To improve the processability and mechanical properties of the selective laser melting(SLM)low Sc content Al−Mg−Sc−Zr alloy,Mn was used to partially replace Mg.The processability,microstructure,and mechanical properti...To improve the processability and mechanical properties of the selective laser melting(SLM)low Sc content Al−Mg−Sc−Zr alloy,Mn was used to partially replace Mg.The processability,microstructure,and mechanical properties of the SLM-fabricated Al−Mg−Mn−Sc−Zr alloy were systematically investigated by density measurement,microstructure characterization,and tensile testing.The results revealed that dense samples could be obtained by adjusting the SLM process parameters.The alloy exhibited a fine equiaxed-columnar bimodal grain microstructure.The presence of primary Al3Sc andα-Al(Mn,Fe)Si particles contributed to the grain refinement of the alloy with an average grain size of 4.63μm.Upon aging treatment at 350°C for 2 h,the strength and elongation of the alloy were simultaneously improved due to the precipitation of Al3Sc nanoparticles and the formation of the 9R phase.This study demonstrates that the strength−plasticity trade-off of the aluminum alloy can be overcome by utilizing SLM technology and subsequent post-heat treatment to induce the formation of the long-period stacked ordered phase.展开更多
Magnesium(Mg)alloys are widely used for temporary bone implants due to their favorable biodegradability,cytocompatibility,hemocompatibility,and close mechanical properties to bone.However,rapid degradation and inadequ...Magnesium(Mg)alloys are widely used for temporary bone implants due to their favorable biodegradability,cytocompatibility,hemocompatibility,and close mechanical properties to bone.However,rapid degradation and inadequate strength limit their applicability.To overcome this,the direct current magnetron sputtering technique is employed for surface coating in Mg-based alloys using various zirconium(Zr)content.This approach presents a promising strategy for simultaneously improving corrosion resistance,maintaining biocompatibility,and enhancing strength without compromising osseointegration.By leveraging Mg’s inherent biodegradability,it has the potential to minimize the need for secondary surgeries,thereby reducing costs and resources.This paper is a systematic study aimed at understanding the corrosion mechanisms of Mg–Zr coatings,denoted Mg-xZr(x=0–5 at.%).Zr-doped coatings exhibited columnar growth leading to denser and refined structures with increasing Zr content.XRD analysis confirmed the presence of the Mg(00.2)basal plane,shifting towards higher angles(1.15°)with 5 at.%Zr doping due to lattice parameter changes(i.e.,decrease and increase of“c”and“a”lattice parameters,respectively).Mg–Zr coatings exhibited“liquidphilic”behavior,while Young’s modulus retained a steady value around 80 GPa across all samples.However,the hardness has significantly improved across all samples’coating,reaching the highest value of(2.2±0.3)GPa for 5 at.%Zr.Electrochemical testing in simulated body fluid(SBF)at 37℃ revealed a significant enhancement in corrosion resistance for Mg–Zr coatings containing 1.0–3.4 at.%Zr.Compared with the 5 at.%Zr coating which exhibited a corrosion rate of 32 mm/year,these coatings displayed lower corrosion rates,ranging from 1 to 12 mm/year.This synergistic enhancement in mechanical properties and corrosion resistance,achieved with 2.0–3.4 at.%Zr,suggests potential ability for reducing stress shielding and controlled degradation performance,and consequently,promising functional biodegradable materials for temporary bone implants.展开更多
The fluvial-tidal transition(FTT)is a complex depositional zone,where fluvial flow is modified by tides as rivers approach a receiving marine basin.Variations in the relative importance of tidal versus fluvial process...The fluvial-tidal transition(FTT)is a complex depositional zone,where fluvial flow is modified by tides as rivers approach a receiving marine basin.Variations in the relative importance of tidal versus fluvial processes lead to a distinctive distribution of sediments that accumulate on channel bars.The FTT generally consists of three broad zones:(1)a freshwater-tidal zone;(2)a tidally influenced freshwater to brackish-water transition:and(3)a zone of relatively sustained brackish-water conditions with stronger tides.A very common type of deposit through the fluvial-tidal transition,especially on the margins of migrating channels,is inclined heterolithic stratification(IHS).At present,a detailed account of changes in the character of IHS across the FIT of a paleo-channel system has not been reported,although a number of modern examples have been documented.To fill this gap,we quantitatively assess the sedimentology and ichnology of IHS from seven cored intervals in three geographic areas situated within the youngest paleovalley("A"Valley)in the Lower Cretaceous McMurray Formation of Alberta.Canada.We compare the data to trends defined along the FTT in the present-day Fraser River in British Columbia.Canada to interpret paleo-depositional position in the ancient fluvial-tidal channels.Analysis determined that the mean mudstone thickness is 8.2 cm in the southern study area(SA).Mean thickness increases to 11 cm in the central study area(CA),and decreases again to 4.4 cm in the northern study area(NA).The proportion of mudstone is 31%in SA,44%in CA,and 27%in NA.Thicknessweighted mean bioturbation intensity in sands varied from 0.29 in SA and CA.to 0.28 in NA.On the other hand,thickness-weighted mean bioturbation intensity(Bl)in mudstone increases from 1.46 in SA.to 1.77 in CA.and is 1.94 in NA.The ichnological diversity also increased from south to north.Sedimentological results show sinilar trends to those of the Fraser River,enabling the identification of a freshwater to brackish-water transition zone with tidal influence.The interpreted position of the transition is underpinned by the bioturbation intensity and trace-fossil diversity trends,indicating periodic brackish-water conditions throughout SA in the McMurray Formation during low river flow conditions.Together,these data suggest that a broad FTT existed in the"A"Valley,with fluvial-dominated channels to the south that experienced seasonal brackish-water inundation during base flow,and channels experiencing increasing brackish-water influence lying further north towards a turbidity maximun zone.The FIT zone appears to have extended for several hundred kilometers fron south to north.Based on the sedimentological and ichnological data,as well as estimations of lateral accretion rates,we refute the colmonly applied Mississippi River depositional analogue for McMurray Formation channels.Rather,we show that while not a perfect fit,the tidally influenced Fraser River shows much greater agreement with the depositional character recorded in McMurray Formation IHS.Future work on the McMurray system should focus on characterizing tide-dominatecl deltaic and estuarine systems,such as the Ganges-Brahmaputra,and on forward-modeling the evolution of tide-dominated and tideinfluenced river systems.展开更多
