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Using high‐resolution data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, an electron‐only reconnection current sheet is found between two successive dipolarization fronts (DFs). The electron‐only reconnection occurs between the northward component of the magnetic field of the flux pileup region (FPR) of the first DF (DF1) and the southward component of the magnetic dip of the second DF (DF2). The faster DF2 compresses the FPR of DF1, which constitutes an anti‐parallel topology and reduces the thickness of the current sheet. Further analysis shows that the current sheet is unstable to the electron tearing instability, which may power the onset of the reconnection. Our results suggest that these two DFs may merge into one by the reconnection, which sheds light on the evolution of DFs during their earthward propagation. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic reconnection, releasing magnetic energy and energizing plasmas, are believed to be responsible for the explosive phenomena in space. Though reconnection has been investigated for decades, the onset of reconnection is elusive. Dipolarization fronts (DFs), important carriers in the transportation of mass, magnetic flux, and energy in the magnetotail, can be generated by reconnections and will integrate into the geomagnetic field at last. The generation of DFs and dynamics at DFs are thoroughly probed by simulations and observations. However, the evolution of DFs during their earthward propagation is rarely inspected. In this work, we present an observation of an electron‐only reconnection between two successive DFs. The latter DF compresses the former DF and reduces the thickness of the current sheet between them. Inside the reconnection current sheet, electron tearing instability is unstable, which may power the reconnection. By reconnection, these two DFs may merge. Our observations can improve our understanding of the evolution of DFs in the magnetotail. Key Points: An electron‐only reconnection current sheet is found between two dipolarization frontsThe current sheet is unstable to the electron tearing instabilityDF2 compresses DF1 and thins the current sheet, which may initiate electron tearing instability and trigger the reconnection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dipolarization fronts (DFs) are widely believed to host energy conversion processes. However, which mechanism is responsible for the energy conversion is still obscure. Using data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, a current sheet is observed at a DF. This current sheet is caused by interchange instability bending the edge of the DF. Inside the current sheet, Hall electromagnetic field, super Alfvénic electron jets, demagnetization of ions and electrons, strong energy conversion, and steady ion flow and temperature are observed, indicating an electron‐only reconnection at the DF. The duskward plasma flow, which may be deflected by the DF, compresses the bent edges of the DF. As a result, the width of the current sheet between two adjacent bent edges of the DF reduces, and then reconnection begins. Our observations give direct evidence that magnetic reconnection results in energy conversion at a DF. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic reconnection is an explosive phenomenon in space, which can rapidly convert energy from magnetic field to particles. Dipolarization fronts are essential carriers of mass and energy from the magnetotail to the Earth. Strong energy conversion, considered to be even more significant than magnetic reconnection, is usually observed at dipolarization fronts. However, the specific mechanism responsible for the energy conversion at a dipolarization front is elusive. Using data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we present direct evidence of magnetic reconnection at a dipolarization front, leading to strong energy conversion. The reconnection occurs in the current sheet at the dipolarization front. The duskward diverted flow compresses the bent dipolarization front induced by interchange instability, resulting in reconnection. Key Points: A current sheet with strong energy conversion is found at a DFThe strong energy conversion at this DF is mainly caused by the magnetic reconnectionThe duskward diverted flow compresses the bent DF caused by interchange instability, leading to the reconnection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Branched flow is a universal phenomenon in which treebranch-like filaments form through traveling waves or particle flows in irregular mediums. Branched flow of high-current relativistic electron beams (REBs) in porous materials has been recently discovered [Jiang et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 130, 185001 (2023)]. REB branching is accompanied by extreme beam focusing, up to a hundred times the initial value, at predictable caustic locations. The energy coupling efficiency between the beam and porous material surpasses that in homogeneous targets by two orders of magnitude. This paper examines REB branching, focusing on how beam parameters (e.g., Lorentz factor and density) and characteristics of the porous materials (e.g., pore size, skeleton thickness, and density) influence branching patterns. Analyses of the dynamics of individual beam electrons are also provided. The findings pave the way for further understanding REB branching and its potential applications in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With high‐resolution data from Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, an ion‐scale flux rope (FR) with a heavily tilted axis is observed in the tailward outflow of a magnetic reconnection in the terrestrial magnetotail. Combined with the field‐aligned electron distribution and positions of MMS when the X‐line and FR are observed, the tilted axis is inferred to be caused by the extension of the X‐line in the dawn‐dusk direction. J · E′ is negative and electrons are losing energy in the FR. An ion‐scale electron vortex embedded in the plane perpendicular to the axis is observed inside FR. The induced magnetic field generated by the electron vortex has the same direction as the axial component, which can contribute to the axial component and increase the magnetic flux of the FR. Such electron vortex FRs may be an essential carrier of magnetic flux from near‐Earth X‐line to distant X‐line or interplanetary space. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic reconnection is an efficient energy and magnetic flux release process in the magnetotail. It is well known that dipolarization front is an important carrier of magnetic flux to Earth. However, how the magnetic flux transports at the tailward side is rarely concerned. In this work, we present an observation of an electron vortex flux rope as a new possible candidate. The embedded electron vortex generates an induced magnetic field with the same direction as the axial component of the flux rope, which is self‐consistent and can contribute to the enhancement of the magnetic flux carried by the flux rope by converting energy from electrons to the magnetic field. Our observations can contribute to understand the dynamics of the magnetotail. Key Points: An ion‐scale flux rope with an electron vortex embedded is observed in the tailward outflow of a magnetic reconnection eventThe tilted axis of the flux rope is due to the extension of the X‐line in the dawn‐dusk directionThe electron vortex flux rope may be an essential carrier of magnetic flux to distant tail or interplanetary space [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, the sub‐structures of the separatrix region during reconnection are investigated. A small current system in the separatrix region is embedded in the large Hall current system, which appears as a quadrupole current. This small current system has an opposite direction to the Hall current and cancels part of the Hall magnetic field. The formation of the quadrupole current is possibly related to the patchy parallel electric field. The electric field in the separatrix region can be divided into three sub‐layers according to the electron frozen‐in condition. En enhances in two outside sub‐layers, where the strong En is supported by the Hall term and electron pressure gradient term, and the nearly zero En, separating the enhanced electric fields, is caused by a small flow and electron density gradient. Our observations imply complex dynamics in the separatrix region during magnetic reconnection. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic reconnection is an explosive energy conversion process that converts magnetic energy to particles. Meanwhile, the topology of the magnetic field is changed. Many phenomena in space are related to magnetic reconnection, like solar flares and aurora. The separatrix is the layer separating the plasmas not yet entered the reconnection process and those already processed by reconnection. The characteristics of plasmas are quite different at the two sides of the separatrix, which makes the separatrix dynamic. With high‐resolution data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we investigate the sub‐structures of the separatrix region in a reconnection event in the magnetotail. The quadrupole current and multi‐layer electric field are observed in the separatrix region. The quadrupole current is possibly related to the patchy parallel electric field. And the multi‐layers electric field are caused by the complex electron flow patterns. Our observations reveal the highly‐structured nature of the separatrix region and may help to improve our understanding of the reconnection process. Key Points: Quadrupole current and multi‐layer electric field are observed in the separatrix regionQuadrupole current is possibly related to the patchy parallel electric fieldMulti‐layer electric field are caused by complex electron flow patterns [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new series of glycosyl benzofuranylthiazole derivatives were designed, synthesized, characterized, and evaluated as potential candidates to treat Alzheimer's disease. The compounds have been synthesized by the cyclocondensation of glycosyl thiourea with a variety of 2-(bromoacetyl)benzofurans. The reaction conditions have been optimized, and good yields (79–95%) have been obtained. The synthesized compounds showed different degrees of cholinesterase inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We perform a statistical analysis on current density, energy conversion, and electron acceleration in the primary flux ropes (PFRs) and the secondary flux ropes (SFRs) distinguished by out-ofplane electron current, respectively. It is found that current filaments are plentiful in both PFRs and SFRs. The closer to the center of the SFRs, the stronger the |J| is. The J•E' is intermittent in the PFRs. However, J•E' almost stays positive in the SFRs. The local adiabatic acceleration of the electrons in the PFRs and the SFRs are explored. Fermi and betatron acceleration are closely related to the adjacent magnetic field and bulk flow which can lead to the contraction/relaxation of the PFRs and SFRs and enhance/reduce the gradient of the magnetic field. The acceleration by the parallel electric field is significant in the SFRs. Our results can help to improve the understanding of the PFRs and SFRs and their roles in the magnetotail dynamics. Plain Language Summary Flux ropes, characterized by bipolar change of normal component of the magnetic field and enhancement of the core filed, are 3D magnetic structures. It is believed that flux ropes are dynamic and they usually play an important role in magnetic reconnection, such as dissipating energy and accelerating electrons. Flux ropes can be divided into primary flux ropes (PFRs) and secondary flux ropes (SFRs) according to different generation mechanisms. Though flux ropes have been investigated for decades, the statistical properties of the PFRs and the SFRs have not been obtained and compared. The commonalities and differences between PFRs and SFRs are ambiguous. Using the unprecedented high time resolution data of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, we perform statistical analysis on current density, energy conversion, and electron acceleration in the PFRs and the SFRs, respectively. Our results may help to improve the understanding of the PFRs and SFRs and their roles in magnetotail dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an approach for compressing volumetric scalar fields using implicit neural representations. Our approach represents a scalar field as a learned function, wherein a neural network maps a point in the domain to an output scalar value. By setting the number of weights of the neural network to be smaller than the input size, we achieve compressed representations of scalar fields, thus framing compression as a type of function approximation. Combined with carefully quantizing network weights, we show that this approach yields highly compact representations that outperform state‐of‐the‐art volume compression approaches. The conceptual simplicity of our approach enables a number of benefits, such as support for time‐varying scalar fields, optimizing to preserve spatial gradients, and random‐access field evaluation. We study the impact of network design choices on compression performance, highlighting how simple network architectures are effective for a broad range of volumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaching gigagauss magnetic fields opens new horizons both in atomic and plasma physics. At these magnetic field strengths, the electron cyclotron energy ℏωc becomes comparable to the atomic binding energy (the Rydberg), and the cyclotron frequency ωc approaches the plasma frequency at solid state densities that significantly modifies optical properties of the target. The generation of such strong quasistatic magnetic fields in laboratory remains a challenge. Using supercomputer simulations, we demonstrate how it can be achieved all-optically by irradiating a micro-channel target by a circularly polarized relativistic femtosecond laser. The laser pulse drives a strong electron vortex along the channel wall, inducing a megagauss longitudinal magnetic field in the channel by the Inverse Faraday Effect. This seed field is then amplified up to a gigagauss level and maintained on a sub-picosecond time scale by the synergistic effect of hydrodynamic flows and dynamos. Our scheme sets a possible platform for producing long living extreme magnetic fields in laboratories using readily available lasers. The concept might also be relevant for applications such as magneto-inertial fusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shearer consists of the cutting department for coal cutting, the transmission system for power transmission and the hydraulic system for height adjustment. The cutting department determines the service life and work efficiency of the mining machine in application. To study the vibration of the cutting department when the drum works at different heights, the hydromechatronical co-simulation model of the cutting department of the mining machine was established. Using the simulation model and input signal, the vibration of the motor gear, sun gear, and cutting unit arm was simulated when the shearer drum worked at different heights, and the cause of the vibration was analysed in detail in the study. Simulation results demonstrate that a more evident vibration occurs at the measurement positions on the ranging arm when the piston moves by 0.44 m. Moreover, the hydraulic cylinder, sun gear and motor gear also easily suffer vibrations with different levels and more attention should be paid on those components during shearer design process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High energy density plasma formation from intense laser-irradiated