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Ideal urine screening should realize the detection of a variety of different urine proteins, corresponding to the diagnosis of different diseases. However, there is a lack of effective instruments to realize the simultaneous screening of albumin and light chain protein. In this paper, a specialized multiplexed urine protein detection instrument based on SPR technology was developed for quantitative detection of human serum albumin (HSA), beta-2-microglobulin (B2M), kappa light chain and lambda light chain protein. A modified BSA sensor membrane was developed to realize one-step direct detection of the analyte. The sensitivity, repeatability and specificity of the SPR instrument were analyzed and tested, and the standard curves of four proteins were calculated. Comparing the results between healthy people and nephrotic patients by our instrument, it was found that there was a significant difference in the two groups for HSA and B2M detection (p < 0.01), indicating that HSA and B2M are suitable markers for nephropathy diagnosis. Furthermore, the performance of our instrument was compared with commercialized platforms and got lower experimental concentrations than the immunoturbidimetry method in kappa and lambda detection. It will promote early screening of kidney and tumour diseases simultaneously by applying our SPR sensor in the future. • A specialized multiplexed urine protein detection instrument. • The lowest concentrations of four urinary proteins all met the requirements of clinical sample detection. • The regeneration times of the SPR chip surface is more than 50. • Better detection limit than immunoturbidimetry method. • Early diagnosis and screening of clinical samples for renal and tumor diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottom-supported platform with mat foundations is considered as a cost-effective option for offshore wind power installations due to its rapid installation and extraction period. However, the contact interface between mat foundation and soft seabed may undergo softening due to cyclic wave loads in operation, leading to bearing capacity losses especially in horizontal direction. In this study, the behavior of mat foundation on clay seabed under cyclic wave loads is investigated and the weakening effect on bearing capacity is presented. A unified elastoplastic constitutive model is adopted to consider the soil structure and over-consolidation in natural clay. Responses of excess pore water pressure, effective stress and horizontal bearing capacity for clays with various degrees of clay structures and over-consolidation ratios (OCR) are studied. Effects of wave frequencies and amplitudes on weakening effect of the interface are presented and discussed. Results indicate that the degrees of weakening effects of the normalized horizontal bearing capacity decrease with the increase of the degree of clays structure and OCR value. The clays structure is not easily damaged under the action of cyclic wave loads. The clay's over-consolidation state can be easily dissipated and transformed into normally consolidated clays under the action of wave loads with frequency equal to 0.4/s. The horizontal bearing capacity is basically consistent with the evolution tendency of the vertical effective stress at the interface of mat foundation and clay seabed, and it can be considered that the weakening effect of the horizontal bearing capacity is controlled by the interface. • The responses of mat foundation under wave loads are investigated using the unified elastoplastic constitutive model. • The weakening effect degree of the bearing capacity decreases with the increase of clay structure degree and OCR value. • The weakening effect degree of the bearing capacity increases with the increase of wave loads frequency and amplitude. • The weakening effect of the horizontal bearing capacity is controlled by the interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rate constants (100–2500 K) for the H+CH(v =0, j =0)→H 2 +C reaction. The solid and dashed lines are the QM-CC, and QCT results in this work (with a wider energy range 0.010–1.0 eV), respectively. The dashed dot and dot lines are QCT results calculated by Zhang et al. [14] and Harding et al. [6]. The experimental results are denoted by ■, and errors bars are ±30%. [Display omitted] • The effect of vibrational excitation of reactants on H + CH → H 2 + C reaction probability and integral cross section has been studied using quantum time-dependent wave packet method. • The influence of vibrational excitation on the Coriolis coupling effect has been discussed in detail for the first time. • The effect of vibrational energy level of reactants on reaction mechanism is analyzed in detail. • The calculated reaction rate constants of H + CH(v = 0, j = 0) → H 2 + C reaction in the temperature range of 1500–2000 K are much closer to the experimental center values than the existing theoretical ones. Based on the new ab initio potential energy surface of CH 2 (X 3A″) system, the influence of the reactant vibration on the H + CH → H 2 + C reaction has been studied by using quantum time-dependent wave packet method. The results show that for the collision energy lower than 0.47 eV, the vibrational excitation of reactants inhibits the abstraction reaction H + CH → H 2 + C, but promotes the exchange reaction H + CH → HC + H. In addition, the vibrational excitation of reactants has also a certain influence on the Coriolis coupling effect. Finally, because of the wider collision energy range (0.010–1.0 eV) in CC and QCT calculations in this work, the calculated reaction rate constants of H + CH(v = 0, j = 0) → H 2 + C reaction in the temperature range of 1500–2000 K are much closer to the experimental center value than the existing theoretical results, which shows that the calculation results in this work are more reasonable and accurate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity is an important cause of acute liver failure, resulting in massive deaths in many developed countries. Currently, the metabolic process of APAP in the body has been well studied. However, the underlying mechanism of APAP-induced liver injury remains elusive. Increasing clinical and experimental evidences indicate that the innate immune responses are involved in the pathogenesis of APAP-induced acute liver injury (AILI), in which immune cells have dual roles of inducing inflammation to exacerbate hepatotoxicity and removing dead cells and debris to help liver regeneration. In this review, we summarize the latest findings of innate immune cells involved in AILI, particularly emphasizing the activation of innate immune cells and their different roles during the injury and repair phases. Moreover, current available treatments are discussed according to the different roles of innate immune cells in the development of AILI. This review aims to update the knowledge about innate immune responses in the pathogenesis of AILI, and provide potential therapeutic interventions for AILI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The local–flexural interactive buckling of S690 high strength steel slender channel section columns was studied. • Twelve pin-ended compression tests were conducted. • FE models were developed and validated and then adopted to perform parametric studies. • The accuracy of the codified design rules was assessed, revealing inaccuracy. • A new design approach was proposed, showing a high level of accuracy. This paper reports an experimental and numerical investigation into the local–flexural interactive buckling behaviour and resistance of press-braked S690 high strength steel slender channel section columns. An experimental programme was firstly conducted and included initial geometric imperfection measurements and twelve pin-ended column tests. Interaction between local buckling and flexural buckling was observed for all specimens upon testing and discussed in detail. The experimental programme was accompanied by a numerical modelling programme, where finite element models were developed and validated against the test results and then employed to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions and member effective lengths. The obtained test and numerical data were used to assess the accuracy of the codified design rules for press-braked S690 high strength steel slender channel section columns failing by local–flexural interactive buckling, as set out in the European code, North American specification and Australian/New Zealand standard. The assessment results revealed that the European code leads to excessively conservative and scattered resistance predictions, while the North American specification and Australian/New Zealand standard result in a higher level of design accuracy