Search

Ceramic cores are essential intermediate mediums in casting superalloy hollow turbine blades. The developing of additive manufacturing (AM) technology provides a new approach for the preparation of ceramic cores with complex structure. In this study, alumina oxide (Al 2 O 3) ceramic cores with fine complex geometric shapes were fabricated by digital light processing (DLP) in high resolution. The maximum solid content of 70 vol% of ceramic slurry was adopted in the printing process, which is important for the regulation of deformations and mechanical properties. The effects of the printing parameters, including exposure intensity, printing layer thickness and sintering temperature on the microstructures and mechanical properties of printed samples were investigated. The decrease of residual stress and similar shrinkage in X, Y, and Z directions could be obtained by adjusting the printing parameters, which are crucial to prepare complex ceramic cores with high quality. Besides, the flexure strength and open porosity of ceramic cores reached 34.84 MPa and 26.94%, respectively, which were supposed to meet the requirement of ceramic cores for the fabrication of superalloy blades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined the possibility of using industrial microwave processing to enhance the gelling properties and reduce the starch digestibility of mung bean flour (MBF). MBF (12.6 % moisture) was microwaved at a power of 6 W/g to different final temperatures (100–130 °C), and then its structural and functional properties were characterized. The microwave treatment had little impact on the crystalline structure or amylose content of the starch, but it roughened the starch granule surfaces and decreased the short-range ordered structure and degree of branching. In addition, the extent of mung bean protein denaturation caused by the microwave treatment depended on the final temperature. Slightly denaturing the proteins (100 °C) did not affect the nature of the gels (protein phase dispersed in a starch phase) but the gel network became more compact. Moderately denaturing the proteins (110–120 °C) led to more compact and homogeneous starch-protein double network gels. Excessive protein denaturation (130 °C) caused the gel structure to become more heterogeneous. As a result, the facilitated tangles between starch chains by more linear starch molecules after debranching, and the protein network produced by moderate protein denaturation led to the formation of stronger gel and the improvement of plasticity during large deformation (large amplitude oscillatory shear-LAOS). Starch recrystallization, lipid complexion, and protein network retard starch digestion in the MBF gels. In conclusion, an industrial microwave treatment improved the gelling and digestive properties of MBF, and Lissajous curve has good adaptability in characterizing the viscoelasticity of gels under large deformations. [Display omitted] • Microwave treatment facilitated starch debranching and protein denaturation. • Starch debranching improved the tangle and plasticity during LAOS. • Moderate protein denaturation led to uniform starch-protein double network gels. • The denser double gel network is beneficial for retard starch digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Moisture content is vital for starch-lipid/protein interaction during heating. • Two gel textures appeared at different moisture levels: soft solids and pasty fluids. • Starch-lipid/protein interactions decreased starch digestion rate. Effects of heat treatment (100 °C) at different moisture content (13–70 %) on the structural, gelation and digestive properties of starch in real mung bean flour (MBF) systems are investigated. The results showed that the structural destruction of the starch, the starch-lipid complexion and starch-protein interaction were promoted with increasing moisture content. The starch-protein interaction was mainly driven by hydrophobic interaction forces, leading the increase of total phase transition enthalpy. Even though starch retained ordered structure after heating at 50 %–70 % moisture, the typical pasting curve almost disappeared. The less leached amylose to construct the continuous phase, and more flexible amylopectin swollen granules dispersed in the matrix may weakened the viscoelasticity of the gels. As a result, two distinct gel textures were presented: soft solids with good water-binding capacity (below 30 %) and pasty fluids (above 40 %). Starch-lipid/protein interactions were demonstrated to retard the digestion rate of starch during MBS gelatinization according to the two-stage first-order kinetic and LOS (logarithm of the slope) models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Discovery of increased Trim27 expression in asthma. • The deletion of Trim27 effectively relieved ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung tissue histopathological changes. • Verification of Trim27's impact on asthma symptoms and Revealing Trim27's role in promoting NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory disease, yet understanding its ecology and pathogenesis remains a challenge. Trim27, a ubiquitination ligase belonging to the TRIM (tripartite motif-containing) family, has been implicated in regulating multiple pathophysiological processes such as inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. However, the role of Trim27 in asthma has not been investigated. Our study found that Trim27 expression significantly increases in the airway epithelium of asthmatic mice. Knockdown of Trim27 expression effectively relieved ovalbumin (OVA)-induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung tissue histopathological changes. Moreover, Trim27 knockdown exhibited a significant reduction in airway inflammation and oxidative stress in asthmatic mice, and in vitro analysis confirmed the favorable effect of Trim27 deletion on inflammation and oxidative stress in mouse airway epithelial cells. Furthermore, our study revealed that deletion of Trim27 in MLE12 cells significantly decreased NLRP3 inflammasome activation, as evidenced by reduced expression of NLRP3, ASC, and pro-IL-1β mRNA. This downregulation was reversed when Trim27, but not its mutant lacking ubiquitination ligase activity, was replenished in these cells. Consistent with these findings, protein levels of NLRP3, pro-caspase-1, pro-IL-1β, cleaved-caspase-1, and cleaved-IL-1β were higher in Trim27-replenished cells compared to cells expressing Trim27C/A. Functionally, the downregulation of IL-1β and IL-18 levels induced by Trim27 deletion was rescued by replenishing Trim27. Overall, our findings provide evidence that Trim27 contributes to airway inflammation and oxidative stress in asthmatic mice via NLRP3 inflammasome activation, providing crucial insights into potential therapeutic interventions targeting Trim27 as a way to treat asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, we presented a green and efficient separation method for soluble undenatured type II collagen (SC II) based on the complex coacervation of SC II and anionic polysaccharides, and demonstrated the significant impact of molecular weight (M w). In this study, we combined differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), microscale thermophoresis (MST) and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) to further explore the affinity and interaction types of SC II with different anionic polysaccharides. Results showed that the denaturation temperature of SC II increased (about 3 °C) after complex coacervating with chondroitin sulfate (CS, a small anionic polysaccharide), which might be related to their strong affinity (dissociation constant of K d and binding energy were about 3.04 × 10−6 mg/mL and −4054.97 kJ/mol, respectively), and the molecular weight of anionic polysaccharides had a greater impact than chain conformation. The non-covalent interactions between SC II and anionic polysaccharides were mainly hydrogen bonds, followed by hydrophobic interactions and ionic bonds. The hydroxyl and sulfate groups in polysaccharides could form extensive hydrogen bonds and small amount of ionic bonds with a large number of amino acids in SC II, and the hydrophobic groups such as methyl also formed hydrophobic interactions with hydrophobic parts in SC II (such as Pro82, Pro85, Val88). Importantly, the smaller the M w of anionic polysaccharides, the faster they formed stable interactions with SC II. Therefore, anionic polysaccharides with smaller M w had higher affinity and faster non-covalent interactions formation speed with SC II, resulting in more compact structure and higher thermal stability of the complexes. [Display omitted] • Anionic polysaccharides with smaller M w had stronger affinity with SC Ⅱ. • Thermal stability of SC II increased after combining with chondroitin sulfate and pectin. • Hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions were the main non-covalent interactions. • Small M w of anionic polysaccharides was beneficial to the interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various problems are often encountered during the backfilling process of deep foundation pits. The development of low-cost and efficient solidified materials for the preparation of fluidized solidified soil is currently an ideal solution. This article used industrial solid waste (granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, carbide slag, etc.) as the main raw material to study the hydration hardening properties of solidified materials and the construction feasibility of fluidized solidified soil prepared from solid waste materials. The results are as follows: Compared with cement-based materials, solid waste-based solidified materials had lower early activity. The cumulative heat release within 72 h was less than 200 J/g. Different solid wastes, such as fly ash and carbide slag, had different effects on the properties of solidified materials. Overall, they had the potential to prepare fluidized solidified soil. The prepared fluidized solidified