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In this article, the thermoelectric properties of five different polymorphs of gallium phosphide (GaP) such zinc-blende (zb-GaP), wurtzite (wz-GaP), sphalerite (sp-GaP), Beryllium oxide (β-BeO-GaP), and Silicon carbide (SiC-GaP) have been reported in detail. In this regard, the prerequisite electronic structure calculations have been performed in the framework of density functional theory (DFT), whereas the results for thermoelectric properties have been obtained via Boltzmann transport theory (BTT). We found that these GaP polymorphs exhibit relatively higher electrical conductivity corresponding to holes as a result larger power factors (PFs) have been realized for n-type doping than p-type. The highest values of PF corresponding to n-type doping have been recorded as 27.492 × 1010 W/mK2s, 27.999 × 1010 W/mK2s, 29.491 × 1010 W/mK2s, 15.706 × 1010 W/mK2s, and 26.557 × 1010 W/mK2s respectively, for zb-GaP, wz-GaP, sp-GaP, β-BeO- GaP, and SiC-GaP. Moreover, their PF has been further enhanced by the increase in temperature. In contrast, the Seebeck coefficients (thermopowers) have been found relatively larger for p-type doping than n-type. The relatively large thermopowers and lower thermal conductivity for p-type doping have resulted in the enhancement of Figure-of-merit (zT) by holes rather than electrons. The highest zT values have been recorded as 0.997, 1.004, 0.998, 1.001, and 1.010 in the case of zb-GaP, wz-GaP, sp-GaP, β-BeO-GaP, and SiC-GaP respectively. Our study indicates the adequate potential of these different polymorphs of GaP for thermoelectric applications.

The development of highly stable and efficient oxide-based red phosphors is urgently required for next-generation lighting devices. Herein, we report the micro/crystal structures and luminescent properties of single-phase Eu2(WO4)3 and Eu3+-doped WO3-Eu2(WO4)3 composite phosphors prepared by a one-step conventional solid-state reaction method in air atmosphere. As increasing Eu contents in the mixtures of WO3 and Eu2O3, the intensities of the X-ray diffraction peaks of Eu2(WO4)3 increased while that of WO3 decreased. The photoluminescence intensity of the synthesized phosphors increased with increase in the Eu content when calcined at 900 °C, while it degraded at a higher temperature. Red-emitting single-phase Eu2(WO4)3 powders were successfully obtained when the WO3 and Eu2O3 powders were calcined in the ratio of 3:1. The intensity of the red emission spectra of the Eu2(WO4)3 phosphor was higher than those of the 6, 12, and 24 at.% Eu-added WO3 composites at excitation wavelengths of 394 and 465 nm. On the other hand, the intensity of emission from the single-phase phosphor was lower than that of the Eu-doped WO3-Eu2(WO4)3 composites under excitation of UV light at 254 nm. Thus, we propose two prospective phosphors for application as red phosphors at various wavelengths.

Tin-based intermetallic compounds are regarded as a promising alternative for Li secondary battery anodes due to their high specific and volumetric capacity, as well as their low operating potential. However, the materials’ cycling performance still cannot meet the required standards for commercialization. In this study, we designed and synthesized a Sn2Fe-TiOx-C composite as a high-capacity anode material via high-energy mechanical milling and hydrogen treatment. The synthesized material was characterized by several analytical tools. The reaction mechanism of the composite electrode with Li was investigated with ex situ X-ray diffraction analysis, and the conversion of Sn2Fe to Li–Sn alloy and Fe during Li insertion and its reversibility were confirmed. The results of an electrochemical test showed that a reversible capacity of 651 mAh g−1 was retained after 100 cycles. This cycling stability could be attributed to the microstructure in which Sn2Fe was uniformly distributed in the TiOx and carbon matrix. Additionally, there was an improvement in rate performance after hydrogen treatment because titanium oxide produced during mechanical milling was partially reduced, which was helpful for enhancing the electrical conductivity of the composite electrode.

The overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is recognized as a hallmark of several solid tumors, and the anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody and its engineered variants have been developed as therapeutic or diagnostic tools for HER2-overexpressing cancers. Here, we demonstrate the first example of extracellular production of an anti-HER2 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) in Escherichia coli via a non-peptide-guided secretion. The initial construct expressing an engineered green fluorescent protein-fused scFv was successful in extracellular secretion, but the expressed protein appeared to be readily truncated before the final purification. Alternatively, by adding Triton X-100 to the culture media, maltose-binding protein (MBP)-fused scFv could be secreted without significant truncation, and homogeneous purification of the intact protein was enabled. The affinity of the MBP-fused scFv to the extracellular domain of HER2 was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the dissociation constant of the finally isolated scFv estimated by surface plasmon resonance was approximately 0.2 nM, which was superior to the other known anti-HER2 scFvs. Given that anti-HER2 scFv is an invaluable asset for developing various therapeutic or diagnostic agents for cancers, we expect that our method for the extracellular production will enable a better manufacturing process for its industrial application.

In this paper, we propose an angular momentum-based advection technique that can express the turbulent foam effect. The motion of foam particles, which are strongly bound to the motion of the underlying fluid, is viscous, and sometimes clumping problems occur. This problem is a decisive factor that makes it difficult to express realistic foam effects. Since foam particles, which are secondary effects, depend on the motion of the underlying water, in order to exaggerate the foam effects or express more lively foam effects, it is inevitable to tune the motion of the underlying water and then readjust the foam particles. Because of such a cumbersome process, the readjustment of the foam effects requires a change in the motion of the underlying water, and it is not easy to produce such a scene because the water and foam effects must change at the same time. In this paper, we present a method to maintain angular momentum-based force from water particles without tuning the motion of the underlying water. We can restore the lost turbulent flow by additional advection of foam particles based on this force. In addition, our method can be integrated with screen-space projection frameworks, allowing us to fully embrace all the advantages of this approach. In this paper, the turbulence of the foam particles was improved by minimizing the viscous motion of the foam particles without tuning the motion of the underlying water, and as a result, lively foam effects can be expressed.

