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To improve response rate of monotherapy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), it is necessary to find an emerging target in combination therapy. Through analyzing tumor microenvironment (TME)-related indicators, it is validated that BCAT2 shapes a noninflamed TME in bladder cancer. The outcomes of multiomics indicate that BCAT2 has an inhibitory effect on cytotoxic lymphocyte recruitment by restraining activities of proinflammatory cytokine/chemokine-related pathways and T-cell-chemotaxis pathway. Immunoassays reveal that secretion of CD8+T-cell-related chemokines keeps a robust negative correlation with BCAT2, generating a decreasing tendency of CD8+T cells around BCAT2+ tumor cells from far to near. Cotreatment of BCAT2 deficiency and anti-PD-1 antibody has a synergistic effect in vivo, implying the potential of BCAT2 in combination therapy. Moreover, the value of BCAT2 in predicting efficacy of immunotherapy is validated in multiple immunotherapy cohorts. Together, as a key molecule in TME, BCAT2 is an emerging target in combination with ICB and a biomarker of guiding precision therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu/Si composite are ideal electronic packaging materials, but the intense formation of Cu-Si intermetallics during preparation leads to a significant decrease in their plasticity and thermal conductivity. In this paper, a W layer was formed on Si particles using the sol-gel method, and Cu/Si composites were prepared by hot pressing. The results show that the maximum thickness of the W layer is 1.64 μm, and the minimum thickness is only 809 nm. The W layer acts as a diffusion barrier, effectively inhibiting the Cu-Si interfacial reaction and intermetallics formation, thus preventing the deterioration of matrix and reinforcement properties. Compared with the Cu/Si composite, the elongation of the Cu/Si@W composite improves from 0.2 % to 1.7 %, and the thermal conductivity increases by 7 times to 233.9 W/(m·K). Additionally, among the four samples, the Cu/Si@W composite has the lowest coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). The W layer enhances the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity while reducing the CTE of Cu/Si composite for improved electronic packaging application. • The W layer on Si particles acts as a diffusion barrier to suppress the interfacial reaction significantly. • Clear dimples are observed in the Cu/Si@W composite, whose ductility is 8 times higher than that of the Cu/Si composite. • The thermal conductivity of the Cu/Si@W composite reaches 233.9 W/(m·K), which is improved by 7 times compared with that of the Cu/Si composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical coprecipitation technique is proven to be a beneficial method to prepare uniformly mixed catalyst metal and Kraft lignin precursors. Coprecipitation is a simple, yet very complex process which is highly sensitive to the reaction conditions, particularly temperature. In an exothermic coprecipitation process, the reaction rate can become uncontrollable over certain temperatures which could lead to a thermal runaway reaction. In this work, metal-lignin nanocomposites were synthesized by coprecipitation of metal (M) salts and Kraft lignin. Kraft lignin and metal salts were dissolved in organic solvents and DI water, respectively, to make lignin solution/suspension and metal salt aqueous solution. The aqueous solutions of metal salts were then added to the lignin solutions/suspensions and mixed well, resulting in chelation of transition metal ions to the functional groups of lignin chains and co-precipitation of metal-lignin composites from the solvents. To develop a safe process for producing M-lignin composites in a large volume, potential reactions, exothermic or endothermic processes, hazards gases, and volatiles were evaluated during the coprecipitation process. The effects of transition metal type, solvent selection, concentration of metal salts, and initial solution temperature on the interactions between metal ions and Kraft lignin, metal uniformity in the lignin matrix, and morphology of the metal-lignin composites were investigated during the coprecipitation process. Cu, Mo, Ni, and Fe were investigated as the transition metals for the metal-lignin composites. Fenton or Fenton-like reactions were discovered to occur during the Fe- and Cu-lignin coprecipitation process and tremendous heat evolved, which lead to the overshoot of the reaction system temperature in a very short time (i.e. a few seconds). Significant amounts of CO2 and toxic NO2 gasses were released during the coprecipitation process when Fenton or Fenton-like reactions occurred. No interaction or a very weak interaction occurred between lignin and Mo(VI) ions when mixing both solutions. Ni ions were coordinated strongly to oxygen-containing functional groups in lignin, but no Fenton or Fenton-like reaction was detected during Ni-lignin coprecipitation. Fenton reaction or Fenton-like reaction occurred when tetrahydrofuran (THF) and acetone were used to dissolve Kraft lignin, and the reaction became highly fierce and unmanageable with increasing of iron content in the composite. The reaction initialization time was shortened with increase of initial solution temperature and thermal runaway reaction might occur if the initial mixing temperature reached 60 °C or above. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu/Si p composite is an ideal material for electronic packaging due to its excellent properties. However, the Cu–Si intermetallics formed by Cu and Si interfacial reaction seriously deteriorate the ductility and thermal conductivity of the composite. In this paper, Si particles were coated with W layer by sol-gel method to inhibit the formation of intermetallics, and the deposition details of the W layer were investigated. The Si particles need to be pre-treated first, such as decontaminating and roughening, to facilitate subsequent deposition. A uniform WO 3 · n H 2 O layer forms on the Si particles, which transforms into W particles or particle aggregates after reduction at 900 °C for 30 min. After re-coating for three times, a complete W coating forms on the Si particles with a theoretical thickness of 0.91 μm. With the increase of the integrity of W coating, the content of Cu–Si intermetallics decreases and ductility of Cu/Si p composites increases. In addition, the W coating on Si particles remains stable at 700 °C, which is an effective route to prepare Cu/Si p composites for electronic packaging. [Display omitted] • A W layer on the surface of Si particles was prepared by sol-gel method. • The W coating inhibits the interfacial reaction between Cu–Si as diffusion barrier. • With the suppression of Cu–Si reaction, plasticity of the Cu/Si p composites is significantly increased. • The W coating is stable at 700 °C, and clear two-phase interface is observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand to achieve better performance of electronic packaging materials owing to the development of modern electronics industry. In this work, the effects of elemental Mg addition on microstructural characteristics, mechanical properties, and thermo-physical properties of Al–50Si alloys were investigated. The tensile strength, bending strength, and hardness are improved significantly when the Mg content increases from 0% to 1%, but decreases as the content exceeds 1%. The enhanced strength is mainly attributed to the presence of small bar-like Mg 2 Si phase located at the interface. However, the extensive growth of Si phase in the high Mg contained alloys reduce the mechanical properties. The thermal conductivity and thermal expansion coefficient decrease gradually with the increase in the Mg content. Compared with the addition of Cu, minor amount of Mg addition (0.5%) can effectively increase the strength of Al–50Si alloys without substantially sacrificing the thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand to achieve better performance of electronic packaging