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The influence of trace amounts of Sn on the formation of the LPSO phase and mechanical properties of Mg–RE–Zn alloys is discussed. Results show that trace Sn has no effect on the phase category of the alloy. After annealing, however, Sn-doped alloys show a high density of the lamellar-shaped LPSO phase. After Sn addition, the strength of the alloy is enhanced but its elongation is reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured with high multiplexibility, suspension microarray technology usually involves the conjugation of second-antibody with organic dye based fluorescent proteins, which are inherently unsuitable for multicolor signaling under single wavelength excitation. In addition, application of single QDs-based fluorescent reporter in suspension microarray is dramatically hampered since its preparation often suffers from poor reproducibility and stability. Herein, a novel suspension microarray system based on dual color quantum dots (QDs) nanobead as fluorescence label was developed for simultaneous detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA) biomarkers. When both antigens are present in sera sample, free (f)-PSA antibody-conjugated green and complexed (c)-PSA antibody-conjugated red QDs nanobeads would be both specifically absorbed onto the surface of total PSA antibody-conjugated magnetic beads, leading to the formation of magnetic fluorescent hybrid that can be purified from the mixture by an external magnet prior to flow cytometry analysis. The proposed method demonstrates simultaneous detection ability for f- and c- PSA antigen assay with high detection sensitivity that is comparable to clinical approaches including ELISA and chemiluminescence assay. Furthermore, result of clinical application of the proposed method is consistency with clinical data, demonstrating its potential in suspension microarray for accurate prostate cancer diagnosis. [Display omitted] • Dual PSA antigens could be simultaneous detected on a single bead. • Only a single laser channel is required for the duplexing assay. • Detection limit of 22 and 45 pg/mL for f- and c- PSA antigen could be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research on microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is rising tremendously but its commercialization is restricted by several microbiological, material, and economic constraints. Hence, a systematic assessment of the research articles published previously focusing on potential upcoming directions in this field is necessary. A detailed multi-perspective analysis of various techniques for enhancing the efficiency of MFC in terms of electric power production is presented in this paper. A brief discussion on the central aspects of different issues are preceded by an extensive analysis of the strategies that can be introduced to optimize power generation and reduce energy losses. Various applications of MFCs in a broad spectrum ranging from biomedical to underwater monitoring rather than electricity production and wastewater treatment are also presented followed by relevant possible case studies. Mathematical modeling is used to understand the concepts that cannot be understood experimentally. These methods relate electrode geometries to microbiological reactions occurring inside the MFC chamber, which explains the system's behavior and can be improved. Finally, directions for future research in the field of MFCs have been suggested. This article can be beneficial for engineers and researchers concerned about the challenges faced in the application of MFC. [Display omitted] • Basic principles and mathematical modeling of MFC technology are discussed. • Limitations in various electrode and membrane materials are outlined. • Mass transfer limitations as well the ways to overcome are provided. • All potential applications of MFC technology are included with case studies. • Need for MFC standardization to indicate power performance is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Making bread with an addition of Bb12 at the beginning of manufacturing process. [•] Research on the viable counts of Bb12 inside the dough during baking. [•] Properties of bread related to the heat inactivation are measured during baking. [•] “Probiotic bread” possibly can be made base on this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports a microfluidic platform for clogging-free electrical property analysis of single cells. A pneumatically driven membrane-based active valve was integrated in this platform to unblock clogging events of constriction microchannels where pneumatic pressures were used to tune the deformation of a polydimethylsiloxan (PDMS) membrane serving as one wall of the constriction microchannel. The proposed platform was first tested to unblock trapped polystyrene beads at the entrance of constriction microchannels and then the characterization of the cellular electrical properties of lung cancer cells was successfully demonstrated. Results showed that the measured cytoplasm conductivity (0.74±0.20S/m) and specific membrane capacitance (2.17±0.58μF/cm2) of cells were consistent with the results from the previous publications (0.73±0.17S/m, and 2.00±0.60μF/cm2, respectively). Overall, this study has presented a microfluidic platform for single cell analysis with an enhanced function for unblocking cell aggregates at the entrance of microchannels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Point-of-care diagnostics (POCD) for blood coagulation benefit patients on-site, but available POCD devices are too expensive to be affordable in many countries. Optically based methodologies are cheap and reliable, and have been exploited in bench-top coagulometers to monitor coagulation with plasma, but not whole blood, which contains cellular components that cause massive interference. However, the POCD testing of whole blood gives a more accurate picture of physiological conditions than does testing plasma. In this study, a portable device for performing the prothrombin time (PT) test was designed, comprising an optical sensor, an electrical processing and control circuit to monitor the optical changes that occurred during the coagulation process in whole blood. The PT was when the slope of the first-order derivative of the coagulation curve, recorded from real-time light transmittance signals, was maximal. The POCD PT testing of 167 samples revealed that 153 (91.6%) were successfully detected and the results were highly consistent with the results of whole blood international normalized ratio (INR) (r=0.985, p<0.001) by the conventional manual method and those of plasma INR (r=0.948, p<0.001) with the ACL TOP 700 bench-top coagulometer (Beckman Colter). Hematological parameters were further analyzed, revealing that fibrinogen titers (p=0.036), red blood cell numbers (p=0.017) and distribution of red cell width (p=0.015) affected the effectiveness of the current POCD PT determination. Furthermore, a highly positive correlation was revealed between fibrinogen titers and the maximum speed of change in transmittance (v/t) (r=0.805, p<0.001), suggesting that fibrinogen might be evaluated simultaneously in this POCD testing. In conclusion, the proposed portable optical-based device performs the highly sensitive and accurate determination of whole blood PT and has commercial potential because of its small volume and low fabrication cost. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effects of Mn substitution for Mg on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of Mg69−xZn27Ca4Mnx (x=0, 0.5 and 1at.%) alloys were investigated using X-ray diffraction, compressive tests, electrochemical treatments, and immersion tests, respectively. Microstructural observations showed that the Mg69Zn27Ca4 alloy was mainly amorphous. The addition of Mn decreases the glass-forming ability, which results in a decreased strength from 545MPa to 364MPa. However, this strength is still suitable for implant application. Polarization and immersion tests in the simulated body fluid at 37°C revealed that the Mn-doped Mg–Zn–Ca alloys have significantly higher corrosion resistance than traditional ZK60 and pure Mg alloys. Cytotoxicity test showed that cell viabilities of osteoblasts cultured with Mn-doped Mg–Zn–Ca alloys extracts were higher than that of pure Mg. Mg68.5Zn27Ca4Mn0.5 exhibits the highest bio-corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and has desirable mechanical properties, which could suggest to be used as biomedical materials in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The conflict between climate change and growing global energy demand is an immense sustainability challenge that requires noteworthy scientific and technological developments. Recently the importance of microbial fuel cell (MFC) on this issue has seen profound investigation due to its inherent ability of simultaneous wastewater treatment, and power production. However, the challenges of economy-related manufacturing