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This study aimed to elucidate the roles of cilia- and flagella-associated protein 61 (CFAP61) in male infertility and its underlying mechanisms. CFAP61 expression levels in the testicular tissues of male patients with infertility were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemical assay, and western blotting. Moreover, the specific roles of CFAP61 in male infertility were evaluated using cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine, flow cytometry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Here, CFAP61 was expressed at low levels in the testicular tissues of male patients with infertility. Functionally, CFAP61 knockdown reduced the Leydig cell viability and testosterone secretion and enhanced apoptosis. A mechanistic study further revealed that silencing CFAP61 promoted the expression levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) signaling pathway-related proteins (p-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (p-ERK), p–c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), p-P38, and COX-2). In conclusion, CFAP61 knockdown facilitated male infertility by suppressing Leydig cell viability and testosterone secretion and enhanced cell apoptosis by activating the MAPK/COX-2 pathway. Our data suggest CFAP61 as a potential therapeutic target for male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy crisis has arisen as the most pressing concern and top priority for policymakers, with buildings accounting for over 40% of global energy consumption. Currently, single‐function envelopes cannot satisfy energy efficiency for next‐generation buildings. Designing buildings with high mechanical robustness, thermal insulation properties, and more functionalities has attracted worldwide attention. Further optimization based on bioinspired design and material efficiency improvement has been adopted as effective approaches to achieve satisfactory performance. Herein, inspired by the strong and porous cuttlefish bone, a cement aerogel through self‐assembly of calcium aluminum silicate hydrate nanoparticles (C‐A‐S‐H, a major component in cement) in a polymeric solution as a building envelop is developed. The as‐synthesized cement aerogel demonstrates ultrahigh mechanical performance in terms of stiffness (315.65 MPa) and toughness (14.68 MJ m−3). Specifically, the highly porous microstructure with multiscale pores inside the cement aerogel greatly inhibits heat transfer, therefore achieving ultralow thermal conductivity (0.025 W m−1 K−1). Additionally, the inorganic C‐A‐S‐H nanoparticles in cement aerogel form a barrier against fire for good fire retardancy (limit oxygen index, LOI ≈ 46.26%, UL94‐V0). The versatile cement aerogel featuring high mechanical robustness, remarkable thermal insulation, light weight, and fire retardancy is a promising candidate for practical building applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of protein structure and dynamics are usually carried out in dilute buffer solutions, conditions that differ significantly from the crowded environment in the cell. The double electron‐electron resonance (DEER) technique can track proteins' conformations in the cell by providing distance distributions between two attached spin labels. This technique, however, cannot access distances below 1.8 nm. Here, we show that GdIII‐19F Mims electron‐nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) measurements can cover part of this short range. Low temperature solution and in‐cell ENDOR measurements, complemented with room temperature solution and in‐cell GdIII‐19F PRE (paramagnetic relaxation enhancement) NMR measurements, were performed on fluorinated GB1 and ubiquitin (Ub), spin‐labeled with rigid GdIII tags. The proteins were delivered into human cells via electroporation. The solution and in‐cell derived GdIII‐19F distances were essentially identical and lie in the 1–1.5 nm range revealing that both, GB1 and Ub, retained their overall structure in the GdIII and 19F regions in the cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of protein structure and dynamics are usually carried out in dilute buffer solutions, conditions that differ significantly from the crowded environment in the cell. The double electron‐electron resonance (DEER) technique can track proteins' conformations in the cell by providing distance distributions between two attached spin labels. This technique, however, cannot access distances below 1.8 nm. Here, we show that GdIII‐19F Mims electron‐nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) measurements can cover part of this short range. Low temperature solution and in‐cell ENDOR measurements, complemented with room temperature solution and in‐cell GdIII‐19F PRE (paramagnetic relaxation enhancement) NMR measurements, were performed on fluorinated GB1 and ubiquitin (Ub), spin‐labeled with rigid GdIII tags. The proteins were delivered into human cells via electroporation. The solution and in‐cell derived GdIII‐19F distances were essentially identical and lie in the 1–1.5 nm range revealing that both, GB1 and Ub, retained their overall structure in the GdIII and 19F regions in the cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daytime radiative cooling (DRC) materials offer a sustainable approach to thermal management by exploiting net positive heat transfer to deep space. While such materials typically have a white or mirror‐like appearance to maximize solar reflection, extending the palette of available colors is required to promote their real‐world utilization. However, the incorporation of conventional absorption‐based colorants inevitably leads to solar heating, which counteracts any radiative cooling effect. In this work, efficient sub‐ambient DRC (Day: −4 °C, Night: −11 °C) from a vibrant, structurally colored film prepared from naturally derived cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), is instead demonstrated. Arising from the underlying photonic nanostructure, the film selectively reflects visible light resulting in intense, fade‐resistant coloration, while maintaining a low solar absorption (≈3%). Additionally, a high emission within the mid‐infrared atmospheric window (>90%) allows for significant radiative heat loss. By coating such CNC films onto a highly scattering, porous ethylcellulose (EC) base layer, any sunlight that penetrates the CNC layer is backscattered by the EC layer below, achieving broadband solar reflection and vibrant structural color simultaneously. Finally, scalable manufacturing using a commercially relevant roll‐to‐roll process validates the potential to produce such colored radiative cooling materials at a large scale from a low‐cost and sustainable feedstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is a major type of cancer in man worldwide. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and the next‐generation androgen receptor (AR) pathway inhibitors have acquired great success in treating PCa. However, patients treated with ADT or AR targeted therapy are inevitably developing into castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) or becoming drug resistance. The role of mRNA 5‐methylcytosine (m5C) modification in cancers is largely unknown. This study aimed to explore the role of the m5C methyltransferase NSUN2 in Prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: The expression of NSUN2 and its clinicopathological impact were evaluated in PCa cohorts. The effect of NSUN2 on the biological characteristics of PCa cells was investigated on the basis of gain‐offunction and loss‐of‐function analyses. Subcutaneous models further uncovered the role of NSUN2 in tumor growth. Epi‐transcriptome assays with RNA bisulfite sequencing (RNA‐BisSeq) analysis and in vitro enzyme reaction assays were performed to validate the targeted effect of NSUN2 on AR. AR‐binding sites in the NSUN2 promoter were investigated by ChIP and luciferase assays to uncover the interplay between NSUN2 and AR signaling. RIP‐qPCR and EMSA methods were performed to confirm that YBX1 binds to AR m5C sites. Results: NSUN2 is highly expressed in PCa and predicts poor outcome. NSUN2 plays roles as a PCa oncogene both in vitro and in vivo. Depletion of NSUN2 results in decreased expression and activities of AR, including AR‐V7. Mechanistically, NSUN2 posttranscriptionally stabilized AR by cluster m5C modification in a m5CYBX1‐dependent manner. Strikingly, treatment with enzalutamide, an effective AR inhibitor, reduces