materials owing to the development of modern electronics industry. In this work, the effects of elemental Mg addition on microstructural characteristics, mechanical properties, and thermo-physical properties of Al–50Si alloys were investigated. The tensile strength, bending strength, and hardness are improved significantly when the Mg content increases from 0% to 1%, but decreases as the content exceeds 1%. The enhanced strength is mainly attributed to the presence of small bar-like Mg 2 Si phase located at the interface. However, the extensive growth of Si phase in the high Mg contained alloys reduce the mechanical properties. The thermal conductivity and thermal expansion coefficient decrease gradually with the increase in the Mg content. Compared with the addition of Cu, minor amount of Mg addition (0.5%) can effectively increase the strength of Al–50Si alloys without substantially sacrificing the thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to be associated with a greater prevalence of anemia in various healthy and diseased populations by a great deal of observational studies. However, less work has been done to explore this association in pregnant women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between maternal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and risk of gestational anemia in a large, nested case-control study. Methods: The serum 25(OH)D concentrations was measured by enzyme immunoassay in 775 pregnant women affected with anemia and 1550 controls. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association of 25(OH)D concentrations with risk of gestational anemia. Results: We found the 25(OH)D concentrations was significantly lower in women affected with anemia than in controls. Logistic regression analyses showed that women with 25(OH)D concentrations < 25.0 nmol/L, from 25.0 to 37.4 nmol/L and from 37.5 to 49.9 nmol/L all had increased risk of anemia when compared with women with concentrations from 50.0 to 74.9 nmol/L. And the risk of anemia was significantly increased with the decreasing concentrations of the serum 25(OH)D in a dose-dependent manner (P for trend = 0.012). For women with concentrations < 50.0 nmol/L, they had an 80% increase in anemia risk (95% CI = 1.45-2.25) after adjustment for confounders. We also observed a nonlinear relationship between the serum 25(OH)D and anemia, with a threshold for 25(OH)D of 50.0 nmol/L existed for anemia. Conclusion: Maternal serum 25(OH)D < 50.0 nmol/L may be a risk factor for gestational anemia, and it should be monitored for the high-risk pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of fluoxetine (Flu) against cigarette smoke (CS)-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rats. Forty male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to five groups: control group, CS group, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) group, and flu (2 mg/kg). H&E staining demonstrated that Flu inhibited CS-induced pathological injury. In addition, Flu could restore the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum. Flu also inhibited the levels of cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Furthermore, flu significantly inhibited the protein levels of TLR/NF-κB and apoptosis pathway in CS-induced rats. Our findings suggested that flu might effectively ameliorate the progression of COPD via inflammation and apoptosis pathway in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al/50 vol% diamond composites are fabricated by hot pressing with the assistance of partial liquid phase for favoring densification through the addition of elemental copper. Copper is introduced by pure powder and secondary deposited coating (a tungsten based layer is coated directly on the surface of diamond particles), respectively. The results show that density, bending strength and thermal conductivity of Al/diamond composites are improved when the liquid phase forms homogeneously in the matrix. As copper powder is added, the liquid phase spreads through the particle boundaries under the applied press during sintering, finally fills the interfaces and voids. While as copper coating is conducted, a better densification capacity and more enhanced properties of the composites are received. Moreover, a theoretical model is proposed to estimate the effect of different copper addition routes on thermal conductivity of the composites, and the results show a good agreement with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum (Al)-based composites reinforced with 50 wt.% silicon (Si) were prepared by liquid phase hot pressing. Elemental copper (Cu) powder was mechanically mixed with gas-atomized Al Si alloy powder to form partial liquid phase during sintering, and its effect on densification, microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated. The results indicate that the amount of precipitated Al 2 Cu (θ) phase increases gradually as the Cu content increases from 0 to 2 wt.%. Accordingly, it promotes solid solution hardening along with precipitation hardening, and leading to an enhancement of mechanical properties. However, the presence of too much brittle Al 2 Cu phase and large Si phase caused by Si Si clustering in the Al-4 wt.%Cu/Sip composite debase the mechanical properties remarkably. Cu addition reduces the melting point and results in the formation of Al 2 Cu phase, thus reducing the consolidation temperature and enhancing the strength of Al matrix. Therefore, the addition of minor elemental Cu powder is an effective approach to promote the preparation and the performance of Al/Sip composites by powder metallurgy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gas-atomized Al-Si alloy powder with different particle sizes was subjected to isothermal annealing for understanding the effect of solidification rate on precipitation and growth Si crystals. The results show that Si precipitates grew more quickly in the small samples with a large solidification rate due to high interfacial energy. Moreover, these Si crystals had a tendency to form a quasi-spherical shape after annealing at a low temperature or for a short holding time. Coarsening of the Si precipitates during annealing was examined using a LSW equation. Thermal stability of the rapidly solidified alloy was significantly influenced by its original microstructure as a result of high solidification rate. Furthermore, more serious clustering of Si-Si phase was also observed in the small samples, attributed to the rapid coarsening of the Si phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al/(35–60) vol.% diamond composites are prepared by hot pressing, and the microstructures, thermal conductivity, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) are characterized considering the tungsten coating and the volume fraction of diamond. The results show that diamond particles distribute quite uniform in Al matrix without formation of Al 4 C 3 phase at the interface. Although the tungsten coating effectively improves the interface bonding between the diamond and matrix, relative densities decrease with increasing diamond fraction. The thermal conductivity of W-coated specimens containing 35–50 vol.% of diamond are about 90% of the theoretical values, but it decreases with further increasing diamond fraction due to the existence of higher porosity. However, most of the thermal conductivity of uncoated specimens are less than 90% of the calculated ones. CTE of the composites is found to decrease as the diamond fraction increases, and the W-coated specimens are more effectively to suppress the thermal expansion of Al matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanofibril (CNF) and epoxy nanocomposites with high visible light transmittance and low water sensitivity were manufactured by laminating thin layers of epoxy resin onto CNF films prepared through, pressurized filtration in combination with oven drying. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies suggest that the resin component bonded to the CNF substrate well. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) observation reveals that the resin lamination led to smoother film surface, which helped enhance UV–vis transmittance. The addition of epoxy resin had little effect on the static and dynamic mechanical strength. However, crystalline and interconnected CNFs significantly reduced the loss factor and shifted the glass transition of composite to a high temperature. Compared to pure CNF films, the CNF/epoxy composites showed a 20% improved transparence in the visible light range. The CNF/epoxy composites demonstrated a sufficient water resistance. This composite film could be considered as a potential substrate material in the application of flexible electronics substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapidly solidified powder with refined microstructure is widely used as raw materials for powder metallurgy route. Understanding and controlling the densification behavior of the powder are important to obtain high quality products. In this work, the effect of solidification rate on cold compactibility is investigated via compaction of the rapidly solidified hypereutectic Al–Si alloy powder with different particle sizes. The deformation capacity of the powder with different particle sizes is investigated by linear compaction equations. Furthermore, the microstructure and fracture surface of the compacts are also examined to understand the powder deformation behavior during compaction. The results indicate that the deformation capacity is significantly affected by the microstructure characteristics and the microhardness of Al matrix controlled by solidification rate (or particle size). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mountain pine beetle-killed lodgepole pine ( Pinus contorta ) wood treated with iron (III) nitrate solution was used for the preparation of Fe-cored carbon nanomaterials (Fe-CNs) under various carbonization temperatures. The carbonization yield of Fe-treated sample (5% as Fe) was always 1–3% higher (after ash compensation) than that of the non-treated samples heated at the same condition. The lowest carbonization temperature required to produce Fe-CNs was 700 °C. The carbon shell was composed of 30–40 well-aligned layers of graphitic carbon nanostructure. The iron captured by graphitic layers was assumed to be iron carbides and/or α-Fe and γ-Fe. This study indicates that at least 700 °C of carbonization temperature is needed for the production of Fe-CNs and the mountain pine beetle-killed pine wood can be a carbon source for the production of Fe-CNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Sodium lignosulfonate (LS) from sulfite pulping processing was used as a carbon source to synthesize graphene. LS was mixed with Fe nanoparticles (FeNPs) as a catalyst and thermally treated at 1000°C for 1h. The Raman spectrum and X-ray diffraction pattern suggested that graphene sheets were formed in LS thermally treated with FeNPs (Fe-HTLS). Scanning electron microscopy image of Fe-HTLS showed clusters of thin graphene sheets appearing in the form of nanoflowers. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and electron reflection images provided further evidence of the formation of graphene in LS thermally treated in the presence of Fe catalyst. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of oxalic acid (OA) wood chips pretreatment prior to refining, which is done to reduce energy used during the refining process. Selected mechanical and physical performances of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) - internal bonding (IB), modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), water absorption (WA) and thickness swelling (TS) - made from this OA-pretreated wood were tested and the effect of the OA treatment on carbohydrates investigated. The results showed that the OA treatment significantly reduced refining energy usage, and improved MDF dimensional stability and lightness. However, the OA treatment had a negative effect on the internal bonding strength of MDF panels. The amount of extracted carbohydrates was dramatically increased, up to 24 times, by the OA pretreatment. Carbohydrates extracted from wood chips could be a potential sustainable resource for biofuel or bio-based chemicals. This paper is a contribution to the so-called 'value prior to pulping (VPP)' concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective is to evaluate the effect of oxalic acid (OA) and steam-pretreatment on the primary performance of rice straw particleboards. In addition, the effect of various treatment conditions on carbohydrates released from rice straw particles was investigated. The results show that steam- and short durations of OA-treatment significantly improved the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of rice straw particleboards. However, steam-treated rice straw (without OA-treatment) panels exhibited even better performance when compared with OA-treated panels. OA-pretreatment time has a negative effect on performance of panels, whereas the effect of temperature on the performance of OA-treated panels was not significant, except for the linear expansion. OA-treatment accelerated carbohydrates extraction. The sugars released from the OA-treated rice straw particles increase with increasing treatment temperature and time. Carbohydrates extracted from rice straw particles could be a potential sustainable resource for biofuel or bio-based chemicals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objective is to evaluate the primary mechanical and physical properties of particleboard made from hammer-milled rice straw particles of six different categories and two types of resins. The results show the performance of straw particleboards is highly dependent upon the straw particle size controlled by the opening size of the perforated plate inside the hammer-mill. The static bending and internal bonding strength of polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI) resin-bonded boards initially increase then decrease with decreased particle size. The thickness swelling, water absorption, and linear expansion of particleboards decrease with increasing particle size. Compared with pMDI resin-bonded panels, the rice straw particleboard bonded using urea-formaldehyde resin exhibits much poorer performance. The optimized panel properties, obtained when using 4% pMDI and straw particles hammer milled with a 3.18mm opening perforated plate, exceeded the M-2 specification of American National Standard for Wood Particleboard. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Wood char, a by-product from the fast-pyrolysis process of southern yellow pine wood for bio-oil production, was carbonized with Fe nanoparticles (FeNPs) as a catalyst to prepare carbon-encapsulated Fe nanoparticles. A magnetic separation method was tested to isolate carbon-encapsulated Fe nanoparticles from the carbonized char. X-ray diffraction pattern clearly shows that Fe-containing materials were completely separated from the carbonized wood char mixture using a magnet. The amorphous carbon in the material which adhered to the magnetic bar was significantly decreased in comparison with the non-adhered material. Carbon graphitic layers encapsulated FeNPs were observed in the adhered material through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. In addition, many long and tangled-multi-layered graphitic carbon structures grew from the surface of carbon-encapsulated Fe nanoparticles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Kraft lignin was catalytically graphitized to graphene-based nanostructures at high temperature under non-oxidative atmospheres. To obtain the best catalytic performance, a uniform catalyst–lignin mixture must be made by bonding transitional metal (M) ions to oxygen (O), sulfur (S) or nitrogen (N)-containing functional groups in kraft lignin. One of the strategies is to dissolve or disperse kraft lignin in a suitable solvent, whereby the polymer chains in the condensed lignin molecules will be detangled and stretched out while the functional groups are solvated, and when mixing lignin solution with catalyst metal solution, the solvated metal ions in an aqueous solution can diffuse and migrate onto lignin chains to form M-O, M-S, or M-N bonds during the mixing process. Therefore, solvent effects are important in preparing M–lignin mixture for production of graphene-based nanostructures. Fe–lignin precursors were prepared by dissolving lignin with different solvents, including water, methanol, acetone, and tetrahydrofuran (THF). Solvent effects on the catalytic performance, size and morphology of graphene-based nanostructures were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and nitrogen sorption measurements. The sizes, morphologies, and catalytic properties of the products obtained from Fe–lignin precursors are greatly influenced by the solvents used. It was found that Fe–lignin (THF) had the highest iron dispersion and the smallest iron particle size. Furthermore, Fe–lignin (THF) exhibited the best catalytic performance for graphitization of kraft lignin while the graphitization degree decreased in the order: Fe–lignin(THF) > Fe–lignin(Acetone) > Fe–lignin(methanol) > Fe–lignin(water). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellulose nanofibril material utilized in structural composites has attracted considerable attention in recent decades. However, developing and manufacturing such products are still somewhat problematic. In this research, cellulose nanofibril aerogel and epoxy/cellulose nanofibril composite foam with different epoxy weight ratios have been developed to make structural insulated panels. A batch of small-scale samples was used to investigate the mechanical properties and characteristics of structural insulated panels with different cellulose nanofibril-based core materials. The morphology showed that the epoxy uniformly encapsulated the cellulose nanofibril fiber walls, and the cellulose nanofibrils were the critical components to form a three-dimensional framework. The ratio of epoxy and cellulose nanofibril in these composite foams had a noticeable effect on their mechanical properties. Moreover, the thermal conductivities for pure cellulose nanofibril, epoxy/CNF10, and epoxy/CNF5 samples were 0.034, 0.045, and 0.050 W/mK, respectively. These thermal values are in the similar range of commercial insulated foam in current use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Simultaneous adsorption of Cd and degradation of HCIP by ZVI/biochar composite(Fe@C) in water. • Fe@C had high adsorption capacity for both HCIP (262.76 mg/g) and Cd2+(356.96 mg/g). • The TOC removal efficiency reached 33.64 % after degradation for 4 h. • The co-exist of Cd2+ promoted the HCIP degradation, and the adsorption of Cd2+ was enhanced by the existence of HCIP. • O 2 ·− rather than SO 4 ·− and ·OH participated in the oxidation reaction, O 2 ·− was the dominant ROS for HCIP degradation. The combined pollution of heavy metals and antibiotics in wastewater does great harm to the ecological environment in recent years. In this work, ZVI/biochar (Fe@C) was prepared by a simple green method and was used to remove Cd2+ and ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (HCIP) from aqueous solution. The material has shown splendid efficiency in the simultaneous adsorption of Cd2+ and degradation of HCIP. The adsorption isotherms results exhibited that the adsorption capacity of the Fe@C for Cd2+ and HCIP was 367.95 and 262.76 mg/g, respectively. The TOC removal efficiency reached 33.64 % after degradation for 4 h. The adsorption mechanisms of Cd2+ were precipitation adsorption and complex formation with oxygen-containing functional groups, while the HCIP were cation bridging, electrostatic interactions, π-π interaction and hydrogen bonding interaction, and Cd2+ could act as a bridge. The adsorption of Cd2+ was enhanced because of the existence of HCIP. The degradation of HCIP was promoted visibly due to the complexation of Cd2+ and HCIP. The quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance analysis showed that the superoxide free radical (O 2 ·−) rather than SO 4 ·− and ·OH was the main species leading to HCIP degradation. This work provides a simple, green and low-cost way for the preparation of environmental remediation materials, and can effectively achieve co-removal of Cd2+ and HCIP, which has potential application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike oceanic hotspot tracks, continental hotspot tracks are difficult to recognise, although they can provide unique insights into crustal deformation and intraplate magmatism. Here, we present whole‐rock geochemical and Sr–Nd isotope, and zircon U–Pb age and Hf isotope data for a tuff from the E'Xi rift basin in the South China Block. The zircons yielded a 206Pb/238U age of 267.0 ± 2.0 Ma, which coincides with the Roadian–Wordian boundary. The whole‐rock geochemical and Sr–Nd isotope data for the tuff indicate it had a mixed mantle–crust source. The zircon trace element and εHf(t) (−6.32 to +7.06) data are also consistent with such a source. Based on the sedimentological and tectonic history, and the geochronology and geochemistry of the tuff, we propose the tuff erupted in a rift and records the hidden hotspot track of the Emeishan mantle plume beneath the northern SCB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies have been approved for bladder cancer (BLCA), only a minority of patients respond to these therapies, and there is an urgent need to explore combined therapies. Systematic multi‐omics analysis identified S100A5 as a novel immunosuppressive target for BLCA. The expression of S100A5 in malignant cells inhibited CD8+ T cell recruitment by decreasing pro‐inflammatory chemokine secretion. Furthermore, S100A5 attenuated effector T cell killing of cancer cells by inhibiting CD8+ T cell proliferation and cytotoxicity. In addition, S100A5 acted as an oncogene, thereby promoting tumor proliferation and invasion. Targeting S100A5 synergized with the efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 treatment by enhancing infiltration and cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells in vivo. Clinically, there was a spatially exclusive relationship between S100A5+ tumor cells and CD8+ T cells in tissue microarrays. Moreover, S100A5 negatively correlated with immunotherapy efficacy in our real‐world and several public immunotherapy cohorts. In summary, S100A5 shapes a non‐inflamed tumor microenvironment in BLCA by inhibiting the secretion of pro‐inflammatory chemokines and the recruitment and cytotoxicity of CD8+ T cells. Targeting S100A5 converts cold tumors into hot tumors, thus enhancing the efficacy of ICB therapy in BLCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of electronics industry, there is an increasing demand for high performance electronic packaging materials. Furthermore, the high-temperature performance and thermal cycling stability are required owing to the harsher service environment. In this work, Al-50Si alloy was prepared via rapid solidification/powder metallurgy technique, and the tensile properties at elevated temperature and the thermo-physical properties after thermal cycling were investigated. The results show that the tensile strength decreases gradually with the increase in the environmental temperature. Whereas, pullout of the Si particle is seldom observed in the specimens at elevated temperatures owing to the strong interfacial bonding. With the progress of thermal cycling, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is stable, but the plastic strain increases rapidly at the initial stage. However, the thermal conductivity decreases significantly with the increase in the temperature or the number of thermal cycles. This phenomenon is mainly ascribed to the CTE mismatch between the Al matrix and Si phase. The variation of CTE and thermal conductivity is discussed in terms of thermally induced stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper matrix composites reinforced with dual-metal-layer coated diamond particles were prepared via hot-press sintering. The effects of W-Ni and W-Cu