and operation costs should be lowered to achieve positive field-scale demonstration. Also, a variety of different field deployments will lead to improvisation. Hence, this review article discusses the possibility of integration of MFC technology with various technologies of recent times leading to advanced sustainable MFC technology. Technological innovation in the field of nanotechnology, genetic engineering, additive manufacturing, artificial intelligence, adaptive control, and few other hybrid systems integrated with MFCs is discussed. This comprehensive and state-of-the-art study elaborates hybrid MFCs integrated with various technology and its working principles, modified electrode material, complex and easy to manufacture reactor designs, and the effects of various operating parameters on system performances. Although integrated systems are promising, much future research work is needed to overcome the challenges and commercialize hybrid MFC technology. [Display omitted] • The impact of COVID-19 on global energy consumption and climate change is reviewed. • A comprehensive overview of microbial fuel cell technology is provided. • Understanding electron transfer with the help of various potentials is focussed. • Several technologies aid in enhancing the MFC power performance are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • In vitro colon models are in high demand. • The complexity of in vitro models depends on the research target. • Microbiota composition, reaction and reactor design are highly important for in vitro colon models. • Solid state fermentation, biofilm and high cell density technologies facilitate the colon model development. The search for life/health quality has driven the search for a better understanding of food components on the overall individual health, which turns to be intrinsically related to the digestive system. In vitro digestion models are considered an alternative for the in vivo studies for a variety of practical reasons, but further research is still needed concerning the colon model establishment. An effective in vitro colon model should consider all unit operations and transport phenomena, together with chemical and biochemical reactions, material handling and reactor design. Due to the different techniques and dependence on the donor microbiota, it is difficult to obtain a standard protocol with results reproductible in time and space. Furthermore, the colon model should be fed with a representative substrate, thus what happens in upper digestion tract and absorption prior to colon is also of crucial importance. Essentially, there are two ways to think about how to achieve a good and useful in vitro colon model: a complex biomimetic system that provides results comparable with the in vivo studies or a simple system, that despite the fact it could not give physiologically relevant data, it is sufficient to understand the fate of some specific components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheum palmatum L ; Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.), is referred to as 'Dahuang, Huangqi' in China. As an important medicinal plant, the rhizome of rhubarb and astragalus is traditionally used in the treatment of kidney diseases associated with renal failure, inflammation and tumors. Aim of the study : This study aimed to investigate the effect of a drug-containing serum of rhubarb-astragalus capsules (composed of rhubarb and astragalus) and to elucidate its mechanism in the epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of renal tubular epithelial cells. Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of HK-2 cells was induced by TGF-β1, and rhubarb-astragalus and losartan drug-containing serum from rats, as well as SB203580 (a specific inhibitor of p38 MAPK), were used. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis was performed to determine the main components of the drug-containing serum of rhubarb-astragalus from rats. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis were used to determine the levels of protein expression, and real-time quantitative PCR analysis was used to detect the levels of gene expression. The drug-containing serum of rhubarb-astragalus contained emodin (0.36 μg/ml) and danthraquinone (0.96 μg/ml). Rhubarb-astragalus significantly decreased the protein expression levels of α-SMA, FN, vimentin and N-cadherin in HK-2 cells that were increased by TGF-β1, while it significantly increased the E-cadherin protein expression level that was decreased by TGF-β1. Rhubarb-astragalus also significantly decreased the protein expression levels of TGF-β1 and p38 MAPK and the mRNA expression levels of α-SMA, vimentin, TGF-β1, p38 MAPK, Smad2 and Smad3 in HK-2 cells that were increased by TGF-β1. It is worth noting that SB203580 (a p38 MAPK inhibitor) had similar effects as rhubarb-astragalus in this study. The drug-containing serum of rhubarb-astragalus can inhibit EMT in HK-2 cells by downregulating the TGF-β1/p38 MAPK/Smad2/3 pathway. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Respiratory sensitizers are considered as substances of higher risk, at the same level as carcinogens, mutagens and toxic chemicals for reproduction. Presently, there is no validated assay for identifying the respiratory sensitizers. Based on a fully differentiated and functional in vitro cell model of the human airway epithelium, MucilAir™, we attempt to develop such assay. To this end, we invented a novel method, using Dextran as carrier, for applying the water insoluble chemicals to the apical surface of the airway epithelia. Using the Dextran carrier method, we successfully tested some reference chemical compounds known to cause respiratory sensitisation in human beings, including MDI, TMA and HCPt. Interestingly, these chemical sensitizers differentially up-regulated the releases of certain cytokines and chemokines involved in allergic responses. We believe that based on MucilAir™ an in vitro assay could be developed for identification and characterization of the respiratory sensitizers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Dodecyl sulfate anion (DS−) intercalated magnesium iron layered double hydroxide (DS–Mg–Fe LDH) was firstly prepared by the co-precipitation method, and was characterized by the means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier infrared (FT-IR), Total Organic Carbon analysis (TOC), themogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA) and surface characteristics analysis (BET-N2). The sorption characteristics and mechanisms of hydrophobic organic contaminants (naphthalene, nitrobenzene, acetophenone) and hydrophilic contaminant (aniline) on DS–Mg–Fe LDH were investigated, and were subsequently compared with that on the inorganic magnesium iron layered double hydroxides (CO3–Mg–Fe LDH and NO3–Mg–Fe LDH). The greater sorption amount of organic contaminants on DS–Mg–Fe LDH than on CO3–Mg–Fe LDH and NO3–Mg–Fe LDH indicated that organic modified LDHs were potential sorbents for the abatement of organic contaminants. Sorption mechanism on DS–Mg–Fe LDH varied with the types of organic contaminants. The uptake curves of naphthalene, nitrobenzene and acetophenone on DS–Mg–Fe LDH were linear, and sorption capacities for three hydrophobic compounds were in the sequence of their hydrophobicity (refers to water solubility or K ow). These results suggested that the sorption mechanism was the partition between water and the organic interlayer phase composed of the alkyl chain of DS−. After eliminating the influence of the hydrophobicity, the polar compounds (nitrobenzene and acetophenone) exhibited higher affinity to DS–Mg–Fe LDH than nonpolar compound (naphthalene), which demonstrated that both the hydrophobicity and polarity benefited the sorption of hydrophobic compounds on organic LDHs. For hydrophilic compound, aniline, its uptake curve was nonlinear. The sorption process of aniline was the cooperation of the adsorption on hydroxide surface through forming the hydrogen bonding and the weak partition to the interlayer organic phase. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mg69Zn27Ca4 with a spot of Fe particle-reinforced alloys was synthesized by Cu-mold injection casting using industrial raw materials. The microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of these Mg-based alloys were studied by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimeter, compressive testing and electrochemical measurements, respectively. The Mg69Zn27Ca4 alloy can be controlled to become fully amorphous using the industrial raw materials. With Fe particle addition, ductile α-Mg and Mg–Zn dendrites were embedded in the amorphous matrix, which enhanced the compressive strength and fracture strain. The Mg69Zn27Ca4 glassy alloy and Mg69Zn27Ca4/Fe alloy remarkably improved the corrosion resistance in 3.5wt% NaCl solution compared with AZ31 and pure Mg. Therefore, Mg69Zn27Ca4 and Mg69Zn27Ca4/Fe alloys have high potential as engineering materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: Dietary obesity is usually characterized by leptin resistance and abnormal lipid metabolism. Lithocarpus polystachyus Rehd.