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The straightness of Paeonia lactiflora stems is pivotal for their use in cut flowers, often influenced by cellulose and other cell wall materials. Variances in auxin (IAA) content between straight and bending cultivars have been noted, yet the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we treated the bending cultivar 'Qi Hualushuang' with 150 mg·L−1 IAA across five developmental stages, examining morphological, anatomical, and cellulose metabolism-related changes. The results showed that exogenous IAA significantly improved stem straightness, plant height, and stem diameter. This improvement coincided with the early development of vascular tissue at the early and mid-stage of stem growth. IAA application down-regulated the expression of cellulose synthase genes, altering sucrose synthase and cellulase activities, ultimately resulting in higher cellulose content during the bud-breeding stage. Notably, an early accumulation of cellulose in vascular tissue was observed, characterized by earlier and more orderly arranged cellulose microfibrils, oriented at a smaller angle to the growth direction. This observation suggests that early cellulose development is advantageous for achieving stem straightness. Our study also found that the promotional effect of IAA on stem growth was mainly in the early stages, and other phytohormones may be jointly involved in the regulation. In summary, our study suggests that IAA enhances stem straightness by modulating the development of cell wall cellulose and vascular tissue. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the cultivation and trait improvement of P. lactiflora cut flower cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nestin is a type VI intermediate filament protein and a well-known neural stem cell marker. It is also expressed in high-grade cancer cells, forming copolymerized filaments with vimentin. We previously showed that nestin inhibits the binding of vimentin's tail domain to actin filaments (AFs) by steric hindrance through its large nestin tail domain (NTD), thereby increasing three-dimensional cytoskeleton network mobility, enhancing cell flexibility, and promoting cancer progression. Further, we found that nestin itself stably binds to AFs via the NTD. We therefore hypothesized that the NTD may form a flexible cytoskeletal structure by extending with weak force. In vitro tensile tests using atomic force microscopy were performed to assess the mechanical properties of NTDs. The C-terminus of the NTD bound AFs by bringing the AFM tip modified with the NTD into contact with the AFs on the substrate. NTDs were elongated to approximately 80% of their maximum length at weak forces < 150 pN. Repeated tensile tests revealed that the NTD refolded quickly and behaved like a soft elastic material. We speculate that nestin stably binds AFs, and the NTD extends with weak force, contracting quickly upon load release. Thereby, nestin would absorb mechanical load and maintain cytoskeletal integrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aging of asphalt binders is one of the major concerns of highway agencies as it can lead to premature distresses such as fatigue or thermal cracking, which reduces the durability of the asphalt pavements. The purpose of this study is to investigate the aging effect on the asphalt binder's multiscale mechanistic properties. In this study, macro-level Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) tests were done on the binder samples under different aging environments (unaged, short-term aged, and long-term aged). Additionally, Atomic Force Microscope (AFM)-based techniques were utilized to observe the aging effects on the mechanical properties of asphalt binders at the molecular level. Selected performance grade (PG) binders used in this study were collected from two different crude sources: Canadian (Source 1) and Arabian (Source 2), which were evaluated in the laboratory. As expected, the complex modulus increased due to aging, but the rate of aging was dissimilar between the two sources. The AFM test results showed that the microstructures are noticeably changed or reformed and resulting in increased roughness on the binder surface. The nano-level modulus and adhesion values were also found to be increased due to the aging of the asphalt binders. The findings of this study can help to better understand the effect of aging on the asphalt binder rheology and microscopic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel penetrating microwave infrared hot-air rolling-bed dryer for blanching and drying Pleurotus eryngii. We investigated the effects of different penetrating microwave blanching times (0–10 min) on the drying characteristics, physicochemical properties, moisture migration, polysaccharide structure, and microstructure of Pleurotus eryngii. The results showed that PMB significantly altered the enzyme activity, cell wall polysaccharide content, color attributes, texture attributes, drying kinetics, thermal properties, and antioxidant capacity of Pleurotus eryngii. Meanwhile, the PMB altered the moisture distribution and cellular structure of Pleurotus eryngii, reducing the drying time by 16.67–45.24%. Optimal blanching time was identified at 8 min, significantly enhancing total phenols, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) by 11.35%, 45.74%, and 23.68%, respectively, compared to unblanched samples. Microstructural analysis showed that the cellular structure underwent crumpling and cell wall polysaccharides underwent depolymerization and degradation, which altered the texture and drying characteristics of Pleurotus eryngii. This approach marks a great advancement in the edible mushroom processing and storage industry and promotes the development of high-value dried mushroom products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questioned document examination is one of the most