coatings on the microstructure and thermo-physical properties of the composites were analyzed. The thermal behavior of the composites was simulated using finite element models based on the experimental microstructure images. The results show that the dual-layer coatings not only favor the densification of the composites but also benefit the formation of excellent interfacial bonding. The thermal conductivity of the composites reinforced with 45 vol% W-Cu and W-Ni coated diamond particles reaches 661 and 563 W/mK, respectively. The simulation of the thermal behavior of the composites with dual-layer coatings shows that a temperature drop occurs when heat flows through the boundary between the diamond and copper. The heat flux transmits from one diamond to the nearest one and forms a heat transfer channel along the direction of the temperature gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foam materials are widely used in packaging and buildings for thermal insulation, sound absorption, shock absorption, and other functions. They are dominated by petroleum‐based plastics, most of which, however, are not biodegradable nor fire‐proofing, leading to severe plastic pollution and safety concerns. Here, a fire‐proofing, thermally insulating, recyclable 3D graphite‐cellulose nanofiber (G‐CNF) foam fabricated from resource‐abundant graphite and cellulose is reported. A freeze‐drying‐free and scalable ionic crosslinking method is developed to fabricate Cu2+ ionic crosslinked G‐CNF (Cu‐G‐CNF) foam with a low energy consumption and cost. Moreover, the direct foam formation strategy enables local foam manufacturing to fulfil the local demand. The ionic crosslinked G‐CNF foam demonstrates excellent water stability (the foam can maintain mechanical robustness even in wet state and recover after being dried in air without deformation), fire resistance (41.7 kW m−2 vs 214.3 kW m−2 in the peak value of heat release rate) and a low thermal conductivity (0.05 W/(mK)), without compromising the recyclability, degradability, and mechanical performance of the composite foam. The demonstrated 3D G‐CNF foam can potentially replace the commercial plastic‐based foam materials, representing a sustainable solution against the "white pollution". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophobic and crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/cellulose nanofibril (CNF) aerogel microspheres were prepared via a combination of the water-in-oil (W/O) emulsification process with the freeze-drying process, followed by thermal chemical vapor deposition of methyltrichlorosilane. The oil phase and the cooling agent were judiciously selected to ensure that the frozen ice microspheres can be easily separated from the emulsion system. The silanized microspheres were highly porous with a bulk density ranging from 4.66 to 16.54 mg/cm 3 . The effects of the solution pH, stirring rate, and emulsifier concentration on the morphology and microstructure of the aerogel microspheres were studied. The highly porous structure of the ultralight aerogel microspheres demonstrated an ultrahigh crude oil absorption capacity (up to 116 times its own weight). This study provides a novel approach for the large-scale preparation of polymeric aerogel microspheres with well-controlled particle sizes that can be used for various applications including oil and chemical spill/leak clean-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamond/Cu composites with high density and good thermal properties are fabricated by vacuum hot pressing via designing dual layers on the diamond particles. Different types of inner tungsten layers are coated on diamond after annealing with the loose tungsten powder, and the outer copper layer is then deposited using electroless plating. The effects of dual layers on the microstructure and thermal conductivities of diamond/Cu composite are investigated. The results indicate that the tungsten coating exhibits integrated and uniform structure when the diamond is treated with tungsten powder at 900 °C for 2 h. This tungsten coating improves the interfacial bonding and minimizes the thermal boundary resistance between the diamond and the copper matrix. Moreover, the outside copper coating promotes the sintering process, and hence favors the low-temperature densification of diamond/Cu composites. The thermal conductivity of diamond/Cu composites reaches 721 W m − 1 K − 1 , which is close to the theoretical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aerospace industry requires a reliable solder with a melting point of about 240 °C that does not produce tin whiskers. The Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb-based solders, with a melting point of about 240 °C, would be the candidate solders. This paper studied the microstructure and shear strength of the Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb–xAg/Cu solder joints. The Cu3Sn formed at the interface of Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb–xAg/Cu after soldering at 260 °C. The thickness of Cu3Sn IMC is proportional to the square root of time until the SbSn phase in the solder is exhausted. Adequate Ag addition in Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb solder increases the activation energy of Cu3Sn, inhibiting the rapid growth of Cu3Sn. Therefore, after soldering for 5 min, the thickness of Cu3Sn layer in Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb/Cu solder joint is 2.2 μm, which is reduced to 1.2 μm in Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb–1Ag/Cu solder joint. The shear strength of the solder joint increases with the thickness of the Cu3Sn layer when the thickness of the Cu3Sn layer is below 1.2 μm, then decreases when the Cu3Sn layer is too thick. The solder joint, with a thin and flat Cu3Sn IMC layer, shows high shear strength. After soldering for 5 min, the shear strength of the Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb–1Ag/Cu solder joint achieves 32 MPa, about 60% higher than the Pb–16Sn–7.5Sb/Cu joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the 2196 Al-Li alloy prepared by the vacuum gas atomization, hot-isostatic-pressing (HIP) and hot-extrusion were investigated. The results show that prior particle boundaries (PPBs) exist in the microstructure of the HIPed alloy, and hot-extrusion effectively breaks PPBs to restrict the element micro-segregations. The as-extruded alloy exhibits fine grains, and bears higher solution treatment temperature due to the absence of low-melting-point micro-segregations. In the ageing process, the alloy hardness continues to rise, and reaches the peak value at 48 h. The precipitation sequence of the alloy is determined to be: supersaturated solid solution (SSS) → GP zone + fine T 1 + δ′ → T 1 + θ′ + δ′, where T 1 phase dominates the whole ageing process. The diameter of the T 1 platelets increases gradually with the increase of ageing time, meanwhile the T 1 number density slightly drops in the over-aged alloy. The 3% pre-stretching promotes the nucleation of T 1 phase, and the peak-ageing time is shortened to 28 h. Besides, no over-ageing phenomenon is observed in the pre-stretched samples. The Mg-Cu and non-Cu clusters formed on the dislocations accelerate the precipitation of T 1 phase and prevent the nucleation of θ′ phase. The yield strength (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the T8 sample are 490 MPa and 515 MPa, respectively, which is notably higher than the T6 sample. The tensile strength of the present alloy is relatively higher than that of the Al-Li alloys with a comparable Li content. ● The grain size of the rapidly-solidified 2196 Al-Li alloy is much smaller than the casting Al-Li alloys. ● Hot-extrusion breaks the prior particle boundaries (PPBs) and restricts the micro-segregations at PPBs. ● The RS/PM 2196 alloy can bear a higher solid solution temperature than the casting alloy. ● Pre-stretching improves the mechanical properties and the UTS of the T8 alloy is higher than other similar Al-Li alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents analysis of