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Highlights • AFTs of iron-rich coal ash containing different ratios of V 2 O 5 , NiO and VNiO were measured. • The linear relationships of AFTs with the content V 2 O 5 , NiO and VNiO were established. • The interactions of V 2 O 5 and NiO with Fe-containing minerals in slag were investigated. • The effect mechanisms of V 2 O 5 and NiO on iron-rich ash fusibility were discussed. Abstract Ash fusibility is the key parameter related with ash slagging in gasifier. The ash fusibility of coal blended with petroleum coke is significantly influenced by vanadium and nickel from petroleum coke. The effects of vanadium (V) and nickel (Ni) on iron-rich ash, such as coal ash with ferrum-based flux addition, are lack of study. This study investigates the effect of vanadium pentoxide (V 2 O 5), nickel monoxide (NiO) and VNiO (V 2 O 5 and NiO) on iron-rich ash fusibility under a reducing atmosphere. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to study the mineral transformation, surface morphology and valence state of vanadium in ash and slag at high temperatures. The results show that high-melting coulsonite (FeV 2 O 4) is generated in slag with the increasing V 2 O 5 content, and FeV 2 O 4 transforms into the karelianite (V 2 O 3) at 1400 °C. The content of iron in liquid slag is reduced for the formation of coulsonite and V-rich spinel in the primary fusion stage. These cause the continuously linear increase of AFTs with the increasing V 2 O 5 content. NiO in ash is reduced to metallic Ni, which promotes metallic Fe precipitation and forms Fe-Ni alloy to agglomerate into spherical particles. The precipitation of Fe reduces the content of iron into liquid slag, leading to increase AFTs slowly. The AFTs also increase significantly with the increase of VNiO content. The interaction between V-containing matter and metallic Ni is not found, and there is not obvious synergistic effect of V 2 O 5 and NiO on AFTs. Besides, the good linear relationships are shown between the AFTs and the contents of V 2 O 5 , NiO and VNiO, and R2 of the fitting lines is as high as 0.99. These can be used to guide co-gasification of petroleum coke and iron-rich coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure W were fabricated by wire plasma arc additive manufacturing technology (WPAAM) and systematically investigated in terms of the microstructure and mechanical property. The as-fabricated W exhibits large-size columnar grains along the deposition direction, and it has extremely few microcracks, compared with that fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). The compression strength and compressive plastic deformation capability of WPAAM W are significantly improved compared to the widely studied LPBF W and the fine grained W fabricated by other processes. In particular, the strength of WPAAM W is comparable to that of ultrafine grained W. A microstructure-based predictive model of compressive strength is developed to understand the strength performance of AM W. The proposed model correlates the manufacturing process, microstructure and mechanical property of additive manufactured W. This study is expected to shed light in the development of additive manufacturing technology of refractory metals. • High strength pure tungsten is fabricated by wire plasma arc additive manufacturing (WPAAM). • WPAAM W has extremely less microcracks compared with that fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). • WPAAM W exhibits the high compressive performance (σ bc =1350–1550 MPa, ε f =35% ∼ 39%), comparable to the ultrafine grained W. • A microstructure-based compressive strength model is developed to predict the strength of the additively manufactured W. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The ash fusibility, usually investigated and evaluated by the ash chemical composition, is widely used for guiding the coal utilization in boiler and gasifier. The ratio of basic and acidic oxides (B/A) in coal ash is the most important parameter for ash fusibility evaluation. While the coal ash has the identical B/A ratio, SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 and CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ratio also show significant influence on the ash fusibility. However, the researches on CaO/Fe 2 O 3 on ash fusibility are rare. In order to quantify the influence of CaO/Fe 2 O 3 on the ash fusibility, thermal mechanical analyzer (TMA) is applied to investigate the ash fusion behavior of coal ash with various CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ratios. XRD, FactSage and DSC are combined to explore the ash fusion characteristics and mechanisms. The results showed that AFTs increased with the increasing of CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ratio, which was attributed to variation of Fe 2 O 3 content and iron valence. However, the ash with low CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ratio trended to form mullite, increasing AFTs. Hence, the optimal CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ratio for fluxing effect existed to balance the mineral component and iron valence. The different shrinkage curves were attributed to the different fusion events and different mechanism. The fusion process of ash (CaO/Fe 2 O 3 = 0.25) exhibited as the behavior of a pure substance, which has the narrow fusion range. And the fusion range was dominated by the low temperature eutectics including spinel, quartz, corundum, and anorthite, which were beneficial for preventing ash sintering. Meanwhile, the fusion process of ash sample (CaO/Fe 2 O 3 = 4) occurred step by step, and it had a wide fusion range. The low-melting point minerals such as wollastonite, clinopyroxene, calcium silicate induced and manipulated the fusion process. These ash samples with the wide fusion range were favored for slagging process. Besides, the shrinkage rate of ash was mainly determined by the slag formation rate when viscosity was low, but it was dependent on slag formation rate as well as viscosity for the high viscosity slag. Two correlated relations between shrinkage rate and ratio of liquid phase formation rate and viscosity for ash with CaO/Fe 2 O 3 < 1 and CaO/Fe 2 O 3 ≥ 1 were established to prevent ash sintering at high temperatures. Highlights • The ash fusion process was investigated by TMA and heat stage microscope. • The effect of CaO/Fe 2 O 3 on ash fusion was discussed for the first time. • Two fusion mechanisms are found for different