and consistency, but still with many conservative resistance predictions for columns with short to intermediate lengths. Finally, a new design approach was proposed and shown to yield substantially more accurate and consistent resistance predictions for press-braked S690 high strength steel slender channel section columns over the design codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida albicansis a polymorphic fungus which is the predominant cause of superficial and deep tissue fungal infections. This microorganism has developed efficient strategies to invade the host and evade host defense systems. However, the host immune system will be prepared for defense against the microbe by recognition of receptors, activation of signal transduction pathways and cooperation of immune cells. As a consequence,C. albicanscould either be eliminated by immune cells rapidly or disseminate hematogenously, leading to life-threatening systemic infections. The interplay betweenCandida albicansand the host is complex, requiring recognition of the invaded pathogens, activation of intricate pathways and collaboration of various immune cells. In this review, we will focus on the effects of innate immunity that emphasize the first line protection of host defense against invadedC. albicansincluding the basis of receptor-mediated recognition and the mechanisms of cell-mediated immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time-dependent dynamics studies on the H + Li 2 ( X 1 Σ g + ) reaction has been carried out by using the novel HLi 2 (X 2 A′) potential energy surface [7] . The reaction probabilities from both Coriolis coupling and centrifugal sudden approximation calculation exhibit oscillations, being attributed to the existence of deep potential well in the reaction. The integral cross sections of the Coriolis coupling calculation are slightly larger than those of the centrifugal sudden approximation calculation over the collision energy range of 0–0.4 eV, which demonstrates that the Coriolis coupling effect plays an important role in the H + Li 2 ( X 1 Σ g + ) reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimising the timing of flowering contributes to successful sexual reproduction and yield in agricultural plants. FLOWERING LOCUS T ( FT) genes, first identified in Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis), promote flowering universally, but the upstream flowering regulatory pathways can differ markedly among plants. Flowering in the model legume, Medicago truncatula (Medicago) is accelerated by winter cold (vernalisation) followed by long day ( LD) photoperiods leading to elevated expression of the floral activator, FT-like gene FTa1. However, Medicago, like some other plants, lacks the activator CONSTANS ( CO) and the repressor FLOWERING LOCUS C ( FLC) genes which directly regulate FT and are key to LD and vernalisation responses in Arabidopsis. Conversely, Medicago has a VERNALISATION2- LIKE VEFS-box gene ( Mt VRN2). In Arabidopsis At VRN2 is a key member of a Polycomb complex involved in stable repression of Arabidopsis FLC after vernalisation. VRN2-like genes have been identified in other eudicot plants, but their function has never been reported. We show that Mtvrn2 mutants bypass the need for vernalisation for early flowering in LD conditions in Medicago. Investigation of the underlying mechanism by transcriptome analysis reveals that Mtvrn2 mutants precociously express FTa1 and other suites of genes including floral homeotic genes. Double-mutant analysis indicates that early flowering is dependent on functional FTa1. The broad significance of our study is that we have demonstrated a function for a VRN2-like VEFS gene beyond the Brassicaceae. In particular, Mt VRN2 represses the transition to flowering in Medicago by regulating the onset of expression of the potent floral activator, FTa1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six aluminum alloy tensile coupon tests were carried out and stress–strain curves obtained from tests were compared with a Ramberg–Osgood model. Comparison showed that the Ramberg–Osgood model can precisely describe stress–strain relationship of 6063-T5 aluminum alloy. Totally, 10 axial compression tests on thin-walled aluminum alloy members with four stiffened closed-section were carried out. Local buckling occurred in all specimens eventually. The axial displacement, lateral deflection, strain development and failure modes of the tested specimens were recorded. A finite element method (FEM) model was presented to simulate local buckling behaviors of the tested columns under axial load. The ultimate strength, strain development and failure modes obtained from FEM agreed well with the test results. Current design codes on aluminum alloy structures, such as the American aluminum design manual (AA), the European code (EC9), Chinese design specifications for aluminum structures (GB50429), the North American Specification for the design of cold-formed steel structural members (AISI) and the direct strength method (DSM), were used to calculate the ultimate strength of the tested columns. Comparison showed that current design codes overestimated the ultimate strength of stiffened closed-section thin-walled aluminum alloy columns under axial compression loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale vegetation restoration and climate change triggered a significant decline in runoff in the middle reaches of the Yellow River and its tributaries. This runoff decline intensifies inherent water shortage and results in more severe water use conflicts that are threatening sustainable development in the Loess Plateau. Innovative strategies for more water-efficient land management are essential. To this end, the factors controlling runoff were investigated using the upstream area of the Jing River as an example. Runoff was found to be mainly controlled by evaporative demand, precipitation, and land cover type. Budyko's frameworks were applied to predict the annual and long-term runoff; however, the effect of changes in land management ( e.g. , afforestation) on runoff cannot be assessed due to lack of vegetation factors. Therefore, an empirical analysis tool was derived based on an existing relationship for runoff estimation. This method was found to be more effective in reproducing the annual and long-term runoff than others. The incorporation of temporal changes in land cover and form in approach enables the estimation of the possible impact of soil conservation measures ( e.g. , afforestation or terracing). Our study highlights the importance of adaptive land management strategies for mitigating water shortage on the Loess Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although subjective well-being has been widely discussed as being one of the important indicators of clinical depression, few studies have explored how it relates to trait depression. In particular, increasing the number of positive experiences has long been a potential goal for depression-related clinical interventions, but the mechanisms by which such interventions work in countering depression have been poorly studied. Grounded in the cognitive theory of depression, the current study aimed to address this specific gap by testing the mediating effects of community feeling and self-compassion between trait depression and subjective well-being. A survey of 783 college students found that trait depression was not only able to directly and negatively predict individual subjective well-being but also indirectly predict individual subjective well-being through the mediating role of community feeling and self-compassion alone and through the chain mediating role of self-compassion from community feeling. These findings reveal the internal mechanisms of trait depression that, to some extent, impede subjective well-being and offer certain guiding significance for the self-regulation of interventions for clinical and non-clinical individuals with trait depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plasma jet normally operates in a regime of positive or negative streamers. Different propagating behaviors have been investigated for positive streamers. However, there are few studies on negative streamers. In this paper, a two-dimensional fluid model is used to simulate the behavior of a negative streamer encountered with a cloud of positive ions. Simulation results indicate that the negative streamer behaves like a free streamer when the ion cloud has a low charge density. After initiation near the needle tip, the streamer propagates along the axis, passes through the ion cloud, and finally reaches the anode vicinity along a straight line. When the streamer reaches the ion cloud, its head radius (R0) is investigated as a function of parameters, including the voltage amplitude and the gap width, as well as the charge density, axial position, and spatial size of the ion cloud. At a given moment, electric field strength and electron density near the streamer head increase with increasing charge density of the ion cloud. In the case of a high charge-density ion cloud, after a primary streamer propagates some distance along the axis, a positive secondary streamer, and a negative secondary streamer start to propagate from the cloud to the cathode and the anode, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilsonglucinols H-K (1–4), four new polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs), and eight known compounds (5–12) were isolated and identified from the aerial parts of Hypericum wilsonii. Their planner structures were confirmed via extensive NMR and HRESIMS data analysis. The absolute configurations of the new compounds were mainly determined by NMR calculation and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. Compounds 1 , 6 , 8, and 10 showed glucose uptake activities at 30 μg/mL, in which compound 6 showed the strongest effect and increased the glucose uptake by 2.73 folds. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-walled columns with section are used widely as columns in aluminum alloy framed structures, offering high strength-to-weight ratios and convenience in connection with maintaining walls. In this paper, thin-walled aluminum alloy columns with section were studied experimentally and numerically to investigate the buckling behavior and to assess the accuracy of current design methods. A finite element model (FEM) was developed and used to perform parametric studies after being verified by tests. Effects of plate thickness on elastic buckling stress was studied using finite strip method (FSM) and to find the potential buckling failure mode at a given length. Tested ultimate strengths were compared with those predicted by the current American, European and Chinese specifications on aluminum alloy structures and the Direct Strength Method (DSM) on thin-walled structures. Following reliability analysis, the design strength predicted by current design specifications were found to be generally conservative, whereas DSM offered more accurate results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the uncertainty of the Avogadro constant for the new definition of the kilogram, the surface analysis of the Si sphere produced for the accurate determination of the Avogadro constant is indispensable. In this paper, we conducted the surface quantitative analyses to find out the metallic contaminations on a 1-kg natural Si sphere by X-ray fluorescence analysis. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigations were also carried out to estimate the thickness of the oxide layer and clarify the chemical binding state of the carbonaceous contamination layer on the surface of a dummy Si sphere. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are heterogeneous, immature, myeloid progenitor cells, which suppress immune responses against tumors. CD14HLA-DR monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSC) are increased in patients suffering from multiple myeloma (MM). However, the frequency and function of M-MDSCs with the relationship between the tumor development and outcome of therapy in MM remain unclear. In this study, we analyzed the changes in M-MDSCs in newly diagnosed, relapsed and remission MM patients. In addition, we also assessed the response of M-MDSCs in MM patients treated with a bortezomib-based therapy as well as the impact of bortezomib on the modulation of M-MDSCs in vitro. The levels of M-MDSCs in newly diagnosed and relapsed MM patients were significantly increased compared with those in remission MM patients and healthy donors. Moreover, the levels of M-MDSCs were shown to correlate with tumor progression. The decrease in M-MDSCs after proteasome inhibitory therapy suggested that M-MDSCs could be considered as an indicator for the efficacy of therapy. Finally, we found the plasma from newly diagnosed MM patients, and MM cells were able to induce the accumulation of M-MDSCs in vitro. These results indicated that M-MDSCs could be considered as a prognostic predictor and an important cell type contributing to immune suppressive microenvironment in MM patients. Treatments targeting for M-MDSCs may improve therapeutic outcomes for MM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim of metal decontamination, migration and stabilization of multiply heavy metals in an aged contaminated soil under a constant 1 V cm−1parallel-plate electric field were investigated through monitoring the metal migration in the anolyte, as well as analyzing their species distribution residual in soil. Besides anionic Cr(VI), cationic metals were also found in the anolyte, primarily by the concentration-gradient-driven diffusion of free ions, especially when the produced H+considerably increased their levels in the soil. After 295 h, parts of Cu, Cr, Ni, and Zn were found to electro-migrate into the intermediate area, but no obvious Pb migration was observed, likely ascribed to its own great inertia and precipitation with the present Cr(VI). However, in the whole, only 5.3% of Zn and 2.7% of Ni were separated, while the release of other heavy metals was almost ignorable. Although Pb mobility in the soil near the anode even increased three times, the overall metal mobility in all sample locations was found to significantly reduce under the electric field, indicating an effective stabilization approach. Moreover, compared with the bottom soil, the top soil near the anode was found to have a lower pH, higher moisture, lower heavy metal concentrations, and less soil oxidant demand; these phenomena may be due to a faster electro-migration of charged ions, especially H+, in the top soil. Therefore, such a divergence may considered to improve the current simulation approach for a realistic estimation of the actual metal and H+electro-migration rate and the associated behavior under an electric field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrotransposons constitute a major part of the genome in a number of eukaryotes. Long-terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons are one type of the retrotransposons. Candida albicans have 34 distinct LTR-retrotransposon families. They respectively belong to the Ty1/copia and Ty3/gypsy groups which have been extensively studied in the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. LTR-retrotransposons carry two LTRs flanking a long internal protein-coding domain, open reading frames. LTR-retrotransposons use RNA as intermediate to synthesize double-stranded DNA copies. in this article, we describe the structure feature, retrotransposition mechanism and the influence on organism diversity of LTR retrotransposons in C. albicans. we also discuss the relationship between pathogenicity and LTR retrotransposons in C. albicans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feeding habitat and carbon source play critical roles in certain the trophic transfer and bioaccumulation ability of chemicals in aquatic ecosystems. However, it remains largely unknown how these factors affect the trophic magnification factors (TMFs) of antibiotics in lake ecosystem. This study compared the differences of TMFs for Quinolones (QNs) antibiotics and carbon/nitrogen sources between pelagic foodweb (PFW, 11 species) and benthic foodweb (BFW, 14 species) in Baiyangdian Lake, Northern China. δ 13 C showed higher values in BFW, while δ 15 N appeared higher values in PFW. The mean percentage of pelagic nitrogen source (PNS) was higher than benthic nitrogen source (BNS), while the mean percentages of pelagic carbon source (PCS) and benthic carbon source (BCS) were approximately equal. Relatively high concentrations of enrofloxacin (ENR), flumequine (FLU), norfloxacin (NOR), and ofloxacin (OFL) were detected, and the total concentrations of QNs were 27.73–126.4 ng/g dw in PFW, while 23.49–121.3 ng/g dw in BFW. ENR and NOR appeared trophic magnification, while FLU and OFL exhibited trophic dilution. The TMFs of these QNs in PFW were significantly higher than in BFW. The concentration of QNs in biological samples were significantly positive correlation with δ 15 N , while negative correlated with δ 13 C. The TMFs for FLU and OFL were positively correlated with PCS/PNS, while negatively correlated with BCS/BNS. The opposite was true for NOR and ENR. First studied the differences of TMFs for typical QNs and carbon/nitrogen sources between PFW and BFW in a shallow lake. [Display omitted] • First reported the difference of TMFs for QNs between PFW and BFW. • Most of QNs showed higher concentration in PFW than in BFW • The TMFs of QNs in PFW were significantly higher than in BFW. • Carbon and nitrogen