foam targets composed of disordered carbon nanowires is investigated using three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. It is shown that due to the unprecedentedly high laser energy absorption rate of the foam target, approximately three times larger as compared with simple solid targets, the plasma energy density reaches an unexplored TJ cm−3 regime at 1023 W cm−2 laser irradiation. In addition, nanowire thermal expansion caused by prepulse heating is considered. We find that after expansion, the target becomes relativistically transparent to the main pulse. The average value of particle energy density decreases slightly and its distribution tends to resemble that of solid targets. Furthermore, energy density scaling with laser intensities is given. It suggests that an even more extreme plasma state is reachable using ultraintense lasers, as the energy loss to photons caused by quantum electrodynamics effects is rather negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dipolarization front (DF), embedded in fast plasma flow, is a sharp structure with the increase of Bz in a short time and plays an important role in the energy dissipation and particle accelerations in the magnetotail. However, detailed physics at the small scales is still unclear in the DF due to the limitation of the previous mission. In the present study, an electron‐scale plateau in Bz is observed at the DF by Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. By analyzing the velocity of the electrons, we find that the electron‐scale plateau is surrounded by a sub‐ion‐scale electron vortex, which is the first observation of electron vortex at the DF as far as we know. The magnetic field generated by the electron vortex cancels parts of the increase of Bz and causes the plateau. Strong asymmetric electric field and demagnetization of electrons and ions are observed at the boundary of the electron vortex. These results shed new light on that small‐scale structures can develop within the ion‐scale DF and affect the evolution and kinetic effects at the DF. Key Points: A sub‐ion‐scale electron vortex is observed at a dipolarization frontThe excited magnetic field of the electron vortex suppresses parts of the increase of Bz and causes the plateau at the dipolarization frontStrong asymmetric electric field and demagnetization of electrons and ions are observed at the boundary of the electron vortex [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using high‐resolution data of Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we observed a gradual but periodical dipolarization process (DPs) in the Earth's magnetotail for the first time. These sub‐DPs, characterized by increase of Bz component and magnetic magnitude Bt, have a period of ~16 s. The electrons have a cigar distribution in the first three sub‐DPs but have a pancake distribution in the last sub‐DP, which excites two oppositely propagating whistler waves. At the trailing boundary of the last sub‐DP, Bz decreases sharply. Meanwhile, strong tailward and duskward plasma flow, intense current, ion and electron demagnetization, and positive energy conversion from the fields to the plasmas are observed at this boundary. By comparing the motion of this boundary with the plasma flow, we infer that the flow rebounds in longer period of the last DP and causes perpendicular electron acceleration. The periodical sub‐DPs and kinetic effects on the DP could improve our understanding of substorm and the magnetotail dynamics. Key Points: A gradual but periodical dipolarization process (DP) is observed in the magnetotail for the first timeDifferent electron distributions are observed in the different sub‐DPsDynamic process and fine structures in the last sub‐DP are analyzed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate conductance properties in ballistic spin field-effect transistors (SFETs) by taking into account the Rashba spin-orbit coupling (SOC), interface scattering, the presence of an in-plane magnetic field, band mismatch, and spin polarization in the ferromagnetic electrodes. It is shown that the conductance of the SFET has high peaks for high potential barriers at the contact/channel interfaces. Therefore, switching on or off can be easily realized by tuning either the band mismatch, the Rashba SOC strength, or the magnitude or direction of the magnetic field. Moreover, in the SFET with Ohmic-contact interfaces, the conductance modulation results from a mixing between Fabry–Pérot-type spin channels interference and spin precession and becomes more and more pronounced as the spin polarization in the contacts increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with secondary pulmonary hypertension (SPH) often have both heart and lung disease, so combined heart-lung transplant (HLT) may be considered. Because SPH is rare, a nationwide study is necessary for sufficient power. This study evaluated survival after lung transplant (LT) vs HLT for SPH. Adult recipients of first-time LT or HLT for SPH in 2005-2021 were identified using the UNOS/OPTN database. Survival was compared for LT vs. HLT using Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank test, and multivariable Cox regression adjusted for baseline recipient and donor characteristics with p<0.2 on univariate analysis. Of 255 recipients, there were 44 (17%) HLT and 211 (83%) LT. HLT and LT donor age, gender, and smoking history were similar. HLT and LT recipient gender, BMI, and race were similar, but HLT recipients were younger (46.5 vs. 61, p<0.001). HLT recipients were more likely to have ECMO usage (15.9% vs 1.9%, p<0.001) and prior cardiac surgery (65.9% vs 3.8%, p<0.001). HLT recipients had shorter ischemic time (3.7 vs 5.0 hrs, p<0.001). Post-transplant, HLT recipients had significantly worse outcomes compared to LT recipients, including longer length of stay (40 vs 20 days, p=0.003) and higher prevalence of stroke (9.1% vs 1.9%, p=0.04) and dialysis (36.4% vs 7.6%, p<0.001). Survival rates were similar between HLT and LT recipients in univariate analysis (Figure 1, log-rank p=0.09). HLT vs. LT recipient survival was 70.0% vs 82.5% at 1 year, 38.1% vs 70.0% at 3 years, and 31.4% vs 61.4% at 5 years. After adjusting for baseline donor and recipient characteristics, survival remained similar (aHR 1.28 (95% CI 0.64-2.54), p=0.49). For patients with SPH, HLT recipients had worse post-transplant complications but similar survival rates compared to LT recipients, suggesting that these patients may benefit from LT over HLT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Organ-on-a-chip platforms serve as cost-efficient testbeds for screening pharmaceutical agents, mimicking natural physiology, and studying disease. In the field of diabetes, the development of an islet-on-a-chip platform would have broad implications in understanding disease pathology and discovering potential therapies. Islet microphysiological systems are limited, however, by their poor cell survival and function in culture. A key factor that has been implicated in this decline is the disruption of islet-matrix interactions following isolation. Herein, we sought to recapitulate the in vivo peri-islet niche using decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels. Sourcing from porcine bladder, lung, and pancreas tissues, 3-D ECM hydrogels were generated, characterized, and validated using both rodent and human pancreatic islets. Optimized decellularization protocols resulted in hydrogels with distinctive viscoelastic properties that correlated to their matrix composition. The in situ 3-D encapsulation of human or rat islets within ECM hydrogels resulted in improved functional stability over standard culture conditions. Islet composition and morphology were also altered, with enhanced retention of islet-resident endothelial cells and the formation of cord-like structures or sprouts emerging from the islet spheroid. These supportive 3-D physiomimetic ECM hydrogels can be