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• The overall issues related to grain refinement in Mg-RE alloys casting were reviewed. • Zr-containing salt and Al 2 RE particles are two possible grain refiners for Mg-RE alloys. • Physical fields and applied pressure during solidification contribute to grain refinement. • The grain refining effect is severely affected by the purification process in Mg-RE alloy production. • Casting technique and processing parameters are crucial to assure the grain refinement effect. High-performance cast magnesium rare-earth (Mg-RE) alloys are one of the most important materials among all developed Mg alloy families, and have shown great potential in military and weapons, aerospace and aviation, orthopedic implants, etc. Controlling grain size and distribution of it is key to the promising mechanical performance of Mg-RE alloy casting components. During the casting of a real component, nearly every procedure in the fabrication process will influence the grain refinement effect. The procedure may include and may not be limited to the chemical inoculations, possibly applied physical fields, the interfere between grain refiner and purifications, and the casting techniques with different processing parameters. This paper reviews the recent advances and proposed future developments in these categories on grain refinement of cast Mg-RE alloys. The review will provide insights for the future design of grain refinement techniques, the choosing of processing parameters, and coping strategies for the failure of coarsening for cast Mg-RE components with high quality and good performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy of 6 different commercially available waterproof cast protectors in their ability to maintain a dry environment and evaluate whether cast protectors perform better than a plastic bag secured with tape in keeping casts dry. We enrolled 23 adult participants to test 6 different commercially available cast protectors and a plastic bag. Participants trialed all cast protectors twice, with and without motion, by fully submerging each cast protector in water with a paper towel held between their index and middle fingers. Moisture accumulation within the cast protectors was estimated by the change in weight of paper towel. An analysis of variance test was performed to compare differences between cast protectors in their ability to maintain a dry internal environment. The plastic bag showed an average moisture accumulation of 5.50 g without motion compared with all other cast protectors, which had 0.0 g of moisture accumulation. One cast protector and the plastic bag had an average moisture accumulation of 0.46 g and 4.51 g with motion compared to all other cast protectors. The plastic bag was ranked the worst by 100% of participants. Cast protectors appear to offer superior protection from moisture compared with a plastic bag. Therapeutic IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The best choice of orthosis in the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture is still under debate. To investigate if choice of orthosis in the first 3 weeks of treatment affected patient reported outcome (Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS)), tendon elongation (Achilles Tendon Resting Angle (ATRA) and Heel Rise Height (HRH)) and re-rupture. Registry study in the Danish Achilles tendon Database. Patients treated with cast and patients treated with walker in the first 3 weeks of treatment were compared using a linear mixed-effects model adjusted for potential confounders. 1304 patients were included in the study. No clinically relevant difference was found: Adjusted mean difference (using walker the whole period as reference)(95% CI) ATRS after 1 year = 0.1(−3.0; 4.1), ATRS after 6 months = 2.0(−4.5; 5.8), ATRS after 2 years = 3.0(−0.7; 7.0), HRH difference = 0.6(−6.6; 8.2), ATRA difference = 0.03°(−1.5; 1.6), re-rupture(odds ratio) = 0.812(0.4; 1.61). Patients treated with cast the first 3 weeks after acute Achilles tendon rupture did not have better treatment outcome than patients treated with walker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Anatomical 3D-printed nasal casts are valuable models to investigate intranasal drug deposition, providing preclinical data that cannot be obtained in animal models. However, these models are limited since they are often derived from a single patient or represent a mean of several groups. The present study aimed to better characterize the anatomical differences of the nasal cavity in a European sub-population and to assess the potential impact of anatomical variations on intranasal deposition by medical devices. Ninety-eight cranial computed tomography scans of patients were selected and analyzed in 2D and 3D conformations. They showed symmetry of cavities and a high level of heterogeneity of measurements, especially volume and area, in the population. Three anatomical groups with distinct nasal geometry were identified and 3D nasal casts of the most representative patient of each group were printed. Fluorescein was administered using three medical devices: a nasal spray, a sonic jet nebulizer and a prototype mesh-nebulizer. The deposition profiles were compared with the Aeronose® as a reference. Our results show that anatomical variations influenced the deposition profiles depending on the device, with a higher variation with spray and the mesh-nebulizer. This work emphasises the importance of anatomical parameters on drug intranasal deposition and the need to evaluate inhaled drugs on different 3D nasal casts reflecting the target population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworms are pivotal in shaping soil ecological processes through their bioturbation activity and organic matter consumption. Earthworm species are known to have different impacts on soil structure, but only a small number of species have been studied so far, and few studies have examined how earthworms simultaneously affect soil functions. Here, we measured the impact of different earthworm species on soil structure (bioturbation function), carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics and the microbial community (organic matter transformation function), while exploring the links between these functions, across distinct soil compartments (surface casts, below-ground drilosphere, and bulk soil). Six earthworm species (Lumbricus terrestris , Allolobophora chlorotica , Octolasion cyaneum, Octodrilus complanatus , Aporrectodea caliginosa meridionalis and Microscolex dubius) of different ecological categories and functional groups were incubated in soil cores with soil and alfalfa litter for 6 weeks. Our results on the bioturbation function illustrated a great diversity of behaviors and confirmed the relevance of a functional classification based on bioturbation metrics. The main microbial hotspots were surface casts, whose characteristics allowed to distinguish two groups of species. Octod. complanatus, L. terrestris and M. dubius induced high humidity (respectively, +57, +48, +74%), high C (respectively, 19.9, 24.8, 33.2 g kg⁻1 dry soil) and N (respectively, 2, 2.3, 3.2 g kg⁻1 dry soil) content and microbial community selection, promoting C and N mineralization. The three other species had a lower impact. The below-ground drilosphere only showed specific characteristics in the case of L. terrestris. The effects of the studied species on the organic matter transformation function did not align with their bioturbation activities nor with their ecological category. These findings show that the contribution of earthworms to C and N turnover is only partially dependent on their bioturbation effects and suggest the usefulness of developing distinct functional groups based on the specific soil functions under consideration. [Display omitted] • Earthworm effects on organic matter and bioturbation functions did not align. • Surface casts were the main microbial hotspots compared to below-ground drilosphere. • Microscolex dubius showed weak bioturbation but strong effects on C and N. • Only Lumbricus terrestris modified its below-ground drilosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are lots of gene editing tools for targeting genome sequences. Some are almost known, and most are a complete mystery and undiscovered. CRISPR/Cas editing tools have brought about a major revolution in medicine. Researchers have shown that CRISPR can modify DNA much more accurately, economically and easily than previous methods. CRISPR has proven itself effective for the deletion, replacement and insertion of DNA fragments into cell types, tissues and organisms. Recently, combining CRISPR/Cas with factors (transcription