NSUN2 expression and decreases the m5C modification level in prostate cancer cells. Finally, we found that AR transcriptionally regulates NSUN2. Conclusion: NSUN2 stabilizes AR mRNA through cluster 5‐methylcytosine modification and activates a positive feedback loop to promote prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In‐cell NMR spectroscopy is a powerful tool to investigate protein behavior in physiologically relevant environments. Although proven valuable for disordered proteins, we show that in commonly used 1H‐15N HSQC spectra of globular proteins, interactions with cellular components often broaden resonances beyond detection. This contrasts 19F spectra in mammalian cells, in which signals are readily observed. Using several proteins, we demonstrate that surface charges and interaction with cellular binding partners modulate linewidths and resonance frequencies. Importantly, we establish that 19F paramagnetic relaxation enhancements using stable, rigid Ln(III) chelate pendants, attached via non‐reducible thioether bonds, provide an effective means to obtain accurate distances for assessing protein conformations in the cellular milieu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In‐cell NMR spectroscopy is a powerful tool to investigate protein behavior in physiologically relevant environments. Although proven valuable for disordered proteins, we show that in commonly used 1H‐15N HSQC spectra of globular proteins, interactions with cellular components often broaden resonances beyond detection. This contrasts 19F spectra in mammalian cells, in which signals are readily observed. Using several proteins, we demonstrate that surface charges and interaction with cellular binding partners modulate linewidths and resonance frequencies. Importantly, we establish that 19F paramagnetic relaxation enhancements using stable, rigid Ln(III) chelate pendants, attached via non‐reducible thioether bonds, provide an effective means to obtain accurate distances for assessing protein conformations in the cellular milieu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition in a Mach 6 flared cone boundary layer over a heated wall has been investigated in the Mach 6 wind tunnel at Peking University using visualization, focused laser differential interferometry, infrared imaging, particle image velocimetry (PIV), and direct numerical simulation (DNS). The model's wall-temperature ratio η = T w / T 0 (where T w and T0 are, respectively, the wall temperature and oncoming stream stagnation temperature) can be controlled to vary from 0.66 to 1.77. An ultrafast illumination image system has been used for Rayleigh-scattering visualization and PIV to experimentally capture the dynamics of the transition. Lagrangian flow structures are revealed by both the DNS results and the time-resolved PIV data. The effect of wall temperature on the transition is investigated, and it is found that increasing η initially delays but then promotes the transition to turbulence, with the reversal point being near η ≈ 1. The turbulence onset mechanism over the heated wall for η = 1.50 , where first-mode-induced oblique breakdown dominates, is then investigated, and it is shown that lifting-up three-dimensional (3D) waves appear around the critical layer owing to the nonlinear development of the oblique first mode. Consequently, a downward sweep motion occurs to compensate for the lifting low-speed fluid, with the formation of a warped wave front. High-shear layers are created around the 3D Lagrangian waves and strengthened to cause the formation of a Λ-vortex. In general, this lifting-up 3D wavepacket has been confirmed to play a determining role in hypersonic turbulence production over a heated wall, which is similar to the findings in incompressible boundary layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the linear responses of turbulent mean flow to harmonic forcing in incompressible channel, pipe, and zero-pressure-gradient boundary-layer flows. Employing established universal relations, the mean flow and associated eddy viscosity at R e τ = 8000 are obtained. This research reveals that the most amplified perturbations in all three flows are streamwise uniform, corresponding to streamwise streaks originating from streamwise vortices. With the low-rank nature of the resolvent analysis, the streamwise energy density subject to harmonic forcings in a broad parameter space is examined. The greatest energy amplification occurs near the critical wall-normal location where the turbulent mean velocity matches the wave speed, aligning with Taylor's frozen-turbulence hypothesis. Analysis centered on resolvent modes, where wave speeds match the mean velocity, uncovers that the coherent structures related to these modes are geometrically self-similar. The spanwise dimensions of these structures are proportional to their distance from the wall, thereby providing robust evidence supporting the attached-eddy model. Furthermore, the constructed premultiplied energy spectra based on the linear operator can identify large-scale motions and very-large-scale motions in wall-bounded turbulent flows, suggesting their capacity to be amplified by the mean flow. • Examination of turbulence reveals streamwise uniform amplification in perturbations. • The spectra show outer motions differ for boundary layers versus channel/pipe. • Resolvent modes of wave speeds matching mean velocity unveil self-similar structures. • Energy spectra highlight amplification of large-scale and very-large-scale motions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the shortage of resources and the homogeneity of species severely limit the further application of wood. Polyurethane imitation wood (PUIW) can effectively solve these problems and replace wood in a wide range of high-end furniture and interior decoration applications. However, most of the PUIWs have the defects of low strength, heat resistance, water resistance, and antistatic. Herein, we prepared cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) by treating bamboo powder with pre-hydrolysis in conjunction with a deep eutectic solvent (DES) system, and used them as fillers to reinforce PUIW. To evaluate the effect of CNFs on the physical-chemical properties of PUIW, tests such as FTIR, SEM, AFM, TG, DTG, and universal testing mechanics were conducted. It was demonstrated that the abundant active sites on the surface of CNFs form hydrogen bonds with PUIW to enhance the activity of its chain segments and improve its flexibility. The entanglement between CNFs molecules and the PUIW matrix limited the movement of molecular chains, thereby improving the thermal stability. Furthermore, by regulating the concentration of CNFs in CNFs-PUIW, the enhancement of its compressive, tensile, and flexural properties can be achieved. Therefore, these studies showed that the CNFs can improve the physical-chemical properties of PUIW materials, which indicates great potential in the field of PU-based artificial wood. [Display omitted] • Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were isolated from bamboo powder by pre-hydrolysis in conjunction with the DES system. • CNFs can be used as fillers to reinforce polyurethane imitation wood (PUIW). • CNFs acted as macromolecular cross-linking agents to form tightly cross-linked covalent networks with PUIW. • The compressive, tensile, and flexural properties of CNFs-PUIW can be reinforced by regulating CNFs concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study turbulence production at the end of a second-mode-induced transition in a Mach 6 boundary layer based on both experiments and numerical simulations. By using ultra-fast visualization and particle image velocimetry, we succeed in capturing a soliton-like wave packet that plays a determining role in turbulence production. We reproduce the experiment by direct numerical simulation, revealing that this wave packet arises from the vortical first Mack mode (the counterpart of Tollmien–Schlichting waves in low-speed boundary layers), rather than the rapidly growing dilatational second Mack mode, which triggers a Λ-vortex and consequent turbulent structure. These results reveal the existence of a transition mechanism in hypersonic boundary layers similar to that in low-speed boundary layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the transition in Mach 6 boundary layers over a heated wall by magenta using the Mach 6 wind tunnel at Peking University and using visualization, focused laser differential