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The proliferation of electronic devices and wireless communication in our daily lives has led to a significant increase in electromagnetic pollution. This issue poses a serious threat to the proper functioning of electronic equipment as well as human health. Therefore, the investigation of materials with superior electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities has garnered growing interest. In this paper, the mechanisms of EMI shielding were first introduced briefly. It was noted that the development of advanced EMI shielding materials involved adhering to principles such as minimizing reflection loss, enhancing absorption loss, and incorporating multiple internal reflections. The construction and shielding properties of traditional EMI shielding materials were introduced. Unlike metal materials with high densities and reflection loss, lightweight conductive polymer composites (CPCs) have been the most promising EMI shielding materials. Meanwhile, carbon‐based nanofillers such as carbon nanotubes and graphene nanosheets, along with two‐dimensional transition metal carbonitrides MXenes Ti3C2Tx, have emerged as the most promising and versatile conductive nanofillers for CPCs. The EMI shielding performance and loss mechanism of CPCs with homogeneous structure, segregated structure, laminated structure, and porous structure were introduced in detail. It was noted that the EMI shielding performance could be significantly improved by incorporating multiple structures into the same CPCs, such as a rational combination of segregated and porous structures. Finally, the challenges and development trends of CPCs for EMI shielding applications were discussed. Highlights: Mechanisms of EMI shielding were introduced from aspect of energy dissipation.Structure–property of traditional EMI shielding materials was described.EMI shielding performance of CPCs with different structures was summarized.Future challenges and growing trends of CPCs for EMI shielding were discussed.Absorption‐dominated loss and multiple structure design were emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the relentless pursuit of developing high-performance, stable and environmentally friendly materials for X-ray detection, we present a new class of Bi-based hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites. An X-ray detector based on a new zero-dimensional (0D) triiodide-induced lead-free hybrid perovskite, (DPA)2BiI9 (DPA = C5H16N22+), has been developed demonstrating outstanding detection performance, including high X-ray sensitivity (20 570 μC Gyair−1 cm−2), low detectable dose rate (0.98 nGyair s−1), fast response time (154/162 ns) and excellent long-term stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-filled thin-walled helical corrugated steel tubes (CFCST) are innovative composite members suitable for rehabilitating or reconstructing piers/columns under earthquake or long-term corrosion damage. The strength and ductility of the concrete can be effectively improved by the lateral confinement of the thin-walled corrugated steel tube (CST). However, for such a member, the previously proposed monotonic model is not applicable to large helical angles, and no existing cyclic model can be directly employed. Hence, some key indicators, including the nominal hoop stress, equivalent confining stress, peak stress, peak strain, plastic strain, and stress deterioration, are examined based on an enlarged experimental database and the working mechanism of CFCST. Subsequently, a systematic constitutive model with an updated monotonic stress–strain relationship and rational unloading/reloading rules was developed for the CST-confined concrete in this study. The accuracy of the proposed model was validated by the experimental results of both the monotonic and cyclic responses of CST-confined concrete specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas and the second highest contributor to global warming. CH4 emissions are still growing at an alarmingly high pace. To limit global warming to 1.5 °C, one of the most effective strategies is to reduce rapidly the CH4 emissions by developing large‐scale methane removal methods. The purpose of this perspective paper is threefold. (1) To highlight the technology gap dealing with low concentration CH4 (at many emission sources and in the atmosphere). (2) To analyze the challenges and prospects of solar‐driven gas phase advanced oxidation processes for CH4 removal. And (3) to propose some ideas, which may help to develop solar‐driven gas phase advanced oxidation processes and make them deployable at a climate significant scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White-light emission (WLE) materials based on organic–inorganic hybrid lead halides have drawn considerable attention because of their applications in light-emission equipment. Despite considerable efforts, there is still a lack of two-dimensional (2D) lead-chlorine white-light emitting halides with high photoluminescence quantum efficiency (PLQE). Herein, we report the preparation of a new 2D layered hybrid halide, [DTHPE]Pb4Cl10, which exhibits bright wide-band WLE, a high PLQE of 8.86% and high anti-water stability. To the best of our knowledge, the PLQE of [DTHPE]Pb4Cl10 exceeds that of most 2D lead chlorides. Furthermore, the emission intensity is unchanged even after continuous immersion in water for 7 days. Photoluminescence measurements indicate that the WLE originates from self-trapped excitons. [DTHPE]Pb4Cl10 is a promising visible-blind UV hybrid halide owing to its excellent photoelectric response. [DTHPE]Pb4Cl10 is an effective white-light emitting material for display applications. The coexistence of a high performance visible-blind UV response and high efficiency white-light emission provides attractive possibilities for potential applications in the multifunctional photoelectronic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of semiconductors as photoelectrochemical electrodes and photocatalysts has been studied extensively over the last few decades; however, it is challenging to design one single material meeting a wide range of requirements for applications such as photostability, wide light absorbance and earth abundance. In this study, we started with earth-abundant materials, namely TiO2, Cu2O and carbon, to design a nanocomposite with TiO2 nanofibers (NFs) and Cu2O nanocubes (NCs) connected by carbon nanowires (NWs). The nanocomposite (C/TiO2/Cu2O) demonstrated excellent photo(electro)activity under simulated visible light as well as enhanced durability. Morphologies imaged by electron microscopes showed that TiO2 NFs and Cu2O NCs were well connected, while thin and long carbon NWs were present throughout the samples and connected the NFs and NCs to form a compact composite. Electrochemical analysis revealed that the band alignment between TiO2 and Cu2O was typical for a type-II heterojunction, which is favourable for the separation of photogenerated charge carriers. Moreover, carbon NWs act as bridges, thus facilitating more efficient charge transfer. Overall, this research showed the design and preparation of a nanostructured composite with improved charge transfer and photostability for solar photoelectrochemical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid organic–inorganic lead halide perovskites (HOIPs) possess significant photoelectric characteristics for solar energy conversion, but the presence of lead causes issues for eco-friendly applications. Halide double perovskites represent a green option for application in the optoelectronic field, especially X-ray detection systems. Despite the great efforts, the exploration of large-size lead-free iodide-based hybrid double perovskite single crystals for X-ray detection has been unsuccessful. Herein, we demonstrate that a large single crystal of the 2D (two-dimensional) semiconducting perovskite (C6H16N2)2CuBiI8·0.5H2O can serve as an X-ray detection candidate. A perovskite crystal, as large as 35 × 31 × 3 mm3, was grown using a low-cost, simple cooling solution approach. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a centimeter-sized 2D BiCu iodide double perovskite single crystal has been used for X-ray detection. The perovskite crystal exhibited unique properties for X-ray detection, such as a significant X-ray absorption coefficient, considerable μτ product, and low trap density. Moreover, X-ray detection with a sensitivity of 5.51 μC Gyair−1 cm−2 was achieved based on a single crystal. This work opens new ways to explore specially designed organic cations for stabilizing 2D HOIPs that show great potential in optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The progression of esophagus cancer (EC) is associated with the alterative expressions of multiple microRNAs (miRs). MiR-1-3p is reported to inhibit the development of EC by targeting TAGLN2. Quercetin (Que) is a natural compound capable of antagonizing esophagus carcinoma (EC). In the current study, the role of miR-1-3p/TAGLN2 axis in the anti-EC function of Que was explored. Human EC cell lines KYSE-510 and TE-7 were treated with Que. Then the effects of Que on the growth and metastasis of EC cells, and on the activity of miR-1-3p/TAGLN2 axis were detected. The interaction between Que and miR-1-3p axis was further assessed by inhibiting miR-1-3p level in EC cells. The results showed that the treatment of Que impaired the growth and induced cell apoptosis in EC cells. The invasive ability of EC cells was also suppressed by Que. At molecular level, the expression of miR-1-3p was induced, while the expression of TAGLN2 was suppressed by Que. Moreover, the anti-EC effects of Que were blocked by miR-1-3p inhibition, which was represented by the restored growth and invasion of EC cells. Collectively, the current study demonstrated that Que exerted inhibitory effects on EC cells by inducing miR-1-3p. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2021.1972125 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multifunctional polymer-based composites greatly benefited from the exceptional properties of three-dimensional (3D) porous carbon foams (CFs), which exhibited remarkable electrical and thermal conductivities, as well as offered versatile design possibilities. The template-based strategies enabled the convenient prediction and precise regulation of porous foam by templating carbon nanomaterials into well-organized porous structures, surpassing the limitations of the template-free approaches. The template-based strategies have been proven effective methods to control the elaborated structures of carbon nanomaterials, exhibiting their unique advantages. This review mainly summarized the latest research progress of templating strategies in constructing 3D porous CFs and their polymer composites from four aspects: hard template (including metal template and water-soluble particle template), soft template (including porous polymer sponge, etchable polymer microsphere, expandable polymer microsphere, and porous biomass sponge), ice template (including random, unidirectional, and bi-directional freeze-drying), and emulsion template. The influences of the construction of porous carbon nanomaterials on functional characteristics such as electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, electromagnetic interference shielding, and piezoresistive sensing properties in polymer-based composites were analyzed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of utilizing template-based strategies for constructing 3D porous CFs and their polymer composites were discussed. [Display omitted] • Template-based strategies surpassed the limitations of template-free methods. • Hard template, soft template, ice template, and emulsion template were summarized. • Soft template including polymer sponge and biomass sponge was discussed. • Influences of porous carbon foams on functional properties of polymers were analyzed. • The challenges and prospects of template-based strategies were summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CFR PAC achieved a COD removal percentage of 97.8%. • CFRs and PAC benefited wastewater treatment under tetracycline-stressed conditions. • PAC enhanced tetracycline biodegradation rather than adsorption. • The abundance of Desulfomicrobium was highly correlated with tetracycline removal. Tetracycline exerts an inhibitory effect on anaerobic digestion, inducing stressed microbial activities and even system failure. Continuous-flow reactors (CFRs) and sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) were employed along with the dosage of powdered activated carbon (PAC) to enhance tetracycline removal during anaerobic digestion of complex organic compounds. PAC increased the maximum methane production rate by 15.6% (CFRs) and 13.8% (SBRs), and tetracycline biodegradation by 24.4% (CFRs) and 19.2% (SBRs). CFRs showed higher tetracycline removal and methane production rates than SBRs. Geobacter was enriched in CFRs, where Methanothrix was enriched with the addition of PAC. Desulfomicrobium harbored abundant propionate degradation-related genes, significantly correlating with tetracycline removal. The genes encoding carbon dioxide reduction in Methanothrix along with the detection of Geobacter might indicate direct interspecies electron transfer for methanogenesis in CFRs and PAC-added reactors. The study offers new insights into anaerobic digestion under tetracycline-stressed conditions and strategies for optimizing tetracycline removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray detection plays an extremely significant function in medical diagnosis, nondestructive testing, safety testing, scientific research, environmental monitoring and other practical applications. However, conventional inorganic semiconductors, such as amorphous selenium, crystalline Si and pure Ge present almost uncontrollable bandgaps and require quite sophisticated fabrication techniques despite their outstanding performance. As developing materials for direct conversion X-ray detection, halide perovskite semiconductors exhibit remarkable properties with high sensitivity. In this review, we summarize the optoelectronic performance of different dimensional perovskites in X-ray detection and their application in X-ray imaging for perovskite-based X-ray detectors including single crystals, films and wafers. This review aims to preliminarily highlight the relationship between structural dimensionality and X-ray detection properties, which should provide valuable suggestions for researchers to rationally design high-performance halide perovskite X-ray photodetectors through crystal engineering at the molecular level in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to the three-dimensional (3D) perovskite materials, the Ruddlesden–Popper (R–P) type two-dimensional (2D) organic–inorganic metal halide perovskites have indicated specific unique physical properties that include moisture-stable behaviours, exciton effects, and quantum confinements, making it a solid and potential candidate for optoelectronic applications. Nonetheless, while specific candidates have exhibited visible-blind ultraviolet (UV) photoelectric response, most R–P type 2D materials have been known to be photosensitive to visible light. In this study, an R–P type 2D lead bromide hybrid perovskite (C8H11FN)2PbBr4, (1, where C8H10FN is 4-fluorophenethylamine) has been analyzed, which contained both inorganic frameworks and organic cations. Moreover, 1 exhibits a relatively wide optical bandgap of 3.30 eV, corresponding to that of the Br-based 2D R–P perovskites expected to exhibit selective photoresponse for the UV light. It is pertinent to note that the photodetectors based on the crystal of 1 exhibit spectral selective photoresponse for UV light with high detectivity up to ∼1.6 × 1011 Jones. Moreover, the trap density of 1 is estimated to be 1.34 × 1011 cm−3; the trap density of 1 was almost equal to that obtained in the high-quality 3D CH3NH3PbBr3 single crystals. Besides, under external environment, 1 illustrated excellent stability. The figures of merit for its photoconductivity make 1 a potential candidate for the visible-blind UV photodetection. This discovery opens up new vistas for the further development of optoelectronic devices based on 2D R–P organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corrugated steel tube (CST) confined reinforced concrete (RC) sections, which consists of galvanized corrugated steel tubes infilled with concrete and steel reinforcements, provide a solution for their practical application in the outdoor and offshore corrosive environment. To investigate their compression-bending, cross-sectional behavior, a fiber model is established by treating it as a confined reinforced concrete section. The model considers the nonuniformity of concrete confinement pressure across the cross-sectional depth and tensile axial-strain concentration at the lock seam. The ultimate strength and lateral deflection of the CST confined RC sections are investigated. Further in-depth