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Background: The blood–brain barrier serves as a critical interface between the bloodstream and brain tissue, mainly composed of pericytes, neurons, endothelial cells, and tightly connected basal membranes. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding brain from harmful substances, thus protecting the integrity of the nervous system and preserving overall brain homeostasis. However, this remarkable selective transmission also poses a formidable challenge in the realm of central nervous system diseases treatment, hindering the delivery of large-molecule drugs into the brain. In response to this challenge, many researchers have devoted themselves to developing drug delivery systems capable of breaching the blood–brain barrier. Among these, blood–brain barrier penetrating peptides have emerged as promising candidates. These peptides had the advantages of high biosafety, ease of synthesis, and exceptional penetration efficiency, making them an effective drug delivery solution. While previous studies have developed a few prediction models for blood–brain barrier penetrating peptides, their performance has often been hampered by issue of limited positive data. Results: In this study, we present Augur, a novel prediction model using borderline-SMOTE-based data augmentation and machine learning. we extract highly interpretable physicochemical properties of blood–brain barrier penetrating peptides while solving the issues of small sample size and imbalance of positive and negative samples. Experimental results demonstrate the superior prediction performance of Augur with an AUC value of 0.932 on the training set and 0.931 on the independent test set. Conclusions: This newly developed Augur model demonstrates superior performance in predicting blood–brain barrier penetrating peptides, offering valuable insights for drug development targeting neurological disorders. This breakthrough may enhance the efficiency of peptide-based drug discovery and pave the way for innovative treatment strategies for central nervous system diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction mechanism of plasma spraying TiO 2 -Al composite powder and the formation mechanism of the in-situ microstructure were revealed through thermal analysis, quenching experiments, simulation calculation and microstructure characterization. The reaction process of the TiO 2 -Al system was accomplished in a two-step reaction. Reaction 1 was: Al+TiO 2 →Al 2 O 3 +Ti n O 2n-1 /Al x Ti y ；Reaction 2 was: Al x Ti y +Ti n O 2n-1 →Al 2 O 3 +Ti w O. The starting reaction temperature of the TiO 2 -Al composite powder with a molar ratio of 3:4 was about 800 °C, and the reaction can be fully carried out at 1200 °C. The reaction types of Al and TiO 2 under plasma spraying conditions were solid-liquid and liquid-liquid reactions. The molecular dynamics trajectory shows that the reaction between Al and TiO 2 was carried out by Al continuously capturing O in TiO 2 , but not all O in TiO 2 was captured by Al. During the cooling solidification stage, the main phase-separation mechanisms of the TiO 2 -Al droplet were nucleation-growth mechanism and spinodal decomposition mechanism. In the metastable alumina-titanium oxide coating, the spinodal decomposition mechanism corresponds to self-locking microstructure, while the nucleation and growth mechanism corresponds to fine crystal and intracrystalline/intergranular microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interpretability of machine learning models, even though with an excellent prediction performance, remains a challenge in practical applications. The model interpretability and variable importance for well‐performed supervised machine learning models are investigated in this study. With the commonly accepted concept of odds ratio (OR), we propose a novel and computationally efficient Variable Importance evaluation framework based on the Personalized Odds Ratio (VIPOR). It is a model‐agnostic interpretation method that can be used to evaluate variable importance both locally and globally. Locally, the variable importance is quantified by the personalized odds ratio (POR), which can account for subject heterogeneity in machine learning. Globally, we utilize a hierarchical tree to group the predictors into five groups: completely positive, completely negative, positive dominated, negative dominated, and neutral groups. The relative importance of predictors within each group is ranked based on different statistics of PORs across subjects for different application purposes. For illustration, we apply the proposed VIPOR method to interpreting a multilayer perceptron (MLP) model, which aims to predict the mortality of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) patients using real‐world electronic health records (EHR) data. We compare the important variables derived from MLP with other machine learning models, including tree‐based models and the L1‐regularized logistic regression model. The top importance variables are consistently identified by VIPOR across different prediction models. Comparisons with existing interpretation methods are also conducted and discussed based on publicly available data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Pulmonary drug delivery has gained great attention in local or systemic diseases therapy, however it is still difficult to scale-up DPI production due to the complexity of interactions taking place in DPI systems and limited understanding between flowability and inter-particle interactions in DPI formulations. Therefore, finding some quantitative parameters related to DPI delivery performance for predicting the in vitro drug deposition behavior is essential. Therefore, this study introduces a potential model for predicting aerodynamic performance of carrier-based DPIs, as well to find more relevant fine powder size and optimal shape to improve aerodynamic performance. Using salbutamol sulfate as a model drug, Lactohale®206 as coarse carrier, Lactohale®300, Lactohale®230, and Lactohale®210 as third fine components individually, the mixtures were prepared at 1% (w/w) drug content accompanied with carriers and the third component (ranging from 3% to 7%), influence of lactose fines size on DPI formulation's rheological and aerodynamic properties was investigated. The optimum drug particle shape was also confirmed by computer fluid dynamics model. This study proved that pulmonary deposition efficiency could be improved by decreasing lactose fines size. Only fines in the size range of 0–11 μm have a good linear relationship with FPF, attributed to the fluidization energy enhancement and aggregates mechanism. Once exceeding 11 μm, fine lactose would act as a second carrier, with increased drug adhesion. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models indicated fibrous drug particles were beneficial to transfer to the deep lung. Furthermore, good correlations between rheological parameters and FPF of ternary mixtures with different lactose fines were established, and it was disclosed that the FPF was more dependent on interaction parameters than that of flowability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boronic ester is a kind of well-known and active dynamic covalent bond. Yet preparing an even boronic ester crosslinked network from boronic acid containing polymers and diol containing polymers remains challenging because the reaction between boronic acid and diol is so fast that by now blocking boronic acid/diol (in the form of boronic ester) or special mixing procedures are required. In this work, a series of storage-stable and self-crosslinkable combinations of boronic acid (2%, 4% and 8%, in mol%) containing polymer latices and diol (2%, 4% and 8%, in mol%) containing polymer latices were achieved by simply mixing the two types of latex dispersions, without using any blocking agents or special mixing procedure. In the combined dispersions, water as the dispersion medium isolates boronic acids and diol groups, while the combined latices can undergo self-crosslinking via the encounters of boronic acid and diols during the latex film formation. Target synthetic products were confirmed by NMR, UV–vis absorption, FT-IR and Raman spectra. The combined latices have simultaneously ensured the even mixing, storage stability (60 °C for 1 month or room temperature for 6 months) and self-crosslinking (examined by DMA, Soxhlet extractions, up to 97% gel content). The method of respectively preparing and then combining the two types of latices is better in polymerization stability, toughness, and wettability, compared to the method of preparing crosslinked polymer with the comparable divinyl boronic ester crosslinker (1%, 2% and 4%, in mol%). With these advantages, the method of combining such highly reactive polymers by utilizing the features of latex systems is inspirational in the fields of colloid science and reactive polymers. [Display omitted] • Direct mixing of boronic acid containing polymers and diol containing polymers. • The VBA/GMMA latex combinations possess excellent storage stability. • The VBA/GMMA latex combinations establish self-crosslinking while being filmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pressureless two‐step sintering method was used to densify high‐entropy carbide (Ti0.2Zr0.2Hf0.2Nb0.2Ta0.2)C, with high density and good mechanical performance. The material was heated up to 2200°C and subsequently soaked at 1900°C for 2–8 h with the incorporation of 2–4 wt.