sources as important factors influencing the TMFs. • Established linear mixed models for TMFs by carbon and nitrogen source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social and economic losses induced by landslides can be reduced by means of effective planning and management. A series of landslide management projects have been implemented for landslide risk reduction since 1977 in Hong Kong. The effectiveness of the landslide management projects needs to be quantified to promote the experience for decision-making. In this study, a database of landslide-induced consequences in Hong Kong from 1984 to 2015 is first compiled. Then the effectiveness of landslide management projects in Hong Kong is evaluated from the implications of the relationship between rainfall and landslide consequences. A new method is proposed to detect the turning years for the management projects by evaluating the coefficient of variation (COV) of dissimilarity. The results are compared to the implementations of landslide management projects in Hong Kong and further verified by the consequences caused by 6 types of slopes. The landslide posed high risks before 2009 and exhibited a decreasing trend. After 2009, the landslide-induced consequences became very small. The years 1992, 2000, and 2008 are identified as the key turning years for landslide management using the proposed method. The landslide management projects work effectively when launched about every eight years. The turning years detected based on proximity of rainfall and landslide-induced consequences agree well with the timings of management projects. The initial Landslip Prevention Measures Programme (LPMP) launched in 1977 might have already reached its limit in 1992. More effort should be put into preventing landslide-caused road failures. • The database of rainfall and landslide consequences in Hong Kong is compiled. • The dissimilarity indices of rainfall and consequences in each year are calculated. • An automatic algorithm is proposed to divide the dissimilarity indices into several stages. • The effectiveness of landslide management projects is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ageing affects taste sensitivity of sweetness. • Ageing does not affect chemesthetic sensation of capsaicin and Sichuan peppercorn. • Taste sensitivity/chemesthetic sensation correlates with facial emotion perception. Food is essential in our daily life and it is important to learn about changes in taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensation of food with increasing age. The present study aimed to 1) assess young and older adults' taste sensitivity (sweetness, saltiness) and chemesthetic sensation (induced by capsaicin and Sichuan peppercorn), and 2) explore the relationship between taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensation with emotion perception. Thirty young and twenty-four older healthy Chinese adults took part in this study, in which their taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensation were measured and recorded. We observed a significant decrease in taste sensitivity (sweetness) but not chemesthetic sensation (capsaicin and Sichuan peppercorn) with ageing, showing that ageing affects taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensations in different ways. Furthermore, our results have revealed significant correlations between taste sensitivity (sweetness) and chemesthetic sensation (capsaicin) with facial emotion perceptual performance, while no significant correlation was found between any taste sensitivity/chemesthetic sensation with facial identity perceptual performance. Based on the current literature, we assume that the observed associations between taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensation with emotion perception might be due to their shared neural processing regions or their interconnection with interoception. The findings of the present study not only revealed the age-related changes in taste sensitivity and chemesthetic sensation, but also provided the first behavioural evidence showing the cross-domain associations between emotion perception with taste sensitivity/chemesthetic sensation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental and numerical studies on hot-rolled stainless steel channel sections subjected to combined compression and minor-axis bending moment have been conducted and are fully reported in the present paper. The testing programme included initial local geometric imperfection measurements and ten minor-axis eccentric compression (combined loading) tests. The numerical modelling programme comprised a validation study, where finite element models were developed and validated against the test results, and a series of parametric studies, where the developed finite element models were adopted to generate further numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions and loading combinations. The experimentally and numerically obtained data were used to assess the accuracy of the design interaction curves for hot-rolled stainless steel channel sections under minor-axis combined loading, as given in the European code and American specification. The assessment results generally reveal that the design interaction curves provided in the main body of the two design codes lead to unduly conservative and scattered failure load predictions, mainly owing to the conservative end points (i.e. the cross-section compression and bending resistances), which are calculated without considering material strain hardening. The appendix of each design code also provides an alternative method that uses the continuous strength method to account for material strain hardening in calculating the end points of the design interaction curve, and is shown to result in much more accurate and consistent predictions of failure load for hot-rolled stainless steel channel sections under combined compression and minor-axis bending moment. • The behaviour of hot-rolled stainless steel channel sections under minor-axis combined loading is studied. • Ten eccentric compression tests on hot-rolled stainless steel channel section stub columns are conducted. • FE models are developed and validated against the test results and then used to conduct parametric studies. • The codified design interaction curves are assessed, indicating conservatism. • The CSM-based codified design interaction curves are shown to yield higher accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• C allocation involves plant growth and responses to changing environments. • Mowing and N fertilization did not affect C accumulation at community level. • Mowing and N fertilization enhanced C accumulation in forbs and grasses. • Mowing increased 13C allocation to stolon of forb species. • N fertilization increased 13C allocation to rhizome of grass species. Mowing has been a routine grassland management with consequences of removing nutrients from the nitrogen (N)-limited grassland ecosystems. Carbon (C) allocation plays important roles in plant growth and responses to changing environments. Despite studies on interactions between N fertilization and mowing, no studies have specifically focused on responses of C allocation priorities to N fertilization and mowing at plant functional groups and individual species levels. In the present study, 13C isotope labelling was used to trace the effects of 3-year of N fertilization and mowing on the fate of newly-assimilated C (accumulation and allocation priorities) at community, functional group and species levels in a temperate grassland of northern China. We applied the allometric allocation theory to explain the differential C allocation patterns among the organs of different species. Mowing and N fertilization for three consecutive years had no impacts on accumulation of newly-assimilated C at community level. However, C allocation in forbs and grasses differed markedly in their responses to mowing and N fertilization, such that mowing enhanced C accumulation in forbs and N fertilization enhanced C accumulation in grasses. In addition, mowing increased 13C allocation to stolon of forb species, thus facilitating their propagation. Moreover, N fertilization increased 13C allocation to rhizomes of grass species, ensuring clonal grasses to occupy a new niche. We demonstrated that grasses and forbs in a temperate grassland evolved different strategies of C allocation in response to mowing and N fertilization. The contrasting responses may account for the observation that N fertilization and mowing had no impacts on C accumulation at the community level. Our results highlight the necessity to monitor C allocation at functional group and dominant plant species levels, rather than at community level of grasslands exclusively for mechanistically understanding how grasslands respond to mowing and N fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary malignant tumor of bone. Macropinocytosis, a form of non-selective nutrient endocytosis, has received increasing attention as a novel target for cancer therapy, yet its role in OS cells remains obscure. Benzethonium chloride (BZN) is an FDA-approved antiseptic and bactericide with broad-spectrum anticancer effects. Here, we described that BZN suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, BZN repressed the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and the ERK1/2 activator partially neutralized the inhibitory effect of BZN on OS cells. Subsequently, we demonstrated that OS cells might employ macropinocytosis as a compensatory survival mechanism in response to BZN. Remarkably, macropinocytosis inhibitors enhanced the anti-OS effect of BZN in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our results suggest that BZN may inhibit OS cells by repressing the ERK1/2 signaling pathway and propose a potential strategy to enhance the BZN-induced inhibitory effect by suppressing macropinocytosis. Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary malignant tumor of bone. Chemotherapy is one of the crucial approaches to prevent its metastasis and improve prognosis. Despite continuous improvements in the clinical treatment of OS, tumor resistance and metastasis remain dominant clinical challenges. Macropinocytosis, a form of non-selective nutrient endocytosis, has received increasing attention as a novel target for cancer therapy, yet its role in OS cells remains obscure. Benzethonium chloride (BZN) is an FDA-approved antiseptic and bactericide with broad-spectrum anticancer effects. Here, we described that BZN suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells in vitro and in vivo, but simultaneously promoted the massive accumulation of cytoplasmic vacuoles as well. Mechanistically, BZN repressed the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and the ERK1/2 activator partially neutralized the inhibitory effect of BZN on OS cells. Subsequently, we demonstrated that vacuoles originated from macropinocytosis and indicated that OS cells might employ macropinocytosis as a compensatory survival mechanism in response to BZN. Remarkably, macropinocytosis inhibitors enhanced the anti-OS effect of BZN in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, our results suggest that BZN may inhibit OS cells by repressing the ERK1/2 signaling pathway and propose a potential strategy to enhance the BZN-induced inhibitory effect by suppressing macropinocytosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Determined the potential ecological risk index of Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Hg, Cd, and Cr. [•] Analyzed the spatial–temporal variation of structural and functional metrics for benthic communities. [•] Developed and compared the correlation relationship between benthic communities metrics and risk index. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlight: [•] Neonatal intrahippocampal LPS injection may serve as a potential schizophrenia animal model, which may be related with the microglia hypothesis of schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The application of the AQUATOX model was based on the pelagic and benthic foodweb. [•] Calibration, sensitivity analysis and ecological risk assessment were carried out. [•] The model can determine ecological protection levels of “chemicals of concern”. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have previously characterized several fungal-specific proteins from the human pathogen Candida albicans that either encode subunits of mitochondria Complex I ( CI) of the electron transport chain ( ETC) or regulate CI activity ( Goa1p). Herein, the role of energy production and cell wall gene expression is investigated in the mitochondria mutant goa1Δ. We show that downregulation of cell wall-encoding genes in the goa1Δ results in sensitivity to cell wall inhibitors such as Congo red and Calcofluor white, reduced phagocytosis by a macrophage cell line, reduced recognition by macrophage receptors, and decreased expression of cytokines such as IL-6, IL-10 and IFN-γ. In spite of the reduced recognition by macrophages, the goa1Δ is still killed to the same extent as control strains. We also demonstrate that expression of the epithelial cell receptors E-cadherin and EGFR is also reduced in the presence of goa1Δ. Together, our data demonstrate the importance of mitochondria in the expression of cell wall biomolecules and the interaction of C. albicans with innate immune and epithelial cells. Our underlying premise is thatmitochondrial proteins such as Goa1p and other fungal-specific mitochondrial proteins regulate critical functions in cell growth and in virulence. As such, they remain as valid drug targets for antifungal drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global buckling behaviour of hot-rolled stainless steel channel section beam–columns under combined compression and minor-axis bending moment has been studied based on testing and numerical modelling and reported in this paper. A testing programme was conducted on ten hot-rolled austenitic stainless steel channel section beam–columns, with five buckling towards webs and the other five buckling towards flange tips. This was followed by a numerical modelling programme, in which finite element models were firstly developed and validated against the test results and then used to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions, member effective lengths and loading combinations. The test and numerical results were adopted to assess the current design interaction curves given in the European code and American guide, both of which were found to result in inaccurate and scattered failure load predictions. The inaccuracy of the codified design interaction curves stems from the inaccurate end points (i.e. the member resistances under pure compression and pure bending) and the inappropriate shape. To address these shortcomings, a new design interaction curve was developed firstly through the adoption of more accurate end points and secondly through the derivation of a more proper shape. The proposed design interaction curve was shown to yield accurate and consistent failure load predictions for hot-rolled stainless steel channel section beam–columns. The reliability of the new proposal was also confirmed by means of statistical analyses. • The buckling behaviour of hot-rolled stainless steel channel section beam–columns is studied. • Ten beam–column tests were conducted. • FE models were firstly developed and validated against the test results and then adopted to perform parametric studies. • The codified design interaction curves were assessed, indicating inaccuracy. • A new design interaction curves was proposed, with the accuracy and reliability demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an experimental and numerical investigation into the cross-section behaviour and resistances of press-braked stainless steel channel sections under combined compression and major-axis bending moment. A testing programme was firstly conducted, including initial local geometric imperfection measurements and major-axis eccentric compression tests on ten press-braked stainless steel channel section stub column specimens. Following the testing programme, a numerical modelling programme was performed, where finite element models were developed and validated against the test results and then adopted to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions and initial loading eccentricities. Based on the obtained test and numerical data, the existing design interaction curves, as given in the European code, American specification and Australian/New Zealand standard, were assessed and shown to result in conservative cross-section resistance predictions for press-braked stainless steel channel sections under major-axis combined loading. The conservatism of the codified design interaction curves stems from the conservative end points (i.e. cross-section resistances under pure compression and pure bending), which are determined without considering the effect of material strain hardening, and the inefficient linear shape, which ignores the effect of stress redistribution. Improved design interaction curves were proposed through the adoption of (i) more accurate end points, which are calculated with a rational exploitation of material strain hardening by continuous strength method and (ii) more efficient nonlinear shape, which allows for the stress redistribution. The proposed design interaction curves were shown to result in substantially more accurate resistance predictions for press-braked stainless steel channel sections under major-axis combined loading