In the Lower CretaceousMcMurray-Clearwater succession of the intracontinental Alberta Foreland Basin,Canada,detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology samples(referred to herein as DZ samples)have been used to interpret the s...In the Lower CretaceousMcMurray-Clearwater succession of the intracontinental Alberta Foreland Basin,Canada,detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology samples(referred to herein as DZ samples)have been used to interpret the strata as representing a paleo-continental-scale drainage system.However,the majority of DZ samples are relatively small(n≈90–100),and syndepositional DZ(i.e.,crystallization age<5 Ma older than depositional age)are rare.This has forced a reliance on dinocysts with long stratigraphic ranges to chronostratigraphically subdivide the McMurray-Clearwater succession rather than employing maximum depositional ages(MDAs)derived from DZ samples.Herein,43 DZ samples(taken from20 subsurface cores)are assigned to 1 of 5 stratigraphic intervals,and in each stratigraphic interval all associated DZ samples are combined to produce a grouped DZ sample.Analysis and comparison of individual and grouped DZ samples are used to(1)assess variability in provenance through time and space,and(2)assess the accuracy of chronostratigraphically subdividing the succession using MDAs.Along the main paleo-drainage axis,a comparison of dissimilarity between DZ samples from the same stratigraphic interval,as well as between stratigraphic intervals,reveals increasing average dissimilarity between individual DZ samples and their respective grouped DZ samplewith increasing spatial separation of samples.These data indicate that in the McMurray Depocenter some sediment is sourced from local tributaries,leading to geographical provenance variability.CalculatedMDAs for all 43 DZ samples and groupedMDAs(gMDAs)for the 5 grouped DZ samples are compared to an ash-derived absolute age and existing biostratigraphy.In theMcMurray Formation,comparison of MDAs to gMDAs shows that in basins with rare syndepositional DZ,the gMDA method improved depositional age estimates by transforming low-confidence MDAs(e.g.,youngest single grains)into high-confidence(multi-grain)gMDAs.In the Clearwater Formationwhere syndepositional DZ are plentiful(i.e.,>5%of the total DZ population),calculating maximumlikelihood ages fromgrouped DZ samples avoids negatively biased(i.e.,too young)MDAs.We suggest grouped DZ samples and the gMDA method be used in systems with multiple DZ samples from a well-defined stratigraphic interval as a means of assessing variability in provenancewithin a depositional system and for improving estimates of depositional ages using DZ.展开更多
In the last decades,vanadium alloyed coatings have been introduced as potential candidates for self-lubrication due to their perfect tribological properties.In this work,the influence of V incorporation on the wear pe...In the last decades,vanadium alloyed coatings have been introduced as potential candidates for self-lubrication due to their perfect tribological properties.In this work,the influence of V incorporation on the wear performance and oxidation resistance of TiSiN/CrN film coatings deposited by direct current(DC)reactive magnetron sputtering is investigated.The results show that vanadium incorporation significantly decreases the oxidation resistance of the coatings.In general,two layers are formed during the oxidation process:i)Ti(V)O_(2) on top,followed by a protective layer,which is subdivided into two layers,Cr_(2)O_(3) and Si-O.ii)The diffusion of V controls the oxidation of V-containing coatings.The addition of vanadium improves the wear resistance of coatings,and the wear rate decreases with increasing V content in the coatings;however,the friction coefficient is independent of the chemical composition of the coatings.The wear of the V-containing coatings is driven by polishing wear.展开更多
Water and air quality of eight seawater swimming pools using chlorine disinfection was measured during four sampling campaigns, spread on one full-year, and in four thalassotherapy centers located in Southeast of Fran...Water and air quality of eight seawater swimming pools using chlorine disinfection was measured during four sampling campaigns, spread on one full-year, and in four thalassotherapy centers located in Southeast of France. Concentrations of trihalomethanes（THMs） in air and in water as well as concentrations of parameters, including nonpurgeable organic carbon（NPOC）, free residual chlorine（Cl_f）, pH, Kjeldhal Nitrogen（KN）, salinity,conductivity, bromide ions and, water and air temperature, were measured. Water and air samples were collected in triplicates morning — at the opening of the pools —, noon and night — at the closing of the pools —, in summer and winter. Data analysis was performed by Principal Component Analysis（PCA） and rotated component matrix, from both data quality and other parameters such as TOC, aromaticity（UV_（254））, pH, hygrometry, and free residual chlorine（Cl_f）. This statistical analysis demonstrates a high correlation between TOC, Cl_fand UV_（254） and THM levels found in air and water, particularly for the major ones（CHBr_3in water：300.0 μg/L mean, 1029.0 μg/L maximum; CHBr_3 in air： 266.1 μg/m^3 mean,1600.0 μg/m^3 maximum, and CHClBr_2 in water： 18.9 μg/L mean, 81.0 μg/L maximum;CHClBr_2 in air： 13.6 μg/m^3 mean, 150.0 μg/m^3maximum）. These high levels of bromoform（CHBr_3） are particularly worrisome in such health institutions, even these levels do not exceed the Permissible Exposure Limit（PEL） of 5 mg/m^3 as an 8 hour time-weighted average currently fixed by various administrations, such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration（OSHA）.展开更多
1.Introduction We are pleased to have the opportunity to discuss our paper (La Croix et al.,2019) with Durkin et al.(2020).Their critique demonstrates the wide interest in the McMurray Formation held by both academic ...1.Introduction We are pleased to have the opportunity to discuss our paper (La Croix et al.,2019) with Durkin et al.(2020).Their critique demonstrates the wide interest in the McMurray Formation held by both academic and industry geoscientists,especially given the economic importance of the stratigraphic interval.Furthermore,it highlights the various working interpretations for the unit’s paleoenvironmental setting and stratigraphic architecture;two highly contested scientific questions.Durkin et al.展开更多
With a rapidly ageing population in Singapore, older adults and their family members face challenges of age-related diseases, caregiver stress, and increasing demand for caregiving services. To address this pressing i...With a rapidly ageing population in Singapore, older adults and their family members face challenges of age-related diseases, caregiver stress, and increasing demand for caregiving services. To address this pressing issue, this pilot study aims to introduce online health coaching for older adults in Singapore and evaluate its effectiveness on maintenance of personal healthcare. In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, older adults’ activities were largely restricted by measures on social distancing. The online health coaching provided a solution for older adults to achieve a healthy lifestyle in a contactless manner. In this pilot study, 18 older adults (≥55 years old) who were willing to be coached by trained health coaches (n = 10) for 8 weeks (once a week) were recruited. Pre- and post-surveys with older adults were conducted. Furthermore, health coaching booklet was used to control the quality of coaching and to record diet and exercise plans. The pilot study demonstrated that the health coaching provided older adults with knowledge of nutrition and exercise, raised their awareness of well-being in terms of daily meals and regular exercise, and provided an alternative to maintain a healthy lifestyle amidst global pandemic. Additionally, we also identified that the older adults’ satisfactions with health coaching were positively associated with educational levels (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.31). Lastly, this pilot study highlighted that health coaching standardization process for older adults is critical for researchers and healthcare practitioners in the future.展开更多