% phenolic resin. With increasing resin content, the large‐sized pores disappeared, and the average grain size decreased. However, with increased holding time from 2 to 8 h, the average grain and pore size did not change significantly, the density increased up to 96.2%, and evident grain growth of graphite was observed. The mechanical properties of (Ti0.2Zr0.2Hf0.2Nb0.2Ta0.2)C with 4 wt.% phenolic resin addition and 8 h soaking at 1900°C were measured as follows: flexural strength 361±28 MPa, Vickers hardness 16.0±0.3 GPa, and elastic modulus 426±2 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute cadmium (Cd) exposure is a significant risk factor for renal injury and lacks effective treatment strategies. Ferroptosis is a recently identified iron-dependent form of nonapoptotic cell death mediated by membrane damage resulting from lipid peroxidation, and it is implicated in many diseases. However, whether ferroptosis is involved in Cd-induced renal injury and, if so, how it operates. Here, we show that Cd can induce ferroptosis in kidney and renal tubular epithelial cells, as demonstrated by elevation of intracellular iron levels and lipid peroxidation, as well as impaired antioxidant production. Treatment with a ferroptosis inhibitor alleviated Cd-induced cell death. Intriguingly, we established that Cd-induced ferroptosis depended on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, by demonstrating that Cd activated the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP pathway and that inhibition of ER stress reduced ferroptosis caused by Cd. We further found that autophagy was required for Cd-induced ferroptosis because the inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine mitigated Cd-induced ferroptosis. Furthermore, we showed that iron dysregulation by ferritinophagy contributed to Cd-induced ferroptosis, by showing that the iron chelator desferrioxamine alleviated Cd-induced cell death and lipid peroxidation. In addition, ER stress is likely activated by MitoROS which trigger autophagy and ferroptosis. Collectively, our results indicate that ferroptosis is involved in Cd-induced renal toxicity and regulated by the MitoROS-ER stress-ferritinophagy axis. [Display omitted] • Cadmium (Cd) exposure induces ferroptosis in mice and renal tubular epithelial cells. • ER stress is required for Cd-induced ferroptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells. • ER stress-mediated ferritinophagy promotes ferroptosis by the degradation of ferritin. • Mitochondrial ROS manipulates the ER stress-autophagy triggered ferroptosis caused by Cd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel (Hf 0.2 Zr 0.2 Ta 0.2 Nb 0.2 Ti 0.2)C high-entropy ceramic was successfully prepared by pressureless sintering at 2200 °C. With increasing content of resin-derived-carbon, the density, and mechanical and thermal properties increased up to a maximum content of 2∼4 wt% resin addition, after which further addition was detrimental. All specimens showed high strength (≥347±36 MPa), with the highest value achieving 450±64 MPa, and fracture toughness significantly higher (>20 %) than those of the corresponding monocarbides and Ta 0.5 Hf 0.5 C, (Ta 1/3 Zr 1/3 Nb 1/3)C. The thermal conductivity was approximately equivalent to the lowest value of the corresponding mono-carbides, which was assumed to be due to the lattice distortion effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is often devastating with increased early mortality, particularly in those with presumed delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). The ability to accurately predict survival for SAH patients during the hospital course would provide valuable information for healthcare providers, patients, and families. This study aims to utilize electronic health record (EHR) data and machine learning approaches to predict the adverse outcome for nontraumatic SAH adult patients. Methods: The cohort included nontraumatic SAH patients treated with vasopressors for presumed DCI from a large EHR database, the Cerner Health Facts® EMR database (2000–2014). The outcome of interest was the adverse outcome, defined as death in hospital or discharged to hospice. Machine learning‐based models were developed and primarily assessed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: A total of 2467 nontraumatic SAH patients (64% female; median age [interquartile range]: 56 [47–66]) who were treated with vasopressors for presumed DCI were included in the study. 934 (38%) patients died or were discharged to hospice. The model achieved an AUC of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.84–0.92) with only the initial 24 h EHR data, and 0.94 (95% CI, 0.92–0.96) after the next 24 h. Interpretation: EHR data and machine learning models can accurately predict the risk of the adverse outcome for critically ill nontraumatic SAH patients. It is possible to use EHR data and machine learning techniques to help with clinical decision‐making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioma is the most prevalent brain malignancy with high mortality. In recent decades, the regulatory role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been unmasked in glioma. In this study, we focused on the function and mechanism of LINC00641 in glioma. First of all, we found that LINC00641 was expressed at a low level in glioma cell lines. Importantly, overexpression of LINC00641 prevented cell proliferation but enhanced cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, NRGN, a previously-reported downregulated mRNA in GBM, was disclosed as a tumor suppressor in glioma cells. Besides, we verified that NRGN could be positively regulated by LINC00641 in glioma cells. Moreover, the cellular distribution of LINC00641 was identified to be cytoplasmic. Therefore, bioinformatics analysis and mechanism experiments were carried out and we determined that miR-4262 was the shared miRNA between LINC00641 and NRGN. In contrast to LINC00641 and NRGN, miR-4262 was dramatically upregulated in glioma cells. Furthermore, we confirmed that LINC00641 acted as a ceRNA in glioma cells via absorbing miR-4262 to upregulate NRGN. More importantly, silenced NRGN countervailed the repression on glioma cell proliferation caused by LINC00641 upregulation. Collectively, our findings unveiled that LINC00641 serves as a tumor inhibitor in glioma by targeting miR-4262/NRGN axis, providing a new potential therapeutic target for glioma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al2O3-ZrO2 and Al2O3-ZrO2-TiO2 composite coatings were prepared by plasma spraying. The effects of TiO2 on the microstructure evolution and thermal shock resistance of the Al2O3-ZrO2 coating at high temperature were investigated. The results show that there was no phase transformation present in the two coatings after heat treatment at 800°C, and they were composed of t-ZrO2, α-Al2O3 and γ-Al2O3 phases. The Al2O3-ZrO2 coating after heat treatment at 1200°C consisted of t-ZrO2 and α-Al2O3, and the Al2O3-ZrO2-TiO2 coating consisted of t-ZrO2, α-Al2O3 and rutile-TiO2. The high temperature heat treatment reduced the porosity of the two coatings, and the hardness of the two coatings increased first and then decreased. The thermal shock resistance of the two coatings could be improved effectively by spraying the bonding layer and selecting TC4 titanium alloy as the substrate. And the Al2O3-ZrO2-TiO2 coating had a longer