By applying the optimized DC arc plasma torches (DCAPTs) to gas atomization (GA), the new hybrid atomization (HA) system with three DCAPTs was developed to improve typical GA techniques by using higher superheats from plasma jets with high heat flux. Before mounting on a HA system, the anode structure of a DCAPT was optimized by the experimental investigation with flow simulation. A DCAPT had high thermal efficiency about 80% for the stable operation of a DCAPT at power of 15–20 kW and nitrogen gas flow rate of 80 SLM with the optimized anode structure. First experimental results of tin, copper, and stainless steel metal powders by the developed HA system with three DCAPTs were analyzed by using the scanning electron microscope (SEM). High quality of spherical shape was observed from the atomized tin, copper, and stainless steel powders. The atomized powders with high size distribution were observed as tin (

Despite its high theoretical energy density, lithium metal faces huge challenges in its implementation as an anode for Li secondary batteries because of its uncontrollable dendritic growth and large volume change during plating/stripping processes. These geometric changes cause degradation in a cell’s cycle life and performance and can lead to short-circuits and explosions. Here, we report a new approach to producing a LiF-rich phase on the lithium anode surface by employing a “bi-phase” separator. We fabricated it by coating polyvinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP) onto a cellulose separator. The coverage of coating was adjusted by varying its concentration in the coating solution. The combination of cellulose and PVDF-HFP produced a LiF-rich solid-electrolyte interphase layer on the Li metal surface via an alkyl halide nucleophile exchange in contact with the bi-phase separator during plating. Symmetric cell tests show that the bi-phase separator extends the cycle life by more than 300 h, with overpotentials of less than 100 mV under plating/stripping at 2 mA cm−2 for a capacity of 2 mAh cm−2. The formation mechanism of the LiF-rich phase is suggested from spectroscopic analyses.

As electric vehicle (EV) sales grew approximately 50% year-over-year, surpassing 3.2 million units in 2020, the "roaring era" of EV is around the corner. To meet the increasing demand for low cost and high energy density batteries, anode-free configuration, with no heavy and voluminous host material on the current collector, has been proposed and further investigated. Nevertheless, it always suffers from several nonnegligible "bottlenecks", such as fragile solid electrolyte interface, deteriorated cycling reversibility, and uncontrolled dendrite formation. Inspired by the "compensatory effect" of some disabled people with other specific functions strengthened to make up for their inconvenience, corresponding quasi-compensatory measures after anode removal, involving dimensional compensation, SEI robustness compensation, lithiophilicity compensation, and lithium source compensation, have been carried out and achieved significant battery performance enhancement. In this review, the chemistry, challenges, and rationally designed "quasi-compensatory effect" associated with anode-free lithium-ion battery are systematically discussed with several possible R&D directions that may aid, direct, or facilitate future research on lithium storage in anode-free configuration essentially emphasized.

The polytypism of solids has been established as one of the most effective approaches to alter their physical properties. In this first-principles-based study, we practiced the polytypism of galliu...

Purpose To evaluate the role of substance P (SP)/neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R) system in the regulation of pathologic corneal lymphangiogenesis in dry eye disease (DED). Methods Immunocytochemistry, angiogenesis assay, and Western blot analysis of human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HDLECs) were conducted to assess the involvement of SP/NK1R system in lymphangiogenesis. DED was induced in wild-type C57BL/6 J mice using controlled-environment chamber without scopolamine. Immunohistochemistry, corneal fluorescein staining, and phenol red thread test were used to evaluate the effect of SP signaling blockade in the corneal lymphangiogenesis. The expression of lymphangiogenic factors in the corneal and conjunctival tissues of DED mouse model was quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results NK1R expression and pro-lymphangiogenic property of SP/NK1R system in HDLECs were confirmed by Western blot analysis and angiogenesis assay. Blockade of SP signaling with L733,060, an antagonist of NK1R, or NK1R-targeted siRNA significantly inhibited lymphangiogenesis and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 3 stimulated by SP in HDLECs. NK1R antagonist also suppressed pathological corneal lymphangiogenesis and ameliorated the clinical signs of dry eye in vivo. Furthermore, NK1R antagonist effectively suppressed the lymphangiogenic factors, including VEGF-C, VEGF-D, and VEGF receptor 3 in the corneal and conjunctival tissues of DED. Conclusions SP/NK1R system promotes lymphangiogenesis in vitro and NK1R antagonism suppresses pathologic corneal lymphangiogenesis in DED in vivo.

The performances of electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) devices were investigated using micro-nano hierarchical structures of pristine and noble metal-decorated SiO2 layers, with the entropy wetting model. The SiO2 layers were prepared by an electrospray technique, and noble metals were decorated by UV irradiation. In addition, a thin Teflon coating was applied to enhance their initial hydrophobicity. The initial water contact angle (WCA) value of the Pd-decorated SiO2 (Pd–SiO2) and Ag-decorated SiO2 (Ag–SiO2) layers was 165°, while that of the Au-decorated SiO2 (Au–SiO2) and pristine SiO2 layers was 154°. Different external voltages (up to 200 V) were used to investigate the EWOD behavior of the fabricated layers. In all cases, the WCA decreased with increasing applied voltage. Under 200 V (maximum applied voltage), WCA values of 129, 120, 115, and 102° were measured for pristine SiO2, Pd–SiO2, Ag–SiO2, and Au–SiO2 layers, respectively. Moreover, the EWOD properties of the noble metal-decorated layers were studied in the presence of dodecane oil. At 200 V, the WCAs of the Pd–SiO2, Ag–SiO2, Au–SiO2, and layers were 134, 97 and 100°, respectively. Finally, we applied the entropy wetting model to further understand the results of the EWOD experiments.