factors/repressors, exonucleases, endonucleases, transposons, caspase, fluorescent proteins, oxidoreductive enzymes, DNA/RNA polymerases), and elements (aptamers, barcodes, fluorescent probes, Trigger) have provided genome, transcriptome, proteome and epigenome modification. These modules are being investigated for cancer prevention and therapy and this review focuses on such innovative combinations that hopefully will become a clinical reality in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneous W-steel joining components will produce brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) and significant residual stress in the interface. Adding a Cu interlayer serves as an effective solution. Nevertheless, the strengthening of W-Cu-steel joints is restricted because W-Cu and Cu-steel are members of binary immiscible and finite solid solution systems. Thus, accomplishing interface alloying by overcoming the positive generating energy of insoluble systems and opening up interatomic diffusion channels is a crucial issue to be addressed. In this work, casting and brazing technologies were incorporated into bonding W-Cu-steel to provide a high temperature field, as well as the dissolving and wetting of Cu-based liquid phase to refractory W. It is shown that the superior tensile strength of the W/Cu castings-steel brazed joints (∼264 MPa) was achieved, and the joint survived 1000 cycles of thermal fatigue under 1 MW/m2. To assess the effects of brazing and casting on the W-Cu-steel joint, a detailed analysis was conducted on the mechanism of atomic diffusion in the joint interface. It is considered that in W-Cu joining, casting provided a higher thermodynamic driving force than brazing, thus achieving better interatomic diffusion and a wider microalloying region. Cu-steel joining achieved good alloying and forming dendritic extensions by intergranular diffusion. Based on the process optimization results, the feasibility of preparing the U-shaped first wall (FW) mock-up with W armor using brazing technology was verified. This study provides a new technological path, offering a major design and manufacturing guide for plasma facing components (PFCs). [Display omitted] • The novel W/Cu castings-steel and W-Cu interlayer-steel brazed joints are devised by Cu-Ge fillers. • Interdiffusion and microalloying at the W-Cu interface achieved via high temperature induced interface alloying. • Intergranular diffusion and the ferrite phase zone of low deformation were produced in the Cu-steel interface. • The joint exhibited superior tensile performance (264 MPa) and successfully withstood 1000 high heat flux tests of 1 MW/m2. • Validating the feasibility of U-shaped W-coated First Walls with R-angles through brazing first. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of earthworms for soil functioning is widely accepted and is mainly linked to their burrowing, feeding and casting behaviours. However, our knowledge of earthworm behavior is still limited by the lack of efficient and easy-to-use methods. In this work, we describe and test a new marker of earthworm bioturbation. Dense particles of tungsten, visible in X-ray images, were located at a certain depth in repacked soil cores inoculated by either Lumbricus terrestris or Aporrectodea caliginosa , alone or in combination. This marker was compared to the classical luminophore method (i.e. colored sand particles) generally used in aquatic ecology. The dynamics of both the burrow systems and the casting activities was followed using X-ray tomography every two weeks for a period of 10 weeks. Below ground casting activities could be assessed since parts of the casts excreted by the earthworms were marked by tungsten and appeared white in the images. The time dynamics of both burrow and cast productions were almost linear and significantly influenced by the earthworm species and the presence of litter. As expected, L. terrestris created larger (up to 50 cm3) and deeper burrow systems and made fewer macropores compared to A. caliginosa. Surprisingly, both species were equally influenced by the presence of litter, and this highlighted their behavioral plasticity. For example, A. caliginosa decreased by 32 % the volume of burrows in the presence of litter and the resulting burrow system was significantly shallower which showed that this endogeic species is indeed able to partly feed on surface litter. The use of tungsten particles is a promising new tool to accurately characterize the casting activities of earthworms in the soil and to study behavioral plasticity under the influence of environmental factors. • Tungsten (W) particles were tested s a new bioturbation marker visible in X-ray. • When W mixed with soil is egested by earthworms, casts appeared white in X-ray images. • W had no short-term toxicity for Lumbricus terrestris or Aporrectodea caliginosa. • Litter presence at the soil surface influences bioturbation dynamics for both species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of TiC nanoparticles induced a refined basket-weave structure, replacing coarse α colonies in cast Ti-2.5Al. Thus, the yield strength and elongation of Ti-2.5Al+TiC are increased by 46.3 % and 57.6 %, respectively. The effect of TiC nanoparticles on the grain refinement and tensile properties is more pronounced than the addition of elemental C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postmortem evaluation of the human vascular system has a long history, with advancements ranging from dissections to modern imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT scan). This study designs a novel combination of Angiofil, a liquid radiopaque polymer, and latex, a flexible cast material, for cadaveric vascular analysis. The aim was to synergize the advantages of both components, providing accurate radiological images and optimal dissection conditions. Three arterial territories (lateral circumflex femoral artery, profunda brachii artery, and radial artery) were injected and assessed through CT scans and dissections. The Angiofil-latex mixture allowed successful visualization of the vascular networks, offering a simple, reproducible, and non-toxic approach. Quantitative assessments of the three territories, including diameters and lengths, showed comparable results between CT scan and dissection. The technique precision and versatility make it an accessible and valuable tool for anatomical studies, potentially extending its application to MRI analyses. Overall, the Angiofil-latex combination presents a cost-effective solution for researchers, offering enhanced visibility and detailed anatomical insights for various applications, including anatomical variation studies. [Display omitted] • Combination of Angiofil, a radiopaque polymer, and latex, a flexible cast material. • Angiofil-latex mixture provides accurate radiological images. • Angiofil-latex mixture provides optimal dissection conditions. • Angiofil-latex mixture enhances visibility and detailed anatomical insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forearm fractures such as distal radius fractures are traditionally treated with a plaster or synthetic cast. Patients commonly report inconvenience of the cast, skin problems, and occasionally radial sensory nerve numbness. A known issue with casting is that the rate of secondary dislocation is high. As an alternative to casts, personalized 3D-printed braces are increasingly used. This review provides an inventory of current developments and experience with 3D-printed forearm braces. Main focus was on the design requirements, materials used, technical requirements, and preclinical and clinical results. Review of 12 studies showed that all printed braces used an open design. Fused Deposition Modelling is most commonly used 3D-printing technique (seven studies) and polylactic acid is the most commonly used material (five studies). Clinical evaluation was done in six studies, mainly involving distal radius fractures, and generally showed a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction with the printed brace. Whether or not the results obtained with 3D-printed braces are superior to results after casting requires further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel high Zn Al alloy is processed via two-step thermo-mechanical treatments. • A dense distribution of η' precipitates is achieved due to the unique processing. • A superhigh ultimate tensile strength up to 789 MPa is attained. Precipitation strengthening is crucial for the high strength of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu (7xxx) alloys. In this study, we synthesized a novel high-Zn 7xxx Al alloy through a comprehensive two-step thermo-mechanical treatment that includes hot extrusion and hot rolling. This approach