thermal cycle life than the Al2O3-ZrO2 coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Grandmothers (vs. mothers) in urban China taught toddlers more advanced concepts. • Grandmothers (vs. mothers) in urban China were more dominant during block play. • Grandmothers (vs. mothers) in urban China showed more negative affect and feedback. • Chinese caregivers' interaction styles were related to toddlers' effortful control. The goal of this study was to compare two generations of Chinese caregivers (N = 129) in terms of their interactions with toddlers during block play. We additionally explored the associations between caregivers' interaction styles and toddlers' effortful control. Caregivers were mothers (n = 68, mean age = 33.56 years) and grandmothers (n = 61, mean age = 59.17 years) from 70 families in urban China. Concepts (block construction, body parts and color, literacy, and math) taught by caregivers at basic and advanced levels as well as their interaction styles (dominance, positive and negative feedback, positive and negative affect) were coded from semi-structured home observations. Caregivers also reported on children's effortful control. Compared to mothers, grandmothers taught at more advanced levels, dominated the interaction more, displayed less positive affect as well as more negative affect and negative feedback toward children. Moreover, mothers' dominance and negativity during block play were uniquely associated with lower levels of child effortful control. Findings advance knowledge of intergenerational differences in caregivers' interactions with young children in a rapidly changing society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of RNA molecules that do not have the potential to encode proteins. Meanwhile, they can occupy a significant portion of the human genome and participate in gene expression regulation through various mechanisms. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pathologic condition of carbohydrate intolerance that begins or is first detected during pregnancy, making it one of the most common pregnancy complications. Although the exact pathogenesis of GDM remains unclear, several recent studies have shown that ncRNAs play a crucial regulatory role in GDM. Herein, we present a comprehensive review on the multiple mechanisms of ncRNAs in GDM along with their potential role as biomarkers. In addition, we investigate the contribution of deep learning-based models in discovering disease-specific ncRNA biomarkers and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ncRNA. This might assist community-wide efforts to obtain insights into the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in disease and guide a novel approach for early diagnosis and treatment of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing oil demand, the construction of oil energy reserves in China needs to be further strengthened. However, given that there has been no research on the main influencing factors of crude oil temperature drop in storage tanks under actual dynamically changing environments, this paper considers the influence of dynamic thermal environment and internal crude oil physical properties on the fluctuating changes in crude oil temperature. A theoretical model of the unsteady-state temperature drop heat transfer process is developed from a three-dimensional perspective. According to the temperature drop variation law of crude oil storage tank under the coupling effect of various heat transfer modes such as external forced convection, thermal radiation, and internal natural convection, the external dynamic thermal environment influence zone, the internal crude oil physical property influence zone, and the intermediate transition zone of the tank are proposed. And the multiple non-linear regression method is used to quantitatively characterize the influence of external ambient temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, internal crude oil density, viscosity, and specific heat capacity on the temperature drop of crude oil in each influencing zone. The results of this paper not only quantitatively explain the main influencing factors of the oil temperature drop in the top, wall, and bottom regions of the tank, but also provide a theoretical reference for oil security reserves under a dynamic thermal environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 1918 influenza pandemic was characterized by multiple epidemic waves. We investigated reactive social distancing, a form of behavioral response where individuals avoid potentially infectious contacts in response to available information on an ongoing epidemic or pandemic. We modelled its effects on the three influenza waves in the United Kingdom. In previous studies, human behavioral response was modelled by a Power function of the proportion of recent influenza mortality in a population, and by a Hill function, which is a function of the number of recent influenza mortality. Using a simple epidemic model with a Power function and one common set of parameters, we provided a good model fit for the observed multiple epidemic waves in London boroughs, Birmingham and Liverpool. We further applied the model parameters from these three cities to all 334 administrative units in England and Wales and including the population sizes of individual administrative units. We computed the Pearson’s correlation between the observed and simulated for each administrative unit. We found a median correlation of 0.636, indicating that our model predictions are performing reasonably well. Our modelling approach is an improvement from previous studies where separate models are fitted to each city. With the reduced number of model parameters used, we achieved computational efficiency gain without over-fitting the model. We also showed the importance of reactive behavioral distancing as a potential non-pharmaceutical intervention during an influenza pandemic. Our work has both scientific and public health significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sappanone A (SA) is isolated from the heartwood of Caesalpinia sappan and exerts a wide range of pharmacological activities. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of SA on allergic asthma in a murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma. Methods: BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged. Then, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with SA (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/ kg) 1 h before OVA challenge; 24 h after the last challenge, the mice were sacrificed, and data were collected by different experimental methods. Results: The results showed that SA dose-dependently reduced inflammatory cell counts, levels of cytokines IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, and OVA-specific IgE in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. The level of IFN-γ decreased by OVA was upregulated by the treatment with SA. Furthermore, SA was found to attenuate the airway inflammation and mucus hypersecretion induced by the OVA challenge. In addition, SA dose-dependently upregulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. SA inhibited OVA-induced asthma by activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Conclusions: These data suggest that SA may have a potential use as a therapeutic agent for asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A YSZ-Al reactive system was used as raw materials for the fabrication of a novel YSZ-Al 2 O 3 composite coating by plasma spraying. Thermite reaction was triggered in the plasma jet and phases like alumina and Zr–Al intermetallics were in-situ formed in the reaction zone. Solid solution reaction occurred in the rapid solidification of the homogeneously mixed Y–Al–Zr–O superheated melt and high solubility of Al3+ was also observed in the supersaturated solid solution. Phase transitions from the reactive precursor to the coating composition and the microstructure formation of the coating lamellae were revealed by extensive characterizations including XRD, XPS, Raman, SEM, EDS, and EPMA. Good compatibility within the coating compositions and compact interlamellar bonding were obtained in the as-prepared YSZ-Al 2 O 3 composite coating. The coating's surface and cross-section Vickers hardness values were 7.48 GPa and 10.40 GPa, respectively. Additionally, the micro-zone hardness value of the eutectic area could reach 19.43 