The aim of this study was to characterize the physicochemical properties and microbial communities of particulate matter (PM) in Seoul, Korea. We collected long-term (2017-2019) precipitation samples and PM10 and PM2.5 monitoring data to determine the impact of soluble and insoluble chemical species on the soil surface. Ambient PM10 concentrations were higher than PM2.5 concentrations during the monitoring period, but both decreased during rainfall due to the washing effect of precipitation. PM2.5 particles had a "fluffy" shape and contained sulfur (0.2%), but suspended particles (SPs) contained many carbon particles (approximately 60%). Spherical particles containing metal oxides, Fe and Al, might be originated from coal combustion, wild fires, and metal-refining processes under high-temperature conditions. Dissolved ions in precipitation included those eluted from salts and coal combustion based on the correlation coefficients of Na and Cl (R = 0.953) and F and NO3 (R = 0.706). The δ15N-NO3 and δ34S-SO4 of precipitation were enriched as the atmospheric temperature decreased from 9.8 to -1.6°C, implying the influence of domestic coal combustion. Backward trajectories showed that, in winter, air parcels passed through industrialized cities from China to South Korea. The microbial communities associated with PM were strongly influenced by atmospheric conditions. Proteobacteria (range from 4.6 to 76.7%) and Firmicutes (range from 6.0 to 91.4%) were the most dominant phyla and were significantly affected by changes in the PM2.5 environment. The results indicate that the acidity of precipitation and the composition of aerosols were affected by fossil fuel combustion and mineral dust, and that atmospheric conditions may change as PM2.5 concentrations increase.

In the search for new natural resources showing plant disease control effects, we found that the methanol extract of Polyalthia longifolia suppressed fungal disease development in plants. To identify the bioactive substances, the methanol extract of P. longifolia was extracted by organic solvents, and consequently, four new 2-oxo-clerodane diterpenes (1-4), a new 4(3 → 2)-abeo-clerodane diterpene (5), together with ten known compounds (6-16) were isolated and identified from the extracts. Of the new compounds, compound 2 showed a broad spectrum of antifungal activity with moderated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in a range of 50-100 μg/mL against tested fungal pathogens. Considering with the known compounds, compound 6 showed the most potent antifungal activity with an MIC value in the range of 6.3-12.5 μg/mL. When compound 6 was evaluated for an in vivo antifungal activity against rice blast, tomato late blight, and pepper anthracnose, compound 6 reduced the plant disease by at least 60% compared to the untreated control at concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/mL. Together, our results suggested that the methanol extract of twigs and leaves of P. longifolia and its major compound 6 could be used as a source for the development of eco-friendly plant protection agents.

D–π–A type quinacridone-based polymers were designed with different acceptor moieties and successfully synthesized via a Suzuki coupling reaction. Depending on the introduction of benzothiadiazole and quinoxaline moieties, the synthesized polymers, poly(quinacridone-thienothiphene-benzothiadiazole) (PQCfTB) and poly(quinacridone-thienothiphene-quinoxaline) (PQCfTQx), showed different physical, optical and electrochemical properties. PQCfTB had a more extended π-conjugation length and a higher number average molecular weight (Mn, 365.1 kDa) than that of PQCfTQx (167.5 kDa). Furthermore, each polymer showed different optical behavior and optical band gaps (Egopt: 1.91 eV for PQCfTB; 1.87 eV for PQCfTQx) in the film state. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) levels of PQCfTB and PQCfTQx were calculated as −5.20 eV and −5.22 eV, as well as −3.29 eV and −3.35 eV, respectively. The XRD measurement results showed that the polymers for PQCfTB and PQCfTQx had bimodal and face-on structures, respectively. Finally, organic solar cells for both polymers were fabricated and optimized with respect to the acceptor. In summary, the PQCfTB-based devices showed higher power conversion efficiencies (w/PC71BM 3.9%; w/IT-M 5.2%; w/PM6:Y6-BO-4Cl 11.0%) than PQcfTQx (2.3%, 4.7%, and 10.0%).

Nucleic acids are a special class of negatively charged polymers, and they can complex with cationic small molecules and polymers to form polyelectrolyte complexes of rich morphology. The initial a...

The use of prime editing-a gene-editing technique that induces small genetic changes without the need for donor DNA and without causing double strand breaks-to correct pathogenic mutations and phenotypes needs to be tested in animal models of human genetic diseases. Here we report the use of prime editors 2 and 3, delivered by hydrodynamic injection, in mice with the genetic liver disease hereditary tyrosinemia, and of prime editor 2, delivered by an adeno-associated virus vector, in mice with the genetic eye disease Leber congenital amaurosis. For each pathogenic mutation, we identified an optimal prime-editing guide RNA by using cells transduced with lentiviral libraries of guide-RNA-encoding sequences paired with the corresponding target sequences. The prime editors precisely corrected the disease-causing mutations and led to the amelioration of the disease phenotypes in the mice, without detectable off-target edits. Prime editing should be tested further in more animal models of genetic diseases.

Retinoblastoma is the most common malignant intraocular tumor in children. Y79 human retinoblastoma cells are in vitro models of retinal tumors used for drug screening. Undifferentiated Y79 cells originate from a primitive multi-potential neuroectodermal cell and express neuronal and glial properties. However, the nature of cellular heterogeneity in Y79 cells is unclear because functional methods to characterize neurons or glial cells have not been employed to Y79 cells. Here, we perform patch-clamp recordings to characterize electrophysiological properties in retinoblastoma cells. We identified a population of large-sized Y79 cells (i.e., giant cells, ~ 40-µm diameter), hyperpolarized resting membrane potential (–54 mV), and low input resistance (~ 600 MΩ), indicating electrically mature cells. We also found that giant Y79 cells contain increased density of T-type calcium channels. Finally, we found that T-type calcium channels are active only in giant cells suggesting that cancer treatments aimed to prevent calcium influx in retinoblastomas should be tested in giant cells.