(Sweet Tea) leaf is a kind of Chinese folkloric medicine, and it has been widely used for obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in South China. The present study is aimed at investigating the pharmacological mechanism of the anti-hyperleptinaemia effects of Sweet Tea leaves extract in high fat diet-induced obese rats. Materials and methods: We induced high fat diet obesity for 14weeks to test the corrective effects of three ST doses (75, 150 and 300mg/kg per day) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, body weight, fasting blood glucose and serum lipids, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), fasting serum insulin and leptin, C-reactive protein, adiponectin and resistin levels were measured, Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) was also calculated. mRNA gene expression of PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ) and C/EBPα(CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α) in epididymal adipose tissue of DIO control and experimental groups were evaluated. Results: Sweet Tea leaves extract could significantly decrease the levels of serum lipids, attenuate body weight gain and lower circulatingleptin and insulin levels, ameliorate the state of oxidative stress, raise serum adiponectin, reduce circulating CRP and resistin levels, and depress the expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα in epididymal adipose tissue of obese rats. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that ST can effectively attenuate the leptin resistance at least through anti-hyperlipidemic activity and thus has the therapeutic potential in treating hyperlipidemia and hyperleptinaemia related to dietary obesity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents the results of tribological investigations conducted on steel 20 with the carbon content of up to 0.2%. The steel was studied in the three conditions: initial (hot-rolled), after heat-treatment (quenching+tempering) and after heat treatment with subsequent severe plastic deformation (SPD) performed by equal channel angular pressing technique (ECAP). It was stated that after various treatments the material acquires various structural conditions and possesses various strength properties and has a considerable difference in oxygen content in the surface layer. This influences the tribological properties during the contact with tool steel. The lowest values of adhesive bond shear strength, friction coefficient and wear rate are demonstrated in the material after martempering with subsequent SPD by ECAP technique. As a result of complex investigations, it has been revealed that severe plastic deformation by equal channel angular pressing technique enhances efficiently the strength of the low-carbon steel due to grain structure refinement observed by the sample of the low-carbon steel. This considerably influences the decrease of the friction coefficient and its adhesive component. The increased oxygen content on the material surface after SPD compared to both initial condition and after heat-treatment contributes to stronger passivation of the surface due to formation of oxide films, which together with strain hardening contributes to decrease of the friction coefficient in the specified temperature range, and increase of wear resistance as well. The surface of the investigated material after SPD treatment by the ECAP technique possesses a highest bearing capacity and requires more time for wearing-in in friction assemblies. Oxygen content increase in the form of metal oxides on the surface of low-carbon steels is accompanied by a decrease of the adhesive component of friction coefficient. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study reports a new microfluidic device for continuous generation of alginate microbeads. The working mechanism is based on the use of a pneumatically driven micro-vibrator to continuously generate tiny alginate microdroplets into a thin oil layer. The temporarily formed alginate microdroplets soon sink into a sterile calcium chloride solution to form jelled microbeads. By regulating the flow rate of the alginate suspension and the pulsing frequency of the micro-vibrator, the size of the alginate microbeads can be controlled. Experimental results showed that alginate microbeads with sizes ranging from 73 to 302μm in diameter can be generated at suspension flow rates and vibration frequency ranges of 1.48–9.35μl/min and 2–16Hz, respectively. For the aforementioned parameter ranges, the alginate microbeads had reasonable size uniformity with coefficients of variation from 3.8% to 7.8%. Moreover, its application for the microencapsulation of chondrocytes in alginate microbeads has also been demonstrated with high cell viability (94±2%). As a whole, the proposed device has opened up a route to generate alginate microbeads or microencapsulation of cells in a simple, continuous, controllable, uniform, and cell-friendly manner with less contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study reports a new microfluidic-based filter for size-tunable separation of microbeads or cells. The filtration separation mechanism is based on the pneumatically tunable deformation of poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes, which block the fluid channel with a varied degree. This defines the dimensions of the open area of the fluid channel and thus determines the maximum diameter the microbeads or cells which can pass through. The proposed device incorporates pneumatic micropumps for automatic liquid handling. Another unique feature of this filter is an unclogging mechanism using a back-flush operating mode, by which a reverse-directional flow is utilized to flush the clogged filter zone. The separation performance of the proposed device has been experimentally evaluated. Results show that this developed device is able to provide precise size-dependent filtration, with a high passage efficiency (82–89%) for microbeads with sizes smaller than the defined void space in the filter zone. Also, the proposed separation mechanism is also capable of providing a reasonable filtration rate (14.9–3.3μl/min). Furthermore, the separation of chondrocytes from a 30μl suspension of enzymatically digested tissue is successfully demonstrated, showing an excellent cell passage efficiency of 93% and a cell viability of 96%. The proposed device is therefore capable of performing cell separation in situations where either the harvested specimen is limited or the sample cell content is sparse. It also paves a new route to delicately separate or to isolate cells in a simple and controllable manner. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, we examine the interaction between a retailer's information acquisition and a manufacturer's advertising strategies by incorporating the advertising threshold effect under manufacturer encroachment. We elaborate on two acquisition timings, namely, ex ante acquisition and ex post acquisition, depending on whether the retailer makes the information acquisition decision before or after the manufacturer's advertising decision. We demonstrate that under ex ante acquisition, the retailer's acquisition incentive and the manufacturer's optimal advertising level exhibit a non-monotonic relationship with the advertising threshold. Under ex post acquisition, given that the threshold is not too high, the retailer's acquisition incentive weakly increases with the advertising threshold, and the optimal advertising level is always pushed up by the advertising threshold effect and the acquisition inducing effect. More importantly, the advertising threshold effect does not necessarily hurt (benefit) the manufacturer (retailer), as the information acquisition effect can conditionally alleviate the detrimental effect of the advertising threshold. Moreover, the retailer may prefer either ex ante acquisition or ex post acquisition, depending on the advertising level comparison. By contrast, the manufacturer prefers ex post acquisition only when the acquisition incentive under ex post acquisition is higher than that under ex ante acquisition; otherwise, the manufacturer always weakly prefers ex ante acquisition. • The interaction between a retailer's information acquisition and a manufacturer's advertising strategies is studied. • The advertising threshold effect is incorporated under manufacturer encroachment. • Two acquisition timings, namely, ex ante acquisition and ex post acquisition, are examined. • The advertising threshold effect does not necessarily hurt (benefit) the manufacturer (retailer). • The firms may prefer either ex ante acquisition or ex post acquisition under certain conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Less-time consuming and low cost electrocatalyst developed by probe sonication method. • Ni-SiO 2 nanoparticles decorated graphene nanosheets catalyst