effectively mitigates casting defects caused by high Zn content and preserves a significant number of dislocations and low-angle grain boundaries. These deformation substructures, coupled with high Zn concentrations, promote the dense formation of η' nanoprecipitates. As a result, this alloy exhibits an exceptional combination of mechanical properties, with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 789 MPa and a tensile elongation of 9.2 %. Our findings offer innovative insights into the design of ultra-strong and ductile Al alloys for advanced engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworm could regulate their body concentration of arsenic via storage or excretion, and the ability of As efflux among different earthworms is not consistent. Here, whole and semi As exposure patterns with 0-10-30-60-100 mg kg−1 exposure concentrations were set to characterize the As efflux in geophagous earthworm, Metaphire guillelmi. Cast As (As–C) and earthworms' antioxidative responses were monitored to explore the efflux mechanisms under 30 mg kg−1 As-spiked soil (As30), besides, As concentration in earthworm tissue after egestion and dissection depurations were compared. In the whole exposure pattern, As concentration in gut content (As-G, 19.2–120.3 mg kg−1) surpassed that in the tissue (As-T, 17.2–53.2 mg kg−1), and they both increased with exposure concentrations. With the prolong time, they firstly increased and kept stable between day 10–15, then As-G increased while As-T decreased between day 15–20. In the semi-exposure pattern, both As-G and As-T decreased when M. guillelmi was transferred to clean soil for 5 days. During the 42-day incubation in As30, the antioxidative responses including reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were firstly increased and then decreased, and As–C (13.9–43.9 mg kg−1) kept higher than As-G (14.2–35.1 mg kg−1). Significantly positive correlations were found between As-T and GSH, As–C and GST. Moreover, tissue As after dissection (11.6–22.9 mg kg−1) was obviously lower than that after egestion (11.4–26.4 mg kg−1), but significantly related to ROS and GSH. Taken together, M. guillelmi exhibited excellent capacity of As efflux, and GSH explained tissue As accumulation while GST facilitated the As elimination via cast. Besides, dissection instead of egestion revealed the As efflux in M. guillelmi more accurately. These findings contributed to a better understanding of how geophagous earthworm M. guillelmi regulated tissue As accumulation for As stress tolerance, and recommended an optimal depuration mode to characterize As accumulation. [Display omitted] • M. guillelmi could eliminate tissue As under whole and semi exposure patterns. • Tissue As might be eliminated as cast under low As exposure. • GST and GSH stimulated by As oxidative stress promoted As excretion. • Dissection rather than egestion accurately revealed As efflux of earthworm tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mechanism responsible for the anomalously severe HCS of Al-Li alloys were investigated. • Strong strain localization resulting from Li-rich inclusions induces microcrack initiation. • Liquid refilling is impeded by Li-rich inclusions occupying the interdendritic channels. This work reports a new mechanism for the severe hot cracking susceptibility (HCS) of cast Al-Li alloys. In contrast to the narrow vulnerable solidification temperature range increasing cracking resistance, alloys with high Li content or solute content, which are supposed to show lower HCS, instead exhibit anomalously high HCS. Results reveal that this phenomenon arises from a variety of Li-rich inclusions distributed in the interdendritic paths, including Li 2 O, LiAlO 2 , Li 2 CO 3 and LiH. These particles can form spontaneously with O 2 , CO 2 and H 2 O during solidification, deteriorating the interfacial bonding capacity. Meanwhile, the occupation of refilling channels for residual liquid increases the potential risk of microcrack initiation. These unfavorable factors promote the rapid propagation of cracks from the casting surface inward, which eventually leads to catastrophic fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zn-Al alloy and Zn-Al/ZrB 2 composites were fabricated by liquid metallurgy route. • Addition of ZrB 2 particles to the composite results in significant grain refinement, • Heat treatment at 250 °C for 3 h resulted in a refinement of grain structure and hardness improvement. • Higher heat treatment temperatures led to increased grain size and reduced hardness. This study explores the impact of heat treatment on Zn-Al alloy and Zn-Al/ZrB 2 composites. Specifically, heat treatment at 250 °C for 3 h resulted in a significant refinement of grain structure and notable hardness improvement, showcasing an optimal combination of microstructural and mechanical properties. However, higher temperatures led to increased grain size and reduced hardness for both alloy and composites. These findings offer promising insights for optimizing processing parameters, enhancing the performance of Zn-Al based composites in critical engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stable lesions of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum have been treated with activity restriction (AR), and the complete healing requires 1 or 2 years. Little is known about the effectiveness of elbow immobilization. We hypothesized that elbow immobilization would have positive effects on healing of stable OCD. The study subjects were 43 patients (mean age: 12.2 years) with 43 stable OCD lesions of the prematured elbow (mean skeletal age score: 17.1 points of 0-27 points system). The subjects were divided into 3 groups: group A, AR without elbow immobilization, 22 cases; group B, splint (mean: 8.8 weeks) followed by AR, 9 cases; and group C, cast (mean: 3.7 weeks) followed by splint (mean: 7.3 weeks) and AR, 12 cases. The mean nonoperative observation period was 17.5 months (minimum three months). On anteroposterior radiographs of the elbow at 45 degrees of flexion, 5 observers independently assessed the healing of the capitellum, and the interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities were examined. The differences in outcomes among 3 groups were also examined. The interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities of the radiographic assessment were almost perfect (Cohen kappa value: 0.82 and 0.91, respectively). There were no significant differences in age, sports played, or stage of the lesion before the treatment. The proportion of patients returning to sports and the mean period required were 77% and 8.2 months in group A, 78% and 5.7 months in group B, and 83% and 4.4 months in group C, respectively. The proportion of patients showing ossification in the central aspect of the capitellum and the mean period required were 67% and 8.2 months in group A, 63% and 4.9 months in group B, and 91% and 1.9 months in group C, respectively. The proportion of patients showing complete healing and the mean period required were 41% and 16.4 months in group A, 67% and 7.0 months in group B, and 92% and 5.5 months in group C, respectively. Compared to group A, group C showed a significantly earlier return to sports (P =.034), a significantly shorter period required for ossification (P <.001), and significantly higher proportion of patients with complete healing (P =.012) within a significantly shorter period (P =.009). Elbow immobilization had positive effects on healing and enabled both an early return to sports and complete healing. Cast immobilization is recommended as a first choice of nonoperative treatment for stable OCD lesions of the elbow before epiphyseal closure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is approximately a 2% risk of clinically significant VTE following temporary lower limb immobilisation after injury with an ankle immobilising plaster cast or boot. There is evidence that thromboprophylaxis for lower limb immobilised patients reduces the risk of VTE by approximately 50% but there is no international consensus as to which patients should receive thromboprophylaxis. The Plymouth VTE Risk Score was developed to identify patients at particular risk of VTE, in order to offer chemical prophylaxis to reduce their VTE risk. The score showed high completion rates, reliability and consistency. Using the Plymouth VTE Risk Score Version 3 (2014), we found an incidence of clinical VTE of 0.36% with 37.6% of patients being advised to have thromboprophylaxis. This is a lower VTE incidence than in most other studies of this patient group, which is of the order of 2 to 3%. The optimal RAM to use in clinical practice is yet to be defined, further clinical research is needed to accurately