analyses are carried out to study the influence of the eccentricity ratio, geometric parameters (thickness, helical angle and corrugation profile of tubes, and reinforcing bars ratio), as well as materials strength (concrete and tube). Finally, a design method is proposed to predict the compression-bending strength of CST-confined RC sections, and its precision is verified by comparison with tests and numerical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural behaviour of S960 ultra-high strength steel (UHSS) welded I-section beam–columns is studied in the present paper. Nonlinear finite element (FE) models were first created and validated against relevant test results collected from the literature; the models were then used to carry out parametric studies to obtain additional FE data over an extensive spectrum of cross-section dimensions, member lengths and loading combinations. Given the lack of existing design rules for S960 UHSS structures, the codified beam–column interaction curves prescribed in the current European (EC3) and American (AISC 360) design specifications for lower strength steel members, were assessed for their applicability to the studied S960 UHSS non-slender welded I-section members, utilizing the generated numerical data. It was found that EC3 yielded conservative failure load predictions for Class 1 and 2 S960 UHSS welded I-section beam–columns buckling about either principal axis; similar results were found for Class 3 members under combined compression and strong-axis bending, with the mean FE to predicted failure load ratio being 1.29, the corresponding COV being 0.12, but rather conservative strength predictions arose for Class 3 members under combined compression and weak-axis bending, with the mean FE to predicted failure load ratio being 1.50. AISC 360 led to overall accurate and consistent failure load predictions for S960 UHSS non-slender welded I-section beam–columns, but resulted in some unconservative strength predictions for members under combined compression and weak-axis bending. New design proposals, adopting the format of EC3 design interaction curve, but with more accurate compression and bending end points, interaction factors and buckling reduction factors determined from the continuous strength method (CSM), were proposed and shown to lead to improved design accuracy. • The structural behaviour of S960 UHSS non-slender welded I-section beam–columns is studied. • FE models are developed and validated against test results and then used to perform parametric studies. • The current design rules are assessed for their applicability to S960 UHSS non-slender welded I-section beam–columns. • A CSM-based design approach is proposed and shown to lead to improved design accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Operational mode and powdered activated carbon (PAC) are key factors facilitating microbial syntrophy and interspecies electron transfer during anaerobic digestion, consequently benefiting process stability and efficient methanogenesis. In this study, continuous-flow reactor (CFR) and sequencing batch reactor (SBR), with and without the addition of PAC, respectively, were operated to examine their effects on system performance and methanogenic activity. Based on the cycle-test result, the PAC-amended CFR (CFR PAC) recorded both the highest methane yield (690.1 mL/L) and the maximum CH 4 production rate (28.8 mL/(L·h)), while SBRs exhibited slow methanogenic rates. However, activity assays indicated that SBRs were beneficial for organics removal in batch experiments fed with peptone. Taxonomic and functional analysis confirmed that CFRs were optimal for proliferating oligotrophs (e.g., Geobacter) and SBRs were more suitable for copiotrophs (e.g., Desulfobulbus). Metagenomic analysis revealed that CFRs had efficient acetate metabolic pathways from propionate and ethanol, whereas SBRs did not, resulting in the buildup of propionate. Furthermore, Methanobacterium and Methanothrix were acclimated to the different operational conditions, while acetoclastic Methanosarcina and hydrogenotrophic Methanolinea were acclimated in SBRs (5.1–13.4%) and CFRs (0.3–1.7%), respectively. This study confirmed the enhancement of microbial syntrophy by the addition of PAC as well as the acclimation of electroactive bacteria (e.g., Geobacter) with complex organic substances. [Display omitted] • CFRs outperformed SBRs in substrate biodegradation and methanogenic activity. • The operational mode affected the metabolism of peptone and glucose differently. • Only CFRs had acetate metabolic pathways from propionate and ethanol by Geobacter. • PAC facilitated the acclimation of Methanothrix and Methanolinea in CFRs. • PAC promoted acetoclastic methanogenesis via the homoacetogenic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 4 CSSC arches were tested under three-point loading. • Load-displacement curve and composite effect were analyzed to examine the work mechanism. • FEM was developed and the influence of parameters on the axial compressive capacity were analyzed. • Calculation methods were proposed to predict the axial compressive capacity. A new type of corrugated steel-shotcrete composite (CSSC) arch is proposed, which possesses the advantages of both high load-bearing capacity and ease of construction. Thus it is particularly suitable for bridges, culverts, shafts, and other projects. In this study, the static behavior of the CSSC arch under three-point loading was investigated experimentally and numerically. Four specimens with different rise-span ratios (1/2, 1/8), different spans (3 m, 6 m), and different locations of shotcrete lining (shotcrete outer lining, shotcrete inner lining) were tested. The test results show that the load-bearing capacity and initial stiffness of the CSSC arch could reach 6.8 times and 13.9 times that of the corrugated steel (CS) arch, respectively. When the load was less than 0.4 times the load-bearing capacity of the specimens, CS and shotcrete worked together. After that, the composite effect between CS and shotcrete was weakened. The ductility of the shotcrete outer lining CSSC arch is better than that of the shotcrete inner lining CSSC arch. A finite element model (FEM) was developed to investigate the influences of key parameters on the load-bearing capacity, including the thickness of materials, the strength of materials, the rise-span ratios and spans. Furthermore, calculation methods were proposed to predict the axial compressive capacity of the CSSC arch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filamentous fungal pathogens secrete effectors that modulate host immunity and facilitate infection. Fusarium graminearum is an important plant pathogen responsible for various devastating diseases. However, little is known about the function of effector proteins secreted by F. graminearum. Herein, we identified several effector candidates in the F. graminearum secretome. Among them, the secreted ribonuclease Fg12 was highly upregulated during the early stages of F. graminearum infection in soybean; its deletion compromised the virulence of F. graminearum. Transient expression of Fg12 in Nicotiana benthamiana induced cell death in a light‐dependent manner. Fg12 possessed ribonuclease (RNase) activity, degrading total RNA. The enzymatic activity of Fg12 was required for its cell death‐promoting effects. Importantly, the ability of Fg12 to induce cell death was independent of BAK1/SOBIR1, and treatment of soybean with recombinant Fg12 protein induced resistance to various pathogens, including F. graminearum and Phytophthora sojae. Overall, our results provide evidence that RNase effectors not only contribute to pathogen virulence but also induce plant cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite hybrids of lead organometal halides, (e. g., CH3NH3PbX3, X=Cl, Br, I) have gained wide attention since their spectacular progress on optoelectronic technologies in recent years. However, it still remains the fundamental problem, namely, the existence of the toxic, bioaccumulative, polluting element Pb and the instability of humidity. In particular, the use of toxic Pb severely limits the broad applications and commercialization of lead‐containing optoelectronic devices, and finding an alternative that preserves the unique optoelectronic properties of the lead halide perovskite is highly urgent. Bi3+ exhibits isoelectronic behavior similar to that of Pb2+ in terms of ion radius and electronegativity, which is expected as an environmentally friendly alternative for