challenging tasks in the field of forensic science. Examining the document without destroying its integrity is difficult in such cases. Microscopic examination is a noble and mostly non-destructive approach in document examination. It enables the examiner to visualize the evidence in the document, which would have been otherwise difficult with unaided eyes. The purpose of the study was to establish the importance of microscopic examination in document examination. A critical review of 60 years, from 1963 to 2023, of various research papers from different journals has been conducted. Applications of various microscopes including stereo microscopes, digital microscopes, scanning electron microscopes (SEM), and atomic force microscopes (AFM) were reviewed. Compared to the basic examinations performed before the year 2000, there was a remarkable evolution involving complex examinations with more precise results after the year 2000. Microscopy helped solve almost all kinds of problems involved in document examination. Among all microscopes, the stereo microscope was found to be a prominent tool in document laboratories. Certain limitations were also listed for microscopic examination over spectroscopic methods. However, microscopes have been the tool of choice for forensic document examiners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shear bands (SBs) play an important role in controlling plastic flow, identifying large shear strain, and detecting failure in metallic glass (MG). Interaction between individual SBs by a shearing or blocking mechanism remains an open question. In this study, we report insights into the mechanical behavior of shear bands using in situ Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) topography analysis, friction measurements and finite element (FE) simulations. These experiments are developed with notched Pd42.5Cu30Ni7.5P20, Zr65Ni10Cu15Al10, and Cu60Zr30Ti10 MG ribbons. By applying uniaxial loading tension, we find different distributions of the SB offsets arising in the notch root as a function of the strength of the stress field, and we also find that many pre-existing bands remain inactive. Numerical results based on the extension of a 2D FE model to a 3D model constructed with the Abaqus/implicit code provide details of the SBs interaction mechanisms. Blocking induces hardening through interaction. This hardening is revealed by 3D simulation and confirmed by AFM friction data. While the shearing mechanism works for interaction between SBs with similar compressive or tensile axial residual stress profiles, blocking arises from dissimilar axial residual stress profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver cells are the basic functional unit of the liver. However, repeated or sustained injury leads to structural disorders of liver lobules, proliferation of fibrous tissue and changes in structure, thus increasing scar tissue. Cellular fibrosis affects tissue stiffness, shear force, and other cellular mechanical forces. Mechanical force characteristics can serve as important indicators of cell damage and cirrhosis. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been widely used to study cell surface mechanics. However, characterization of the deep mechanical properties inside liver cells remains an underdeveloped field. In this work, cell nanoindentation was combined with finite element analysis to simulate and analyze the mechanical responses of liver cells at different depths in vitro and their internal responses and stress diffusion distributions after being subjected to normal stress. The sensitivities of the visco‐hyperelastic parameters of the finite element model to the effects of the peak force and equilibrium force were compared. The force curves of alcohol‐damaged liver cells at different depths were measured and compared with those of undamaged liver cells. The inverse analysis method was used to simulate the finite element model in vitro. Changes in the parameters of the cell model after injury were explored and analyzed, and their potential for characterizing hepatocellular injury and related treatments was evaluated. Research Highlights: This study aims to establish an in vitro hyperelastic model of liver cells and analyze the mechanical changes of cells in vitro.An analysis method combining finite element analysis model and nanoindentation was used to obtain the key parameters of the model.The multi‐depth mechanical differences and internal structural changes of injured liver cells were analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Petroleum Geology & Experiment is the property of Petroleum Geology & Experiment Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study of the structural and electrophysical properties of piezoelectrics is an important task for the creation of efficient piezoelectric nanogenerators designed to increase the autonomy of electronic devices. Barium titanate BaTiO3 is one of the promising materials for creating nanogenerators. Special sample preparation is required to study its properties. In this study, the results of studying the electrical properties of an individual BaTiO3 nanowire attached to the substrate surface using atomic force microscopy are presented. The BaTiO3 nanowires are formed by two-stage hydrothermal synthesis using titanium dioxide TiO2 as a precursor and sodium titanate as an intermediate compound. The surface morphology and phase composition of BaTiO3 nanowires are studied using a scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. A technique for fixing an individual BaTiO3 nanowire on a conductive substrate for studying the piezoelectric characteristics using an atomic force microscope (AFM) is presented. The BaTiO3 nanowires obtained have a tetragonal phase with the average length of ~14 μm and a diameter of 330 nm. The internal voltage of the nanowire is –0.45 V and the piezoelectric coefficient d33 is 5.2 pm/V. The resulting data confirm the