leveraged within microfluidic platforms for the long-term culture of islets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Fast flotation kinetics is investigated using the Reflux Flotation Cell. • District kinetics is found for particle sizes above and below 10 µm. • Scaling laws for kinetic constants up to 419 min−1 were determined empirically. • Kinetic dependence on the gas and feed flux varied with downcomer width. • A basis for downcomer system design is given based on the kinetic scaling laws. Abstract This paper examines the kinetics of Fast Flotation of very fine, hydrophobic particles using a rectangular-sectioned downcomer in the Reflux Flotation Cell (RFC). Three separate downcomers of equal height and breadth, but different channel widths of 2, 4.5, and 9 mm, were used to investigate the recovery of particles ranging from 1 to 100 µm in diameter. The RFC utilises parallel inclined channels to enhance the segregation rate of rising bubbles in liquid, a phenomenon known as the Boycott Effect. This work was focused on the contribution of the downcomer kinetics to the Fast Flotation. Feed fluxes over the range of 0.9–8.6 cm/s were examined, with residence times in the downcomer of less than 1 s. Recovery due to entrainment was made consistent by fixing the portion of liquid reporting to the overflow to 10% of the feed volumetric rate, independent of the gas flux employed. Kinetic rate constants for the particle recoveries were analysed by varying flotation parameters such as particle size, gas flux and feed flux, obtaining downcomer kinetic constants of up to 419 min−1. Distinct kinetic behaviour was found for the 1–10 µm and 10–100 µm coarser particles, with the kinetics of finer particles being more dependent on the particle size. The kinetics using the narrower downcomer widths (4.5 mm and 2 mm) relied more on the gas flux than the feed flux, while the kinetics using the wider downcomer width showed more dependence on the feed flux. Scaling laws for the kinetic rate constant were derived empirically based on the downcomer channel width, particle size, gas flux and feed flux. These scaling laws provided insight into the underlying mechanisms and a basis for exploring the potential flotation performance over a wide range of system operational conditions. The narrower downcomers exhibited better performance at the feed fluxes <10 cm/s. Above this feed flux, the wider downcomer of 9 mm performed better, especially for coarser particles above 10 µm. A basis for downcomer system design is provided based on the kinetic scaling laws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ion‐scale flux rope (FR), embedded in a high‐speed electron flow (possibly an electron vortex), is investigated in the magnetotail using observations from the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) spacecraft. Intense electric field and current and abundant waves are observed in the exterior and interior regions of the FR. Comparable parallel and perpendicular currents in the interior region imply that the FR has a non‐force‐free configuration. Electron demagnetization occurs in some subregions of the FR. It is surprising that strong dissipation (J × E' up to 2,000 pW/m3) occurs in the center of the FR without signatures of secondary reconnection or coalescence of two FRs, implying that FR may provide another important channel for energy dissipation in space plasmas. These features indicate that the observed FR is still highly dynamical, and hosts multiscale coupling processes, even though the FR has a very large scale and is far away from the reconnection site. Plain Language Summary: Flux ropes, 3‐D helical magnetic structures, in which magnetic field lines twist with each other, play an important role in the macroscopic and microscopic physical process during magnetic reconnection. Most of previous studies focused on the flux ropes in the reconnection region. However, some physical process inside macroscopic flux ropes far away from the reconnection site in the magnetotail is still unclear due to the lack of high time resolution data. In this letter, thanks to the unprecedented high time resolution data of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, we report an ion‐scale flux rope and study its dynamics. Our observations demonstrate that the observed flux rope is still highly dynamical, and hosting multiscale coupling processes and strong energy dissipation, even though the flux rope has very large scale and is far away from the reconnection site. Key Points: An ion‐scale flux rope, embedded in possible electron vortex, is investigated in the magnetotail in detailsElectron demagnetization occurs in some subregions of the flux rope, and abundant waves are detected in the exterior and interior regionsStrong dissipation occurs in the flux rope, implying that flux rope provides another important channel for energy dissipation in space plasma [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper adopted the hybrid numerical method to research the heat conduction of functionally graded materials plates (FGM plates) with variable gradient parameters under the exponential heat source load. Based on the heat balance equation, hybrid numerical method theory was established through the method of weighted residual, which considering the convective heat transfer boundary condition. Then Fourier transform and inversely Fourier transform were applied to the equation and obtained the temperature distribution of the FGM plates with variable gradient parameters. The results show that the different position temperature changing is consistent with heat source. The influence of the heat source in model is only partial, the distribution of the temperature is gradually reducing with the distance away from the heat source, and it tends to zero in infinite distance position. The change of the gradient parameter in a certain range has a great influence on the heat conduction, when the gradient parameters are maximization and minimization, the heat conduction becomes the heat conduction process of pure materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans exhibit broad heterogeneity in affiliative social behavior. Twin and family studies show that individual differences in core dimensions of social behavior are heritable, yet there are knowledge gaps in understanding the underlying genetic and neurobiological mechanisms. Animal genetic reference panels (GRPs) provide a tractable strategy for examining the behavioral and genetic architecture of complex traits. Here, using males from 50 mouse strains from the BXD GRP, 4 domains of affiliative social behavior--social approach, social recognition, direct social interaction (DSI) (partner sniffing) and vocal communication--were examined in 2 widely used behavioral tasks--the 3-chamber and DSI tasks. There was continuous and broad variation in social and nonsocial traits, with moderate to high heritability of social approach sniff preference (0.31), ultrasonic vocalization (USV) count (0.39), partner sniffing (0.51), locomotor activity (0.54-0.66) and anxiety-like behavior (0.36). Principal component analysis shows that variation in social and nonsocial traits are attributable to 5 independent factors. Genome-wide mapping identified significant quantitative trait loci for USV count on chromosome (Chr) 18 and locomotor activity on Chr X, with suggestive loci and candidate quantitative trait genes identified for all traits with one notable exception--partner sniffing in the DSI task. The results show heritable variation in sociability, which is independent of variation in activity and anxiety-like traits. In addition, a highly heritable and ethological domain of affiliative sociability--partner sniffing-- appears highly polygenic. These findings establish a basis for identifying functional natural variants, leading to a new understanding typical and atypical sociability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper adopts the