exhibits superior activity to guaifenesin drug. • Highly sensitive amperometric method explored for guaifenesin oxidation with detection limit of 5.7 nM. A highly sensitive amperometric method is performed for determination of the pharmaceutical drug guaifenesin (GFN), which is commonly used for temporary relief from congested chest, cough and other breathing illnesses. Over dosages of GFN may cause nausea and vomiting. Hence, developing a sensor strip for rapid detection of GFN is essential. In this regard, we prepared Ni-SiO 2 nanosphere-decorated multilayer graphene nanosheets (Ni-SiO 2 /MLG) composite catalyst for GFN detection by probe sonication. The catalyst was characterised by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Disposable screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) were modified with Ni-SiO 2 /MLG catalyst to evaluate GFN oxidation behaviour by cyclic voltammetry and amperometry techniques. Ni-SiO 2 /MLG/SPCE exhibited a good linear range of detection (0.1–317.5 µM), high sensitivity (408.88 µA mM−1 cm−2) and low detection limit (5.7 nM). It is also exhibited high selectivity to GFN in the presence of interference molecules within the high positive potential range. Stability and reproducibility analyses indicated that the unique Ni-SiO 2 /MLG composite materials can be an excellent candidate to fabricate a flexible electrode for biosensing and other electrochemical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study reports a new perfusion-based, micro three-dimensional (3-D) cell culture platform for drug testing using enabling microfluidic technologies. The features of this cell culture platform include maintaining homogenous and stable culture environments, efficient medium delivery and cells/agarose (scaffold) loading; allowing realization of more precise and high-throughput cell culture-based assays. In this work, the perfusion-based, micro 3-D cell culture platform was designed and was fabricated based on SU-8 lithography and PDMS (poly-dimethylsiloxane) replication processes. The performance of the integrated pneumatic micropumps and cells/agarose loading mechanism were experimentally evaluated. The results show that in all of the 15 pneumatic micropumps studied, the medium delivery mechanism was able to provide a uniform flow output at flow rates ranging from 3.6μl/h to 439.0μl/h, depending on the applied pulsation frequency of the micropumps. In addition, the cell/agarose (scaffold) loading mechanism was proven to be able to perform sample loading tasks precisely and accurately in all of the 15 microbioreactors investigated with adjustable loading volumes of 0.22μl, 0.18μl and 0.14μl at applied air pressures of 10psi, 12psi and 15psi, respectively, in the microvalves. Furthermore, anti-cancer drug testing was successfully demonstrated using the proposed culture platform and fluorescent microscopic observation. As a whole, because of miniaturization, not only does this perfusion 3-D cell culture platform provide a homogenous and steady cell culture environment, but it also reduces the need for human intervention. Moreover, due to the integrated pumping of the medium and the cell/agarose (scaffold) loading mechanisms, time efficient and economical research work can be achieved. These characteristics are found particularly useful for high-precision and high-throughput 3-D cell culture-based drug testing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study used an un-balanced magnetron sputtering system to deposit different thickness of diamond-like carbon (DLC) film on Co–Cr–Mo and Ti–6A1–4V alloy substrate. Wear test, Raman spectroscopy analysis, nano-indentation test and morphology of contact surface were conducted to evaluate the tribological performance of these films for bio-medical applications. The ring-on-disk wear testing shows that the thicker film leads to the lower friction coefficient and higher wear resistance. In the testing process, the fluctuating friction coefficient of DLC coated Co–Cr–Mo substrate was less than that of DLC coated Ti–6Al–4V substrate. Raman spectroscopy analysis and nano-indentation test provide the underlying mechanism for the enhancement of the wear resistance. The DLC coated Co–Cr–Mo substrate provides better wear resistance than the DLC coated Ti–6Al–4V substrate owing to better adhesion of DLC film to the Co–Cr–Mo substrate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The experiments of electronic speckle pattern interferometer (ESPI) successfully applied to sandwich plates with two inserts has been earliest presented in this paper. Proposed ESPI has advantages of full-field and non-destructive testing, which can measures microscopic out-of-plane displacement in the elastic region without wasting specimen. For validation purpose, the finite element method (FEM) analysis was conducted. By comparing the results of ESPI and FEM displacement fields around the inserts, a convincing agreements is revealed. The effect of insert spatial interval on the deformation of two-inserted sandwich plates was obtained by the ESPI and FEM: the wider the spatial interval of the two inserts is, the bigger the out-of-plane displacement at the insert center of sandwich loaded by the same force is. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the enantioselective hydrolysis of (R,S)-ethyl 2-hydroxy-4-phenylbutyrate ((R,S)-EHPB) in isooctane or in a biphasic solution, Lipase PS having an enantiomeric ratio (i.e. the E value) of 22 for the (S)-enantiomer was screened as the best lipase to produce the remaining (R)-ethyl 2-hydroxy-4-phenylbutyrate ((R)-EHPB). When (R)-2-hydroxy-4-phenylbutanoic acid ((R)-HPBA) was the desired product, one might employ Novozym 435, possessing (R)-stereoselectivity with E=22, as the biocatalyst. The results of using Lipase PS in the enantioselective transesterification of (R,S)-EHPB in isooctane indicated that addition of more vinyl acetate (VA) could suppress the hydrolysis side-reaction, leading to an apparent E value >100. The result of E>100 was also found when initial VA concentration was fixed at 80 mM and (R,S)-EHPB concentrations increased from 5.4 to 190 mM. Vinyl laurate was further selected as the best acyl donor after comparing the enzyme performances among all vinyl esters employed and considering the easiness of product separation in the down-stream process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Various studies on stress–strain modeling of adhesively bonded sandwich beams are briefly described in this paper. An analytical model of sandwich beams taking into account contribution of adhesive layers towards the overall beam stiffness is then proposed. In this model the displacements of each of the five constituent layers of a sandwich beam are computed considering the overall continuity conditions of the sandwich beam. The Euler–Ostrogradskii equations are used to derive the equations of equilibrium, which contain four differential equations with 12 orders. For validation purpose, a case study of a simply supported three-point bending sandwich beam subjected to a load at the mid-span of the beam is carried out using the proposed analytical method, finite element method and a theory proposed by Allen [Analysis and Design of Structural Sandwich Panels, Oxford, UK, 1969]. From the comparison of results obtained from the three methods, there are reasons to suggest improvements in reliability and accuracy of the proposed analytical method, which takes the effect of the adhesive layers into account, over Allen’s theory. The proposed method has clearly shown that the contribution of the adhesive layers to the overall strength of a given sandwich beam cannot be neglected. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A series of 2-arylindoles containing novel heteroaromatic substituents on the tryptamine tether, based on compound 1, was prepared and evaluated for their ability to act as gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists. Successful modifications of 1 included chain length variation (reduction) and replacement of the pyridine with heteroaromatic groups. These alterations culminated in the discovery of compound 27kk which had excellent in vitro potency and oral efficacy in rodents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Four lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were cultured in reconstituted skim milk with different solids contents to compare the thermotolerance of resulting cultures. As milk concentration was increased from 5 to 30 wt%, the population of non-lactose-fermenting strains increased by around 1 log at stationary growth phase. High solids milk maintained relative stable pH (ΔpH<0.5) when fermented with a lactose-fermenting strain, compared to a drastic pH drop by 1.35 in low solids milk. All four strains cultured in 20 or 30 wt% milk demonstrated significant improvements in cell survival (remaining viability > 108 CFU/mL) and growth capability after heat treatment at 65 °C for 10 min, indicating a general thermoprotective effect irrespective of metabolic pathways. Besides cellular response to high osmolality during bacterial growth, we proposed that the increased concentration of protective dairy components and the increased viscosity and thermal resistance of culture medium also contributed to the excellent thermotolerance. • LAB grown in 20%–30% skim milk showed better thermotolerance than that in 5% milk. • The improved thermotolerance was general for four strains with different metabolism. • After 10-min heating at 65 °C, residual viability of each strain was > 108 cfu/mL. • Cellular stress response may be activated when grown in high solids milk. • The rich protective agents and high viscosity of milk medium may protect cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) provide an efficient way to utilize energy from biomass while it offer advantages such as pollution avoidance, high energy conversion efficiency, and flexibility for a wide range of applications. MFCs have gained much attention and are considered as current research hotspot in bioenergy. To further improve the reaction area, microbial compatibility, and to increase the power generation efficiency in the design and manufacturing of a small-scale MFC, the use of 3D printing technology and the employment of a high-efficiency mixing area are proposed in this work. Carbon cloth is employed as the electrode substrate of the MFC. Moreover, the carbon nanotubes and graphene dispersions are used to modify the carbon electrode plates. The results show that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode MFC has a maximum power density of 199.24 mW m−2 at a current density of 1.52 A m−2. While the unmodified carbon cloth electrode MFC has a current density of 0.63 A m−2. This indicates that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode MFC achieved a maximum power density of about 232% compared with the unmodified carbon cloth electrode MFC. The lowest internal resistance obtained was 0.66 kΩ when the electron transfer medium was accounted. This indicated a low anode impedance which is desired in MFC systems. Result revealed that the graphene modified carbon cloth electrode is the best electrode material based on the enhanced power density and lowered internal resistance. The results of the work aims to provide insight in the improvement of the MFC electrode modification technology. • The study aims to improve the power generation efficiency of MFCs. • Carbon cloth is employed as an electrode substrate. • A designed mixer is introduced to enhance the reaction rate in the MFCs. • Results have shown a maximum power density of 0.633 A m−2. • Carbon cloth and graphene are the best choices as plate materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Non-destructive examination and 350℃ bursting pressure tests of defected tube. • Probabilistic bursting pressure model of Inconel690 tube with volume defect. • Fit for service criterion for Inconel690 tube with less conservatism. Fit for service(FFS) assessment of Steam Generator Tube(SGT) plays a key role in safety operating of Pressurized Water Reactors. Engineering practices have emerged probabilistic method is a powerful tool in reducing redundant safety margin of FFS assessment strategy. The aim of this work is to develop a probabilistic structural integrity assessment method for typical Inconel690 alloy SGT with volume defect. The study consists of four parts: Firstly, an experiment program including tensile test, eddy current examination and SGT bursting test were introduced. Then, potential bursting pressure models were analyzed based on test dataset. Proper bursting pressure model was suggested. Thirdly, probabilistic bursting pressure prediction model was developed based on Monte Carlo Simulation. At last, parametric study was performed and an application instance on anti-vibration bar fretting wear was presented. The results indicated the proposed SGT structural integrity assessment method is less conservative than current repair criterions. This study represents a further step towards developing of smart FFS assessment of Nuclear Power Plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Femtosecond laser hyperdoped silicon, known commonly as black silicon (b-Si), has attracted substantial interest from various fields due to its high absorptance and responsivity ranging from visible to near-infrared wavelengths. However, due to the non-uniformity of b-Si layer and the lattice defects present in it, the processing technique used presently introduces high noise in devices manufactured using b-Si. In this study, a lateral heterojunction is designed and manufactured at the b-Si and silicon interface to restrain the leakage current. Precisely, the lateral structure could support the b-Si photodetector in suppressing the dark current to 783 nA at a bias of -5 V, quite low in terms of orders of magnitude compared to that for the vertical ones. Simultaneously, the photo-to-dark current ratio of 155 is obtained at the same bias voltage with a pertinent external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 371%. Riding on the advantages of low noise, high signal-to-noise ratio, and high sensitivity, this work shows promising prospects for the application of b-Si-based photodetectors toward large-scale integration in optical-electronics or flip-chip interconnection systems. • The dark current of b-Si photodetector is suppressed by a lateral heterojunction. • The detector exhibits a high photo-to-dark current ratio at reverse bias voltage. • The photoconductive gain is achieved for a wide coverage of wavelength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A F 2 population was developed from the flexuosus × reticulatus cross with distinct phenotypic differences. • The ddRAD-seq protocol was used to genotype the F 2 population generating high-quality SNPs. • A high-density genetic map containing 12 linkage groups was constructed with 1090 bin markers. • Haplotype map and linkage relationship heat map verified a high-quality feature of the genetic map. Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is an economically important fruit crop with high phenotypic diversity, but the high-density genetic map suitable for QTL analysis of multiple phenotypes is unavailable to date. In this study, we adopted double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) for large-scale discovery of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and construction of a high-density genetic map in melon. A F 2 population containing 140 individuals was developed from two parental lines, H581 and H906, which respectively belonged to flexuosus and reticulatus botanical groups and showed a significant phenotypic difference. Approximately 441 Gb of data containing 3.4 × 109 paired-end reads were obtained following the ddRAD-seq. Mining this dataset, 11,073 SNPs were detected between the two parents, of which 4654 valid SNPs were finally retained in the population for genetic map construction. In total, 1090 bin markers, consisting of all the 4654 SNPs, were sorted into 12 linkage groups (LGs). The total length of the bin map was 1462.30 cM, with an average marker density of 1.39 cM and a recombination rate of 3.90 cM/Mb. Haplotype map and linkage relationship heat map revealed that most of the recombination blocks were well defined in the segregating population, confirming a high accuracy of the bin map. This map could be used for discovery of QTLs/genes related to the diverse phenotypes between the two botanical groups, further facilitating molecular breeding in melon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium is the lightest metal and is extensive in the structural application. The metal matrix composites are developed to improve the strength of magnesium alloys. In this research, AZ91 alloy reinforced with 1 wt% WS 2 was produced using stir casting process. The composite was homogenized for 24 h at 410 °C and subsequently aged for 10 h at 200 °C. The severe plastic deformation was performed using equal channel angular pressing (ECAP). The phase composition was analyzed using X-ray diffraction techniques. The microstructure, fractography, and mechanical properties of ECAPed composites have been investigated using scanning electron microscope, and universal testing machines, respectively. The results indicate that B-phases are present in the form of particles inside and at grain boundaries in annealed composites, which are refined to needle-shaped precipitates at grain boundaries, and grains size is refined to 0.2 μm after 4passes of ECAP. Microhardness and tensile yield strength are proportional to the number of passes, and 20.45% and 103.5% are increased respectively after 4pass. The UTS was found to be maximum (324.8 MPa) for 4P WS 2 /AZ91. Fractography analysis revealed that plastic fracture in annealed and elastic-plastic fracture occurred after 4P WS 2 /AZ91 MMC. • WS 2 /AZ91 (MMCs) were manufactured by stir casting method and subsequently annealed are deformed