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A new approach was developed using NaH2PO4 as the stripping agent for Fe stripping from Fe-loaded Aliquat 336 during rare-earth elements recovery from red mud leachate. Owing to the strong coordination between Fe3+ and H2PO4‒, Fe mainly exists as FeH2PO42+ at [H2PO4‒] higher than 0.5 M, which can be readily stripped. The results showed a maximum Fe stripping efficiency of 95.5% under optimal condition. Moreover, the extraction capacity of the extractant after stripping was comparable to that of fresh extractant, and decreased only by 2% after 6 cycles, indicating the robustness of this approach for Fe stripping and extractant regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Titanium white waste was used as the iron source to prepare LiFePO 4 cathode material. • The feasibility of whole process was verified by thermodynamic analysis. • The contents of impurities in the product were far below the standard. • The electrochemical performance of the synthesized LiFePO 4 was satisfactory. Large amounts of titanium white waste are generated in the production of titanium dioxide using sulphate method, which in turn can be used to prepare LiFePO 4 cathode material, thereby reducing environmental risks and achieving resource recovery. However, a key challenge lies in the elimination of impurities. In this work, a cost-efficient and straightforward approach based on phase transformation during hydrothermal treatment was proposed to utilize titanium white waste with calcium dihydrogen phosphate for the preparation of LiFePO 4 cathode material. The content of Fe in the leachate was enriched to 81.5 g/L after purification, while 99.9 % of Ti and 98.36 % of Al and were successfully removed. In the subsequent process for Fe/P mother liquor preparation, the losses of Fe and P were only 5.82 % and 2.81 %, respectively. The Fe and P contents of the synthesized FePO 4 product were 29.47 % and 17.08 %, respectively, and the Fe/P molar ratio was 0.986. Crystal phase of the product matched well with standard iron phosphate, and the lamellar microstructure of FePO 4 was uniform with the particle size ranging from 3 to 5 μm. Moreover, the contents of impurities in the product were far below the standard. The initial discharge of LiFePO 4 synthesized by the iron phosphate was 160.6 mAh.g−1 at 0.1C and maintained good reversible capacity after 100 cycles. This work may provide new strategy for preparing LiFePO 4 cathode material from industrial solid waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling of valuable elements from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is of critical significance for both economic benefits and environmental sustainability by preventing potential safety hazards and reducing environmental pollution associated with improper disposal. In this study, a glucose reduction-acid leaching approach was proposed to recover valuable metals from spent LiNi x Co y Mn 1−x-y O 2. Under the optimized extraction conditions, 99.54% Li, 99.84% Ni, 99.58% Co, and 99.1% Mn were leached out. The kinetic analysis of the glucose reduction-acid leaching process revealed that the reaction rate was controlled by internal diffusion of valuable metals. The oxidation derivatives of glucose were mainly C 6 H 12 O 7 , C 6 H 10 O 7 , C 5 H 10 O 6 , C 4 H 8 O 5 and C 4 H 6 O 6. Through the reductive leaching process, high-valence Ni(III), Co(III), and Mn(IV) metals were reduced to the low-valence state by glucose, allowing for their fast leaching, while glucose was oxidized and decomposed into smaller molecular weight organics. The findings of this study may provide a new strategy for the effective recovery of valuable metals from spent LIBs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large amounts of heat are required in areas such as food processing and textile industries to maintain equipment in the medium-temperature zone 393–573 K. However, thermal storage materials that work at this temperature are rare. Hexagonal iron sulfide FeS exhibits a solid-state phase transition at 420 K, accompanied by a high entropy change. The quenched FeS is unstable when subjected to a thermal cycling test, and the related entropy change declines. A secondary hexagonal phase with Fe deficiency was confirmed by neutron powder diffractions. Annealing FeS at temperatures slightly higher than T t can accelerate the formation of the secondary phase. Once the sample is stabilized, the entropy change is no longer changeable. The thermally stabilized FeS sample exhibits a relatively high thermal storage density up to 136 J/cm3. This work suggests a new solid candidate for the application of solid-state phase transition latent heat energy storage in the medium-temperature region. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Separation of Al from spent LiFePO 4 /C powder was achieved. • The separation factor β Al/Fe reached above 2565. • Al extraction was ascribed to ion exchange with H+ in −PO(OH). • The extraction raffinate can be used for battery-grade FePO 4 preparation. Recovery of battery-grade FePO 4 from Al-bearing spent LiFePO 4 batteries (LFPs) is important for both prevention of environmental pollution and recycling of resources for LFPs industries. The premise for FePO 4 recovery from spent LFPs is the separation of Al, because Al readily co-precipitates with FePO 4 and lowers the electrochemical performance of the regenerated LiFePO 4. In this work, an efficient approach involving sulfuric acid leaching followed by solvent extraction was developed to separate Al from spent LiFePO 4 /C powder. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) in sulfonated kerosene was used as the extractant. The results showed that 96.4% of aluminum was extracted while the loss of iron was only 1.1% under the optimal conditions. The mass fraction of Al in the iron phosphate obtained from the extraction raffinate was only 0.007%, meeting the standard for preparing battery-grade FePO 4. The extracted Al can be easily stripped by diluted H 2 SO 4 solution and the extractants can be reused. Additionally, slope analysis method, FTIR spectroscopy, and ESI-MS analysis revealed that the extraction of Al in D2EHPA can be ascribed to the ion exchange between hydrogen ion of −PO(OH) and Al3+. This work may provide an economically feasible method for the recycling of valuable components from spent Al-bearing LiFePO 4 /C powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A resource recycling integrated with de-alkalization approach was proposed for the treatment of bauxite residue. The resource recycling process involves HCl acid leaching, Fe extraction by Aliquat 336, and two-stage neutralization precipitation. The results indicate that Ti, Sc, and Al can be effectively recovered from bauxite residue through the present approach. The liquor generated from the stripping of Fe and the leachate after precipitation consisted of large amounts of FeCl 3 and CaCl 2 , respectively, which were effective on the de-alkalization of bauxite residue. Moreover, the de-alkalized bauxite residue was suitable for the growth of ryegrass. The resource recycling integrated with de-alkalization approach offered an environment-friendly and cost-effective way for the disposal of large-scale of bauxite residue. Unlabelled Image • Integration of recycling with de-alkalization was applied to treat bauxite residue. • The recovery rates of Sc, Ti, and Al can reach 90%, 70%, and 80%, respectively. • The post-treated liquor effectively removed the alkali in the raw bauxite residue. • The de-alkalized bauxite residue was suitable for the growth of ryegrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain engineering is an alternative to chemical modification in manipulating functionalities of materials. Here, we report the lattice strain could relax the abrupt phase transition of (Ni1−xFex)1−δS and lead to an excellent negative thermal expansion (NTE) effect. The high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscope and extended x-ray absorption fine structure unambiguously demonstrate that parallel Ni3S4-type nanosheets could be introduced into the matrix lattice by increasing the δ value. By forming the Ni(Fe)-S-Ni(Fe) bonds, the (1–11) plane of nanosheets epitaxially grows on the (002) plane of the hexagonal matrix. Those bonds are strong enough to bear the large lattice mismatch along the interface as the phase transition occurs. As the concentration of nanosheets increases, the weak and inhomogeneous strain in matrix lattice becomes strong and uniform, expanding the NTE window in different ways. This result opens an unconventional avenue for designing NTE materials and extends the research scope of lattice strain as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prefabricated building, as a convenient and burgeoning building form, is worth popularizing. The research is aimed at comprehensively evaluating and analyzing the indoor thermal environment, air quality, and energy consumption of prefabricated buildings. Therefore, indoor temperature distribution, airflow distribution, and energy system of prefabricated buildings are considered. Different building envelopes proposed accord with average temperature standard (18°C) of indoor thermal environment in different climate regions based on simulation results of DeST software. Take the hot-summer and cold-winter region as an example, the distribution of