hybrid numerical method to research the heat conduction of the functionally graded materials (FGM) plates under the exponential heat source load. Based on the heat balance equation, the hybrid numerical method theory is established through the method of weighted residuals. Then inversely Fourier transformed equation is applied to get the temperature distribution of FGM plates. And the temperature variation law at different positions is obtained in the loading time. The results show that at different positions temperature changing was consistent with heat source and gradually reduced with the distance away from the heat source. The heat transfer efficiency is related to the material performance of the surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using simple and inexpensive nanosphere lithography, we produce large, centimeter-squared sized thin golden films patterned with a hexagonal array of nanoapertures with controllable dimensions on the order of 100-300 nm, spaced by a 350-375 nm pitch distance. The optical transmission spectra of our samples are dominated by the resonant plasmonic features in the spectral range 500-700 nm, caused by the nanostructure in the film. At the same time, the transmission at terahertz (THz) radiation is as high as ~10% and is spectrally flat. Our measurements are in agreement with finite difference time domain simulations. Such thin metal hole array films allow for very efficient injection of optical energy, while at the same time maintaining reasonably high transparency of THz waves. These structures can be used in any application combining strong optical sensitivity and THz transparency, in optical biomolecular sensing, or as optically transparent electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low pulp density and low grade slurries in the coal and minerals industries are discharged as waste to tailings dams, incurring significant losses of valuable particles. This paper investigates the rapid processing and cleaning of hydrocyclone overflow coal slurry using two laboratory scale Reflux Flotation Cells in series as a means to economically beneficiate low quality tailings streams. The Reflux Flotation Cell incorporates a novel arrangement of inclined channels to enhance bubble-liquid segregation, enabling extremely high gas rates and liquid rates per unit of vessel area. Hence, in the first stage, fast flotation is employed to rapidly recover fine coal particles using a feed flux of 11.4 ± 0.5 cm/s, up to an order of magnitude increase in the throughput rate over conventional flotation systems. First stage product was then sent to a second stage for counter-current washing using fluidisation wash water to produce a fully deslimed product, having ash percent in agreement with the minimum ash attainable using flotation as determined through tree flotation analysis. The results demonstrate the potential for two-stage Reflux Flotation to deliver high throughput at a high separation efficiency from low quality slurry, with a fivefold reduction in the required vessel footprint, thus overcoming the principal economic deterrent of having to install banks of large-scale flotation cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast particle flotation is accomplished by maximising three fundamental aspects: the kinetics of particle–bubble attachment, the bubble interfacial flux for particle extraction, and the rate of bubble–liquid segregation. In practice, it has been impossible to extend all three aspects simultaneously using conventional flotation devices. Hence, significantly higher processing rates using a single flotation cell has not been possible. Here, the Reflux Flotation Cell has been used in this work to address all three aspects in unison in a single stage of separation. This novel system permits throughput rates well beyond conventional flotation standards. Stable operation using extreme gas and feed fluxes is accomplished using a system of parallel inclined channels located below the vertical portion of the cell. In this paper a highly diluted coal feed comprised of well-liberated coal particles at 0.35 wt% solids, was prepared from hydrocyclone overflow. The volumetric feed flux was increased to nearly 10 times the typical conventional level, achieving an extremely low cell residence time, in the order of 25 s. Very good combustible recoveries were obtained, with the +38 μm portion increasing from 92.3% to 98.5% with increasing gas flux. The partitioning of particles below 38 μm decreased with decreasing particle size until separation became governed by hydraulic entrainment, clearly evident at a particle diameter of ∼1.65 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Sleep problems are prominent after menopause. The aim of our study was to look into the effect of black cohosh on both objective and subjective sleep in early postmenopausal women with sleep complaints. Methods We performed a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled research during a 6-month period. Forty-eight postmenopausal women aged 45-60 years with sleep disturbance were enrolled and received daily administration of either black cohosh or placebo. Polysomnography and the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were performed at the initiation and termination of the study, as well as the Menopause-specific Quality of Life questionnaire and estradiol and follicle stimulating hormone tests. Liver and renal functions and breast and pelvic ultrasound were set as safety measures, carried out every 3 months. Results Seventy-six women were interviewed, of whom 42 women completed the whole trial. Compared with placebo, black cohosh treatment led to significant polysomnographic changes, including increased sleep efficiency and decreased wake after sleep onset (WASO) duration, and tended to improve PSQI with a medium effect size. On average, 15.8% of WASO duration was reduced in the black cohosh group. Vasomotor and physical domains of life quality were improved compared with placebo. Safety measures did not yield any adverse event assigned to black cohosh. Conclusions In early postmenopausal women with a major sleep complaint, black cohosh effectively improved sleep and might be a safe measure in managing menopausal sleep disturbance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raman scattering of (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-0.05LiNbO3-yMn02 (y = 0% and 1.0%) single crystals have been reported in the temperature range from 300 to 800 K. The spectra exhibit a competition between a soft mode and a relaxation mode upon heating across the diverse transitions. The progressive change in the conflicting displacive mechanism (soft mode) and order-disorder (relaxation mode) can explain the origin of the successive orthorhombic-tetragonal-cubic phase transitions. Moreover, the polymorphic phase transition between orthorhombic and tetragonal structures can be confirmed through the observation of thermotropic phase boundaries for MnO2-doped (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3-0.05LiNbO3 single crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy conversion between the fields and the particles occurs through various physical processes within space environments. Magnetic reconnection stands out as one such process capable of rapidly and massively releasing energy. The high‐speed outflow jets produced by reconnection can induce turbulence characterized by intermittent structures. In this study, we investigate the impact of guide field on the energy conversion associated with the magnetic topologies within these structures during reconnection. Utilizing both particle‐in‐cell simulations and observations from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, our findings suggest that a larger guide field present during reconnection leads to increased energy conversion as well as the generation of O‐type topology structures within the turbulent outflow. Our results provide