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Background: SP gene family, consisting of SP100, SP110, SP140, and SP140L, has been implicated in the initiation and advancement of numerous malignancies. Nevertheless, their clinical significance in glioma remains incompletely understood. Method: Expression levels and prognostic significance of SP family members were evaluated in the TCGA and CGGA datasets. Multifactorial analysis was used to identify SP gene family members that can independently impact the prognosis of glioma patients. A SP140‐based predictive risk model/nomogram was developed in TCGA dataset and validated in CGGA dataset. The model's performance was evaluated through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analyses. Phenotypic associations of SP140 and TRIM22 were examined through CancerSEA and TIMER. The effect of SP140 inhibitor in glioma progress and TRIM22/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was confirmed in U251/U87 glioma cells. Results: The SP family members exhibited elevated expression in gliomas and were negatively correlated with prognosis. SP140 emerged as an independent prognostic factor, and a SP140‐based nomogram/predictive risk model demonstrated high accuracy. SP140 inhibitor, GSK761, lead to the suppression of TRIM22 expression and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. GSK761 also restrain glioma proliferation, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, SP140 and TRIM22 coexpressed in glioma cells with high level of vascular proliferation, TRIM22 is closely associated with the immune cell infiltration. Conclusion: SP140‐based nomogram proved to be a practical tool for predicting the survival of glioma patients. SP140 inhibitor could suppress glioma progress via TRIM22/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein homeostasis is fundamental to the development of tumors. Ribosome-associated quality-control (RQC) is able to add alanine and threonine to the stagnant polypeptide chain C -terminal (CAT-tail) when protein translation is hindered, while Ankyrin repeat and zinc-finger domain-containing-protein 1 (ANKZF1) can counteract the formation of the CAT-tail, preventing the aggregation of polypeptide chains. In particular, ANKZF1 plays an important role in maintaining mitochondrial protein homeostasis by mitochondrial RQC (mitoRQC) after translation stagnation of precursor proteins targeting mitochondria. However, the role of ANKZF1 in glioblastoma is unclear. Therefore, the current study was aimed to investigate the effects of ANKZF1 in glioblastoma cells and a nude mouse glioblastoma xenograft model. Here, we reported that knockdown of ANKZF1 in glioblastoma cells resulted in the accumulation of CAT-tail in mitochondria, leading to the activated mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) and inhibits glioblastoma malignant progression. Excessive CAT-tail sequestered mitochondrial chaperones HSP60, mtHSP70 and proteases LONP1 as well as mitochondrial respiratory chain subunits ND1, Cytb, mtCO2 and ATP6, leading to mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation dysfunction, membrane potential impairment, and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway activation. Our study highlights ANKZF1 as a valuable target for glioblastoma intervention and provides an innovative insight for the treatment of glioblastoma through the regulating of mitochondrial protein homeostasis. • N S-mtGFP triggers UPRmt and enters stressed mitochondria. • ANKZF1 suppression boosts N S-mtGFP-CAT-tail, induces aggregates. • ANKZF1 inhibition hinders the malignant progress of glioblastoma. • ANKZF1 inhibition aggregates respiratory chain proteins in aggresomes. • ANKZF1 inhibition alters mitochondrial dynamics, affecting GBM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Type V linerless vessel can be used to store liquid hydrogen, which is made up of all-composites. But the epoxy resin matrix at this low temperature still has some issues in gas-barrier and mechanical performance. In this work, co-modification by the gas-barrier modifier of montmorillonite (MMT) and the mechanical modifier of polyethylene glycol (PEG) was performed. The experimental data demonstrated that adding 25 wt.% MMT could decrease the permeability coefficient to 0.974 × 10−15 mol/(m·s·Pa), which meets the requirements of hydrogen liner. However, adding MMT resulted in the decrease of mechanical strength at cryogenic temperature. Then, PEG was selected to improve the cryogenic toughening. Adding 10 wt.% PEG could increase the cryogenic tensile strength by 98.12%. In the meantime, it has slightly influence on the gas permeability. Compared with purely MMT modified, the permeability coefficient of samples co-modified by 25 wt.% MMT and 10 wt.% PEG was increased by 3.59%. After this co-modification, the epoxy resin was more qualified for the manufacturing of liquid hydrogen storage. • A new modification route of epoxy resin was proposed. • The modified epoxy resin has better mechanical and hydrogen-barrier properties. • The mechanism of epoxy resin modificated by MMT and PEG was explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of low interlayer strength of 3D plastic powder printing, in this work, magnetized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are added to the epoxy powder of 3D printing, and a 0.3 T magnetic field is introduced on the printed powder box to explore the interfacial enhancement effect of CNTs on the interlayer strength of 3D printing of plastic powder. The results show that the magnetized CNTs are vertically arranged in the interlayer, which greatly improves the interlayer bonding strength of 3D plastic printing. When the content of magnetized CNTs is below 4 wt. %, the interlayer bonding strength of epoxy resin 3D printing increases as the content of CNTs increases; when the content of CNTs was 4 wt. %, the interlayer bonding strength increased to a maximum of 4.5 MPa, 50% higher than the unadded specimen; when the content of CNTs increased to 4–6 wt. %, the interlayer bonding strength of the specimens is between 4.5 MPa and 4.3 MPa, basically unchanged; when the content of CNTs increased to more than 7 wt. %, the interfacial strength decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subsea rigid M-shaped jumpers provide reliable and flexible connections in subsea production systems by using deflection to reduce the impact of internal flow and providing installation tolerances. During their service, the gas-liquid mixed multiphase flow conveyed by the jumpers will cause flow-induced vibration (FIV) and reduce their fatigue life. In this paper, the air-water mixed multiphase flow conveyed by a rigid M-shaped jumper at different mixture velocities (1 m/s to 4 m/s) and volume fraction of water (0.2–0.8) is investigated to analyze the factors affecting the flow patterns and identify the most dangerous regions. Flow patterns in each segment and historical pressure changes are obtained by simulation and experiment. The dynamic response of the jumper excited by FIV is obtained by one-way coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI). The evolution of the air-water two-phase flow pattern from inlet to outlet is visualized and analyzed. In particular, the regularity of Taylor bubble generation in the first ascending segment is discussed. The pressure tends to decrease from inlet to outlet, and a consistent change in pressure difference is observed between simulation and experiment. The elbows are the most notable segments, with the maximum deformation and stress concentration. • The evolution of the flow pattern in a jumper conveys multiphase flow is carried out by experiment and simulation. • The variation of plug flow is studied by the volume fractions in the simulations and photographs in experiments. • The overall deformation of the rigid M-shaped jumper under the influence of FIV is obtained by one-way coupled FSI. • By evaluating the equivalent force distribution along the jumper, the stress concentration is found at the elbow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reduced graphene oxide/titanium dioxide (RGO/TiO2) composite photo catalysts were m-situ prepared by sol-gel method and modified Hummers method. The morphology and structure of photocatalysts were characterized and analyzed. The photocatalytic properties of the composite were studied by methylene blue (MB) as a simulated organic pollutant. The results show that a large amount of TiO2 particles are loaded on the surface of the RGO sheet to form a film with uniform dispersion. In the RGO/TiO2 composite. TiO2 is anatase and RGO still retains some oxygen-containing functional groups. The introduction of RGO causes the red shift of RGO/TiO2 absorption band, and the band width of RGO/ TiO2 is decreased from 3.2 to 3.0 eV. The RGO/TiO2 composite photocatalyst has good photocatalytic degradability and cycle stability. After 30 min of continuous illumination, the highest degradation rate of MB solution can reach 96.9%. After 5 cycles of photocatalytic degradation. RGO/TiO2 still has nearly 90% degradation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites with damping–absorption performance and storage-loss behavior based on carbon nanotubes as a modifier and zinc titanate/room temperature vulcanized silicone rubbers as a matrix were fabricated by a reactive solution mixing process, wet ball milling, and the three-roller milling method. The microstructures, chemical structures, and morphologies of the composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The thermal stabilities were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. The effect of carbon nanotubes on the comprehensive performance of the carbon nanotube/zinc titanate/room temperature vulcanized silicon rubber composites was investigated. It was found that doping with carbon nanotubes can improve the comprehensive performance of the zinc titanate/room temperature vulcanized silicon rubber complex matrix. The best comprehensive properties wered33 = 72 pC/N, storage modulus = 4,100 MPa, loss modulus = 400 MPa, damping coefficient = 0.23, and absorption coefficients = 0.4–0.6 for 4 wt% carbon nanotube/zinc titanate/room temperature vulcanized silicon rubber. In addition, the lattice parameters of zinc titanate were found to be highly dependent on the carbon nanotube content, and the absorption and damping performance of the composites were dependent on the frequency and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