soil had a fluidity greater than 350 mm, a 28d compressive strength greater than 3 MPa, and exhibited good workability and excellent mechanical properties. Hydration products such as C-S-H and AFt were filled in the soil structure. The 28d compressive strength well above the design requirements of general engineering projects. Meanwhile, the prepared fluidized solidified soil had good adaptability to conventional water reducers (fluidity could be increased by more than 40%) and early strength agents (1d compressive strength could be increased by more than 60%). • Use fluidized solidified soil to solve the problem of backfilling deep foundation pits. • Utilize the synergy between industrial solid waste to improve the solidification effect. • Establish the connection between solidified materials and fluidized solidified soil. • The adaptability of fluidized solidified soil to admixtures was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quorum sensing (QS) exists in bacteria to communicate with each other and regulate group behaviors in a cell density-dependent manner, which uses signal molecule autoinducer-2 (AI-2) to intra- and inter-species communication. Effects of exogenous AI-2 on biofilm formation and environmental tolerance in Lactobacillus plantarum are the focus of this review. The responses to the exogenous AI-2 cross multiple physiological metabolic behaviors involving the bacteria growth, morphological characterization, biofilm development, extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) amount and related genes expression as well as the environmental stresses tolerance. The cell surface was smoother in the AI-2 supplemented treatments than without AI-2. Meanwhile, AI-2 had ability to promote the growth and formation of biofilm by increasing the yield of EPS, the main components of biofilm. The changes in lamC and ftsH gene expression point to altered regulation for hydrolysis process of polysaccharides as well as the potential for enhanced biofilm formation. The presence of AI-2 also significantly improved (p < 0.01) the tolerance of bile salts in L. plantarum , but the same results did not appear in acid tolerance. In conclusion, AI-2 supplementation could improve the biofilm formation and bile salts tolerance in L. plantarum , and this effect was likely modulated by facilitating EPS production and suppression polysaccharides hydrolysis. • The addition of AI-2 made the cell surface of L. plantarum smoother. • Exogenous AI-2 had positive impact on L. plantarum growth and biofilm formation. • Be promoted biofilm caused by more EPS secretion and reduced polysaccharide hydrolysis. • The ability of the strain to resist bile salts has increased under the action of AI-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a part of by-product generated during the incineration, the municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MFA) is a secondary pollutant. The ordinary Portland cement (OPC)-based stabilization/solidification (S/S) is a prevalent and robust technique for the treatment of MFA, which can not only effectively dispose the MFA, but also decrease the demand of OPC and reduce the greenhouse gas emissions. However, when MFA was directly utilized to partly replace the cement with a replacement ratio of 15%, the MFA-OPC based composites exhibited inferior mechanical properties. The nano silica (NS) was considered to be introduced to compensate for the strength loss caused by the MFA. In this research, the NS with varying dosages and particle sizes were integrated into the MFA-OPC composites and in total seven groups of the composites were prepared. The mechanical properties of the composites were examined and the results indicated that the composites containing 2 wt% 100 nm NS presented relatively superior mechanical properties. The incorporation of NS could increase the compressive strength of MFA-OPC composites by 37.5% at later age. Then, thermodynamic modelling and the micro-structural analysis including hydration heat, XRD, TG, MIP and SEM were coupling applied to probe into the NS modification mechanism. Experimental results indicated that the addition of NS enhanced the strength of OPC containing MFA at both early and later ages via pozzolanic reaction, hydration acceleration and micro filling effects. Overall considering the macro performance improvement and microstructure modification effect, the 2 wt% NS with particle size of 100 nm was recommended to be utilized. Therefore, this study expands the emerging application of NS and demonstrates that NS-augmented binders can ensure low-carbon and high-performance S/S of hazardous materials. • The nanoSiO 2 with varying particle sizes and dosages were utilized to compensate for the performance loss caused by the MFA. • The experimental analysis and thermodynamic modeling were coupling used to investigate the effect of nanoSiO 2 on the composites. • The optimal nanoSiO 2 particle size (100 nm) and dosage (2%) was recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A new nano-modified superstable foam was designed to improve the mechanical properties and pore structure of carbon fixation foam concrete. • High performance additive technology and early carbonation curing were used to improve the mechanical properties of eco-porous carbon fixation concrete. • The influence mechanism of polyvinyl alcohol on carbonation behavior of carbon fixation foamed concrete and its performance improvement mechanism were found and clarified. The introduction of carbon fixation components (calcium hydroxide) can improve the carbon fixation performance of foam concrete, however, it will reduce its mechanical properties. In order to solve the adverse effects of carbon fixation components on the mechanical properties and optimize carbon absorption properties, a specific amount of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is incorporated. In this study, a serial of test was employed to study the production process of nano-modified foam, and some basic properties of the foam concrete of interest. Further, the micromorphology and pore structure of the samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscope and mercury injection test. The evolution of mineral phases was examined by X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The results show that the carbon sequestration efficiency of foam concrete increases significantly as the amount of calcium hydroxide is increased, however, the cementitious properties of materials deteriorate, resulting in a decrease in strength. When PVA is added as a water-soluble admixture, it can enhance the mechanical properties of test blocks. It can also strengthen the bubble film of nano stabilized foam, increase bubble stability, and refine the internal pore structure of carbon fixation foam concrete. In addition, PVA can modify the calcium hydroxide morphology from a laminar structure to a smaller volume edge corrosion structure, which improves the reaction activity of calcium hydroxide with CO 2 and boosts the efficiency of carbon sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Composition-tunable bimetallic Fe/Mg-MIL-88B(n) nanospindles was synthesized. • Arsenate uptake capacity up to 303.6 mg/g is achieved in the optimized Fe/Mg-MIL-88B(0.5). • Regenerative ability and stability of Fe/Mg-MIL-88B absorbents were evaluated. • Sorption mechanism of arsenate on the Fe/Mg-MIL-88B(0.5) was studied. Abstract The rational design of metal–organic frameworks with tailored components and structural features is crucial for achieving the desired functions and expanding the emerging applications. Herein, water-stable bimetallic Fe/Mg metal–organic frameworks (Fe/Mg-MIL-88B) have been successfully fabricated through a facile and effective one-step strategy to access the exceptional arsenic decontamination. Notably, the obtained bimetallic Fe/Mg-MIL-88B architectures are demonstrated to possess a well-defined spindle-like morphology. Interestingly, the Fe/Mg molar ratios within the resultant Fe/Mg-MIL-88B frameworks can be flexibly modulated on demand, leading to the variation of the structural features associated with length/diameter ratio and unit cell parameters along with surface areas. Thanks to the unique structural and compositional merits as well as the synergetic contribution from two active metal centres, the fabricated Fe/Mg-MIL-88B nanospindles exhibit enhanced decontaminant performance toward arsenate in terms of ultrafast sorption kinetics and high sorption capacities, compared to the monometallic Fe-MIL-88B. Impressively, an extraordinary arsenate uptake capacity up to 303.6 mg/g is achieved in the optimized Fe/Mg-MIL-88B with Fe/Mg feeding ratio of 0.5, which is substantially superior to most of the reported arsenic absorbents. More significantly, these Fe/Mg-MIL-88B absorbents possess exceptional regenerative ability and stability during multiple sorption/desorption cycles, as reflected by the negligible drop in arsenic removal efficiency and excellent maintenance of the crystalline structure and morphology integrity. All these satisfactory results prefigure that the designed bimetallic Fe/Mg-MIL-88B absorbents hold a great promise for the in-depth purification of arsenic-contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In an effort to provide early warnings for the occurrence of eutrophication, it is highly desirable to develop an accurate and efficient technique to ensure continuous monitoring of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) in the aquatic environment from the viewpoint of environmental management. Herein, a new diffusive gradient in thin film (DGT) technique was developed and evaluated for in situ measurement of DRP in waters, in which Zr-based metal organic frameworks (MOFs, UiO-66) were utilized as aqueous binding agent (abbreviated as UiO-66 DGT). As expected, the UiO-66 DGT demonstrated high uptake capacity towards phosphorus (20.8 μg P cm−2). Meanwhile, an excellent linearity between the accumulated DRP mass and deployment time over 5 d (R2 = 0.996) was obtained regardless of high or low phosphate solution. In addition, effective diffusion coefficients (D) of DRP increased exponentially with increasing ionic strengths (R2 = 0.99). Based on the rectified D, the performance of the UiO-66 DGT was independent of solution pH (6.5–8.5) and ionic strengths (ranging from 0.01 to 100 mmol L−1). Furthermore, field deployments of the UiO-66 DGT were undertaken in a natural eutrophic lake (Lake Chaohu, China). It was noteworthy that DRP could be continually accumulated by the UiO-66 DGT for more than 14 d and good agreements were obtained between the concentrations measured by DGT (C DGT) and those by ex situ chemical extraction method in solution (C sol), as reflected by C DGT /C sol of 0.9–1.1. In situ determination of DRP speciation was also carried out at different sites across Lake Chaohu. Overall, this study contributed to a better constructing of liquid binding phase DGT for the measurement of DRP in waters, facilitating the widespread application of the UiO-66 DGT as a routine monitoring technique and for large-scale environmental analysis. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A new DGT device was developed for measuring DRP in waters. • A hydrostable Zr-based MOFs (UiO-66) was used as liquid binding agent of DGT device. • The UiO-66 DGT was suitable for a wide range of pH and ionic strengths. • During field deployments C DGT values matched excellently with the average grab sample values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Daphnetin, one of the major bioactive components isolated from Daphne odora , has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. Inflammation and oxidative stress have been known to play critical roles in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effects of daphnetin on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. The levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, as well as the kidney reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) activity were measured in this study. The expression of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β were measured by ELISA. The results showed that daphnetin protected against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by attenuating kidney histological changes, serum BUN and creatinine. Furthermore, the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β, as well as ROS and MDA in kidney tissues were decreased by daphnetin. In addition, daphnetin dose-dependently inhibited cisplatin-induced NF-κB activation and up-regulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. In conclusion, the results of this study suggested that daphnetin inhibited cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by inhibiting NF-κB and activating Nrf2 signaling pathways. Daphnetin might be a promising agent in the treatment of kidney injury. Highlights • Daphnetin protected against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by attenuating kidney histological changes, serum BUN and creatinine. • The production of TNF-α, IL-1ß, ROS, and MDA were inhibited by daphnetin. • Daphnetin inhibited cisplatin-induced NF-κB activation and up-regulated Nrf2 and HO-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The PyC/Al 2 O 3 ceramics with micro-channels were prepared by the 3D printing, which realized the tailored microwave absorption properties via designing meta-structures with diverse micro-channels to tailor the permittivity of the ceramic. The permittivity of the ceramics can be effectively controlled by micro-channels with different orientations and sizes, which could be particular for designing multi-layer impedance matching meta-structures with different dielectric properties. The absorption bandwidth of PyC/Al 2 O 3 ceramics is effectively expanded, which realized great than 90 % EM wave absorption in the frequency range of 6–18 GHz, indicating an efficient absorption band of 12 GHz. Therefore, this study put forward a new strategy to tailor the permittivity of 3D printed ceramics by introducing micro-channels with sizes of sub-wavelength, which could enlarge the design freedoms for 3D printed microwave absorbing ceramics. • An 3D printed PyC/Al 2 O 3 ceramic metamaterials is proposed. • The permittivity of PyC/Al 2 O 3 can be effectively tailored by the micro-channels. • The proposed meta-structure can achieve strong absorption at thinner thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MXene@hemin boosted interactions with nano-gold via charge transfer. • MXene@hemin-Au with excellent catalytic activity was applied in sensor first. • This sensor showed broad linear range and low detection of limit. • This sensor showed superior diagnostic efficiency for TB to commercial ones. Despite multiple advances in tuberculosis (TB), there is still a lack of effective methods available for its diagnosis. To this end, we developed a novel nanozyme-mediated electrochemical aptasensor for TB diagnosis. We showed that hemin decorated with multi-layered MXene enhanced the metal-support interaction with nano-gold via charge transfer, resulting in excellent peroxidase-like activity aside from the highly conductive feature. The K m value of hemin functionalized MXene decorated with nano-gold (MXene@hemin-Au) was 0.37 mM and 0.23 mM for H 2 O 2 and TMB, respectively, which was smaller to that of MXene@hemin (4.01 mM and 0.39 mM) or horseradish peroxidase (3.7 mM and 0.434 mM), indicating its high affinity to both substrates, showing improved stability in harsh conditions and excellent biocompatibility. Given these advantages, an ultrasensitive detection method was established based on a typical sandwich format using a combination of specific Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) ESAT-6 antigen aptamers with MXene@hemin-Au as probes for signal amplification and gold nanoparticles supported nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube (N-CNTs-Au) as a sensing platform. It exhibited a wide detection linear for ESAT-6 antigen from 100 fg mL−1 to 50 ng mL−1, with limit of detection and limit of quantification of 2.36 fg mL−1 and 7.87 fg mL−1, respectively. For its diagnostic application, of note, the proposed method outperformed diagnostic performance for TB in contract to a commercial ELISA method in terms of specificity (100% vs. 20.59%) and area under curve (0.987 vs. 0.596), verifying its great potential in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of nanoparticles and biomarkers yields functional nanostructured biointerface, which is playing a notable role in biotechnology development. Due to the 5-fold twined structure in the Au-Pt star-shaped decahedra not only allowed it to act as efficient scaffold for immobilization of antibody, but it also exhibits superior electrocatalytic activity toward H 2 O 2 reduction, the nanocrystal as the efficient signal transduction label is first employed to construct an electrochemical immunosensor. Donor–π–Acceptor (D–π–A) linking fashion generates a dipolar push-pull system and assures superior intramolecular charge transfer. It is considered as a suitable π-conjugated backbone for conducting polymer on biointerface application. Under a D–π–A architecture which imidazole as the π-bridge and amino phenyl/phenyl groups as peripheral electron-donating/withdrawing functional groups, 4-(2,4,5-triphenyl-1H-imidazol-1-yl) aniline (TPIDA) is designed and synthesized for good biocompatibility and high conductivity. In this proposal, we attempt to integrate the above-mentioned two features from nanobiotechnology and organic bioelectronics. Then, a novel nonenzymatic sandwich-type immunosensor is performed by Au-Pt core-shell with surface-engineered twinning as a label and π-conjugated D–π–A polymers as the signal amplification platform. Human IgG (HIgG) as the model target protein can be detected with a wide linear range from 0.1 pg mL −1 to 100 ng mL −1 . The detection limit is down to 0.06 pg mL −1 (S/N = 3). Moreover, as a practical application, the prepared biosensor is used to monitor HIgG level in human serum with desirable results obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A commercial interest in the improvement of durability is driving efforts to develop new generation of surface-treatment agents. In the previous paper, a series of nanoSiO 2 -polycarboxylate superplasticizer core-shell nanoparticles (NS@PCE) were synthesized by “grafting to” method. In this paper, we aim to explore the potential of NS@PCE to densify the surface of cementitious materials, and to study the mechanism of nanoparticles surface-treatment process by measuring water absorption ratio, dispersion stability, pozzolanic reactivity, and mercury intrusion porosimetry. Results show that NS@PCE is effective in reducing the water absorption. Various NS@PCE present different influences, it seems that NS@PCE with a moderate shell-core ratio is a more reasonable choice. A hypothesis was proposed to explain the surface-treatment effect of nanoparticles, it utilizes two properties (dispersity and pozzolanic reactivity) of nanoparticles to describe their refining-pore performance. This research indicates a new pathway for nanoSiO 2 to optimizing cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi 2 S 3 nanorods anchored over reduced graphene oxide (rGO/Bi 2 S 3 ) were successfully synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal process, where in-situ generation of Bi 2 S 3 nanorods and reduction of GO occurred simultaneously. Moreover, the controlled synthesis of rGO/Bi 2 S 3 nanocomposite with tunable size was achieved by adjusting the dosage of GO. The nanocomposites were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, respectively. Because of the particular construction of as-prepared nanocomposite and the synergistic effect between rGO sheets and Bi 2 S 3 nanorods, the rGO/Bi 2 S 3 film can effectively accelerate electron transport and extend catalytic active sites, leading to the remarkable electrochemical performance for dopamine sensing. The rGO/Bi 2 S 3 -1/GCE sensor exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity toward the dopamine oxidation with a wide linear range of 0.01–40 μM and a low detection limit of 12.3 nM. Furthermore, the as-prepared sensor could be feasibly applied to detect dopamine in urine samples. Hence, the prepared rGO/Bi 2 S 3 composite is one of the low cost, extremely promising and nontoxicity materials for electrocatalysis and relevant fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • S. cerevisiae YE4 influenced E. faecium and L. fermentum physiological behaviors. • S. cerevisiae YE4 caused changes in AI-2 activity and QS gene expression. • S. cerevisiae YE4 effected the proteins expression of cell wall formation and QS. The interaction mode between lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeast in a fermentation system directly determines the quality of the products, thus understanding their mode of interaction can improve product quality. The present study investigated the effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae YE4 on LAB from the perspectives of physiology, quorum sensing (QS), and proteomics. The presence of S. cerevisiae YE4 slowed down the growth of Enterococcus faecium 8–3 but had no significant effect on acid production or biofilm formation. S. cerevisiae YE4 significantly reduced the activity of autoinducer-2 at 19 h in E. faecium 8–3 and at 7–13 h in Lactobacillus fermentum 2–1. Expression of the QS-related genes luxS and pfs was also inhibited at 7 h. Moreover, a total of 107 E. faecium 8–3 proteins differed significantly in coculture with S. cerevisiae YE4—these proteins are involved in metabolic pathways including biosynthesis of secondary metabolites; biosynthesis of amino acids; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; fatty acid metabolism; and fatty acid biosynthesis. Among them, proteins involved in cell adhesion, cell wall formation, two-component systems, and ABC transporters were detected. Therefore, S. cerevisiae YE4 might affect the physiological metabolism of E. faecium 8–3 by affecting cell adhesion, cell wall formation, and cell–cell interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, shrinkage reducing admixture (SRA) was grafted on NanoSiO 2 (NS) surfaces to synthesize novel core-shell (NS@SRA) particles and improve dispersion of NS in cement paste. The synthesized NS@SRA was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and thermogravimetric analysis. A series of tests were performed to investigate the effects of NS@SRA addition on the compressive strength and shrinkage of cement paste. It is found that NS@SRA increases the strength of cement paste, especially at later ages. Unlike conventional NS, which significantly increases autogenous shrinkage of cement paste, addition of NS@SRA does not appreciably affect autogenous shrinkage of the paste at early ages. Based on dispersion and zeta potential measurements of NS and NS@SRA particles in synthetic pore solution, we propose that hydration products around NS@SRA may result in gradual separation of SRA from the core. The released SRA may reduce shrinkage and mitigate cracking of cement composites at later ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polymerized film of copper-2-amino-5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole (Cu(II)-AMT) complex (poly(Cu-AMT)) was successfully achieved via a simple and low-cost electrochemical methodology. Subsequently, a noncovalent nanohybrid of poly(Cu-AMT) with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) (rGO-poly(Cu-AMT)) was prepared through π–π stacking interaction as an efficient mimetic enzyme for the ultrasensitive and selective detection of dopamine (DA). The rGO-poly(Cu-AMT) nanocomposites showed considerable mimetic enzyme catalytic activity, which may be attributed to the significant promotion of the electron transfer between the substrate and graphene-based carbon materials, and also the synergistic electrocatalytic effect in mimetic enzyme between rGO sheet and poly(Cu-AMT). The electrocatalytic and sensing performances of the biomimetic sensor based on the rGO-poly(Cu-AMT) nanocomposites were evaluated in detail. The biomimetic sensor enables a reliable and sensitive determination of DA with a linear range of 0.01–40 μM and a detection limit of 3.48 nM at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. In addition, we applied the proposed method to detect DA in real sample with satisfactory results. Accordingly, the rGO-poly(Cu-AMT) is one of the promising mimetic enzyme for electrocatalysis and biosensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A series of sulfate Gemini surfactants with different hydrophobic chains and linking groups were synthesized. • The heat resistance, Krafft points, CMC, surface tension, emulsification were tested and evaluated in detail. • The linking groups and hydrophobic groups had a certain effect on the properties of sulfate Gemini surfactants. • The III 2a with C 14 and -(CH 2) 2 - had the best foam performance at 0.4 wt% with the V max = 780 mL and t 1/2 = 330 s. From the perspective of molecular design, a series of sulfate Gemini surfactants with different hydrophobic chains and linking groups were synthesized by etherification, ring opening and sulfation. The structures of the products were characterized by IR and 1H NMR. The synthesized sulfate Gemini surfactants had good heat resistance, especially the surfactants with rigid linking groups, measured by thermogravimetric analysis. The synthetic surfactants had low Krafft points, wherein the Krafft points of the surfactants with a carbon chain of 12 were <0 °C. With increasing hydrophobic carbon chain length or decreasing methylene number of linker, their CMC and γ cmc first decreased and then increased. The γ cmc of surfactants with rigid linking groups were higher and their CMCs were lower. It is analyzed by the calculated surface activity parameters (pC 20 , Γ max , A min) that with increasing hydrophobic chain length, the surface activity of synthetic surfactants increased first and then decreased, and the surfactant with hydrophobic carbon chain C 14 had the best surface activity. The influences of the length of the linking group and the hydrophobic group on the emulsifying capacity, wetting property, calcium soap dispersion and foam property of the surfactants were also analyzed. It was an attempt to explore and design excellent Gemini surfactants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel hybrid nanoSiO 2 containing fluorinated organic (NS@TOFS) was designed. • NS@TOFS can reduce the water absorption and carbonation of coated mortar. • NS@TOFS modified surface shows less degradation after exposure to UV-rays. • A triple layered structure of NS@TOFS modified surface was found and clarified. In surface treatment technics of cement-based materials, nanoSiO 2 (NS) is effective in refining pore structure while organic water-repelling agents are often used for producing a hydrophobic surface. Due to its advantages of pore refining effect and hydrophobicity, the organic-inorganic hybrid nanoSiO 2 has attracted increasing attention. However, the UV-irradiation can result in photodegradation of organic constituents, leading to deterioration of hydrophobicity. In this study, a novel UV-resistant fluorinated hybrid nanocomposite, NS@TOFS, was synthesized and used for surface treatment on hardened cement-based materials. The water and gas permeability of the treated samples before and after UV-aging were assessed by measuring the water absorption rate, water contact angle and carbonation degree. The experimental results showed that the NS@TOFS treated samples possess enhanced water and gas impermeability after 14 days of exposure to UV rays. A morphological observation of the treated surface revealed that a synergistic effect of organic film and refined pore structure was responsible for the improved surface properties. Findings from this study well demonstrate that the developed fluorinated hybrid nanoSiO 2 holds great promise for enhancing the durability of cement-based materials under UV-irradiations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NanoSiO 2 has been widely used to improve properties of cement-based composites, but effective dispersion of nanoparticles in cementitious materials remains to be a challenge for their practical applications. This paper introduces a surface modification technique that can enhance dispersion of nanoparticles in aqueous system, especially in the pore solution of cement paste. First, a series of nanoSiO 2 -polycarboxylate superplasticizer core-shell nanoparticles (nanoSiO 2 @PCE) were synthesized from silanized polycarboxylate superplasticizer and colloidal nanoSiO 2 by the “grafting to” method, the prepared nanoSiO 2 @PCE were characterized by DLS, FTIR, and TGA. Then the investigation on the interaction between nanoSiO 2 @PCE and cement shows that nanoSiO 2 @PCE exhibits higher stability in saturated calcium hydroxide solution than pristine nanoSiO 2 , and the heat development during cement hydration can be regulated by shell structure of nanoSiO 2 @PCE. The research provides a new route for nanoSiO 2 to optimizing cement-based composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utility of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) as electrochemical sensor often suffers from its limited catalytic efficiency. Here, we proposed an alternative approach by combining the concept of MIP with the use of mimetic enzyme. A metronidazole imprinted polymer with nitroreductase-like activity was successfully achieved via an electrochemical method, where melamine served two purposes: functional monomer of MIP and component of mimetic enzyme. During the imprinting process, the redox-active center, which is responsible for catalysis, was introduced into the imprinted cavities. Accordingly, the imprinted polymer, having both catalysis centers and recognition sites, exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity and selectivity. The sensing performances of this