than their codified counterparts. The reliability of the proposed design interaction curves was confirmed by means of statistical analyses. [Display omitted] • Press-braked stainless steel channel sections under combined loading were studied. • Ten major-axis eccentric compression tests were conducted. • FE models were developed and validated and then used to perform parametric studies. • The codified design interaction curves were assessed, revealing conservatism. • New design interaction curves were proposed and shown to yield higher accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three N -alkyl-pyridinium acetyl-sulfacetamide pharmaceutical salts were obtained. • The cationic alkyl chain length determines solvation, thermal and micellar behaviors. • Three salts have good thermal stability with the thermal decomposition temperature greater than 240 0C. • Rise in temperature and alkyl chain length of [C n Py]+ cations increases the V 2 , φ 0 values. • The cmc values of [C n Py][AceSA] decreases with the increase of the alkyl chain of [C n Py]+ cations. In the present work, three new pharmaceutical salts based on N -alkyl-pyridinium ([C n Py]+, n = 8, 10, 12) as the cations and acetyl-sulfacetamide ([AceSA]-) as an anion were synthesized. The thermal stability was measured by synchronous thermal analyzer. The solvation and micellization behaviors in aqueous solution were investigated by experimental density and conductivity data at different temperatures. These data were used to calculate the apparent molar volume at infinite dilution, V 2 , φ 0 , the apparent molar expansibility at infinite dilution, E φ 0 , limiting molar conductivity, Ʌ 0 , critical micelle concentration, cmc , and the relative thermodynamic functions for the micellization of [C n Py][AceSA] in aqueous solution. The effect of the aliphatic chain length of N -alkyl-pyridinium cation and temperature on the estimated properties was examined. The obtained results confirmed that [C n Py]+(n = 8, 10, 12) cations with longer alkyl chain exhibit higher decomposition temperature, large V 2 , φ 0 , low cmc and Ʌ 0 values. The results were discussed in terms of solute–solvent interactions and structural changes of [C n Py][AceSA] in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the main focus of immuno-oncology has been manipulating the adaptive immune system, tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are the main infiltrating component in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a critical role in cancer progression. TAMs are mainly divided into two different subtypes: macrophages with antitumor or killing activity are called M1 while tumor-promoting or healing macrophages are named M2. Therefore, controlling the polarization of TAMs is an important strategy for cancer treatment, but there is no particularly effective means to regulate the polarization process. Here, combined systems pharmacology targets and pathways analysis strategy, we uncovered Scutellariae Radix (SR) has the potential to regulate TAMs polarization to inhibit the growth of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Firstly, systems pharmacology approach was used to reveal the active components of SR targeting macrophages in TME through compound target prediction and target-microenvironment phenotypic association analysis. Secondly, in vitro experiment verified that WBB (wogonin, baicalein and baicalin), major active ingredients of SR are significantly related to macrophages and survival, initiated macrophages programming to M1-like macrophages to promoted the apoptosis of tumor cells. Finally, we evidenced that WBB effectively inhibited tumor growth in LLC (Lewis lung carcinoma) tumor-bearing mice and increased the infiltration of M1-type macrophages in TME. Overall, the systems pharmacology strategy offers a paradigm to understand the mechanism of polypharmacology of natural products targeting TME. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This work presents an integrated multilayer microfluidic device enabling raw sample pre-treatment and immunoassay based detection where a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-cellulose composite film was used to isolate plasma from raw samples based on the cross-flow principle. The PDMS-cellulose composite film was prepared by the dip-coating method and its morphologies were studied by the SEM technology and the bonding strength was quantified by atmospheric pressure experiments. The integrated microfluidic device was used to detect human immunoglobulin (IgG) in rat whole blood samples, with a quantified detection range of 0.5–5μg/mL and a correlation coefficient of 0.978. A raw urine sample was also tested by the integrated microfluidic device, producing a detection range of 0.6–25μg/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.969 for human IgG. This integrated microfluidic device may function as a platform technology, enabling on-site detection of raw clinical samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The temperature-cycled retrogradation conditions were optimized for producing slowly digestible starch (SDS) products in this study. The present data showed that the following conditions (temperature cycle, 4/25°C; temperature-cycled time, 14d; temperature-cycled time interval, 24h; and ratio of starch to water, 1:2) were available for increasing the SDS yield of the products. The maximum yield reached 54.5%, while the SDS products were prepared under the optimum conditions. The results also indicated that temperature-cycled retrogradation significantly increased the slow digestibility of the SDS products. This was probably attributed to many solid blocks remaining after the hydrolysis of the SDS products by the enzymes for 60min and 120min. The solid blocks may comprise of more imperfect crystallites and part of amorphous non-digestible starch. These results suggest that the optimum conditions obtained are suited for preparing SDS products in food and pharmaceutical industries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Acrylamide (AA) is known to be a neurotoxic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic compound. The presence of AA in foods causes public health concerns. In our previous study, we found that allicin can effectively reduce AA content in Maillard model system. However, there has been no report on whether allicin can reduce AA-induced toxicity in vitro and in vivo. In our present study, we evaluated the protective effect of allicin against AA-induced hepatocyte damage in cultured mouse primary hepatocytes and mouse liver. Our date suggested that allicin significantly decreased the levels of maleic dialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-desoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) both in vitro and in vivo study. Allicin also markedly increased the activity of total superoxide dismutase (SOD) and level of glutathione (GSH). The in vitro study revealed that 15μM allicin was the optimum concentration for inhibiting AA-induced hepatocyte damage. The in vivo study revealed that 20mg/kgb.w./day allicin was the optimum dose for inhibiting AA-induced hepatocyte damage. The protective effects of allicin against AA-induced hepatocyte damage may be due to its ability to scavenge free radicals and its effective recovery of the antioxidative defense system, and its ability to block the epoxidation process of AA to GA by inhibiting P450 enzyme. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Congenital melanocytic naevi (CMN) are known to be associated with mosaic NRAS or BRAF variants. However, the exact correlations of the allele load of mosaic variants in CMN with phenotypic characteristics have not been determined. Aim: To determine the correlation of variants allele load and different phenotypes of CMN. Methods: A panel of genes in the Ras/Raf/MAPK signalling pathway was selected for sequencing in 110 patients with CMN. Correlations between variant allele load and clinical phenotypes, including anatomical localization, projected adult size of the lesion, satellites, subcutaneous nodules, surface rugosity, colour variation and hypertrichosis, were analysed. Results: In addition to the predominant NRAS p.Q61R/K (61.8%) and BRAF p.V600E variants (10%) in patients, we also detected additional variants of NRAS (p.G13R and p.M72fs), BRAF (p.D22N) and MAP2K1 (p.I107fs, p.F209fs, p.Q354H and p.G91_L92insHDQARRLVGDLEHHKPSG). Furthermore, a higher allele load of NRAS p.Q61R/K was found in the trunk and limbs of CMN. It was also found in CMN with larger size, higher colour variation and more significant hypertrichosis, surface rugosity and asymmetry. Conclusion: We discovered more genetic variants of NRAS, BRAF and MAP2K1 and established a correlation between the allele load of NRAS p.Q61R/K and