possibility of applying BaTiO3 nanowires in nanogenerators and MEMS devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were produced directly from hemp agro-waste (HAW) using ammonium persulfate (APS) oxidation. Industrial hemp growth in the US has been accompanied with HAW production. While hemp has previously been shown as a source for CNCs, studies on CNCs from HAW (specifically hemp hurd) have not been reported on. Furthermore, studies on the mechanical characteristics of individual CNCs extracted using APS are lacking. Herein, the one-step oxidation treatment was followed by a purification step to remove impurities and hence to colloidally stabilize CNCs in aqueous suspensions, then analysis of the morphological and mechanical properties was performed. Purified and unpurified CNC samples were compared for potential differences in morphological and mechanical properties. Morphological analysis was performed using atomic force microscopy (AFM): purified CNCs had an average length of 183.1 ± 73.9 nm, unpurified CNCs had an average length of 202.0 ± 79.2, and both samples had an average diameter of 4 ± 2 nm. Mechanical analysis of individual CNCs using force-distance spectroscopy (FDS) suggested both samples had little differences with average values of Young's modulus 2.19 ± 0.15 GPa, maximum loading force of 6.29 ± 0.09 nN, and adhesion energy of 1.57 ± 1.12e-16 J. No statistical differences between purified and unpurified CNCs were found in Young's modulus and maximum loading forces measurements, suggesting the impurities had minimum impact on mechanical strength. These results highlight the potential for mechanical assessment of individual CNCs extracted using APS from HAW via FDS and the need for further exploration into the methodology of this type of mechanical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Radiation therapy is applied in the treatment of head and neck cancer patients. However, oral-health-related side effects like hyposalivation and a higher prevalence of caries have been shown. This study aims to assess the influence of different radiotherapy doses on the mechanical properties, roughness, superficial microstructure, and crystallinity of the enamel and dentin of human premolar teeth. Methods: Specimens (n = 25) were categorized into five groups based on the radiation dose received (0, 10, 30, 50, and 70 Gy). The enamel and dentin of these specimens were subjected to a microhardness tester, profilometer, atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‑ray diffraction (XRD) before and after different irradiation doses and compared to hydroxylapatite in each group. The data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Therapeutic radiation doses of 30, 50, and 70 Gy led to a decrease in the microhardness and an increase in the average roughness of the enamel, and rougher surfaces were observed in the mixed three-dimensional images. Moreover, in the dentin, a similar outcome could be observed for more than 10 Gy. The main crystalline phase structure remained hydroxylapatite, but the crystallinity decreased and the crystalline size increased above 10 Gy. The superficial micromorphology revealed granulation, fissures, and cracks in a dose-dependent manner. Radiation below 70 Gy had little effect on the hydroxylapatite concentration during the whole experiment. Conclusion: Above a radiation dose of 30 Gy, the micromorphology of the tooth enamel changed. This occurred for dentin above 10 Gy, which indicates that dentin is more sensitive to radiotherapy than enamel. The radiation dose had an effect on the micromorphology of the hard tissues of the teeth. These results illustrate the possible mechanism of radiation-related caries and have guiding significance for clinical radiotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pore structures and mechanical properties of coal are key parameters for geological evaluation of coalbed methane, reflecting its reservoir capacity and compressibility. The study investigated four coal samples from the Qinshui and Datong basins in Shanxi Province, including Jurassic coal from Datong (Ro=0.91%), No. 2 coal from the Shanxi Formation in Gujiao (Ro=1.34%), No. 8 coal of the Taiyuan Formation in Gujiao (Ro=1.70%), and No. 2 coal of the Shanxi Formation in Yicheng (Ro=1.77%). Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), a combined characterization technique was established for microscopic pore structure and mechanical properties based on image segmentation and Derjaguin-Muller-Toporov (DMT) mechanical model. This method clarified the microscopic pore structure and mechanical properties of coal samples and revealed the influence of material composition, pore structure, and thermal evolution level on their microscopic mechanical properties. The results showed that the surface porosity of coal samples mainly ranged from 2.72% to 4.60%, with an average of 3.58%. The total pore surface area and total pore volume were (3.413-5.638)×10-2 μm2/μm2 and (0.5-3.9)×10-4 μm3/μm2, respectively. The pore sizes were mainly distributed between 10-100 nm, and the Young's modulus ranged from 2.24 to 3.10 GPa, with an average of 2.77 GPa. The mechanical properties of coal were influenced by the material composition, pore structure, and thermal evolution level. As moisture decreased and volatile and mineral content increased, the Young's modulus showed an increasing trend. With an increase in surface roughness, mean pore size, porosity surface, specific surface area, and total pore volume, the Young's modulus decreased. As thermal evolution progressed, the Young's modulus decreased. AFM enables simultaneous analysis of microscopic pore structure and mechanical properties of coal, providing new methods and insights for studying reservoir capacity and mechanical behavior of coal reservoirs. It holds significant implications for the evaluation of reservoir capacity and compressibility in unconventional reservoirs.