samples. • The shrinking rate of ash increased with the increasing ratio of slag formation rate and viscosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors (NOD-like receptors, NLRs) can regulate the innate immune process and is an important part of inflammatory body. In this study, we use transcriptome sequencing and the rapid amplification of cDNA ends approach to identify a novel NLRP gene in Apostichopus japonicus. We designated the gene as AjNLRP10. The full-length of AjNLRP10 is 4509 bp. The putative open reading frame comprising 3489 bp encodes a polypeptide with 1162 amino acid residues. The predicted molecular mass of AjNLRP10 is 132.87 kDa and its theoretical p I is 5.60. AjNLRP10 comprises a signal peptide with two Ig superfamily (IgSF) domains and a NACHT [NAIP (neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein), CIITA (MHC class II transcription activator), HET-E (incompatibility locus protein from Podospora anserina ) and TP1 (telomerase-associated protein)] domain. Spatial distribution expression analysis detected AjNLRP10 in all of the tissues tested, but with higher expression in the coelomocytes, medium expression in the intestine and respiratory tree, and slightly weaker expression in the body wall, tube feet, and longitudinal muscle. The expression levels of AjNLRP10 in the respiratory tree and intestines of sea cucumbers with skin ulceration syndrome were increased by 4-fold and 2.7-fold compared with those in healthy sea cucumbers, respectively. We investigated expression profiles of AjCasepase-1 (Cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-1) and AjMMP37 (mitochondrial protein-37) after AjNLRP10 knock-down and discovered that AjCasepase-1 was raised by 2.60-fold and AjMMP37 was raised by 3.84-fold. The study showed that AjNLRP10 has inhibitory effect in the immune process. In conclusion, this study showed that the AjNLRP10 protein found in the sea cucumber involved with the innate immune responses against bacterial infection. It has a similar structure and biological function to that in other organisms, where it appears to be involved with these results provide insights into the innate immune mechanism in the sea cucumber as well as suggesting new strategies for disease prevention, molecular therapy, and the development of novel drugs for sea cucumbers. Highlights • In this study, we use transcriptome sequencing and the rapid amplification of cDNA ends approach to identify a novel NLRP gene in Apostichopus japonicus. • Spatial distribution expression analysis detected the expression level of AjNLRP10 in different the tissues tested. • Spatial distribution expression analysis detected the expression level of AjNLRP10 in • Healthy and SUS sea cucumber. • Detected the expression level of AjNLRP10 in coelomocytes after bacterial challenge were approached of sea cucumber. • Identification of regulatory relationship among AjNLRP10 and AjCasepase-1, AjMMP37 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defective nucleotide modifications of mitochondrial tRNAs have been associated with several human diseases, but their pathophysiology remains poorly understood. In this report, we investigated the pathogenic molecular mechanism underlying a hypertension-associated 4435A→G mutation in mitochondrial tRNAMet. The m.4435A→G mutation affected a highly conserved adenosine at position 37, 3' adjacent to the tRNA's anticodon, which is important for the fidelity of codon recognition and stabilization. We hypothesized that the m.4435→3Gmutation introduced anm1G37 modification of tRNAMet, altering its structure and function. Primer extension and methylation activity assays indeed confirmed that the m.4435A→Gmutation created a tRNA methyltransferase 5 (TRMT5)-catalyzed m¹G37 modification of tRNAMet. We found that this mutation altered the tRNAMet structure, indicated by an increased melting temperature and electrophoretic mobility of the mutated tRNA compared with the wildtype molecule. We demonstrated that cybrid cell lines carrying the m.4435A→G mutation exhibited significantly decreased efficiency in aminoacylation and steadystate levels of tRNAMet, as compared with those of control cybrids. The aberrant tRNAMet metabolism resulted in variable decreases in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-encoded polypeptides in the mutant cybrids. Furthermore, we found that the m.4435A→G mutation caused respiratory deficiency, markedly diminished mitochondrial ATP levels and membrane potential, and increased the production of reactive oxygen species in mutant cybrids. These results demonstrated that an aberrant m1G37 modification of mitochondrial tRNAMet affected the structure and function of its tRNA and consequently altered mitochondrial function. Our findings provide critical insights into the pathophysiology of maternally inherited hypertension, which is manifested by the deficient tRNA nucleotide modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coal ash fusibility is the key parameter related with ash fouling and slagging in boiler and gasifier. The influences of major compositions in coal ash on fusibility are well known, but the ash rich in sodium and sulfur, such as Zhundong coal, is lack of study. Meanwhile, the sodium and sulfur in Zhundong coal lead to severe slagging and ash deposition during thermal utilization. In order to reveal the behavior of sodium and sulfur in ash and its effect on ash fusibility under different atmospheres, two synthetic ashes rich in sodium and sulfur were prepared. Fe 2 O 3 was not included in order to shield its effect on ash fusibility by atmosphere. The results show that ash fusion temperatures (AFTs) of coal ash rich in sodium and sulfur under oxidizing atmosphere are higher than that under reducing atmosphere. The mineral transformation experiments reveal that sodium has an obvious effect on decreasing AFTs under reducing atmosphere due to the formation of fusible Na-containing aluminosilicates. However, under oxidizing atmosphere, a majority of sodium transformed into sodium sulfate (Na 2 SO 4 ), which was separated out from the slags above 1250 °C, leading to a decrease of sodium content in coal ash. The formation of sodium sulfate under the oxidizing atmosphere also depends on the total content of SiO 2 and Al 2 O 3 in coal ash. The formation condition of sodium sulfate was further proposed in a ternary diagram. The conclusions supply a theoretical support to evaluate the fusibility of ash rich in sodium and sulfur properly, and also help