To improve the corrosion resistance of the steel ground grid and its discharge property, in the present work, multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polyurethane (PU) composite coatings were prepared on the steel surface utilizing a novel electrostatic spraying method. The MWCNT/PU composite coatings fabricated via the electrostatic spraying route were found to have the advantage that the CNTs were uniformly dispersed in the matrix. The effect of the morphology and the content of CNTs on the resistivity of the steel ground grid, its corrosion resistance in the soil, and the contact resistance between the coating and the soil, were systematically investigated. When the content of MWCNTs was 6 wt.%, the resistivity of the composite coating reached a low value of 9.2 × 10 −2 Ω m. Moreover, a low coating/soil contact resistance of 10.6 Ω m was obtained in the coating with 6 wt.% MWCNTs, smaller than that (15.4 Ω m) of neat carbon steel. In addition, the corrosion resistance of the MWCNT/PU coated carbon steel ground grid was improved apparently. Its resistance was more than 8 times higher than that of the neat steel. These values met the requirements of ground grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Previous studies indicate that administration of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) protects cortical neurons following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The mechanisms of rhEPO’s neuroprotection are complex and interacting, including anti-apoptosis. Here we aim to demonstrate the role of janus kinase 2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) pathway on the anti-apoptotic effect of rhEPO in Feeney free falling TBI model. Activation of JAK2/STAT3 in pericontusional cortex was analyzed among rats in Sham, TBI, TBI+rhEPO, TBI+rhEPO+AG490 groups (rhEPO: 5000U/kgday; JAK2 inhibitor AG490: 5mg/kgday, intraperitoneal) through Western blotting, electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl expression (Q-PCR, Western blotting) and cell apoptosis (TUNEL) in pericontusional cortex were also detected in each group. As a result, we found that TBI could activate JAK2 and STAT3, and increase cell apoptosis in pericontusional cortex. RhEPO enhanced the expression of p-JAK2 and p-STAT3, up-regulated the mRNA and protein levels of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, followed by increased cell survival. Moreover, AG490 attenuated rhEPO’s neuroprotection by down-regulating rhEPO-induced activation of JAK2/STAT3, and inhibiting Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl. These results suggest the essential role of JAK2/STAT3 pathway on the anti-apoptotic benefit of post-TBI rhEPO treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Conjugated polymers (P1, P1L and P2–P5) constructed by alkynyl-substituted aniline and substituted arene analogs could be synthesized through Pd-catalyzed Sonogashira coupling. The responsive optical properties of poly(2-ethynyl aniline) (P1 and P1L for different molecular weights, P1L with longer chains on average) toward various metal ions (including Ni2+, Ag+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Fe3+, Fe2+, Mn2+, Na+, Ca2+, Pb2+, K+, Cr3+, Al3+, Cd2+, Pt2+, Au3+ and Tl3+) were investigated. Hg2+ exhibited the most pronounced fluorescence response of both P1 and P1L without interference from those coexistent ions due to aniline in the polymer backbone as the metal binding ligand, while other metal ions does not cause obvious change of fluorescence. Compared with P1, P1L exhibits better sensitivity toward Hg2+. Introducing pyridyl, thienyl or phenyl groups into the polymer backbone would weaken the quenching responses to Hg2+ compared with P1. The results indicated P1 and P1L could be used as a selective fluorescence sensor toward Hg2+. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A human hookworm vaccine is being developed to protect children against iron deficiency and anaemia associated with chronic infection with hookworms. Necator americanus aspartic protease-1 (Na -APR-1) and N americanus glutathione S-transferase-1 (Na -GST-1) are components of the blood digestion pathway critical to hookworm survival in the host. Recombinant Na -GST-1 and catalytically inactive Na -APR-1 (Na -APR-1[M74]) adsorbed to Alhydrogel were safe and immunogenic when delivered separately or co-administered to adults in phase 1 trials in non-endemic and endemic areas. We aimed to investigate the safety and immunogenicity of these antigens in healthy children in a hookworm-endemic area. This was a randomised, controlled, observer-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial, conducted in a clinical research centre, in 60 children aged six to ten years in Lambaréné, a hookworm-endemic region of Gabon. Healthy children (determined by clinical examination and safety laboratory testing) were randomised 4:1 to receive co-administered Na -GST-1 on Alhydrogel plus Na -APR-1(M74) on Alhydrogel and glucopyranosyl lipid A in aqueous formulation (GLA-AF), or co-administered ENGERIX-B hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) and saline placebo, injected into the deltoid of each arm. Allocation to vaccine groups was observer-masked. In each vaccine group, children were randomised 1:1 to receive intramuscular injections into each deltoid on two vaccine schedules, one at months 0, 2, and 4 or at months 0, 2, and 6. 10 μg, 30 μg, and 100 μg of each antigen were administered in the first, second, and third cohorts, respectively. The intention-to-treat population was used for safety analyses; while for immunogenicity analyses, the per-protocol population was used (children who received all scheduled vaccinations). The primary outcome was to evaluate the vaccines' safety and reactogenicity in healthy children aged between six and ten years. The secondary outcome was to measure antigen-specific serum IgG antibody levels at pre-vaccination and post-vaccination timepoints by qualified ELISAs. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT02839161 , and is completed. Between Jan 23 and Oct 3, 2017, 137 children were screened, of whom 76 were eligible for this trial. 60 children were recruited, and allocated to either 10 μg of the co-administered antigens (n=8 for each injection schedule), 30 μg (n=8 for each schedule), 100 μg (n=8 for each schedule), or HBV and placebo (n=6 for each schedule) in three sequential cohorts. Co-administration of the vaccines was well tolerated; the most frequent solicited adverse events were mild-to-moderate injection-site pain, observed in up to 12 (75%) of 16 participants per vaccine group, and mild headache (12 [25%] of 48) and fever (11 [23%] of 48). No vaccine-related serious adverse events were observed. Significant anti- Na -APR-1(M74) and anti- Na -GST-1 IgG levels were induced in a dose-dependent manner, with peaks seen 14 days after the third vaccinations, regardless of dose (for Na -APR-1[M74], geometric mean levels [GML]=2295·97 arbitrary units [AU] and 726·89 AU, while for Na -GST-1, GMLs=331·2 AU and 21·4 AU for the month 0, 2, and 6 and month 0, 2, and 4 schedules, respectively). The month 0, 2, and 6 schedule induced significantly higher IgG responses to both antigens (p=0·01 and p=0·04 for Na -APR-1[M74] and Na -GST-1, respectively). Co-administration of recombinant Na -APR-1(M74) and Na -GST-1 to school-aged Gabonese children was well tolerated and induced significant IgG responses. These results justify further evaluation of this antigen combination in proof-of-concept controlled-infection and efficacy studies in hookworm-endemic areas. European Union Seventh Framework Programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel complexes, namely [Cu2(L)2] (1) and [Ni4(L)4] (2, H2L = 1-{3-[(5-bromo-2-hydroxy-benzylidene)-amino]-2-hydroxyphenyl}-ethanone) were synthesized through solvothermal methods at the same condition. The complexes 1 and 2 were characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. 1 is dinuclear copper complex while 2 is a cubane nickel cluster. The L ligand displays two different coordination modes. One is the μ1-L-κ3N1:O1:N2 coordination mode and the other is μ3-L-κ6O1:O2:O2:O2:N1:O3 coordination mode. Magnetic studies reveal that the complex 2 displays dominant antiferromagnetic intracluster interactions between the NiII ions through the μ3 oxide bridges with g = 2.29, J = − 0.939 cm−1, and zJ′ = − 0.333 cm−1. Hirshfeld surface analysis revealed that H···H interaction was the dominant intermolecular interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) is a vital biological process that regulates mitochondrial protein homeostasis and enables glioblastoma cells to cope with mitochondrial oxidative stress in the tumor microenvironment. We previously reported that the binding of mitochondrial stress-70 protein (mtHSP70) to GrpE protein homolog 1 (GrpEL1) is involved in the regulation of the UPRmt. However, the mechanisms regulating their binding remain unclear. Herein, we examined the UPRmt in glioblastoma and explored whether modulating the interaction between mtHSP70 and GrpEL1 affects the UPRmt. Western blot analysis, aggresome staining, and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect the activation of the UPRmt and protein aggregates within mitochondria. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate the impact of different mutations in mtHSP70 on its binding to GrpEL1. Endogenous site-specific mutations were introduced into mtHSP70 in glioblastoma cells using CRISPR/Cas9. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to assess mitochondrial function and glioblastoma progression. The UPRmt was activated in glioblastoma cells in response to oxidative stress. mtHSP70 regulated mitochondrial protein homeostasis by facilitating UPRmt-progress protein import into the mitochondria. Acetylation of mtHSP70 at Lys595/653 enhanced its binding to GrpEL1. Missense mutations at Lys595/653 increased mitochondrial protein aggregates and inhibited glioblastoma progression in vitro and in vivo. We identified an innovative mechanism in glioblastoma progression by which acetylation of mtHSP70 at Lys595/653 influences its interaction with GrpEL1 to regulate the UPRmt. Mutations at Lys595/653 in mtHSP70 could potentially serve as therapeutic targets and prognostic indicators of glioblastoma. [Display omitted] • We revealed the crucial role of mtHSP70/GrpEL1 in the UPRmt of GBM. • We identified acetylated PTM sites influencing mtHSP70/GrpEL1 interaction. • Lys595/653 missense mutation of mtHSP70 inhibited GBM progression via UPRmt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater gliders are winged, autonomous underwater vehicles that are broadly applied in physical and biological oceanography. The position of the wing has an important effect on the movement performance of the underwater glider. In this paper, the dynamic motion of a series of underwater glider models with different longitudinal wing positions are simulated, which provides guidance for the design of underwater gliders. The results show that when the net buoyancy is constant, the wing position affects the gliding angle, but does not affect the relationship between the gliding angle and the gliding speed. In addition, the farther the wing position of the glider is from the buoyancy centre, the longer it takes for the attitude of a glider to change, whether the wing is in front of, or behind, the buoyancy centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryo-compressed hydrogen (CcH 2) storage has significant advantages such as long dormancy, high safety factor, and rapid filling; thus, it is suitable for the energy supply of heavy-duty vehicles. Carbon fiber composites for state-of-the-art linerless type V CcH 2 storage vessels should have both pressure-bearing and hydrogen-barrier properties. However, these properties are difficult to achieve under cryogenic temperatures and high pressures. Resin failure is the main reason behind the degradation of cryogenic properties. In this work, methods to achieve resin toughening and hydrogen-barrier control are reviewed. Comparisons indicate that thermoplastics are more suitable for resin toughening than other materials, and that interlayer films can effectively block hydrogen permeation. Resins with added nanomaterials not only stop the propagation of microcracks but also generate tortuous paths within the composites to inhibit hydrogen permeation. However, the issues of temperature-induced strain and state regulation of nanomaterials must be further addressed. In this study, a resin film modified with toughening agents and nanomaterials was also designed. The film was then placed between carbon fiber plies. Hot-pressing and surface treatment of the resin film were performed to enhance the orientation of the nanomaterials and interlayer adhesion force. The proposed composite may be useful in the manufacture of linerless Type V CcH 2 storage vessels. [Display omitted] • Composites of linerless vessel have pressure-bearing and hydrogen-barrier properties. • Resin failure is the main reason behind the degradation of cryogenic property. • Interlayer films can effectively block hydrogen permeation. • Tortuous nanomaterial paths prevent the crack propagation and hydrogen leakage. • A novel manufacturing process is proposed for Type V CcH 2 vessel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new ionic pentanuclear FeIII cluster, namely, triethylazanium tetrakis(μ2‐5‐amino‐1,2,3,4‐tetrazolido)tetrakis(μ3‐4‐chloro‐2‐{[(1H‐tetrazol‐1‐id‐5‐yl)imino]methyl}phenolato)di‐μ3‐oxido‐pentairon(III) acetonitrile monosolvate monohydrate, (C6H16N)[Fe5(C8H4ClN5O)4(CH2N5)4O2]·CH3CN·H2O, was synthesized using microvial synthesis methods and characterized by elemental analysis, FT–IR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. Magnetic studies reveal that the complex displays dominant antiferromagnetic intracluster interactions between the FeIII ions through the μ3‐oxide bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) are widely recognised as a more physiologically relevant preclinical model than standard cell lines, but are expensive and low throughput, have low engraftment rate and take a long time to develop. Our newly developed conditional reprogramming (CR) technology addresses many PDX drawbacks, but lacks many in vivo factors. Here we determined whether PDXs and CRCs of the same cancer origin maintain the biological fidelity and complement each for translational research and drug development. Four CRC lines were generated from bladder cancer PDXs. Short tandem repeat (STR) analyses revealed that CRCs and their corresponding parental PDXs shared the same STRs, suggesting common cancer origins. CRCs and their corresponding parental PDXs contained the same genetic alterations. Importantly, CRCs retained the same drug sensitivity with the corresponding downstream signalling activity as their corresponding parental PDXs. This suggests that CRCs and PDXs can complement each other, and that CRCs can be used for in vitro fast, high throughput and low cost screening while PDXs can be used for in vivo validation and study of the in vivo factors during translational research and drug development. • Conditional Reprogramming Cells (CRCs) were established from PDX bladder tumors. • CRCs maintained same genetic alterations as those in the original PDX tumors. • CRCs retained the same response to drugs with the corresponding downstream signaling activity as their parental PDXs.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basalt fiber (BF) is deemed a new environmentally friendly and high-performance fiber material due to its high strength, electrical insulation, corrosion resistance and high temperature resistance. Yet, the surface inertness restricts its practical application. In this work, the BF was irradiated and activated by electron beam, followed by in situ growth of SiO2 using a hydrothermal method, then composites with polypropylene (PP) were prepared by microinjection molding. According to the results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), more active sites can be formed after irradiation, thus more SiO2 nanoparticles were generated on the surface of BF. Consequently, the rough surface of modified BF could provide stronger shear force during melt processing and resulted in a higher orientation of the molecular chains, increasing the lamellar thickness and generating more highly ordered β crystals in the composites. I400BF-gSiO2 exhibited the highest content of β crystals with the crystallinity of 53.62% and orientation of β (300) crystal plane of 0.91, which were 8.66% and 0.04 higher than those of the composite with pristine BF. Furthermore, due to the perfection of crystals, increased interfaces and interfacial interlocking between PP molecules and modified BF, I400BF-gSiO2 showed good overall performance, with storage modulus of 8000 MPa at −100 °C, glass transition temperature of 23.03 °C and tensile strength of 62.2 MPa, which was 1900 MPa, 1.23 °C and 29.6 MPa higher than neat PP. Hence, the surface roughing strategy proposed in this work is expected to provide some insight and promote the application of BF reinforced thermoplastic composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe cases of COVID‐19 present hyperinflammatory condition that can be fatal. Little is known about the role of regulatory responses in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. In this study, we evaluated the phenotype of regulatory T cells in the blood (peripheral blood mononuclear cell) and the lungs (broncho‐alveolar) of adult patients with severe COVID‐19 under invasive mechanical ventilation. Our results show important dynamic variation on Treg cells phenotype during COVID‐19 with changes in number and functional parameters from the day of intubation (Day 1 of intensive care unit admission) to Day 7. We observed that compared with surviving patients, non‐survivors presented lower numbers of Treg cells in the blood. In addition, lung Tregs of non‐survivors also displayed higher PD1 and lower FOXP3 expressions suggesting dysfunctional phenotype. Further signs of Treg dysregulation were observed in non‐survivors such as limited production of IL‐10 in the lungs and higher production of IL‐17A in the blood and in the lungs, which were associated with increased PD1 expression. These findings were also associated with lower pulmonary levels of Treg‐stimulating factors like TNF and IL‐2. Tregs in the blood and lungs are profoundly dysfunctional in non‐surviving COVID‐19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recombinant Schistosoma mansoni Tetraspanin-2 formulated on Alhydrogel (Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel) is being developed to prevent intestinal and hepatic disease caused by S. mansoni. The tegumentary Sm-TSP-2 antigen was selected based on its unique recognition by cytophilic antibodies in putatively immune individuals living in areas of ongoing S. mansoni transmission in Brazil, and preclinical studies in which vaccination with Sm-TSP-2 protected mice following infection challenge. Methods: A randomized, observer-blind, controlled, Phase 1b clinical trial was conducted in 60 healthy adults living in a region of Brazil with