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SiO 2 -supported SiC/B 4 C (SiO 2 –SiC/B 4 C) nanowires were synthesized by using SiO 2 @C nanospheres, amorphous B powders and catalyst Ni(NO 3) 2 ·6H 2 O as raw materials, and exhibited remarkable microwave absorbing characteristics. The minimum reflection loss of the SiO 2 –SiC/B 4 C nanowire/paraffin composite reaches −41.33 dB with an effective absorption bandwidth up to 9.69 GHz. The broadband microwave absorption of SiO 2 –SiC/B 4 C nanowires is attributed to the synergistic effect of interfacial polarization relaxation and conduction loss. While conductive loss dominates at low frequencies within 2–8 GHz, polarization loss caused by the heterogeneous interfaces plays an important role at high frequencies, especially between 10 and 16 GHz. The movement of the polarization relaxation peaks to lower frequencies in the composites is further investigated by modeling the relaxation process as a rotating sphere in a viscous fluid. The linear relationship between relaxation time and conductivity indicates that the conductivity is an important factor that affects the electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance not only on the impedance matching and attenuation constant of the materials, but also regulates the relaxation time, and this result provides a new idea for exploring the absorption mechanism of EMW absorbing materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To Chinesize the Nursing Home Care-related Quality of Life Scale (NHC-QoL) and to test its reliability and validity. Methods According to the Brislin model, the NHC-QoL scale was translated into Chinese and cross-cultural debugging was carried out. Using convenience sampling method, 198 elderly people from 4 nursing institutions in Shiyan city were investigated by questionnaire from March to July 2023 to evaluate the reliability and validity of the scale. Results There were 14 items in the Chinese version of NHC-QoL. The content validity index of each item was 0.7-1.0, and the content validity index of the scale was 0.929. Exploratory factor analysis extracted 5 common factors, which could explain 67.914% of the total variation. After discussion within the research group, the common factors were reduced to 2 common factors namely environment and service (11 items) and social interaction (3 items). The total Cronbach's α coefficient of the scale was 0.758 and the test-retest reliability was 0.783. Conclusion The Chinese version of NHC-QoL scale has good reliability and validity and can be used to evaluate the quality of life of the elderly in nursing institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) were mixed with rutile TiO 2 and (Al, Nb)-codoped ceramics (ANTO) powders by heteroaggregation method. Homogeneous ceramics with the single phase of rutile TiO 2 were obtained by subsequent solid-state sintering. Scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) results show that N was doped into the crystal lattice during sintering. It is shown that the strong electron localization of the covalent N i –O bond formed between interstitial N (N i) and adjacent O atom shifts the cutoff frequency of high permittivity from ∼100 kHz to 100 MHz in both rutile TiO 2 and the ANTO systems. Particularly, the ANTO-0.6BNNS sample exhibits optimum dielectric properties with a permittivity of 1.3 × 104 and tan δ of 0.04 measured at 1 MHz. Meanwhile, the colossal permittivity of ANTO-0.6BNNS with tan δ < 0.1 shows good temperature stability in the temperature range of 200–400 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High yielding synthesis of hollow carbon cubes (HCCs) was realized by using easily available NaCl cubes as templates in a simple way. The cubic carbon shells featuring an average side length of 3.5 μm, a thickness of 22.9 nm and the presence of macro and mesopores in the material, endow the HCCs/paraffin composites with an appropriate balance between good impedance matching and strong loss capacity. Superior electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance was obtained at a very low loading ratio of 1.5 wt% of the HCCs. The composite having 4.5 mm thickness gave the maximum reflection loss of −46.0 dB at 7.8 GHz. At a thickness of 2.6 mm, a maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 6.6 GHz was achieved. Further investigation on the EMW dissipation mechanism of HCCs surrounding polarization relaxation and conductive loss was conducted. The integrity of the hollow structure plays a dominant role during EMW dissipation. The present study provides easy processing, cost-effective and environment-friendly HCCs as a predominant candidate for ultralight carbon-based EMW absorbing materials. [Display omitted] • High-yielding synthesis of hollow carbon cubes using NaCl cubes as template. • Superior microwave absorption performance at a low loading ratio of 1.5 wt %. • Dipole polarization observed by measuring temperature dependence of ε′ and tanδ. • Hollow structure effect on the performance studied by damage treatment of HCCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1- x wt)Bi 0.0025 Nb 0.0025 Ti 0.995 O 2 - x wt Bi 2 Ti 4 O 11 composite ceramics with high permittivity were fabricated by a conventional sintering method. The sintering temperature was decreased from 1300 °C to 1130 °C, and the grain size was reduced from ~2.6 μm to ~1.5 μm by the addition of Bi 2 Ti 4 O 11 phase. When x wt = 0.2, the breakdown strength was increased from 1 kV/cm to 13 kV/cm while preserving high permittivity (ϵ' ~ 