to prevent slagging and ash deposition by sodium sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of chiral oxazino-indoles have been synthesized via a key intermolecular oxa-Pictet–Spengler reaction. These compounds exhibited significant and selective neuroprotective effects against Aβ 25–35 -induced neuronal damage. This is the first report of evaluating the influence of chiral diversity of oxazino-indoles on their neuroprotective activities, with the structure–activity relationship been analyzed. The highly active compounds 3f , 3g , 4g , 4h , and 6b all performed over 90% cell protection, providing a new direction for the development of neuroprotective agents against Alzheimer’s disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New materials and nanostructures with superior mechanical and electronic properties are emerging for development of novel devices. Their engineering application requires accurate mechanical characterization, which, in turn, requires novel experimental techniques. In this paper, we report a recently developed multi-probe mechanical testing system and a few of its typical applications in studying mechanical behaviors of one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures, which include analyzing clamping strength of electron beam induced deposition (EBID) for Si nanowires and the tungsten substrate, retrieving Young’s modulus of a Si nanowire using tunable resonance method, and investigating thermal fatigue behavior of nanoscale interconnect lines bearing alternating current. We find this testing system can be easily used for clamping, loading, and measuring various 1D nanostructures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Studies from authors’ group (at the University of Tennessee) on alkylidene complexes and α-H migration in alkyl alkylidyne complexes, leading to unusual tautomerization equilibria between bis-alkylidenes and alkyl alkylidynes, are reviewed. Preparation of silyl alkylidene complexes (Me3ECH2)2Ta(ᆖCHEMe3)(SiR3) [R3 = (SiMe3)3, E = C, 3a, Si, 3b; R3 = ButPh2, E = C, 4a, Si, 4b] and the pathway in the formation of 3b are discussed first. Pathways in the formation of archetypical Schrock-type alkyl alkylidenes (Me3ECH2)3TaᆖCHEMe3 (E = C, 5a; Si, 5b), including the work using Ta(CD2CMe3)5 (21-d10) to confirm that it is the precursor to (Me3CCD2)3TaᆖCDCMe3 (5a-d7), are then considered. Tautomerization of silyl alkylidyne (Me3CCH2)2W(≡CCMe3)(SiButPh2) (6a) with bis-alkylidene (Me3CCH2)W(CHCMe3)2(SiButPh2) (6b) as well as (Me3SiCH2)3W(≡CSiMe3)(PR3) [R3 = Me3, 7a; Me2Ph, 8a; Me2(CH2)2PMe2 (DMPE-P), 9a] with (Me3SiCH2)2W(≡CHSiMe3)2(PR3) (R3 = Me3, 7b; Me2Ph, 8b; DMPE-P, 9b) [P refers to a dangling P atom in Me2P(CH2)2PMe2] is covered next. Finally the conversion of the tungsten phosphine tautomerization mixtures to alkyl alkylidene alkylidyne (Me3SiCH2)W(ᆖCHSiMe3)(≡CSiMe3)(PR3)2 [(PR3)2 = (PMe3)2, 10; (PMe2Ph)2, 11; DMPE, 12], including its pathway, is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proliferation and apoptosis are diametrically opposite processes. Expression of certain genes like c-Myc, however, can induce both, pointing to a possible linkage between them. Developing CD4+CD8+ thymocytes are intrinsically sensitive to apoptosis, but the molecular basis is not known. We have found that these noncycling cells surprisingly express many cell cycle proteins. We generated transgenic mice expressing a CDK2 kinase-dead (CDK2-DN) protein in the T cell compartment. Analysis of these mice showed that the CDK2-DN protein acts as a dominant negative mutant in mature T cells as expected, but surprisingly, it acts as a dominant active protein in CD4+CD8+ thymocytes. The levels of CDK2 kinase activity, cyclin E, cyclin A, and other cell cycle proteins in transgenic CD4+CD8+ thymocytes are increased. Concurrently, caspase levels are elevated, and apoptosis is significantly enhanced in vitro and in vivo. E2F-1, the unique E2F member capable of inducing apoptosis when overexpressed, is specifically up-regulated in transgenic CD4+CD8+ thymocytes but not in other T cell populations. These results demonstrate that the cell cycle and apoptotic machineries are normally linked, and expression of cell cycle proteins in developing T cells contributes to their inherent isensitivity to apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A novel natural rubber/silica (NR/SiO2) nanocomposite is developed by combining self-assembly and latex-compounding techniques. The results show that the SiO2 nanoparticles are homogenously distributed throughout NR matrix as nano-clusters with an average size ranged from 60 to 150nm when the SiO2 loading is less than 6.5wt%. At low SiO2 contents (⩽4.0wt%), the NR latex (NRL) and SiO2 particles are assembled as a core-shell structure by employing poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) as an inter-medium, and only primary aggregations of SiO2 are observed. When more SiO2 is loaded, secondary aggregations of SiO2 nanoparticles are gradually generated, and the size of SiO2 cluster dramatically increases. The thermal/thermooxidative resistance and mechanical properties of NR/SiO2 nanocomposites are compared to the NR host. The nanocomposites, particularly when the SiO2 nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed, possess significantly enhanced thermal resistance and mechanical properties, which are strongly depended on the morphology of nanocomposites. The NR/SiO2 has great potential to manufacture medical protective products with high performances. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The thermal degradation mechanism of a novel polyvinyl alcohol/silica (PVA/SiO2) nanocomposite prepared with self-assembly and solution-compounding techniques is presented. Due to the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles, the thermal degradation of the nanocomposite, compared to that of pure PVA, occurs at higher temperatures, requires more reaction activation energy (E), and possesses higher reaction order (n). The PVA/SiO2 nanocomposite, similar to the pure PVA, thermally degrades as a two-step-degradation in the temperature ranges of 300–450°C and 450–550°C, respectively. However, the introduction of SiO2 nanoparticles leads to a remarkable change in the degradation mechanism. The degradation products identified by Fourier transform infrared/thermogravimetric analysis (FTIR/TGA) and pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometric analysis (Py-GC/MS) suggests that the first degradation step of the nanocomposite mainly involves the elimination reactions of H2O and residual acetate groups as well as quite a few chain-scission reactions. The second degradation step is dominated by chain-scission reactions and cyclization reactions, and continual elimination of residual acetate groups is also found in this step. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the present study, the isothermal crystallisation kinetics and behaviour of polyvinylalcohol/silica (PVA/SiO2) nanocomposite prepared with self assembly monolayer (SAM) technique are characterized by conducting differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) analysis. Several kinetics equations are employed to describe the isothermal crystallisation of PVA/SiO2 nanocomposite compared to the pure PVA. During the isothermal crystallisation, the peak crystallisation time (t p ), half time of crystallisation (t 1/2), degree of crystallinity (X c ), relative degree of crystallinity (X t ) and kinetic rate constant (k) all show a strong dependence on the crystallisation temperature and the presence of SiO2, while the Avrami exponent (n) is hardly affected by crystallisation temperature and SiO2. Activation energy (E) for pure PVA and PVA/SiO2 nanocomposite are 235.8kJ/mol and 319.7kJ/mol, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polyvinylalcohol/Silica (PVA/SiO2) nanocomposites with different SiO2 contents are synthesized by employing a novel self-assembly monolayer (SAM) technique. The influence of the silica on dynamic mechanical properties of the nanocomposites is investigated by conducting dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and quasi-thermal mechanical analysis (Q-TMA). It is found that the storage modulus (E′), loss factor (tga), glass transition temperature (T g), and activation energy (E a) of prepared nanocomposites all show a strong dependence on the SiO2 content. The Q-TMA results indicate that under a constant force, the elasticity of nanocomposites decreases with SiO2 content, and the softening temperature moves to a higher temperature when more SiO2 is added. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a modified Braden scale, to evaluate its predictive validity, and to identify a more valid pressure ulcer risk calculator for application in acute care hospitals in Mainland China among the modified Braden, Braden, and Norton scales. The initial modified Braden scale, with the addition of skin type and body build for height, was proposed in this study. Four hundred twenty-nine subjects who were admitted to two acute care hospitals in Mainland China within 24 hr and free of pressure ulcers upon admission were assessed with the initial modified Braden, Braden, and Norton scales by three nurse assessors. This was followed by a daily skin assessment to note any pressure ulcer by a nurse assessor. Nine subjects had pressure ulcers detected at Stages I (89%) and II (11%) after an average stay of 11 days. The descriptive analysis of each subscale scoring item in the initial modified Braden scale indicated that skin type and body build for height were the most distinct predictive factors whereas nutrition was the least distinct factor for predicting pressure ulcer development. Based on these findings, the modified Braden scale was further developed with the addition of skin type and body build for height and by exclusion of nutrition. The predictive validity test reported that the modified Braden scale demonstrated a better balance of sensitivity (89%) and specificity (75%) at a cutoff score of 16, with a higher positive predictive value (7%), than the Braden and Norton scales. This finding revealed that for this sample, the modified Braden scale is more effective in pressure ulcer risk prediction than the other two scales. Because the modified Braden scale is not 100% sensitive and specific, to increase clinical efficacy in the prevention of pressure ulcer, it is recommended that it be adopted combined with nursing judgment to predict pressure ulcer development in acute care settings in Mainland China. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to construct functional tissue-engineered bone in dogs using cell sheet engineering, a new technique to gain and transfer seed cells. Materials and Methods: Demineralized bone matrixes, prepared from homologous bone, were coated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2. Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) were isolated and subcultured. Osteogenic-induced BMSCs were incubated in a temperature-responsive culture dish to form the BMSC sheet. The complex of demineralized bone matrix, recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2, and BMSCs wrapped with BMSC sheets was implanted around the blood vessels of the latissimus dorsi muscle in the experimental side, and the same complex without BMSC sheets was implanted around the blood vessels of the latissimus dorsi muscle on the other side as a control. At 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after implantation, the implants were removed for radiographic evaluation, descriptive histologic observation, and histologic quantitative analysis. Results: Radiographic analysis showed that the optical density of the tissue-engineered bone on the 2 sides increased with time. However, the optical density of the experimental side was significantly greater than that of the control side at the same points. Sixteen weeks after implantation, mature lamellar bone was formed in the experimental side, with red bone marrow in the bone marrow cavity. In contrast, the control side exhibited significantly less lamellar bone. Histologic quantitative analysis showed that the experimental side exhibited significantly more bone per area compared with the control side. Conclusion: BMSC sheet engineering may be useful to construct functional tissue-engineered bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several mitochondrial tRNA mutations have been associated with hypertension, but their pathophysiology remains poorly understood. In this report, we identified a novel homoplasmic 3253T3C mutation in the mitochondrial tRNALeu(UUR) gene in a Han Chinese family with maternally inherited hypertension. The m.3253T→C mutation affected a highly conserved uridine at position 22 at the D-stem of tRNALeu(UUR), introducing a G-C base pairing (G13-C22) at the D-stem and a tertiary base pairing (C22-G46) between the D-stem and the variable loop.Wetherefore hypothesized that the m.3253T→C mutation altered both the structure and function of tRNALeu(UUR). Using cytoplasmic hybrid (cybrid) cell lines derived from this Chinese family, we demonstrated that the m.3253T→C mutation perturbed the conformation and stability of tRNALeu(UUR), as suggested by faster electrophoretic mobility of mutated tRNA relative to the wild-type molecule. Northern blot analysis revealed an ∼45% decrease in the steady-state level of tRNALeu(UUR) in the mutant cell lines carrying the m.3253T→C mutation, as compared with control cell lines. Moreover, an ∼35% reduction in aminoacylation efficiency of tRNALeu(UUR) was observed in the m.3253T→C mutant cells. These alterations in tRNALeu(UUR) metabolism impaired mitochondrial translation, especially for those polypeptides with a high proportion of Leu(UUR) codons, such as ND6. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the m.3253T→C mutation decreased the activities of mitochondrial complexes I and V, markedly diminished mitochondrial ATP levels and membrane potential, and increased the production of reactive oxygen species in the cells. In conclusion, our findings may provide new insights into the pathophysiology of maternally inherited hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A smooth slag flow out of gasifier bottom is key to a reliable operation of entrained flow gasifier. Therefore, avoiding slag blockage at the bottom of gasifier is very essential. Under the gasifier reduction operation conditions, precipitation of metallic iron from the liquid slag sometimes occurred. This solidified slag resulted in the gasifier outlet blockage. Consequently, gasifier operation has to stop. In this study, the thermodynamic software FactSage was used to predict the behavior of iron in the liquid slag within the temperature range of gasifier normal operation. From the results of this study, the mechanism of iron precipitation was revealed. The study showed that due to the higher reducing gas ratio in the syngas, the precipitation of metallic iron only occurred in the pulverized coal gasifiers instead of the coal water slurry gasifiers. When weight ratio of SiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 is too low, or CaO content is too high in the slag, Fe 2 + is not able to be saturated in the liquid phase. As a result, precipitation of metallic iron from slag was observed. A β value (β = Si 4 + / (Ca 2 + + Al 3 + ), mole basis) of 1.25 was regarded as the boundary of metallic iron precipitation when 18.4% Fe 2 O 3 content in coal ash. Finally, a metallic iron precipitation predicting model was given by using ternary phase diagram to guide the feedstock selection for the coal application in the entrained flow gasifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tobelite from coal was processed to remove impurities and submitted to thermal treatments. The thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) was employed to investigate the thermal behavior of tobelite between 25 and 1500 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transformation (DRIFT) spectroscopy were used to examine the structural change of tobelite and the dehydroxylation and deamination process. The results show that the thermal transformation of tobelite can be divided into three stages: − 350 °C (stage I), 350–1000 °C (stage II), and 1000–1500 °C (stage III). The following kinetic triplet in the dehydroxylation and deamination process at stage II were calculated: E α = 199.67 kJ mol − 1 , f(α) = (1/3)(1 − α)[− ln (1 − α)] − 2 and A = 6.76 × 10 13 min − 1 . Meanwhile, the thermodynamic functions (Δ S , Δ H , Δ G ) calculated using activated complex theory shows that dehydroxylation and deamination process is endothermic. The proposed mechanism of tobelite decomposition includes multi-step reactions: (1). Condensation of water molecule in the octahedral layer; (2) Transmission of water molecules through the tetrahedral ring; (3) Migration of water and ammonia molecules through the interlayer region and recombination of silica and alumina tetrahedron into metatobelite; (4) Metatobelite transformation into mullite at around 1030 °C. Besides, the deamination and dehydroxylation process proceeds simultaneously, but the former occurs more easily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: For the 2×2 nonuniform micro-scanning, of which the interframe displacement is no longer equivalent to accurate half-pixel, a sub-pixel processing algorithm based on boundary recursion and error optimization is proposed in this paper. Boundary recursive technique is introduced to solve the ill-posed problem in the process of nonuniform micro-scanning sub-pixel image reconstruction, but the manually predefined boundary values in boundary recursion inevitably result in error. Aiming at eliminating the error in boundary recursion, error optimization based on gray statistical principle is used in this paper. All the simulation results and experiment data show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can realize accurate sub-pixel imaging and improve image resolution. The algorithm is robust, simple and effective, and it is hopeful to be used in actual system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• TRIM25, a novel host factor, inhibits replication of PRRSV. • PRRSV N protein impedes TRIM25–RIG-I interactions by competitively binding TRIM25. • PRRSV N inhibits TRIM25 expression and RIG-I ubiquitination to suppress IFN-β production. • TRIM25 diminishes the inhibitory effect of PRRSV N on RIG-I ubiquitination. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is caused by PRRS virus (PRRSV), and is characterized by respiratory diseases in piglet and reproductive disorders in sow. Identification of sustainable and effective measures to mitigate PRRSV transmission is a pressing problem. The nucleocapsid (N) protein of PRRSV plays a crucial role in inhibiting host innate immunity during PRRSV infection. In the current study, a new host-restricted factor, tripartite motif protein 25 (TRIM25), was identified as an inhibitor of PRRSV replication. Co-immunoprecipitation assay indicated that the PRRSV N protein interferes with TRIM25–RIG-I interactions by competitively interacting with TRIM25. Furthermore, N protein inhibits the expression of TRIM25 and TRIM25-mediated RIG-I ubiquitination to suppress interferon β production. Furthermore, with increasing TRIM25 expression, the inhibitory effect of N protein on the ubiquitination of RIG-I diminished. These results indicate for the first time that TRIM25 inhibits PRRSV