by ECAP. • ECAP effects on microstructure and mechanical behavior of WS 2 /AZ91 MMCs have been investigated. • The relation between number of passes and strength has been established. • The investigations reveal that 4pass-WS 2 /AZ91 exhibits maximum hardness and ultimate tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AZ91 reinforced with four different concentrations (0,0.3,0.6,1)wt% of WS 2 micro particles were fabricated using stir casting method. The samples were deformed by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) after homogenization. The scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to investigate the microstructure and phase composition respectively. The results reveal that rod-like precipitates produced during the homogenization process are refined and bounded in the grain boundaries by the combined effect of WS 2 enrichment and increasing number of passes of ECAP. The needle precipitates are eminent in 1pass 0.3 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. The β-Mg 17 Al 12 and extracted Al particles are dissolved and secondary phases are produced by dynamic recrystallization after 2pass 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. The maximum crystallite size and microstrain distribution have been observed for 1pass 0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. The mechanical properties investigation represents that 2pass 0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 has optimal yield strength and ultimate tensile strength. The (22.143)%, (44.735)% and (92) % increment in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and elongation have been observed in 2pass 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 compared with homogenized monolithic AZ91 alloy respectively. The maximum young's modulus (6696.218MPa) has been found for 1pass homogenized WS2/AZ91 and minimum (4108.165MPa) for homogenized 0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. The ECAP deformed 1pass 0.3 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 exhibits the maximum strain hardening rate. The YTS, UTS, and elongation are (30.41) %, (47.6) % and (51.9)% increased after 2pass-0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new efficient framework coupling the two dimensional (2D) discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) and the extended finite element method (XFEM) is developed for modeling the dynamic evolution of multiple dislocations in crystalline materials with abundant interfaces/surfaces. By a specially introduced stress calculation scheme with cut-off radius and virtual elements, the present algorithm can capture interaction between neighboring dislocations accurately although no time-consuming dislocation-core enrichment is employed. Since it is not sensitive to the FE mesh size and large XFEM time step can be used, its efficiency is evidently improved compared with other DDD frameworks. Due to the merits of XFEM itself, the present DDD-XFEM scheme can treat intractable surface/interface problems conveniently, with no additional image stress calculation as in the DDD-FEM superposition framework and special plastic-strain distribution near the surfaces/interfaces as in the discrete-continuous method (DCM) needed. For these, it can be used to model plastic behaviors of crystals with abundant interfaces/surfaces (i.e. grain/phase boundaries and crack/void surfaces). To show the ability of present DDD-XFEM scheme, it is used to simulate the mechanical responses of polycrystalline aluminum with assumed rigid and penetrable grain boundaries. A three-stage model for dislocation penetrating through grain boundary (DPTGB) is suggested. The results show that the present DDD-XFEM scheme can capture the formation of dislocation pile-ups and thus the Hall-Petch effect successfully. The DPTGB can decrease the flow stress and hardening rate evidently; moreover, it can weaken the grain size effect and may enhance the cyclic stress relaxation of polycrystals greatly. Image 1 • A more efficient and accurate XFEM-DDD framework for simulating the micro-plasticity of materials is developed. • The newly developed XFEM-DDD framework can well deal with various complex discontinuities in materials. • The present XFEM-DDD framework can simulate efficiently the problems on much longer/larger temporal/spatial scale. • A three-stage model for dislocation penetrating through GB (DPTGB) is suggested. • The grain size effect on strength and the cyclic stress relaxation are captured efficiently by the present scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, AZ91 magnesium alloy reinforced with a low fraction (0–1) wt.% tungsten disulfide(WS 2) microparticles have been fabricated using stir casting method. Effects of WS 2 microparticles on mechanical properties, microstructure, and their correlation have been analyzed. The microstructure of composites has been investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffractometer. Results indicate that density, hardness, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and tensile ductility have a direct relation with reinforcement (WS 2) contents and has optimal value for 0.6 wt% WS 2 /AZ91 composites then slightly decrease afterward. The UTS and hardness of 0.6 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 were increased by 23.23% and 10.65% respectively with respect to monolithic AZ91. The ultimate compressive strength(UCS) is directly related with WS 2 concentration and 10.07% enhancement in UCS for 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91 composites have been noted. The trend is interlinked with density and hardness of composites. SEM images depict, WS 2 micro-particles suppress β-Mg 17 Al 12 precipitates, refine the microstructure and enhance the grain size resulting in an increase in mechanical properties. The improvement in microstructure and mechanical properties is attributed to the dispersion of WS 2 particles which hinder the grain growth. The increase in porosity has causes the decrease in mechanical behavior of 1 wt%WS 2 /AZ91. Twin boundary fracture has been found major fracture phenomenon in fractured WS 2 /AZ91 surfaces. • WS 2 /AZ91 metal matrix composites have been manufacture by stir casting method. • Density and porosity of WS 2 /AZ91 composites has been assessed. • Mechanical behavior under compression and tension has been analyzed. • Effect of WS 2 on microstructure has been investigated. • Fracture behavior of composites has been studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Shuttleworth-Wallace (SW) model was parameterized and validated in a Venlo-type greenhouse. • There was a good agreement between estimated and observed evapotranspiration as well as transpiration. • Transpiration was the dominant component of evapotranspiration in a greenhouse over the full growing season. • The ratio of soil evaporation to evapotranspiration was the highest at the cucumber seedling stage. Partitioning of evapotranspiration (ET c) into soil evaporation (E g) and plants transpiration (T r) is of great importance to assess biomass production and improve water use efficiency under greenhouse conditions. The Shuttleworth-Wallace (SW) model, which is used to separately predict E g and T r has been validated by many studies in open field, however, the model's parameters for the low wind speed and heterogeneous underlying surface in greenhouses are quite different from the open field. Therefore, an experiment was conducted in a Venlo-type greenhouse in south-east China during two planting seasons of cucumber plants in 2018, where the ET c and T r were directly measured by lysimeters and sap flow sensors. The soil surface and canopy resistances were parameterized based on the soil water content at 5–10 cm depth and solar radiation inside the greenhouse, respectively. The SW model simulated ET c and T r at hourly interval with root mean square error (RMSE) and index of agreement (d) of 42.10 W m−2 and 0.93; 40.50 W m−2 and 0.91 for the spring season, while for the autumn season the values were 26.60 W m−2 and 0.93; 15.63 W m−2 and 0.93, respectively. The average E g / ET c were 7.75% and 21.87% for spring and autumn planting seasons, respectively, indicating that the T r was the dominant component of ET c of cucumber grown in greenhouse over the full crop season. Our research shows the parameterized SW model would be a relatively accurate way to separately simulate the dynamic variations of the T r and E g , and for future use to improve irrigation scheduling for cucumber plants under greenhouse conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prediction of structure's ultimate load has a lot of practical applications in composite structure. In the present work, limit and shakedown load of structure made from arbitrary inhomogeneous material was predicted by a novel solution algorithm named Back Stress Iteration Method, where material's kinematic hardening behavior is involved as well. Firstly, details about the proposed algorithm