1100). Microstructure, I–V behavior, and Impedance spectroscopy studies demonstrated that the enhanced breakdown strength and excellent dielectric properties were attributed to the small grain size and the highly resistant grain boundaries. These advantages, together with its excellent DC bias stability of dielectric constant (0–1050 V/cm), give the composites a great potential in rutile TiO 2 -based high voltage MLCC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel FeB/B 4 C nanowire composite was synthesized by a catalyst-assisted process. The results showed that the composite contains mainly B 4 C nanowires with diameters under 100 nm and FeB nanoparticles with a size of ~50 nm. Reflection loss value of the FeB/B 4 C nanowire-paraffin composite reaches −13.6 dB at 8.2 GHz when the thickness is 3.5 mm, and absorption bandwidth with RL below −10 dB reaches 1.6 GHz (7.5–9.1 GHz). The minimum RL value reaches −50.8 dB at 17.4 GHz when the thickness is 4.8 mm, with the absorption bandwidth increased to 2.4 GHz (15.6–18.0 GHz). Electromagnetic parameters of the composite were studied to understand its excellent microwave absorbing properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the mechanisms of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA)‐improved plant salt tolerance, strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. 'Benihoppe') were treated with 10 mg l−1 ALA under 100 mmol l−1 NaCl stress. We found that the amount of Na+ increased in the roots but decreased in the leaves. Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) observations showed that ALA‐induced roots had more Na+ accumulation than NaCl alone. Measurement of the xylem sap revealed that ALA repressed Na+ concentrations to a large extent. The electron microprobe X‐ray assay also confirmed ALA‐induced Na+ retention in roots. qRT‐PCR showed that ALA upregulated the gene expressions of SOS1 (encoding a plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporter), NHX1 (encoding a vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter) and HKT1 (encoding a protein of high‐affinity K+ uptake), which are associated with Na+ exclusion in the roots, Na+ sequestration in vacuoles and Na+ unloading from the xylem vessels to the parenchyma cells, respectively. Furthermore, we found that ALA treatment reduced the H2O2 content in the leaves but increased it in the roots. The exogenous H2O2 promoted plant growth, increased root Na+ retention and stimulated the gene expressions of NHX1, SOS1 and HKT1. Diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), an inhibitor of H2O2 generation, suppressed the effects of ALA or H2O2 on Na+ retention, gene expressions and salt tolerance. Therefore, we propose that ALA induces H2O2 accumulation in roots, which mediates Na+ transporter gene expression and more Na+ retention in roots, thereby improving plant salt tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ingenious design of heterogeneous structures is an effective strategy for developing advanced microwave absorption materials. In this study, high-efficiency void@carbon@TiO 2 (void@C@TiO 2) cubes were synthesized by a template sol method. Compared with void@carbon (void@C) and void@TiO 2 cubes, the void@C@TiO 2 cubes/paraffin composites of 2.1 µm edge length show excellent microwave absorption performances (MAPs). When the thickness is 2.1 mm, the minimum reflection loss (RL) of – 69.8 dB is superior to – 31.5 dB of void@C cubes at 4.1 mm and – 3.1 dB of void@TiO 2 cubes at 3.7 mm. The effective absorption frequency covers 11.8 GHz (6.2–18.0 GHz, RL below – 10 dB) by matching the coating thickness with 1.7–5.0 mm. The enhanced MAPs originated from the synergistic processes of good impedance matching (|Z in /Z 0 |) and various microwave dissipation mechanisms, including electrical conduction, interfacial charge accumulation, and defect dipolar polarization. The void@C@TiO 2 cubes are a lightweight, easy, environment-friendly, and extendible strategy for microwave absorption applications. • The novel template sol method is a simple, non-toxic, cheap, short-cycle, and recycling strategy for void@C@TiO 2 cubes. • The void@C@TiO 2 cubes with 2.1 µm edge length show a minimum RL of − 69.8 dB when the thickness is 2.1 mm, simultaneously satisfying the EAB of 4.9 GHz at a 20.0 wt% low loading ratio. • The dissipation mechanisms are attributed to conductance loss (annular current), interfacial polarization between TiO 2 and A (A = TiO 2 , C, and paraffin), and defect dipole polarizations (V O • • , T i T i ˊ , and T i T i ˊ → V O • • ← T i T i ˊ ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly stable electrochemical acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor for detection of organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) was developed simply by adsorption of AChE on chitosan (CS), TiO 2 sol-gel, and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) based multi-layered immobilization matrix (denoted as CS @ TiO 2 -CS/rGO). The biosensor fabrication conditions were optimized, and the fabrication process was probed and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical techniques. The matrix has a mesoporous nanostructure. Incorporation of CS and electrodeposition of a CS layer into/on the TiO 2 sol-gel makes the gel become mechanically strong. The catalytic activity of the AChE immobilized CS @ TiO 2 -CS/rGO/glassy carbon electrode to acetylthiocholine is significantly higher than those missing any one of the component in the matrix. The detection linear