replication and that the N protein antagonizes the antiviral activity by interfering with TRIM25-mediated RIG-I ubiquitination. This not only provides a theoretical basis for the development of drugs to control PRRSV replication, but also better explains the mechanism through which the PRRSV N protein inhibits innate immune responses of the host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The WAAM profiled corrugated steel bar is proposed. • The WAAM profiled corrugated steel bar enhances the bond behavior. • The peak bond strength and initial stiffness increase with the increase in rib depth. • The five-branch model is used to describe the bond behavior of the WAAM steel bar. Wire and arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology is a feasible method for manufacturing steel bars to achieve the digital and automatic construction of reinforced concrete structures. However, the bond behavior between the WAAM steel bar and concrete does not meet the requirements of engineering applications. To enhance the bond behavior of the WAAM steel bar, the profiled corrugated steel bar is proposed. In this paper, one group of the natural roughness steel bar and three groups of the profiled corrugated steel bar with varying rib depths were fabricated using WAAM. A comprehensive description of the manufacturing principle and macrostructure of the WAAM steel bar was provided. Additionally, the mechanical properties and bond behavior of the WAAM steel bar were systematically investigated. The results show that the manufacturing precision of the WAAM steel bar can be improved by dynamically controlling the molten pool. The structure of the corrugated rib significantly enhances the bond strength and initial stiffness, with a slight reduction in the equivalent tensile strength and elongation compared to the WAAM natural roughness steel bar. Moreover, the normalized bond strength and initial stiffness of the WAAM profiled corrugated steel bar increase with the increase in rib depth. The experimental curve shows that the five-branch bond stress-slip model developed in this study can evaluate the bond behavior between the WAAM steel bar and concrete satisfactorily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swine influenza A viruses (SIVs) causing outbreaks of acute, highly contagious respiratory disease in pigs also pose a potential threat to public health. European avian-like H1N1 (EA H1N1) SIVs are the predominant circulating viruses in pigs in China and also occasionally cause human infection. In this study, a high-growth reassortant virus (SH1/PR8), with HA and NA genes from a representative EA H1N1 isolate A/Swine/Shanghai/1/2014 (SH1) in China and six internal genes from the high-growth A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (PR8) virus, was generated by plasmid-based reverse genetics and tested as a candidate seed virus for the preparation of inactivated vaccine. The protective efficacy of inactivated SH1/PR8 was evaluated in mice and pigs challenged with wild-type SH1 virus. After primer and boost vaccination, the SH1/PR8 vaccine induced high-level hemagglutination inhibiting (HI) antibodies, IgG antibodies, and neutralization antibodies in mice and pigs. Mice and pigs in the vaccinated group showed less clinical phenomena and pathological changes than those in the unvaccinated group. In conclusion, the inactivated high-growth reassortant vaccine SH1/PR8 could induce high antibody levels and complete protection is expected against SH1 wild type SIV, and protection against heterologous EA H1N1 SIV needs further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct liquefaction of Chinese Hami sub-bituminous coal was conducted with binary mixtures of hydrogen donor solvent tetralin (THN) and non-donor 1-methylnaphthalene (1-MN) or naphthalene (Nap.). Effects of solvent composition, temperature, atmosphere, and catalyst FeS 2 on product distribution and hydrogen consumption were investigated at solvent/coal mass ratio of 2. The results show that oil yield increases from 47.70% to 59.95% with 1-MN/THN ratio changing from 2:1 to 1:2. Hydrogen donating ability of binary solvents increases with the rising ratio of THN. H 2 contributes noticeably positive effect on coal conversion in the case of liquefaction with insufficient hydrogen donor solvent. Oil yield obtained during direct coal liquefaction (DCL) with Nap./THN is 58.32%, which is 10.62% higher than that with 1-MN/THN at same solvent ratio of 2:1. This is owing to demethylation effect of 1-MN under liquefaction condition. 1-MN demethylation is induced by active hydrogen and coal radicals, and could consume noticeable hydrogen during DCL. This indicates that the amount of alkylarenes included in liquefaction mixed solvents should be limited, or sufficient hydrogen donor solvent is required to achieve high coal conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Particles invasion can make downhole sealing failure occur more easily. • In-situ observation method was designed to study the particles invasion process. • Particles invasion into the FKM sealing interface under vibration was observed. • Changes in sealing boundaries and particles position due to vibration. • Frequency of vibration affected the ease of particles invasion behavior. The invasion behavior of particles in the drilling fluid under vibration conditions may lead to sealing failure more easily. A test rig was designed to simulate the operating condition of FKM O-rings under vibration and particles environment. In-situ observations of particles invasion behavior were also performed. The results showed that two behavior of sealing boundaries movement and particles displacement would lead jointly to particles invasion into the sealing interface. It was also shown that both behaviors were induced by vibration and that their salience was influenced by the effect frequency of vibration. A new method to study this problem was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extraction residue (ER) from Xinghe lignite was subjected to ethanolysis at 300 °C and the yield of ethanol-soluble portion (ESP) is 66.8 wt% (daf). The ER was characterized by solid-state 13 C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry (SS 13 C NMRS) and X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS), while non-basic and basic heteroatom-containing species in the ESP were analyzed by negative- and positive-ion electrospray ionization (ESI) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICRMS), respectively. According