Several endemic corona viruses (eCoVs) have been reported to be the most common etiologic agents for the seasonal common cold and also cause pneumonia. These eCoVs share extensive sequence homology with SARS-CoV-2, and immune responses to eCoVs can cross-react with SARS-CoV-2 antigens. Based on such cross-reactivity of antigens among eCoVs, the IgG antibodies against the spike protein (SP) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) were isolated from pig serum using magnetic beads immobilized with SARS-CoV SP and a protein-A column. The selectivity of the isolated antibodies was tested using different types of antigens, such as SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein (NP), influenza A virus (Beijing type), influenza B virus (Tokio and Florida types), human hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg), and bovine serum albumin (BSA). From the selectivity test, the anti-SP antibodies isolated from pig serum had sufficient selectivity to other kinds of viral antigens, and the apparent binding constant of the isolated antibodies was approximately 1.5 × 10–8 M from the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements. Finally, the isolated anti-SP antibodies were applied to the immunoassay of SP using competitive immunoassay configuration. The feasibility of the detection as well as the quantitative analysis of the SARS-CoV viral culture fluid was determined using four viral culture samples, namely, SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and CoV-229E.

Lignocellulose nanofibrils (LCNFs) were produced from the biomass of Mongolian oak for the first time using deep eutectic solvent pretreatment and mechanical defibrillation. Three Choline chloride (CC)-based DESs were selected and the effect of various DES pretreatment conditions on the chemical composition of wood sample was studied first. CC/lactic acid (CC/LA) pretreatment caused high lignin and hemicellulose removal whereas CC/urea (CC/U) and CC/glycerin (CC/GLY) pretreatment increased the fiber’s susceptibility to defibrillation. With the significant influence of temperature, its effect on the subsequent mechanical defibrillation was also studied. For all three DESs, pretreatment condition of 1:2 mol ratio, 6 h time, and 140 °C was found optimal for LCNF preparation. LCNFs with diameter

Balsa and kapok fibers are by-products of community plantations. Both fibers have not been optimally utilized in Indonesia. The high holocellulose content and low lignin content of these fibers indicate the potential to be used as a nanocellulose raw material with a simple extraction. The objective of this study was to extract cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) from balsa and kapok fibers through a direct extraction without pre-treatment. CNCs from balsa and kapok fibers were prepared by a one-step procedure with ammonium persulfate solution (APS) at concentrations of 1, 1.5, and 2 mol/L. The CNCs were characterized by determining their morphology, functional groups, crystallinity, and thermal stability using transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The results showed that the diameter of the CNCs was in the range of 1.25–11.87 nm depending on the APS concentration and the fiber type. APS dissolved the lignin and hemicellulose, which led to an increase in the CNCs crystallinity with an increasing APS concentration. The decrease in the thermal stability of the CNCs was thought to be due to the increase in the surface area of the particles and the presence of carboxyl groups in the CNCs. This research revealed that balsa and kapok fibers could be used as raw materials to produce nanocellulose in one-step using ammonium persulfate.

A radon monitoring system capable of continuous real-time monitoring of well gas radon was devised and tested in a climate change observation network. It comprised a radon detector and could help observe the groundwater in a well, blocking the inflow of outside air. The water temperature, electrical conductivity, and water level were also monitored in the groundwater well. The temperature and electrical conductivity were almost constant within a 1% error range in both the 5-day preliminary and the 7-month long-term tests. The groundwater level appeared to be related to radon concentration, and tidal forces may have influenced both radon concentration and groundwater levels.

Bio-composites containing kenaf and starch as the filler and matrix, respectively, and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Polyethylene glycol (PEG) as plasticizers were fabricated. The acetylation of hydrophilic kenaf increased the hydrophobic matrix and surfactant bonding in the complex, and the starch matrix increased the biodegradability. The physical, thermal, and biodegradability properties of composites comprising acetylated kenaf and starch (S), acetylated kenaf, starch, and PVA (S+PVA), and acetylated kenaf, starch, and PEG (S+PEG) were evaluated. The results showed that the acetylation of kenaf caused its surface to swell, improving the interfacial adhesion between kenaf and starch in the composites, whereas PVA and PEG did not enhance the physical properties of the composites. The addition of plasticizers caused a slight improvement in the thermal fluidity and stability of the acetylated kenaf composites. In addition, the composites buried in soil showed higher biodegradability than those buried in compost. The presence of moisture in the soil also increased the biodegradability by 80 %. The results of this study demonstrate the high potential of the acetylated kenaf composites as an alternative to synthetic polymer products. Moreover, considering their biodegradable nature, these composites can be applied in treatments and techniques that are focused on the safe disposal of plastic waste for the mitigation of environmental pollution.

Formation of an electrolyte complex using the electrostatic interactions between a polyanionic polymer and a cationic drug is a simple and efficient method of preparing a colloidal drug carrier system. Dextran sulfate, with a negatively charged sulfate group, was reacted in an acetate buffer solution of pH 3 with positively charged 1° amine, 2° amine, 3° amine, piperazine, and piperidine structures from 24 small-molecule drugs. The electrolyte complex was formed from 15 drugs, 63% of those tested. The tendency to form the electrolyte complex was in the order of piperazine and piperidine >3° amine >>2° amine. The drugs with the 1° amine structure failed to form an electrolyte complex. The mean particle sizes were in the range of 50-740 nm, and most of them showed a submicron colloidal dispersion of

Platycodon grandiflorum (balloon flower) root (Platycodi radix, PR) is used as a health supplement owing to its beneficial bioactive properties. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and whitening effects of deglycosylated platycosides (saponins) from PR biotransformed by pectinase from Aspergillus aculeatus were investigated. The bioactivities of the platycosides improved when the number of sugar moieties attached to the aglycone platycosides was decreased. The deglycosylated saponins exhibited higher lipoxygenase inhibitory activities (anti-inflammatory activities) than the precursor platycosides and the anti-inflammatory compound baicalein. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity of the pectinase-treated PR extract was higher than that of the non-treated PR extract. The trolox-equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay showed improved values as the saponins were hydrolyzed. The tyrosinase inhibitory activities (whitening effects) of deglycosylated platycosides were higher than those of the precursor platycosides. Furthermore, 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl platycosides showed higher anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and whitening activities than their precursor glycosylated platycosides. Therefore, 3-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl platycosides may improve the beneficial effects of nutritional supplements and cosmetic products.