significant evidence on the relationships between energy conversion and magnetic topologies within turbulent outflow of reconnection and the guide field conditions. Plain Language Summary: In space environments, various physical processes involve the conversion of energy between magnetic fields and particles. One such process is magnetic reconnection, which can rapidly release a large amount of energy. During magnetic reconnection, high‐speed outflow jets are generated, leading to the formation of turbulent structures. In our study, we investigate how the presence of a guide field affects the energy conversion process and the resulting magnetic topologies within these turbulent structures during reconnection events. Using both particle‐in‐cell simulations and observations from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, we explore the impact of guide fields on energy conversion and magnetic topologies. Our findings indicate that a larger guide field present during reconnection leads to increased energy conversion and the generation of specific magnetic topology structures known as O‐type topologies within the turbulent outflow. These results provide significant insights into the complex relationships between energy conversion processes, magnetic topologies, and guide field conditions during magnetic reconnection events in space. Understanding these relationships is crucial for advancing our knowledge of fundamental physical processes occurring in space environments. Key Points: Magnetic topology in the turbulent reconnection outflow is investigated through both Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) observations and particle‐in‐cell (PIC) simulationsA larger guide field can promote the generation of O‐type topology in the turbulent outflow of the reconnectionHigher energy conversion is contributed by those O‐type topologies in the presence of a larger guide field [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Mars lacks a global intrinsic magnetic field, it does exhibit crustal magnetic anomalies (mostly in its Southern Hemisphere). These crustal magnetic anomalies directly interact with solar wind, which forms a mini‐magnetosphere and a region denoted the mini‐magnetopause. Using magnetic field and plasma measurements from the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution, we report a novel case of magnetic reconnection at the Martian mini‐magnetopause. In this process, protons and oxygen ions from the Martian atmosphere were accelerated during reconnection and likely escaped along the outflow direction. Magnetic reconnection may occur between the interplanetary magnetic field and crustal magnetic fields at the Martian mini‐magnetopause, which contributes to planetary ion escape, solar wind entering the mini‐magnetosphere and the evolution of magnetic topology in the dayside Martian mini‐magnetosphere. Plain Language Summary: While Mars lacks a global intrinsic magnetic field, it does exhibit crustal magnetic anomalies. The solar wind from the sun accompanied by interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) directly interacts with this crustal magnetic field, similar to what occurs on Earth, albeit at a smaller scale. The boundary between the crustal field on Mars and the IMF is called the mini‐magnetopause. Magnetic reconnection is a fundamental process in astrophysical and space plasmas that can change the topology of magnetic field and effectively convert magnetic energy into thermal and kinetic energy. Using magnetic field and plasma measurements from the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution missions, we report direction observations of magnetic reconnection at the Martian mini‐magnetopause. Through magnetic reconnection at the mini‐magnetopause, the IMF reconnects with the magnetic field from the crustal field, forming new magnetic field lines that channel solar wind to enter the Martian atmosphere and planetary plasmas to escape. Key Points: Magnetic reconnection at the Martian mini‐magnetopause is reported for the first timeProton and oxygen ions from the mini‐magnetosphere are accelerated during magnetic reconnectionMagnetic reconnection at the mini‐magnetopause could cause solar wind to enter the mini‐magnetosphere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is concerned with a common class of problem involving two phase separation of a dispersed gas flow from a continuous liquid flow under extreme processing conditions. Relatively fine spherical bubbles of order 500 μm were generated in the presence of a surfactant under a high shear rate within a rectangular, multi-channeled, cuboidal downcomer. Liquid fluxes, as high as 176 cm/s through each channel of the downcomer, sheared bubbles from a sintered surface mounted flush to the channel wall before disengaging the downcomer flow into a vertical vessel. Both high feed fluxes, up to 15 cm/s, and high gas fluxes, up to 5.5 cm/s, ensured a high gas holdup beneath the downcomer and the hindered rising of the bubbles. Enhanced bubble–liquid segregation was achieved using an arrangement of parallel inclined channels incorporated below the main vertical chamber. This novel device, referred to as the Reflux Flotation Cell, prevented the entrainment of bubbles to the underflow, and significantly reduced the liquid flux to overflow, even in the absence of a conventional froth zone. Extreme upward bubble surface fluxes of up to 600 s −1 were achieved, while counter-current downward liquid fluxes reached 14.4 cm/s, arguably four times the bubble terminal rise velocity. Hence successful phase separation was achieved while operating well beyond the so-called flooding condition arising from extreme levels of gas and feed fluxes. This hydrodynamic arrangement should find application in increasing surfactant extraction rates in foam fractionation and ion flotation, gas absorption, and even particulate flotation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A memory device p-Si/SiO2/(TiO2)0.8(Al2O3)0.1(TAO-81)/Al2O3/Pt was fabricated, in which a composite of two high-k dielectrics with a thickness of 1 nm was employed as the charge-trapping layer to enhance the charge-trapping efficiency of the memory device. At an applied gate voltage of ±9V, TAO-81 memory device shows a memory window of 8.83V in its C-V curve. It also shows a fast response to a short voltage pulse of 10-5 s. The charge-trapping capability, the endurance, and retention characteristics of TAO-81 memory device can be improved by introducing double TAO-81 charge-trapping layers intercalated by an Al2O3 layer. The charge-trapping mechanism in the memory device is mainly ascribed to the generation of the electron-occupied defect level in the band gap of Al2O3 induced by the inter-diffusion between TiO2 and Al2O3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presented in this paper is a novel net shape manufacturing technology for making three-dimensional micro parts with functionally graded layers. Alumina/zirconia micro parts with either core–shell or top–bottom functionally graded material (FGM) profiles have been successfully fabricated by altering both the surface characteristics of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micro moulds and ceramic suspensions composition. PDMS surface modifications were performed to achieve moulds with hydrophilic surfaces, which were used to form core/shell FGM green layers. On the other hand, moulds with hydrophobic surfaces were used to form top–bottom green layers. Cracks have been found between consecutive layers in both the green and sintered micro parts. It was found that, at dispersant concentration of about 9.0 mg g−1, the differences in the drying shrinkage between layers is less than 0.5%. In addition, layers of composition of 100% Al2O3–0% YSZ, 20% Al2O3–80% YSZ and 40% Al2O3–60% YSZ were found to produce less shrinkage difference during sintering. After optimization of both green and sintering layers, crack free