a 3-dimensional engineered structural panel (3DESP) having a tri-axial core structure made from phenolic impregnated laminated-paper composites with and without high-strength composite carbon-fiber fabric laminated to the outside of both faces. Both I-beam equations and finite element method were used to analyze four-point bending of the panels. Comparisons were made with experimental panels. In this study, four experimental panels were fabricated and analyzed to determine the influence of the carbon-fiber on bending performance. The materials properties for finite element analyses (FEA) and I-beam equations were obtained from either the manufacturer or in-house material tensile tests. The results of the FEA and I-beam equations were used to compare with the experimental 3DESP four-point bending tests. The maximum load, face stresses, shear stresses, and apparent modulus of elasticity were determined. For the I-beam equations, failure was based on maximum stress values. For FEA, the Tsai-Wu strength failure criterion was used to determine structural materials failure. The I-beam equations underestimated the performance of the experimental panels. The FEA-estimated load values were generally higher than the experimental panels exhibiting slightly higher panel properties and load capacity. The addition of carbon-fiber fabric to the face of the panels influenced the failure mechanism from face buckling to panel shear at the face–rib interface. FEA provided the best comparison with the experimental bending results for 3DESP. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nickel (Ni)-lignin nanocomposites were synthesized from nickel nitrate and kraft lignin then catalytically graphitized to few-layer graphene-encapsulated nickel nanoparticles (Ni@G). Ni@G nanoparticles were used for catalytic decomposition of methane (CDM) to produce COx-free hydrogen and graphene nanoplatelets. Ni@G showed high catalytic activity for methane decomposition at temperatures of 800 to 900 °C and exhibited long-term stability of 600 min time-on-stream (TOS) without apparent deactivation. The catalytic stability may be attributed to the nickel dispersion in the Ni@G sample. During the CDM reaction process, graphene shells over Ni@G nanoparticles were cracked and peeled off the nickel cores at high temperature. Both the exposed nickel nanoparticles and the cracked graphene shells may participate the CDM reaction, making Ni@G samples highly active for CDM reaction. The vacancy defects and edges in the cracked graphene shells serve as the active sites for methane decomposition. The edges are continuously regenerated by methane molecules through CDM reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, few-layer graphene materials were produced from Fe-lignin nanocomposites through a molecular cracking and welding (MCW) method. MCW process is a low-cost, scalable technique to fabricate few-layer graphene materials. It involves preparing metal (M)-lignin nanocomposites from kraft lignin and a transition metal catalyst, pretreating the M-lignin composites, and forming of the graphene-encapsulated metal structures by catalytic graphitization the M-lignin composites. Then, these graphene-encapsulated metal structures are opened by the molecule cracking reagents. The graphene shells are peeled off the metal core and simultaneously welded and reconstructed to graphene materials under a selected welding reagent. The critical parameters, including heating temperature, heating time, and particle sizes of the Fe-lignin composites, have been explored to understand the graphene formation mechanism and to obtain the optimized process parameters to improve the yield and selectivity of graphene materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kovar/40Cu composites for electronic packaging were prepared by hot pressing at 700–1000 °C. The interface diffusion behavior, microstructure, and properties of Kovar/40Cu composites were studied. The results show that the interfacial diffusion of elements from Kovar to Cu matrix occurs when the temperature reaches 800 °C, and the diffusion rate of elements from Kovar to Cu matrix is greater than that from Cu matrix to Kovar. The strength of the composite material increases with the temperature, and the strength can reach 547.6 MPa after hot pressing 1000 °C/1 h. However, the elongation of composite material increases first and then decreases. After hot pressing at 800 °C/0.5 h, the maximum elongation is 20.1 %. Under the influence of solid solution atoms, the thermal conductivity of the composite decreases continuously, and the thermal expansion coefficient increases first and then decreases. The optimal sintering parameter is 800 °C/0.5 h. • The mutual diffusion of elements will occur in the Kovar/Cu composites above 800 °C. • The diffusion rate of elements from Kovar to Cu matrix is greater than that of Cu matrix to Kovar. • The diffusion of elements will increase the strength and reduce the thermal conductivity of the Kovar/Cu composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Depicting the heterogeneity and functional characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is necessary to achieve precision medicine for bladder cancer (BLCA). Although classical molecular subtypes effectively reflect TME heterogeneity and characteristics, their clinical application is limited by several issues.Methods: In this study, we integrated the Xiangya cohort and multiple external BLCA cohorts to develop a novel 5-methylcytosine (5mC) regulator-mediated molecular subtype system and a corresponding quantitative indicator, the 5mC score. Unsupervised clustering was performed to identify novel 5mC regulator-mediated molecular subtypes. The principal component analysis was applied to calculate the 5mC score. Then, we correlated the 5mC clusters (5mC score) with classical molecular subtypes, immunophenotypes, clinical outcomes, and therapeutic opportunities in BLCA. Finally, we performed pancancer analyses on the 5mC score.Results: Two 5mC clusters, including 5mC cluster 1 and cluster 2, were identified. These novel 5mC clusters (5mC score) could accurately predict classical molecular subtypes, immunophenotypes, prognosis, and therapeutic opportunities of BLCA. 5mC cluster 1 (high 5mC score) indicated a luminal subtype and noninflamed phenotype, characterized by lower anticancer immunity but better prognosis. Moreover, 5mC cluster 1 (high 5mC score) predicted low sensitivity to cancer immunotherapy, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, but high sensitivity to antiangiogenic therapy and targeted therapies, such as blocking the β-catenin, FGFR3, and PPAR-γ pathways.Conclusions: The novel 5mC regulator-based subtype system reflects many aspects of BLCA biology and provides new insights into precision medicine in BLCA. Furthermore, the 5mC score may be a generalizable predictor of immunotherapy response and prognosis in pancancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bamboo is a biomass material and has great potential as a bio-energy resource of the future in China. Bamboo pellets were successfully manufactured using a laboratory pellet mill in preliminary work. This study was therefore carried out to investigate the effect of carbonization conditions (temperature and time) on properties of bamboo pellets and to evaluate product properties. It was concluded that carbonization conditions affected the properties of bamboo pellets. The effects of carbonization temperature on some properties such as unit mass loss, pellet absorption, bulk density, unit density, gross calorific value and combustion rate, were significant at p = 0.05. But there were not significant differences between carbonization time and all properties of bamboo pellets. After being carbonized, the properties of bamboo pellets, such as pellet absorption, durability, fine, gross calorific value, combustion rate and heat release rate, were improved. All properties of carbonized pellets meet the requirement of the Pellet Fuels Institute Standard Specification for Residential/Commercial Densified and the gross calorific value also meets the minimum requirement for making commercial pellets of DIN 51731 (>17,500 J/g) even though the properties of carbonized pellets, such as bulk density, unit density and inorganic ash, had poor quality compared with untreated pellets. Carbonized bamboo pellets are the proposed new biomass solid fuel and have the potential to be developed as commercial pellets. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of the embedding medium on the nano-indentation measurements of lignocellulosic materials was investigated experimentally using nano-indentation. Both the reduced elastic modulus and the hardness of non-embedded cell walls were found to be lower than those of the embedded samples, proving that the embedding medium used for specimen preparation on cellulosic material during nano-indentation can modify cell-wall properties. This leads to structural and chemical changes in the cell-wall constituents, changes that may significantly alter the material properties. Further investigation was carried out to detect the influence of different vacuum times on the cell-wall mechanical properties during the embedding procedure. Interpretation of the statistical analysis revealed no linear relationships between vacuum time and the mechanical properties of cell walls. The quantitative measurements confirm that low-viscosity resin has a rapid penetration rate early in the curing process. Finally, a novel sample preparation method aimed at preventing resin diffusion into lignocellulosic cell walls was developed using a plastic film to wrap the sample before embedding. This method proved to be accessible and straightforward for many kinds of lignocellulosic material, but is especially suitable for small, soft samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effect the oxalic acid (OA) and steam pretreatment on the primary properties of rice straw medium-density fiberboard (MDF). The results show the IB strength increased about 9.6% and 13.4% for steam-treated MDF (PC) and OA-treated MDF compared with raw control panels, while OA pretreatment has a slight negative effect on the bending properties of MDF. Generally, the steam-treated and OA-treated panels exhibit a slightly improved dimensional stability, but the difference is not significant compared with raw control panels. The thermo-mechanical defibration process is the main factor to improve the bond-ability between UF resin and rice straw, which resulted in good quality rice straw MDF. The mechanical strength of rice straw MDF can meet ANSI standard for interior MDF, but the LE and TS of MDF without paraffin wax addition is lower than the minimal requirement of the ANSI standard. MDF is one of the most feasible products for utilizing rice straw. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Biomass like wood chips, switchgrass and other plant residues are first converted to syngas through gasification process using air, oxygen or steam. A downdraft gasifier is performed for syngas production in Mississippi State. The syngas from the gasifier contains up to 49% (vol) N2. High-level nitrogen-containing (nitrogen can be up to 60%) synthesis gas is converted to liquid hydrocarbon mixture through a one-stage catalytic process with a Fe–Pd/ZSM-5 catalyst. The Fe–Pd/ZSM-5 catalyst shows relatively high activity and selectivity in producing liquid hydrocarbons when running with nitrogen-rich syngas. The CO conversion, hydrocarbon selectivity and hydrocarbon distribution as a function of temperature, pressure, GHSV, composition of the feed, and reaction time are examined. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Characteristics of microwave drying of wood strands with different initial moisture contents and geometries were investigated using a commercial small microwave oven under different power inputs. Temperature and moisture changes along with the drying efficiency were examined at different drying scenarios. Extractives were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The results showed that the microwave drying process consisted of three distinct periods (warm-up period, evaporation period, and heating-up period) during which the temperature, moisture change, and drying efficiency could vary. Most of the extractives were remnant during microwave drying. It was observed that with proper selections of power input, weight of drying material, and drying time, microwave drying could increase the drying rate, save up to 50% of energy consumption, and decrease volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions when compared with the conventional drying method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metal additive manufacturing industry is rising and the interest in selective laser melted Al–Mg alloys is growing. However, little is known about the difference of microstructure and precipitates evolutions in the coarse and fine grain regions during heat treatment. In this work, heat treatment of Al-4.0Mg-0.7Sc-0.4Zr-0.5Mn alloy processed by selective laser melting was carried out under various conditions to establish the microstructure-mechanical properties relationship. The results show that the bimodal microstructure and grain size distribution of the heat-treated alloy do not change significantly due to the grain boundary (GB)-particles preventing grain growth. However, the particles in the fine grain regions are easier to grow larger than those in the coarse grain regions. Excessive temperature (>350 °C) results in the growth of the particles and is detrimental to the alloy strength. Excellent yield strength of 520 MPa is obtained at 350 °C for 2 h, which is mainly attributed to the precipitation of Al 3 (Sc, Zr) particles and fine grain structure. • The bimodal microstructure and grain size distribution of the heat-treated alloy do not change significantly. • Enhanced yield strength of 520 MPa is obtained at 350 °C for 2 h. • The strengthening effect is mainly attributed to the precipitation of nano-sized Al 3 (Sc, Zr) particles. • Excessive temperature results in the growth of Al 3 (Sc, Zr) and Al 6 Mn particles and weakens the strength of the alloy. • The particles in the FG regions are easier to grow larger than those in the CG regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fe-lignin composites is prepared by coprecipitation method. • Thermal stability of the Fe-lignin composite is investigated using TGA and DSC. • Thermal decomposition of Fe-lignin samples is a strong exothermic process. • Thermal stability of Fe-lignin is affected by iron content and solvents used process. • Thermal runaway may occur during Fe-lignin decomposition process. In present work, Fe-lignin composites were prepared by chemical coprecipitation of metal salts and kraft lignin; the thermal stability of the Fe-lignin mixture was then investigated at temperatures up to 300 °C using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at a heating rate of 5 °C min−1 under nitrogen atmosphere. The structural characteristics of Fe-lignin thermal treated under different temperatures were identified by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry. The temperature-programmed thermal decomposition (TPD) of Fe-lignin samples was carried out in a fixed-bed reactor; the gaseous products were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by an on-line quantitative gas analysis system. The temperature and pressure of the reactor were monitored and recorded during the thermal decomposition process. It was observed, the thermal decomposition of Fe-lignin samples is a strong exothermic process, and a significant amount of heat is released from the reaction, which triggers a thermal runaway situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To further refine the coarse columnar grains (CGs) in selective laser melted (SLMed) alloy, an Al-4.0Mg-0.7Sc-0.4Zr-0.5Mn alloy was fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM) and then subjected to cold rolling and annealing at 300 °C for 1 h. Microstructural details and mechanical properties were examined by