range of the biosensor to dichlorvos, a model OP compound, is from 0.036 μM (7.9 ppb) to 22.6 μM, with a limit of detection of 29 nM (6.4 ppb) and a total detection time of about 25 min. The biosensor is very reproducibly and stable both in detection and in storage, and can accurately detect the dichlorvos levels in cabbage juice samples, providing an efficient platform for immobilization of AChE, and a promisingly applicable OPs biosensor with high reliability, simplicity, and rapidness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large amount of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (10 vol%) were uniformly and intimately dispersed within ZrB 2 ceramic matrix using an aqueous hetero-coagulation approach followed by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1700 °C. Addition of MWCNTs inhibited grain growth, increased the relative density from 89% to 97%, and resulted in a composite with a fine, rather pore-free and uniform microstructure. Structural evolution of MWCNTs in the ZrB 2 matrix was further studied after SPS sintering at 1900 °C by XRD, Raman, scanning electron microscopy and TEM. When sintered at 1700 °C, the MWCNTs remained intact with their tubular one-dimensional structure though experiencing an expected radial elastic compression/buckling due to thermal misfit residual stresses. When sintered at 1900 °C, their unzipping into graphite nanoribbons was observed. For practical applications, MWCNTs content should however be lowered to prevent their agglomeration during grain growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

POMs-based coordination polymers are promising materials for their potential application in the fields of proton conduction, catalysis and magnetism. Three new coordination polymers namely, {[Co 2 (bib) 3 (H 2 O) 2 (H 4 W 12 O 40)]·7H 2 O} n (1), {[Zn 3 (bib) 8 (H 3 ZnW 12 O 40) 2 ]·12H 2 O} n (2) and {[Ag 5 (bib) 5 (H 3 W 12 O 40)]·5H 2 O} n (3) were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions based on linear nitrogen heterocyclic ligand 1,4-bis(1-imidazolyl)benzene (bib). In compound 1 , CoII ions are linked with [H 4 W 12 O 40 ]4– anions to form a planar network and can be simplified as kgd topology, which are further linked with bib ligands to form a 3D framework. Zn2 ions of compound 2 alternately connect with bib ligands and [H 3 ZnW 12 O 40 ]3– anions to form 1D chain structure, while Zn1 ion forms isolated unit with three bib ligands and one [H 3 ZnW 12 O 40 ]3– anion, and a 3D framework is finally constructed through π ... π stacking interactions. In compound 3 , the 3D structure is constructed from a number of 1D chains formed by AgI ions and bib ligands in different directions through π ... π stacking interaction and Ag⋯O weak connection. The proton conductivity of 1 – 3 are 2.03 ​× ​10−5, 1.04 ​× ​10−6 and 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 98% RH and 358 ​K, respectively. In addition, compounds 1 – 3 exhibit photocatalytic degradation capacity towards RhB and compound 1 displays antiferromagnetic behavior. Three Keggin POM-based coordination polymers have been prepared under hydrothermal condition and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR, XRD and TGA. The highest proton conductivity of 3 is up to 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 358 ​K and 98% RH. [Display omitted] • Three Keggin POM-based coordination polymers have been prepared under hydrothermal condition. • Their structures were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, IR, XRD and TGA. • The highest proton conductivity of 3 is up to 1.87 ​× ​10−4 ​S ​cm−1 at 358 ​K and relative humidity of 98% RH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: GnRHa treatment was established for improving final adult height (FAH) in children presenting with Idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP) up to age 8, while several controversies remained for older age groups. The primary objective was to evaluate whether boys diagnosed with ICPP over 9 years of chronological age (CA) could achieve a height benefit from GnRHa treatment. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of 23 boys treated for idiopathic central precocious puberty between January 2018 and January 2021 at Jiangsu Children's Medical Center. All patients started treatment with intramuscular depot GnRHa at a dose of 80–100 μg/kg, followed by continuous intramuscular injection every 28 days at a dose of 60–80 μg/kg. The hormonal parameters, bone age/chronological age ratio, FAH, growth velocity (GV), tanner staging and body mass index (BMI) were assessed during the treatment period. Results: After one course of treatment (3 months), the basal FSH and testosterone levels were reduced, while the basal LH value was not significantly changed compared with those before treatment. Furthermore, the mean BA/CA ratio reduction was statistically significant at month 12. The mean PAH following administration of GnRHa after 12 months was statistically improved compared with those at baseline. In addition, the clinical sign of puberty and GV were significantly improved and the BMI remained unchanged as desired at month 12. Conclusions: This analysis highlighted the positive outcome on the decrease in the rate of bone maturation, with a favorable effect on progression of clinical signs of puberty. Furthermore, our study confirmed PAH was improved even in the older children at onset of treatment (ages 9–10), emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment in such