core/shell and top–bottom alumina/zirconia FGM micro parts were successfully obtained. The proposed process enables the production of micro patterns tailored with functionally graded microstructures to locally enhance properties and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the first found cytokines, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) plays an important role in several physiological processes in crabs. In this study, a full-length MIF cDNA (GenBank accession number: JX131610) from mud crab Scylla paramamosain (Sp) was cloned based on a sequence of S. paramamosain cDNA library. The full length of SpMIF was 734 bp consisting of a 363 bp open reading frame encoding the SpMIF, a 120 amino acid peptide chain. The molecular weight of SpMIF was 13.46 kDa with the p I of 6.82. The alignment analysis showed that SpMIF appeared to be closely related to the counterpart from Eriocheir sinensis (68%). Quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed that SpMIF was highly expressed in hepatopancreas and hemocytes. In addition, the expression level of SpMIF was increased significantly after a 6-h challenge by Vibrio parahaemolyticus (4.00 × 10 CFU/mL), peaked at 8 h, and then declined to the common level in 48 h. This data indicated that SpMIF was cloned successfully, and suggested that it participated in the immune system of mud crabs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (HI/R) injury is a common pathologic process caused by many clinical settings, such as liver resection, liver transplantation, hypovolemic shock, and trauma. The use of ambroxol, which acts as a mucolytic agent, provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Methods: A rat model of HI/R was induced by clamping the hepatic artery, the hepatoportal vein, and the bile duct with a vascular clamp for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion for 6 hours under anesthesia. The sham group underwent laparotomy without hepatic ischemia. The ambroxol group was injected into the tail vein in the ambroxol group 5 minutes before HI/R at one dose of 20 mg/kg, 80 mg/kg, or 140 mg/kg. The control group underwent the same procedure as the ambroxol group but with administration of physiological saline. Liver injury was evaluated by biochemical and histopathological examinations. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were assayed in serum samples. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malondiadehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were spectrophotometrically measured. Furthermore, caspase-3, Bcl-2 and Bax expression as well as the level of c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) we estimated activation. Results: Wistar rats that received 20, 80 mg or 140 mg of ambroxol displayed reduced HI/R injury compared with controls. Use of ambroxol reduced the histologic injury and significantly decreased serum ALT and AST levels. In addition, ambroxol enhanced the activity of hepatic tissue SOD and CAT, increasing GSH but decreasing MDA tissue contents. In the ambroxol group, Bcl-2 expression was increased and Bax and caspase-3 decreased compared with the controls. Furthermore, ambroxol reduced levels of phosphorylated JNK (P < .05). Conclusion: These results indicated that ambroxol attenuated rat HI/R through upregulation of intracellular antioxidant and anti-apoptotic signaling pathways. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We report the modifications of compressional Mach cone propagation characteristics due to the polarization force acting on micron size dust particles embedded in a non-uniform plasma. We solve the hydrodynamic fluid equations for highly charged dust particles to investigate the Mach cone by incorporating the polarization force in the momentum equation and observe the structural change on lateral wakes at different polarization force for a given Mach number and Epstein drag force. We also notice that the maximum amplitude of normalized dust density perturbation decreases with the increase of polarization interaction when the other parameters remain constant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scylla paramamosain Estampador, 1949 is one of the most precious marine crabs farmed in China. The crab is prone to infection by microbes at various stages during its growth, leading to high mortality. C-type lectin has a characteristic carbohydrate recognition domain and plays an important role in the immunity system. A cDNA library from the mud crab S. pararnamosain was constructed using the SMART technique. Two complete cDNA sequences showing high identities with the C-type lectin gene were isolated from the library. The two full-length C-type Lectin cDNAs of S. paramamosain (SpLecl and SpLec2) consist of 746 and 834 bp, respectively. Quantitative real- time PCR analyses revealed that the C-type lectins were expressed mainly in haemocytes, muscle and hepatopancreas, with the highest expression level found in hepatopancreas. The C-type lectin mRNA expression in continuous developmental stages during zoeal phases were also examined by quantitative real-time PCR. After infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Sakazaki, 1963) at a concentration of 2.3 x 106 cfu/ml, the temporal expression of SpLec1 and SpLec2 mRNA in the megalopa stage was first increased, reached a maximum, and then dropped to the original level again. The research of C-type lectins in Scylla paramamosain could shed new light on studies on immunity and moulting in the mud crab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the structure and working principles of an eddy current retarder acting as an auxiliary brake set is introduced in detail. Based on the principle of energy conservation, a mathematical model was developed to design a retarder whose nominal brake torque is 1, 900 N·m. According to the characteristics of the eddy current retarder, an exclusive test bed was developed and used for brake performance measurements. The main technical parameters, such as the brake characteristics, temperature characteristics and power consumption, were measured with the test bed. The test data show that the brake torque of the eddy current retarder obviously decreased in the continuous braking stage and that there is a certain amount of brake torque in the normal driving state because of the remnant magnetism of the rotor plate. The mathematical model could be used to design an eddy current retarder. The exclusive test bed could be used for optimization of an eddy current retarder as well as for R&D of a series of products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel tree-shaped antenna with high directive gain and designed by the Tree Growth Competition Algorithm (TGCA) is presented. To enhance its efficiency, the TGCA is improved by defining the growth factor, growth probability and random litter threshold. The tree-shaped antenna includes a balanced transmission line and various metal strips, which are called trunk and branches respectively, and is optimized by the improved TGCA in conjunction with the full wave EM simulation for achieving a high directive gain and a good impedance match over a desired frequency band from 950 MHz to 1250 MHz. A prototype antenna is fabricated and tested. The measured results agree well with the simulated datum, and show the tree-shaped antenna achieves a broad VSWR < 2 impedance bandwidth of 41% (from 850 MHz to 1300 MHz) and a high directive gain up to 10 dBi over the most operating band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The resolution of conventional tactile surface roughness measurement is limited by the stylus tip radius since the stylus can only make a good contact in a valley wider than tip diameter. A 3D scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique, namely SEM stereo-imaging, was used to reconstruct the surface features of 12 different catheters to validate tactile measurement results. It is demonstrated that if