GPa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-situ Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 composite coating was fabricated from Cr-SiC composite powders using plasma spraying process. The mechanical properties and formation mechanism of plasma sprayed Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 composite coatings were investigated. The results show that the Cr and SiC in the Cr-SiC composite powders underwent solid-phase diffusion reaction to produce Cr 7 C 3 , CrSi 2 , Cr 3 C 2 and Cr 3 Si during the plasma spraying. The Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating formed by using Cr-SiC composite powders had higher density and more homogeneous microstructure distribution compared to the Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating obtained by Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 composite powders. The mechanical properties of the Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 system coating by Cr-SiC composite powders were better than that of the Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating by Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 composite powders. The excellent performance of the Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating obtained by the Cr-SiC system was mainly attributed to the finer, denser and more uniform microstructure. • Plasma sprayed Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating was prepared with two different starting powders. • The effect of Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 and Cr-SiC starting powders was analyzed. • The coating obtained by Cr-SiC starting powders had better density and structure. • The properties of the Cr-SiC coating were better than that of the Cr 7 C 3 -CrSi 2 coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative approach to improve the quality of TiC-TiSi 2 -Al 2 O 3 composite coating was demonstrated. In-situ synthesis is one of the most economical methods for preparing refractory composite coatings, but the problems of low reaction degree and poor quality of the as-prepared coatings still exist. In the present investigation, TiC-TiSi 2 -Al 2 O 3 , Al-TiO 2 -SiC and heat-treated Al-TiO 2 -SiC composite powders were plasma sprayed on the surface of TC4 titanium alloy to prepare TiC-TiSi 2 -Al 2 O 3 composite coatings, respectively. The phase composition and microstructure of the three kinds of composite powders and as-prepared coatings were analyzed, and the porosity, microhardness and fracture toughness of the coatings obtained by the three kinds of composite powders were comparatively studied. The results show that the heat-treated Al-TiO 2 -SiC composite powders had higher density and smoother surface than that of Al-TiO 2 -SiC composite powders. The pre heat treatment of Al-TiO 2 -SiC feedstock could avoid the inadequate reaction during the plasma spraying process. The coating obtained by plasma spraying heat-treated Al-TiO 2 -SiC composite powders had the highest bonding strength, microhardness (51.8% higher than Al-TiO 2 -SiC coating) and fracture toughness among the three coatings. • Density and cohesive strength of Al-TiO 2 -SiC powder were improved by heat treatment. • Al-TiO 2 -SiC powders were plasma sprayed to prepare TiC-TiSi 2 -Al 2 O 3 composite coatings. • Coating obtained by heat-treated Al-TiO 2 -SiC powder had higher hardness and toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An innovative approach to improve the quality of TiC-Ti 5 Si 3 composite coating was demonstrated. TiC-Ti 5 Si 3 composite coatings had been successfully prepared by in-situ synthesis. However, there were still problems with a low degree of reaction and poor quality of the resulting coating. In the present investigation Ti-SiC composite powders and heat-treated Ti-SiC composite powders were plasma sprayed onto the TC4 titanium alloy, respectively, for preparing titanium carbide‑titanium silicide composite coatings. The results show that the phases composition of the two composite coatings obtained by plasma spraying Ti-SiC composite powders and heat-treated Ti-SiC composite powders were TiC, Ti 5 Si 3 and SiC. However, the coating obtained by plasma spraying heat-treated Ti-SiC composite powders had higher density and more uniform distribution, and the microhardness value of the coating was increased by 34.3%, and the wear rate was reduced by 48.6% compared with the coating obtained by plasma spraying Ti-SiC composite powders. Schematic illustration of phase transformation of Ti-SiC composite powder during heat treatment at 1200 °C for 1 h (Ar gas protection). Unlabelled Image • TiC, Ti 5 Si 3 and Ti 3 SiC 2 were formed in Ti-SiC composite powder after heat treatment. • The coating obtained by heat treated Ti-SiC powder had better density and structure. • Heat treatment of Ti-SiC powder could improve the properties of the Ti-SiC coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces the development status of machine vision nondestructive testing technology and industrial IoT supervision mechanism. The study designs and implements a machine vision nondestructive testing system from two aspects: construction of industrial IoT supervision and detection model, and optimization of machine vision nondestructive testing algorithm. In this paper, the random deployment of dynamic and static nodes is adopted. The coverage rate after random deployment and the moving distance of dynamic nodes are two necessary research parameters. To improve the initial coverage and optimize the mobile path of dynamic nodes, this paper proposes a mobile deployment optimization scheme based on the supervisory mechanism model of industrial IoT, which improves the traversal of the quantum genetic algorithm by improving the genetic variation rules, thus improving the initial deployment of the network. The optimized machine vision nondestructive detection algorithm is used for mobile path optimization from dynamic nodes to target locations. Simulation results show that a random deployment of 100 static nodes and 20 dynamic nodes in a 400 m × 400 m factory area works best with a coverage rate of 6.719% and an average movement distance of 23.47 m, and the movement path avoids the obstacle area. The average accuracy of the modified machine vision nondestructive testing system is 1.59% higher than that before the modification, and the average detection accuracy of the final experiment reaches 95.46%. Not only is the coverage rate better than that of the cellular structure-based dynamic node optimization scheme, but also the monitoring range of the plant tends to be more comprehensive in the actual deployment environment. Through the analysis of test results, the system achieves the monitoring and display of data on the one hand and provides a natural information access and interaction experience for IoT managers on the other hand, which meets the requirements of real time, accuracy, and stability of industrial IoT information data to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastitis is one of the most common diseases that both affects human and animals. Morin is derived from the member of Moraceae family, which has been used in the treatment of many inflammatory diseases. The purpose of this study was to test the protective effect of morin on LPS-induced mastitis and to clarify the possible mechanism. In vivo, the mastitis model was established by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and morin was treated 1 h before stimulation of LPS. In vitro, peritoneal macrophages were used to test the regulation mechanisms of morin on mastitis. The inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) was tested by ELISA. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity was measured by MPO kit. The expression of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway proteins were detected by western blotting. The results showed that morin alleviated the pathological damage of mammary gland tissues, MPO activity, and the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in mammary gland tissues. In vitro, morin significantly suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines. In addition, it also inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB signaling pathway induced by LPS. In conclusion, the present study suggested that the protective effect of morin against LPS-induced mastitis may be due to its ability to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome expression and NF-κB signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitotic regulator, Aurora kinase B (AURKB), is frequently overexpressed in malignancy and is a target for therapeutic intervention. The compound, LXY18, is a potent, orally available small molecule that inhibits the proper localization of AURKB during late mitosis, without affecting its kinase activity. In this study, we demonstrate that LXY18 elicits apoptosis in cancer cells derived from various indications, but not in non-transformed cell lines. The apoptosis is p53-independent, triggered by a prolonged mitotic arrest and occurs predominantly in mitosis. Some additional cells succumb post-mitotic slippage. We also demonstrate that cancer cell lines refractory to AURKB kinase inhibitors are sensitive to LXY18. The mitotic proteins MKLP2, NEK6, NEK7 and NEK9 are known regulators of AURKB localization during the onset of anaphase. LXY18 fails to inhibit the catalytic activity of these AURKB localization factors. Overall, our findings suggest a novel activity for LXY18 that produces a prolonged mitotic arrest and lethality in cancer cells, leaving non-transformed cells healthy. This new activity suggests that the compound may be a promising drug candidate for cancer treatment and that it can also be used as a tool compound to further dissect the regulatory network controlling AURKB localization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver cancer has high incidence and mortality rates and its treatment generally requires the use of a combination treatment strategy. Therefore, the early detection and diagnosis of liver cancer is crucial to achieving the best treatment effect. In addition, it is imperative to explore multimodal combination therapy for liver cancer treatment and the synergistic effect of two liver cancer treatment drugs while preventing drug resistance and drug side effects to maximize the achievable therapeutic effect. Gold nanoparticles are used widely in applications related to optical imaging, CT imaging, MRI imaging, biomarkers, targeted drug therapy, etc., and serve as an advanced platform for integrated application in the nano-diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Dual-drug-delivery nano-diagnostic and therapeutic agents have drawn great interest in current times. Therefore, the present report aims to review the effectiveness of dual-drug-delivery nano-diagnostic and therapeutic agents in the field of anti-tumor therapy from the particular perspective of liver cancer diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular steel tubes (CSTs) are commonly used in building structures and mechanical equipment. Due to the deterioration caused by the surrounding environment, corrosion is inevitable for CSTs. Corrosion can decrease the loading capacity (including compression, torsional, and bending capacities) and the corresponding stiffness of CSTs. The change rule of loading capacity and stiffness along with mass loss ratio is initially revealed through stochastic numerical analysis. The artificial neural network is then utilized to predict the residual loading capacity and corresponding stiffness to quantify the influence of corrosion. Corroded thickness and mass loss ratio are regarded as the input variables of the artificial neural network. The output results include six mechanical indices of corroded CSTs. The accuracy of predicted results is compared with the results derived by stochastic numerical analysis. Results indicated that the artificial neural network can accurately predict the mean value of the reduction factor. To capture the random characteristic of the reduction factor, random corroded thickness is utilized as an input variable. Results also indicated that the artificial neural network can be utilized to predict the loading capacity and stiffness of CSTs with high accuracy, and only the corroded thickness and mass loss ratio are needed for the input variable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology, an emerging and promising therapeutic tool, may improve the effectiveness of phototherapy (PT) in antitumor therapy because of the development of nanomaterials (NMs) with light-absorbing properties. The tumor-targeted PTs, such as photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), transform light energy into heat and produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that accumulate at the tumor site. The increase in ROS levels induces oxidative stress (OS) during carcinogenesis and disease development. Because of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) feature of copper (Cu), a vital trace element in the human body, Cu-based NMs can exhibit good near-infrared (NIR) absorption and excellent photothermal properties. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), Cu2+ combines with H2O2 to produce O2 that is reduced to Cu1+ by glutathione (GSH), causing a Fenton-like reaction that reduces tumor hypoxia and simultaneously generates ROS to eliminate tumor cells in conjunction with PTT/PDT. Compared with other therapeutic modalities, PTT/PDT can precisely target tumor location to kill tumor cells. Moreover, multiple treatment modalities can be combined with PTT/PDT to treat a tumor using Cu-based NMs. Herein, we reviewed and briefly summarized the mechanisms of actions of tumor-targeted PTT/PDT and the role of Cu, generated from Cu-based NMs, in PTs. Furthermore, we described the Cu-based NMs used in PTT/PDT applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of technical details of percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) on the clinical outcomes of patients with infected necrotizing pancreatitis (INP). Materials and methods: A total of 44 INP patients treated in our hospital from October 2013 to October 2015 were included. The correlations of the first PCD treatment data and the clinical outcomes were analyzed. Results: The number of catheters was positively correlated with hospital readmission (r = 0.335, P = 0.032). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that patients with = 3 catheters were more likely to have hospital readmission. Patients with pleural effusion undergoing thoracentesis were more likely to have new intensive care unit admission (P = 0.025) and bleeding in need of intervention (P = 0.032). Patients with more effusion regions had higher incidences of mortality (P = 0.012) and new intensive care unit admissions (2.44 ± 1.03 vs. 1.88 ± 0.80; P = 0.059). Patients with PCD only were less likely to have new intensive care unit admissions (22.22% vs. 54.55%; P = 0.038) than those with PCD + small incision or/and videoscopic assisted retroperitoneal debridement. Conclusion: Number of catheters greater than three was associated with unfavorable outcomes of PCD treatment in INP patients. Patients that received PCD treatment only had better outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Porous nanostructured ZrO 2 coatings were prepared on the surface of TC4 titanium alloy by plasma spraying. The porosity of the coatings was improved by adding MDPE and PEEK as pore-forming agents in the ZrO 2 powder. The results indicate that the addition of pore-forming agents significantly increased the porosity of the ZrO 2 coatings, and the porosity of the ZrO 2 coatings increased with increasing the content of the pore-forming agents. PEEK pore-forming agent was superior to MDPE concerning the pore-forming ability in the present preparation condition. The porosity of the ZrO 2 coatings was further increased by subsequent heat treatment. The porosity of ZrO 2 –15% PEEK coating after heat treatment reached 20.6%. The microhardness of the porous nanostructured ZrO 2 coatings were about HV 0.1 1000, which decreased little with the increase of the porosity of the coatings. Highlights • The porous nanostructured ZrO 2 coatings were prepared by plasma spraying. • MDPE and PEEK were used as pore-forming agents to form ZrO 2 composite powders. • The porosity of ZrO 2 coatings increased with increasing of the pore-forming agents. • Heat treatment can further increase the porosity of the ZrO 2 -PEEK coatings. • The microstructure formation models of porous ZrO 2 coatings were established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A barrier to widespread adoption of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is toxicity. To address this, we recently developed a novel antibody-T-cell receptor (AbTCR) platform (trademarked as ARTEMIS®) which was designed to leverage natural immune receptor signaling and