were introduced. Basis reduction method was employed as framework and its advantage in computational efficiency is inherited. Secondly, the influence of inhomogeneous kinematic hardening was solved by a new invented Back Stress Iteration process. Then, three examples with increasing complexity were investigated numerically for validation purpose. The results were discussed intensively with respect to the accuracy, the effect of inhomogeneity and the inhomogeneous kinematic hardening behavior to verify the rationality of the proposed method. At last, the paper was summarized and conclusions were drawn. The proposed method is promising to provide a powerful tool for the accurate prediction of arbitrary inhomogeneous structure's load-bearing capacity, such is applicable to many kinds of composite structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tribological behavior of AZ31 Mg alloy reinforced with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was studied through experiments on a ring-on-block wear testing apparatus against 45C steel. The composites were successfully fabricated using stir-casting processing with different percentages of MWCNTs and then age hardened for 10 h. The effect of the various concentrations of MWCNTs on the microstructures, tribological properties, and wear mechanisms of the composites were systematically examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). With increasing percentage content of MWCNTs, the wear rate and the coefficient of friction decreased, which is attributed to the microhardness and self-lubricating properties of the MWCNTs. The microstructure characterization results established different mechanisms—specifically, abrasion, oxidation, and delamination—and very small plastic deformation. • Magnesium alloy AZ31 reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes was fabricated using stir casting method. • Samples were homogenized for 24 h at 400C0 and then aged for 10 h at 200C0 temperature. • Wear tests for as-cast and aged composites were performed using Ring on Block wear apparatus under dry and wet conditions and mass wear loss and coefficient of friction was determined. • Worn surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscope for wear mechanism analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airway complications (AC) are one of leading causes of morbidity and mortality after lung transplant (LTx), but their predictors and outcomes remain controversial. This study aimed to identify potential risk factors and prognosis of AC. A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. All observational studies reporting outcome and potential factors of AC after LTx were included. The incidence, mortality, and estimated effect of each factor for AC were pooled by using the fixed-effects model or random-effects model. Thirty-eight eligible studies with 52,116 patients undergoing LTx were included for meta-analysis. The pooled incidence of AC was 12.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.5-15.8) and the mean time of occurrence was 95.6 days. AC-related mortality rates at 30-days, 90-days, 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years were 6.7%, 17.9%, 18.2%, 23.6%, and 66.0%, respectively. Airway dehiscence was the most severe type with a high mortality at 30 days (60.9%, 95% CI 20.6-95.2). We found that AC was associated with a higher risk of mortality in LTx recipients (hazard ratio [HR] 1.71, 95% CI 1.04-2.81). Eleven significant predictors for AC were also identified, including male donor, male recipient, diagnosis of COPD, hospitalization, early rejection, postoperative infection, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, telescopic anastomosis, and bilateral and right-sided LTx. AC was significantly associated with higher mortality after LTx, especially for dehiscence. Targeted prophylaxis for modifiable factors and enhanced early bronchoscopy surveillance after LTx may improve the disease burden of AC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-strength Mg-8.8Gd-3.8Y-1.0Zn-0.7Mn (wt%) alloy hollow profile with complex cross-section was successfully fabricated through porthole die extrusion, and its weld seam was analyzed for microstructure and element distribution to investigate the impact of solid-state bonding. The weld seam displayed a homogeneous magnesium grain structure and a precipitation-free zone. The diffusion behavior of alloying elements during solid-state bonding significantly affected the microstructure of the weld seam, with Gd and Y atoms diffusing towards the outside of the weld region. The hollow profile exhibited favorable mechanical properties, with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 470 MPa, a tensile yield strength (TYS) of 309 MPa, and an elongation (EL) of 7.4%, and showed a minor negative effect from the weld seam. • High-strength Mg-Gd-Y-Zn-Mn alloy hollow profiles showed a favorable metallurgical bond in the weld seam with a homogeneous magnesium grain structure and no microvoids. • Alloying element diffusion influenced the weld seam microstructure, resulting in lower concentrations of Gd and Y in the weld region, while Zn and Mn showed a more uniform distribution. • The presence of the weld seam had minimal impact on the overall mechanical properties of the hollow profiles, which retained superior mechanical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-performance as-extruded and peak-aged Mg-9.2Gd-3.3Y-1.2Zn-0.9Mn (wt%) alloys have been fabricated by semi-continuous casting, heat-treating, extruding and ageing processes. The effects of different heat treatments on the microstructure and mechanical properties have been investigated. Lamellar and bulk-shaped 14H-type long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) phase and few RE-rich (RE: rare earth element) particles form by different heat treatments. After hot extrusion, the heat-treated alloy with bulk-shaped LPSO phase exhibits an equal-axial microstructure, while the heat-treated alloy with lamellar LPSO phase across the grains shows bimodal grain microstructure consisting of fine equal-axial grains and coarse deformed grains. The more profuse lamellar LPSO phase in heat-treated alloy generates higher volume fraction of deformed grains and finer equal-axial grains, hence leads to higher strength but lower ductility. After ageing, the alloy with profuse LPSO and β′ phases achieves the superior mechanical properties with ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 525 MPa, tensile yield strength (TYS) of 420 MPa and elongation to failure (EL) of 6.3%. The alloy strengthening is mainly attributed to the bimodal grain microstructure, LPSO phase, Mg 5 Gd (β) phase and β′ phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory viral infections cause mild to severe diseases, such as common cold, bronchiolitis and pneumonia and are associated with substantial burden for society. To test new molecules for shortening, alleviating the diseases or to develop new therapies, relevant human in vitro models are mandatory. MucilAir™, a human standardized air-liquid interface 3D airway epithelial culture holds in vitro specific mechanisms to counter invaders comparable to the in vivo situation, such as mucus production, mucociliary clearance, and secretion of defensive molecules. The objective of this study was to test the relevance of such a model for the discovery and validation of antiviral drugs. Fully differentiated 3D nasal epithelium cultures were inoculated with picornaviruses, a coronavirus and influenza A viruses in the absence or in the presence of reference antiviral drugs. Results showed that, rupintrivir efficiently inhibits the replication of respiratory picornaviruses in a dose dependent manner and prevents the impairment of the mucociliary clearance. Similarly, oseltamivir reduced the replication of influenza A viruses in a dose dependent manner and prevented the impairment of the epithelial barrier function and cytotoxicity until 4 days of infection. In addition we found that Rhinovirus B14, C15 and influenza A(H1N1) induce significant increase of β Defensins 2 and Cathelicidin release with different time course. These results reveal that a large panel of epithelial functions is modified upon viral infection and validate MucilAir™ as a pertinent tool for pre-clinical antiviral drug testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although plasmon-enhanced fluorescence (PEF) technology has been demonstrated its potential in protein detection for disease early diagnosis, its detection sensitivity still has a big gap compared to that of methods featured with single-molecule detection ability. Herein, inspired by the properties of catalyst-free bioorthogonal chemistry between 1,2,4,5-tetrazine (Tz) and trans- cyclooctene (TCO) being capable of improving the nanoparticle binding efficiency, we initially incorporate semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) into PEF-based suspension microarray platform as the signal reporter