Acute scrotal pain(AsP)requiring surgical exploration is common in the pediatric population,but little has been reported on this subject with regard to the adult population.The aim of this study was to investigate the...Acute scrotal pain(AsP)requiring surgical exploration is common in the pediatric population,but little has been reported on this subject with regard to the adult population.The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of scrotal explorations performed on adult patients.Patients over 21 years of age who underwent surgical exploration for ASP with suspected testicular torsion(TT)at 14 French hospitals between January 2005 and December 2019 were included in this study.The main outcome measures were demographic characteristics,pathology found during scrotal exploration,and perioperative outcomes.Logistic regression was used to perform univariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictors of TT.Data for 1329 men were analyzed.The median age was 30(interquartile range[IQR]:25-35;range:21-89)years.Regarding the clinical examination,867(65.2%)patients presented with an elevation of the testicle,613(46.1%)patients with scrotal edema or erythema,and 211(15.9%)patients with nausea or vomiting.Operative findings identified TT in only 684(51.5%)patients,epididymo-orchitis in 112(8.4%)patients,a tumor in 16(1.2%)patients,and no causes in 475(35.7%)patients.Orchiectomy for nonviable testes was required in 101(7.6%)patients.In multivariate analysis,an elevation of the testicle,erythema/swelling,and the presence of nausea/vomiting were found to be associated with the occurrence of TT.Testicular torsion is not exclusive to children and adolescents,so must be considered in males of any age with acute scrotal findings.However,one-third of scrotal explorations in adults did not lead to a diagnosis.展开更多
We examined the incidence of point mutation in codon 12 of Ki-ras oncogene in human colorectal carcinomas by polymerase chain reaction in combination with alot-blot hybridization using mutation-specific ollgodeoxynucl...We examined the incidence of point mutation in codon 12 of Ki-ras oncogene in human colorectal carcinomas by polymerase chain reaction in combination with alot-blot hybridization using mutation-specific ollgodeoxynucleotide as probes. Among 72 colorectal carcinomas, point mutations were found in 36 samples, GGT to TGT in 16 cases and to AGT In 21 cases, one sample contain two different mutations. One of five normal mucosa contains the same mutation as in the adjacent carcinoma, suggesting that genetic alterations may also exist in the regions from which such carcinomas arise.展开更多
Purpose To evaluate the changes in oc ular aberrations in-duced by corneal flap creation.Design Prospective inter-ventional nonrandomized clinical t rial.Methods This study included 15patients who were schedu led for ...Purpose To evaluate the changes in oc ular aberrations in-duced by corneal flap creation.Design Prospective inter-ventional nonrandomized clinical t rial.Methods This study included 15patients who were schedu led for laser in situ keratomileusis.A nasal hinge flap w as created,using the Nidek MK -2000microkeratome and then replaced without performing laser ablation.The ocul ar aberrations were measured before and after flap creation using the Nidek Optical Path Difference Scanning System ARK -10000.Results The root mean square wavefro nt errors of the high-er -order optical aberrations(third -,fourth -,fifth -,and sixth -order aberrations)were not significantly altered at 1week postsurgery compared with t he preoperative val-ues(P >0.35).Conclusions Creating a corneal fla p with the Nidek MK -2000microkeratome did not induce chan-ges in higher-order optical aberrations as measured with the Nidek Optical Path Difference Scanning System ARK -10000during the early postoperativ e period.展开更多
IPEX (immune-dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked) syndr ome is an autoimmune disorder with an often lethal outcome in spite of immunosup pressive therapy. We report the successful use of sirolimus...IPEX (immune-dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked) syndr ome is an autoimmune disorder with an often lethal outcome in spite of immunosup pressive therapy. We report the successful use of sirolimus in 3 patients with I PEX. The efficacy of sirolimus is probably due to its different mode of action c ompared to calcineurin-dependent agents.展开更多
The inverse relationship between the tribological and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly selflubricant films,induced by the addition of soft lubricant agents that can diffuse quickly at elevated tempera...The inverse relationship between the tribological and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly selflubricant films,induced by the addition of soft lubricant agents that can diffuse quickly at elevated temperatures,has hindered the widespread use of these materials in industrial applications.This paper took this challenge to break through the above established relationship by developing novel nacrelike multilayered Mo_(2)N–SiN_(x)/Ag–SiN_(x)self-lubricant films via an radio frequency(RF)magnetron sputtering system for real applications where harsh conditions at elevated temperatures exist.The multilayered films,deposited by alternating deposition of Mo_(2)N–SiN_(x)and Ag–SiN_(x)modulation layers,exhibited three phases of face-centered cubic(fcc)Mo_(2)N,fcc Ag and SiN_(x),where SiN_(x)encapsulated the nano-crystalline Mo_(2)N and Ag phases in each layer to successfully induce a“brick and mortar”nacre-like microstructure(in the area without the coherent structure).The epitaxy growth of the Ag–SiN_(x)layers with thickness below 6 nm on the Mo_(2)N template resulted in an extraordinary increase in both the hardness and elastic modulus,which was able to prevent severe degradation of the mechanical properties caused by the addition of Ag.The room-temperature anti-friction property could be enhanced by increasing the Ag–SiN_(x)layer thickness due to the excellent lubricant nature of Ag,which acts in synergy with Mo_(2)N,while the wear rate below 4×10^(−8)mm^(3)/(N·mm)was due to the high mechanical strength.The tribological properties at 600℃also benefited from the interlocked multilayered architecture,which allowed an extreme low friction coefficient of~0.12 and a negligible wear rate(WR).This behavior was attributed to the synergism between the lubricant action of Ag and Mo_(2)N and the tribo-phase transformation from Ag_(2)Mo_(4)O_(13)to Ag_(2)MoO_(4).展开更多
The 2024 Climate Design Summit,held on October 29,2024,emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling climate change challenges.Experts from architecture,engineering,and environmental science ga...The 2024 Climate Design Summit,held on October 29,2024,emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling climate change challenges.Experts from architecture,engineering,and environmental science gathered to discuss sustainable solutions for mitigating climate disasters like floods,wildfires,and droughts.The summit advocated for crossdisciplinary solutions that integrate Nature-based Solutions as catalysts for climate resilience and are essential for long-term sustainability,and stressed that no single technical solution can address the complexity of climate issues.Successful case studies were highlighted as examples of how design can address both climate resilience and socio-economic challenges.The gathered insights and discussions on this summit reinforced that achieving climate resilience requires a holistic approach that blends scientific innovation,sustainable design,and community empowerment,and underlined the need for collaboration across disciplines and sectors to build resilient cities and infrastructures.展开更多