population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dense, highly textured Zr B2 and Zr B2- Mo Si2 ceramics were fabricated via a strong magnetic field alignment method followed by spark plasma sintering. Unlike with the previous studies, which only focused on the alignment of single-phase particles, both Zr B2 and Mo Si2, which exhibited a magnetic anisotropy, have been aligned in this study. The alignment of Mo Si2 in the same direction of Zr B2 enhanced the degree of orientation of Zr B2, decreased the grain size, but increased the aspect ratio of the platelet Zr B2 grains. The microstructure and anisotropic mechanical properties as well as the oxidation resistance in different directions were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel low-dimensional thermoelectric (TE) materials suffer from poor mechanical reliability, which limits their applications, especially in mechanically harsh environments. Here, we propose a new concept, in which the novel, abundant, thermally stable TE-nanostructures are dispersed and then intimately embedded inside a protective, mechanically reliable tetragonal ZrO2 (TZP) ceramic matrix with a low thermal conductivity. We also demonstrate an experimental proof-of-principle verification of our concept in reduced-graphene oxide (GO)–3 mol% Y2O3–ZrO2 (3YSZ or 3Y-TZP) nanocomposite system. TE characterizations suggest that our protective TZP matrix does not degrade the intrinsic TE property of the reduced GO network. These preliminary results are promising and encouraging to start research on similar TZP-matrix TE-nanocomposites, which contain more effective TE-nanostructures with larger intrinsic power factors. In this regard, we propose a scalable approach for fabrication of similar dense TE-nanocomposites composed of other one-dimensional and/or two-dimensional TE-nanostructures, which involves an aqueous colloidal approach and a subsequent spark plasma sintering. These new TZP-matrix TE-nanocomposites could be used for sustainable clean power generation, especially in mechanically harsh environments with thermal/mechanical shocks and vibrations, where energy availability, reliability and durability are more important than the energy efficiency. Considering the excellent biocompatibility of TZP matrix, they could even be used inside the body to power implanted medical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconium diboride (ZrB2) ceramic possesses a unique combination of nice mechanical performance, high melting point (> 3000 °C) and great high-temperature oxidation resistance (up to 1600 °C), which makes it a promising material system for ever-increasing ultra-high temperature (UHT) applications. However, ZrB2 suffers from poor mechanical performance at UHTs, which could strongly limit its applications at UHT. Here, we successfully demonstrate that texturing is an effective strategy to greatly enhance the flexural strength of monolithic ZrB2, reaching a high value of 810 ± 60 MPa at 1600 °C when loaded in c-axis direction. We thoroughly discuss the strengthening mechanism by in-depth microstructural observations and analysis. Our discovery has technological and scientific implications for other UHT ceramic systems, especially those using ZrB2 as a matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A solid state reaction of ZrH2, Si3N4 and B4C has been proposed to synthesize machinable ZrB2–SiC–BN composites. Dense ZrB2–SiC–BN composites with fine grain size and homogeneous microstructure were fabricated via spark plasma sintering at 1900°C in vacuum. The kinetics of the reaction process was studied with XRD results. SEM and TEM results showed that the in-situ formed BN phase was composed of micro-sized intergranular and nano-sized intragranular h-BN particles. The influences of the BN content on the mechanical properties as well as the thermal conductivities of the composites were studied. The composites that contained >20vol% BN exhibited excellent machinability and high strength. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

ZrB2–SiC–ZrN composites were fabricated by reactive hot pressing using Zr, Si3N4, and B4C powders as starting materials. Sintering was conducted at temperatures of 1800 to 2000°C under a load of 20MPa in Ar atmosphere. The composite was densified at 2000°C. The in situ formed BN flakes which distributed uniformly at the grain boundaries were identified by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The formation of h-BN phase and its effect on the mechanical properties of the composite are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZrB2–SiC–BN composites were fabricated from a powder mixture of ZrH2, Si3N4 and B4C via reactive hot pressing (RHP) and reactive spark plasma sintering (R-SPS). The phase composition, density, microstructure and mechanical properties of the final products were studied and compared. The sample fabricated by the R-SPS process showed higher density, flexural strength and fracture toughness and had a more homogeneous microstructure compared to the one fabricated by the RHP process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Using elemental Zr, B, Mo and Si as raw materials, partially textured ZrB2–MoSi2 composites with in situ platelet ZrB2 grains were fabricated by reactive hot pressing. Synthesized by a combustion reaction, the in situ formed ZrB2 phase had unique characteristics to grow up to platelet grains, on the surroundings of Mo–Si–B ternary liquid phase at high temperature. Mechanical properties were dependent on grain size and aspect ratio of the ZrB2 platelets. The rotation and realignment of the platelet ZrB2 grains under hot pressing led to a partially textured microstructure, which showed anisotropic mechanical properties on different directions of the as-sintered samples. A roadmap of the reaction process, microstructure evolution and texture formation was given to describe the preparation of partially textured ZrB2–MoSi2 composites by reactive hot pressing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