interferometry, infrared imaging, and numerical simulation. The model's wall-temperature ratio T w / T 0 (where T w and T0 are the wall and total temperature, respectively) can be controlled to vary from 0.66 to 1.77. The results show that increasing T w / T 0 initially delays but then promotes the transition to turbulence with the reversal point near T w / T 0 ≈ 1. In contrast with the cooled-wall condition ( T w / T 0 < 1), for which the second mode is dominant, the first-mode-induced oblique breakdown dominates the transition over the heated wall ( T w / T 0 > 1). Ultrafast visualization and Lagrangian tracking indicate that wave packets play a dominant role in producing turbulence, which is similar to the soliton-like coherent structure detected in low-speed boundary layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) based on van der Waals (vdW) materials possess atomically smooth interfaces with minimal element intermixing. This characteristic ensures that spin polarization is well maintained during transport, leading to the emergence of richer magnetoresistance behaviors. Here, using all 2D vdW MTJs based on magnetic metal Fe3GeTe2 and non-magnetic semiconductor MoSe2, we demonstrate that the magnitude and even sign of the magnetoresistance can be tuned by the applied voltage. The sign inversion of the magnetoresistance is observed in a wide temperature range below the Curie temperature. This tunable magnetoresistance sign may be attributed to the spin polarizations of the tunneling carriers and the band structure of the two ferromagnetic electrodes. Such robust electrical tunability of magnetoresistance extends the functionalities of low-dimensional spintronics and makes it more appealing for next-generation spintronics with all-vdW MTJs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geosynthetic reinforced soil embankment are extensively applied in the construction of high-speed railway and highway in mountainous regions but limited field monitoring is conducted on high and steep cases. Aiming to acquire better understanding, a 33-m-high single-tiered wrapped-facing geogrid reinforced soil embankment with the slope of 1 V:0.5H in China was monitored for 2 years during and after construction. Vertical earth pressure, strain of geogrids, horizontal displacement and settlement per layer were recorded and analysed. The results show that the geogrid tensile strains gradually increased during construction. And they were still developing after completion due to creep and subsequent vehicle surcharge load. The predictions of reinforcement loads by the FHWA methods were much higher than the estimated ones from measured strains. The vertical earth pressures linearly grew during construction and then stabilized fast. The horizontal displacement increases with height and the largest value achieved around the top of the slope two years after the construction is 0.14% the total height approximately. The settlement per layer is larger in the lower and middle portion of the embankment and no obvious change is observed over time. This study hopes to serve as a case reference for design and construction of similar reinforcement projects in the future. • A 33-m-high wrapped-facing geogrid reinforced soil embankment with the slope of 1 V:0.5H was constructed instrumented. • Field monitor lasted from the beginning of the construction to 2 years post construction. • The strain of geogrids, vertical earth pressure, vertical and horizontal displacement were measured and analysed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocellulose-based aerogels have been considered as one of the ideal candidates for CO 2 capture in practical applications owing to their lightweight and porous properties. Additionally, various adsorbents with amine groups have been widely used as effective CO 2 capture and storage strategies. Herein, amino-functionalized aerogels were prepared by sol-gel and freeze-drying methods using two typical nanocelluloses (cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs)) as substrates. In addition, the reaction parameters for grafting and amino functionalization were optimized. The CNC and CNF aerogels could be easily modified by the hydrothermal growth of the amino group, and they exhibited attractive properties in terms of CO 2 adsorption, recyclability, thermal stability, hydrophobicity, and CO 2 /CH 4 mixture separation. The amino-functionalized CNF aerogel exhibited superior performance to the CNC aerogel, which was attributed to the increased cross-linking binding sites for hydrogen bonding in the CNF aerogel. The results of this study indicated that amino-functionalized nanocellulose aerogels can be considered a promising biodegradable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly material for CO 2 capture and removal of CO 2 from CH 4. • Two types of amino-functionalized nanocellulose aerogels (a-NC: a-CNC and a-CNF) were ingeniously synthesized. • A-NC aerogel exhibited remarkable CO 2 adsorption capacity, hydrophobicity, and reusability. • A-NC aerogels showed great potential for CO 2 separation in the CH 4 /CO 2 mixture system. • A-CNF aerogel outperformed a-CNC aerogel in CO 2 adsorption field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the rich binder content and high economic benefits of fine reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) particle, more and more attention has been paid to the effective design of recycled hot-mix asphalt (HMA) incorporating this material. This research explored the effect of design parameters on degree of blending (DoB) and performance of recycled HMAs incorporating fine RAP particles. Six groups of mixes were designed, including one no blending group, four experimental groups, and one full blending group. The different parameters of preheating temperature, compaction effort, asphalt content (AC), and blending duration, were involved in this research. It can be found that the recycled HMAs incorporating fine RAP particles under the traditional design proved to the risks in water stability and low-temperature performance. By rising the preheating temperature, decreasing compaction effort and increasing AC , or extending the blending duration, more RAP binder would be activated and blended with the virgin binder, and the poor rheological performance of recycled HMAs can be restored. The different design parameters have different effects on the performance. Besides, the actual contribution of DoB to performance was quantified. With an increase in DoB by 10%, the tensile strength ratio, shear strength, fracture energy, fracture strength, and abrasion loss percentage of recycled mixes can improve by around 15%∼28%, 0.15–0.34 MPa, 180–1969 J·m2, 0.25–0.34 MPa, and 7–18%, respectively. In addition, design incorporating fine RAP particles generally can bring significant advantages in energy consumption and CO 2 emission. • DoB in recycled HMAs changed with the varied of design parameters. • HMAs with fine RAP particle proved to risk in water stability and thermal cracking. • Actual contribution of DoB to performance of recycled HMAs was quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Instability evolution and nonlinear interactions in a hypersonic boundary layer on the permeable wall are investigated over a flared cone. Permeable material is used here as an ultrasonically absorptive coating. Calculations are performed based on both Floquet theory and parabolized stability equations. Relative to the case of the smooth wall, the second mode grows faster in the linear stage and lasts over a longer distance along the flow direction on the permeable wall. Stability calculations based on the acoustic model show that the permeable wall partially promotes the second mode, which is in good agreement with the experimental measurements. For the smooth wall, the fundamental resonance is much stronger than the subharmonic and detuned resonance. The main part of the energy transfers is below the sonic line. However, the suppression of the near-wall disturbances by the permeable wall changes the spatial distribution of perturbations in the fundamental resonance, which disrupts the phase-locked relationship and prevents the growth of fundamental oblique waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a newly identified aerodynamic cooling mechanism in the onset of hypersonic wall-bounded turbulence. We first experimentally investigated a flared cone with a smooth surface in a Ma 6 wind tunnel using fast-response pressure sensors, Rayleigh