Color changes were tested and compared for heat-treated Paulownia tomentosa and Pinus koraiensis wood treated with hot oil or hot air for further utilization of these species. Hot oil and hot air treatments were conducted at 180, 200, and 220 °C for 1, 2, and 3 h. Heat-treated wood color changes were determined using the CIE-Lab color system. Weight changes of the wood before and after heat treatment were also determined. The weight of the oil heat-treated wood increased considerably but it decreased in air heat-treated wood. The oil heat-treated samples showed a greater decrease in lightness (L*) than air heat-treated samples. A significant change in L* was observed in Paulownia tomentosa. The red/green chromaticity (a*) of both wood samples increased at 180 and 200 °C and slightly decreased at 220 °C. The yellow/blue chromaticity (b*) in both wood samples increased at 180 °C, but it rapidly decreased with increasing treatment durations at 200 and 220 °C. The overall color change (ΔE*) in both heat treatments increased with increasing temperature, being higher in Paulownia tomentosa than in Pinus koraiensis. In conclusion, oil heat treatment reduced treatment duration and was a more effective method than air heat treatment in improving wood color.

Physical and mechanical properties were evaluated for bamboo-oriented strand boards (BOSB) prepared with combinations of two contrasting bamboo species and bonded with phenol formaldehyde resin under various compression ratios. The strands from the culms of Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea and Dendrocalamus asper bamboo were steam-treated at a temperature of 126 °C and a pressure of 0.14 MPa for 1 h and then washed with a 1% NaOH solution. Three-layer dual-species bamboo-oriented strand boards with a shelling ratio of 25 to 50 to 25 (face to core to back) were manufactured with different compression ratios using an 8% phenol formaldehyde adhesive and 1% paraffin. The slenderness ratio and aspect ratio were evaluated by measuring 100 random strands to determine uniformity. The solidity profiles of the dual-species bamboo-oriented strand boards (thickness direction) were relatively uniform. The modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and internal bond values of the dual-species bamboo-oriented strand boards increased as the compression ratio increased, but the water absorption and thickness swelling decreased. The dual-species bamboo-oriented strand boards prepared with compression ratios of 1.44 to 1.25 and 1.54 to 1.33 met all the requirements of CSA standard 0437 (2011). The optimum compression ratio for the preparation of dual-species bamboo-oriented strand boards was 1.44 to 1.25.

Background Most guidelines recommend simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation (SLKT) in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) and severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) over liver transplantation alone (LTA). CKD, however, is not irreversible. This study evaluates the reversibility of kidney disease after LTA based on kidney size. Materials and methods In this single-center retrospective study, we classified 90 patients with LC and severe CKD into 3 groups: the normal kidney (NK)-LTA group (n=39), small kidney (SK)-LTA group (both kidneys Results The NK-LTA group had a lower percentage of hepatocellular carcinoma and a higher pre-liver transplantation (LT) estimated glomerular filtration rate. This group, however, was older, received livers from a higher percentage of deceased donors, and had a higher Child-Pugh score. Renal recovery, defined as the return of creatinine to their baseline, or a persistent change from baseline but not persistent (≥3 months) need for renal replacement therapy after LT, was found in 79% in the NK-LTA group, which was higher than 7.5% in the SK-LTA group. Renal and patient survival was found in 56% of the NK-LTA group, which was higher than 2.5% of the SK-LTA group. Conclusions There is a high percentage of renal recovery in the NK-LTA group, and accordingly, this does not justify SLKT, since this would result in a "waste" of kidneys. Therefore, KT after LT is recommended over SLKT for the LC patients with NK size.

Background/purpose Autophagy is involved in controlling differentiation of various cell types. The present study aimed to investigate the mechanism related to autophagy in regulating odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp cells. Materials and methods Human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) were cultured in differentiation inductive medium (DM) and odontoblastic differentiation and mineralization were evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and Alizarin red S staining, respectively. Tooth cavity preparation was made on the mesial surface of lower first molars in rat. The expression of autophagy-related signal molecules was detected using Western blot analysis and Immunohistochemistry. Results HDPCs cultured in DM showed increased autophagic flux and declined phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), and mTOR. Dentin matrix protein-1 (DMP-1) and dentin sialoprotein (DSP), markers of odontoblastic differentiation, were upregulated and autophagic activation showing increased LC3-II and decreased p62 levels was observed during odontogenic differentiation of HDPCs. However, PI3K blocker 3-methyladenine (3MA), lentiviral shLC3 and Akt activator SC79 attenuated the expression of LC3II as well as DMP-1, ALP activity and mineralization enhanced in HDPCs under DM condition. In addition, 3MA, shLC3 and SC79 recovered the expression of pluripotency factor CD146, Oct4 and Nanog downregulated in DM condition. In rat tooth cavity preparation model, the expression of LC3B and DMP-1 was elevated near odontoblast-dentin layer during reparative dentin formation, whereas 3MA significantly reduced the expression of LC3B and DMP-1. Conclusion These findings indicated autophagy promotes the odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp cells modulating stemness via PI3K/Akt inactivation and the repair of pulp.

As the application of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles increases, the demand for improved charging characteristics of batteries is also increasing. Lithium titanium oxide (Li4Ti5O12, LTO) is a negative electrode material with high rate characteristics, but further improvement in rate characteristics is needed for achieving the quick-charging performance required by electric vehicle markets. In this study, the surface of LTO was coated with a titanium nitride (TiN) layer using urea and an autogenic reactor, and electrochemical performance was improved (initial Coulombic efficiency and the rate capability were improved from 95.6 to 4.4% for pristine LTO to 98.5% and 53.3% for urea-assisted TiN-coated LTO, respectively. We developed a process for commercial production of surface coatings using eco-friendly material to further enhance the charging performance of LTO owing to high electronic conductivity of TiN.