ZrB2–20 vol.% MoSi2 composites with elongated ZrB2 grains were prepared by reactive hot pressing using Zr, Si, B and Mo as raw materials. The ductile behavior of MoSi2 at high temperature helped the rod-like ZrB2 grains align under the applied pressure during sintering, resulting in a partly textured composite. The anisotropic growth of ZrB2 grains improved the toughness of the composite remarkably. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Four kinds of composites, ZrB2–SiC, ZrB2–SiC–ZrC, ZrB2–SiC–ZrN and ZrB2–SiC–AlN, were synthesized in situ via reactive hot pressing (RHP) and reactive spark plasma sintering (R-SPS), using Zr, Si, B4C, BN and Al as raw materials. The synthesis process plays a critical role in the microstructural features of the composites obtained. The R-SPS process can lead to a more homogeneous and finer microstructure due to its high heating rates and short holding time, while the RHP process is likely to result in coarse microstructures due to a long enough holding time for grains growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Three new POM-based coordination polymers, [Cu(timb)2(W6O19)]n (1), {[Zn3(Htimb)2(H2timb)2(H2O)2(ZnW12O40)2]·2H2O}n (2), and {[Ni(Htimb)(H2O)3(H2W12O40)0.5]·3H2O}n (3) (timb = 1,3,5-tris(1-imidazolyl)benzene), have been prepared under hydrothermal conditions. Compound 1 contains one 3D framework constructed by CuII atoms and timb ligands with a rare 3,6-connected pyr topology, while the polyoxoanions are situated in the cavities. For compound 2, the 3D framework is composed of a 2,4-connected network (A) and hcb network (B) in the BBABB mode. The 1D chains of compound 3 are arranged into a 3D framework by a variety of hydrogen bonding interactions between the [H2W12O40]6− polyoxoanions, coordinated water molecules and free water molecules. Magnetic data of compounds 1 and 3 show the presence of antiferromagnetic behavior. In addition, the highest proton conductivities of compounds 2 and 3 reach 2.32 × 10−5 S cm−1 and 3.38 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 358 K and 98% RH, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: ZrB2–SiC composite powders have been synthesized by combustion synthesis in air, using a mixture of Zr, B4C and Si as raw materials. It was found that the air atmosphere has played an important role in the ignition process of the SHS reaction. Three other kinds of ZrB2–SiC–ZrC composite powders with different ZrC content were also synthesized, and the ignition time has been measured for better understanding the ignition mechanism. As a result, the composite powders with particle size smaller than 1 µm and oxygen content as low as 0.4 wt.% were obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A ZrB2–SiC–ZrC composite was prepared from a mixture of zirconium, silicon, and B4C via reactive hot pressing at a relatively low temperature (1800°C) for 60 min under 20 MPa in an argon atmosphere. The relative density was 96.8%, the micro-hardness (Hv10) was 16.7 GPa, and the fracture toughness was 5.1 MPa·m1/2. The presence of ZrC was helpful for the densification process and improved the mechanical properties of the composite. A model of the microstructure development of the composite was proposed to explain the phase distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reducing asthma exacerbations is a major target of current clinical guidelines, but identifying features of exacerbation-prone asthma (EPA) using multidimensional assessment (MDA) is lacking. Objective: To systemically explore the clinical and inflammatory features of adults with EPA in a Chinese population. Methods: We designed a cross-sectional study using the Severe Asthma Web-based Database from the Australasian Severe Asthma Network (ASAN). Eligible Chinese adults with asthma (n = 546) were assessed using MDA. We stratified patients based on exacerbation frequency: none, few (1 or 2), and exacerbation prone (≥3). Univariate and multivariable negative binomial regression analyses were performed to investigate features associated with the frequency of exacerbations. Results: Of 546 participants, 61.9% had no exacerbations (n = 338), 29.6% had few exacerbations (n = 162), and 8.4% were exacerbation prone (n = 46) within the preceding year. EPA patients were characterized by elevated blood and sputum eosinophils but less atopy, with more controller therapies but worse asthma control and quality of life (all p < 0.05). In multivariable models, blood and sputum eosinophils (adjusted rate ratio = 2.23, 95% confidence interval = [1.26, 3.84] and 1.67 [1.27, 2.21], respectively), FEV1 (0.90 [0.84, 0.96]), bronchodilator responsiveness (1.16 [1.05, 1.27]), COPD (2.22 [1.41, 3.51]), bronchiectasis (2.87 [1.69, 4.89]), anxiety (2.56 [1.10, 5.95]), and depression (1.94 [1.20, 3.13]) were found. Further, upper respiratory tract infection (1.83 [1.32, 2.54]) and food allergy (1.67 [1.23, 2.25]) were at high risk of asthma symptom triggers. Conclusion: EPA is a clinically recognizable phenotype associated with several recognizable traits that could be addressed by targeted treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis is characterized by an increased and altered deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that make up excessive tissue scarring and promote chronic liver injury. Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a pivotal cellular event in the progression of liver fibrosis. However, the mechanisms involved in the development of liver fibrosis are only now beginning to be unveiled. The Notch pathway is a fundamental and highly conserved pathway able to control cell-fate, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, regeneration and other cellular activities. Recently, the deregulation of Notch cascade has been found involved in many pathological processes, including liver fibrosis. These data give evidence for a role for Notch signaling in liver fibrosis. In addition，more and more date are available on the role of Notch pathways in the process. Therefore, this review focuses on the current knowledge about the Notch signaling pathway, which dramatically takes part in HSC activation and liver fibrosis, and look ahead on new perspectives of Notch signaling pathway research. Furthermore, we will summarize this new evidence on the different interactions in Notch signaling pathway-regulated liver fibrosis, and support the potentiality of putative biomarkers and unique therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel bilayer polymer nanocomposites were prepared via tape casting and hot-pressing. • PEI-3 vol% BT/PVDF bilayer composite exhibits the highest η of 84.48% and U d of 8 J·cm−3. • The Bilayer composites have excellent charging-discharging cycling stability, which is beneficial for actual applications. Dielectric polymer nanocomposite films have been widely studied because of their high polarization and electric breakdown strength, leading to high discharge energy density (U d). However, nanocomposites with high U d often show low discharge energy efficiency (η). In order to achieve both high U d and η simultaneously, a series of novel bilayer polymer nanocomposite films composed of pure polyetherimide (PEI) layer and BaTiO 3 -dispersed poly(1,1-difluoroethylene) (BT/PVDF) layer were prepared by hot-pressing method in this work. The bilayer composites exhibit high η > 84% at 600 MV⋅m−1, which are much larger than most reported values (η < 70%). Specially, the highest η of 84.48% and U d of 8 J·cm−3 at 600 MV·m−1 were obtained for the bilayer films composed of PEI and 3 vol% BT/PVDF layers, which is promising for pulsed power applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive, accurate, free of oxygen interference electrochemical sensing approach was developed in this study for H 2 O 2 level, an important parameter in clinical, biological and environmental fields. A boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode was modified with mesoporous platinum (MPrPt) by electrodeposition of Pt–Cu alloy and anodic dissolution of Cu from the alloy, followed by the electropolymerization of a poly(pyrrole-3-carboxylic acid) (PPy3C) and polypyrrole (PPy) (PPy3C: PPy = 4:1, molar ratio) copolymer. SEM micrographs revealed that MPrPt irregularly spreads on the BDD surface as ~ 100 nm mesoporous and snow-flake-like nanoclusters, with a pore size of 10 ~ 15 nm, and a trace amount of remnant Cu. The resulting Pt roughness factor and the effective surface area of the MPrPt/BDD were significantly larger, and its charge-transfer resistance was much smaller than those of the Pt nanoparticle modified BDD electrode. The PPy3C–PPy/MPrPt/BDD electrode exhibited very much sensitive, selective, precise, accurate, stable, reproducible, and a wide linear range of H 2 O 2 responses at neutral pH under ambient condition, with similar sensitivity and S/N ratio to those under nitrogen protection. The limit of detection (LOD) for H 2 O 2 was 2 μM, with linearity range of 5 μM ~ 49 mM (4 orders of magnitude). The BDD substrate, MPrPt, and the PPy3C–PPy copolymer together exerted a synergic effect to the prominent sensing performance. The detection was free from endogenous oxygen interference, one of the most critical issues in microanalysis, in vivo monitoring and field applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great interest to synthesize boron carbide nanomaterials and explore their novel properties. We reported the synthesis of belt-like Si-doped boron carbide nanomaterials at a low temperature of 1500 °C with no catalyst. The structures and formation mechanism were investigated. Broad photoluminescence spectra between 400 and 500 nm were observed under 380 nm light excitation. The mechanism of the blue shift of the as-received samples in comparison with the reported boron carbide nanostructured materials is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Binderless WC ceramics were prepared by reactive spark plasma sintering, using tungsten trioxide, tungsten and carbon black as the starting materials. Phase assemblages and microstructure of the as-sintered ceramics were investigated. It was found that graphite existed as an impurity phase due to the volatilization of WO3, and W could compensate for the WO3 loss to form WC with a single phase. Benefiting from the enhanced sinterability, WC ceramics with high relative density and good hardness could be obtained at temperature as low as 1500°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Zirconium carbide and hafnium carbide ceramics were prepared by reactive spark plasma sintering, using oxides and carbon black as