The recent Nature Water article,“To Solve Climate Change,We Need to Restore Our Sponge Planet,”by Kongjian Yu,Erica Gies,and Warren W.Wood[1],makes a compelling case for recalibrating climate strategies to prioritiz...The recent Nature Water article,“To Solve Climate Change,We Need to Restore Our Sponge Planet,”by Kongjian Yu,Erica Gies,and Warren W.Wood[1],makes a compelling case for recalibrating climate strategies to prioritize the water cycle alongside reducing carbon emissions.The authors highlight how human activities-agriculture,urbanization,and industrialization-have degraded 75%of the earth’s land,severely disrupting natural water systems.This degradation diminishes the planet’s capacity to regulate temperature through water vapor,cloud formation,and the hydrological cycle,further accelerating climate instability.展开更多
A multilayer film,composed by ZrN‒Ag(20 nm)and Mo‒S‒N(10 nm)layers,combining the intrinsic lubricant characteristics of each layer was deposited using DC magnetron sputtering system,to promote lubrication in a wide-ra...A multilayer film,composed by ZrN‒Ag(20 nm)and Mo‒S‒N(10 nm)layers,combining the intrinsic lubricant characteristics of each layer was deposited using DC magnetron sputtering system,to promote lubrication in a wide-range of temperatures.The results showed that the ZrN‒Ag/Mo‒S‒N multilayer film exhibited a sharp interface between the different layers.A face-centered cubic(fcc)dual-phases of ZrN and Ag co-existed in the ZrN‒Ag layers,whilst the Mo‒S‒N layers displayed a mixture of hexagonal close-packed MoS_(2)(hcp-MoS_(2))nano-particles and an amorphous phase.The multilayer film exhibited excellent room temperature(RT)triblogical behavior,as compared to the individual monolayer film,due to the combination of a relative high hardness with the low friction properties of both layers.The reorientation of MoS_(2)parallel to the sliding direction also contributed to the enhanced anti-frictional performance at RT.At 400℃,the reorientation of MoS_(2)as well as the formation of MoO_(3)phase were responsible for the lubrication,whilst the hard t-ZrO_(2)phase promoted abrasion and,consequently,led to increasing wear rate.At 600℃,the Ag_(2)MoO_(4)double-metal oxide was the responsible for the low friction and wear-resistance;furthermore,the observed transformation from t-ZrO_(2)to m-ZrO_(2),could also have contributed to the better tribological performance.展开更多
Bio-inspired soft robots have already shown the ability to handle uncertainty and adapt to unstructured environments.However,their availability is partially restricted by time-consuming,costly,and highly supervised de...Bio-inspired soft robots have already shown the ability to handle uncertainty and adapt to unstructured environments.However,their availability is partially restricted by time-consuming,costly,and highly supervised design-fabrication processes,often based on resource-intensive iterative workflows.Here,we propose an integrated approach targeting the design and fabrication of pneumatic soft actuators in a single casting step.Molds and sacrificial water-soluble hollow cores are printed using fused filament fabrication.A heated water circuit accelerates the dissolution of the core’s material and guarantees its complete removal from the actuator walls,while the actuator’s mechanical operability is defined through finite element analysis.This enables the fabrication of actuators with non-uniform cross-sections under minimal supervision,thereby reducing the number of iterations necessary during the design and fabrication processes.Three actuators capable of bending and linear motion were designed,fabricated,integrated,and demonstrated as 3 different bio-inspired soft robots,an earthworm-inspired robot,a 4-legged robot,and a robotic gripper.We demonstrate the availability,versatility,and effectiveness of the proposed methods,contributing to accelerating the design and fabrication of soft robots.This study represents a step toward increasing the accessibility of soft robots to people at a lower cost.展开更多
Insect gut symbiotic microbiota play essential roles in the growth, development, pathogenesis and environmental adaptation of host insects. The molecular and systems level analysis of insect gut symbiotic microbial co...Insect gut symbiotic microbiota play essential roles in the growth, development, pathogenesis and environmental adaptation of host insects. The molecular and systems level analysis of insect gut symbiotic microbial community will allow us to discover novel biocatalysts for biomass deconstruction and to develop innovative strategies for pest management. We hereby review the various molecular biology techniques as applied to insect gut symbiont analysis. This review aims to serve as an informative resource for experimental design and research strategy development in the field. We first discuss various strategies for sample preparation and their pros and cons. The traditional molecular techniques like DGGE, RFLP and FISH are covered with respect to how they are applied to study the composition, diversity and dynamics of insect gut symbiotic microbiota. We then focus on the various ＇ omics＇ techniques. The metagenome analysis together with the recent advancements in next-generation sequencing will provide enormous sequencing information, allowing in-depth microbial diversity analysis and modeling of pathways for biological processes such as biomass degradation. The metagenome sequencing will also enable the study of system dynamics and gene expression with metatranscriptome and metaproteome methods. The integration of different ＇omics＇ level data will allow us to understand how insect gut works as a system to carry out its functions. The molecular and systems-level understanding will also guide the reverse design of next-generation biorefinery.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51801079,52001140)the National Funds Through FCT of Portugal–Fundacao para a Ciência e a Tecnologia,under a scientific contract of 2021.04115.CEECIND,and the Projects of UIDB/00285/2020,and LA/0112/2020。
文摘To improve the processability and mechanical properties of the selective laser melting(SLM)low Sc content Al−Mg−Sc−Zr alloy,Mn was used to partially replace Mg.The processability,microstructure,and mechanical properties of the SLM-fabricated Al−Mg−Mn−Sc−Zr alloy were systematically investigated by density measurement,microstructure characterization,and tensile testing.The results revealed that dense samples could be obtained by adjusting the SLM process parameters.The alloy exhibited a fine equiaxed-columnar bimodal grain microstructure.The presence of primary Al3Sc andα-Al(Mn,Fe)Si particles contributed to the grain refinement of the alloy with an average grain size of 4.63μm.Upon aging treatment at 350°C for 2 h,the strength and elongation of the alloy were simultaneously improved due to the precipitation of Al3Sc nanoparticles and the formation of the 9R phase.This study demonstrates that the strength−plasticity trade-off of the aluminum alloy can be overcome by utilizing SLM technology and subsequent post-heat treatment to induce the formation of the long-period stacked ordered phase.