and evaluate its performance for biomarker prostate-specific antigen (PSA) detection by comparing with traditional fluorescence protein-based methods. In our assay, Tz-tagged QDs could be readily absorbed onto the sandwich immunocomplex composed of capture antibody, target PSA and TCO-labelled detection antibody for signal output. To improve the QDs binding efficiency, detection performance obtained from QDs-conjugated detection antibody as the reporter prepared by the same bioorthogonal chemistry reaction was also evaluated. For the evaluation of its potential in practical application, the performance including detection sensitivity and dynamic range of the proposed method for PSA assay in clinical sera samples using commercially-available PEF-based planar microarray as the control was discussed, which revealed that the nanoparticle-binding efficiency base on traditional SA/avidin method could be dramatically improved by the proposed method. • QDs-based fluorescence label was incorporated into PEF-based technology. • Improved QDs binding efficiency was achieved by bioorthogonal chemistry. • PSA detection was achieved with high detection sensitivity below 1 fM. • Comparable performance with commercial PEF-based technology was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpene synthase (TPS) plays an important role in terpenoids biosynthesis. Cinnamomum camphora (camphor tree) contains dozens of terpenoids with medicinal value, especially borneol, which has been widely used since ancient times. However, limited information is available regarding the genome-wide identification and characterization of the TPS family in the C. camphora. In this study, 82 CcTPS genes were identified from the camphor tree genome (CTG). Gene cluster and sequence syntenic analysis suggested that tandem duplication occurred within the TPS family of the CTG, especially for the TPS-b subfamily. The chemotype-specific gene expression analysis showed significantly differential expression patterns among six chemotypes. It is worth noting that three genes (CcTPS26, CcTPS49 and CcTPS72) exhibited relatively high expression in the borneol-type camphor tree, compared to the other five chemotypes. Further functional characterization of them indicated that they were all bornyl diphosphate synthases (BPPSs), which function in catalyzing GPP into BPP and then undergoes dephosphorylation to yield borneol. This is the first report that multiple BPPSs exist within a single species. Intriguingly, CcTPS49 and CcTPS72 lead to the generation of dextral-borneol, while CcTPS26 contributes to the biosynthesis of levo-borneol. In addition, the functional characterization of another six CcTPSs suggested that they are responsible for the biosynthesis of linalool, eucalyptol and several other monoterpenes in camphor tree. In conclusion, these novel results provide a foundation for further exploration of the role of the CcTPS gene family and shed light on a better understanding of the biosynthesis and accumulation of monoterpenes in camphor tree. • This is the first comprehensive study and systematic genome-wide analysis of TPS gene families in C. camphora. • This is the first report that multiple bornyl diphosphate synthase (BPPSs) found in a single species. • This is the first report that both L- and D-BPPS coexist within a single species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an investigation on the relationship between the process parameters and geometrical characteristics of the sectional profile for the single track cladding (STC) deposited by High Power Diode Laser (HPDL) with rectangle beam spot (RBS). To obtain the geometry parameters, namely cladding width W c and height H c of the sectional profile, a full factorial design (FFD) of experiment was used to conduct the experiments with a total of 27. The pre-placed powder technique has been employed during laser cladding. The influence of the process parameters including laser power, powder thickness and scanning speed on the W c and H c was analyzed in detail. A nonlinear fitting model was used to fit the relationship between the process parameters and geometry parameters. And a circular arc was adopted to describe the geometry profile of the cross-section of STC. The above models were confirmed by all the experiments. The results indicated that the geometrical characteristics of the sectional profile of STC can be described as the circular arc, and the other geometry parameters of the sectional profile can be calculated only using W c and H c . Meanwhile, the W c and H c can be predicted through the process parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both resveratrol(Res) and diphenyleneiodonium(DPI) have been shown to have radioprotective effects on hematopoietic system injury. However, the cooperative effect of Res and DPI are unknown. In this study, we explored the radioprotective effect of the combination of Res and DPI both in vitro and in vivo. Our results showed that the combined treatment of Res and DPI was more effective in protecting irradiated BMMNCs in terms of cell viability, colony-forming ability, and reconstitution ability in vitro compared with Res or DPI treatment alone. However, in mice, the combination of Res and DPI had no enhanced protection on 4 Gy total body irradiation (TBI)-induced hematopoietic system injury, including TBI-induced myelosuppression, induction of the splenic index, and increases in HSC/HPC numbers and the colony-forming ability of BMCs,compared to Res or DPI alone. An exception was the number of BMCs. These studies illustrated the inconsistency between experiments carried out in vitro and in vivo and suggest an interaction between Res or DPI in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed to investigate the structural-borne acoustics analysis and multi-objective optimization of an enclosed box structure by using the panel acoustic participation (PAP) and response surface methodology (RSM). The acoustic frequency response function is applied to achieve the critical frequency of interest under each excitation. The PAP analysis is then carried out at all critical frequencies and the remarkable acoustic panels are identified. The correlation coefficient matrix method is proposed for reselecting and grouping the positions of acoustic panels identified to paste damping layer to control noise. With the help of faced central composite design, an efficient set of sample points are generated and then the second-order polynomial functions of sound pressure response at each critical frequency are computed and verified by the adjusted coefficient of multiple determination. The functional relationships between sound pressure responses and the thicknesses of damping layers are investigated, and multi-objective optimization of the thicknesses of damping layers is developed. The results indicate that, by using the PAP and RSM, the structural-borne acoustics at critical frequencies are calculated conveniently and controlled effectively. The optimization process of the explicit optimization model proposed in this paper is simple and the computational time is saved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protective carriers that encapsulate probiotics in spray drying could improve the survival ratio of dried cells through different mechanisms. Unveiling the protective mechanism of each carrier will contribute to a rational design of high performance carrier formulation. This study utilized single droplet drying (SDD) technique to investigate the effects of calcium cation in varied carrier formulation. Inactivation histories of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in different carriers were compared, and cellular injury history of probiotics during droplet drying was studied for the first time. Adding 1 mM CaCl 2 to lactose carrier protected cell viability, mitigated cellular injuries, and enhanced regrowth capability as drying progressed, demonstrating the positive effect of Ca 2 + with possible mechanism of stabilizing sub-cellular structures. At later drying stages, cell survival in Lac/Ca carrier was increased by 0.5–1.5 log on selective media compared to lactose carrier. Supplementing calcium-binding agents lowered the protective effect, shortening the initiation of rapid cell inactivation down to 120 s of drying. Adding CaCl 2 to trehalose carrier barely improved cell survival, indicating that the protective effect could be influenced by carrier formulation. Pure trehalose carrier exerted excellent protection on LGG, supporting cells to regrow in liquid rich medium even after 180 s of drying. The protection of trehalose may stem from stabilization of sub-cellular structures, which possibly overlap the effect of Ca 2 + . The findings suggested that high performance carrier formulation might be developed by combining carrier materials with different protective mechanisms, for maximizing the survival of active dry probiotics in industrial spray drying operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]