Polymer-coated particles and surfaces have widespread applications in various industries ranging from manufacturing to biomedicine. A better understanding of the stability mechanisms underlying these coatings can inspire the design of novel polymer structures and help tune their functions. This can be achieved by quantifying the particle-particle and particle-surface interactions. This paper reviews several common experimental techniques utilized to measure the interactions between polymer-coated particles and surfaces quantitatively. These techniques include atomic force microscopy (AFM), total internal reflection microscopy (TIRM), optical tweezers (OT), and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D). The examples of each measuring technique were categorized based on the types of polymer coatings and their associated factors. Additionally, this review demonstrates experimental measurements of interactions involving biological objects. By understanding the fundamental particle-particle and particle-surface interactions, researchers can gain valuable insights to guide the design and functional optimization of polymer-based materials and systems across various applications.

This article aims to evaluate and compare two types of organic surface-modified-nanoclay of octadecylamine-modified-bentonite-nanoclay (ODA-BNC) and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-octadecylamine-modified-nanomontmorillonite (APS-ODA-MMT). Each type of nanoclay is combined with silica as a bi-filler for natural rubber (NR)/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) in a 50/50 blend ratio for possible vulcanized rubber nanocomposite application. The total filler content is 50 phr while nanoclay filler content ranges from 0 to 20 phr, keeping the other ingredients ratio fixed. The prepared composites are characterized by the Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) and their mechanical and thermal properties are thoroughly investigated. The data reveal that the fillers added to the rubber can improve its surface properties according to their type and amount as confirmed by the Atomic force microscope (AFM), and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigation. The surface of rubber containing APS-ODA-MMT displayed higher height (251) and roughness surface (94.11), than those (69.8) and (45.62) respectively, containing ODA-BNC. Moreover, the acid resistance of the prepared composites is verified and indicated that increasing the nanoclay ratio (20%) enhances the acid resistance by reducing the surface distortion while keeping the surface morphology. The mechanical properties and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) measurements showed that the rubber containing ODA-BNC has higher values of stress (2.2), elongation (975), and thermal stability (470, 505, 520°C) than those (1.75), (650), and (440, 460, 470°C) respectively, containing the APS-ODA-MMT. Moreover, the durability investigation of the vulcanized rubber via the AFM found the modified composites can be used in harsh environments as a covering layer in petrochemical networks or chemical factories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the mechanical properties of human annulus fibrosus obtained by forceps versus bistoury and observe whether the measurement could be affected by forceps sampling method. Methods: In this study, the mechanical properties of the the extracellular matrix (ECM) of human annulus fibrosus, including elastic modulus and stiffness, were investigated using atomic force microscope (AFM). Tissue was obtained from patients during operation using a bistoury or nucleus pulposus forceps. Tissues obtained with the nucleus pulposus forceps were considered as the forceps group and those obtained with a bistoury were considered as the bistoury group. Results: There was no significant difference observed between the forceps and bistoury group according to histological staining. The elastic modulus of the forceps group was 0.41 ± 0.08 MPa, and that of bistoury group was 0.53 ± 0.13 MPa, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The stiffness of the forceps group was 0.024 ± 0.003 N/m, and that of the bistoury group was 0.037 ± 0.003 N/m, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate that the forceps sampling method has a substantial negative effect on the micromechanical properties of the ECM of the annulus fibrosus. Bistoury sampling method is recommended as the experimental subject for exploring the micromechanics mechanisms of cervical degenerative disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, liver cancer ranks sixth among cancers and ranks fourth among the causes of death. Examining the condition of the body and early recognition of this disease can be effective in its control and treatment. Examining the mechanical profaties of the liver tissue and studying its Young's modulus will identify the health status of the tissue and the patient. In this research, Young's modulus has been theoretically calculated using slab friction models, reset integration, and