基金support by the project n°7225-ILLIANCE High Performing EnergyPro-jeto apoiado pelo PRR-Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência e pelos Fundos Europeus Next Generation EU,no sequência do AVISO N.°02/C05-i01/2022,Componente 5-Capital-ização e Inovação Empresarial-Agendas Mobilizadores para a Inovação Empresarialsupport by national funds through FCT-Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia,under the project UID/EMS/00285/2020,ARISE-LA/P/0112/2020.
文摘Magnesium(Mg)alloys are widely used for temporary bone implants due to their favorable biodegradability,cytocompatibility,hemocompatibility,and close mechanical properties to bone.However,rapid degradation and inadequate strength limit their applicability.To overcome this,the direct current magnetron sputtering technique is employed for surface coating in Mg-based alloys using various zirconium(Zr)content.This approach presents a promising strategy for simultaneously improving corrosion resistance,maintaining biocompatibility,and enhancing strength without compromising osseointegration.By leveraging Mg’s inherent biodegradability,it has the potential to minimize the need for secondary surgeries,thereby reducing costs and resources.This paper is a systematic study aimed at understanding the corrosion mechanisms of Mg–Zr coatings,denoted Mg-xZr(x=0–5 at.%).Zr-doped coatings exhibited columnar growth leading to denser and refined structures with increasing Zr content.XRD analysis confirmed the presence of the Mg(00.2)basal plane,shifting towards higher angles(1.15°)with 5 at.%Zr doping due to lattice parameter changes(i.e.,decrease and increase of“c”and“a”lattice parameters,respectively).Mg–Zr coatings exhibited“liquidphilic”behavior,while Young’s modulus retained a steady value around 80 GPa across all samples.However,the hardness has significantly improved across all samples’coating,reaching the highest value of(2.2±0.3)GPa for 5 at.%Zr.Electrochemical testing in simulated body fluid(SBF)at 37℃ revealed a significant enhancement in corrosion resistance for Mg–Zr coatings containing 1.0–3.4 at.%Zr.Compared with the 5 at.%Zr coating which exhibited a corrosion rate of 32 mm/year,these coatings displayed lower corrosion rates,ranging from 1 to 12 mm/year.This synergistic enhancement in mechanical properties and corrosion resistance,achieved with 2.0–3.4 at.%Zr,suggests potential ability for reducing stress shielding and controlled degradation performance,and consequently,promising functional biodegradable materials for temporary bone implants.
基金The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and Carbon Management Canada funded the rock record portion of this study
文摘The fluvial-tidal transition(FTT)is a complex depositional zone,where fluvial flow is modified by tides as rivers approach a receiving marine basin.Variations in the relative importance of tidal versus fluvial processes lead to a distinctive distribution of sediments that accumulate on channel bars.The FTT generally consists of three broad zones:(1)a freshwater-tidal zone;(2)a tidally influenced freshwater to brackish-water transition:and(3)a zone of relatively sustained brackish-water conditions with stronger tides.A very common type of deposit through the fluvial-tidal transition,especially on the margins of migrating channels,is inclined heterolithic stratification(IHS).At present,a detailed account of changes in the character of IHS across the FIT of a paleo-channel system has not been reported,although a number of modern examples have been documented.To fill this gap,we quantitatively assess the sedimentology and ichnology of IHS from seven cored intervals in three geographic areas situated within the youngest paleovalley("A"Valley)in the Lower Cretaceous McMurray Formation of Alberta.Canada.We compare the data to trends defined along the FTT in the present-day Fraser River in British Columbia.Canada to interpret paleo-depositional position in the ancient fluvial-tidal channels.Analysis determined that the mean mudstone thickness is 8.2 cm in the southern study area(SA).Mean thickness increases to 11 cm in the central study area(CA),and decreases again to 4.4 cm in the northern study area(NA).The proportion of mudstone is 31%in SA,44%in CA,and 27%in NA.Thicknessweighted mean bioturbation intensity in sands varied from 0.29 in SA and CA.to 0.28 in NA.On the other hand,thickness-weighted mean bioturbation intensity(Bl)in mudstone increases from 1.46 in SA.to 1.77 in CA.and is 1.94 in NA.The ichnological diversity also increased from south to north.Sedimentological results show sinilar trends to those of the Fraser River,enabling the identification of a freshwater to brackish-water transition zone with tidal influence.The interpreted position of the transition is underpinned by the bioturbation intensity and trace-fossil diversity trends,indicating periodic brackish-water conditions throughout SA in the McMurray Formation during low river flow conditions.Together,these data suggest that a broad FTT existed in the"A"Valley,with fluvial-dominated channels to the south that experienced seasonal brackish-water inundation during base flow,and channels experiencing increasing brackish-water influence lying further north towards a turbidity maximun zone.The FIT zone appears to have extended for several hundred kilometers fron south to north.Based on the sedimentological and ichnological data,as well as estimations of lateral accretion rates,we refute the colmonly applied Mississippi River depositional analogue for McMurray Formation channels.Rather,we show that while not a perfect fit,the tidally influenced Fraser River shows much greater agreement with the depositional character recorded in McMurray Formation IHS.Future work on the McMurray system should focus on characterizing tide-dominatecl deltaic and estuarine systems,such as the Ganges-Brahmaputra,and on forward-modeling the evolution of tide-dominated and tideinfluenced river systems.