to the characterization by SS 13 C NMRS, the ER contains 56.6% of aromatic carbon and 37.8% of aliphatic carbon and each aromatic cluster contains 2 aromatic rings on average. The characterization by XPS suggests that OH, pyrrolic nitrogen, thiophene, and sulfoxide are important heteroatom occurrences in the ER. According to the analysis by ESI FTICRMS, the non-basic and basic species distribute in the range of molecular mass from 160 to 450 u and 200 to 950 u , respectively. The abundant O 2 class species among the identified non-basic species could be alkanoic acids, arenediols, and arenoic acids. Non-basic N and NO classes could be pyrroles, indoles, and carbazoles with double bond equivalent (DBE) values from 1 to 16 and carbon numbers (CNs) from 7 to 28. The NO x class species dominate the basic species and span wider DBE values (4–24) and CNs (14–54). Most of these species could be attributed to quinolines (DBE ⩾ 7), acridines (DBE ⩾ 10), and N -heterocyclic aromatics with at least 4 rings like benzoacridine ring (DBE = 13). Sulfur in the acidic classes ( O 3 S , S 2 , and OS 2 ) mainly exists in mercapto group and/or thiophene ring, while the basic OS and O 2 S classes may have sulfur present in thiophene sulfoxides and thiophene sulfones, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate effects of exchangeable metallic species on solvent extraction of lignites and provide a reference for demineralization of lignites rich in alkali and alkaline earth metals (AAEMs), Xiaolongtan lignite (XL) was subjected to acid treatments by hydrochloric acid or ammonium acetate solution separately. Exchangeable metallic species, including Ca 2 + and Na + , were subsequently loaded into the partly demineralized sample by ion-exchanged method. Raw coal and all the treated samples were then extracted by organic solvents with different polarities. The variations of functional groups during extraction process and the separated portions were characterized by multiple techniques. The results show that exchangeable metallic species could reduce extract yields of XL. Low extract yields could be attributed to the enhanced compactness of coal structure and inefficient interactions between coal and solvent molecules. The demineralized treatment, especially when hydrochloric acid was used, could obviously increase the extract yields with pyridine or tetrahydrofuran by releasing ionic cross-links and the inherent hydrogen bonds in lignites. On the contrary, ammonium acetate treatment contributes slightly to increasing extract yields. According to the decreasing ratio of extract yields, it could be verified that the intensity of hydrogen bond O ⋯ H is stronger than that of N ⋯ H formed between coal and solvents. Gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer detection indicates that the compositions of extracts strongly depend on the solvent types and the amount of AAEMs. In conclusion, existence of AAEMs significantly influences the dissolving capacity of lignites in organic solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome viruses (PRRSV), NT1, NT2, and NT3, were isolated from three dying piglets from a single pig farm in Jiangsu Province, China. Whole genome sequencing revealed that the three isolates share the highest homology with JXA1-P80, an attenuated vaccine strain developed by serial passage of highly pathogenic PRRSV JXA1 in MARC-145 cells. More than ten amino acids residues in ORF1a, ORF1b, GP4, and GP5 that were thought to be unique to JXA1 attenuated on MARC-145 cells were each found in the corresponding locations of NT1, NT2, and NT3. In virulence assays, piglets infected with NT1, NT2, or NT3 exhibited clinical signs of disease, including high fever, anorexia, and respiratory distress, leading to the death of the majority of the piglets within two weeks. Collectively, these data indicate that NT1, NT2, and NT3 are highly pathogenic PRRSVs and they are likely to be revertants of the vaccine strain JXA1-P80. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-rank coals concurrently contain organically bound alkali and alkaline earth metals (AAEM species) and discrete mineral matters. In this work, the influences of exchangeable calcium cations and discrete calcium salts on direct liquefaction of a Ca 2 + -rich lignite were investigated. The raw coal was partially demineralized by ammonium acetate solution and certain amounts of Ca 2 + were loaded into the demineralized coal (DMC) by ion-exchanged or physical mixing method separately. The amount of exchangeable Ca 2 + and -COOH groups were finely correlated by FTIR spectra. Temperature programmed liquefaction of various samples was performed to obtain the product distributions. Experimental results of liquefaction demonstrate that exchangeable Ca 2 + present in coal are adverse to direct liquefaction process and Ca 2 + loaded by physical mixing method have less detrimental effects on the oil yield compared with the exchangeable ones. The reason could be attributed to that exchangeable Ca 2 + accelerate generation of CO 2 and free radical fragments through coal pyrolysis, which enhance the unbalance between generation rate of free radicals and that of their combination with hydrogen donors, and eventually results in the formation of tetrahydrofuran-insoluble portion (THFISP). Therefore, oil generation during liquefaction of the lignite is mainly inhibited by exchangeable Ca 2 + and the influences of discrete calcium salts are negligible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Folate–chitosan (FA–CS) conjugates synthesized by coupling FA with CS render new and improved functions because the original properties of CS are maintained and the targeting ligand of FA is incorporated. In this work, FA–CS conjugates were synthesized based on chemical linking of carboxylic group of FA with amino group of CS as confirmed by Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). FA–CS conjugates displayed less crystal nature when compared to CS. The FA–CS nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by crosslinking FA–CS conjugates with sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP). Positively charged FA–CS nanoparticles were spherical in shape with a particle size of about 100nm. Cellular uptake of CS or FA–CS nanoparticles was assayed by fluorescent microscopy using calcein as fluorescent marker in colon cancer cells (HT-29). The FA–CS nanoparticles exhibited improved uptake of HT-29 and could become a potential targeted drug