regulation. The AbTCR platform includes a gamma/delta (γδ) TCR-based AbTCR construct and a separate co-stimulatory molecule, both engineered to be tumor-specific. Here, we aim to assess the safety and preliminary efficacy of a CD19-directed AbTCR T-cell therapy. Methods: We generated ET019003 T cells, which are autologous CD19-directed AbTCR T cells. We then conducted an early phase I study to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of ET019003 T cells for the treatment of CD19-positive relapsed/refractory (r/r) B-cell lymphoma. Results: Sixteen patients enrolled in this study and 12 patients were treated. Of the 12 patients treated, 6 patients (50%) achieved a complete response (CR), and 4 (33%) achieved a partial response (PR) (best objective response rate [ORR] of 83%). CRs were durable, including 2 patients with ongoing CRs for 22.7 months and 23.2 months. ET019003 was well-tolerated with an attractive safety profile. No patients experienced severe (grade ≥ 3) cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and only 1 patient experienced immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) of any grade. Significant elevations of cytokine levels were not seen, even in patients with marked expansion of ET019003 T cells. Conclusion: This study provides initial clinical validation of the AbTCR platform as a novel cancer treatment with the potential to provide durable clinical benefit with low toxicity. Trial registration: NCT03642496; Date of registration: August 22, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four kinds of chromium carbide composite coatings were successfully prepared on the surface of TC4 titanium alloy by plasma spraying Cr2O3-Al-SiC composite powder. The effects of SiC content in composite powder on the microstructure and properties of the as-prepared coatings were investigated. The results showed that the desired phases of Cr7C3, CrSi2 and Al2O3 were synthesized in situ through the reactions among Cr2O3, Al and SiC powders. However, due to the different content of each phase in coatings, the microstructure and properties were different. When the SiC content increased from 5 to 12 wt.%, the porosity of the coatings decreased, and the microhardness and toughness increased. Continue to increase SiC content to 19 and 30 wt.%, the porosity of the coatings increased, and the microhardness and toughness decreased. When the SiC content was 12 wt.%, the as-prepared coating had the lowest porosity (3.20%), the highest microhardness (1262.2 HV0.1) and the best fracture toughness (3.3 MPa m1/2) due to the higher reaction degree and better melting state of the composite powders in the plasma jet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Globally, influenza is a major cause of morbidity, hospitalization and mortality. Influenza vaccination has shown substantial protective effectiveness in the United States. Methods We investigated state-level patterns of coverage rates of seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccination, among the overall population (six months or older) in the U.S. and specifically among children (aged between 6 months and 17 years) and the elderly (aged 65 years or older), from 2009/10 to 2014/15, and associations with ecological factors. We obtained state-level influenza vaccination rates from national surveys, and state-level socio-demographic and health data from a variety of sources. We employed a retrospective ecological study design, and used both linear models and linear mixed-effect models to determine the levels of ecological association of the state-level vaccinations rates with these factors, both with and without region as a factor for the three populations. Results and Conclusions Health-care access has a robust, positive association with state-level vaccination rates across all populations and models. This highlights a potential population-level advantage of expanding health-care access. We also found that prevalence of asthma in adults is negatively associated with mean influenza vaccination rates in the elderly populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper serves as a vital microelement which is widely present in the biosystem, functioning as multi-enzyme active site, including oxidative stress, lipid oxidation and energy metabolism, where oxidation and reduction characteristics are both beneficial and lethal to cells. Since tumor tissue has a higher demand for copper and is more susceptible to copper homeostasis, copper may modulate cancer cell survival through reactive oxygen species (ROS) excessive accumulation, proteasome inhibition and anti-angiogenesis. Therefore, intracellular copper has attracted great interest that multifunctional copper-based nanomaterials can be exploited in cancer diagnostics and antitumor therapy. Therefore, this review explains the potential mechanisms of copper-associated cell death and investigates the effectiveness of multifunctional copper-based biomaterials in the field of antitumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel in-situ synthesis method, which introduced 8YSZ-Al-SiC reaction system to atmospheric plasma spraying process, was put forward to prepare ZrC composite coating. Phase transformation between 8YSZ and 15YSZ caused by in-situ reactions was observed. Efforts were focused on TEM investigation in order to explore in-situ generated microstructure containing nanosized ZrC, ZrSi 2 and 15YSZ grains in the composite coating. Moreover, the relationship between the mechanical properties and microstructure of the ZrC composite coating was preliminarily established based on the micron-indentation test. Results confirmed the feasibility of preparing ZrC composite coating by plasma spraying 8YSZ-Al-SiC composite powder and further proved the positive effect of in-situ generated microstructure of the ZrC composite coating on its mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High entropy carbide ceramics possess high hardness but suffer from low toughness and densification challenges. A dense (ZrNbTiCrV)C composite coating was fabricated through spraying ZrO 2 -Nb 2 O 5 -TiO 2 -Cr 2 O 3 -V 2 O 5 -Al-SiC powders, which was subsequently compared to a (ZrNbTiCrV)C coating produced from binary carbides. Incorporating the V element facilitated the densification and element diffusion. The coating obtained via spraying ZrO 2 -Nb 2 O 5 -TiO 2 -Cr 2 O 3 -V 2 O 5 -Al-SiC powders exhibited superior mechanical properties and wear resistance, particularly achieving a 17.2 % increase in fracture toughness and a 73.3 % reduction in wear rate compared to the coating derived from binary carbides. These improved properties were attributed to fine-grained particles and a low porosity of 1.56 %. Wear resistance was also enhanced through rolling friction and the formation of a protective oxide film. • A dense (ZrNbTiCrV)C composite coating was synthesized successfully. • The microhardness of (ZrNbTiCrV)C composite coating reached 1321 HV 0.1. • (ZrNbTiCrV)C particles were beneficial to mechanical properties and wear resistance. • Oxide film also helped to improve the wear resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monoclonal antibodies are at the vanguard of the most promising cancer treatments. Whereas traditional therapeutic antibodies have been limited to extracellular antigens, T cell receptor mimic (TCRm) antibodies can target intracellular antigens presented by cell surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins. TCRm antibodies can therefore target a repertoire of otherwise undruggable cancer antigens. However, the consequences of off-target peptide/MHC recognition with engineered T cell therapies are severe, and thus there are significant safety concerns with TCRm antibodies. Here we explored the specificity and safety profile of a new TCRm-based T cell therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a solid tumor for which no effective treatment exists. We targeted an alpha-fetoprotein peptide presented by HLA-A*02 with a highly specific TCRm, which crystallographic structural analysis showed binds directly over the HLA protein and interfaces with the full length of the peptide. We fused the TCRm to the γ and δ subunits of a TCR, producing a signaling AbTCR construct. This was combined with an scFv/CD28 co-stimulatory molecule targeting glypican-3 for increased efficacy towards tumor cells. This AbTCR + co-stimulatory T cell therapy showed potent activity against AFP-positive cancer cell lines