scattering flow visualization, and infrared thermography, which confirmed a cooled region (denoted as CS) downstream of a highly heated region (denoted as HS) on the model, as shown by Franko and Lele [J. Fluid Mech. 730, 491–532 (2013)] and Sivasubramanian and Fasel [J. Fluid Mech. 768, 175–218 (2015)]. We then performed calculations based on both linear stability theory and direct numerical simulations to understand this mechanism. We found that the phase difference ϕpθ between the periodic pressure and dilatation waves plays an important role in the interchange between thermal and mechanical energy in a hypersonic wall-bounded flow. Using porous steel to modify the model surface's sound admittance, we experimentally show that it is possible to modify the cosine value of ϕpθ to be negative near the wall and thus reduce the temperature growth. These results can provide insight into the thermal protection design of future hypersonic vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the size of materials, particles, and devices shrinks to nanometer, atomic, or even quantum scale, it is more challenging to characterize their thermal properties reliably. Scanning thermal microscopy (SThM) is an emerging method to obtain local thermal information by controlling and monitoring probe–sample thermal exchange processes. In this review, key experimental and theoretical components of the SThM system are discussed, including thermal probes and experimental methods, heat transfer mechanisms, calibration strategies, thermal exchange resistance, and effective heat transfer coefficients. Additionally, recent applications of SThM to novel materials and devices are reviewed, with emphasis on thermoelectric, biological, phase change, and 2D materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of an alternative permeable material on the hypersonic boundary layer transition are investigated. The new permeable material is shown to be effective in delaying the transition, although the second mode grows faster on the material surface. Experiments are conducted on a flared cone using Rayleigh-scattering flow visualization, fast-response pressure sensors, and infrared thermography. On the permeable wall, the second mode appears earlier and persists over a longer distance along the flow direction. By applying bicoherence analysis, it is determined that the second mode decays more slowly on the permeable wall due to weaker nonlinear interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature measurement using Scanning Thermal Microscopy (SThM) usually involves heat transfer across the mechanical contact and liquid meniscus between the thermometer probe and the sample. Variations in contact conditions due to capillary effects at sample-probe contact and wear and tear of the probe and sample interfere with the accurate determination of the sample surface temperature. This paper presents a method for quantitative temperature sensing using SThM in noncontact mode. In this technique, the thermal probe is scanned above the sample at a distance comparable with the mean free path of ambient gas molecules. A Three-Dimensional Finite Element Model (3DFEM) that includes the details of the heat transfer between the sample and the probe in the diffusive and transition heat conduction regimes was found to accurately simulate the temperature profiles measured using a Wollaston thermal probe setup. In order to simplify the data reduction for the local sample temperature, analytical models were developed for noncontact measurements using Wollaston probes. Two calibration strategies (active calibration and passive calibration) for the sample-probe thermal exchange parameters are presented. Both calibration methods use sample-probe thermal exchange resistance correlations developed using the 3DFEM to accurately capture effects due to sample-probe gap geometry and the thermal exchange radii in the diffusive and transition regimes. The analytical data reduction methods were validated by experiments and 3DFEM simulations using microscale heaters deposited on glass and on dielectric films on silicon substrates. Experimental and predicted temperature profiles were independent of the probe-sample clearance in the range of 100–200 nm, where the sample-probe thermal exchange resistance is practically constant. The difference between the SThM determined and actual average microheater temperature rise was between 0.1% and 0.5% when using active calibration on samples with known thermal properties and between ∼1.6% and 3.5% when using passive calibration, which yields robust sample-probe thermal exchange parameters that can be used also on samples with unknown thermal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel salen based chemosensors have been successfully synthesized. UV–vis absorption, fluorescence emission spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were exploited to investigate their recognition toward various metal ions, including Na + , K + , Mg 2+ , Al 3+ , Zn 2+ , Ag + , Pb 2+ , Co 2+ , Li + , Ba 2+ , Ca 2+ , Cd 2+ , La 3+ , Cu 2+ and Mn 2+ ions. The results indicated that the sensor L1 and L2 exhibited highly selective and sensitive recognition for Zn 2+ ions. The binding stoichiometry ratio of L1-Zn 2+ /L2-Zn 2+ were recognized as 4:1 by the method of Job's plot. Meanwhile, this investigation is confirmed by 1 H NMR. These results indicated that L1 and L2 can be applied as chemosensor for the detection of Zn 2+ ion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Thermal Insulation b Bioinspired cement aerogel with ultralow thermal insulation, enables effective isolation from heavy snow accumulation and ensures optimal indoor thermal comfort. The profound implications of cement aerogel's properties are poised to revolutionize the construction sector by fostering the development of sustainable, energy-efficient structures that can withstand extreme weather conditions. [Extracted from the article]

Understanding, modeling and control of the high-speed wall-bounded transition and turbulence not only receive wide academic interests but also are vitally important for high-speed vehicle design and energy saving because transition and turbulence can induce significant surface drag and heat transfer. The high-speed flows share some fundamental similarities with the incompressible counterparts according to Morkovin’s hypothesis, but there are also significant distinctions resulting from multi-physics coupling with thermodynamics, shocks, high-enthalpy effects, and so on. In this paper, the recent advancements on the physics and modeling of high-speed wall-bounded transitional and turbulent flows are reviewed; most parts are covered by turbulence studies. For integrity of the physical process, we first briefly review the high-speed flow transition, with the main focus on aerodynamic heating mechanisms and passive control strategies for transition delay. Afterward, we summarize recent encouraging findings on turbulent mean flow scaling laws for streamwise velocity and temperature, based on which a series of unique wall models are constructed to improve the simulation accuracy. As one of the foundations for turbulence modeling, the research survey on turbulent structures is also included, with particular focus on the scaling and modeling of energy-containing motions in the logarithmic region of boundary layers. Besides, we review a variety of linear models for predicting wall-bounded turbulence, which have achieved a great success over the last two decades, though turbulence is generally believed to be highly nonlinear. In the end, we conclude the review and outline future works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new metallosalen‐based bifunctional catalysts with Co(III), Cr(III), Fe(III), Mn(III), and Ni(III) were synthesized for the first time, and a detailed study on the mechanism of the copolymerization of CO2 and propylene oxide (PO) was performed. Meanwhile, the impact factors of the reaction conditions (metal cations, temperature, CO2 pressure, and reaction time) on catalytic activity and selectivity were investigated. The results indicated that, with the increase of temperature, both the catalyst efficiency and the molecular weight of the copolymer decrease for all the five complexes. The salen‐Co(III) complex demonstrated higher activity under mild conditions: reaction temperature at 30 °C, copolymerization time of 24 hr, and 2 MPa of CO2 pressure. The DSC curve indicated that the PPC by the salen‐Co(III) complex