lead. However, 1D Bi‐based hybrid organic‐inorganic light‐absorbing materials with pyridinium are not numerous. Although great progress has been made, the research on photoresponse behavior are still rarely reported. Here, we present a lead‐free organic‐inorganic hybrid absorber with photoconductive response, (C5H7N2)BiI4 (1, C5H7N2+ is 2‐aminopyridinium), which displays a narrow optical bandgap of ∼1.8 eV. Equally importantly, 1 not only features highly applicable properties, but is also able to absorb across most of the UV/Vis region of the solar spectrum. Furthermore, high‐quality single crystal with sizes up to 7×6×4 mm3 was successfully grown. In addition, 1 exhibited extremely low dark current (2×10−11 A) at the bias of 10 V, which indicates that the indicator of 1 is an order of magnitude lower than other reported perovskite photodetectors. Moreover, photocurrent on/off switches is faster (∼670 ms), indicating that 1 can be a promising photosensitive switch. These intriguing properties, namely the lead‐free composition, a small band gap, and the fast photoconductive response, suggest promising applications in the field of optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although having strong influences on adolescents' optimal development, mother‐adolescent closeness is greatly challenged in early adolescence. Mindful parenting may be a protective factor for relational adjustment to early adolescence, but its connection with closeness within the mother‐adolescent dyad has not been adequately examined in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the effects of how mindful parenting on the day‐to‐day mother‐adolescent relationship dynamics, evaluating the relations between mindful parenting and mother‐adolescent closeness and the mediating role of adolescent self‐disclosure. A total of 76 Chinese mother–adolescent dyads completed a baseline measure of mindful parenting and 14‐day measures of adolescent‐report self‐disclosure, mother‐perceived closeness, and adolescent‐perceived closeness. Mindful parenting significantly predicted both mother‐perceived and adolescent‐perceived closeness, with adolescent self‐disclosure serving as a mediator. Adolescent self‐disclosure predicted higher mother‐adolescent closeness on the same day, but such effects did not carry over to the next day. Our findings provided evidence supporting mindful parenting as a resource for facilitating mother‐adolescent closeness in early adolescence. This investigation also encouraged future studies to employ more intensive ambulatory assessments to clarify the daily process of how mindful parenting shapes mother‐adolescent relationship dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes two types of semi-precast reinforced-concrete (RC) beams with steel connections embedded at each end. The proposed beams are designed to address the problems of complex detailing and construction difficulties between concrete-filled steel tubular columns and conventional RC beams. The proposed beams are composed of two steel I-beams partially embedded into the end sections of the RC beams. Full-scale experiments were carried out on the two proposed beams and a reference conventional RC beam to study the failure mode, crack propagation and flexural and shear strengths. Results indicated that the flexural strength of the proposed beams was well predicted by the current design codes on concrete structures including GB 50010, ACI 318-11 and BS EN 1992-1-1 (Eurocode 2). To further examine the shear behaviour of proposed beams, six experiments with two different shear span-to-depth ratios were conducted. The influence of the embedded steel connections on the shear behaviour was investigated and a correction coefficient for the shear span-to-depth ratio was proposed. Based on the current design codes on concrete structures, modified equations for calculating the shear strength were proposed. Finite-element methodology was also adopted to simulate the structural behaviour of the embedded steel connections under combined bending and shear force. Based on numerical findings, design methods for the embedded steel connections were recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To realize the effective conversion of renewable energy through water decomposition, efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are essential. In this article, PBA@POM was successfully prepared with a Prussian blue analogue (PBA) as the initial structure. A facile hydrothermal process is reported for obtaining PBA@POM by etching the cubic PBA with a strong Brønsted acid, H3PMo12O40 (HPMo). The hollow cube structure not only exposes more active sites but also promotes electron transport, which results in excellent electrocatalytic activity for the OER. Compared with the PBA, which initially simply adhered to POM, the optimum PBA@POM hybrids display remarkably enhanced OER catalytic activity, with an almost constant overpotential of 440 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope (23.45 mV dec−1). The facilely prepared PBA@POM with good electrochemical activity and stability promises great potential for the OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Influence of FRA on mechanical properties of RAC with different CRA contents. • Prediction model for elastic modulus of RAC using FRA and CRA. • Prediction model for splitting tensile strength of RAC with FRA and CRA. This study aims to develop models for the elastic modulus (E c) and splitting tensile strength (f tsp) of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) incorporating coarse recycled aggregate (CRA) and fine recycled aggregate (FRA). An experiment was performed on 15 groups of RAC, using one type of CRA and two types of FRAs. Meanwhile, CRA replacement ratios (r CRA) of 0, 50, and 100% were used, while for each r CRA , three replacement ratios of each FRA (0, 50, and 100%) were investigated. Furthermore, the slump value, compressive strength, E c , and f tsp were tested and analyzed. Based on the results, new models accounting for the influence of recycled aggregate were developed and validated using a database of test data. The results showed that: (1) the influence of FRA on the tested properties is independent of the CRA content, (2) the proposed models can effectively predict the E c and f tsp of RAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Residual strengths of concrete containing both coarse and fine RCAs after 20–800 °C exposure and under two cooling methods. • Influence of temperature on residual strengths of RAC under two cooling methods. • Fine RCA content (0, 50% and 100%) effect on residual strengths of RAC subjected to two cooling methods. • Effects of natural and water cooling on residual strengths of RAC after exposure. Abstract In this study, the compressive and splitting tensile strengths of concrete containing both coarse and fine recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) were measured after subjected to elevated temperatures from 20 to 800 °C and two cooling regimes (natural and water cooling). Three concretes were produced with 100% coarse RCA and different replacements of fine RCA (0, 50% and 100%). Experimental results indicate that the compressive and splitting tensile strength of all concretes decline with increasing temperature irrespective of cooling methods. Concrete having 100% fine RCA content presents higher normalized residual compressive strength than concrete containing 0% and 50% fine RCA under two cooling regimes. Influence of fine RCA replacement level on normalized residual splitting tensile strength after exposure is found to be fluctuant. Data from experimental results also show that strength deterioration is more severe for concrete samples under water cooling compared to that under natural cooling, especially at temperatures of 200 and 400 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic–organic hybrid perovskites, especially two‐dimensional (2D) layered halide perovskites, have attracted significant attention due to their unique structures and attractive optoelectronic properties, which open up a great opportunity for next‐generation photosensitive devices. Herein, we report a new 2D bilayered inorganic–organic hybrid perovskite, (C6H13NH3)2(NH2CHNH2)Pb2I7 (HFA, where C6H13NH3+ is hexylaminium and NH2CHNH2+ is formamidinium), which exhibits a remarkable photoresponse under broadband light illumination. Structural characterizations demonstrate that the 2D perovskite structure of HFA is constructed by alternant stacking of inorganic lead iodide