delivery system for colorectal cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Contrast-induced nephropathy limits the outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The present study compared the protective effects of different statin doses on renal function. A total of 228 patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing selective PCI were randomly divided into simvastatin 20-mg group (S20, n = 115) and simvastatin 80-mg group (S80, n = 113). Serum creatinine was measured at admission, the day of PCI, and 24 and 48 hours after PCI. The creatinine clearance was calculated using the Cochcroft-Gault formula. High-sensitive C-reactive protein, P-selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 were also measured before and after the procedure. Contrast-induced nephropathy was defined as a postprocedure increase in serum creatinine of ≥0.5 mg/dl or >25% from baseline. The serum creatinine significantly increased after PCI, with the peak value occurring at 24 hours, and then began to decrease. At 48 hours, the serum creatinine had decreased to the baseline level in the S80 group, but it had failed to do so in the S20 group. At 24 and 48 hours after PCI, the serum creatinine was lower in the S80 group than in the S20 group (p <0.05 and p <0.001, respectively). The creatinine clearance significantly decreased after PCI, with the lowest value occurring at 24 hours, and then it began to increase. In the S80 group, the creatinine clearance recovered to baseline level at 48 hours, but it failed to do so in the S20 group. The creatinine clearance was greater at 24 and 48 hours in the S80 group than that in the S20 group. Although the procedure caused a significant increase in high-sensitive C-reactive protein, P-selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 levels, the value was lower in the S80 group than in the S20 group (p <0.001). In conclusion, pretreatment with simvastatin 80 mg before PCI could further decrease the occurrence of contrast-induced nephropathy compared with simvastatin 20 mg. This benefit was associated with the lowering of high-sensitive C-reactive protein, P-selectin, and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 levels. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • A novel panel-core connection method of large-size lattice sandwich structure based on pulse hot wire arc additive manufacturing (PHWAAM) is studied. • The influence of different connection processes on the node connection effect is explored, and the process is finally optimized. • PHWAAM is used to connect large-size sandwich panels (Centimeter scale). • The node connected by PHWAAM have good mechanical properties and high connection efficiency. Large size sandwich structure is involved in a wide range of applications, such as aerospace and ship. However, the weak connection between panel and lattice is the bottleneck problem restricting their application. To solve this problem, this work demonstrates a novel circular scanning connection method based on pulse hot-wire arc additive manufacturing (PHWAAM) to connect the centimeter-scale and meter-scale panel. This method exhibits great connection quality (without unmelted holes) and high efficiency (about 60 s for each connection). The optimized process is studied, based on systematical analysis of the microstructure, the macro defects, and the compression testing results. By comparing and analyzing three different connection modes, the optimized circular scanning process has the advantages of low heat input and high deposition efficiency. It can be observed from the microstructure that there are equiaxed crystals and short columnar crystals in the connection area. The width of acicular α phase is finer than that of other processes, which is conducive to improving the mechanical properties. The connection area of the circular scanning process has a better matching of strength and plasticity through the compression test. Finally, the proposed connection method is also applicable to fabricate multi-cell lattice sandwich structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The anti-depressive mechanisms of Millettia speciosa Champ (MSC) were studied. • Urine metabolomics based on UPLC-Q-TOF/MS was established to elucidate the pathogenesis of depression. • Nine metabolites were considered as potential biomarkers related to CUMS-induced depression. • Pentose and glucuronate interconversions, and tyrosine metabolism contributed to MSC efficacy. • L -isoleucine, sebacic acid, and allantoin were potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers associated with the efficacy of MSC. As a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Millettia speciosa Champ (MSC), exerts a wide range of pharmacological activities. Our research group previously found that MSC has antidepressant effects, but the specific antidepressant mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, in this study, urine metabolomics based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF/MS) combined with pharmacodynamics was used to explore the pathogenesis of depression and the antidepressant effects of MSC. The results showed that MSC treatment could significantly improve chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression. Urine metabolic showed that the profiles of the CUMS model group were significantly separated from the control group, while the drug-treated groups were closer to the control group, especially the MSC group treated with a 14 g/kg dose of MSC. Furthermore, 9 metabolites, including glutaric acid, L -isoleucine, L -Dopa, sebacic acid, 3-methylhistidine, allantoin, caprylic acid, tryptophol, and 2-phenylethanol glucuronide, were identified as potential biomarkers of depression. Metabolic pathway analysis showed that these potential biomarkers were mainly involved in valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation, tyrosine metabolism, histidine metabolism, fatty acid biosynthesis, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. Through Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and Pearson correlation analysis, the combination of L -isoleucine, sebacic acid, and allantoin, were further screened out as potential pharmacodynamic biomarkers associated with the efficacy of MSC. This study suggests that the integration of metabolomics with pharmacodynamics helps to further understand the pathogenesis of depression and provides novel insight into the efficacy of TCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]