the indoor temperature, air velocity, and the emission characteristics of indoor polluted particles are explored via ANSYS Fluent software. And the energy supply system for the prefabricated auxiliary building, as well as system operation performances and cost components, is studied. Results show the average indoor temperature on typical days in winter (4.1°C) and summer (31.1°C); air-source heat pump needs to activate for the needs of human thermal comfort. Moreover, the indoor air quality can meet the cleanliness standard after polluted particles release 40 s. And the annual cost of system 1 (photovoltaic system, air-source heat pump, and the state grid) is 839.53 $, 269.83 $ lower than system 2 (photovoltaic system, electrical storage, air-source heat pump, and the state grid), whereas the increase of electricity price can significantly reduce the payback period and thus improve the economy of system 2. These findings provide suggestions in terms of indoor thermal environment, cleanliness, and suitable energy supply system to evaluate and facilitate the widespread application of buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Herein, a new approach for direct separation of Cu and Zn from high acid leaching solution was proposed. The approach includes two steps, Cu and part of Zn first precipitated with H 2 S, then the Zn in the residue was re-leached using the original leaching solution. Thermodynamics calculation indicates that CuS and As 2 S 3 will generate even the acid concentration is over 8 mol/L, while ZnS is easier to dissolve in acid solution. Therefore, it is possible to selective separate Cu and Zn using H 2 S under high acid concentration. Key parameters which will affecting the precipitation of Cu and the pickling of Zn are systematically investigated. Under the optimal conditions, the precipitation efficiency of Cu can reach over 99%, and the loss of Zn was only 3.15%. Moreover, more than 96% of As in the leaching solution will also be precipitated. The concentrations of Cu, As, and Zn in the leachate are 0.0722, 0.0893, 48.73 g/L, respectively. The content of Cu in the residue can reach over 57% which could be used for extraction of Cu. XRD results showed that Cu and As were existed as CuS and As 2 S 3 in the residue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] This work investigates the roles of Co and Fe sites in a composite cocatalyst on the performance of hematite photoanodes for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. The cobalt/iron-based composite (Co-Fe-O) cocatalyst, consisting of adjustable Co2+/Fe3+ratios, was synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal method. It reveals that Co2+ sites with a robust capacity for low-bias hole capture, which is insignificantly affected by partial substitution by Fe3+, decelerate the charge recombination process. However, it also leads to a slower charge transfer, with slower oxygen-evolution kinetics on Co sites than on Fe sites. Consequently, the modulation of the Co2+/Fe3+ ratio facilitates the redistribution of surface strap states, striking a delicate balance between charge recombination and charge transfer rates. This optimization led to the highest low-bias photocurrent density of 1.6 mA cm−2 at 1.0 V vs. RHE (a 2.4-fold increase) for the cocatalyst with a Co2+/Fe3+ ratio of 1:2 (CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles). Additionally, the cocatalyst with a Co2+/Fe3+ ratio of 1:4 (mixture of CoFe 2 O 4 and Fe 2 O 3 nanoparticles, demonstrated an impressive high-bias photocurrent density of 3.8 mA cm−2 at 1.6 V vs. RHE (a 2.3-fold increase). This study emphasizes the promising potential of modulating active sites within a cocatalyst to achieve efficient PEC water splitting on a hematite-based photoanode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new method for arsenic direct removal through the synergy of iodide and copper powder was proposed. • Almost 100% As was removed from waste acid containing high-acidity and arsenic. • The kinetics of arsenic direct removal was well characterized by the chemical reaction controlled model. • The double covering-layers structure was formed on the surface of copper particles. Large amounts of waste acids with high acidity and arsenic levels are produced during pyrometallurgy of nonferrous metal sulfide ores, in which the treatment of arsenic remains a problem. In this study, copper powder was used as a reducing agent and synergized with iodine ions to effectively remove arsenic from waste acids. The influences of stirring speed, copper powder particle size, sodium iodide/copper powder dosages, and reaction temperature on the removal efficiency of arsenic were investigated. The results showed