in vitro and an in an in vivo model and undetectable activity against AFP-negative cells. In an in-human safety assessment, no significant adverse events or cytokine release syndrome were observed and evidence of efficacy was seen. Remarkably, one patient with metastatic HCC achieved a complete remission after nine months and ultimately qualified for a liver transplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZrB2-based composite coatings have broad application prospects in hypersonic aircraft, rockets, and re-entry spacecraft. However, poor toughness of the ZrB2 coating is an important problem to be solved urgently. This study designed and prepared ZrO2–B4C–Al precursor and nano-ZrB2-based composite coating were prepared in situ by reactive plasma spraying. The obtained toughness values of coating by plasma spraying ZrO2–B4C–Al powder increased by 241% in comparison with the coating by plasma spraying ZrB2–ZrC–Al2O3 powder. The coupling action of the toughening mechanism such as fine-grain strengthening, toughening crack deflection, and crack bridging greatly improved the toughness of the coating. This paper provides a novel idea for the preparation of high-properties nano-ZrB2 based composite coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This work used in-situ scanning electron microscopy method to investigate the small fatigue crack behavior of the aluminum alloy 2024 laminated structure produced by ultrasonic consolidation process. The influence of local microstructure on the crack propagation of the laminates after different heat treatments (T4 and T62) has been compared and discussed. It was found that both the precipitations and the interfaces of the layers could retard crack growth and alter the growth direction, and the effect of interfaces was much stronger. Due to the higher ratio of the toughness to bond strength, the barrier effect of the interfaces on impeding the fatigue crack growth in specimens after the T4 heat treatment was more evident. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective. To observe the effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) in automotive industry on occupational workers. Methods. A total of 704 workers were investigated, and 374 workers were chosen and divided into two groups (control group and exposure group) according to the inclusive criteria, namely male with age 20-40 years old and ≥ 2 years of exposure. The intensities of ELF-EMFs and noise were detected with EFA-300 Field Analyzer (Narda company, Pfullingen, Germany) and AWA5610D integrating sound level meter (Hangzhou Aihua Instruments Co., Ltd, Hangzhou, China), respectively. Survey data were collected by questionnaire, and the physical check-up was done in hospital. All the data were input into SPSS17.0 software (SPSS Inc, Chicago, USA), and the appropriate statistic analyses were carried out. Results. The intensity of EMFs in exposure group was significantly higher than that in control group ( p < 0.05), while the noise in two workplaces showed no difference ( p>0.05). The survey data collected by questionnaires showed that the symptoms of loss of hair in exposure group were significantly different as compared with that in control group ( p < 0.05). The check-up parameters of cardiovascular, liver and hematology system showed significant differences between the two groups ( p < 0.05). Conclusions. Survey and check-up data suggest that exposure to ELF-EMFs might have effects on the nervous, cardiovascular, liver, and hematology system of workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis (RIPF) frequently arises as a delayed complication following radiation therapy for thoracic cancers, encompassing lung, breast, and esophageal malignancies. Characterized by a relentless and irreversible accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins within the lung parenchyma, RIPF presents a significant clinical challenge. While the modulation of gene expression by transcription factors is a recognized aspect in various pathologies, their specific role in the context of RIPF has been less clear. This study elucidates that ionizing radiation prompts the translocation of the transcription factor GATA3 into the nucleus. This translocation facilitates GATA3's binding to the NRP1 promoter, thereby enhancing the transcription and subsequent translation of NRP1. Further investigations demonstrate that the TGF-β pathway agonist, SRI-011381, can mitigate the effects of NRP1 knockdown on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and ECM deposition, suggesting a pivotal role of the GATA3/NRP1/TGF-β axis in the pathogenesis of RIPF. In conclusion, our findings not only underscore the critical involvement of GATA3 in RIPF but also highlight the GATA3/NRP1/TGF-β signaling pathway as a promising target for therapeutic intervention in RIPF management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NbB2‐NbC composite coatings with or without Al2O3 addition had been fabricated via the plasma spraying method, respectively. The effect of nano‐Al2O3 on the microstructure and properties (microhardness, toughness and wear resistance) of sprayed NbB2‐NbC coating was explored. It was found that NbB2‐NbC coating exhibited loose microstructure, many pores and no obvious lamellar structure. NbB2‐NbC‐Al2O3 composite coating showed denser microstructure, fewer pores, and more obvious lamellar structure than NbB2‐NbC composite coating. NbB2‐NbC‐Al2O3 composite coating had high microhardness, good toughness, and excellent wear resistance, which could mainly attribute to the addition of nano‐Al2O3 leading the composite powder to melt more fully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niobium carbide composite coatings were prepared on titanium alloy surface by plasma spraying NbC–Al 2 O 3 , Nb–SiC and Nb–SiC–Al composite powders, respectively. The phase composition, microstructure and formation mechanism of the three composite coatings were analyzed and their microhardness, toughness and scratch resistance were compared. The phases of the NbC–Al 2 O 3 system did not change during the plasma spraying process, and new phases (Nb 2 C, NbC and Nb 3 Si) were formed in the Nb–SiC and Nb–SiC–Al systems. TEM results of the Nb–SiC composite coating indicate that the new phases nanocrystalline Nb 2 C, submicron NbC and nanocrystalline Nb 3 Si were formed during the plasma spraying process. Compared with the NbC–Al 2 O 3 composite coating, the microstructure of the Nb–SiC and the Nb–SiC–Al composite coatings were uniform, and the porosity were relatively low, and the hardness was higher. The Nb–SiC–Al composite coating was denser than the Nb–SiC composite coating, the lamellar structure was obvious and the number of pores in the coating was the least, which is attributed to the better molten state of the composite powder by the addition of the Al to the Nb–SiC system. The Nb–SiC–Al composite coating had better toughness and scratch resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Red-emitting AlN-CaAlSiN3:Eu composite phosphor ceramics were reported for the first time, with a world-record thermal conductivity of 53.5 W m-1 K-1 and therefore a high saturation threshold of 4.2 W. Thermally robust red-emitting phosphor ceramics are urgently required for laser lighting and displays with high luminance and better color saturation. The most promising CaAlSiN 3 :Eu ceramics have a low thermal conductivity of 4.2 W m−1 K−1 and a small luminance saturation of 0.5 W, making it hard to be used under high power laser irradiation. In this work, we incorporated AlN into the CaAlSiN 3 :Eu ceramic to produce red-emitting AlN-CaAlSiN 3 :Eu composite phosphor ceramics by spark plasma sintering. The fully densified phosphor ceramics have the highest thermal conductivity reported so far (53.5 W m−1 K−1), which is about 13 times higher than the reported one. The luminance saturation of the composite ceramics occurs at a high threshold of 4.2 W under blue laser excitation, enabling them to be used for high power laser lighting. This work provides an idea of tackling the microstructure of nitride phosphor ceramics and of preparing thermally robust red-emitting color converters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NbB 2 -NbC coating was developed by plasma spraying NbB 2 -NbC and Nb-B 4 C powders. • The microstructure and properties of the coating were investigated. • The coating of Nb-B 4 C system displayed dense microhardness and good quality. • The