has the highest Tg of 46.19 °C. DTGA curves demonstrated that there were two thermal degradation peaks: the first is for the ester bond, and the second is for the CC bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel metal-free carbonaceous membrane was fabricated with ZIF-8@CNFs membrane by pyrolysis process. • NCNFs/PMS system demonstrated a remarkable catalytic efficiency for MB removal. • NCNFs membrane remained superior reusability and stability in 5 times recycling by annealing process. • Non-radical pathways are dominant in MB degradation with the NCNFs/PMS system. • NCNFs membrane has a promising serve as a filter in practical organic dye remediation application. N -doped carbon materials have been considered as promising efficient and environment-friendly catalysts for sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs). Herein, we first report a facile strategy to prepare nanoporous N -doped carbon nanofilters (NCNFs) using cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and metal–organic framework (MOF) as the superior metal-free catalytic for SR-AOPs. In this work, CNFs are employed as nanoporous templates and binders to fix ZIF-8 for fabricating ZIF-8@CNF membrane, and the as-prepared membrane was converted into NCNFs by a simple pyrolysis process. To evaluate the catalytic degradation performance of the NCNFs, methylene blue (MB) was chosen as a model contaminant. It is found that the NCNFs demonstrate a remarkable efficiency for MB removal by peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation, and 96 % of MB (10 mg/L) was degraded in 15 min. The catalytic reaction and process including removal and washing are very simple and easy because the nanoporous N -doped carbons are fixed on CNF-derived networks. Furthermore, the reaction parameters including reaction temperature, pH, and catalyst/PMS dosage are also investigated. In addition, a series of radical quenching experiments reveal that non-radical mechanism is responsible for the degradation of MB. Importantly, the NCNFs membrane showed a good reusability by the annealing process and it can serve as a catalytic filter in practical organic dye remediation application. This present work shows that MOF derived metal-free carbon membranes have a promising avenue as catalysts for organic dye degradation and water remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human health is being threatened by the ever-increasing water pollution. Sulfate radical (SO 4 •−)-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) are rapidly being developed and gaining considerable attention due to their high oxidation potential and selectivity as a way to purify water by degrading organic contaminants in it. Among the catalytic materials that can activate the precursor to generate SO 4 •−, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are the most promising heterogeneous catalytic material in SR-AOPs because of their various structure possibilities, large surface area, ordered porous structure, and regular activation sites. Herein, an in-depth overview of MOFs and their derivatives for water purification with SR-AOPs is provided. The latest studies on pristine MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF derivatives (metal oxides, metal–carbon hybrids, and carbon materials) are summarized. The mechanisms of decomposition of pollutants in water via radical and non-radical pathways are also discussed. This review suggests future research directions for water purification through MOF-based SR-AOP. • Sulfate radical (SO 4 •−) is useful for the degradation of organic pollutants in water treatment. • Pristine MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF derivatives are promising catalysts that can activate PS or PMS to generate SO 4 •−. • This review addresses recent advances in MOF-based materials applicable to SR-AOPs, with a focus on studies since 2019. • An in-depth review to the structures, catalytic performance, and operating mechanisms of MOF-based materials is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prospective applications of chitosan-based hydrogels (CBHs), a category of biocompatible and biodegradable materials, in biomedical disciplines such as tissue engineering, wound healing, drug delivery, and biosensing have garnered great interest. The synthesis and characterization processes used to create CBHs play a significant role in determining their characteristics and effectiveness. The qualities of CBHs might be greatly influenced by tailoring the manufacturing method to get certain traits, including porosity, swelling, mechanical strength, and bioactivity. Additionally, characterization methods aid in gaining access to the microstructures and properties of CBHs. Herein, this review provides a comprehensive assessment of the state-of-the-art with a focus on the affiliation between particular properties and domains in biomedicine. Moreover, this review highlights the beneficial properties and wide application of stimuli-responsive CBHs. The main obstacles and prospects for the future of CBH development for biomedical applications are also covered in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate radical (SO 4 •−)-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) have recently attracted much attention due to their potential in degrading organic pollutants. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been reported as effective materials to generate SO 4 •−. However, it is challenging to separate and recover the dispersed MOF particles from the reaction solution when MOFs are used alone. We used cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) as a porous filter template to immobilize Zn-based MOF, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8), and obtained a catalytic composite membrane having peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activating function to produce SO 4 •−. The CNF was effective in holding ZIF-8 nanoparticle and making a durable porous filter. The activated PMS-produced •OH and SO 4 •− radicals from ZIF-8 play an important role in the catalytic reaction. More than 90% of methylene blue and rhodamine B was degraded by ZIF-8/CNFs composite membrane in the PMS environment within 60 min. The ZIF-8/CNFs catalytic filters can be used several times without performance reduction for organic dye degradation. The results show that ZIF-8/CNFs catalytic membrane can be separated from organic pollution system quickly and used for the efficient separation and recovery of MOF particle-based catalytic materials. Therefore, this study provides a new perspective for fabricating the MOFs particles-immobilized catalytic filter by biomass nanocellulose-based materials for water purification. This method can be used for facile fabrication of the cellulose-based porous functional filter and open diverse applications. • A novel catalytic filter is fabricated by loading Zn-MOF onto the cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) membrane. • MOF/CNFs composite membrane presented an excellent catalytic performance for activating PMS to degrade organic pollutants. • The high catalytic performance of the ZIF-8/CNFs membrane is attributed to the synergy of.•OH and SO4 generated by activating PMS. • Zn-MOF/CNFs membrane exhibited a good reusability in recycling test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiCoCrAlYSi coatings were prepared on the surface of nickel-based high-temperature alloys (Inconel 625) by laser cladding (LC) technique, and then the surface was modified by high current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB). The microstructural results indicate that metallurgical defects on the original surface, including micropores and elemental segregations were eliminated, and a remelted layer consisting of high density of cross slips and nanostructures was obtained. High-temperature oxidation resistance at 900 °C, 1000 °C and 1100 °C of the original coatings was investigated. When oxidized at 900 °C for 100 h, the original coating followed the linear growth law, and the TGO was mainly consisted of Al 2 O 3. When oxidized at 1000 °C and 1100 °C for 100 h, the original coating followed the parabola law, and the TGO existed in a double-layer structure. After HCPEB irradiation, a rather stable, continuous, and slow-growing α-Al 2 O 3 was formed on the surface after oxidation for 100 h at 1100 °C. The kinetic curves show that the growth rate of the TGO of the irradiated coatings was reduced by 43.9%, and the thickness was