基金We acknowledge BP plc,Cenovus Energy,Husky Energy,Nexen CNOOC Ltd.,and Woodside Energy Ltd.for funding the McMurray Research Consortium,and GeoLOGIC for providing the GeoScout software used in this study.
文摘In the Lower CretaceousMcMurray-Clearwater succession of the intracontinental Alberta Foreland Basin,Canada,detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology samples(referred to herein as DZ samples)have been used to interpret the strata as representing a paleo-continental-scale drainage system.However,the majority of DZ samples are relatively small(n≈90–100),and syndepositional DZ(i.e.,crystallization age<5 Ma older than depositional age)are rare.This has forced a reliance on dinocysts with long stratigraphic ranges to chronostratigraphically subdivide the McMurray-Clearwater succession rather than employing maximum depositional ages(MDAs)derived from DZ samples.Herein,43 DZ samples(taken from20 subsurface cores)are assigned to 1 of 5 stratigraphic intervals,and in each stratigraphic interval all associated DZ samples are combined to produce a grouped DZ sample.Analysis and comparison of individual and grouped DZ samples are used to(1)assess variability in provenance through time and space,and(2)assess the accuracy of chronostratigraphically subdividing the succession using MDAs.Along the main paleo-drainage axis,a comparison of dissimilarity between DZ samples from the same stratigraphic interval,as well as between stratigraphic intervals,reveals increasing average dissimilarity between individual DZ samples and their respective grouped DZ samplewith increasing spatial separation of samples.These data indicate that in the McMurray Depocenter some sediment is sourced from local tributaries,leading to geographical provenance variability.CalculatedMDAs for all 43 DZ samples and groupedMDAs(gMDAs)for the 5 grouped DZ samples are compared to an ash-derived absolute age and existing biostratigraphy.In theMcMurray Formation,comparison of MDAs to gMDAs shows that in basins with rare syndepositional DZ,the gMDA method improved depositional age estimates by transforming low-confidence MDAs(e.g.,youngest single grains)into high-confidence(multi-grain)gMDAs.In the Clearwater Formationwhere syndepositional DZ are plentiful(i.e.,>5%of the total DZ population),calculating maximumlikelihood ages fromgrouped DZ samples avoids negatively biased(i.e.,too young)MDAs.We suggest grouped DZ samples and the gMDA method be used in systems with multiple DZ samples from a well-defined stratigraphic interval as a means of assessing variability in provenancewithin a depositional system and for improving estimates of depositional ages using DZ.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51801081 and 52171071)national funds through FCT of Portugal-Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia,under a scientific contract of 2021.04115,CEMMPRE-ref.“UIDB/00285/2020”and LA/P/0112/2020 projects+2 种基金FEDER funds through the COMPETE program-Operational Program on Competitiveness Factorsnational funds through FCT-Foundation for Science and Technology,Outstanding University Young Teachers of“Qing Lan Project”of Jiangsu Province of China,Excellent Talents of“Shenlan Project”of Jiangsu University of Science and Technology of ChinaA part of this study was supported by the Directorate-General of Scientific Research and Technological Development(Algeria)。
文摘In the last decades,vanadium alloyed coatings have been introduced as potential candidates for self-lubrication due to their perfect tribological properties.In this work,the influence of V incorporation on the wear performance and oxidation resistance of TiSiN/CrN film coatings deposited by direct current(DC)reactive magnetron sputtering is investigated.The results show that vanadium incorporation significantly decreases the oxidation resistance of the coatings.In general,two layers are formed during the oxidation process:i)Ti(V)O_(2) on top,followed by a protective layer,which is subdivided into two layers,Cr_(2)O_(3) and Si-O.ii)The diffusion of V controls the oxidation of V-containing coatings.The addition of vanadium improves the wear resistance of coatings,and the wear rate decreases with increasing V content in the coatings;however,the friction coefficient is independent of the chemical composition of the coatings.The wear of the V-containing coatings is driven by polishing wear.
基金supported by a grant from the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (Grant 2009-CRD-21)the Doctoral School of “Environmental Sciences” (ED251) at Aix-Marseille Universitythe French Ministry of Higher Education and Research for the doctoral scholarship
文摘Water and air quality of eight seawater swimming pools using chlorine disinfection was measured during four sampling campaigns, spread on one full-year, and in four thalassotherapy centers located in Southeast of France. Concentrations of trihalomethanes（THMs） in air and in water as well as concentrations of parameters, including nonpurgeable organic carbon（NPOC）, free residual chlorine（Cl_f）, pH, Kjeldhal Nitrogen（KN）, salinity,conductivity, bromide ions and, water and air temperature, were measured. Water and air samples were collected in triplicates morning — at the opening of the pools —, noon and night — at the closing of the pools —, in summer and winter. Data analysis was performed by Principal Component Analysis（PCA） and rotated component matrix, from both data quality and other parameters such as TOC, aromaticity（UV_（254））, pH, hygrometry, and free residual chlorine（Cl_f）. This statistical analysis demonstrates a high correlation between TOC, Cl_fand UV_（254） and THM levels found in air and water, particularly for the major ones（CHBr_3in water：300.0 μg/L mean, 1029.0 μg/L maximum; CHBr_3 in air： 266.1 μg/m^3 mean,1600.0 μg/m^3 maximum, and CHClBr_2 in water： 18.9 μg/L mean, 81.0 μg/L maximum;CHClBr_2 in air： 13.6 μg/m^3 mean, 150.0 μg/m^3maximum）. These high levels of bromoform（CHBr_3） are particularly worrisome in such health institutions, even these levels do not exceed the Permissible Exposure Limit（PEL） of 5 mg/m^3 as an 8 hour time-weighted average currently fixed by various administrations, such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration（OSHA）.
文摘1.Introduction We are pleased to have the opportunity to discuss our paper (La Croix et al.,2019) with Durkin et al.(2020).Their critique demonstrates the wide interest in the McMurray Formation held by both academic and industry geoscientists,especially given the economic importance of the stratigraphic interval.Furthermore,it highlights the various working interpretations for the unit’s paleoenvironmental setting and stratigraphic architecture;two highly contested scientific questions.Durkin et al.