various phenotypes in CMN. The findings of this study potentially facilitate a more accurate and comprehensive classification of CMN in addition to the phenotypic or pathological characteristics used in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor phototheranostics holds a great promise on account of its high spatiotemporal resolution, tumor-specificity, and noninvasiveness. However, physical limitation of light penetration and "always on" properties of conventional photothermal-conversion agents usually cause difficulty in accurate diagnosis and completely elimination of tumor. Meanwhile, nanozymes mediated Fenton reactions can well utilize the tumor microenvironment (TME) to generate hydroxyl radicals for chemodynamic therapy (CDT), but limited by the concentration of H2O2 in TME and the delivery efficiency of nanozymes. To overcome these problems, a dual-targeting nanozyme (FTRNPs) is developed for tumor-specific in situ theranostics, based upon the assembling of ultrasmall Fe3O4 nanoparticles, 3,3',5,5'-tetrameth-ylbenzidine (TMB) and the RGD peptide. The FTRNPs after H2O2 treatment exhibits superior photothermal stability and high photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 50.9%). FTRNPs shows extraordinary accumulation and retention in the tumor site by biological/physical dual-targeting, which is 3.54-fold higher than that without active targeting. Cascade-dual-response to TME for nanozymes mediated Fenton reactions and TMB oxidation further improves the accuracy of both photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT). The tumor inhibition rate of photo-chemodynamic therapy is ~ 97.76%, which is ~ 4-fold higher than that of PTT or CDT only. Thus, the combination of CDT and PTT to construct "turn on" nanoplatform is of great significance to overcome their respective limitations. Considering its optimized "all-in-one" performance, this new nanoplatform is expected to provide an advanced theranostic strategy for the future treatment of cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumor phototheranostics holds a great promise on account of its high spatiotemporal resolution, tumor-specificity, and noninvasiveness. However, physical limitation of light penetration and "always on" properties of conventional photothermal-conversion agents usually cause difficulty in accurate diagnosis and completely elimination of tumor. Meanwhile, nanozymes mediated Fenton reactions can well utilize the tumor microenvironment (TME) to generate hydroxyl radicals for chemodynamic therapy (CDT), but limited by the concentration of H2O2 in TME and the delivery efficiency of nanozymes. To overcome these problems, a dual-targeting nanozyme (FTRNPs) is developed for tumor-specific in situ theranostics, based upon the assembling of ultrasmall Fe3O4 nanoparticles, 3,3',5,5'-tetrameth-ylbenzidine (TMB) and the RGD peptide. The FTRNPs after H2O2 treatment exhibits superior photothermal stability and high photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 50.9%). FTRNPs shows extraordinary accumulation and retention in the tumor site by biological/physical dual-targeting, which is 3.54-fold higher than that without active targeting. Cascade-dual-response to TME for nanozymes mediated Fenton reactions and TMB oxidation further improves the accuracy of both photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT). The tumor inhibition rate of photo-chemodynamic therapy is ~ 97.76%, which is ~ 4-fold higher than that of PTT or CDT only. Thus, the combination of CDT and PTT to construct "turn on" nanoplatform is of great significance to overcome their respective limitations. Considering its optimized "all-in-one" performance, this new nanoplatform is expected to provide an advanced theranostic strategy for the future treatment of cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The temperature-cycled retrogradation of rice starch used to prepare slowly digestible starch was investigated in this study. Our results showed that a maximum slowly digestible starch content of 51.62% was obtained from waxy rice starch at the optimal tested conditions: temperature cycles of 4/25°C, at intervals of 24h, and 7 days of storage. The results also indicated that there was a higher onset temperature (T o), a narrower melting temperature range (T c − T o), and a higher ratio (1047cm−1/1022cm−1) of the slowly digestible starch products prepared under the temperature-cycled condition than that under the isothermal retrogradation. Furthermore, it was evident that the in vitro glycemic index of slowly digestible starch products with temperature-cycled retrogradation was reduced more than that with isothermal storage. These results suggest that the temperature-cycled retrogradation is applicable to prepare the high yield of slowly digestible starch from waxy rice starch. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiFePO4/C with smaller particle size (0.3–0.6 μm) was synthesized via a two-step vacuum sintering method. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to detect the phases presented in the composites and observe sample morphology. In addition, AC electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, along with constant current discharge/charge tests, were used to characterize the electrochemical properties of the composites. It was shown that LiFePO4/C with a single olive crystal structure could deliver discharge capacity of 145.5 and 108.7 mAh g−1 at 0.5 and 6C for the fist cycle, and kept reversible capacity of 147.5 and 117.1 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hsa-miR-1587 has been found to be capable of forming G-quadruplex structures and is overexpressed in multiple cancer cell lines. Here, we explored the interactions between miR-1587 and proteins. HuProt™ human proteome microarray was utilized to screen the binding proteins, and it was discovered that CASK could bind to miR-1587 on the base of the G-quadruplex structure. Moreover, reelin and p21, which are downstream of CASK, were downregulated both transcriptionally and translationally by miR-1587, uncovered by q-RT-PCR and Western blot assays. Bioinformatic analysis was performed on STRING and Panther platforms, leading to the discovery that miR-1587 may be involved in intracellular metabolic and transcriptional physiological processes. This study explores the interaction of hsa-miR-1587 with proteins and provides a new strategy for the regulation of G-rich microRNA's function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an in-depth experimental and numerical investigation into the behaviour and resistances of press-braked stainless steel channel sections under combined compression and bending moment about the minor principal axis. The experimental programme adopted two press-braked stainless steel channel sections and included initial local geometric imperfection measurements and ten eccentrically loaded stub column tests. The loading eccentricity was varied to achieve a range of ratios of compression load to minor-axis bending moment. Two types of failure mode, namely 'C'-orientation failure (indicating that failure specimens bent towards the web) and 'reverse C'-orientation failure (signifying that failure specimens bent towards the flange tips), were observed upon testing. The experimental programme was followed by a numerical modelling programme; finite element models were developed and validated against the test results and then adopted to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data over a wide range of cross-section dimensions and initial loading eccentricities. The obtained test and numerical data were then adopted to assess the accuracy of the current codified design rules for press-braked stainless steel channel sections under combined compression and minor-axis bending, as given in the European code, American specification and Australian/New Zealand standard. The assessment results revealed that the codified design rules yield excessively conservative and scattered resistance predictions, owing to the neglect of the favourable material strain hardening of stainless steel and the beneficial stress redistribution within channel sections under combined loading. Improved design rules featuring more efficient interaction curves, anchored to more accurate end points (i.e. cross-section resistances under pure compression and pure bending), were then proposed. The new design proposals were shown to yield more accurate and consistent resistance predictions over the existing design rules. Statistical analyses were also conducted to confirm the reliability of the new design proposals. • The behaviour of press-braked stainless steel channel sections under minor-axis combined loading was studied. • Ten eccentrically loaded stub column tests were carried out about the minor principal