The brain is now recognized as an insulin-sensitive tissue; however, the role of changing insulin concentrations in the peripheral circulation in gene expression in the brain is largely unknown. Here, we performed a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp on 3-month-old male C57BL/6 mice for 3 h. We show that, in comparison with results in saline-infused controls, increases in peripheral insulin within the physiological range regulate expression of a broad network of genes in the brain. Insulin regulates distinct pathways in the hypothalamus (HTM), hippocampus, and nucleus accumbens. Insulin shows its most robust effect in the HTM and regulates multiple genes involved in neurotransmission, including upregulating expression of multiple subunits of GABA-A receptors, Na+ and K+ channels, and SNARE proteins; differentially modulating glutamate receptors; and suppressing multiple neuropeptides. Insulin also strongly modulates metabolic genes in the HTM, suppressing genes in the glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways, while increasing expression of genes regulating pyruvate dehydrogenase and long-chain fatty acyl-CoA and cholesterol biosynthesis, thereby rerouting of carbon substrates from glucose metabolism to lipid metabolism required for the biogenesis of membranes for neuronal and glial function and synaptic remodeling. Furthermore, based on the transcriptional signatures, these changes in gene expression involve neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and endothelial cells. Thus, peripheral insulin acutely and potently regulates expression of a broad network of genes involved in neurotransmission and brain metabolism. Dysregulation of these pathways could have dramatic effects in normal physiology and diabetes.

The generation of tar during biomass gasification is a common phenomenon. Tar is a heavy hydrocarbon material that must be controlled; otherwise, it can damage the gasification process. Thus, the knowledge related to tar composition is crucial for the proper design of the syngas cleaning unit of a gasification process. Several studies have been conducted on tar sampling and analysis by using the cold solvent trapping (CST) method to date. However, these studies have not focused on the specific sampling parameters such as flow rate, total flow for producer gas sampling, and sampling time. Therefore, in this study, biomass gasification was conducted on a lab-scale fixed-bed gasification process using empty fruit bunch (EFB) to assess the effect of different sampling conditions on tar composition and quality. Besides, the applicability of energy conversion from EFB in form of syngas was also assessed in this study. The results showed that gasification efficiencies in this process were similar to typical gasification processes, with cold gas efficiency of about 60% and carbon conversion efficiency of about 50%. Regardless of the sampling conditions, benzene was found to be the main composition of tar generated by EFB gasification with an average concentration of 88 vol.%. Therefore, it is suggested that the syngas cleaning unit should be designed by focusing on benzene control. Moreover, it can be proposed that for reliable tar sampling results, the sampling time should be at least 20 min, the flow rate should be at least 2 L/min, and the total flow should be a minimum of 60L. However, these suggested values are not perfect and can vary depending on site conditions.

The Cd4S6+ and Cd2S2+ clusters in the sodalite cavities were synthesized by reaction of the fully Cd2+-exchanged zeolite Y (Si/Al = 1.56) and 0.1 M Na2S(aq) solution at 294 K for 2 days. The single-crystal structure was determined at 100(1) K by synchrotron X-ray diffraction techniques in the cubic space group Fd $$\overline{3}$$ m. The structure was refined using all intensities to the final error index R1/wR2 = 0.048/0.156 (for Fo > 4σ(Fo)). Approximately 13 Cd2+ and 53 Na+ ions per unit cell were found at two and four crystallographically distinct positions, respectively: two site-Iʹ positions (in the sodalite cavities opposite double 6-rings (D6Rs)) are occupied by 5 and 7.5 Cd2+ ions, respectively, per unit cell. The 0.5 Cd2+ ions per unit cell are at site IIʹ in the sodalite cavity. The 2 Na+ ion is located at the center of the D6R (site I). The 15.5 Na+ ions per unit cell are located at site Iʹ. Site-II position is occupied by 31.5 Na+ ions per unit cell. The remaining 4 Na+ ions per unit cell are located at sites IIIʹ near triple 4-rings in the supercage. Finally, 0.5 and 1.5 S2− ions per unit cell, associated with Cd2+ ions, were found at the center of sodalite cavity and opposite 6-ring in the sodalite cavity, respectively. The 1 S2− ion at the center of the sodalite cavity is coordinated to 4 Cd2+ ions at site Iʹ to give a centered-tetrahedral cationic cluster, Cd4S6+, and the other S2− ion opposite 6-ring in the sodalite cavity bridges between two Cd2+ ions at site Iʹ to give a cationic cluster with a bent arrangement, Cd2S2+, in 6.3% and 18.8% of the sodalite cavities of zeolite Y (Si/Al = 1.56), respectively.

Abnormal adipocyte growth, distinguished by an increase in cell numbers and cellular differentiation, is regarded as a major pathological characteristic of obesity. Thus, inhibition of adipogenic differentiation in adipocytes could prevent obesity. Recently, certain probiotic stains have been reported to regulate lipid metabolism in vitro and/or in vivo. In this backdrop, this study aimed to investigate basic probiotic properties and potential antiobesity characteristics of mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Six lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were prescreened for their cholesterol-lowering activity, antioxidant activity, and survival at low pH and in a solution containing bile salts. These six strains were investigated for antiadipogenic activity by employing 3T3-L1 mouse preadipocytes. 3T3-L1 cells were treated with selected strains during the differentiation process. Lactobacillus johnsonii 3121 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus 86 were found to be more capable of reducing triglyceride and lipid accumulation, as compared to control group, which are fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. These strains also inhibited adipocyte differentiation by downregulating the adipogenic transcription factor in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Taken together, these results indicate that L. johnsonni 3121 and L. rhamnosus 86 could potentially act as probiotic bacteria and prevent fat accumulation by regulating adipogenesis-related markers.