almost complete removal of arsenic under the optimal conditions: 600 rpm stirring speed, copper powder particle size <15 μm, molar ratio I:As = 5, molar ratio Cu:As = 8, reaction temperature 40 °C, and reaction time 90 min. The kinetics studies indicated that arsenic removal was controlled by chemical reaction with apparent activation energy of 42.39 kJ·mol−1. The morphological and structural characterizations of dearsenization residues showed surface of copper particles with double covering-layers. The interior covering-layer constituted the formation region of As(0), the phases of which were As and As-Cu intermetallic compounds, while the main product formed in exterior covering-layer was identified as CuI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The large volumetric contraction effect presented by MnM'X (M' = Co, Ni; X = Ge, Si) during the martensitic (MA) transformation displays their potential applications in negative thermal expansion (NTE) field. In this work, we report the giant antiferromagnetic (AFM) NTE in (MnNiGe) 1- x (MnCoSn) x (0.02 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) compounds. When x = 0.02, 0.04, 0.06 and 0.1, their average linear NTE coefficients reach −48 ppm/K (220 K - 332 K), −96 ppm/K (174 K-280 K), −92 ppm/K (116 K-220 K) and −35 ppm/K (75 K-130 K), respectively. Moreover, the magnetization shows a descending tendency with increasing x from 0.02 to 0.1, which can be attributed to the more-antiparallel AFM ground state, suggesting their feasible applications in the magnetic environment. Highlights • Antiferromagnetic negative thermal expansions are obtained in (MnNiGe) 1- x (MnCoSn) x (0.02 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) compounds. • The (MnNiGe) 0.98 (MnCoSn) 0.02 compound shows a lower magnetostriction than the ferromagnetic Mn 0.98 CoGe compound. • The relatively high thermal conductivities are observed in (MnNiGe) 1- x (MnCoSn) x (x =0.02 and 0.3) compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Selective leaching of Sc from red mud is particularly important for both solid waste treatment and reclamation of rare earth elements. This work developed a new method for selective acid leaching of Sc and Fe from red mud. Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) was chosen as the chelating agent to re-distribute the species of Sc and Fe ions in the leaching process, which greatly enhanced the selectivity of Sc over Fe. EDTA–enhanced selective leaching of Sc from red mud using diluted hydrochloric acid was achieved under the optimal experimental conditions: ratio of leaching agent (HCl + H 2 O): red mud: EDTA was 40 mL: 10 g: 2 g, and HCl dosage was 40% of theoretical value at temperature 70 °C and reaction time 4.0 h. The leaching efficiencies of Sc and Fe were 79.6% and 6.12% respectively. The Sc/Fe leaching efficiency ratio was greatly improved with the involvement of EDTA, which made the subsequent separation of Fe and Sc easier. Furthermore, this work may provide an alternative way for the recovery and separation of valuable metals from solid wastes. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Selective leaching of scandium from red mud was achieved with the involvement of EDTA. • The species of Sc and Fe ions were re-distributed by EDTA in the leaching process. • Effects of HCl and EDTA dosages, reaction temperature and time on leaching were studied. • The amount of HCl was greatly reduced, reducing the risks of corrosion and volatilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinoic acid (RA) plays important roles in various biological processes in animals. RA signaling is mediated by two types of nuclear receptors, namely retinoic acid receptor (RAR) and retinoid x receptor (RXR), which regulate gene expression by binding to retinoic acid response elements (RAREs) in the promoters of target genes. Here, we explored the effect of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on the Pacific oyster Crassostera gigas at the transcriptome level. A total of 586 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in C. gigas upon ATRA treatment, with 309 upregulated and 277 downregulated genes. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that ATRA affects the development, metabolism, reproduction, and immunity of C. gigas. Four tyrosinase genes, including Tyr-6 (LOC105331209), Tyr-9 (LOC105346503), Tyr-20 (LOC105330910), and Tyr-12 (LOC105320007), were upregulated by ATRA according to the transcriptome data and these results were verified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis. In addition, increased expression of Tyr (a melanin-related TYR gene in C. gigas) and Tyr-2 were detected after ATRA treatment. The yeast one-hybrid assay revealed the DNA-binding activity of the RA receptors CgRAR and CgRXR, and the interaction of CgRAR with RARE present in the Tyr-2 promoter. These results provide evidence for the further studies on the role of ATRA and the mechanism of RA receptors in mollusks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homeostasis was initially conceptualized by Bernard and Cannon around a century ago as a steady state of physiological parameters that vary within a certain range, such as blood pH, body temperature, and heart rate [1,2]. The underlying mechanisms that maintain homeostasis are explained by negative feedbacks that are executed by the neuronal, endocrine, and immune systems. At the cellular level, homeostasis, such as that of redox and energy steady state, also exists and is regulated by various cell signaling pathways. The induction of homeostatic mechanism is critical for human to adapt to various disruptive insults (stressors); while on the other hand, adaptation occurs at the expense of other physiological processes and thus runs the risk of collateral damages, particularly under conditions of chronic stress. Conceivably, anti-stress protection can be achieved by stressor-mimicking medicinals that elicit adaptive responses prior to an insult and thereby serve as health risk countermeasures; and in situations where maladaptation may occur, downregulating medicinals could be used to suppress the responses and prevent subsequent pathogenesis. Both strategies are preemptive interventions particularly suited for individuals who carry certain lifestyle, environmental, or genetic risk factors. In this article, we will define and characterize a new modality of prophylactic intervention that forestalls diseases via modulating homeostatic signaling. Moreover, we will provide evidence from the literature that support this concept and distinguish it from other homeostasis-related interventions such as adaptogen, hormesis, and xenohormesis. [Display omitted] • Various theories exist on how to enhance the balance of biological systems with medicinal and behavioral interventions. • Modulant of Homeostatic Signaling (MHS) denotes interventions that act as "tuners" of specific adaptive responses via relevant signaling targets. • "Tune-up" MHS (TUMHS) acts as a stress mimic that elicits protective adaptive responses, hence preventing damages caused by an upcoming stress. • "Tune-down" MHS (TDMHS) acts as a damper of chronic, detrimental adaptive responses that predispose individuals to a variety of chronic diseases. • Both TUMHS and TDMHS are particularly suitable as risk countermeasures for individuals who carry lifestyle, environmental, and genetic risks, such as the risks for mismatch diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy-resolved neutron imaging instrument (ERNI) is built on the number 13 beamline at the China Spallation Neutron Source (CSNS), which is the first instrument dedicated to pulsed neutron imaging in China. ERNI is designed as a multi-scale, multi-dimensional, multi-modality characterization platform. The analytical techniques will include conventional neutron radiography and tomography, Bragg-edge neutron imaging, neutron grating imaging, neutron resonance imaging, neutron diffraction, and complementary X-ray tomography. The spatial resolution for conventional neutron imaging is about 15 μm; the maximum field of view could achieve 200 mm × 200 mm; the spectral resolution is better than 0.5%. ERNI is expected to serve the growing multidisciplinary imaging user community from materials science, engineering, energy, cultural heritage, biology, geosciences, industry, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bauxite residue is the biggest environmental issue for the alumina industry, and alkalinity regulation is the key step to treat this kind of solid waste. In this work, recycled ferric chloride, generated from the resource recycling process of bauxite residue, was applied to regulate the alkalinity of bauxite residue. The results show that the pH value of the leachate decreased from 11.38 to 7.06 under the optimal condition (solid-to-liquid ratio 400 g/L, Fe3+ concentration 10 g/L, reaction temperature 25 °C and reaction time 1 h). Most alkaline components in the bauxite residue can be neutralized after two dealkalization stages. Fe3+ showed a preferential exchange capability to Na + than Ca2+, and the exchanged Ca2+ was also beneficial for the alkalinity regulation process. The elution solution may be used as the raw material for chlor-alkali industry. Furthermore, evaluation of the revegetation potential showed that the dealkalized bauxite residue was suitable for the growth of Lolium perenne. In summary, utilization of