ongoing S. mansoni transmission. In each cohort of 20 participants, 16 were randomized to receive one of two formulations of Sm-TSP-2 vaccine (adjuvanted with Alhydrogel only, or with Alhydrogel plus the Toll-like receptor-4 agonist, AP 10–701), and 4 to receive Euvax B hepatitis B vaccine. Successively higher doses of antigen (10 μg, 30 μg, and 100 μg) were administered in a dose-escalation fashion, with progression to the next dose cohort being dependent upon evaluation of 7-day safety data after all participants in the preceding cohort had received their first dose of vaccine. Each participant received 3 intramuscular injections of study product at intervals of 2 months and was followed for 12 months after the third vaccination. IgG and IgG subclass antibody responses to Sm-TSP-2 were measured by qualified indirect ELISAs at pre- and post-vaccination time points through the final study visit. Results: Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel administered with or without AP-10-701 was well-tolerated in this population. The most common solicited adverse events were mild injection site tenderness and pain, and mild headache. No vaccine-related serious adverse events or adverse events of special interest were observed. Groups administered Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel with AP 10–701 had higher post-vaccination levels of antigen-specific IgG antibody. A significant dose-response relationship was seen in those administered Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel with AP 10–701. Peak anti-Sm-TSP-2 IgG levels were observed approximately 2 weeks following the third dose, regardless of Sm-TSP-2 formulation. IgG levels fell to low levels by Day 478 in all groups except the 100 μg with AP 10–701 group, in which 50% of subjects (4 of 8) still had IgG levels that were ≥4-fold higher than baseline. IgG subclass levels mirrored those of total IgG, with IgG1 being the predominant subclass response. Conclusions: Vaccination of adults with Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel in an area of ongoing S. mansoni transmission was safe, minimally reactogenic, and elicited significant IgG and IgG subclass responses against the vaccine antigen. These promising results have led to initiation of a Phase 2 clinical trial of this vaccine in an endemic region of Uganda. Trial registration: NCT03110757. Author summary: Infection caused by Schistosoma mansoni is a major neglected tropical disease with significant associated morbidity. New tools, such as vaccines, are needed due to the inadequacy of current control strategies. Tetraspanin-2 of S. mansoni (Sm-TSP-2) is one of the lead vaccine candidates for hepatic/intestinal schistosomiasis. Antibodies induced by this vaccine are postulated to interfere with the development of the tegument of adult S. mansoni worms, thereby impairing their development and survival. We conducted a Phase 1 trial of recombinant Sm-TSP-2 adjuvanted with Alhydrogel in 60 healthy adults living in Brazil. Each participant received three vaccinations every 2 months by intramuscular injection of the vaccine administered with or without an aqueous solution of the Toll-like receptor-4 agonist, Glucopyranosyl Lipid A (AP 10–701). Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel was well tolerated in schistosomiasis-exposed adults; no vaccine-related severe or serious adverse events were observed. Antigen-specific IgG antibodies were induced in a dose-dependent fashion with increasing levels observed after each vaccination. The addition of AP 10–701 to the vaccine resulted in significantly higher antibody responses. Based on these results, the vaccine has been advanced into a Phase 2 clinical trial in an endemic region of Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, aluminium particles were added to epoxy resin to improve its anti-UV aging properties. The prepared composite samples were placed in a UV aging tester for 100 days to accelerate the composite aging. The results showed that the aluminium particles improved the anti-UV aging properties of the epoxy resin effectively. After long-term UV illumination, the tensile and bending strengths of the composite with 6 wt.% aluminium particles were 39.6 MPa and 83.9 MPa, respectively, 59.7% and 57.5% lower, than those of the pure epoxy, and its yellowing value was 8.8, 65% lower than that of pure epoxy resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Necator americanus hemoglobinase, aspartic protease-1 (Na -APR-1), facilitates the ability of adult hookworms to parasitize the intestine of their human hosts. A recombinant version of APR-1 protected laboratory animals against hookworm infection by inducing neutralizing antibodies that block the protein's enzymatic activity and thereby impair blood feeding. A catalytically inactive version of the wild-type hemoglobinase (Na -APR-1(M74)) was expressed by infiltrating Nicotiana benthamiana tobacco plants with an Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain engineered to express the vaccine antigen, which was adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide adjuvant (Alhydrogel). An open-label dose-escalation Phase 1 clinical trial was conducted in 40 healthy, hookworm-naïve adult volunteers in the United States. Participants received 30 or 100 µg of recombinant Na -APR-1(M74) with Alhydrogel or with Alhydrogel co-administered with one of two doses (2.5 or 5.0 µg) of an aqueous formulation of Glucopyranosyl Lipid A (GLA-AF). Intramuscular injections of study vaccine were administered on days 0, 56, and 112. Na -APR-1(M74)/Alhydrogel was well-tolerated; the most frequent adverse events were mild or moderate injection site tenderness and pain, and mild or moderate nausea and headache. No serious adverse events or adverse events of special interest related to vaccination were observed. Significantly higher levels of antigen-specific IgG antibodies were induced in those who received 100 µg Na -APR-1(M74) than those who received 30 µg of antigen. Adding GLA-AF to Na -APR-1(M74)/Alhydrogel resulted in higher levels of IgG against Na -APR-1(M74) in both the 30 and 100 µg Na -APR-1(M74) groups in comparison to the non-GLA formulations at the same antigen dose. Vaccination of hookworm-naïve adults with recombinant Na -APR-1(M74) was well-tolerated, safe, and induced significant IgG responses against the vaccine antigen Na -APR-1(M74). Given these favorable results, clinical trials of this product were initiated in hookworm-endemic areas of Gabon and Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One novel decanuclear copper cluster, {[Cu10(L)8(CH3COO)2(μ3- OH)2]·(DMF)2·(H2O)5} (1, H2L = (E)- 2-(((4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)imino)methyl)-6-methoxyphenol, DMF = N,N'-dimethyl-formamide), were obtained by room temperature micro-bottle reaction. The complex 1 was characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffractometry. 1 is decanuclear copper cluster. The {Cu10O4(N2triazol)8} core displays dominant antiferromagnetic interactions owing to the μ3-OH, and μ2-Ophenoxo bridged binding modes with g = 2.126, J = − 6.81 × 10 - 4 cm−1, and zJ' = − 0.577 cm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Glabridin (Glab) is a bioactive component of licorice that can ameliorate diabetes, but its role in diabetic nephropathy (DN) has seldom been reported. Herein, we explored the effect and underlying mechanism of Glab on DN. Methods: The bioactive component-target network of licorice against DN was by a network pharmacology approach. The protective effect of Glab on the kidney was investigated by a high-fat diet with streptozotocin induced-diabetic rat model. High glucose-induced NRK-52E cells were used for in vitro studies. The effects of Glab on ferroptosis and VEGF/Akt/ERK pathways in DN were investigated in vivo and in vitro using qRT-PCR, WB, and IHC experiments. Results: Bioinformatics analysis constructed a network comprising of 10 bioactive components of licorice and 40 targets for DN. 13 matching targets of Glab were mainly involved in the VEGF signaling pathway. Glab treatment ameliorated general states and reduced FBG, HOMA-β, and HOMA-insulin index of diabetic rats. The renal pathological changes and the impaired renal function (the increased levels of Scr, BUN, UREA, KIM-1, NGAL, and TIMP-1) were also improved by Glab. Moreover, Glab repressed ferroptosis by increasing SOD and GSH activity, and GPX4, SLC7A11, and SLC3A2 expression, and decreasing MDA and iron concentrations, and TFR1 expression, in vivo and in vitro. Mechanically, Glab significantly suppressed VEGF, p-AKT, p-ERK1/2 expression in both diabetic rats and HG-induced NRK-52E cells. Conclusions: This study revealed protective effects of Glab on the kidney of diabetic rats, which might exert by suppressing ferroptosis and the VEGF/Akt/ERK pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Innovative PLGA/PCL@nZ bone grafts designed for controlled degradation rate and promotion of angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling. • ZIF-8 in PLGA/PCL@nZ bone grafts functions as a Lewis acid, facilitating PLGA hydrolysis and enabling precise control over degradation rates. • The PLGA/PCL@nZ bone grafts facilitates angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling through regulation of the calcium signaling pathway. Currently, biodegradable biomaterials are extensively used in bone regeneration. Nevertheless, a significant challenge remains in accurately adjusting their degradation rates to match bone healing stages to achieve bone regeneration. Herein, we present a novel biodegradable bone grafts integrated with zeolite imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanocrystals, fabricated via microinjection molding. Apart from the reinforcing effect derived from the in situ fibrillation of PCL in PLGA, nanoscale ZIF-8 is inspiringly demonstrated to control the PLGA degradation. Both molecular