the surface roughness and the stylus tip differ by one order of magnitude, the results of the tactile measurement may not be reliable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An industrial-scale pulsed plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) process for crystalline alumina growth was developed. To obtain a homogeneous coating thickness distribution over complex geometries and large dimensions, a suitable gas injection system was designed. A phase formation diagram for alumina coatings as a function of pulse length and cathode voltage has been compiled, allowing for the deposition of dense α/γ-Al2O3 coatings at a substrate temperature of 590 °C. Moulds coated with an α/γ-Al2O3 coating were utilized in steel thixocasting at temperatures of ∼1400 °C. The coatings were intact after thixocasting and showed significantly improved chemical wear resistance compared to plain steel moulds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The fabrication process of 3D stainless steel–titania composite micro spur gear is presented in detail. The gear has 2.5mm pitch diameter, 27 teeth and two holes inside each of which is 500μm in diameter. The composite slurries are prepared from 316-L stainless steel (5μm), titania (240nm), dispersant, binder and distilled water. The process starts by producing SU-8 master moulds and their negative soft mould, preparation of composite slurries which contain different compositions: 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10wt% of titania, filling the soft mould, obtaining the green parts, de-binding and sintering in both forming gas and vacuum atmospheres at 1350°C. The optimization of the composite slurries is investigated in detail and the effect of different sintering conditions and the composite compositions on the sintered density, linear shrinkage and hardness is investigated in detail. The resultant sintered density and linear shrinkage show nearly the same for both forming gas and vacuum, on the other hand using forming gas produce significant increase on the micro hardness than using vacuum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Functionally graded materials (FGM) were studied and microceramic components were successfully fabricated. The process demonstrates a way to produce ceramic microcomponents with different materials at each side of a layer for tunable properties. Al2O3/Y-ZrO2 FGM has been developed to obtain components that combine properties of both alumina and zirconia. The development of multilayer FGM has been achieved using highly stable Al2O3/Y-ZrO2 suspensions with different compositions. Suspension stability was achieved by controlling the concentration of dispersant with respect to the powder weight. The optimal pH of the suspension was found to be 7 and the amount of dispersant was 8.8 and 13.4mg/g for alumina and zirconia powders respectively. Problems of crack and cambers have been found, discussed and minimized by controlling the green and sintered conditions. Finally, the electron scanning microscopy (SEM) and back-scattered electrons (BSE) show clearly a nearly net shape microceramic component with a gradient Al2O3/Y-ZrO2 composition. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents in detail a new method to fabricate free standing 316-L stainless steel micro components using high solid loading stainless steel semi solid paste encapsulated into soft mould (PDMS) and pressed using hydrostatic pressure. The process is divided into five parts: (i) production of SU-8 master moulds and their negative replicas from soft moulds, (ii) preparation of stainless steel semi solid paste with high solid loading and filling the soft mould insert, (iii) the soft mould is sealed well and put under hydrostatic pressure, (iv) after the pressure is released the soft mould seal is removed and the paste is left to dry, (v) the green parts are obtained, de-bound, and sintered in vacuum at 1350°C. The effect of the applied hydrostatic pressure on both the green and sintered densities as well as the linear shrinkage of the micro components was investigated in detail and compared with the pressure-less filling method. It is found that both the green and sintered densities increase while the linear shrinkage decreases with the increase of applied hydrostatic pressure. The maximum sintered density and its corresponding linear shrinkage were found to be 98.6% and 13%, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a successful method for fabricating high-quality stainless steel–alumina composite micro machine parts using a soft moulding technique. The fabrication process starts with the production of SU-8 master moulds using a photolithography technique, followed by mirror replication of PDMS soft moulds, preparation of composite slurry using superfine 316-L stainless steel (5μm) and α-alumina powder (⩽400nm) in 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10wt.%, filling the moulds, obtaining the green parts, debinding and sintering. The fabrication process was investigated in detail and the optimum dispersant and binder was obtained. The process resulted in high-quality composite micro parts that retain the very detailed features of the SU-8 master moulds. The density and micro hardness of the sintered parts were also investigated for the different composite compositions. The hardness of the stainless steel composite was improved by about 1.8 times that of the pure 316-L stainless materials by the addition of 10% alumina. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Focused ion beam systems (FIB) are widely used for nanoscale patterning. In a FIB, the volume of the material (μm3) removed from the surface per dose (nC) is key parameter-sputtering yield. Materials such as copper, aluminum, steel, nickel, nickel alumina and silicon are commonly used in electronic industry and micro system devices, hence it will help plan the FIB processes on these materials if the sputtering yields are identified accurately beforehand. This paper reports the study on finding the FIB sputtering yields on these common materials based on stereo imaging technique. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper reports a preparation process of alumina suspension for microfabrication of nanoparticle-alumina composites. A preceramic coating resin (PCR) was used both as binder instead of traditionally organic binders and as an additive of SiC or Si3N4 or both. The gravity-settling behaviour of the Al2O3/acetonitrile suspensions has been characterized with varying poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) concentration. Appropriate PCR amount and optimized curing conditions have been found and proven to be successful in achieving dense and uniform green and sintered microcomponents. The optimal parameters of alumina composite suspension for mould filling are achieved as PVP concentration in acetonitrile=0.1g/ml, minimum amount of PCR=18%, and solid loading=60wt.%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the endeavor to enhance the production of pharmaceutically valuable tropane alkaloids including hyoscyamine and scopolamine in Hyoscyamus niger, methyl jasmonate (MeJA) showed significant stimulation both in tropane biosynthetic pathway enzymes activities and tropane alkaloids yields. Therefore it was speculated that genetic engineering of jasmonate biosynthetic pathway might enhance the endogenous jasmonates concentration, followed by stimulating the production of tropane alkaloids. Herein a full-length cDNA encoding allene oxide synthase (AOS, EC 4.2.1.92), the first committed step enzyme in jasmonate biosynthetic pathway was reported (named HnAOS, GenBank accession: EF532599). HnAOS was a novel member of the cytochrome P450 (CYP74A) subfamily. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis showed that HnAOS mRNA accumulated mainly in stems, and responded significantly to wounding or methyl jasmonate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]