Bleiman and Sorin models. Also, using atomic force microscope, this modulus has been extracted exfaimentally. Comparison of theoretical and exfaimental modules obtained will have similar results. According to the examination of texture and relationships at the nano level, the second model of Billman and Sorin is more accurate due to the smaller range of changes and the more complex equation. Therefore, it is suggested to use the second model of Billman and Sorin in future researches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Canadian Metallurgical Quarterly is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The effect of 2MeV energy electrons with fluences from 0.5×1017 to 4.0×1017 electron/cm2 on the crystal structure, surface morphology, absorption spectrum, band gap, Raman spectrum and microhardness of ZnS crystal was investigated. The crystal structure of ZnS is face-centered cubic with space group F-43m. Upon irradiation with a fluence of 4×1017 electron/cm2, the unit cell parameter decreased by 0.0195Å, and the coordinates of the Zn+2 ions were changed. Irradiation with fluences ranging from 0.5×1017 to 4×1017 electron/cm2 increased crystallite size from 20nm to 28nm. The study of the surface morphology of the ZnS single-crystal revealed that irradiation caused a reduction in both the width (Ra) and height (Rz) of the surface roughness. The band gap of the ZnS single-crystal decreased from 3.521 to 3.506eV when irradiated with fluence electrons from 0.5×1017 to 2.5×1017electron/cm2. Raman spectrum observations showed an increase in the longitudinal optical (LO) mode peak (350cm−1) intensity following the irradiation of ZnS single-crystal with electrons. The microhardness of the ZnS single-crystal showed an exponential increase by 20% when irradiated with fluences from 0.5×1017 to 2.5×1017electron/cm2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goal of this study is to elucidate the structural and electrical characteristics, alongside potential applications, of ceramic-polymeric composites. These composites are achieved by incorporating lithium-lanthanum titanates (Li 3x La 2/3−x TiO 3 - LLTO) into a polyvinyl alcohol polymeric matrix (PVA). The synthesis of lithium-lanthanum titanates occurred through high-energy ball milling method. Then, three types of composites were produced using the solvent casting method: a sample of pure Poly (vinyl alcohol) polymer (PVA), a second PVA composite with the addition of La 0 · 59 Li 0 · 24 TiO 3 (Li-0.24) and a third sample with La0· 56 Li 0 · 33 TiO 3 (Li-0.33). SEM and AFM analyzes revealed notable changes in the morphology and 3D spatial patterns of the films upon incorporating lithium-lanthanum titanates into the PVA matrix. The PVA film presents a topography featuring a more evenly distributed range of topographic heights, indicating a smoother surface structure. With varying LLTO content, the morphology of the PVA composite underwent changes. The lower roughness of the PVA surface is evident from its measured average roughness value (Ra = 1.9 ± 0.5 nm). Upon incorporating LLTO, the surfaces displayed increased roughness, measuring specifically at 40.1 ± 7.3 nm (Li-0.24) and 22.7 ± 5.5 nm (Li-0.33). Notably, there was an approximately 43 % reduction in the average roughness value from Li-0.24 to Li-0.33. The analysis by Raman allowed the identification of functional groups of the PVA polymeric chain, in addition to the presence of some vibrational modes related to the structure of lithium-lanthanum titanates for the sample with the highest content of Li+ ions (Li-0.33). Finally, the sample Li-0.33 showed the lowest value of electrical resistance (67 kΩ) and of phase angle (16°), compared to the PVA (100 MΩ and 90°). These results show that the presence of the LLTO changed the insulating behavior of the PVA matrix changed and improved potential to electronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a chronic lymphocytic skin disease manifested by progressive scarring alopecia. The diagnosis of LPP is made based on histopathological examination, although it is not always definite. The current study evaluates the effectiveness of non‐invasive atomic force microscopy (AFM) hair examination in detecting morphological differences between healthy and diseased hair. Materials and methods: Here, three to five hairs from lesional skin of 10 LPP patients were collected and examined at nine locations using AFM. At least four images were taken at each of the nine sites. Metric measurements were taken and metric (length, width, and scale step height) and morphological features (striated and smooth surface of scales, the presence of endocuticle and cortex, shape of scales edges, scratches, pitting, cracks, globules, and wavy edge) were compared with hair from healthy controls. In addition, areas on diseased hair where the process of pathological, unnatural delamination of the hair fiber occurs are described. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the number of scratches in the initial sections of the LPP hair, in the intensity of wavy edges along the entire length of the tested hair, and in the number of scales with pitting in the middle section of the hair. In addition, a statistically significant higher number of scales with striated surface was found in LPP group starting at 3.5 cm from the root continuing towards the free end of the hair. Other morphological changes such as presence of cortex, globules, oval indentations, and rod‐like macrofibrillar elements were also assessed, however, detailed results are not presented, as the differences shown in the number of these morphological changes were not significantly different. Conclusion: This publication outlines the differences between virgin, healthy Caucasian hair, and the hair of LPP patients. The results of this study can be used for further research and work related to LPP. This is the first attempt to characterize the hair of LPP patients using AFM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of aging on the microstructure, mechanical behavior, and thermal performance of bitumen surfaces, this study utilizes atomic force microscopy (AFM) for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the surface morphology, roughness, and surface energy evolution at the microscopic scale during the fusion process of both virgin and aged bitumen. The formation mechanism of beelike structures is also analyzed. Additionally, the thermal stability of bitumen is evaluated through thermogravimetric (TG) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) curves. Results revealed substantial differences in polarity and structure between asphaltene and surrounding bitumen molecules, leading to ineffective dissolution and dispersion of asphaltene in surrounding bitumen molecules, ultimately forming distinct striped beelike structures. With an increase in the content of virgin bitumen, the quantity and total area of beelike structures significantly increase, whereas their size and average area decrease. Aging induces the migration and alteration of bitumen internal components, resulting in the aggregation, dispersion, and fusion of biomass on the microsurface, thereby increasing surface roughness and decreasing surface energy. With the introduction of virgin bitumen and rejuvenators, bitumen surface roughness markedly decreases, whereas surface energy exhibits an increasing trend. This suggests that the microstructural properties of rejuvenated bitumen are effectively restored, with high fusion homogeneity between virgin and aged bitumen. Thermal analysis results indicate that the characteristic temperature and residual weight of rejuvenated bitumen are lower than aged bitumen, approaching the virgin bitumen. Specifically, the residual weight for virgin bitumen, aged bitumen, and rejuvenated bitumen are 17.23%, 22.03%, and 17.65%, respectively. This suggests that the introduction of rejuvenators increases the content of light components in bitumen, leading to a lower thermal decomposition temperature due to the volatilization of light components during heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology / Zhongguo Shipin Xuebao is the property of Journal of Chinese Institute of Food Science & Technology Periodical Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

We investigated the conditions under which extremely thin films of CuCl are formed by molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE) on Si substrates, which are expected to grow epitaxially due to the small lattice mismatch of 0.44% with CuCl. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) observations of samples fabricated under various growth conditions revealed that the lower the substrate temperature, the thinner films could be formed. Experimental results also showed that suppression of the sublimation effect is effective for thinner film formation in CuCl, which has a low melting point, and a thin film of around 10 atomic layers is successfully fabricated by growth with the lowest substrate temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Micronanoelectronic Technology is the property of Micronanoelectronic Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Direct composite restorations face abrupt temperature changes, varying pH, and surface deterioration in the oral environment. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides visual and numerical data on surface roughness. Aim: This study evaluates and compares the surface roughness of composite restorative materials after simulating oral conditions. Materials and Methods: Three composite groups (n = 16 each) were tested. Group A: Microhybrid, Group B: Nanofilled, and Group C: Nanohybrid. Each group was divided into four subgroups (n = 4 each): distilled water (control), black coffee, Coca-Cola, and Red Bull. After thermocycling and immersion, surface roughness was measured using AFM. Results: Nanocomposites with uniform monomodal fillers showed the least surface disintegration and superior properties. Conclusion: Resin chemistry, including filler size and matrix composition, is crucial for composite properties and performance under function.