recycled ferric chloride to regulate the alkalinity of bauxite residue offers an economical and environmentally friendly way for large-scale bauxite residue disposal. [Display omitted] • Alkalinity regulation of bauxite residue was achieved by recycled FeCl 3. • Fe3+ showed a preferential exchange capacity to Na + than Ca2+ in bauxite residue. • Most alkaline components in bauxite residue can be neutralized after two stages. • The dealkalized bauxite residue with 15% w/w sawdust was suitable for the growth of Lolium perenne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A synergistic combination of chloride and copper powder was proposed as a new method to reductively remove arsenic from highly-acidic wastewater with high arsenic content (HAWA). As(III) was reduced to As(0) by copper powder in the presence of chloride and were effectively removed from HAWA. The procedure to remove arsenic was optimized as follows: initial H+ concentration of 5 mol L−1, Cu-to-As molar ratio of 8, Cl-to-As molar ratio of 10, a reaction temperature of 60 °C, copper powder particle size of 68–24 μm, and a stirring speed of 300 r min−1. Under these optimal conditions, the removal rate of arsenic was close to 100%. Kinetics results suggested that the arsenic removal process was controlled by both diffusion and chemical reactions with an apparent activation energy of 29.78 kJ mol−1. The XRD results showed that the removed arsenic in the residue existed primarily in the form of AsCu 3 alloy. Image 104272 • Reductive removal of arsenic was achieved via chloride-copper synergy. • Arsenic was almost completely removed from the highly-acidic wastewater. • Arsenic removal process was controlled by both diffusion and chemical reaction. • Arsenic in the residue was in the form of AsCu 3 alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese-zinc chloride waste liquor (MZCWL) produced during cobalt smelting is a significant source for the preparation of high-purity manganese sulfate. The key to recover manganese from MZCWL is the separation of Zn(II). Conventional methods for zinc removal are unsatisfactory due to similar physicochemical properties of zinc and manganese. In this study, a complexation ion-exchange approach was developed to selectively extract and separate zinc from MZCWL. Theoretical analysis suggested that zinc existed as non-cationic chloride complexes (ZnCl 2 0, ZnCl 3 −, and ZnCl 4 2−) under a high chloride concentration. They can be adsorbed by an anion-exchange resin, while manganese still existed in the form of divalent cation. Herein, D201 resin was used to selectively adsorb zinc from MZCWL. The adsorption was significantly affected by chloride concentration, contact time, resin dosage, and temperature. Moreover, the Langmuir isotherm model fitted the adsorption best with a maximum zinc adsorption capacity of 158.98 mg·g−1 at room temperature. In addition, SEM-EDS and Raman analysis further revealed that Zn(II) was adsorbed by D201 resin in the form of zinc chloride complexes. This work provides an alternative and feasible approach for the separation of zinc from chloride medium. Unlabelled Image • The species of Zn(II) under varying chloride concentrations were clarified. • Zn(II) adsorption by D201 resin was related to monolayer uniform adsorption and controlled by chemisorption. • The adsorption efficiency of Zn(II) by D201 resin reached 99.93% under the optimal condition. • Zn(II) was adsorbed on the D201 resin in the form of ZnCl 4 2−. • Zn(II) could be readily eluted from the loaded resin by deionized water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a noninvasive technique, transcranial sonography (TCS) of substantia nigra (SN) has gradually showed its effectiveness not only in diagnosis but also in understanding clinical features of Parkinson's Disease (PD). This study aimed to further evaluate TCS for clinical diagnosis of PD, and to explore the association between sonographic manifestations and visual hallucinations (VH). A total of 226 subjects including 141 PD patients and 85 controls were recruited. All participants received TCS. A series of rating scales to evaluate motor and non-motor symptoms were performed in PD patients. Results showed that 172 subjects were successfully assessed by TCS. The area of SN was greater in PD patients than that in controls (P < 0.001). As receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed, the best cutoff value for the larger SN echogenicity size was 23.5 mm2 (sensitivity 70.3%, specificity 77.0%). Patients with VH had larger SN area (P = 0.019), as well as higher Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS) scores (P = 0.018). Moreover, binary logistic regression analysis indicated that SN hyperechogenicity (odds ratio = 4.227, P = 0.012) and NMSS scores (odds ratio = 0.027, P = 0.042) could be the independent predictors for VH. In conclusion, TCS can be used as an auxiliary diagnostic tool for Parkinson's disease. Increased SN echogenicity is correlated with VH in Parkinson's disease, possibly because the brain stem is involved in the mechanism in the onset of VH. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ge doping and TiO 2 branched structuring promote the charge separation in TiO 2 photoanodes synergistically. • TiO 2 /Ge-TiO 2 exhibits >90% hole transfer efficiency at 1.23 V vs. RHE for water oxidation. • Ge doping decreases FE HMF by creating a hydrophilic surface. • The oxidation kinetics of HMF and HMF-oxidated intermediates vary on the TiO 2 photoanodes. • TiO 2 /Ge-TiO 2 exhibits the fastest DFF production and conversion and the highest HMF conversion rate. A high-performance TiO 2 /Ge-TiO 2 nanorod photoanode, with the synergistic effect of Ge doping and core/shell structuring on promoting charge separation, was used in the photoelectrochemical H 2 production system. The TiO 2 /Ge-TiO 2 photoanode exhibited >90% hole transfer efficiency at 1.23 V vs. RHE for water oxidation. Moreover, 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO)-mediated hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) oxidation was achieved on the TiO 2 photoanodes for the first time. Notably, the kinetics of HMF oxidation were slower compared to water oxidation, resulting in a higher Faraday efficiency (FE HMF) corresponding to a lower hole transfer efficiency. The oxidation of HMF on the TiO 2 photoanodes was found to predominantly follow the pathway dominated by 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF). The FE HMF displayed variation on the TiO 2 photoanodes, with Ge doping leading to a decrease by enhancing surface hydrophilia. However, this decrease was effectively compensated for by the overlay of the TiO 2 shell. Consequently, the TiO 2 /Ge-TiO 2 photoanode achieved the highest HMF conversion rate, which can be attributed to the accelerated production and conversion of DFF. This work expands the application of TiO 2 photoanodes on biomass conversion and sheds light on the pathway and kinetic characteristics of TEMPO-mediated HMF oxidation processes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: The Trail‐Making Test (TMT), which is commonly used to measure executive function, consists of two components (TMT‐A and TMTB). There is a lack of normative TMT data for Chinese elderly adults. This study aimed to evaluate the validity of the TMT in screening for cognitive impairment. Design: 2,294 Chinese‐speaking adults aged 50 to 85: 1,026 with normal cognition (NC), 462 with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 108 with Alzheimer's disease (AD), 113 with vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI), 121 with vascular dementia (VaD), 282 with uncertain types of dementia, and 15 with mixed dementia. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to test the ability of TMT scores to differentiate between NC and cognitive impairment. Results: Age, education, and sex were significantly associated with TMT completion time. The TMT‐A exhibited sensitivity of 77.8% and specificity of 92.0% with cut‐off value of 98.5 seconds for discriminating AD from NC. The TMT‐B had sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 91.8% with a cut‐off value of 188.5 seconds for discriminating AD from NC. The TMT‐A had sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 81.6% for discriminating NC from VaD with a cut‐off value of 77.5 seconds, and the TMT‐s had sensitivity of 81.6% and specificity of 83.9% with a cut‐off value of 147.5 seconds. The TMT had less sensitivity distinguishing MCI from NC. Conclusion: The Chinese version of the TMT is reliable for detecting AD or VaD but poor at distinguishing MCI from NC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clarifying the effects of the atomization gases on the mechanical properties and their interactions with scanning strategies is of vital importance in additively manufactured materials. In the present work, two batches of 304L specimens, i.e., N 2 -specimens and Ar-specimens, were produced by laser powder bed fusion using 304L stainless steel powders atomized by argon (Ar-powder) or nitrogen (N 2 -powder), respectively. The Ar-specimens have similar microstructures with finer grains, which do not change with the scanning strategies, while the N 2 -specimens have large-grained microstructures with textures varying with scanning strategies. The tensile test shows that the Ar-specimens have better consistency of mechanical properties, higher