The growing demand for green energy has fueled the exploration of sustainable and eco-friendly energy storage systems. To date, the primary focus has been solely on the enhancement of lithium-ion battery (LIB) technologies. Recently, the increasing demand and uneven distribution of lithium resources have prompted extensive attention toward the development of other advanced battery systems. As a promising alternative to LIBs, potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) have attracted considerable interest over the past years owing to their resource abundance, low cost, and high working voltage. Capitalizing on the significant research and technological advancements of LIBs, KIBs have undergone rapid development, especially the anode component, and diverse synthesis techniques, potassiation chemistry, and energy storage applications have been systematically investigated and proposed. In this review, the necessity of exploring superior anode materials is highlighted, and representative KIB anodes as well as various structural construction approaches are summarized. Furthermore, critical issues, challenges, and perspectives of KIB anodes are meticulously organized and presented. With a strengthened understanding of the associated potassiation chemistry, the composition and microstructural modification of KIB anodes could be significantly improved., State-of-the-art tendency, present critical issues and future opportunities of anode active materials in potassium ion batteries are systematically summarized.

The binding mode to TAP (i.e., the peptide transporter associated with antigen processing) from a viral peptide thus far has been unknown in the field of antiviral immunity, but an interfering mode from a virus-encoded TAP inhibitor has been well documented with respect to blocking the TAP function. In the current study, we predicted the structure of the pig TAP transporter and its inhibition complex by the small viral protein ICP47 of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) encoded by the TAP inhibitor to exploit inhibition of the TAP transporter as the host's immune evasion strategy. We found that the hot spots (residues Leu5, Tyr22, and Leu51) on the ICP47 inhibitor interface tended to prevail over the favored Leu and Tyr, which contributed to significant functional binding at the C-termini recognition principle of the TAP. We further characterized the specificity determinants of the peptide transporter from the pig TAP by the ICP47 inhibitor effects and multidrug TmrAB transporter from the Thermus thermophillus and its immunity regarding its structural homolog of the pig TAP. The specialized structure-function relationship from the pig TAP exporter could provide insight into substrate specificity of the unique immunological properties from the host organism. The TAP disarming capacity from all five viral inhibitors (i.e., the five virus-encoded TAP inhibitors of ICP47, UL49.5, U6, BNLF2a, and CPXV012 proteins) was linked to the infiltration of the TAP functional structure in an unstable conformation and the mounting susceptibility caused by the host's TAP polymorphism. It is anticipated that the functional characterization of the pig TAP transporter based on the pig genomic variants will lead to additional insights into the genotype and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in relation to antiviral resistance and disease susceptibility.

The sensory properties and flavor of sour cream are important factors that influence consumer acceptability. The present study aimed to isolate lactic acid bacteria with excellent diacetyl production ability and to optimize the fermentation conditions for sour cream manufacture. Lactococcus lactis ssp. cremoris was isolated as a lactic acid bacterium derived from raw milk. This strain showed the greatest diacetyl production among other strains and was named LRCC5306. Various culture conditions were optimized to improve the diacetyl production of LRCC5306. The highest diacetyl production was found to be at 105.04±2.06 mg/L, when 0.2% citric acid and 0.001% Fe2+ were added and cultured at 20°C for 15 h. Based on the optimal cultivation conditions, sour cream was manufactured using LRCC5306, with a viable count of 1.04×108 CFU/g and a diacetyl concentration of 106.56±1.53 mg/g. The electronic tongue system was used to compare the sensory properties of the sour cream; the fermented product exhibited sweetness and saltiness which was similar to that of an imported commercial product, but with slightly reduced bitterness and a significantly greater degree of sour taste. Therefore, our study shows that if cream is fermented using the LRCC5306, it is possible to produce sour cream with greatly improved sensory attractiveness, resulting in increased acceptance by consumers. Since this sour cream has a higher viable count of lactic acid bacteria, it is also anticipated that it will have a better probiotic effect.

Mitochondria have emerged as important signaling organelles where intracellular perturbations are integrated and, consequently, intracellular signaling pathways are modulated to execute appropriate...

This study aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory effect of Lactobacillus casei 3260 (LC) alone and LC-fermented Gleditsia sinensis thorn (GST) extract in mouse model of type II collagen induced rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In our previous work, we confirmed the anti-inflammatory effects of LC and GST against LPS-induced inflammation in vitro. In this study, LC and GST were fermented and their effects were assessed in an animal model of RA. Both LC and fermented GST (fGST) treatment reduced mice serum nitrite and total cholesterol and triggered myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. In addition, both LC and fGST reduced inflammation-related serum biomarkers such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and IL-1β. As per the morphological analysis, both LC and fGST protected hind paw joints against RA, and its related mRNA markers improved. Finally, arthritis scores were measured as an indicator of RA of the whole experimental period; the scores suggested that both LC and fGST protect against collagen-induced RA-related inflammation in a mouse model.

A new hybrid non-ribosomal peptide-polyketide antibiotic (serratamid) for phytoprotection was isolated from the ethyl acetate layer of tryptic soy agar culture of the soil bacterium Serratia plymuthica C1 through bioassay-guided fractionation. Its chemical structure was elucidated using instrumental analyses, such as mass and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry. Serratamid showed antibacterial activity against 15 phytopathogenic bacteria, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.244 to 31.25 μg/mL. In vitro, it displayed strong antibacterial activity against Ralstonia solanacearum and four Xanthomonas spp., with MIC values (0.244-0.488 μg/mL) superior to those of streptomycin sulfate, oxolinic acid, and oxytetracycline. Further, serratamid and the ethyl acetate layer of S. plymuthica C1 effectively reduced bacterial wilt caused by R. solanacearum on tomato seedlings and fire blight caused by Erwinia on apple fruits in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that serratamid is a promising candidate as a potent bactericide for controlling bacterial diseases.