文摘With a rapidly ageing population in Singapore, older adults and their family members face challenges of age-related diseases, caregiver stress, and increasing demand for caregiving services. To address this pressing issue, this pilot study aims to introduce online health coaching for older adults in Singapore and evaluate its effectiveness on maintenance of personal healthcare. In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, older adults’ activities were largely restricted by measures on social distancing. The online health coaching provided a solution for older adults to achieve a healthy lifestyle in a contactless manner. In this pilot study, 18 older adults (≥55 years old) who were willing to be coached by trained health coaches (n = 10) for 8 weeks (once a week) were recruited. Pre- and post-surveys with older adults were conducted. Furthermore, health coaching booklet was used to control the quality of coaching and to record diet and exercise plans. The pilot study demonstrated that the health coaching provided older adults with knowledge of nutrition and exercise, raised their awareness of well-being in terms of daily meals and regular exercise, and provided an alternative to maintain a healthy lifestyle amidst global pandemic. Additionally, we also identified that the older adults’ satisfactions with health coaching were positively associated with educational levels (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.31). Lastly, this pilot study highlighted that health coaching standardization process for older adults is critical for researchers and healthcare practitioners in the future.
文摘Acute scrotal pain(AsP)requiring surgical exploration is common in the pediatric population,but little has been reported on this subject with regard to the adult population.The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of scrotal explorations performed on adult patients.Patients over 21 years of age who underwent surgical exploration for ASP with suspected testicular torsion(TT)at 14 French hospitals between January 2005 and December 2019 were included in this study.The main outcome measures were demographic characteristics,pathology found during scrotal exploration,and perioperative outcomes.Logistic regression was used to perform univariate and multivariate analyses to identify predictors of TT.Data for 1329 men were analyzed.The median age was 30(interquartile range[IQR]:25-35;range:21-89)years.Regarding the clinical examination,867(65.2%)patients presented with an elevation of the testicle,613(46.1%)patients with scrotal edema or erythema,and 211(15.9%)patients with nausea or vomiting.Operative findings identified TT in only 684(51.5%)patients,epididymo-orchitis in 112(8.4%)patients,a tumor in 16(1.2%)patients,and no causes in 475(35.7%)patients.Orchiectomy for nonviable testes was required in 101(7.6%)patients.In multivariate analysis,an elevation of the testicle,erythema/swelling,and the presence of nausea/vomiting were found to be associated with the occurrence of TT.Testicular torsion is not exclusive to children and adolescents,so must be considered in males of any age with acute scrotal findings.However,one-third of scrotal explorations in adults did not lead to a diagnosis.
文摘We examined the incidence of point mutation in codon 12 of Ki-ras oncogene in human colorectal carcinomas by polymerase chain reaction in combination with alot-blot hybridization using mutation-specific ollgodeoxynucleotide as probes. Among 72 colorectal carcinomas, point mutations were found in 36 samples, GGT to TGT in 16 cases and to AGT In 21 cases, one sample contain two different mutations. One of five normal mucosa contains the same mutation as in the adjacent carcinoma, suggesting that genetic alterations may also exist in the regions from which such carcinomas arise.
文摘Purpose To evaluate the changes in oc ular aberrations in-duced by corneal flap creation.Design Prospective inter-ventional nonrandomized clinical t rial.Methods This study included 15patients who were schedu led for laser in situ keratomileusis.A nasal hinge flap w as created,using the Nidek MK -2000microkeratome and then replaced without performing laser ablation.The ocul ar aberrations were measured before and after flap creation using the Nidek Optical Path Difference Scanning System ARK -10000.Results The root mean square wavefro nt errors of the high-er -order optical aberrations(third -,fourth -,fifth -,and sixth -order aberrations)were not significantly altered at 1week postsurgery compared with t he preoperative val-ues(P >0.35).Conclusions Creating a corneal fla p with the Nidek MK -2000microkeratome did not induce chan-ges in higher-order optical aberrations as measured with the Nidek Optical Path Difference Scanning System ARK -10000during the early postoperativ e period.
文摘IPEX (immune-dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked) syndr ome is an autoimmune disorder with an often lethal outcome in spite of immunosup pressive therapy. We report the successful use of sirolimus in 3 patients with I PEX. The efficacy of sirolimus is probably due to its different mode of action c ompared to calcineurin-dependent agents.
基金supported by projects granted by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52171071 and 51801081)national funds through FCT of Portugal-Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia,under a scientific contract of 2021.04115.CEECIND,2023.06224.CEECIND+3 种基金the projects of UIDB/00285/2020,and LA/0112/2020,MCTool21-ref.“POCI-01-0247-FEDER-045940”co-financed via FEDER and FCTFundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia(COMPETE)The projects of UIDB/00285/2020,and LA/0112/2020The Slovenian Research Agency ARIS under the Research Core Funding Programme No.P2-0231 and the project MSCA-COFUND-5100-237/2023-9supported by the Outstanding University Young Teachers of“Qing Lan Project”of Jiangsu Province of China and the Excellent Talents of“Shenlan Project”of Jiangsu University of Science of China.
文摘The inverse relationship between the tribological and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly selflubricant films,induced by the addition of soft lubricant agents that can diffuse quickly at elevated temperatures,has hindered the widespread use of these materials in industrial applications.This paper took this challenge to break through the above established relationship by developing novel nacrelike multilayered Mo_(2)N–SiN_(x)/Ag–SiN_(x)self-lubricant films via an radio frequency(RF)magnetron sputtering system for real applications where harsh conditions at elevated temperatures exist.The multilayered films,deposited by alternating deposition of Mo_(2)N–SiN_(x)and Ag–SiN_(x)modulation layers,exhibited three phases of face-centered cubic(fcc)Mo_(2)N,fcc Ag and SiN_(x),where SiN_(x)encapsulated the nano-crystalline Mo_(2)N and Ag phases in each layer to successfully induce a“brick and mortar”nacre-like microstructure(in the area without the coherent structure).The epitaxy growth of the Ag–SiN_(x)layers with thickness below 6 nm on the Mo_(2)N template resulted in an extraordinary increase in both the hardness and elastic modulus,which was able to prevent severe degradation of the mechanical properties caused by the addition of Ag.The room-temperature anti-friction property could be enhanced by increasing the Ag–SiN_(x)layer thickness due to the excellent lubricant nature of Ag,which acts in synergy with Mo_(2)N,while the wear rate below 4×10^(−8)mm^(3)/(N·mm)was due to the high mechanical strength.The tribological properties at 600℃also benefited from the interlocked multilayered architecture,which allowed an extreme low friction coefficient of~0.12 and a negligible wear rate(WR).This behavior was attributed to the synergism between the lubricant action of Ag and Mo_(2)N and the tribo-phase transformation from Ag_(2)Mo_(4)O_(13)to Ag_(2)MoO_(4).