bilayered sheets and organic hexylaminium layers. Optical absorbance measurements combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that HFA is a direct band gap semiconductor with a narrow band gap (Eg) of ≈2.02 eV. Based on these findings, photodetectors based on HFA crystal wafer are fabricated, which exhibit fascinating optoelectronic properties including large on/off current ratios (over 103), fast response speeds (τrise=310 μs and τdecay=520 μs) and high responsivity (≈0.95 mA W−1). This work will contribute to the design and development of new two‐dimensional bilayer inorganic–organic hybrid perovskites for high‐performance photosensitive devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Phytophthora pathogens secrete many effector proteins to manipulate host innate immunity. PsAvh238 is a Phytophthora sojae N‐terminal Arg‐X‐Leu‐Arg (RXLR) effector, which evolved to escape host recognition by mutating one nucleotide while retaining plant immunity‐suppressing activity to enhance infection. However, the molecular basis of the PsAvh238 virulence function remains largely enigmatic.By using coimmunoprecipitation and liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis, we identified the 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate synthase (ACS) isoforms, the key enzymes in ethylene (ET) biosynthesis, as a host target of PsAvh238.We show that PsAvh238 interacts with soybean ACSs (GmACSs) in vivo and in vitro. By destabilizing Type2 GmACSs, PsAvh238 suppresses Type2 ACS‐catalyzed ET biosynthesis and facilitates Phytophthora infection. Silencing of Type2 GmACSs, and inhibition of ET biosynthesis or signaling, increase soybean susceptibility to P. sojae infection, supporting a role for Type2 GmACSs and ET in plant immunity against P. sojae. Moreover, wild‐type P. sojae but not the PsAvh238‐disrupted mutants, inhibits ET induction and promotes P. sojae infection in soybean.Our results highlight the ET biosynthesis pathway as an essential part in plant immunity against P. sojae and a direct effector target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A new kind of composite member with an outer galvanized corrugated steel tube proposed in this paper. • Confinement mechanism of CFCSTs investigated via theoretical analysis and experimental research. • Steel ratio and confinement index, can characterize the behaviour of CFCSTs. • Design method for CFCSTs with the consideration of corrugation. Abstract Concrete-filled tubular (CFT) structures are exposed to increasingly complex environments with ever-broadening applications. Anticorrosion maintenance is generally difficult and expensive for established structures exposed to the air. Due to the superior corrosion resistance and the high lateral stiffness of the corrugated steel pipe (CSP), concrete-filled corrugated steel tube (CFCST) is proposed which has the similar working mechanism with the tube confined concrete columns. Such innovative composite member has advantages such as free of maintenance, ease of construction, high load-bearing capacity, good ductility and strong interlocking effect between CSP and concrete. In order to verify the load bearing reliability of concrete-filled corrugated steel tube (CFCST), twenty-one short columns including twelve CFCSTs were tested under axial compression. It was found that the CFCST is a tube confined concrete member and behaves slightly better than tubed-concrete columns. The strain and stress of CSP are discussed in detail to clarify the confinement effect. As well, solid nonlinear finite element models (FEM) were established to investigate the influence of key factors including geometries of CSP and strength of materials, which were summarized in the confinement index. Based on early studies on steel tube confined concrete and the parameter analysis in this paper, a suitable design method to predict the ultimate axial compressive load capacity for CFCST columns is proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In composite component, confined concrete is widely used in civil engineering due to its excellent performance, such as high compressive strength and good plasticity. In this study, an actively-confined concrete model is developed using current published models and test data, the stress-strain behavior of concrete in active confinement and fiber-reinforced polymer confinement are compared, then the influence of loading path on concrete is quantified. An analytical model is developed to predict the mechanical behavior of confined concrete columns, and validated using previously published test results. The analytical model is found to provide satisfactory predictions in short concrete columns confined by FRP or steel tubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, thirty-six short columns with different diameters (150 mm ≤ d ≤ 460 mm) and steel ratios (4.0% ≤ α ≤ 10.0%) were tested to failure to investigate the size effect of circular concrete-filled steel tubular short columns subjected to axial compression. Size effects on the peak axial stress, peak axial strain, composite elastic modulus, and ductility coefficient were studied. The experimental results showed that the peak axial stress, peak axial strain and ductility coefficient of the specimens tended to decrease with the increase in the column diameter. The values of the composite elastic modulus remained almost constant when the diameter of the specimens increased, indicating that size effect on the composite elastic modulus was not obvious. Meanwhile, size effect on the peak axial stress was influenced by the steel ratio in the range of 4–10%. Furthermore, the size effect tended to decrease as the steel ratio increased. By comparing with the current codes, a reduction coefficient was introduced to consider the size effect of concrete core. Based on the reduction coefficient, the size effect of the concrete core inside the steel tube is found to be weaker compared with that of the unconfined concrete columns because of the confinement effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was carried out on the complete compressive stress-strain curves of concrete made with coarse recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) after exposure to temperatures of 20-800°C. In total, 75 prism specimens of five different compositions were made with replacement percentages of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% coarse RCA. Specimens were exposed to preset temperatures for 3 h in separate batches and were tested 1 month after heating. The residual compressive properties, including compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, peak strain and complete compressive stress-strain curves, were obtained from the tests. The experimental results demonstrate that both the compressive strength and modulus of elasticity of coarse RCA concrete decrease continuously with increasing temperature, whereas the peak strain increases rapidly. The replacement percentage was found to have insignificant influence on the relative deterioration of exposed coarse RCA concrete compared with unexposed concrete. A stress-strain model was developed for predicting the compressive stress-strain relationship of coarse RCA concrete after exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) for the fill in concrete filled steel tube (CFST) members (RACFST members) is proposed as a practical structural application. An experimental study of RACFST members with normal-strength concrete under combined loading is summarized. Forty-eight columns and three beams in groups of 3 identical specimens were tested to failure. Study parameters included recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) replacement percentage, source of RCA, eccentricity, slenderness, and the steel to concrete area ratio. Experimental results are consistent with less than 3% scatter within each group. The maximum compressive load of the columns decreased modestly with increasing substitution level of RCA (up to 11.2%), and the structural effects of the recycled aggregate replacement on load capacity and initial stiffness are smaller than the corresponding changes in material properties. The source of RCA had little effect on the behavior of RACFST under combined loading for this test program, and the similar size grading and index of crushing obtained in the aggregates may have provided this benefit. These observations support the use of RACFST in structural engineering. Current CFST design provisions are compared to the RACFST test results, and the design