effectively decreased compared with the original sample. Thus, HCPEB technique is proved to be an effective method to improve the service life of laser cladding coatings. [Display omitted] • Microstructures and oxidation behavior of NiCoCrAlYSi laser cladding coating was investigated. • Cladding coatings presented different oxidation rate and growth behavior at different temperatures. • HCPEB technique was used to further improve the microstructures and properties of cladding coating. • Restructured surface promoted the formation of a protective α-Al 2 O 3 layer at 1100 °C. • HCPEB technology is an effective way to improve the high-temperature service life of cladding coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical/physical properties and reliable performance of nanoporous materials are strongly influenced by the particle size and corresponding distribution. Among many types of MOFs, ZIF‐8, is still widely used and many studies have been conducted to control the particle size and uniformity of ZIF‐8 using surfactants and organic solvents. However, the use of surfactants and organic solvents process is expensive and may cause environmental pollution. For the first time, in this paper, a surfactant‐free, size‐controllable, and scalable green synthesis method of ZIF‐8 particles is reported using four reaction parameters (temperature, concentration, pouring time, and reactant ratio) that affect the formation of nuclei and growth of ZIF‐8 crystals. The as‐synthesized ZIF‐8 nanoparticles show great uniformity and controllable particle sizes in the wide range of 147–915 nm. In addition, a 2 L large‐scale synthesis of ZIF‐8 with narrow size distribution is developed by finely tuned particle size in water without any additives. To demonstrate the efficient utilization of nanopores according to the particle size and size distribution, an adsorption test is conducted on the ZIF‐8 nanoparticles. This study will support the synthesis of size‐controlled ZIF‐8 with narrow size distribution and their composites for achieving high performance in the emerging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the influence of drying processes on cellulose nanofiber (CNF) aerogel performance has always been a great challenge. In this study, CNF aerogels were prepared via two different drying techniques. The CNF solution was prepared via existing chemical methods, and the resultant aerogel was fabricated through supercritical CO2 drying and liquid nitrogen freeze-drying techniques. The microstructure, shrinkage, specific surface area, pore volume, density, compression strength, and isothermal desorption curves of CNF aerogel were characterized. The aerogel obtained from the liquid nitrogen freeze-drying method showed a relatively higher shrinkage, higher compression strength, lower specific surface area, higher pore volume, and higher density. The N2 adsorption capacity and pore diameter of the aerogel obtained via the liquid nitrogen freeze-drying method were lower than the aerogel that underwent supercritical CO2 drying. However, the structures of CNF aerogels obtained from these two drying methods were extremely similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Independently controlling electronic and thermal transport in solids is a challenge, because these properties are coupled. Here, we show that disordered nanoporosity in Ca3Co4O9 thin films can decrease the thermal conductivity without significantly hampering electronic transport. Scanning thermal microscopy was used to determine the out-of-plane thermal conductivity and estimate the in-plane values. Nanoporous Ca3Co4O9 films exhibit a thermal conductivity of 0.82 W m−1 K−1, which is nearly twofold lower than that obtained from nonporous Ca3Co4O9 films. Nanoporous Ca3Co4O9 exhibit a room-temperature electrical resistivity of 4 mΩ cm, which is comparable to polycrystalline Ca3Co4O9 and twice that reported for single-crystal Ca3Co4O9. Our results suggest that controlling nanoporosity and their degree of disorder can offer a means of decoupling electrical and thermal properties in materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the main consumables of interior decoration and furniture, decorative paper can be seen everywhere in the indoor space. However, because of its high content of formaldehyde, it has a certain threat to people's health. Therefore, it is necessary to develop and study new formaldehyde-free decorative paper to meet the market demand. In this work, we have obtained formaldehyde-free decorative paper with high CO2 adsorption capacity. Here, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were prepared by hydrolyzing microcrystalline cellulose with sulfuric acid. The N-(2-aminoethyl) (3-amino-propyl) methyldimethoxysilane (AEAPMDS) was grafted onto the CNCs by liquid phase hydrothermal treatment, and the aqueous solution was substituted by tert-butanol to obtain aminated CNCs (AEAPMDS-CNCs). The as-prepared AEAPMDS-CNCs were applied to formaldehyde-free decorative paper by the spin-coating method. The effects of various parameters on the properties of synthetic materials were systematically studied, and the optimum reaction conditions were revealed. Moreover, the surface bond strength and abrasion resistance of modified formaldehyde-free decorative paper were investigated. The experimental results showed that AEAPMDS grafted successfully without destroying the basic morphology of the CNCs. The formaldehyde-free decorative paper coated with AEAPMDS-CNCs had high CO2 adsorption capacity and exhibited excellent performance of veneer to plywood. Therefore, laminating the prepared formaldehyde-free decorative paper onto indoor furniture can achieve the purpose of capturing indoor CO2 and have a highly potential use for the indoor decoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explored the effect of aging and blending duration on the degree of blending (DoB) and performance of recycled HMAs, as well as the actual contribution of DoBs to the performance of recycled HMA. Nine groups were designed, including one group designed as "full blending group"; one group designed as "no blending group"; and seven experimental groups designed as "partial blending groups" under the different combinations of RAP materials and blending durations. The volumetric indicators, DoB, moisture susceptibility, high- and low-temperature performance of each group were assessed. It was found that prolonging the blending duration can effectively restore the performance of recycled HMAs containing RAP with serious aging. With the extension of blending duration by 180s, more RAP binder was activated, and the DoB of blended mixes enhanced by around 5%~30%, resulting in about 2%~16%, 8%~21%, and 7%~15% improved in the tensile strength ratio, shear strength, and fracture energy of recycled HMAs. In addition, the result also showed that about 10% increase in DoBs, corresponding to RAP binder activated by about 0.15% in this research, can contribute to around 1%~25%, 5%~16%, and 3%~24% improve in the water stability, high- and low-temperature performance of recycled HMAs, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explored the effect of aging and blending duration on the degree of blending (DoB) and performance of recycled HMAs, as well as the actual contribution of DoBs to the performance of recycled HMA. Nine groups were designed, including one group designed as "full blending group"; one group designed as "no blending group"; and seven experimental groups designed as "partial blending groups" under the different combinations of RAP materials and blending durations. The volumetric indicators, DoB, moisture susceptibility, high- and low-temperature performance of each group were assessed. It was found that prolonging the blending duration can effectively restore the performance of recycled HMAs containing RAP with serious aging. With the extension of blending duration by 180s, more RAP binder was activated, and the DoB of blended mixes enhanced by around 5%~30%, resulting in about 2%~16%, 8%~21%, and 7%~15% improved in the tensile strength ratio, shear strength, and fracture energy of recycled HMAs. In addition, the result also showed that about 10% increase in DoBs, corresponding to RAP binder activated by about 0.15% in this research, can contribute to around 1%~25%, 5%~16%, and 3%~24% improve in the water stability, high- and low-temperature performance of recycled HMAs, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a porous biomass sustainable