stratify patient risk and to define optimal risk treatment levels. We suggest research should focus on comparative clinical studies of risk assessment models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective of this cohort study was to investigate whether the revised post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome for Therapeutic hypothermia score (rCAST), which we previously developed as a prognostic score for adult patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS), is also applicable to pediatric patients.Methods: Pediatric PCAS patients were included from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) registry of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM). We validated the predictive accuracy of the rCAST for the neurological outcomes at 30 and 90 days. We also evaluated the probability of a good neurological outcome in each of the three specified severity categories based on the rCAST (low severity: ≤5.5; moderate severity: 6.0-14.0; high severity: ≥14.5).Results: Among the 737 pediatric patients with OHCA, the data of 179 pediatric PCAS patients in whom return of spontaneous circulation was achieved were analyzed. The areas under the curve (AUC) of the rCAST for predicting the neurological outcomes at 30 days and 90 days were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.90-0.99) and 0.96 (0.91-1.00), respectively. The proportions of patients with a good neurological outcome at 30 days were 100% (12/12) in the low severity group, 36.1% (13/36) in the moderate severity group, and 2.3% (3/131) in the high severity group.Conclusions: The AUC of the rCAST for pediatric PCAS patients was found to be greater than 0.9 in the external validation, which corresponds to excellent predictive accuracy. There was no patient with good neurological outcome among the patients with more than 17.0 points (extremely high severity group). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decision to continue immobilization of a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture is often based on radiographic appearance (despite evidence that radiographs are unreliable and inaccurate for diagnosing scaphoid union 6–12 weeks after fracture) and fracture tenderness (even though it is influenced by cognitive biases on pain). This may result in unhelpful additional immobilization. We studied nondisplaced scaphoid waist fractures to determine the factors associated with (1) the surgeon's decision to continue cast or splint immobilization at the first visit when cast removal was being considered; (2) greater pain on examination; and (3) the surgeon's concern about radiographic consolidation. We prospectively included 46 patients with a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture treated nonoperatively. At the first visit when cast removal was considered – after an average of 6 weeks of immobilization – patients rated pain during 4 examination maneuvers. The treating surgeon assessed union on radiographs and decided whether to continue or discontinue immobilization. Patients completed measures of the following: (1) the degree to which pain limits activities (Patient-Reported Outcome Measure Interactive System [PROMIS] Pain Interference Computer Adaptive Test [CAT], Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire-2); (2) symptoms of depression (PROMIS Depression CAT); and (3) upper extremity function (PROMIS Upper Extremity Function CAT). We used multivariable regression analysis to investigate the factors associated with each outcome. Perceived inadequate radiographic healing and greater symptoms of depression were independently associated with continued immobilization. Pain during the examination was not associated with continued immobilization. Patient age was associated with pain on examination. Shorter immobilization duration was the only factor associated with the surgeon's perception of inadequate radiographic consolidation. Inadequate radiographic healing and greater symptoms of depression are associated with a surgeon's decision to continue cast or splint immobilization of a nondisplaced scaphoid waist fracture. Overreliance on radiographs and inadequate accounting for psychological distress may hinder the adoption of shorter immobilization times for nondisplaced waist fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The NiCoCr alloys were prepared by mechanical vibration solidification. • The microstructure of as-cast NiCoCr alloys is significantly refined. • The yield stress increases at room temperature without loss of elongation. The NiCoCr multi principal element alloy (MPEA) show excellent ductility at cryogenic temperatures and corrosion-resistance properties under the condition that it prepared by thermal–mechanical processing. However, the coarse as-cast grains negatively impact mechanical properties significantly and grain refinement is necessary for forming complex castings. Most grain refining methods need extra alloying elements, which may result in loss of ductility by brittle second phases. In this work, a significant microstructure refinement of the as-cast NiCoCr MPEA was achieved by pollution-free vacuum mechanical vibration, with the average grain size refined from the initial value of 620 μm to 140 μm. As a result, the room-temperature yield strength was increased by 54 % (from 255 MPa to 392 MPa) without loss of elongation compared to the as-cast condition without vibration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A newly designed ceramic shot sleeve is proposed in this work. • The comparison of porosity and externally solidified crystals using steel shot sleeve and ceramic shot sleeve is studied. • Both porosity and ESCs achieve an effective reduction after applying the ceramic shot sleeve. The effective methods to regulating porosity and externally solidified crystals (ESCs) have been remained as a challenging task for high pressure die casting (HPDC) automobile parts. In this work, a newly designed ceramic shot sleeve is proposed for reducing porosity and optimizing ESCs. As a result, both porosity and ESCs achieve an effective reduction after applying the ceramic shot sleeve. This study provides insights into regulating porosity and coarse ESCs of die castings and it is expected to expand its application in industrial manufacture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro – in vivo correlation (IVIVC) allows prediction of in vivo drug deposition from a nasally inhaled drug based on in vitro drug measurements. In vitro measurements include physical particle characterization and, more recently, deposition studies using anatomical models. Currently, there is a lack of IVIVC for deposition measurements in anatomical models, especially for deposition patterns in various nasal cavity regions. Therefore, improvement of in vitro and in vivo measurement methods and knowledge about nasal deposition mechanisms should help IVIVC in the future. In vitro parameters to be considered to predict in vivo nasal drug deposition: Particle characteristics generated by drug delivery devices, patient ventilation and anatomy using anatomical model tools, for example. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the past decades, with the increasing demands in lightweight structural materials, Mg alloys with low density and high performance have been extensively investigated and partly applied in some industries. Especially when rare earth (RE) elements are added as major alloying elements to Mg alloys, the alloy strength and creep resistance are greatly improved, which have promoted several series of Mg-RE alloys. This paper reviews the progress and developments of high-performance Mg-RE alloys in recent years with emphasis on cast alloys. The main contents include the alloy design, melt purification, grain refinement, castability, novel liquid casting and semisolid forming approaches, and the industrial applications or trials made of Mg-RE alloys. The review will provide insights for future developments of new alloys, techniques and applications of Mg alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Forearm fractures are one of the top three most common fractures in children. Treatment often includes immobilizing the arm in a cast extending above the elbow to help maintain fracture reduction and alignment. Complications from circumferential casting can occur including swelling in the forearm that can lead to neurovascular complications. About 16% of children require splitting of the cast to relieve the increased pressure. Our study investigates the impact the location of the split has on cast bending stiffness in an above elbow cast model.Methods: A Sawbones© pediatric forearm model was used for application of a hybrid plaster-fiberglass