recommendations for RACFSTs are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the experimental and numerical studies of concrete-filled cold-formed elliptical hollow sections with varying aspect ratios subjected to axial compression load. Twenty one stub columns were tested to investigate the fundamental behaviours of these elliptical concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns. The axial load versus displacement curves, longitudinal and transverse strains in steel tube and failure modes were obtained and discussed. A constitutive model for concrete in the elliptical CFST columns was proposed. Finite element (FE) models were developed and validated against the test results. Parametric studies were carried out to identify the influence of key parameters on the load-bearing capacity. Key parameters included aspect ratio, steel tube to concrete area ratio, yield strength of steel and compressive strength of concrete. Finally, the applicability of relevant design methods to elliptical CFST columns was assessed on the basis of the test and the FE results of this research and other related studies. Results indicated that the design method recommended in the Chinese Standard (GB50936-2014), and the design method for circular CFST columns in EC4 were found to generate accurate predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reinforced concrete-filled galvanized corrugated steel tube, named reinforced CFCST, is an innovative composite member commonly used in seismically active regions and corrosive environments. The seismic behaviour of reinforced CFCST under quasi-static tests had been performed in the past. However, a robust numerical model to simulate the seismic behaviour of reinforced CFCST has not been conducted. This paper proposes a finite element (FE) model capable of simulating the seismic behaviour of reinforced CFCST. The responses of the FE model, in terms of failure modes, hysteretic curves, and local strain distributions, are compared with the corresponding experimental results. Based on the validated FE model, detailed parametric studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of axial compression ratio, length-to-diameter ratio, diameter-to-thickness ratio, steel bar ratio, and material strengths. Finally, simplified design equations capable of predicting the nominal hoop stresses of the corrugated steel tube (CST) and the compression-bending strength of reinforced CFCST are proposed. • A robust finite element model to simulate the seismic behaviour of RCFCST under cyclic lateral load; • The accuracy of FE model validated by the corresponding experimental results; • Effects of key parameters affecting the seismic behaviour of RCFCST are analyzed; • Theoretical and simplified equations for compression-bending bearing capacity are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes an experimental programme and theoretical analysis of the long-term behaviour of composite slabs prepared with recycled aggregate concrete (RAC). The test programme consisted of four full-scale slab samples of thickness 120 mm and 180 mm, with two specimens subjected to sustained loads and two unloaded companion samples. All the specimens were subjected to shrinkage effects and measured in a simply supported static configuration over a period of 268 d. A non-linear numerical model was developed to account for the time-dependent behaviour of the composite slabs by including the effects of non-uniform shrinkage, creep and concrete cracking. The model was validated against the test results. A parametric study was then carried out to evaluate the influence of time effects on the long-term deflections of RAC composite slabs. A design approach to be used for routine design of RAC composite slabs was developed and validated through a comparison of calculated values and experimental measurements. Based on the experimental data collected as part of this study, it was found that both the numerical model and the proposed design approach estimated well the time-dependent deflections of RAC composite slabs by considering the influence of the non-uniform shrinkage profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Available creep models for recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) only consider the effect of residual mortar content ( C RM ). This paper highlighted how the creep of RAC was also influenced by the property of the residual mortar which highly depended on the water-to-cement ratio of the source concrete ( w or / c or ) and how the increase in creep which was induced by the recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) varied with the water-to-cement ratio of the resulting concrete ( w / c ). Forty RAC specimens with the w or / c or ratios and the w / c ratios varying between 0.3 and 0.6 were prepared and tested up to 8 months. It was found that the influence of the RCA on the creep deformation of RAC was more pronounced for RAC with lower value of w / c or using RCA from source concrete with higher w or / c or ratio. Finally, a ‘water-to-cement ratio factor’ was introduced to the available creep model to account for these influences. Benchmarking analysis against available experimental data indicated that, the newly proposed model had better accuracy in predicting creep of RAC, especially for RAC with aggregates obtained from high-strength concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frontispiece: Solar Driven Gas Phase Advanced Oxidation Processes for Methane Removal - Challenges and Perspectives Keywords: advanced oxidation process; chlorine; methane oxidation; ozone; photocatalysis; photoreactor EN advanced oxidation process chlorine methane oxidation ozone photocatalysis photoreactor 1 1 1 11/21/22 20221116 NES 221116 Methane (CH SB 4 sb ) is a potent greenhouse gas. Advanced oxidation process, chlorine, methane oxidation, ozone, photocatalysis, photoreactor. [Extracted from the article]

Encasing recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) inside steel tubes provides a solution to use RAC in vertical-load bearing members. Such composite members are referred to as recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tubular (RACFST) columns. Previous researches have focused on RACFST elements with concrete strength of 30 MPa. This paper intends to provide new experimental data for the benchmarking of numerical models using RAC with compressive strength of 50 MPa. Twenty-one RACFST specimens with different aggregate replacement ratios were prepared for the tests. The adequacy of using available RAC concrete models to predict the long-term responses of the RACFST specimens was evaluated based on the experimental results. Parametric study was then carried out to evaluate the long-term responses of RACFST members during their whole service life. The accuracy of different algebraic methods that suitable for design calculations was investigated based on the results obtained using the step-by-step procedure. Finally, a finite element model was developed with ABAQUS, which has been validated against measurements of long-term tests on slender RACFST columns. Investigation shows that the incorporation of recycled aggregates can increase the long-term deformation of composite columns by up to 40%. By considering a nil exposed perimeter, the available amplification factors proposed for RAC members can be directly introduced to the Eurocode 2 to well predict the long-term responses of RACFST specimens. The Mean Stress method was recommended for simple design calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a batch of T-shaped concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns, T-shaped steel tube confined concrete (STCC) columns and T-shaped reinforced concrete (RC) counterparts were tested subjected to concentric compressive load or eccentric compressive load. The battlement-shaped bar and tensile bar were developed as stiffeners to delay local buckling in tube wall. The stiffening mechanism, the failure modes of concrete and steel tubes, the strength and ductility of specimens were investigated in detail during the experimental research. A numerical modeling program was developed and verified against the experimental data. The numerical program, which incorporates the effect of the stiffeners on postponing local buckling of the tube and the confinement of the tube on concrete core, was used to carry out comprehensive parametric analysis of influencing factors on the structural behavior of T-shaped CFST columns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-nine