This study aimed to apply various ranges of citric acid levels in the mouth and T-cannula to compare the validity with instrumental aspiration measures in patients with tracheostomy. Sixty-one patients underwent the citric acid cough reflex test (CRT) and videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS). Citric acid was delivered via facemask and T-cannula at concentrations of 0.4 mol/L, 0.6 mol/L, and 0.8 mol/L. Further, we recorded the coughing count and presence of ≥ 2 (C2) and ≥ 5 (C5) coughs. CRT via facemask at 0.4 mol/L C2, 0.6 mol/L C5, and 0.8 mol/L C2 and C5 were significantly associated with the presence of tracheal aspiration during VFSS. The sensitivity and specificity were optimized at 0.8 mol/L C2 for mouth inhalation and at 0.8 mol/L C5 for T-cannula inhalation. There was a significant difference in the coughing count during CRT at 0.4 mol/L and 0.8 mol/L via mouth inhalation between patients with or without tracheal aspiration, but not via T-cannula. The AUC for 0.8 mol/L facemask inhalation was 0.701. The optimal cut-off value of coughing count was thrice with 84.62% sensitivity and 50.00% specificity on the ROC curve. Afferent sensory nerve desensitization around and below the tracheostomy site could affect coughing reflex initiation and decrease the sensitivity of detecting aspiration in tracheotomized patients. The citric acid CRT via facemask can reliably detect tracheal aspiration and presence of coughing reflex compared to that via T-cannula in patients with tracheostomy.

Carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) have been widely used in many fields, which has inevitably resulted in the production of large amounts of waste composites. Therefore, the recycling of high-value carbon fibres has become a topic of great interest. Thus, herein we report the development of a method for the decomposition of the cross-linked epoxy (EP) resin of CFRPs by oxidative depolymerization under ambient pressure in the presence of a potassium permanganate (KMnO4) solution. The decomposition mechanism was also examined, and the reaction rate constant was determined to be 2.45 × 10−2 min−1 in a 1 M KMnO4 solution. In addition, the tensile strength of the reclaimed CF was 3.20 GPa, which is 90.65% the value of the virgin CF. These results indicate that our developed method is suitable for the efficient reclamation of high-quality carbon fibres from CFRP scrap.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for heart simulation can be represented as complex anatomical structures, and objective information can be provided. OBJECTIVE: We studied 3D print material to find a material with the same elastic coefficient as pig elastic coefficient. METHODS: Pig heart sample, Agilus sample, Tango sample, TPU sample, and silicone sample were studied. The elastic coefficient of each specimen was measured using an elastic coefficient measuring instrument. The analysis was performed using the average value of ten specimens of the same size. We suggested an equation to find the elastic coefficient of material by the thickness using the elastic coefficient of Agilus, Tango, and silicone. RESULTS: The sample with similar elasticity to the pig sample did not show the same coefficient of elasticity at the same sample size. In Tango, the 0.5 mm high elastic force was about 3 times higher than the pig sample 7 mm elastic force. CONCLUSIONS: The study was conducted using 3D print material and silicone which can reproduce the elasticity of pig heart. However, no material is currently available to reproduce pig heart sample of the same size. However, if the heart is developed considering only elasticity, it can be sufficiently reproduced using the research results.

Carbon configuration is a critical factor in determining the electrical, tribological, and mechanical properties of carbon films. In this work, we synthesized carbon films on a silicate glass by sp...

Sophorolipids (SLs) from Candida batistae has a unique structure that contains ω-hydroxy fatty acids, which can be used as a building block in the polymer and fragrance industries. To improve the production of this industrially important SLs, we optimized the culture medium of C. batistae for the first time. Using an optimized culture medium composed of 50 g/L glucose, 50 g/L rapeseed oil, 5 g/L ammonium nitrate and 5 g/L yeast extract, SLs were produced at a concentration of 24.1 g/L in a flask culture. Sophorolipids production increased by about 19% (28.6 g/L) in a fed-batch fermentation using a 5 L fermentor. Sophorolipids production more increased by about 121% (53.2 g/L), compared with that in a flask culture, in a fed-batch fermentation using a 50 L fermentor, which was about 787% higher than that of the previously reported SLs production (6 g/L). These results indicate that a significant increase in C. batistae-derived SLs production can be achieved by optimization of the culture medium composition and fed-batch fermentation. Finally, we successfully separated and purified the SLs from the culture medium. The improved production of SLs from C. batistae in this study will help facilitate the successful development of applications for the SLs.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 43121 and L. fermentum MF27 on biochemical indices in the serum, cholesterol metabolism in the liver and mucin expression in the gallbladder in lithogenic diet (LD)-induced C57BL/6J mice to determine the preventive effects of lactobacilli on gallstone formation. By the end of 4 wk of the experimental period, mice fed on a LD with high-fat and high-cholesterol exhibited higher levels of total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the serum compared to mice fed on control diet or LD with L. acidophilus ATCC 43121 (LD+P1; p

With the increasing need for maximizing the energy density of energy storage devices, silicon (Si) active material with ultrahigh theoretical capacity has been considered as promising candidate for next-generation anodes in lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, their practical application has always been hindered by suppressed electrochemical properties, which arise from large volume changes and deteriorated electrode architecture during cycling process. Notably, recent developments have demonstrated that silicon active materials incorporated with tough graphite frameworks are very promising electrode candidates for efficient lithium storage devices, taking advantage of the high theoretical capacity of Si and ultrahigh stability of graphite. In this review, the necessity of co-exploitation of silicon and graphite is highlighted, and representative silicon-graphite anodes along with various approaches for composite construction are organized. Moreover, critical issues, challenges, and perspectives of the Si-graphite electrodes are also systematically concluded and presented. With a deep understanding of associated electrochemical processes, the component and structural optimization of Si-graphite anodes could be effectively enhanced.