the raw materials. The phase and microstructure evolution during the sintering process was investigated. It was found that ZrC and HfC powder intermediates were formed at 1750 and 1800°C, respectively. Due to the high sinterability of the in situ formed carbide particles, samples with a fine microstructure could be densified at a relatively low temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We investigate the high-temperature compressive deformation behavior of a novel, fully dense and structurally uniform, 20 vol% multiwalled carbon nanotube ( MWCNT)-α- Al2 O3 matrix hybrid, which has a strong room-temperature interfacial shear resistance ( ISR) and a unique MWCNT-concentrated grain-boundary ( GB) structure. We realized a perfect plastic deformation at 1400°C and a rather high initial strain rate of 10−4 s−1 by a low ~30 MPa flow stress, which is contrary to the strain hardening response of fine-grain monolithic Al2 O3. This unique performance in CNT-ceramic system in compression is explained as follows: the concentrated network of individual MWCNTs perfectly withstands the high-temperature and shear/compressive forces, and strongly preserves the nanostructure of Al2 O3 matrix by preventing the dynamic grain growth, even during a large ~44% deformation. Furthermore, the presence of large amount of radially soft/elastic, highly energy-absorbing MWCNTs in the GB and specially multiple junction areas, and a potentially weak 1400°C- ISR, could greatly facilitate the GB sliding process (despite the hybrid's strong room-temperature ISR), as evidenced by the formation of some submicrometer-scale MWCNT aggregates in GB area, the equiaxed grains and dislocation-free nanostructure of the deformed hybrid. The results presented here could be attractive for the ceramic forming industry and could be regarded as a reference for oxide systems in which, the GB areas are occupied with soft/elastic, highly energy-absorbing nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to dramatic growth of the aging population worldwide, there has been an urgent call for a public health strategy to manage healthy aging, with the ultimate goal being advancement of aging research. Considerable progress has been made in uncovering the mystery of aging process using multidisciplinary methods. There is a growing consensus in the field that aging traits which were originally thought to be disparate are likely to be interconnected. Thus, emerging research is needed to incorporate current findings of aging by building multiscale network models. This study reported the network of healthy aging research using bibliometric approaches. Based on the results, aging of the brain and muscle is a primary research focus which is a critical part of the multiscale network regulating the aging process. Among aging-associated diseases, Alzheimer's disease and frailty are among the main research focuses, and emerging work has focused on developing diagnostic tools for these diseases. For research on anti-aging interventions, calorie restriction, physical activity, and anti-aging pharmacology are the main interventions, of which the underlying mechanisms have been comprehensively studied in animal models. Highlights • A comprehensive and integrative view of current research findings on healthy aging • Brain and muscle aging is the research focus and regulating aging throughout the body • Alzheimer's disease and frailty are the intensively studied aging-associated diseases • Calorie restriction, exercise, and drugs are the majority anti-aging interventions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first comprehensive review on inherent anisotropic features of transition metal diboride (MB 2 ) and their implementation for tailoring the microstructure and properties of MB 2 -based Ultra-high temperature Ceramics (UHTCs). The emphasis is on the processing approaches, microstructures, and properties of self-reinforced and/or textured MB 2 -based composites with elongated MB 2 grains. The crystal structure characteristics and grain growth behaviour of MB 2 are also critically reviewed. Benefiting from the tailored microstructure, the MB 2 -based ceramics exhibit some improved properties. Considering the success of Si 3 N 4 ceramics in the field of structural ceramics, it is expected that the potential MB 2 -based ceramic composites with abundant elongated MB 2 grains, textured structures, and controlled grain boundaries would possess improved fracture toughness, thermal shock resistance, and reliable high-temperature properties, which are desired for their practical applications. Accordingly, microstructure designing and tailoring provide an important perspective for the future development of UHTCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, 0.99(0.94Bi 0.47 Na 0.47 Ba 0.06 TiO 3 -0.06BiAlO 3)-0.01NaNbO 3 lead-free ceramics were synthesized by means of different methods including conventional solid state sintering (SSS), cold-sintering-assisted sintering (CSS), and spark plasma sintering (SPS) methods. Their microstructure and dielectric properties were studied comparatively. The ceramics via SPS and SSS exhibit pure structure, while a secondary phase exists in the ceramics via CSS. Compared to SSS, CSS and SPS can obviously reduce the processing temperatures for obtaining dense ceramics. The ceramics via SPS have the smallest mean grain size of 80 nm, while those via CSS and SSS exhibit increased grain sizes. The dielectric measurement demonstrates that temperature stability in dielectric constant at high