stub columns were tested to failure to investigate the compressive behaviour of normal-strength recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tubular (RACFST) stub columns under axial loading. Study parameters included recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) substitution level, source of RCA, compressive strength of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) core and ratio of steel area over concrete area. Experimental results showed that the scatter in the mechanical properties of RACFST stub columns is smaller than that in RACs due to the contribution of steel tubes. The source of RCA had little effect on the compressive behaviour of axially loaded RACFST stub columns within the parameter range adopted in the tested specimens. A reduction of less than 10% was measured in the compressive strength of RACFSTs due to the incorporation of RCA, which is smaller than that for RAC samples in material tests. As part of the work, confinement effects of the steel tubes to the RAC cores during the whole loading process were investigated based on the strain gauge measurements. Model equations were then proposed to predict the longitudinal stress–strain relationships for both steel tubes and RAC cores. Current CFST design provisions are compared with the RACFST stub columns test results, and the design recommendations are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The primary objective of this paper is to investigate the seismic behaviour of concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) arches using incremental dynamic analysis (IDA). A nonlinear elastic–plastic finite element model is developed using OpenSees software and is verified with a shaking table test. Single-record IDA studies indicate that a CFST arch undergoes global dynamic instability when subjected to ground motions of increasing intensity levels. During this process, either dynamic elastic buckling or dynamic elastic–plastic buckling may occur. Dynamic strength, which is defined as the capacity for preventing global dynamic instabilities of CFST arches, is determined with a series of multi-record IDA calculations. A lower bound equation that takes into account the effect of slenderness ratio, axial compression ratio, and included angle is proposed for the prediction of the dynamic strength of CFST arches. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] We observed only low temperature ferromagnetism (LTFM) in Mn-doped ZnO films with the doping concentration of 5at%. [•] Positron annihilation spectroscopy indicates that the zinc vacancies cannot act as the origin of the LTFM in those films. [•] The mechanism of V O-mediated FM is not confirmed in our experiments. [•] It is confirmed by experiments that the LTFM in those films can be interpreted as p–d hybridization from indirect coupling of substitutional Mn2+ ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pure ZnO and Zn0.95Co0.05O films were deposited on sapphire substrates by pulsed-laser deposition. We confirm that the magnetic behavior is intrinsic property of Co-doped ZnO nanocrystalline films. Oxygen vacancies play an important mediation role in Co–Co ferromagnetic coupling. The thermal irreversibility of field-cooling and zero field-cooling magnetizations reveals the presence of superparamagnetic behavior in our films, while no evidence of metallic Co clusters was detected. The origin of the observed superparamagnetism is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-filled thin-walled galvanized corrugated steel tube (CFCST) is an attractive composite member consisting of an external corrugated steel tube (CST) multi-functionally used as a confining tube, an anti-corrosive shell, and a permanent template. In practice, the CSTs with large helical angles may be employed in some projects; their working mechanism may be different from that of CSTs with small helical angles. Therefore, 26 short columns, including 17 CFCSTs with large helical angles, are tested under monotonic and cyclic axial compression. The main experimental variables are the diameter-to-thickness ratios of external CST, loading patterns, and volumetric steel ratios of transverse stirrups. The failure modes, axial load–displacement responses, plastic strains, and stress deteriorations have been discussed carefully. The test results showed that the slippage of lock-seam weakens the combined effect between the CST and core concrete, leading to a relatively lower strength and ductility. The strain and stress properties of CST having a large helical angle are analyzed, and the work mechanism of CFCST has also been examined. Based on the test results and the comparison with existing models, design suggestions are proposed eventually. • Monotonic and Cyclic axial compressive experiments on 26 CFCSTs with large helical angles. • Detailed discussions on failure modes, axial-load versus axial-strain curves, plastic strains and stress deteriorations. • Strain/stress analysis and comparison of CSTs with small and large helical angles. • Feasibility evaluations of two existing models and suggestions for modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining healthy eating habits requires self-control and this process can become unsuccessful in certain stressful situations (e.g., economic scarcity). This study tested whether self-compassion can buffer the negative impacts of economic scarcity on healthy eating behaviors and self-control. In the correlational Study 1 (n = 304) based on self-reports, a mediating effect of self-control between economic scarcity and healthy eating behaviors was found in females but not males, and that self-compassion moderated the direct relationship between economic scarcity and healthy eating behaviors in females. No significant moderated mediation effect was found. In Study 2, female participants (n = 113) completed economic scarcity (ES) (or abundance) and self-compassion (SC) (or writing-control (WC)) manipulations and a food-selection task. The ES + WC group chose more high-calorie food than the economic abundance (EA) + WC group and the ES + SC group, and the EA + SC group also selected more high-calorie food compared with the EA + WC group and the ES + SC group. In Study 3 (n = 136), similar manipulations and a dot-mixed task were used to measure self-control, and the ES + SC group showed higher accuracy than the ES + audio-control (AC) group at a trend level. These findings support the protective role of self-compassion in healthy eating behaviors and self-control impairments resulted from economic scarcity, which offer promise for promoting healthy lifestyles among individuals living in scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Amorphous and crystalline LaLuO3 thin films were grown by PLD. [•] The infrared phonon modes are kept in the crystalline thin film but reduced in the amorphous thin film. [•] The amorphous thin film has different local structure with crystalline thin film. [•] The changes of phonon modes and dielectric constant are closely related to the local structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Square concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs) are gaining increasing usage in modern construction practice, offering improved mechanical properties and increased material efficiency compared with the individual steel and core concrete components. However, the cross-section slenderness of the encasing steel is, although more inflexible than a comparable hollow steel tube, restrained due to local buckling. A number of innovative kinds of reinforcement stiffeners have been put forward particularly for the square CFSTs with slender sections of encasing steel. To investigate the mechanical effect of the reinforcement stiffeners and compare them with traditional ones in practice, four square CFSTs welded with various reinforcement stiffeners and one reference CFST have been tested, and are presented in this paper. The mechanical behaviors such as the resistance, ductility and failure modes investigated during the test were also studied in the theoretical research, which was carried out to predict and further summarize the comprehensive properties of the specimens. A numerical analysis program was written and verified with related scholars’ experimental data, and extensive parametric analysis was conducted to investigate the influencing parameters on mechanical properties. Design recommendation for the cross-section strength has been put forward based on the test results and previous research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The