cast to simulate treatment of a pediatric forearm fracture. The plaster was allowed to set for 20 minutes followed by application of a single fiberglass layer. The casts set for at least 24 hours and were then left intact or split along one of their 4 axes. Once categorized, the casts were subjected to biomechanical testing using an Instron ElectroPlus 10000 with a 3-point bending set up. The casts were tested until failure, and the load versus displacement curves were analyzed. Each category of casts was tested five times from both a volar and dorsal direction.Results: When loaded dorsal to volar, intact casts were significantly stiffer than those split along the dorsal, radial, or volar surfaces (p=0.0062, 0.0267, 0.0024 respectively). There was no significant difference when comparing one axis of longitudinal split to another. Intact casts showed a significantly higher load to failure than those split along the radial border (p=0.0168). When loaded volar to dorsal, intact casts were significantly stiffer than those split along any axis. Intact casts showed a significantly higher maximum load to failure than those split along the radial or ulnar border (p=0.0247, 0.0112 respectively).Conclusion: Consideration should be given to splitting above elbow casts along the volar or dorsal surface, as those split along the radial or ulnar border tend to have lower maximum load to failure.Clinical Relevance: To analyze the effect of splitting an above elbow cast on bending stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Commercially pure Mg and Mg alloys melt were degassed by an ultrasonic method. • The acoustic cavitation plays an important role in the USD for molten Mg. • The computer tomography was used to study the porosity level for pure Mg alloys. • The increase in temperature does not always contribute to the degassing of the melt. This paper describes ultrasonic degassing (USD) in commercial pure magnesium (CP-Mg), AZ31 and AZ61 Mg alloy. In this study, the efficiency of degassing under different ultrasonic parameters is evaluated by porosity volume and computer tomography (CT), and the mechanism of USD is further discussed. The results indicate that ultrasonic power, processing time and melt temperature strongly affect the degassing efficiency. Under suitable ultrasonic conditions, USD is an efficient method to reduce porosity formation in CP-Mg and its alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Unmodified eutectic Si particles have diverse multi-faceted morphologies. • The transformation of eutectic Si particles has a morphological dependence. • The molecular dynamics simulation of solution treatment was carried out. The morphological features of unmodified eutectic Si microstructure before and after solution treatment were revealed by the deep etching technique with a hypoeutectic Al-Si casting alloy as the study material. Before the solution treatment, the unmodified eutectic Si particles showed multi-faceted morphological features such as sheet-like, parallel hexahedral, truncated pyramidal, triangular platelet-like, octahedral, etc. After the six-hour solution treatment, the eutectic Si particles exhibit non-faceted morphological features such as spheroidal, cylindrical, and edge rounding. In addition, the edge rounding transformation of the octahedral Si particle during the holding process of solution treatment is visualised in combination with the molecular dynamics simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Functionally graded unidirectionally solidified (FGDS) Al-33Cu eutectic alloy was produced. • The mean interlamellar spacing and the volume fraction of eutectic Al 2 Cu were controlled in centrifugal casting. • The hardness of FGDS Al-33Cu eutectic alloy gradually decreased from 183 HB to 155 HB in 75 mm section length. To produce a functionally graded and directionally solidified (FGDS) structure, an Al-33Cu eutectic alloy has been centrifugally cast into a bar-shaped steel mold using a vacuum centrifugal casting system. Uni-dimensional cooling was performed to obtain directional solidification. Microstructural characterizations were carried out on the longitudinally sectioned cast bar along the solidification direction. Results showed that the Al 2 Cu eutectic lamellar spacing varied between 0.32 µm and 1 µm from the outer region to the inner region of the cast bars along a 75 mm distance. Centrifugal casting has resulted in microsegregation of copper concentration in a range between 55.8 % and 53.9 % from the outer region to the inner region, respectively. Similarly, the volume fraction of the Al 2 Cu eutectic has also varied between 45.3 % and 53.7 %. This leads to a significant variation in the hardness of the FGDS Al-33Cu eutectic alloy from 183 HB to 155 HB from the outer region towards the inner region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new casting method for processing copper alloy bonding wires was proposed. The microstructure evolution process of melt-extracted copper alloy wires was analyzed. The causes of the formation of non-uniform microstructures were analyzed. [Display omitted] Copper alloy wires are regarded as essential for bonding in semiconductor packaging. However, the existing single-crystal copper wires are susceptible to oxidize, resulting in connection failure. And the current production process of multi-pass cold-drawing is complicated. In this study, nickel-aluminum-bronze (NAB) alloy wires by the melt-extracted method were investigated to avoid the problems mentioned above. The results showed that the microstructure of the copper alloy wire differs depending on the region. The nano-Ni 3 Al phase precipitates on the lath martensitic β' phase in the concave area, while the interior of the copper alloy wires contains a large number of reflection-twin of the β' phase. As the melt-extracted process continues, the cooling speed increases until the formation of the stable lamellar α w + β' structure. These results will shed new light on the formation mechanism of copper alloy bonding wires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borides have been found to play a significant role in determining the mechanical properties of cast TiAl alloys. In order to investigate the influence of cooling rate on the morphology and structure of borides, SEM and HRTEM techniques were utilized to analyze borides in Ti-43Al-4 Nb-1Mo-0.5B (at%) cast plates with varying thicknesses. A higher cooling rate was observed to result in the formation of elongated, curvy borides with high aspect ratios, increased planar faults, and complex structures consisting of a combination of B2 phase and various boride phases. Conversely, a slower cooling rate yielded shorter bar-shaped borides with fewer planar faults. This variation in boride morphology can be attributed to the differing thicknesses of the solute-rich layer, where the eutectic reaction occurs, at the solidification front during fast and slow cooling processes. The B f -TiB with a habit plane of (010) was identified as the dominant phase at all cooling rates. Borides in the [100] and [001] directions demonstrated a faster growth rate compared to those in the [010] direction. Additionally, HRTEM results indicated the presence of TiB 2 while Ti 3 B 4 was absent. This can be explained by the limited phase region of Ti 3 B 4 in both the binary Ti-B and ternary Ti-Al-B phase diagrams, which is the smallest among all phases. These findings enhance the understanding of how cooling rate influences the morphology and structure of borides in TiAl alloys, thus providing insights for optimizing alloy design and manufacturing processes. [Display omitted] • Borides varied from long curvy to short bar with decreasing cooling rate. • Borides in TNM-0.5B alloy mainly consist of Bf-TiB and B2. • Change of the solute-rich layer thickness causes variation of boride morphologies. • Existence of TiB2 confirms the peritectic reaction between varied boride phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A casting eutectic high entropy alloy Ni 30 Co 30 Cr 10 Fe 10 Al 18 W 2 was designed and prepared. • The alloy consists of soft FCC and hard B2 eutectic phases with the semi-coherent interface. • The alloy possesses a tensile strength of 1266.5 MPa and an elongation of 20.3% in the as-cast condition. Mechanical properties of casting alloys are generally limited. To make casting alloys applicable for a high level of service environments, a novel casting eutectic high entropy alloy (EHEA) with excellent mechanical properties is proposed. The hierarchical microstructures are with fine regular lamellar eutectic and coarse irregular eutectic. The eutectics consist of face-centered cubic (FCC) and ordered body-centered cubic (B2) phases with the