metronidazole imprinted biomimetic sensor were evaluated in detail. Results revealed that the response to metronidazole was linear in the concentration range of 0.5–1000 μM, and the detection limit was 0.12 μM ( S / N =3). In addition, we applied the proposed sensor to detect metronidazole in an injection solution and the results implied its feasibility for practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, linking with the butoxycarbonyl (BOC) protection of proline, a new tailed metalloporphyrin with many useful active functions, nickel (II) 5-[4-N-(tert-Butoxycarbonyl)- l -prolinecoxylpropyloxy]phenyl-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin (NiTBLPyP), was designed and synthesized. And the NiTBLPyP polymer (poly(NiTBLPyP)) was successfully obtained via a low-cost electrochemical method and exploited as an efficient mimic enzyme. Subsequently, a noncovalent nanohybrid of poly(NiTBLPyP) with graphene (rGO) sheet (rGO-poly(NiTBLPyP)) was prepared through π–π stacking interaction for the ultrasensitive and selective detection of DA. The nanohybrid was characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Due to the excellent electrocatalytic ability of poly(NiTBLPyP) film and aromatic π–π stacking interaction between poly(NiTBLPyP and rGO sheet, the obtained rGO-poly(NiTBLPyP) film exhibited a great synergistic amplification effect toward dopamine oxidation. Under optimum experimental conditions, the logarithm of catalytic currents showed a good linear relationship with that of the dopamine concentration in the range of 0.01–200 μM with a low detection limit of 1.40 nM. With good sensitivity and selectivity, the present method was applied to the determination of DA in real sample and the results was satisfactory. Thus, the rGO-poly(NiTBLPyP) film is one of the promising mimetic enzyme for electrocatalysis and relevant fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hole-transporting materials with tunable structures and properties are mainly applied in organic light-emitting diodes as transport layer. But their catalytic properties as signal amplifiers in biological assays are seldom reported. In this paper, a starburst molecule, 4,4,4″-tri(N-carbazolyl)-triphenylamine (TCT), containing a triphenylamine as the central core and three carbazoles as the peripheral functional groups was designed and synthesized. Subsequently, the hole-transporting material based on the TCT polymer, poly(TCT) (PTCT), was achieved via a low-cost electrochemical method and exploited as an efficient metal-free electrocatalyst for non-enzymatic glucose detection. Here, this hole-transporting material served three purposes: electrochemical recognition (owing to hydrogen bonding interaction and the biomimetic microenvironment created by the polymer), electrocatalysis (owing to the hole-transporting capability of triphenylamine and the catalytic property of carbazole), and signal amplification (owing to energy migration along the conductive polymer backbone). The electrocatalytic and sensing performances of the sensor based on PTCT were evaluated in detail. Results revealed that the PTCT film could efficiently catalyze the oxidation of glucose at a less-positive potential (+0.20 V) in the absence of any enzymes. The response to glucose was linear in the concentration range of 1.0–6000 μM, and the detection limit was 0.20 μM. With good stability and selectivity, the proposed sensor could be feasibly applied to detect glucose in practical samples. The encouraging sensing performances suggest that the hole-transporting material is one of the promising biomimetic catalysts for electrocatalysis and relevant fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles were synthesized and smelted with pure Sn, Ag, and Cu to prepare Sn–1.0Ag–0.7Cu– x Fe 2 O 3 nano-composite solders. The content of Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles ranged from 0 to 1 wt.% in the solders. The influences of Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles on the wettability and the morphology of interfacial intermetallics compounds (IMCs) of low-Ag Sn–Ag–Cu solders on Cu substrate were investigated. Results show that added Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles can remarkably improve the wettability of Sn–1.0Ag–0.7Cu solder alloys and inhibit the formation and the growth of the interfacial IMCs between the nano-composite solders and Cu substrate. Meanwhile, not only the wettability of the nano-composite solders but also the formation and the growth of the interfacial IMCs, during reflow and aging, are identically relied on Fe 2 O 3 weight percent in nano-composite solders. The enhancement of wettability improvement and interfacial IMC inhibition caused by nano-Fe 2 O 3 addition increased with the addition amount under small concentration. However, excessive addition of Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles in the Sn–1.0Ag–0.7Cu solder alloys will degrade the wettability and the inhibition effect on the interfacial IMCs. There is an optimum amount of Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles in Sn–1.0Ag–0.7Cu solder alloys, which is 0.4 wt.%, and Sn–1.0Ag–0.7Cu–0.4Fe 2 O 3 solders possess the best wettability and the inhibition effect on the interfacial IMCs formation and growth. The reason for improving wettability and simultaneously inhibiting IMCs formation and growth due to Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles addition is explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A copper-poly(cysteine) (Cu-poly(Cys)) film was successfully achieved via a simple electrochemical method and subsequently exploited as a nitroreductase mimetic for metronidazole detection. The electropolymerized film of cysteine provides a microenvironment for the enzymatic reaction while the metallic Cu acts as an active center with catalytic function. Electrochemical treatments lead to this mimetic enzyme with greatly enhanced catalytic performance, which make it suitable for the construction of biomimetic sensors. The electrocatalytic and sensing performances of the sensor based on the Cu-poly(Cys) film were evaluated in detail. Results revealed that the sensor exhibited linear response to metronidazole in the concentration range of 0.5-400 μM, with a detection limit of 0.37 μM. In addition, we applied the proposed method to detect metronidazole in an injection solution with satisfactory results, demonstrating that the Cu-poly(Cys) film is one of the promising biomimetic catalysts for electrocatalysis and relevant fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the effect of baicalein on side population in human multiple myeloma cell line RPMI 8226 and the underlying molecular mechanisms in vitro and in silico. Methods: MTT assay was applied to detect the anti-proliferation effect of baicalein. The detection of side population cells is based on the Hoechst 33342 exclusion assay technique and flow cytometric analysis. Western blotting assay was used to explore the expression of ABCG2 protein. Homology modeling and molecular docking were performed with Discovery Studio 2.1. Results: Baicalein decreased both cell viability with IC50 =168.5?M and the proportion of SP cells in a dose-dependent manner. Correspondingly, it significantly decreased the expression level of ABCG2 protein. Baicalein also shared similar binding sites and modes with fumitremorgin C to the protein. Conclusions: Baicalein possessed novel anticancer properties, such as anti-proliferation and drug efflux inhibition in side population cells, which suggested its potential feature of targeting cancer stem cells of multiple myeloma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the design of infill well trajectory in fractured area of shale gas reservoir, it is necessary to consider the problem how to bypass the fractured influence area of the old shale gas wells, as well as the problem of mutual interference between the different fractured sections during production. In this paper, the geometric model of the obstacles in fractured area of shale gas reservoir, which considers the trajectory error and fracturing effect, is established by vector algebra method. The trajectory type is classified according to positional relations among the obstacle, the directional line of initial point and target point. The trajectory optimization model for bypassing obstacles takes the minimum total well length as objective function, the safety distance to obstacle as one of the constraints. In addition, the geometric check method for judging whether there is interference between the different fractured sections is proposed based on the geometric obstacle model. Case studies have been carried out according to the field data from Fuling, and the results indicate that the trajectory optimization model in this paper can obtain the optimum trajectory to meet the needs for bypassing obstacle, minimum trajectory length and avoiding trial calculation. Besides, if the fracturing effect is ignored, the size of the obstacle will be significantly underestimated in fractured area of shale gas reservoir, which will result in drilling accidents. In sum, the obstacle model in this paper is more consistent with the situation of field fractured area drilling practice than that of the published model. This study will provide a more safer and briefer design method for optimizing the infill well trajectory in fractured area of shale gas reservoir, which is of great significance to the shale gas drilling design and drilling safety. • The coupling obstacles model considering both trajectory error and fracturing effect was proposed. • The optimization design model of well trajectory for bypassing obstacles has been established. • The geometric check method for judging whether there is interference between different fractured sections was proposed. • The obstacle size is underestimated when the fracturing effect and the unevenness of the fracturing effect are ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three sulfate-quaternary ammonium