consequences of child maltreatment have drawn increased attention in the West. Evidence has associated such maltreatment with mental health problems, the adult personality disorders, and subsequent criminal behavior. However, little is known about its prevalence and consequences in China, especially the relationship between child maltreatment and criminal behavior. The aims of this study were twofold: (1) to explore the prevalence of self-reported child maltreatment in an incarcerated adult sample in China, and, (2) to examine relationships between child maltreatment and offense types. A retrospective self-reported survey was administered to a sample of 2690 incarcerated adults (2410 male and 280 female) in all eleven jails in Beijing, China. For Aim 1, participants completed a self-reported survey that included Childhood Trauma Questionnaire assessing five types of child maltreatment (emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect and physical neglect). For Aim 2, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and logistic regression were conducted to identify the relationship between child maltreatment and crime types with the subsample of 702 male individuals with the available data from three different jails. The prevalence of child maltreatment in the sample ranged from 16.5% for emotional abuse to 91.2% for physical neglect. Almost 90% of the participants reported more than one form of child maltreatment. Men and women had significantly different rates of physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional neglect. Men reported high levels of physical abuse, whereas women reported high levels of physical neglect. Of the subgroup with the crime type records, childhood physical abuse significantly predicted violent crime, whereas sexual abuse was inversely related to violent crime. This study is the first to report on child maltreatment among a large sample of incarcerated individuals in China. Findings indicate that the prevalence of child maltreatment among this population is extremely high, and that there is a relationship between childhood physical abuse and commitment to jail for violent crimes in adulthood. The data clearly indicate the importance of developing appropriate interventions in order to prevent child maltreatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Five T-shaped concrete-filled steel tube(CFST) column specimens including four stiffened columns and one non-stiffened column and one reinforced concrete (RC) column were fabricated and researched by quasi-static experiment under cyclic loading. Failure modes and hysteretic properties of specimens were investigated. The mechanism of reinforcement stiffeners and the constraining effect provided by T-shaped tube were also studied. Experimental results reveal that: compared with T-shaped RC columns, T-shaped CFST columns have positive effect on failure mode, initial stiffness, bearing capacity and energy dissipation capacity; the reinforcement stiffeners can effectively postpone steel tube's local buckling and restrain separation of steel tube and concrete at concave comers, to guarantee the interaction of steel tube and concrete; due to fully utilization of stiffeners' tension capacity, the tension reinforcement stiffeners' restricting function is more significant than that of serrated-shaped reinforcements; the CFST columns with larger steel ratio have high bearing capacity and better energy dissipation capacity; with the axial compressive ratio varying from 0. 2 to 0.4, the bearing capacity of CFST specimens increases but the ductility decreases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Expansive concrete-filled steel tubes (ECFST) are commonly used in modern building and bridge applications. Despite their popularity, limited attention has been devoted to investigate the time-dependent behaviour of such elements. This paper intends to provide new experimental data for the benchmarking of numerical models. Particular attention is devoted to ECFST elements first loaded at quite early concrete ages, e.g. 5 days after concrete casting, to reflect the construction site practice. Eleven ECFST short columns were subjected to different levels of sustained axial loads applied at different concrete ages. Seven columns were then tested to failure to evaluate the long-term effects on their ultimate capacity. The accuracy of four currently available concrete models, EC2, MC90, AFREM and B3, in predicting the long-term response of ECFST elements was investigated based on the related experimental results. Investigation shows that the assumption of linear creep can apply to ECFST elements with initial concrete compressive stresses up to approximately 80% of the concrete strength, rather than the normally accepted upper limit of 40%–50%. During the service life, confinement does not affect the performance of ECFST elements. Model EC2 is adequate to predict the time-dependent response of ECFST elements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Nine specimens tested under constant axial loading and cyclic lateral loading. • Seismic behaviour evaluation indicators addressed carefully and comparatively. • Strain analysis of CST in the plastic hinge region to examine the work mechanism. • Modified methods for predicting the N - M interaction relationships. Concrete-filled corrugated steel tubular (CFCST) structure is a novel composite member with significant potential serving as an offshore bridge pier or a sub-sea underground column. The anti-corrosive galvanized corrugated steel tube (CST) is versatilely utilized as a peripheral protecting shell, an external restraint material for the concrete, and a permanent formwork. A considerable body of preliminary experimental and numerical work has been conducted on the static performance of CFCST, however the investigations of its seismic behaviour are rather limited. This paper therefore presents experimental investigations on CFCST columns subjected to constant axial load and cyclic load. The designs and fabrications of the test setup are introduced in detail. With the discussion of failure modes, hysteretic curves, ductility, energy dissipation capacity, and stiffness degradation, the seismic behaviour of CFCST are studied comparatively. The test results indicate that the seismic behaviour of CFCST is more competitive than that of conventional RC columns while similar to those of TRC columns. With the increase of axial compression ratio, the lateral load was increased but the deformability was reduced. Both the strength and ductility of CFCST can be improved with the increase of confinement factor. The analysis of non-uniformly distributed strain of CST indicates that the loading paths do not affect the work mechanism of CST. The CST mainly provides transverse confinement and its contribution to flexural capacity was negligible. The modified equations can be roughly employed to predict the N - M interaction relationships of the CFCST columns. More experimental or numerical work should be conducted in the future to further evaluate the seismic behaviour of CFCST quantitatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete-filled thin-walled galvanized corrugated steel tube (CFCST) is a novel composite member with great potential to be used in harsh and corrosive environments as an outdoor pier or an underground structural column, etc. To properly understand the stress–strain performance of such column, this paper presents an experimental investigation on the stress–strain responses of 15 CFCST stub columns subjected to cyclic axial compression. The main variables are diameter-to-thickness ratios of corrugated steel tubes, loading patterns, and unloading/reloading cycles. The test results show that the thin-walled corrugated steel tube can enhance the axial strength and ductility of core concrete significantly. The failure modes, work mechanisms, axial stress–strain responses, plastic strains, and stress deteriorations are examined and addressed in detail. Two existing models, one for monotonic loading and the other for cyclic loading, are employed for comparison. The results show that modifications should be made for better applicability. • Cyclic axial compression tests conducted on 15 CFCST stub columns. • Strain analysis of thin-walled CSTs to examine the work mechanism. • Calculation methods proposed for plastic strains and stress deteriorations. • Feasibility evaluations of two existing models and suggestions for modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]