semi-coherent interface. In the as-cast state, it shows a tensile strength of 1266.5 MPa and elongation of 20.3%. The unusual as-cast properties make it possible to manufacture high performance products by direct casting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eighteen Nellore steers were classified as either excitable (high index) or calm (low index) temperament, and high or low WB Shear Force (SF) in Longissimus lumborum at 16 days postmortem, with a subset assigned to four groups: HTHS–high temperament and SF (n = 5); HTLS–high temperament and low SF (n = 4); LTHS–low temperament and high SF (n = 4); LTLS–low temperament and SF (n = 5). Only the second calpastatin peak was detected at 48 h in the all samples, and the calpastatin activity only differed (P <.05) between shear force groups. High WBSF groups had greater expression of CAST gene (P <.05) in the high and low temperament. Western blots showed a calpastatin fragmentation pattern very particular to each group with high molecular weight bands present in the HTHS. Temperament was not a determinant factor in postmortem proteolysis variation. However, greater WBSF aged meat from high temperament animals had greater calpastatin activity and less calpastatin fragments formed during the postmortem period analyzed. • After 48 hours postmortem, only peak 2 of calpastatin was observed • Excitable temperament may be related not only to rate of tenderization but also the extension of the process; • High WBSF groups had greater expression of CAST independent of temperament; • Western blots showed a calpastatin fragmentation pattern with high molecular weight bands (80–90 kDa) in the HTHS group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cumulative Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (CAST) plays a crucial role in providing knowledge about the evolution of bacterial resistance. The preparation of such report is however prone to many errors. This study investigated the variety of mistakes detected in the CAST of 9 Lebanese hospitals. Nine Lebanese hospitals were involved, where 21 different errors were looked for and analyzed. The total number of errors in each year was calculated and averaged according to the number of hospitals. Obtaining the average number of errors per hospital per year allowed the comparison of each hospital individually. The average number of errors in 2008 was 38.75 and increased to 51.5 in 2012. The average number of errors then decreased to 37.89 by 2017. The most common error between 2008–2017 was the incoherent percentages. Superimposing these results allowed to determine if hospitals in general were following the trend of average errors. Some hospitals were constantly improving, others were making a variable number of errors over the years. The percentages of errors found here are alarming, urging therefore educating microbiologists on preparing CAST correctly. Future studies should aim to study the physician's level of knowledge on the proper utilization of CAST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Self-supporting zeolite monoliths with hierarchical structure were prepared. • The monoliths were synthesized via a sustainable solvent-free crystallization route. • PMMA microbeads were used as sacrificial template for the formation of macropores. • The BET surface area of the zeolite is 57.67 m2/g with the total porosity 75.3 vol%. We report a simple and effective process for preparing self-supporting zeolite LTA monoliths with hierarchical structure via the solvent-free crystallization route followed by a calcination process, using polymethyl methacrylate microbeads as sacrificial template. SEM images demonstrate the formation of interconnected macropores. Cube-shaped zeolite particles are intergrown at their interfaces, establishing a stable porous system. XRD results confirm the purity and crystallinity of zeolite LTA. BET and MIP results indicate three levels of pores (micro-, meso- and macrospores) present in the zeolite monolith. In addition, the BET surface area, bulk density, true density of the hierarchical zeolite are 57.67 m2/g, 0.684 g/cm3 and 2.771 g/cm3, respectively, and the total porosity is up to 75.3 vol%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are no established risk classification for post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) patients at the Emergency Department (ED) undergoing targeted temperature management (TTM). The aim of this study was to externally validate a simplified version of our prognostic score, the "post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome for Therapeutic hypothermia score" (revised CAST [rCAST]) and estimate the predictive accuracy of the risk classification based on it.Methods: For the external validation, we used data from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) registry of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM), which is a multicenter, prospective registry of OHCA patients across Japan. Eligible patients were PCAS patients treated with TTM at 33-36 °C between June 2014 and December 2015. We validated the accuracy of rCAST for predicting the neurological outcomes at 30 and 90 days.Results: Among the 12,024 OHCA patients, the data of 460 PCAS patients treated by TTM were eligible for the validation. The areas under the curve of rCAST for predicting the neurological outcomes at 30 and 90 days were 0.892 and 0.895, respectively. The estimated sensitivity and specificity of the risk categories for the outcomes were as follows: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.92-0.98) and 0.47 (0.40-0.55) for the low (rCAST: ≤5.5), 0.62 (0.56-0.68) and 0.48 (0.40-0.55) for the moderate (rCAST: 6.0-14.0), and 0.57 (0.51-0.63) and 0.95 (0.91-0.98) for the high severity category (rCAST: ≥14.5).Conclusions: The rCAST was useful for predicting the neurological outcomes with high accuracy in PCAS patients, and the three grades was developed for a risk classification based on the rCAST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the cruise ship industry enjoys continuous growth and penetration into new markets, good safety records must be maintained to achieve business objectives. Unfortunately, serious incidents and accidents reoccur on modern cruise ships and hence a better understanding of why this continues to happen is needed. This paper contributes towards a better understanding of underlying causal factors behind onboard fires, focusing on consequential engine room fires in particular. By analysing a recent fire incident on an almost new cruise ship built to the latest standards, we reveal potential deficiencies in maritime safety control and suggest how they can be rectified. The incident analysis was guided by systemic method CAST, which enables to explore a complex socio-technical system responsible for safety control. The analysis provides a different, more comprehensive explanation of, and response to, the incident from that in the official accident investigation report. Given the systemic nature of suggested causal scenarios, they are capable to explain and preclude other incidents. From a practical point of view, the findings would allow developing and maintaining robust safety management systems, which are currently required onboard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to difficulty assessing healing of distal radius fractures using conventional radiography, there is interest in using high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) to track healing at the microarchitectural level. Unfortunately, the plaster-of-Paris and fiberglass casts used to immobilize fractures affect HR-pQCT measurements due to beam hardening, and increased noise. The challenge is compounded because casts have variable thickness, and an individual patient will often have their cast changed 2–3 times during the course of treatment. This study quantifies the effect of casts within a clinically relevant range of thicknesses on measured bone parameters at the distal radius, and establishes conversion equations to correct for systematic error in due to cast presence. Eighteen nonfractured participants were scanned by HR-pQCT in three conditions: no cast, plaster-of-Paris cast, and fiberglass cast. Measured parameters were compared between the baseline scan (no cast) and each cast scan to evaluate if systematic error exists due to cast presence. A linear regression model was used to determine an appropriate conversion for parameters that were found to have systematic error. Plaster-of-Paris casts had a greater range of thicknesses (3.2–9.5 mm) than the fiberglass casts (3.0–5.4 mm), and induced a greater magnitude of systematic error overall. Key parameters of interest were bone mineral density (total, cortical, and