dynamic simulation and experimental results indicate that Zn2+ derived from ZIF-8 nanocrystals acts as a Lewis acid to participate the degradation of PLGA matrix, thus successfully reconciles the contradiction between degradation of matrix and maintenance of reinforcing phase. Moreover, nanometric ZIF-8 modified bone grafts improve the angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling. In vitro , it directly boosts HIF-1α and capillary-like network formation of endothelial cells (ECs), and RUNX2 and OCN expression in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). In vivo , bone grafts with a moderate concentration (0.5 %) of ZIF-8 nanoparticles aid vascularized bone regeneration by tunable biodegradation matching bone healing stages. Further, RNA sequencing shows PLGA/PCL@nZ bone grafts promote angiogenesis-osteogenesis by cooperatively regulating calcium signaling pathway in both ECs and BMSCs. Collectively, this study delineates a groundbreaking bone repair strategy with profound clinical application potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most polymers used in coatings are thermosetting resins because of their good adhension, protective capability, thermal and mechanical properties. Prepolymerization is a common procedure in the application of thermosetting resins, in order to adapt the specific processing condition, processing equipment or to achieve desired performance. However, the effects of prepolymerization on the curing behavior, chemical structure and properties of the resultant resins haven't been systematically studied. Among various thermosetting resins used as coatings, benzoxazine is a relatively new member, but it is being intensively studied due to its good processability, adhesive strength, low water absorption, as well as good anticorrosive property. Hence, in this work, 1,3-benzoxazine, a kind of high-performance thermosetting resin, was used as an example to probe the influence of prepolymerization. The chemical structure variation was characterized, the curing activity and the rheological behavior were investigated, and the thermal, mechanical and dielectric properties of the resultant polymers were also studied. It was found that the content of benzoxazine groups decreased while the molecular weight and the melt viscosity increased with prelonged prepolymerization time, which may release more active phenolic hydroxyls that could promote the curing of benzoxazine, but also caused worse molecular moveability. The glass transition temperature, initial decomposition temperature and char yield of most polymers decreased consequently, with few exceptions. However, the mechanical property was improved, as suggested by higher tensile strength and elongation at break value after prepolymerization. [Display omitted] • 1,3-benzoxazine was used as an example to probe the influence of prepolymerization; • Prepolymerization led to consumption of functional groups, increased molecular weight and higher melt viscosity; • Prepolymerization led to lower crosslinking density; • Prepolymerization led to lower glass transition temperature; • Prepolymerization led to higher mechanical strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical simulations of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) on an elastic foil heaving with constant amplitude in freestream flow are carried out at a low Reynolds number of 20,000. The commercial software STAR-CCM+ is employed to solve the flow field and the large-scale passive deformation of the structure. The results show that introducing a certain degree of flexibility significantly improves the thrust and efficiency of the foil. For each Strouhal number St considered, an optimal flexibility exists for thrust; however, the propulsive efficiency keeps increasing with the increase in flexibility. The visualisation of the vorticity fields elucidates the improvement of the propulsive characteristics by flexibility. Furthermore, the mechanism of thrust generation is discussed by comparing the time-varying thrust coefficient and vortex structure in the wake for both rigid and elastic foils. Finally, in addition to sinusoidal motions, we also consider the effect of non-sinusoidal trajectories defined by flattening parameter S on the propulsive characteristics for both rigid and elastic foils. The non-sinusoidal trajectories defined by S=2 are associated with the maximum thrust, and the highest values of propulsive efficiency are obtained with S=0.5 among the cases considered in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bulbous bow is a typical ship structure. Due to the influence of the bulbous bow, complex flow separation and gas capture phenomena may appear during the water entry of ship-like sections. In this paper, experimental and numerical studies on the water entry of a ship-like section with an obvious bulbous bow are carried out. Two thin plates are installed at both ends of the test model to ensure that the flow field during the impact process is approximately two-dimensional. The free-fall drop test is carried out in the test rig equipped with guide rails. By changing drop heights, impact pressure on the model surface with different initial impact velocities is measured. A numerical model for simulating the water entry of the ship-like section is established by using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method, based on the Navier-Stokes equations. Reasonable time steps and mesh size are determined by convergence analysis. Four different flow models are used in the numerical analysis. It is found that the K-Epsilon turbulence model can present the most reasonable numerical prediction by comparing numerical results with the experimental data. Furthermore, the influence of the bulbous bow on the impact loads is numerically studied by using the validated numerical model. It suggests that the bulbous bow has little effect on the impact force acting on the bow-flared area but, in the position near the bulbous bow, the pressure will be affected by the second slamming and the air cushion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel luminescent Zn(II)-based metal–organic framework with twofold interpenetrating [Zn(DHT)(BPP)]n (GUPT-2) {GUPT = Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology, H2DHT = 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid, and BPP = 1,3-di(4-pyridyl)propane} was successfully synthesized using the solvothermal method, and displayed a double-interleaved 2D framework. GUPT-2 not only revealed excellent stability in water and multiple organic solvents but also retained its structural integrity at pH values in the range of 3–11. According to electronic structure calculations, electronic transitions in GUPT-2 were governed by the ligand-to-ligand charge transfer (LLCT) mechanism. GUPT-2 exhibited significant luminescence and selectively detected Fe3+ and Al3+ ions, with limit of detection (LOD) values of 0.446 and 0.269 μM, respectively. The lower LOD values for Fe3+ and Al3+ of GUPT-2 are excellent compared with those of most of reported MOF-based sensors. It is interesting to note that GUPT-2 revealed a prominent luminescence color change from faint yellow to bright green under UV irradiation at 360 nm, with an enhancement in the detection of Al3+ ions. More importantly, the fluorescence enhancement (turn on) and blue shift effects on Al3+ were obvious even in the presence of other interfering ions. These excellent fluorescence properties make GUPT-2 a rare selective luminescent probe in the detection of Fe3+ and Al3+ ions in pure water systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hookworms cause substantial morbidity in children and women of reproductive age. The control strategy of mass drug administration is suboptimal, hence the need for a vaccine. Necator americanus aspartic protease-1 (Na-APR-1) and N americanus glutathione S-transferase-1 (Na-GST-1) are involved in the digestion and detoxification of haemoglobin in the hookworm digestive tract. In animal models, vaccination against these antigens resulted in protection from challenge infection. Both vaccine candidates were shown to be safe and well tolerated when administered separately to healthy adults. We assessed the safety and immunogenicity of co-administered Na-GST-1 and Na-APR-1 (M74) vaccines in healthy Gabonese adults.Methods: This randomised, controlled, double-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial was done at the Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, in a region of Gabon where N americanus and other helminths are prevalent. Healthy adults aged 18-50 years and living in Lambaréné or the surrounding areas were recruited to the study. Participants were enrolled consecutively into two dose cohorts (30 μg or 100 μg of the experimental vaccines) and randomly assigned in blocks (block size four) to receive three doses of either co-administered Na-GST-1 plus Na-APR-1 (M74; 30 μg or 100 μg of each), adjuvanted with Alhydrogel (aluminium hydroxide gel suspension) together with an aqueous formulation of glucopyranosyl lipid A, or hepatitis B vaccine plus saline (control group). Vaccines were administered intramuscularly on days 0, 28, and 180. The primary endpoint was safety, with immunogenicity a secondary endpoint. The intention-to-treat population was used for safety analyses, whereas for immunogenicity analyses, the per-protocol population was used (participants who received all scheduled vaccinations). Control vaccine recipients for both dose cohorts were combined for the analyses. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02126462.Findings: Between Oct 27, 2014, and Jan 31, 2015, 56 individuals were screened for eligibility, of whom 32 were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of the three study groups (12 each in the 30 μg and 100 μg experimental vaccine groups and eight in the control group). Both study vaccines were well tolerated in both dose groups. The most common adverse events were mild-to-moderate injection-site pain, headache, myalgia, and nausea. No severe or serious adverse events related to the vaccines were recorded. 