material, cellulose aerogel has attracted significant attention due to its unique properties in various applications. However, its mechanical stability and hydrophobicity are huge obstacles hindering practical applications. In this work, nano-lignin quantitative doping cellulose nanofiber aerogel was successfully fabricated via liquid nitrogen freeze drying combing vacuum oven drying. The impact of various parameters (lignin content, temperature, and matrix concentration) on the property of the as-prepared materials was systematically explored, revealing the optimum conditions. The morphology, mechanical properties, internal structure, and thermal degradation of the as-prepared aerogels were characterized by various methods (compression test, contact angle, SEM, BET, DSC, and TGA). Compared with pure cellulose aerogel, the addition of nano-lignin did not significantly change the pore size and specific surface area of the material but could improve its thermal stability. In particular, the enhanced mechanical stable and hydrophobic properties of cellulose aerogel via the quantitative doping of nano-lignin was confirmed. The mechanical compressive strength of 160–13.5 C/L-aerogel is as high as 0.913 MPa, while the contact angle was nearly reaching 90°. Significantly, this study provides a new strategy for constructing a novel cellulose nanofiber aerogel with mechanical stability and hydrophobicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spintronics research has been of emerging interest in the inorganic and organic electronics field, and magnetic materials play an important role in spintronics. Here, the spin valve (SV) devices are reported based on few‐layered van der Waals semiconducting WSe2 or InSe sandwiched between room‐temperature ferromagnet Pt/Co/Ru and exfoliated layered ferromagnetic metal Fe3GeTe2 (FGT). The metallic interface rather than the Schottky barrier is formed despite the semiconducting nature of WSe2 and InSe, which may be originated from the interface hybridization with Pt/Co/Ru and FGT. The magnetoresistance of both devices persists up to the Curie temperature of FGT, and the magnitude of the magnetoresistance does not vary with the applied current, which indicates these devices have stable device performance. The work reveals that easily fabricated Pt/Co/Ru multilayers could be stable 3D perpendicular magnetocrystalline anisotropy (PMA) spin injection electrodes applied in SV devices, facilitated by combining 2D magnets, which is expected to be an attractive candidate for 2D applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Introduced the main implementation methods and the workflow when using machine learning models. • Discussed the classic machine learning algorithms currently applicable for assisting MOFs design. • Introduce the partial applications of different types of machine learning methods in the field of MOFs. • Propose possible suggestions for the integration of future materials science and computer science. Metal-organic framework (MOF) materials have the advantages of high specific surface area, large pore volume and adjustable organizational structure. It has received widespread attention in gas storage, adsorption separation, catalysis and other fields. The quantity of MOFs has shown an explosive growth trend in recent years. In addition, as a branch of artificial intelligence, the powerful adaptability, scalability, and automation of machine learning (ML) provide a powerful tool for comprehensively evaluating the application performance of MOFs in various scenarios. This makes up for the shortcomings of complex, time-consuming and safety hazards in the preparation and design of traditional porous materials. By building models using ML algorithms such as linear regression, random forests, and neural networks, it is able to predict high-performance MOFs with adsorption properties, electrical properties, catalytic properties, mechanical properties, and thermodynamics. It promotes the joint development of ML and MOFs. This review provides an overview of the general implementation methods and processes for ML assisted MOF design, including data collection, feature selection, algorithm design, and evaluation. In addition, a summary of the classic algorithms of ML and their applications in the classification and prediction for MOFs are summarized. In the end, we clarify challenges faced in current research and subsequent development directions and providing impetus for MOFs material design and development in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo as a natural biomaterial with excellent strength and toughness is widely used in construction, furniture, decoration, handicrafts and other fields. However, the internal cracks that lead to the bending-fracture behavior of bamboo during its application are not yet fully understood. Herein, we used micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to investigate the external toughening mechanism of bamboo during bending aiming to broaden the application areas of bamboo. These studies demonstrated that bamboo's outstanding strength and toughness were attributed to the synergistic extrinsic toughening mechanism dominated by fibers. Moreover, the fiber delamination and interfacial debonding affected crack deflection in the surrounding parenchyma and vessels. Additionally, the fiber content was positively correlated with the energy release rate of fiber pullout. When the fiber content was close, the fibers closed to the tension side had a better inhibition effect on the crack propagation. Furthermore, the effects of different microstructure arrangements on crack deflection, crack deflection inside fibers, crack deflection in parenchyma, and the toughening mechanism of fiber pullout were also discussed. Therefore, this work further advances the mechanism strategy for enhancing the flexibility of bamboo, which indicates the great potential in bending applications. [Display omitted] • A synergistic extrinsic toughening mechanism dominated by fibers was proposed. • The parenchyma cell had a more substantial buffer effect than fibers. • The fiber pulled-out energy was positively correlated with fiber content. • The effect of restricting crack propagation of fiber was weakened by vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis as an iron-dependent lipid peroxidation process causes sevely oxidative damage of cell, but lack of highly efficient and recycable antioxidant agents. To this end, cerium doped carbon dots (Ce-doped CDs) with radical scavenging activity were synthesized using a simple microwave-assisted hydrothermal carbonization. The resultant Ce-doped CDs exhibited an ultra-small size of only approximately 2.6 nm, excellent dispersion in water as well as optical performance. Taking advantage of inherent ultra-small size, Ce-doped CDs were endowed with high Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio, which significantly enhanced their radical scavenging activity. Meanwhile, the Ce-doped CDs with superior biocompatibility could enter cells quickly and then localized in the cytoplasm. As we expected, the Ce-doped CDs strongly protected cells from oxidative damage of erastin-mediated ferroptosis. These findings suggest that the as-prepared Ce-doped CDs have the potential to be antioxidant drugs against for ferroptosis-induced oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the fundamental understanding of the bamboo scrimber (BS) pressing process, this study examines the current lab and industrial pressing methods, mat compaction behavior and heat transfer compared to typical wood composites. Mat pressure and compaction ratio follow a polynomial relationship, which indicates only 10% of mat pressure required for hot pressing compared to traditional cold pressing. Typical hot pressing of BS consists of four stages: 1) fast closing to maximum pressure, 2) creep at maximum pressure, 3) stress relaxation at target thickness, and 4) degassing and press opening. Mat pressure and its holding time are critical for manipulating vertical density profile in bamboo scrimber through the mechanisms of thermal softening and viscoelastic creep. The core temperature and gas pressure in densely-packed BS are governed predominantly by heat conduction, similar to plywood rather than oriented strand board. This study provides the fundamental insights which can lead to optimization of the highly complex, energy intensive and lengthy pressing process of bamboo scrimber composites. [Display omitted] • Mat