Gemini surfactants with different carbon chain lengths were synthesized. • The surface and interface properties, and salt and temperature resistance were evaluated in detail. • The carbon chain length has a certain effect on the properties of amphoteric Gemini surfactants. • EOR of the C 12 ZGS surfactant was 11.63% in low permeability reservoirs and more than other two surfactants. Sulfate-quaternary ammonium amphoteric Gemini surfactants with hydrophobic chains (C 12 ZGS, C 14 ZGS and C 16 ZGS) were prepared using formic acid, formaldehyde, long-chain tertiary amine, epichlorohydrin, chlorosulfone and NaOH. Their structures were characterized by IR and 1H NMR, and the synthesized target products was confirmed. The critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of C 12 ZGS, C 14 ZGS and C 16 ZGS were 5.4 × 10−4 mol/L, 3.1 × 10−4 mol/L and 2.8 × 10−4 mol/L, respectively. Their corresponding surface tensions were 28.62 mN/m, 30.98 mN/m and 32.45 mN/m. It was found that the surface tension increases with increasing hydrophobic chain length. The three Gemini surfactants have good emulsifying and foaming properties for kerosene, and they have good solubility at low temperature. The results of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the decomposition temperatures of C 12 ZGS, C 14 ZGS and C 16 ZGS were 153 °C, 157 °C and 150 °C, respectively. The salinity resistance of C 12 ZGS reached 4 × 104 mg/L, C 14 ZGS reached 5 × 104 mg/L, and the salinity resistance of C 16 ZGS was worst. C 12 ZGS and C 14 ZGS can reduce the oil–water interfacial tension to 10−2 orders of magnitude, but C 16 ZGS can only reduce it by 10−1 orders of magnitude. The stability of the surfactant flooding system was evaluated by aging time. Under the simulated reservoir formation environment, three amphoteric Gemini surfactants with different chain length (C 12 ZGS, C 14 ZGS, C 16 ZGS) can enhance oil recovery by 11.63%, 10.91% and 9.87% respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of titanium complexes of the general formula [N-(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-2-alkyl-sulfanylanilinato]Ti(IV)Cl3 (5a, b, e and f) exhibited very high catalytic activities in ethylene homo- and copolymerization with various α-olefins in the presence of modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO). The results showed that steric hindrance of the alkylthio groups in 5a–f strongly influenced the polymerization behavior. An increase in the steric hindrance of these alkyl units led to the decrease in both catalytic activity and comonomer incorporation ratio. On the other hand, the amount of α-olefin incorporated into the copolymer chain depended on the molar ratio of the monomers in the polymerization reaction and was slightly influenced by the chain length of α-olefin. Comparisons between alkylthio and arylthio substituents on catalyst performance were also discussed in this article. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, effects of preheating-induced denaturation of proteins and oleosomes on protein structure and soymilk quality were studied. The protein in soybeans baked at 55 °C (B-55) and 85 °C (B-85) showed an increase of β-sheet content by 3.2 % and a decrease of α-helix content by 3.3 %, indicating that proteins were gradually unfolded while oleosomes remained intact. The protein resisted thermal denaturation during secondary heating, and soymilks were stable as reflected by a small d 3,2 (0.4 μm). However, raw soymilk from soybeans baked at 115 °C (B-115), steamed for 1 min (ST-1) and 5 min (ST-5) presented oleosomes destruction and lipids aggregates. The proteins were coated around the oil aggregates. The β-turn content from soybeans steamed for 10 min (ST-10) increased by 9.5 %, with a dense network where the OBs were tightly wrapped, indicating the serious protein denaturation. As a result, the soymilks B-115 or steamed ones were unstable as evidenced by the serious protein aggregation and larger d 3,2 (5.65–12.48 μm). Furthermore, the soymilks were graininess and the protein digestion was delayed due to the formation of insoluble protein aggregates. The flavor and early-stage lipid digestion of soymilk from steamed soybeans was improved owing to lipid release. • Thermal treatment denatured the protein in soybeans, especially steaming treatment. • The protein in soybeans steamed for 10 min formed a dense network structure. • Soymilk made from steamed soybeans had better sensory but worse stability. • Thermal treatment altered the oleosomes structure and accelerated lipid digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) has been well acknowledged for its endocrine disruption and associated metabolic diseases, leading to the search for safer industrial alternatives including di-isononyl phthalate (DINP). However, safety data for the latter chemical has been relatively scarce particularly regarding potential damage to the kidney at low doses. Five-week-old ICR male mice were exposed to vehicle, DEHP or DINP (0.05 and 4.8 mg/kg bw) daily via gavage for 5 weeks. We observed increased levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, decreased levels of reduced glutathione, in the kidney at higher dose for both chemicals suggestive of oxidative damage. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 of the kidney further suggested inflammatory status as a result of phthalate exposure in both high dose groups. Targeted lipidomics demonstrated greatest changes in the kidney induced by high dose of DEHP, although DINP also induced significant changes in phospholipids diacylglycerides that are associated with lipid accumulation in glomerular podocytes and inflammatory responses. Our data suggest that oxidative stress may be involved in both DEHP- and DINP-induced renal lipidomic disruption and continue to question the suitability of DINP as proper DEHP substitute. • Both DEHP and DINP induced renal oxidative stress at higher exposure levels. • Low levels of DEHP and DINP induced obesogenic effect. • DEHP and DINP caused significant disruptions in renal lipidome. • Oxidative stress may be involved in phthalate-induced renal lipidomic disruption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Capacitive Imaging (CI) technique has been identified as a promising technique to detect Corrosion under insulation (CUI). Previous work focused on the detection of CUI, and this work aims to find a potential way for CUI characterisation by proposing a method to retrieve dimensions of surface features on conductors covered by insulation using the Maximum Variation Ratio (MVR) obtained in CI scans at different lift-offs. Surface features on aluminium specimens covered by 2 mm plastic panels were used to simulate CUIs. In this method, the target metal surface features are divided into juxtaposed thin cuboids defined by CI line scans. Maximum Variation Ratio (MVR), which is related to both depth and width of the cross-section of the surface feature along the line scan path, can be obtained and used for retrieving the dimensions of each thin cuboids. This method relies on both Finite Element (FE) simulations and experiments. The steps of the proposed method, including establish MVR data grids in FE models, find the relation between simulated MVR and experimental MVR, obtain the calibrated MVR data grids, and retrieve the width and depth of the slot, are descried in detail. The method was validated by line scans over a circular flat-bottomed hole and surface scans over two less regular features on aluminium specimens covered by 2 mm plastic panel. The result demonstrated reasonable accuracy (error smaller than 10.00%) in retrieving the dimensions of the target surface features, indicating this proposed method is promising for CUI characterisation. • Capacitive imaging of simulated corrosion under insulation is investigated. • Maximum Variation Ratio (MVR) is defined and used for defect size inversion. • Calibration method for MVR data grids is presented. • Feature sizing method is proposed and validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A ratiometric fluorescent probe with large Stokes shift for rapid and sensitive detection of Hg2+ in real water environment and imaging in living cells and zebrafish. [Display omitted] • A ratiometric fluorescent probe BTIA for recognition of Hg2+ was developed. • BTIA possessed prominent detection properties towards Hg2+. • BTIA was successfully applied to track Hg2+ in actual water samples. • BTIA was effectively employed for fluorescence imaging in cell, zebrafish, and onion tissue. Detection of highly toxic mercury ions (Hg2+) in actual environmental and biological samples is of significant importance for protecting environment and human health. In this paper, a new ratiometric fluorescent probe BTIA was designed and synthesized from 3-pinone based on Internal Charge Transfer (ICT) mechanism. BTIA could selectively recognize Hg2+ over other competitive analytes with short reaction time (5 s), distinct ratiometric response, strong anti-interference ability, large Stokes shift (200 nm), and low detection limit (2.36 × 10−7 M). Furthermore, BTIA was applicable for detecting Hg2+ in actual water samples and it also performed an excellent imaging capability in living RAW264.7 cells, zebrafish and onion tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We holographically fabricated metal gratings demonstrating clear bandgaps and controlled resonances of band-edge surface plasmons (SP), and studied their influences on photoluminescence (PL) of colloidal quantum dots (cQDs) on the gratings. It is verified by numerical simulations that intrinsically existing but indiscernible bandgaps of SPs on sinusoidal metal gratings get distinctly open by introducing second harmonic components in their surface profiles. We elucidated roles of spatial harmonic components of the metal gratings on the bandgaps and their experimental manifestations. The band-edge SP resonance modes are shown to enhance PL of the cQDs and have the PL linearly polarized in direction