52 unsolicited vaccine-related adverse events occurred during the study, but there was no difference in frequency between vaccine groups. IgG antibodies were induced to each of the vaccine antigens, with mean IgG levels increasing after each vaccination. Vaccination with 100 μg of each vaccine antigen consistently induced IgG seroconversion (IgG levels above the reactivity threshold). Peak IgG responses were observed 2 weeks after the third vaccine dose for both antigens, with all participants who received the 100 μg doses seroconverting at that timepoint. IgG levels steadily declined until the final study visit 6 months after the third vaccination, although they remained significantly higher than baseline in the 100 μg dose group.Interpretation: Vaccination with recombinant Na-GST-1 and Na-APR-1 (M74) in healthy adults living in N americanus-endemic areas of Gabon was safe and induced IgG to each antigen. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report results of Na-APR-1 (M74) co-administered with Alhydrogel in participants from an N americanus-endemic area. Further clinical development of these vaccines should involve efficacy studies.Funding: European Union Seventh Framework Programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), which has been successfully applied in commercial lithium-ion batteries for portable devices, possesses a theoretical specific capacity of 274 mAh g−1. However, its actual capacity is only half of the theoretical specific capacity, because the charging voltage is restricted below 4.2 V. If a higher charging voltage is applied, an irreversible phase transition of LiCoO2 during delithiation would occur, resulting in severe capacity fading. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the electrochemically driven phase transition of LiCoO2 cathode material to approach its theoretical capacity. In this work, it was observed that LiCoO2 partially degraded to Co3O4 after 150 charging-discharging cycles. From the perspective of crystallography, the conventional cell of LiCoO2 was rebuilt to an orthonormal coordinate, and the transition path from layered LiCoO2 to cubic Co3O4 proposed. The theoretical analysis indicated that the electrochemically driven phase transition from LiCoO2 to Co3O4 underwent several stages. Based on this, an experimental verification was made by doping LiCoO2 with Al, In, Mg, and Zr, respectively. The doped samples theoretically predicted behavior. The findings in this study provide insights into the electrochemically driven phase transition in LiCoO2, and the phase transition can be eliminated to improve the capacity of LiCoO2 to its theoretical value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coatings hold advantages of good toughness, low cost and environmental protection. However, the low water contact angle (WCA), poor wear and corrosion resistance make them unsuitable for application in the superhydrophobic coatings such as antipollution flashover coatings for transmission lines, self-cleaning coatings for outdoor equipment and waterproof textiles. A series of superhydrophobic WPU composites (SHWPUCs) with micro-rough surface structure was prepared by electrostatic spraying nano-SiO2 particles on WPU composites with low surface energy. It showed that as the hydrophobic system content rose the WCAs of the composites first increased and then remained stationary; however, the adhesion and corrosion resistance first increased and then decreased. An appropriate addition of the hydrophobic system content would lead to a dense coating structure, but an excessive addition could increase the interfaces in the coating and then reduce the coating performance. When the mass ratio of the WPU dispersion, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles and modified polydimethylsiloxane was 8:0.3:0.4, 10 g/m2 nano-SiO2 particles were sprayed on the uncured coating surface to construct the SHWPUC with a WCA of 156°. Compared with pure WPU coating, its adhesion and corrosion resistance increased by 12.5% and one order of magnitude, respectively; its wear rate decreased by 88.8%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because flammable organic solvents are emitted during the construction process, oil-based conductive coatings generally result in potential safety problems. A high content of conductive mediums can also weaken the adhesive and protective abilities of existing conductive coatings. Therefore, an anticorrosive and conductive coating was prepared on Q235 steel substrate by spraying the multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) dispersion with a low MWCNT content in this work. The effect of the MWCNT content on the electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and adhesive strength of the WPU conductive coating was investigated. It was concluded that a spatial network structure of MWCNTs-WPU was formed to make the coating structure more compact. The electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and adhesive strength of the WPU conductive coating first increased and then decreased as the MWCNT content increased. When the MWCNT content was only 0.2 wt % (which was far lower than that of the existing conductive coatings at 1 wt %), the coating began to conduct electricity; its resistivity was 12,675.0 Ω·m. The best combination property was the 0.3 wt % MWCNTs/WPU conductive coating. Its adhesive strength was 19.99% higher than that of pure WPU coating. Its corrosion rate was about one order of magnitude lower than that of pure WPU coating after being immersed in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution for 17 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A thicker layer of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) anticorrosive and conductive coating was respectively prepared on the Q235 steel substrate by brushing (Br) and electrostatic spraying (ES) in this work. The effect of coating process on the dispersion of the MWCNTs and the electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and bond strength of the coating was investigated. It was shown that the coating prepared by ES (ES coating) had a smooth surface, few defects and evenly dispersed MWCNTs. The coating prepared by Br (Br coating) had a rough surface, some defects and obviously agglomerated MWCNTs. The electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, and bond strength of the ES coating were higher than those of the Br coating with the same MWCNT content. As the MWCNT content increased, the electrical conductivity of the ES coating increased, however, its corrosion resistance and bond strength first increased and then decreased. The resistivity of ES 0.3 wt% MWCNTs/WPU coating (12808.4 Ω·m) met the standard requirement of the conductive coating. Its corrosion rate was 3.50×10-5 mm/a immersed in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. Its bond strength to the Q235 steel substrate was higher than that of ES pure WPU coating. As the MWCNT content increased, the electrical conductivity of the Br coating increased, however, its corrosion resistance and bond strength decreased. When the MWCNT content was 0.6 wt%, the Br coating would conduct electricity. Its corrosion rate was 5.24×10-2 mm/a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of neutralizing antibodies in Zika-induced Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has not yet been investigated. We conducted a case-control study using sera from the 2016 Zika epidemic in Colombia to determine the neutralizing antibody activity against Zika virus (ZIKV) and dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV2). We observed increased neutralizing antibody titers against DENV2 in ZIKV-infected individuals compared with uninfected controls and higher titers to both ZIKV and DENV2 in ZIKV-infected patients diagnosed with GBS compared with non-GBS ZIKV-infected controls. These data suggest that high neutralizing antibody titers to DENV and to ZIKV are associated with GBS during ZIKV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the compressively deformed AgInCd alloy during annealing treatment have been investigated in the present study. In the deformed AgInCd alloy, many deformation markings are formed and these deformation markings are mainly composed of nanoscale deformation twins. The AgInCd alloy exhibits a significant work hardening capability because of the formation of deformation twins. The recrystallization temperature of the deformed AgInCd alloy is between 300 °C and 350 °C. In the AgInCd alloy annealed at 300 °C, the deformation twins are eliminated and a large number of dark strips consisting of stacking faults are presented in the un-recrystallized regions, indicating that the deformation twins are transformed into stacking faults by the detwinning mechanism. The annealing twins show higher thermal stability than the deformation twins. The strength and microhardness of the deformed AgInCd alloy gradually decrease with the increase of annealing temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compressive deformation mechanisms of a coarse-grained AgInCd alloy have been investigated in the present study. When compressive strain is not higher than 30%, the deformation mechanisms transform from full dislocation slip and multiplication into the two coefficient mechanisms of full dislocation slip and partial dislocation emission with increasing compressive strain. When compressive strain reaches 50%, the dominant deformation mechanisms convert into deformation twinning. With further increasing strain, the dislocation densities decrease and the twin thicknesses reduce in the nano-twinned grains. Twin boundary possesses a weaker strengthening effect comparing with grain