formation mechanism of Nb-B 4 C system coating was studied and drawn. NbB 2 -NbC composite coatings were fabricated on the surface of TC4 by plasma spraying NbB 2 -NbC and Nb-B 4 C composite powders. The microstructure and properties of the as-prepared coatings were investigated, and the reaction mechanism of the Nb-B 4 C composite powder in the plasma jet and the formation mechanism of the NbB 2 -NbC coatings were revealed. During the plasma spraying process, NbB 2 -NbC composite powder underwent melting-depositing and no phase transformation occurred. The formation mechanism of the coating by plasma spraying Nb-B 4 C composite powder was solid phase diffusion-reaction-melting-deposition, and NbB 2 and NbC were formed in situ by the solid phase diffusion reaction between Nb and B 4 C in the plasma jet. The coating obtained by reactive plasma spraying Nb-B 4 C composite powder has obvious lamellar structure, low porosity, high density, higher microhardness, good toughness, and better wear resistance compared with the coating prepared by NbB 2 -NbC composite powder, which is attributed to the exothermic reaction between Nb and B 4 C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of SiC on microstructure and properties of plasma sprayed ZrB 2 –ZrC composite coating were investigated. Plasma sprayed ZrB 2 –ZrC and ZrB 2 –ZrC–SiC composite coatings were prepared and compared. The addition of SiC could improve the density of the ZrB 2 –ZrC–SiC coating that lead to better mechanical properties. The reason was that SiC improved the melting state of powder feedstocks during plasma spraying process and refined grains in ZrB 2 –ZrC–SiC composite coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MoO 3 –Al composite powders were used for preparing in situ composite coatings. Effects of the composition of MoO 3 –Al composite powder on the microstructure and properties of the as-prepared coatings were investigated. The results show that the main phases of the as-prepared coatings were γ-Al 2 O 3 and Mo. An optimal composition (63 wt%) of MoO 3 in MoO 3 –Al composite powder was demonstrated. The porosity of the as-prepared composite coatings decreased first and then increased with the increase of MoO 3. This is attributed to the fact that the melting state of the powder during plasma spraying is closely involved in the content of MoO 3. The coating prepared by composite powder with 63 wt% MoO 3 had the most Al 2 O 3 and the highest microhardness. The wear resistance of 63 wt% MoO 3 composite coating was the best among four coatings with different content of MoO 3 , which is attributed to its high hardness and good toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• LPS-induced mammary histopathological change and MPO activity were attenuated by piperine. • LPS-induced NF-κB activation was suppressed by the treatment with piperine. • Piperine dose-dependently increased the expression of PPARγ. Mastitis, inflammation in the breast, affects breastfeeding women in the postpartum period. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of piperine against mastitis using a mouse mastitis model. LPS-induced mastitis was established by injecting LPS into the canals of the mammary gland. Piperine was given intraperitoneally 1 h before and 12 h after LPS treatment. The results showed that the LPS-induced mammary histopathological changes and MPO activity were attenuated by piperine. LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines TNF-α andIL-1β were also inhibited by piperine. Furthermore, LPS-induced NF-κB activation was suppressed by the treatment with piperine. In addition, we found piperine dose-dependently increased the expression of PPARγ. All of these results suggested that piperine had protective effects against LPS-induced mastitis and that the mechanism may be mediated through the activation of PPARγ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-Cyperone is the volatile oil component in Cyperus rotundus L. The previous reports had shown the inhibition of α-Cyperone on NF-κB signaling in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. However, it is still unclear whether α-Cyperone could suppress inflammatory response in acute lung injury (ALI) induced by LPS. The aim of this study is to investigate the suppression of α-Cyperone on LPS-induced ALI in mice. In this study, we established the LPS-induced ALI model and compared different doses of α-Cyperone with the control group and LPS group. Accordingly, the following indexes would be compared, including lung wet/dry ratio, MPO activity, inflammatory cell number, histopathological changes, levels of inflammatory cytokines, NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling pathways activation. The results demonstrated that α-Cyperone had the effect on reducing the wet/dry ratio and MPO activity. Furthermore, the increase of inflammatory cells and inflammatory cytokines could be inhibited by α-Cyperone. Meanwhile, α-Cyperone could downregulate NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling pathways. Finally, we found α-Cyperone could up-regulate the expression of SIRT1 and SIRT1 inhibitor could reverse the protective effects of α-Cyperone on ALI. In conclusion, α-Cyperone showed the protective effect on LPS-induced ALI in mice by suppressing the NF-κB and NLRP3 signaling pathways, mainly via up-regulating SIRT1. This provides a potential drug for the treatment of LPS-induced ALI. • α-Cyperone had the effect on reducing the wet/dry ratio and MPO activity. • The increase of inflammatory cells and inflammatory cytokines could be inhibited by α-Cyperone. • SIRT1 inhibitor could reverse the protective effects of α-Cyperone on ALI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 composite coatings were prepared by plasma spraying Al2O3–ZrO2 composite powder with varying amounts of Y2O3. The effects of Y2O3 on the microstructure and properties of the plasma-sprayed Al2O3–ZrO2 composite coatings were investigated, and the results showed that the composition of the composite powder had a significant influence on the microstructure and properties of the Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 coatings. The Al2O3–ZrO2 and Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 coatings were composed of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), α-Al2O3, and γ-Al2O3. The Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 coating had a lower friction coefficient and wear rate compared with the Al2O3–ZrO2 coating. The Al2O3–ZrO2–Y2O3 coating showed the most uniform and compact microstructure, highest microhardness, good toughness, and adhesive strength when 3 wt.%Y2O3 was added. This method of adding rare-earth Y2O3 to improve the overall performance of Al2O3–ZrO2 coatings has potential application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 nanocomposite powders with or without nano-additives used for plasma spraying were successfully prepared by spray drying, heat treatment and plasma treatment. The effects of treatment process and nano-additives on the microstructure and properties of Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 nanocomposite powders were investigated. Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 composite powders prepared by spray drying and heat treatment were nanostructured composite powders with high sphericity and nanosized grains. Spherical and dense particles with smooth surface were formed due to the extremely rapid liquid phase sintering during plasma treatment. The formation of different microstructures after plasma treatment was mainly determined by two key factors: the density and heating temperature of powder particles. The three-dimensional network structure was the typical microstructure in the plasma treated Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 composite powder with nano-additives. The nanocomposite powder with three-dimensional network structure was composed of amorphous intergranular network thin film rich in Ti, Zr and Ce surrounding the α-Al 2 O 3 colonies. Spherical powders with smooth surface and dense microstructure were formed due to the rapid melting and solidifying of plasma treatment. Therefore, the flowability and density of the plasma treated powders was significantly improved. The plasma treated composite powders were good spraying material with excellent performance, which can be used to prepare high performance nanostructured coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]