文摘The 2024 Climate Design Summit,held on October 29,2024,emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling climate change challenges.Experts from architecture,engineering,and environmental science gathered to discuss sustainable solutions for mitigating climate disasters like floods,wildfires,and droughts.The summit advocated for crossdisciplinary solutions that integrate Nature-based Solutions as catalysts for climate resilience and are essential for long-term sustainability,and stressed that no single technical solution can address the complexity of climate issues.Successful case studies were highlighted as examples of how design can address both climate resilience and socio-economic challenges.The gathered insights and discussions on this summit reinforced that achieving climate resilience requires a holistic approach that blends scientific innovation,sustainable design,and community empowerment,and underlined the need for collaboration across disciplines and sectors to build resilient cities and infrastructures.
文摘The recent Nature Water article,“To Solve Climate Change,We Need to Restore Our Sponge Planet,”by Kongjian Yu,Erica Gies,and Warren W.Wood[1],makes a compelling case for recalibrating climate strategies to prioritize the water cycle alongside reducing carbon emissions.The authors highlight how human activities-agriculture,urbanization,and industrialization-have degraded 75%of the earth’s land,severely disrupting natural water systems.This degradation diminishes the planet’s capacity to regulate temperature through water vapor,cloud formation,and the hydrological cycle,further accelerating climate instability.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52171071,51801081,and 52071159)national funds through FCT of Portugal-Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia,under a scientific contract of 2021.04115.CEECIND,and the project of UIDB/00285/2020,LA/0112/2020,MCTool21-ref.“POCI-01-0247-FEDER-045940”cofinanced via FEDER and FCT-Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia(COMPETE),Outstanding University Young Teachers of“Qing Lan Project”of Jiangsu Province of China,Excellent Talents of“Shenlan Project”of Jiangsu University of Science of China.
文摘A multilayer film,composed by ZrN‒Ag(20 nm)and Mo‒S‒N(10 nm)layers,combining the intrinsic lubricant characteristics of each layer was deposited using DC magnetron sputtering system,to promote lubrication in a wide-range of temperatures.The results showed that the ZrN‒Ag/Mo‒S‒N multilayer film exhibited a sharp interface between the different layers.A face-centered cubic(fcc)dual-phases of ZrN and Ag co-existed in the ZrN‒Ag layers,whilst the Mo‒S‒N layers displayed a mixture of hexagonal close-packed MoS_(2)(hcp-MoS_(2))nano-particles and an amorphous phase.The multilayer film exhibited excellent room temperature(RT)triblogical behavior,as compared to the individual monolayer film,due to the combination of a relative high hardness with the low friction properties of both layers.The reorientation of MoS_(2)parallel to the sliding direction also contributed to the enhanced anti-frictional performance at RT.At 400℃,the reorientation of MoS_(2)as well as the formation of MoO_(3)phase were responsible for the lubrication,whilst the hard t-ZrO_(2)phase promoted abrasion and,consequently,led to increasing wear rate.At 600℃,the Ag_(2)MoO_(4)double-metal oxide was the responsible for the low friction and wear-resistance;furthermore,the observed transformation from t-ZrO_(2)to m-ZrO_(2),could also have contributed to the better tribological performance.
基金supported by Portuguese national funds through FCT-Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia,[grant numbers UIDB/00285/2020,LA/P/0112/2020,and 2022.13512.BD].
文摘Bio-inspired soft robots have already shown the ability to handle uncertainty and adapt to unstructured environments.However,their availability is partially restricted by time-consuming,costly,and highly supervised design-fabrication processes,often based on resource-intensive iterative workflows.Here,we propose an integrated approach targeting the design and fabrication of pneumatic soft actuators in a single casting step.Molds and sacrificial water-soluble hollow cores are printed using fused filament fabrication.A heated water circuit accelerates the dissolution of the core’s material and guarantees its complete removal from the actuator walls,while the actuator’s mechanical operability is defined through finite element analysis.This enables the fabrication of actuators with non-uniform cross-sections under minimal supervision,thereby reducing the number of iterations necessary during the design and fabrication processes.Three actuators capable of bending and linear motion were designed,fabricated,integrated,and demonstrated as 3 different bio-inspired soft robots,an earthworm-inspired robot,a 4-legged robot,and a robotic gripper.We demonstrate the availability,versatility,and effectiveness of the proposed methods,contributing to accelerating the design and fabrication of soft robots.This study represents a step toward increasing the accessibility of soft robots to people at a lower cost.
文摘Insect gut symbiotic microbiota play essential roles in the growth, development, pathogenesis and environmental adaptation of host insects. The molecular and systems level analysis of insect gut symbiotic microbial community will allow us to discover novel biocatalysts for biomass deconstruction and to develop innovative strategies for pest management. We hereby review the various molecular biology techniques as applied to insect gut symbiont analysis. This review aims to serve as an informative resource for experimental design and research strategy development in the field. We first discuss various strategies for sample preparation and their pros and cons. The traditional molecular techniques like DGGE, RFLP and FISH are covered with respect to how they are applied to study the composition, diversity and dynamics of insect gut symbiotic microbiota. We then focus on the various ＇ omics＇ techniques. The metagenome analysis together with the recent advancements in next-generation sequencing will provide enormous sequencing information, allowing in-depth microbial diversity analysis and modeling of pathways for biological processes such as biomass degradation. The metagenome sequencing will also enable the study of system dynamics and gene expression with metatranscriptome and metaproteome methods. The integration of different ＇omics＇ level data will allow us to understand how insect gut works as a system to carry out its functions. The molecular and systems-level understanding will also guide the reverse design of next-generation biorefinery.