boundary for the AgInCd alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is considered a potential alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics due to its biodegradable and biocompatible nature. However, the poor UV shielding ability of PLA limits its application in the packaging field. In this work, to improve the UV shielding performance of PLA, without weakening its biomass nature, Glycidyl POSS modified bamboo powder (POSS-BP) is prepared as a new UV shielding agent. The study demonstrates that when POSS-BP is 7 wt%, POSS-BP/PLA composite can block 76.42% UVA and 86.44% UVB, and still maintain high visible light transmittance. In addition, the introduction of POSS-BP can significantly improve the crystallization properties of PLA. The dynamic rheological results also indicate that POSS-BP reduced the complex viscosity and improved the processing performance of PLA composites. In summary, this work provides a new strategy for the preparation of biodegradable UV shielding composites, which is expected to expand the application of PLA in the packaging field. [Display omitted] • POSS modified bamboo powder (POSS-BP) is prepared as a new UV shielding agent. • Polylactic acid (PLA) polymer and POSS-BP based UV-resistant materials. • POSS-BP significantly enhanced the UV shielding performance of PLA composite. • POSS-BP improved the crystallization and processiability of PLA composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for nucleic acid and protein derivatives from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue has greatly increased due to advances in extraction and purification methods, making these derivatives available for numerous genomic and proteomic platforms. Previously, DNA, RNA, microRNA (miRNA), or protein derived from FFPE tissue blocks were considered “unfit” for such platforms, as the process of tissue immobilization by FFPE resulted in cross-linked, fragmented, and chemically modified macromolecules. We conducted a systematic examination of nucleic acids and proteins co-extracted from 118 FFPE blocks sampled from the AIDS and Cancer Specimen Resource (ACSR) at The George Washington University after stratification by storage duration and the three most common tumor tissue types at the ACSR (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and papillary carcinoma). DNA, RNA, miRNA, and protein could be co-extracted from 98% of the FFPE blocks sampled, with DNA and miRNA “fit” for diverse genomic purposes including sequencing. While RNA was the most labile of the FFPE derivatives, especially when assessed by RNA integrity number (RIN), it was still “fit” for genomic methods that use smaller sequence lengths, e.g., quantitative PCR. While more than half of the protein derivatives were fit for proteomic purposes, our analyses indicated a significant interaction effect on the absorbance values for proteins derived from FFPE, implying that storage duration may affect protein derivatives differently by tumor tissue type. The mean absorbance value for proteins derived from more recently stored FFPE was greater than protein derived from older FFPE, with the exception of adenocarcinoma tissue. Finally, the fitness of one type of derivative was weakly associated with the fitness of derivatives co-extracted from the same FFPE block. The current study used several novel quality assurance approaches and metrics to show that archival FFPE tissue blocks are a valuable resource for contemporary genomic and proteomic platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Necator americanus Glutathione-S-Transferase-1 (Na-GST-1) plays a role in the digestion of host hemoglobin by adult N. americanus hookworms. Vaccination of laboratory animals with recombinant Na-GST-1 is associated with significant protection from challenge infection. Recombinant Na-GST-1 was expressed in Pichia pastoris and adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide adjuvant (Alhydrogel) according to current Good Manufacturing Practice. Two Phase 1 trials were conducted in 142 healthy adult volunteers in the United States and Brazil, first in hookworm-naïve individuals and then in residents of a N. americanus endemic area in Brazil. Volunteers received one of three doses of recombinant Na-GST-1 (10, 30, or 100 μg) adjuvanted with Alhydrogel, adjuvanted with Alhydrogel and co-administered with an aqueous formulation of Glucopyranosyl Lipid A (GLA-AF), or the hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccinations were administered via intramuscular injection on days 0, 56, and 112. Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel was well tolerated in both hookworm-naïve and hookworm-exposed adults, with the most common adverse events being mild to moderate injection site pain and tenderness, and mild headache and nausea; no vaccine-related severe or serious adverse events were observed. Antigen-specific IgG antibodies were induced in a dose-dependent fashion, with increasing levels observed after each vaccination in both trials. The addition of GLA-AF to Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel did not result in significant increases in specific IgG responses. In both the US and Brazil studies, the predominant IgG subclass induced against Na-GST-1 was IgG1, with lesser amounts of IgG3. Vaccination of both hookworm-naïve and hookworm-exposed adults with recombinant Na-GST-1 was safe, well tolerated, and resulted in significant antigen-specific IgG responses. Based on these results, this vaccine will be advanced into clinical trials in children and eventual efficacy studies. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ( for the Brazil trial and for the US trial) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new generation of vaccines for the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) have now advanced into clinical development, with the Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel Hookworm Vaccine already being tested in Phase 1 studies in healthy adults. The current manuscript focuses on the often overlooked critical aspects of NTD vaccine product development, more specifically, vaccine stability testing programs. A key measure of vaccine stability testing is "relative potency" or the immunogenicity of the vaccine during storage. As with most NTD vaccines, the Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel Hookworm Vaccine was not developed by attenuation or inactivation of the pathogen (Necator americanus), so conventional methods for measuring relative potency are not relevant for this investigational product. Herein, we describe a novel relative potency testing program and report for the first time on the clinical lot of this NTD vaccine during its first 60 months of storage at 2–8°C. We also describe the development of a complementary functional assay that measures the ability of IgG from animals or humans immunized with Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel to neutralize this important hookworm enzyme. While 90% inhibition of the catalytic activity of Na-GST-1 was achieved in animals immunized with Na-GST-1/Alhydrogel, lower levels of inhibition were observed in immunized humans. Moreover, anti-Na-GST-1 antibodies from volunteers in non-hookworm endemic areas were better able to inhibit catalytic activity than anti-Na-GST-1 antibodies from volunteers resident in hookworm endemic areas. The results described herein provide the critical tools for the product development of NTD vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric contacts were inserted into a carbon fiber epoxy resin composite to research the relationship between water absorption and resistance, which allowed the diagnosis of composite water absorption in a nondestructive way. The results show that the carbon fiber in the composite form does not absorb water from the environment, and its resistance remained unchanged when immersed in water. However, the resistance of the composite increased after water was absorbed along the fiber until the specimen reached saturation, which resulted in a sudden increase in resistance. The transverse resistance changed logarithmically in relation to water absorption. The data fitting equation is y = 2.03 × lg(x)−6.26 (R2 = 0.98), where x is the transverse resistance after water absorption (Ω), and y is the weight gain rate after water absorption (%). According to this equation, the weight gain rate of the composite can be calculated from the transverse resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The present study is to investigate the effect of cornuside on mast cell-mediated allergic response, as well as its possible mechanisms of action. Methods To test the anti-allergic effects of cornuside in vivo , local extravasation was induced by local injection of anti-dinitrophenyl immunoglobulin E (IgE) followed by intravenous antigenic challenge in passive cutaneous anaphylaxis model rats. Mast cell viability was determined using MTT assay. Histamine content from rat peritoneal mast cells was measured by the radioenzymatic method. To investigate the mechanisms by which cornuside affects the reduction of histamine release, the levels of calcium uptake were measured. To examine whether cornuside affects the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, Western blotting and ELISA were carried out. Results Oral administration of cornuside inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats. Presence of cornuside attenuated IgE-induced histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells. The inhibitory effect of cornuside on histamine release was mediated by the modulation of intracellular calcium. In addition, cornuside decreased phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated production and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 in human mast cells. The inhibitory effect of cornuside on pro-inflammatory cytokines was dependent on nuclear factor-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Conclusions The present study provides evidence that cornuside inhibits mast cell-derived inflammatory allergic reactions by blocking histamine release and pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro anti-allergic effects of cornuside suggest a possible therapeutic application of this agent in inflammatory allergic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To research effect of raw materials TiO 2 with the phase structures on the crystal structure, microstructure and electrical properties of lead-free (Ba 0.85 Ca 0.15 )(Ti 0.90 Zr 0.10 )O 3 (BCZT) ceramics, BCZT ceramics using either anatase or rutile as Ti source were synthesized by solid-state reaction. Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) with anatase/rutile phase structures had interesting influence on the crystal structure, microstructure and the sintering temperature by the X-ray diffraction and SEM, which also played an important role in improved electrical properties. The BCZT ceramics with rutile titanium dioxide demonstrated optimal piezoelectric and dielectric properties: d 33 = 590 pC/N, k p = 0.46, ε r = 2810, tan δ = 0.014 and T c = 91 °C, which was obviously superior to BCZT ceramics with anatase titanium dioxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an unoxidized aluminum particle/epoxy composite coating was prepared onto the surface of the pure epoxy resin to reduce its water absorption and improve its mechanical property and low energy surface impact resistance. Unoxidized aluminum particles were prepared using arc spraying under the protection of nitrogen. The diffusion coefficient of sample began to decrease and then increased with increasing the content of aluminum particles in the composite coating. The minimum value was 2.7 × 10 −8 m 2 /s at a critical concentration of 6% of aluminum particles, 38% lower than that of pure epoxy resin. The sample with 6% aluminum particles had the maximum tensile and bending strengths of 38.9 MPa and 94.6 MPa, respectively. Aluminum particles could effectively reduce the impact of the epoxy resin suffered. The direction of the impact was changed, and avoids the micro-crack to extend unidirectionally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achieving good alignment of fillers within the composites is critical towards developing the high performance of the final 3D printed objects. Herein, flow-induced the alignment of self-assembling β-nucleating agent (SANA β) within the isotactic polypropylene (iPP) matrix was achieved via fused deposition modeling (FDM) process. The influence of printing speed on the alignment of SANA β , crystalline structure, and mechanical properties of FDM printed samples were investigated. Due to the converging nozzle effect, SANA β fibers were fragmented from 26.13 μm to 9.98 μm in length, generating more oriented templates and further preferentially aligned along the printing direction to trigger the iPP crystallization. As a result, the crystal morphology of the printed sample was transformed from α-form to β-form hybrid shish-kebab structure. Highly oriented β-crystal was observed in iPP/SANA β (FT) samples, as evidenced by 2D-WAXD. 2D-SAXS results revealed the formation of plenty of oriented lamellae in FT samples, which were arranged perpendicular and parallel to the printing direction. The aligned SANA β also contributed to maintaining a high β-crystal content to overcome the shortcomings of rapid decrease of β-crystal for iPP at a high printing speed. Benefiting from this, with the increasing printing speed, compared with elongation at break of iPP samples decreased from 241.36% to 61.32%, those of FT sample increased dramatically from 305.07% to 390.23% but with a slight fade of less than 1% in the tensile strength. Additionally, the as-printed honeycomb array structure of FT sample presented superior energy absorption capacity and thus could function as loading-bear objects, highlighting the advantages of the alignment of self-reinforcing β-form hybrid shish-kebab. Due to the alignment of β-nucleating agent induced by the FDM process, β-form shish-kebab crystals were formed in the printed parts with superior energy absorption capacity but without sacrificing tensile strength. [Display omitted] • Self-assembling β-nucleating agent (SANA β) was fragmented from 26.13 to 9.98 μm in length during FDM process. • More SANA β were generated, aligned, and functioned as oriented templates to trigger the iPP crystallization. • β-form hybrid shish-kebab crystals were formed, where SANA β was acted as the "shish" and β-lamellae was acted as the "kebab". • The aligned SANA β contributed to maintaining a high β-crystal content even at a high printing speed. • The resultant samples presented superior energy absorption capacity without sacrificing tensile strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The slamming phenomenon of the cross deck is a key problem in the structural design of trimaran. However, there is still a lack of sufficient experimental data to reveal the slamming load characteristics of the cross deck in different situations, especially the situation when the cross deck suffers water impact and the bottom of main hull does not come out of the water. In this paper, two models with different main hull shapes are designed to investigate slamming loads of different slamming scenario. One model has the main hull which is similar to the original trimaran section, and the other model has a lengthened main hull to avoid the obvious separated jet from the bottom of main hull. The free-fall drop tests of the two models were conducted, and the test system shows good stability. By comparatively investigating the flow field and the impact pressure of the two models during the water entry, it is found that the cross deck slamming pressure coefficient of the model with the original main hull is obviously smaller than that with the lengthened main hull due to the disturbance of bottom slamming on the flow field. The cross deck slamming loads which is corresponding to different situations whether the bottom of the main hull comes out of water or not, were experimentally investigated. A new trimaran section model with lengthened main hull was designed. The flow field and the impact pressure of the two models during the water entry were comparatively investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction of unsymmetrical alkynes with 1 equiv. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Leptin is an important hormone for the regulation of food intake, energy expenditure and reproduction in mammals, but information regarding its role in teleosts remains scant. In the present study, the gene structures of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) leptins were characterized. Recombinant grass carp leptin (rgc-LEP) was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified, and identified by mass spectrometric analysis. A strong anorexic effect on food intake was observed in grass carp on the first day after intraperitoneal (IP) injection of rgc-LEP, but not during the following days. Body weight of the leptin group (LEP group) and the pair-fed group (PF group) showed no difference throughout the experimental period. The acute and chronic effects on the expression of key genes correlating to food intake, energy expenditure, lipid metabolism and digestion were further characterized by real-time PCR. Accordingly, the mRNA levels of neuropeptide Y (NPY), Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) were significantly reduced whereas the mRNA levels of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), bile salt-activated lipase (BSAL) and fatty acid elongase (ELO) were significantly elevated on the first day after injection. No effect on the expression of these genes (except LPL) was observed on day 13. In contrast to the down-regulation by exogenous leptin in mammals, the mRNA level of grass carp leptin was elevated 5.76-fold on the first day after rgc-LEP treatment. Our results suggest that leptin has an acute effect on the regulation of food intake, energy expenditure and lipid metabolism in grass carp, but the effect can be rapidly counteracted through mechanisms that are currently unknown. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Pollen analysis was carried out on samples of surface sediments from various plant communities of mangrove systems in Yingluo Bay, Guangxi to examine the relationships between vegetation and present-day pollen. High percentages of mangrove types can be indicators of the mangrove vegetation in general, although some terrestrial pollen occur. The exact present-day pollen assemblages can define plant community boundaries on a fine scale, which greatly increases the accuracy in the reconstruction of past environments and sea levels. Several interacting factors determine the degree to which each plant community is reflected by the pollen assemblages. After drawing the scatter diagram and using correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and detrended correspondence analysis, we summarize two groups impacting on pollen abundance. One includes the parameters of plants, in which plant cover is significantly associated with pollen percentages for Rhizophora stylosa and Kandelia candel, plant percentage plays an important role in pollen abundance for Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Excoecaria agallocha, and tree breast diameter is for Avicennia marina by controlling plant percentage. The other group focuses mainly on the environmental conditions, of which soil types and salinity factors are displayed by the first axis of DCA (altitude); water table depth is shown by the second axis; and tidal hydrodynamics is indicated by the third axis according to the separated samples associated with the communities in each sampling square. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]