compaction pressure-density relationship characterized for bamboo scrimber pressing. • Thermal and viscoelastic consolidation mechanisms and press type elucidated. • Insights into temperature and gas pressure variations during hot pressing provided. • Development of vertical density profile in bamboo scrimber panels explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Full-thickness wounds severely affect patients' life quality and become challenging problems for clinicians. Stem cells have great prospects in the treatment of wounds. Our previous study confirmed that autologous basal cell suspension could promote wound healing, and epidermal stem cells (ESCs) were detected in the basal cell suspension. Herein, this study aimed to explore the effect of ESCs on full-thickness wounds. Methods: Rat ESCs were isolated and expanded and then were transfected with lentivirus to stably express enhanced green fluorescent protein. The experimental rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: in the ESC group, the rat ESCs were sprayed on the full-thickness wounds of rats; in the control group, phosphate-buffered saline was sprayed the on the wounds. Next, wound healing and neovascularization were evaluated. Colonization, division, and differentiation of ESCs on the wound were analyzed by immunofluorescence. Results: The rat ESCs colonized, divided, and proliferated in the wound. Additionally, rat ESCs around blood vessels differentiated into vascular endothelial cells and formed a lumen-like structure. Compared with the control group, the ESC group showed enhanced angiogenesis and accelerated wound healing. Conclusions: Our study confirmed that rat ESCs are safe and effective for treating full-thickness wounds. Additionally, under certain conditions, ESCs can differentiate into vascular endothelial cells to promote angiogenesis and wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) displays a higher 18F-FDG PET SUVmax than hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, which suggests a greater need for glucose metabolism in CRPC. Targeting glucose metabolism in cancer cells remains attractive for cancer treatment. Glucose transporters (GLUTs) meditate the first and rate-limiting step of glucose metabolism. Here, we investigated the key mediator of glucose transporters and evaluated its therapeutic value in a preclinical model of CRPC. 18F-FDG PET showed a higher SUVmax in CRPC than in hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, and GLUT1 expression positively correlated with SUVmax and was associated with a worse CRPC outcome. GLUT1 inhibition significantly suppressed cell growth, glycolysis and tumor volume in a xenograft model both in CRPC and enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase reporter assay showed that androgen receptor (AR) directly bound to the GLUT1 gene promoter to promote GLUT1 transcription. Combining GLUT1 inhibition and enzalutamide remarkably suppressed proliferation and glycolysis and induced apoptosis in CRPC cells. Our results suggest that GLUT1 is an AR target and displays synergistic effects with enzalutamide. GLUT1 may act as a promising therapeutic target in CRPC and enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different than covalently bonded magnetic multilayer systems, high-quality interfaces without dangling bonds in van der Waals (vdW) junctions of two-dimensional (2D) layered magnetic materials offer opportunities to realize novel functionalities. Here, we report the fabrication of multi-state vertical spin valves without spacer layers by using vdW homo-junctions in which exfoliated Fe 3 GeTe 2 nanoflakes act as ferromagnetic electrodes and/or interlayers. We demonstrate the typical behavior of two-state and three-state magnetoresistance for devices with two and three Fe 3 GeTe 2 nanoflakes, respectively. Distinct from traditional spin valves with sandwich structures, our novel homo-junction-based spin-valve structure allows the straightforward realization of multi-state magnetic devices. Our work demonstrates the possibility of extend multi-state, non-volatile spin information to 2D magnetic homo-junctions, and it emphasizes the utility of vdW interface as a fundamental building block for spintronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomically thin layers of van der Waals (vdW) crystals offer an ideal material platform to realize tunnel field‐effect transistors (TFETs) that exploit the tunneling of charge carriers across the forbidden gap of a vdW heterojunction. This type of device requires a precise energy band alignment of the different layers of the junction to optimize the tunnel current. Among 2D vdW materials, black phosphorus (BP) and indium selenide (InSe) have a Brillouin zone‐centered conduction and valence bands, and a type II band offset, both ideally suited for band‐to‐band tunneling. TFETs based on BP/InSe heterojunctions with diverse electrical transport characteristics are demonstrated: forward rectifying, Zener tunneling, and backward rectifying characteristics are realized in BP/InSe junctions with different thickness of the BP layer or by electrostatic gating of the junction. Electrostatic gating yields a large on/off current ratio of up to 108 and negative differential resistance at low applied voltages (V ≈ 0.2 V). These findings illustrate versatile functionalities of TFETs based on BP and InSe, offering opportunities for applications of these 2D materials beyond the device architectures reported in the current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second harmonic generation (SHG) measurements were performed in the reflection geometry using the femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser at the wavelength of 810 nm for Pb0.35Sr0.65TiO3 films, which were epitaxially deposited on (001) MgO substrates by pulsed laser ablation under different oxygen pressures. We formulated the procedures to measure the ratios of the compensated fractions of both c domains and in-plane domains and the ratios of the components of the nonlinear susceptibility tensor under only a non-normal incidence of the fundamental beam. We applied this technique to characterize the domain microstructures of the Pb0.35Sr0.65TiO3 films at three typical temperatures (78, 150, and 300 K) and found these films to exhibit a larger compensated fraction of c domains. The ratios of the components of the nonlinear susceptibility tensor were calculated to be relatively constant regardless of the temperature and the oxygen pressure. On the other hand, their SHG intensities were found to increase as the oxygen pressure goes lower, which is attributed to the higher density of the oxygen vacancies in the films. These films also exhibit the diffuselike phase transition in a very wide temperature range, which is attributed to the structural inhomogeneity and the nonuniform distribution of Pb2+ and Sr2+ in the Pb0.35Sr0.65TiO3 films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Clear and hydrophobic siloxane coatings were deposited by dual precursor sol–gel process. • Influence of nonreacted solvent residues of precursors was investigated. • The increased of Si-CH 3 group were responsible for improved hydrophobicity. • The elevated curing temperature decreased the oxidation degree of wood surface. A common problem with fast-growing tree species is color instability and short service life after long time outdoor exposure. In this study, a hydrophobic coating was deposited on the surface of China fir via the sol-gel technique and low-temperature dip coating, forming a transparent protective layer and improving its anti-weathering properties. Water contact angle and scanning electron microscopy results show that siloxane coatings improve the water repellency of the wood materials while maintaining the natural esthetic texture of the wood. Chemical alterations of the coated wood indicate that increasing the curing temperature helps promote the efficient condensation between methyltriethoxysilane and silica particles, increasing the proportion of the Si-CH 3 group in the siloxane gel and strengthening the skeleton of coating. Moreover, the accelerated weathering of the wood confirms that silicon compounds as fillers delay the formation and leaching out of degradation products, as well as enhance the anti-weathering performance of siloxane-coated wood. The hydrophobic coating is then proposed for its potential application in the outdoor conservation of wood products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]