are discussed. The results indicate that both the nonlinearity of the subgrade soil and the geometric nonlinearity of the beam significantly affect the beam’s response, especially when the beam undergoes a large deflection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Geocell reinforcement has been increasingly applied to road embankment engineering. Deformation calculation is one of the major concerns during the design process. In this paper, the power-series method was employed to investigate the performance of a geocell-reinforced mattress under symmetric loads. The geocell-reinforced mattress was idealized as a beam on a Winkler foundation. In the analysis, the soil–foundation beam interface resistance, related to the horizontal deformation coupling with the vertical deformation, was considered. Semi-analytic solutions were developed to assess the deformations and internal forces of the foundation beam and verified against an existing finite element method . The results of the proposed method were close to the results from the finite element method. Moreover, the effects of various factors, such as height of embankment, horizontal and vertical foundation coefficients, composite elastic modulus and height of geocell-reinforced mattress, on the foundation beam settlement and the tension force within the beam are discussed. It was found that the interface resistance related to the horizontal deformation of the beam has a reduction effect on the embankment settlement, and it is beneficial to reduce the embankment settlement by increasing the beam rigidity and strengthening the subgrade soil body. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Geocell reinforcement has been increasingly applied to embankment engineerings. Deformation calculation is one of the major concerns during the design process. Using Winkler foundation model and with consideration of the interface resistance effect, a deformation control differential equation for the geocell reinforced mattress under the vertical symmetric loads is presented in this paper. The corresponding power-series semi analytic solutions for the displacements and the internal forces of geocell reinforcement are also presented. Furthermore, the influence factors such as loads, length and flexural rigidity of geocell reinforcement, coefficient of subgrade reaction and the interface resistance on the stress-deformation characteristic of geocell reinforcement are discussed. Finally, two examples are employed to verify the presented method. This study suggests that the effect of the interface resistance on the deformation of geocell reinforcement should be considered in engineering design. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]