parallel to grating vector. By systematically varying position of the bandgap relative to intrinsic PL peak of the cQDs, effects of the bandgap and band-edge SPs on PL of the cQDs in modifying the spectral profiles are demonstrated. It's also verified, by varying strength of coupling between the cQDs and the SP modes, that polarization of the PL is induced by the SPs, instead of selectivity of the gratings in diffractive coupling of the emitted photons in different polarization states. In additioin, it's interestingly found that excitation light coupled to the band-edge SPs can evidently improve linear polarization degree of the PL. • Demonstration on effects of band-edge surface plasmons on photoluminescence of colloidal quantum dots on metal gratings. • Discovery of influences of band-edge surface plasmons at excitation frequency on polarization of the photoluminescence. • Experimental control of band-edge surface plasmons on metal gratings in holographic fabrication. • Verified roles of spatial harmonic components of the metal gratings on opening of the surface plasmon bandgaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Amorphous FeOOH nanosheets were grown on carbonized bamboo via a facile electrodeposition method. • The fabricated FeOOH NSs/CB composite were utilized as filter membrane for As(III) removal. • Superior As(III) sequestration performance were achieved under both static and continuous-flowing modes. • As(III) removal mechanism was systematically investigated. Exploring inexpensive and efficient adsorbents is highly desirable for addressing water contamination issues. To overcome the inherent engineering drawbacks of nanostructured adsorbents, a hierarchical hybrid membrane constructed by amorphous FeOOH nanosheets grown on carbonized bamboo (denoted as FeOOH NSs/CB) has been successfully fabricated within several minutes via a facile electrodeposition process. Thanks to abundant binding sites, amorphous nature of ultrathin FeOOH NSs, and excellent pore accessibility, the optimized FeOOH NSs/CB membrane exhibits superior As(III) sequestration capability in high removal efficiency, fast kinetics, and strong anti-interfering performance. Significantly, the optimized FeOOH NSs/CB hybrid membrane can be directly utilized as an efficient filter unit to continuously treat 1160 mL of As(III)-contaminated water (100 ppb) to below the permitted threshold in drinking water, accompanied by as high as 1528.7 L m−2 h−1 of the permeate flux. Furthermore, the spent FeOOH NSs/CB membrane is capable of being effectively regenerated with NaOH solution with no obvious efficiency decline after cycling tests. This work illustrates huge prospect of the proposed FeOOH NSs/CB hybrid membrane in treating As(III)-contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type 2 diabetes has become one of the most serious diseases impairing people's life. Circulating miRNAs, involved in the development and progression of type 2 diabetes via different mechanisms, are considered a molecular marker for patients with type 2 diabetes. Based on the expression data of miRNAs in type 2 diabetes from the GEO database, our study screen out 5 differentially expressed candidate miRNAs through the interaction network between miRNAs and target genes and the protein interaction network (PPI) with random walk algorithm. Clinical newly diagnosed diabetic blood was recruited for further PCR experiments. Finally, miR-543 was significantly different, and its expression was up-regulated. miR-543 may become a new marker to bring forth innovation in individualized treatment of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cuboid-like NH 2 -MIL-53 crystals were in-situ immobilized on wood-carbon substrate. • The NH 2 -MIL-53/WC composite were utilized as filter membrane for Pb2+ removal. • Highly effective and selective sequestration of Pb2+ were achieved. • Sorption mechanism of Pb2+ on the NH 2 -MIL-53/WC composite was studied. Designing the desirable architecture for highly efficient sequestration of heavy metal ions is of paramount importance to ensure water safety. Herein, highly dense cuboid-like NH 2 -MIL-53 crystals have been in-situ immobilized on porous wood-carbon (WC) substrate (denoted as NH 2 -MIL-53/WC) based on a self-sacrificial template strategy. Benefiting from the perfect integration of unique 3D hierarchical pore structures, abundant binding sites, and specific sorption affinity of amino functional groups in NH 2 -MIL-53 toward Pb2+, the resulting NH 2 -MIL-53/WC hybrid membrane exhibits exceptional Pb2+ decontamination capability in terms of high uptake capacity, fast removal kinetics and superior selectivity in the presence of competing ions. Meanwhile, the macroscopic-sized monolithic shape is competent for facile separation, overcoming the inherent limitations of conventional nanosorbents. Furthermore, the as-fabricated monolithic membrane can be further assembled into a home-made filter system for continuous-flow wastewater purification, accompanied by an efficient treatment capacity of 2200 kg wastewater (spiked with 10 ppm Pb2+) per kg sorbent, while restricting the Pb2+ level in the effluent below the World Health Organization (WHO) limit (10 ppb). Such intriguing Pb2+ sequestration performance in both static and flowing states render the proposed NH 2 -MIL-53/WC hybrid membrane to hold huge prospects for the practical wastewater remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A kind of NS@GO core-shell nanoparticles was synthesized and firstly applied to reinforce cementitious materials. • The incorporation of NS@GO could more effectively enhance the mechanical property of cement composites. • A hypothesis named sandwich effect was proposed to explain the reinforcing results of NS@GO. Graphene oxide (GO) has enormous potential to improve properties of cementitious materials. Well dispersed GO in hardened cement matrix could be more effective in strengthening concrete compared to aggregated GO. While GO agglomeration is somewhat inevitable due to its fine nature, the degree of agglomeration could be tuned through particle separation. In this study, nanoSiO 2 @graphene-oxide (NS@GO) nanoparticles were synthesized using GO and colloid nanoSiO 2 (NS) by a electrostatic self-assembly method. NS, GO and the prepared NS@GO were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier transmission infrared, and, the influence of NS@GO addition on the mechanical properties of cementitious composites was investigated. The results show that NS@GO can increase the flexural strength of cement composites by 49.2% at later age. A "sandwich effect" was proposed as an important reinforcing mechanism of NS@GO based on the microstructure and hydration products of NS@GO added composites. Compared with the simple NS-GO blend, NS@GO can better maintain the spatial structure of GO when mixed with cement. In addition, there would be more interactions between calcium silicate hydrates and GO during the cement hydration process, which contributes to the strength gain in NS@GO added mix. The research sheds new light on using GO and NS to optimize cementitious material design, as well as spatial coordination of different types of nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the master circadian pacemaker that drives body temperature rhythm. Time-restricted feeding (TRF) has potential as a preventative or therapeutic approach against many diseases. The potential side effects of TRF remain unknown. Here we show that daily 4-h TRF treatment in mice can severely impair body temperature homeostasis and can result in lethality. Nearly half of the mice died at 21 °C, and all mice died at 18 °C during 4-h TRF. This effect was modulated by the circadian clock and was associated with severe hypothermia due to loss of body temperature homeostasis. Remarkably, disrupting the circadian clock by SCN lesions or constant light rescued lethality during TRF. Analysis of circadian gene expression in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) demonstrated that TRF reprograms rhythmic transcriptome in DMH and suppresses expression of genes, such as Ccr5 and Calcrl, which are involved in thermoregulation. Together, our results demonstrated a potent effect of TRF on body temperature homeostasis and the role of SCN function in this process. Our results further suggested that circadian arrhythmicity can have potential beneficial effects under certain stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cutaneous toxicities are the commonest side effects in patients with cancer treated using epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors such as erlotinib. For patients with such toxicities, there is a lack of safe, effective pharmacological agents. Here we established a skin toxicity model and investigated the preventive and therapeutic effect of Diallyl Trisulfide (DATS) in vivo. The mouse skin toxicities model was established through continuous administration of erlotinib for 49 days. Meanwhile, the mice in the experimental group underwent DATS treatment for 49 days. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and oil red O staining of back and limb skin was performed to determine whether DATS aqueous extract can reverse the skin toxicities caused by erlotinib. Compared with the erlotinib group, the incidence of rash in the DATS group was lower. In addition, in the DATS group, the degree of skin redness and herpes was mild, the body weight was stable, and the activity was favorable. By comparing the HE and oil red O staining results for the mouse skin, the degree of keratin hyperplasia was determined to be lower in the experimental group than in the erlotinib group, and the number of purulent neutrophils decreased. The number of follicles was relatively less. The release of TNF-α, IL-6 and other inflammatory factors was reduced by DATS. Erlotinib hydrochloride can cause severe skin toxicities, and DATS prevents skin toxicities, its mechanism may be related to DATS reduced erlotinib-induced inflammatory injury. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • An animal model of dermal toxicity caused by EGFRI was established. • The skin protection of DATS was confirmed. • It was verified that the skin protection mechanism of DATS is related to the anti-inflammatory effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramic slurries play an essential role in the fabrication of complex ceramic parts in ceramic stereolithography (CSL), in which photosensitive monomer is the focus. In this study, the comprehensive properties of commonly used monomers were quantitatively studied by a new evaluation system. As a result, ACMO, PONPGDA and EOTMPTA were selected as the final three monomers with better properties. On this basis, an optimal combination of the above monomers with the best comprehensive performance was obtained by blending them at a ratio of 60:60:40. Next, the influence of different resins on the properties of alumina slurries was investigated. It was found that using the mixture of the above three monomers, an excellent as-prepared slurry with low viscosity, small shrinkage and good photo-curable ability was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic increases the risk of psychological problems including suicidal ideation (SI) in the general population. In this study, we investigated the risk factors of SI after the COVID-19 pandemic was initially controlled in China. We conducted an online questionnaire via JD Health APP in China in June 2020. Demographic data, feelings and experiences related to the COVID-19 pandemic and psychological problems were collected. The participants (n = 14,690) were divided into the non-SI and SI groups. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the correlates of SI. Nine percent of the participants (1328/14690) reported SI. The regression analysis showed that SI was positively associated with ethnic minority (OR = 1.42 [1.08–1.85]), age (e.g. 18–30 years: OR = 2.31 [1.67–3.20]), having history of mental disorders (OR = 2.75 [2.27–3.35]), daily life disturbance due to health problems (OR = 1.67 [1.38–2.01]), being around someone with the COVID-19 (OR = 1.58 [1.30–1.91]), being uncertain about effective disease control (OR = 1.23 [1.03–1.46]), and having depressive symptoms (OR = 4.40 [3.59–5.39]), insomnia symptoms (OR = 2.49 [2.13–2.90]) or psychological distress (OR = 1.87 [1.59–2.18]). The main limitation is that the cross-sectional design of this study could not allow us to further explore the causality of SI. The prevalence of SI was relatively high in general population after the COVID-19 pandemic was initially controlled in China. SI should be monitored continually after the COVID-19 pandemic. [Display omitted] • The rate of SI was still high after the COVID-19 pandemic was initially controlled. • Multiple factors were associated with suicidal ideation after the COVID-19 pandemic was initially controlled. • Mental health and SI should continue to be monitored after the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cross-phenomenon in which the concentration-response curve (CRC) for a mixture crosses the CRC for the reference model has been identified in many studies, expressed as a heterogeneous pattern of joint toxic action. However, a mechanistic explanation of the cross-phenomenon has thus far been extremely insufficient. In this study, a time-dependent cross-phenomenon was observed, in which the cross-concentration range between the CRC for the mixture of sulfamethoxypyridazine (SMP) and ( Z -)-4-Bromo-5-(bromomethylene)-2(5H)-furanone (C30) to the bioluminescence of Aliivibrio fischeri ( A . fischeri ) and the CRC for independent action model with 95% confidence bands varied from low-concentration to higher-concentration regions in a timely manner expressed the joint toxic action of the mixture changing with an increase of both concentration and time. Through investigating the time-dependent hormetic effects of SMP and C30 (by measuring the expression of protein mRNA, simulating the bioluminescent reaction and analyzing the toxic action), the underlying mechanism was as follows: SMP and C30 acted on the quorum sensing (QS) system of A . fischeri , which induced low-concentration stimulatory effects and high-concentration inhibitory effects; in the low-concentration region, the stimulatory effects of SMP and C30 made the mixture produce a synergistic stimulation on the bioluminescence; thus, the joint toxic action exhibited antagonism. In the high-concentration region, the inhibitory effects of SMP and C30 in the mixture caused a double block in the loop circuit of the QS system; thus, the joint toxic action exhibited synergism. With the increase of time, these stimulatory and inhibitory effects of SMP and C30 were changed by the variation of the QS system at different growth phases, resulting in the time-dependent cross-phenomenon. This study proposes an induced mechanism for time-dependent cross-phenomenon based on QS, which may provide new insight into the mechanistic investigation of time-dependent cross-phenomenon, benefitting the environmental risk assessment of mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of electron-withdrawing group into porphyrin molecule as cytochrome P450 model can tune the energy level and have an effect on the electronic structure. In this work, linking with the strong electron-withdrawing fluorine atoms, a starburst dendritic molecule, 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)−21H,23H-porphyrin iron (III) chloride (FeTFPP), containing a saddle-shaped porphyrin as the central core and four pentafluorophenyl rings as the peripheral functional groups was successfully synthesized. Subsequently, the macrocyclic conjugate polymer film of FeTFPP was achieved via a low-cost electrochemical method and exploited as an efficient mimetic enzyme. Furthermore, a biomimetic sensor was constructed by the poly(FeTFPP) film and graphene (rGO) sheet (rGO-poly(FeTFPP)) for selective and sensitive detection of dopamine (DA). Here, the FeTFPP polymer performs three functions: electrochemical recognition (owing to the hydrogen bonding between the strongly electronegative fluorine atoms and DA), biomimetic microenvironment (owing to interaction between porphyrin core and DA), electrocatalysis (owing to remarkable catalytic ability of iron (III) ion). Under optimum conditions, the response to DA was linear in the concentration range between 0.05 to 300 μM, and the detection limit was 0.023 μM. In addition, we applied the rGO-poly(FeTFPP) film to detect DA in real samples and the results implied its feasibility for practical application. As a result, it is believed that the rGO-poly(FeTFPP) film is one of the promising biomimetic catalysts for electrocatalysis and relevant fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Donor–Acceptor (D–A) structure like host-guest pair serves as an organic charge–transfer (C–T) material with pregnant electrochemical and photochemical properties. Phenothiazine, a conjugated nitrogen-sulfur heterocyclic compound with broad pharmaceutical profile, is a strong electron donating system and applied in the synthesis of various classic antipsychotic drugs. In this proposal, a novel D–A molecule, 2,3-bis(4-(10H-phenothiazin-10-yl)phenyl)fumaronitrile (PTBFN), containig a diphenylfumaronitrile as the electrophilic central core and two phenothiazines as the peripheral electron donor functional groups is first designed and synthesized. Subsequently, the C–T layer based on the PTBFN polymer, poly(PTBFN), is obtained via a straightforward electrochemical method and used as an efficient electrocatalyst for dopamine (DA) detection. The logarithm of oxidation peak currents present an outstanding linear response to that of the DA concentration varying from 0.005 to 350 μM with a detection limit down to 0.70 nM, wherein the interferences of uric acid (UA) and ascorbic acid (AA) could be eliminated effectively. Moreover, the biosensor displays decent stability, excellent selectivity for different interfering compounds and applicability in real samples analysis. The favorable sensing performance suggests that the nontrivial D–A architecture is one of the promising bioaffinity catalysts for electrocatalysis and expected to provide wider application potential for biosensing construction and medical diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SCMs pastes by CO 2 and coupled CO 2 -standard curing were exposed to high temperature. • Coupled CO 2 -standard curing yielded the highest compressive strength at 600 ℃. • Coupled CO 2 -standard curing of SCMs pastes induced a denser pore structure at 600 ℃. • Glass powder barely showed pozzolanic reaction or carbonation promotion but was inert in cement blocks. This study seeks to understand the influence of CO 2 curing on the high-temperature performance of cement paste incorporated with different types of common supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). The results showed that due to the simultaneous generation of CaCO 3 and hydration products, the samples carbonated for 2 days and then standard cured for 26 days (CS curing) had the best high-temperature resistance, which was reflected by higher compressive strength, lower water absorption and decreased water sorptivity. Interestingly, the porosity of the CS cured ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS)-incorporated cement block decreased by 26.80% after exposure to 600 ℃ due to the transformation of large loose pores into more compact small pores. Glass powder (GP) was inert in the paste matrix with no obvious pozzolanic reaction and negligible improvement of carbonation degree, leading to the lowest elevated-temperature performance; whereas, GGBS and fly ash (FA) increased the generation of CaCO 3 by 19.05% and 15.08%, respectively. Overall, findings from the present study demonstrate that the employment of CS curing of SCMs blended cement blocks has great potential to reduce carbon footprint and improve performance under elevated temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]