SEM, EBSD, TEM, and tensile tests. The results show that the microstructure of the SLMed alloy can be further refined by cold rolling. A yield strength of 573 MPa is obtained with an average grain size of 2.4 ± 1.3 μm in the CGs areas, a reduction of approximately 30% compared with the as-fabricated alloy. The enhanced strength of the rolled alloy is derived from the refined grains and high density of Al 3 (Sc, Zr) phase. Additionally, the Al 3 (Sc, Zr) particles can enhance the microstructure stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective laser melting (SLM) has become a promising manufacturing route for the aluminum alloy models and parts in automotive and aircraft industries. In this work, an Al-4.0Mg-0.7Sc-0.4Zr-0.5Mn alloy was fabricated by SLM and near-full densification (relative density 99.7%) was obtained. A fine equiaxed grain regions and columnar grain regions alternately distributed characteristic is observed in the as-fabricated sample. The results of microstructural analyses show that the rapid solidification process and the precipitation of Al 3 Mg 2 , Al 6 (Fe, Mn), and Al 3 (Sc, Zr) particles lead to the fine grain structure, which provides a combination of high yield strength and excellent ductility. The mechanical properties of the as-fabricated sample were analyzed based on the typical microstructural feature of a combination of coarse columnar grain regions and fine grain regions. The strengthening effect is mainly attributed to the grain boundaries and the effect of grain boundaries on yield stress is according with the classical Hall-Petch relationship. • Dense samples with a 362 MPa tensile strength, and 11.2% elongation are obtained in the as-fabricated alloys. • The microstructure of the SLM alloy is composed of coarse columnar grains separated by fine equiaxed grains. • The strengthening effect of grain boundaries on yield stress accords with the Hall-Petch relationship. • The primary Al 3 (Sc, Zr) particles act as a grain refining agent and are mainly distributed within the grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas atomized Cu-3Ag-0.5Zr and Cu-3Ag-0.5Zr-0.4Cr-0.35Nb (wt.%) powders were compacted by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and followed by forging. The microstructures and tensile properties at room and elevated temperatures (400 °C, 450 °C and 500 °C) were investigated. The continuous Ag precipitates (5–25 nm) and Cu 4 AgZr (200–500 nm) particles are the main strengthening phases in the Cu-3Ag-0.5Zr alloy. The yield strength and ultimate tensile strength at room temperature are enhanced by 104 MPa and 83 MPa, respectively, due to the introduction of Cr 2 Nb (50–80 nm) particles. Besides, the strength at elevated temperatures is also improved. For both the alloys, the discontinuous Ag precipitates near the grain boundaries result in a weak grain boundary cohesion when tested at 450 °C, leading to the lowest elongation. The Cr 2 Nb and Cu 4 AgZr particles are extremely stable when tested at 500 °C, which benefits to the performance enhancements at elevated temperatures. • Cu-3Ag-0.5Zr and Cu-3Ag-0.5Zr-0.4Cr-0.35Nb alloys are prepared by rapid solidification. • Both alloys with fine microstructures exhibit excellent tensile properties. • Alloy with Cr and Nb exhibits higher strength when tested at the same temperature. • Nano-sized Cr 2 Nb and micro-sized Cu 4 AgZr exhibit excellent thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure, mechanical property and in vitro degradation behavior of as-extruded Mg-2Zn-0.2Zr- x Nd (ZK- x Nd, x = 0.2, 0.6, 1.0, wt%) alloys were investigated. The 1.0% Nd addition in Mg-2Zn-0.2Zr (ZK) alloy refines grains, promotes the formation of the MgZn 2 Nd phase and weakens the basal texture. As-extruded ZK-0.2Nd alloy exhibits a low degradation rate (D w = 1.13 ± 0.15 mm·y−1). In the early immersion stage, an intergranular degradation occurs because of few dislocations at grain boundaries. With the immersion proceeding a homogeneous degradation occurs and compact rich Ca P by-products form. All tested ZK-Nd alloys exhibit no cytotoxicity on HUVEC cells. The tensile strength and ductility, however, have no obvious change. It is mainly attributed to less solid solution strengthening, precipitation strengthening and the premature failure caused by incoherent interfaces between the hard MgZn 2 Nd phase and α-Mg matrix. • Design biodegradable Mg-2Zn-0.2Zr- x Nd (ZK- x Nd, x = 0.2, 0.6, 1.0, wt.%) alloys as potential implants. • Investigate the effect of microstructure and in vitro degradation behavior of as-extruded ZK- x Nd (x = 0.2, 0.6, 1.0) alloys. • As-extruded ZK-0.2Nd alloy displays the lowest degradation rate in vitro (D w = 1.13 ± 0.15 mm·y−1) with the intergranular corrosion feature. • As-extruded ZK-0.6Nd alloy shows the fastest degradation rate (D w = 1.38 ± 0.10 mm·y−1) with the localized corrosion feature. • The mechanical strength and ductility, however, have no obvious improved. It is mainly attributed to less solid solution strengthening, precipitation strengthening and the premature failure caused by incoherent interfaces between the hard MgZn 2 Nd phase and α-Mg matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure, texture, and mechanical properties of as-extruded Mg- x Li-3Al-2Zn-0.2Zr alloys (x = 5, 7, 8, 9, 11 wt%) were investigated. After hot extrusion, the filamentous AlLi phase in α-Mg is crushed into tiny particles, while the morphology of round-like AlLi phase in β-Li remains unchanged. The threadlike MgLi 2 Al phase precipitated during hot extrusion only distributes along the grain boundaries of β-Li phase. The grains of as-extruded alloys are refined markedly due to dynamic recrystallization (DRX), and α-Mg phase undergoes discontinuous DRX while β-Li phase undergoes continuous DRX. The { 0001 } basal, { 10 1 ¯ 0 } and { 11 2 ¯ 0 } prismatic fiber textures formed in α-Mg phase suggest the activation of both basal and prismatic slip, and the intensity of prismatic texture is higher than that of basal texture. In β-Li phase, as the extrusion temperature increases and the Li content decreases, the intensities of α fiber and { 110 } 110 textures decrease while those of γ fiber and { 110 } //ED textures increase. Compared with as-homogenized alloys, the mechanical properties of as-extruded alloys are significantly improved owing to grain refinement strengthening, texture hardening, strain hardening, and second phase strengthening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Hydrophobic and compressible CNF aerogel are prepared by a facile synthesis method combing aqueous silylation and freeze-casting. • The hydrophilicity and fragility of CNF aerogel were simultaneous addressed without requiring any post-treatments. • Freeze-casted silylated aerogel exhibited direction-dependent structure and compression properties. Abstract Cellulose aerogels have shown outstanding potential as renewable functional materials; however, their practical applications are still limited by inherent hydrophilicity and weak mechanical properties. To overcome hydrophilicity and fragility issues of aerogels, in this study, silylated bamboo-derived cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) aerogels with aligned porous structures were achieved by directionally freeze-casting a mixture of CNF suspension and methyltrimethoxysilane sol. The silylated CNF aerogels exhibited distinct aligned lamellar structures and significantly anisotropic mechanical properties. They had improved strength and stiffness in the axial direction (along the freezing direction) and excellent rapid shape recovery ability in the radial direction (perpendicular to the freezing direction) with a significant high shape recovery ratio of 92% after 100 cycles at 80% compression. Owing to their ultra-low density, hydrophobicity, and high compressive recoverability, the silylated CNF aerogels can be potentially used in a wide range of industrial applications, such as hydrophobic polymer nanocomposites, absorbents, and biomedical scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]