axis. • FE models were developed and validated against the test results and then used to conduct parametric studies. • The codified design interaction curves were assessed based on the test and FE data, indicating inaccuracy. • New design interaction curves were proposed and shown to substantially improve the resistance predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (SPAN) has been comprehensively studied as a promising electrode material for sodium–sulfur batteries. However, problems such as low capacity and poor cycle stability still exist in room temperature sodium–sulfur batteries (RT-Na/S batteries). Here, a multi-channel sulfurized polyacrylonitrile (MSPAN) with hollow structure prepared by electrospinning technology was combined with polystyrene (PS) acting as a pore-forming agent, which not only provided a larger specific surface area and enlarged contact between electrode and electrolyte, but also limited the shuttling of polysulfides effectively, thereby improving the reversible specific capacity and rate performance of the electrodes. Through comparing the electrochemical performances of MSPAN on different current collectors, it was found that copper foil as the current collector favored the electrochemical performances of the materials. As a result, the MSPAN-2 used as the cathode for RT-Na/S batteries exhibited a high discharge specific capacity of 314.2 mAh g−1 at a current density of 2 ​A ​g−1. The fabrication of MSPAN provides a good example for improving the electrochemical performance of RT-Na/S batteries. [Display omitted] • The multi-channel sulfurized polyacrylonitrile with hollow structure can limit the shuttling of polysulfides effectively. • The porous structure of the material facilitates the electrolyte improves the electron and ion transmission efficiency. • The material exhibits better electrochemical performances when copper foil used as the current collector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residual stresses in Pt bottom electrodes for MEMS multilayer structures comprised of PZT thin films were investigated by measuring the changes in radius of wafer curvature. The Pt bottom electrodes were compressive under sputtering but changed to tension after the subsequent annealing of PZT film. This tension increased with the increase in the thickness of PZT film. Furthermore, when the PZT film was chemically etched the stresses in the Pt bottom electrodes decreased compared with after the first coating of PZT film. Therefore, the stresses in Pt bottom electrodes were changed due to the subsequent PZT coating. Thermal stress and other factors like lattice parameters, crystallite dimension and diffusion, are thought to contribute the change in the stresses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents a three-dimensional microfabrication and integration technology for MEMS smart materials that utilizes a spray coating method. Spray coating is shown to be most effective for additional deposition on non-planar surfaces. PZT films were formed both on flat and uneven surfaces at a thickness of about 1μ m. Perovskite structures were formed with suitable heat treatment and ferroelectric P-E hysteresis loop was also obtained. This paper is the first report from our group and other researchers on the deposition of smart materials for MEMS using a spray coating method. Spray coating has been proposed as an effective three-dimensional coating method which can be used to deposit piezoelectrics, pyroelectrics, magnetics, etc. for sensors and actuators. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties between the substrate surface and ejected liquid are most essential process factors in the spray coating method for improving the film growth conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thorough testing and numerical modelling programme has been conducted to investigate the minor-axis flexural buckling behaviour and resistances of pin-ended hot-rolled stainless steel channel section columns. The testing programme included material coupon tests, membrane residual stress measurements, initial global and local geometric imperfection measurements and ten pin-ended channel section column tests about the minor principal axis. A membrane residual stress predictive model was developed based on the measured data. The testing programme was followed by a numerical modelling programme; finite element models were developed to simulate the test results and then adopted to perform parametric studies to generate further numerical data on hot-rolled stainless steel channel section columns over a wide range of cross-section dimensions and member effective lengths. The obtained test and numerical data were then adopted to assess the accuracy of relevant design rules for hot-rolled stainless steel channel section columns failing by flexural buckling about the minor principal axis, as given in the European code and American design guide. The assessment results revealed that (i) the European code yields many unsafe flexural buckling resistance predictions and (ii) the American design guide yields overly conservative and scattered flexural buckling resistance predictions. Finally, a revised Eurocode buckling curve was proposed and shown to offer accurate, consistent and safe-sided flexural buckling resistance predictions for hot-rolled stainless steel channel section columns over the whole considered range of member non-dimensional slendernesses. The reliability of the revised Eurocode buckling curve was also confirmed using statistical analyses based on EN 1990. • Flexural buckling of hot-rolled stainless steel channel section columns was studied. • Ten pin-ended hot-rolled stainless steel channel section column tests were conducted. • Numerical modelling and parametric studies were conducted. • TThe accuracy of the relevant codified design rules was assessed. • A new improved design method was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The calculated works of MOFs are reviewed, especially for MOF adsorbents. • Calculation transit from single simulation, high-throughput computation to machine learning. • Machine learning-assisted computations to screen high-performance MOFs will become a new trend. Recently, the development and application of porous materials have attracted increasing attention, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have become "stars" in the emerging material field because of their high porosities and ultra-high specific surface areas. In this review, the calculated works of MOFs in this field in the past ten years were summarized, especially for MOF adsorbents. With the continuous growth of the number of adsorbent materials, simulations have gradually transitioned from the single simulation, high-throughput computational screening (HTCS) to machine-learning (ML)-assisted HTCS. The purpose of this paper is to sort out the research progress and current ideas for the adsorption simulations of MOFs. Finally, we highlight the bottlenecks and challenges for the future commercialization of HTCS based on ML and the ML-assisted HTCS methods that are suitable for solving the research problems in this field. We also speculate about the future development directions of this field, hoping to promote the practical application of porous adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsurface site characterization is essential for geotechnical engineering applications (e.g., slope stability analysis and deep excavation design), which is usually achieved through geotechnical site investigation and might be supplemented by geophysical survey. Geotechnical and geophysical investigations are complementary in many aspects. Geotechnical investigation provides direct measurement data with high accuracy but only at limited locations. On the other hand, geophysical survey provides abundant two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional measurements, but the data are often indirect. In addition, geotechnical and geophysical data are usually correlated. Therefore, fusion of geotechnical and geophysical data during site characterization is beneficial. This paper proposed a novel data fusion method, called multi-source Bayesian compressive sampling, for fusion of geotechnical and geophysical data and statistical characterization of 2D subsurface profiles. The proposed method is data-driven and non-parametric, without the need for an empirical parametric function between geotechnical and geophysical data. The proposed method was illustrated and validated using both numerical and real-life examples. The results show that the proposed method not only properly characterizes 2D subsurface profiles but also explicitly quantifies the statistical uncertainty associated with the site characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]