ABSTRACT: Background: Direct composite restorations face abrupt temperature changes, varying pH, and surface deterioration in the oral environment. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) provides visual and numerical data on surface roughness. Aim: This study evaluates and compares the surface roughness of composite restorative materials after simulating oral conditions. Materials and Methods: Three composite groups (n = 16 each) were tested. Group A: Microhybrid, Group B: Nanofilled, and Group C: Nanohybrid. Each group was divided into four subgroups (n = 4 each): distilled water (control), black coffee, Coca-Cola, and Red Bull. After thermocycling and immersion, surface roughness was measured using AFM. Results: Nanocomposites with uniform monomodal fillers showed the least surface disintegration and superior properties. Conclusion: Resin chemistry, including filler size and matrix composition, is crucial for composite properties and performance under function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As the world moves toward a green economy and sustainable agriculture, bacterial viruses or bacteriophages (phages) become attractive biocontrol agents for controlling crop diseases. Effective utilization of phages in farms requires integrated knowledge of crops, pathogens, phages, and surroundings. Phages must encounter environmental fluctuations, including temperature, and must remain infectious for successful bacteria lysis. This work studied a soilborne RSJ2 phage discovered in Thailand, which can eliminate Ralstonia solanacearum, causing bacterial wilt disease in chili. We investigated how phage infectivity and nanomechanics responded to thermal changes. The plaque-based assay showed that the infectivity of the RSJ2 phage was stable within 24–40 °C, an average temperature fluctuation in tropical regions. The structural examination also showed that the phage remained intact. The nanomechanical property of the phage was inspected by the atomic force microscopy-based nanoindentation. The result revealed that the phage stiffness within 24–40 °C was statistically similar (0.05–0.06 N/m). Upon heating at 40 °C for 1, 5, and 10 h and resting at 25 °C, the stiffness of the phage particles increased to 0.09–0.11 N/m (54–83% increase). The stiffness results suggest structural adaptation of the protein subunits as a response to thermal alteration. The study exhibits that the phage structure is highly dynamic and can nanomechanically respond to varying temperatures. The phage stiffness may reveal insight into phage adaptation to environmental factors. Equipped with the knowledge of phage infectivity, structure, and nanomechanics, we can design practical guidelines for effective phage usage in farming and propelling green and safe agriculture.

Abstract Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has intrinsic tip-sample convolution artifacts. Commercially available tip-check samples are used to obtain only the tip radius, which can be used to deconvolute surface profiles or to quantify tip wear by relying on AFM alone. When the sample height is of the order of 100 nm or more, not only the tip radius but also the overall tip shape plays a key role in imaging. Therefore, it is necessary to know the overall tip shape, which requires a structured sample that is much larger than tip-check samples. Here, we propose to use deep reactive ion-etched holes of 1 µ diameter and 5 µ height to reconstruct the overall tip shape of three different AFM probes, namely conical, pyramidal and tetrahedral. The proposed cylindrical hole structure seems promising, as simple inversion of AFM images can provide sufficient collective features to be used for deconvolution and image enhancement.

Abstract The surface micromorphology and roughening of the thermal evaporation-coated FTO/ZnS bilayer thin films annealed at 300, 400, 500, and $$550\,^\circ{\text{C}}$$ 550 ∘ C for 1 h have been studied. AFM images of the prepared samples were analysed by the MountainsMap software, and the effects of the annealing temperature on the surface texture of the FTO/ZnS thin film’s surface were investigated. Stereometric and advanced fractal analyses showed that the sample annealed at $$500\,^\circ{\text{C}}$$ 500 ∘ C exhibited greater surface roughness and greater skewness and kurtosis. This film also has the most isotropic surface and exhibits the highest degree of heterogeneity. Also, despite the decrease in surface roughness with increasing temperature from 500 to $$550 \,^\circ{\text{C}}$$ 550 ∘ C , the fractal dimension tends to increase. The static water contact angle measurements indicate that the film annealed at $$500 \,^\circ{\text{C}}$$ 500 ∘ C exhibits higher hydrophobicity, which can be attributed to its greater topographic roughness. Our research indicates that the surface morphology of FTO/ZnS bilayer thin films is influenced by the annealing temperature. Changing factors such as roughness, fractality, and wettability parameters to help improve surface performance make the FTO/ZnS bilayer suitable for application in electronic and solar systems.