trabecular) and trabecular bone volume fraction, all of which were found to have systematic error due to presence of either cast type. Linear correlations between baseline and cast scans for these parameters were excellent (R2 > 0.9 8), and appropriate conversions could be determined within a margin of error less than a ±6% for the plaster-of-Paris cast, and ±4% for the fiberglass cast. We have demonstrated the effects of cast presence on bone microarchitecture measurements, and presented a method to correct for systematic error, in support of future use of HR-pQCT to study fracture healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether selective laser melting (SLM) printed AlMgScZrMn alloy possesses more excellent performances than other processing routes was unknown. In the study, the microstructures and mechanical properties of AlMgScZrMn alloys fabricated by selective laser melting (SLM), spark plasma sintering (SPS) and cast were comparatively investigated. SLM printed sample shows columnar and equiaxed duplex grains with average grain size about 7 μm, which is coarser than SPS consolidated sample with finest equiaxed grain (4 μm) but smaller than casting sample with coarse equiaxed grain (25 μm). SLM printed sample shows the highest tensile strength (394 ± 5 MPa) and elongation (10.5 ± 1.2%) than SPS sample (231 ± 3 MPa, 0.59 ± 0.21%) and cast sample (188 ± 2.3 MPa, 3.7 ± 0.58%), although SPS sample has the finest equiaxed grains. For SPS sample, previous particle boundary (PPB) with oxide inclusion significantly deteriorates ductility. For cast sample, the coarse equiaxed grain with intergranular eutectic leads to inferior strength. In addition, the average dimension of Al 3 (Sc,Zr) particle in SLM sample is about 1–10 nm, which is much finer than SPS sample (0.5–0.8 μm) and cast sample (1–2 μm). The present study will provide a basis for the future industrial applications of the AlMgScZrMn alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Basalt fibres have shown reinforcement potential for metal composite development. • Al matrix-basalt fibre interaction form α-Fe intermetallics at the interface. • This chemical interaction influences the morphology of these intermetallics. • Overall improvement in composite performance over the reference alloy is observed. Abstract A novel aluminium-basalt metal matrix composite has been produced by employing a combination of stir mixing and ultrasonication processing techniques. A study of the matrix-fibre interface has revealed the formation of Al-Si-Ca and Al-Fe-Si-Mn intermetallic compounds (IMC) with both phases displaying a polyhedral morphology. The new composite exhibited a tensile strength of 189 MPa, resulting in a 13% improvement over the monolithic Al alloy. A 22% increase in yield strength and a 33% increase in wear resistance were also achieved, although the flexural and elastic moduli remained unchanged. It is proposed that these IMCs assist in load transfer from the matrix to the fibres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major complication following lower-leg cast immobilization and knee arthroscopic surgery. In this review, we aimed to give a comprehensive overview of the literature on the epidemiology, prevention and prediction of VTE in these patients. First, the cumulative incidence of VTE was estimated by performing a meta-analysis in untreated patients only. In lower leg-cast patients with various injuries, asymptomatic VTE occurred in 18.0% (95%CI 12.9 to 23.1) and symptomatic VTE in 2.0% (95%CI 1.3 to 2.7). In knee-arthroscopy patients, asymptomatic VTE was seen in 5.9% (95%CI 3.9 to 7.9) versus a symptomatic rate of 0.6% (95%CI 0.4 to 0.7) following heterogeneous types of arthroscopic knee procedures. Second, the efficacy of thromboprophylaxis was determined by performing a meta-analysis of all RCTs that have been performed till date. Following knee-arthroscopy, there was no clear benefit of thromboprophylaxis on the prevention of symptomatic VTE (RR 0.65, 95%CI 0.23 to 1.81), while in contrast, this seemed to prevent asymptomatic DVT. In lower-leg cast patients, thromboprophylaxis appeared to reduce symptomatic VTE (OR 0.31, 95%CI 0.13 to 0.73). However, the validity of these results may be questioned as many trials had several methodological weaknesses. Concerning the bleeding risk (and costs) of thromboprophylaxis, treatment seems only prompted in high risk patients. Such patients could be identified based on individual risk factors such as higher age, obesity or presence of Factor V Leiden. In conclusion, we propose to use risk assessment models to identify patients at risk and to decide on individualized thromboprophylactic therapy, rather than one standard treatment for all patients. Highlights • The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following lower-leg cast was 2.0%. • The incidence of VTE following knee arthroscopy was 0.6%. • There was no clear benefit of thromboprophylaxis in either group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Hot isostatic pressing has the potential to heal millimeter-scale cavity defect. • Diffusion is the dominant mechanism during cavity healing process. • Cavity healing can be considered as a process from incomplete to complete wetting. • Both the temperature and pressure are essential during the healing process. Abstract Hot isostatic pressing (HIP) is considered as an effective means in healing micro-defects inside the superalloy. However, can HIP effectively heal macro defect? Here we design a sealed cavity inside the superalloy to simulate the millimeter-sized cavity defect and focus on its healing behavior by HIP. Results show that HIP has the potential to heal the millimeter-scale cavity and the main mechanism is diffusion based on the features of diffusion zone and honeycomb structure during healing process. This exploratory work helps to better understand and broaden the applications of HIP and make the manufacturing sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of Er addition on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast Mg-10Li-5Zn alloy. With addition of Er, the grain size of as-cast alloys is greatly reduced, meanwhile, Mg-Zn-Er phase forms and increases gradually and Mg-Li-Zn phase decreases. The Mg-Zn-Er phase is mainly W-phase. The size of W-phase becomes larger with the increase of Er content from 0.5 wt% till 3.5 wt% and W-phase is mainly distributed from in the grain interiors to along the grain boundaries as well. The size, quantity and distribution of W-phase is an important factor that influences the mechanical properties of Mg-10Li-5Zn- x Er alloys. Overmuch coarse W-phase in the grain boundaries is detrimental to strength. The Mg-10Li-5Zn-0.5Er alloy exhibits an optimum combination of tensile properties with the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength and elongation of 198 MPa, 223 MPa and 14.7%. The optimal Er addition in as-cast Mg-10Li-5Zn alloy is ~0.5 wt%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-Human Primates (NHPs) are particularly relevant for preclinical studies during the development of inhaled biologics. However, aerosol inhalation in NHPs is difficult to evaluate due to a low lung deposition fraction and high variability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of mesh nebulizer parameters to improve lung deposition in macaques. We developed a humidified heated and ventilated anatomical 3D printed macaque model of the upper respiratory tract to reduce experiments with animals. The model was compared to in vivo deposition using 2D planar scintigraphy imaging in NHPs and demonstrated good predictivity. Next, the anatomical model was used to evaluate the position of the nebulizer on the mask, the aerosol particle size and the aerosol flow rate on the lung deposition. We showed that placing the mesh-nebulizer in the upper part of the mask and in proximal position to the NHP improved lung delivery prediction. The lower the aerosol size and the lower the aerosol flow rate, the better the predicted aerosol deposition. In particular, for 4.3 ± 0.1 µm in terms of volume mean diameter, we obtained 5.6 % ± 0.2 % % vs 19.2 % ± 2.5 % deposition in the lung model for an aerosol flow rate of 0.4 mL/min vs 0.03 mL/min and achieved 16 % of the nebulizer charge deposited in the lungs of macaques. Despite the improvement of lung deposition efficiency in macaques, its variability remained high (6–21 %). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boride particles of various sizes and morphologies were obtained by adjusting the boron content and solidification rate of castings in Ti–45Al–2Mn–2Nb alloys. The initial and deformation microstructures, as well as the tensile properties at 25 °C and 650 °C, were examined. Furthermore, the fracture behavior of the alloys and the influence of boride particle with different morphologies on the tensile properties were discussed. Boride particles are curved flaky in 0.5B alloys, and varied from straight rod/needle-like to curved ribbon-like with increasing cooling rates in 1B alloys. Abundant phase interfaces, along with the presence of growth stacking faults and lattice distortions, are prominently observed in curved flaky and ribbon-like boride particles. Conversely, straight boride particles exhibit better regularity, with fewer lattice distortions and a lower density of interfaces and stacking faults. At both 25 °C and 650 °C, samples containing flaky boride particles exhibit the highest yield strength but the lowest elongation, while samples containing rod/needle-like boride particles show the lowest yield strength but the highest elongation. Curved boride particles exhibited no deformation, while their interfaces with the matrix accumulated a significant volume fraction of dislocations. This accumulation of dislocations causes stress concentration and created sites for the initiation of cracks. Additionally, the larger surface area of flaky boride particles promotes the growth of larger cracks, thus reducing ductility. On the other hand, straight rod/needle-like particles underwent deformation, resulting in the formation of deformation stacking faults on (0001) of C32–TiB 2 and (10 1 ‾) of B27–TiB, showing better deformation compatibility between the borides and matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the prevalence of problematic cannabis use is an important public health issue. International surveys need invariant measurement tools to allow reliable comparisons across countries and between sexes. The Cannabis abuse screening test (CAST) has been developed for this purpose. This study is the first assessing its country and sex invariance in a sample of European pupils. The data come from the self-administered questionnaires completed in 2019 by pupils aged 15-16 in the European school survey project (Espad). The analytical sample was restricted to the 17 countries where at least 300 pupils reported a previous-year cannabis use (n = 8740); multigroup confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess the configural, metric and scalar invariance of the CAST toward country and sex in the 2019 Espad release. Configural, metric and scalar invariance toward country hold for the 17 countries: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Greece, Italia, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain. Scalar invariance toward sex was met in the 17 countries as a whole and in 11 of the 12 countries where the test could be run. Scalar invariance toward country was met with 6 additional countries comprising at least 250 respondents: Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands and Norway. The CAST is a suitable test for comparing the measurement of problematic cannabis use amongst adolescents in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthworms are known to improve plant growth in a soil-dependent way, notably via modifications of the rhizosphere microbiota and its functions. We tested the hypothesis that earthworms influence the abundance of microbial genes involved in N cycle according to the type of soil. In three soils with contrasting texture, we quantified five N-cycling genes in different microsites (bulk, rhizosphere or earthworm casts) of microcosms containing (i) neither plants nor eathworms, (ii) plants, (iii) earthworms, (iv) both plant and earthworms. In the presence of earthworms, rhizophere was enriched in nifH (N 2 fixation) and depressed in nosZ or narG (denitrification) in sandy soil, suggesting a shift in N balance towards immobilization; rhizosphere was enriched in nifH but also nosZ and narG in loamy soil; no effect was detected in clayey soil. The pattern of gene abundance across the different soils and microsites suggests that earthworms could favor microorganisms with a potential beneficial effect on plants specifically in sandy soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Reverse cladding of stainless steel to aluminium alloy is feasible with die-casting. • Intermetallic zone thickness increases from the edge region to the central region. • Elemental diffusion from stainless steel towards aluminium alloy is non-selective. • Every intermetallic layer is associated with a distinct intermetallic compound. • Fe 3 Al 15 Si 2 forms instead of Fe 2 (Al, Si) 5 on the expanse of Fe(Al, Si). Stainless steel (SS) coatings/claddings over aluminium alloy (AA) substrates have been practiced through friction surfacing, thermal and cold gas spraying, laser coating, and diffusion bonding. In this work, 304-grade SS is reverse-cladded to an LM25 AA through die-casting using a surface-prepared sheet insert. The clad-substrate interface was characterized micrographically and compositionally through optical and electronic microscopic techniques. Micrographs revealed that reverse cladding was achieved successfully by forming an intermetallic zone (IMZ). The IMZ contains four intermetallic layers (IMLs) of varying thickness with 6.42 ± 2.04 µm near the central region. Electron probe microanalysis showed Fe 3 (Al, Si) , Fe 3 (Si, Al) , Fe(Al, Si) , and Fe 3 Al 15 Si 2 are the associated phases with four IMLs from the SS to AA side, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Precipitation microstructures and mechanical properties of Al-2Li-2Cu-0.5 Mg-0.15Sc-0.1Zr-0.1Ti alloy aged at 175 °C are investigated. • The precipitates of alloy aged at 175 °C mainly consisted of T 1 , δ′, core–shell phase, S′ and cubic phase. • The cubic phase was transformed from Al 6 Cu 5 Li 2 to Al 6 Cu 5 Mg 2 with the aging time increasing from 8 h to 64 h. The microstructure evolution corresponding to the mechanical properties of cast Al-2Li-2Cu-0.5Mg-0.15Sc-0.1Zr-0.1Ti alloy aged at 175 °C was investigated, especially in the identification and variation of the cubic phase. The yield strength and ultimate strength of the peak-aged alloy reach 449 MPa and 502 MPa, respectively. From the transmission electron microscopy characterization, it was found that the precipitates primarily consisted of the cubic phase, T 1 (Al 2 CuLi), S′(Al 2 CuMg), core–shell particles and δ′(Al 3 Li) phases. Longer exposure to temperature changed the composition from Al 6 Cu 5 Li 2 to Al 6 Cu 5 Mg 2 , and these two phases are in competition with the T 1 and S′ phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores using high-energy pulsed laser to improve the surface property and corrosion behavior of Ti-6Al-4V, aiming to develop a more eco-friendly and efficient approach. The study comprises conventional cast samples, advanced 3D-printed samples, and their respective laser-treated counterparts, all tested in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The findings showed that sample 3 (as-3D-printed) had a more stable passivation film than sample 1 (as-cast). The laser-treated surface of sample 2 (laser-treated cast) greatly enhances film stability and resistance. Moreover, sample 4 (laser-treated 3D-printed) exhibited significantly better corrosion performance compared to sample 3 (as-3D-printed) due to the increased thickness of the passivation film in the laser-treated samples, resulting in higher film corrosion resistance. The results reveal that laser remelting treatment can eliminate macroscopic defects, reduce grain size, increase grain boundary density, and generate denser and more stable passivation films on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V, leading to reduced corrosion currents during dynamic potential polarization. Furthermore, laser remelting treatment has the capability to transform and refine the α phase into a finer lamellar and needle-like structure, thereby increasing the density of passivation nucleation sites during the corrosion process, resulting in the formation of a high-density passivation layer, and ultimately improving the corrosion resistance. By gaining a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in high-energy pulsed treatment, this work provides valuable insights that can be used to optimize the treatment process and improve the overall surface properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloys. [Display omitted] • The microstructure of cast and 3D-printed Ti-6Al-4V differs, impacting passivation film thickness and resistance. • Laser remelting treatment significantly improves corrosion resistance of cast and 3D-printed parts. • Laser treatment increases the density of grain boundaries on surface, improving passivation layer stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]