temperatures is affected by sintering methods. The SPS sample shows the poorest temperature stability of permittivity. The ceramics post-annealed at 1050 °C via CSS exhibits the widest temperature range between 49 °C and 412 °C for temperature coefficient of capacitance ≤±15%, which can be expected to be used in the field of high-temperature capacitors. • BNBTA-0.01NN ceramics were prepared via the three methods including SPS, CSS, SSS. • Processing temperatures for obtaining dense ceramics are reduced via CSS and SPS. • Ceramics annealed at 1050 °C via CSS show TCC ≤±15% between 49 °C and 412 °C. • Temperature window of 363 °C is much higher than the requirement of X9R standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite of good oxidation resistance and ablation resistance, challenge to densify and tendency to loss high temperature (H.T.) strength have limited its potential applications in aerospace for HfB 2 –SiC ceramic. In this work, dense HfB 2 –SiC ceramic with improved H.T. flexural strength was prepared using WC as sintering aid. Pure HfB 2 –SiC ceramic exhibited creep deformation at 1600 °C with measured strength value of 389 ± 82 MPa, whereas WC doped sample showed much higher flexural strength of 658 ± 69 MPa with linear elastic behavior prior to fracture. In addition to clean grain boundary, the addition of 5 vol.%WC into HfB 2 –SiC ceramic promoted the formation of fine (Hf,W)B 2 , (Hf,W)C and WB precipitates. This combinative effect is responsible for its excellent H.T. mechanical property of WC doped HfB 2 –SiC ceramic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the isolation of an endophytic fungus from the leaves of the medicinal herb adlay ( Coix lacryma- jobi L. var. ma- yuen Stapf) is reported for the first time. The fungus produced Triolein (trioleoylglycerol), a major constituent of triacylglycerols (TAGs) of adlay, in rice medium under shake-flask and bench-scale fermentation conditions. The fungus was identified as Gibberella moniliformis ( Fusarium verticillioides) by its morphology and authenticated by ITS analysis (ITS1 and ITS2 regions and the intervening 5.8S rDNA region). Triolein was identified by HPLC-ELSD coupled with APCI-MS and confirmed through comparison with authentic standard. The concentration of triolein produced by G. moniliformis AH13 reached 2.536 ± 0.006 mg/g dry weight of mycelium. Moreover, the EtOAc extract of G. moniliformis AH13 showed strong antitumor activity against four types of tumor cells (A549, HCT116, MDA-MB-231, and SW1990). These results suggest that G. moniliformis AH13 in adlay has significant scientific and industrial potential to meet the pharmaceutical demands and sustainable energy requirements for TAGs in a cost-effective, easily accessible, and reproducible way and is also a potential novel source of natural antitumor bioactive agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textured and platelet-reinforced ZrB2-based ultra-high-temperature ceramics (UHTCs) are prepared via reactive hot pressing and successive hot forging. The textured materials display significantly anisotropic mechanical properties, and the flexural strength has been improved by 52% owing to the orderly arrangement of platelet ZrB2 grains. The texturing of ZrB2-based platelet composites should open up an effective approach to optimizing the properties of ZrB2-based UHTCs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: By using the unique properties of the efficient orange–red phosphorescent osmium complex in combination with an efficient blue phosphorescent Iridium complex, efficient white organic light-emitting devices with forward viewing efficiencies up to (17% photon/electron, 36cd/A, 28lm/W) and white organic light-emitting devices with color stability vs. brightness can be implemented. Results show that the osmium complex is a multi-functional material that not only has high emission efficiency, but also possesses the effective hole trapping capability, which is useful for balancing hole/electron transport and controlling the emission zones when doped at appropriate locations of the device. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Study Design: Case report. Objective: To report a case of cervical myelopathy due to simultaneous anomalies at the level of atlas involving hypoplasia of the posterior arch of the atlas, partial ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament, and hypertrophy of the dens. Summary Of Background Data: Hypoplasia of the posterior arch of the atlas, ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament, and hypertrophy of the dens are all individually very rare clinical entities. We are not aware of previous reports describing the association of hypoplasia of the posterior arch of the atlas, partial ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament, and hypertrophy of the dens. Methods: The patient's medical history, physical examination, and radiographic evaluation are examined. Surgical treatment and clinical outcome are reported. In addition, available literature is also reviewed. Results: The patient's neurologic symptoms significantly improved after posterior decompressive surgery. Conclusion: We believe this is the first case of cervical myelopathy caused by simultaneous anomalies at the level of atlas involving hypoplasia of the posterior arch of the atlas, partial ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament, and hypertrophy of the dens. Surgical intervention improved the neurologic impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]