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has intrinsic tip-sample convolution artifacts. Commercially available tip-check samples are used to obtain only the tip radius, which can be used to deconvolute surface profiles or to quantify tip wear by relying on AFM alone. When the sample height is of the order of 100 nm or more, not only the tip radius but also the overall tip shape plays a key role in imaging. Therefore, it is necessary to know the overall tip shape, which requires a structured sample that is much larger than tip-check samples. Here, we propose to use deep reactive ion-etched holes of 1 µ diameter and 5 µ height to reconstruct the overall tip shape of three different AFM probes, namely conical, pyramidal and tetrahedral. The proposed cylindrical hole structure seems promising, as simple inversion of AFM images can provide sufficient collective features to be used for deconvolution and image enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the world moves toward a green economy and sustainable agriculture, bacterial viruses or bacteriophages (phages) become attractive biocontrol agents for controlling crop diseases. Effective utilization of phages in farms requires integrated knowledge of crops, pathogens, phages, and surroundings. Phages must encounter environmental fluctuations, including temperature, and must remain infectious for successful bacteria lysis. This work studied a soilborne RSJ2 phage discovered in Thailand, which can eliminate Ralstonia solanacearum, causing bacterial wilt disease in chili. We investigated how phage infectivity and nanomechanics responded to thermal changes. The plaque-based assay showed that the infectivity of the RSJ2 phage was stable within 24–40 °C, an average temperature fluctuation in tropical regions. The structural examination also showed that the phage remained intact. The nanomechanical property of the phage was inspected by the atomic force microscopy-based nanoindentation. The result revealed that the phage stiffness within 24–40 °C was statistically similar (0.05–0.06 N/m). Upon heating at 40 °C for 1, 5, and 10 h and resting at 25 °C, the stiffness of the phage particles increased to 0.09–0.11 N/m (54–83% increase). The stiffness results suggest structural adaptation of the protein subunits as a response to thermal alteration. The study exhibits that the phage structure is highly dynamic and can nanomechanically respond to varying temperatures. The phage stiffness may reveal insight into phage adaptation to environmental factors. Equipped with the knowledge of phage infectivity, structure, and nanomechanics, we can design practical guidelines for effective phage usage in farming and propelling green and safe agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, the mechanical properties of normal and carcinomatous cells of kidney tissue (HEK‐293, ACHN, respectively) were investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Initially, the elastic modulus of ACHN cells was measured following chemotherapy with the anti‐cancer drug Cisplatin and plasma treatment. The MTT assay was employed to ascertain the most effective dosages for incubation periods of 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h, guided by the IC50 concentration for cell viability during chemotherapy treatment. Analysis at these specified time points revealed a progressive increase in the elastic modulus of ACHN cells when subjected to Cisplatin‐based chemotherapy. Specifically, the elastic modulus increased by 1.847, 4.416, 6.035, 8.029, and 9.727 times in comparison to untreated cells at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h, respectively. ACHN cells were subsequently treated with plasma for 30 and 60 s for 24 and 48‐h incubation periods. The plasma treatment increased the ACHN cell's elastic modulus. In the subsequent phase of the research, a combination of theoretical (finite element method [FEM]) and experimental methodologies was employed to investigate the resonant frequencies and magnitude of the frequency response function (FRF) concerning the movement of the AFM cantilever. This examination was conducted using ACHN cells as specimens, both before and after exposure to chemotherapy and plasma treatments. The results showed that higher sample elastic modulus increased the resonant frequency, indicating that treated cells had a higher resonant frequency than untreated cells. In conclusion, the FEM and experimental results were compared and found to be in good agreement. Highlights: Using Cisplatin anti‐cancer drug increases the elastic modulus of ACHN cell.Applying plasma treatment increases the elastic modulus of ACHN cell.For both of the chemo and plasma therapies, increasing the incubation time increases the influence of therapies oh the cell mechanics.Using finite element modeling (FEM) the real dynamic behavior of atomic force microscope cantilever by considering human kidney cells as the soft samples is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper, permalloy, cobalt, and silicon are the materials that have been widely utilised in magnetic devices. When the size of interest is down to the nanoscale, the inter-diffusion between certain materials becomes influential. This paper studies the nanoscale friction characteristics between frictional pairs with and without inter-diffusion properties through the atomic force microscope. The distinct evolution features of nanoscale friction force when inter-diffusion is involved are discovered experimentally, which is also confirmed through theoretical analysis. Firstly, through the thin film deposition method, four pairs of contact materials (Cu–Ni81Fe19, Si–Ni81Fe19, Cu–Co, Cu–Si) are designed for friction tests, in which diffusion occurs at the interface of Cu–Ni81Fe19 pair. Then, the effects of sliding velocity and loading force on the nano friction of each pair are measured. It is found that regardless of the diffusion phenomenon: (1) the adhesion force values exhibit a notable correlation to the values of the friction force; (2) the friction force in all four material pairs consistently increases with the growth of the normal loading force, although the growth rate may differ. In terms of the sliding velocity effect, the friction forces of immiscible materials (Si–Ni81Fe19, Cu–Co, and Cu–Si) are found to increase with the increasing sliding velocity. However, the friction force of Cu–Ni81Fe19, decreases with the increasing sliding velocity. Furthermore, a compositive friction model considering both the velocity and the normal force effect was proposed, which shows good agreement with the experimental results and explains the nano friction behaviour of both miscible and immiscible metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]