elongation, and higher strain hardening rates than that of the N 2 -specimens. While the tensile strength of the N 2 -specimens varies with the scanning strategies, in which the specimen with 67° laser scanning rotation has the highest tensile strength (694.80 MPa). Microstructural observation shows that the higher strain hardening rates of the Ar-specimens are caused by the simultaneous occurrence of deformation twinning and strain-induced martensite transformation, while the higher tensile strength of 67° rotation N 2 -specimen results from the texture-controlled Schmid factor (an average value of 0.45–0.47). This work may give guidance for the production of metal powders and for quickly tailoring the mechanical properties of the additively manufactured stainless steels. [Display omitted] • Innovatively using Ar and N 2 atmosphere to produce the 304 L powders for the LPBF. • High strain hardening rate of Ar-specimens caused by the simultaneous happening of TWIP and TRIP. • Argon atomization plays a significant role in the consistency of mechanical properties. • Nitrogen atomization has more potential to tailor a higher strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molluscs constitute the second largest phylum of animals in the world, and shell colour is one of their most important phenotypic characteristics. In this study, we found among three folds on the mantle edge of oyster, only the outer fold had the same colour as the shell. Transcriptome and mantle cutting experiment indicated that the outer fold may be mainly reflected in chitin framework formation and biomineralisation. There were obvious differences in SEM structure and protein composition between the black and white shell periostraca. The black shell periostraca had more proteins related to melanin biosynthesis and chitin binding. Additionally, we identified an uncharacterized protein gene (named as CgCBP) ultra-highly expressed only in the black outer fold and confirmed its function of chitin-binding and CaCO 3 precipitation promoting. RNAi also indicated that CgCBP knockdown could change the structure of shell periostracum and reduce shell pigmentation. All these results suggest that the mantle outer fold plays multiple key roles in shell periostraca bioprocessing, and shell periostracum structure affected by chitin-binding protein is functionally correlated with shell pigmentation. The investigation of oyster shell periostracum structure and shell colour will provide a better understanding in pigmentation during biological mineralisation in molluscs. • Outer fold is sole effective tissue among three folds with regard to shell colour. • Shell periostraca structure is functionally correlated with shell pigmentation. • CgCBP protein can bind to chitin and increase calcium carbonate precipitation. • CgCBP may influence pigmentation by affecting the shell periostracum structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family, a class of transcription factors with key functions, are important in host innate immune defense and stress response. However, further research is required to determine the functions of IRFs in invertebrates. In this study, the coding sequence of an IRF gene was obtained from the Zhikong scallop (Chlamys farreri) and named CfIRF8-like. The open reading frame of CfIRF8-like was 1371 bp long and encoded 456 amino acids. Protein domain prediction revealed a typical IRF domain in the N-terminus of the CfIRF8-like protein and a typical IRF3 domain in the C-terminus. Multiple sequence alignment confirmed the conservation of the amino acid sequences of these two functional protein domains. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CfIRF8-like clustered with mollusk IRF8 proteins and then clustered with vertebrate IRF3, IRF4, and IRF5 subfamily proteins. Quantitative real-time PCR detected CfIRF8-like mRNA in all tested scallop tissues, with the highest expression in the gills. Simultaneously, the expression of CfIRF8-like transcripts in gills was significantly induced by polyinosinic–polycytidylic acid challenge. The results of protein interaction experiments showed that CfIRF8-like could directly bind the TBK1/IKKε family protein of scallop (CfIKK2) via its N-terminal IRF domain, revealing the presence of an ancient functional TBK1/IKKε-IRF signaling axis in scallops. Finally, dual-luciferase reporter assay results showed that the overexpression of CfIRF8-like in human embryonic kidney 293T cells could specifically activate the interferon β promoter of mammals and the interferon-stimulated response element promoter in dose-dependent manners. The findings of this preliminary analysis of the signal transduction and immune functions of scallop CfIRF8-like protein lay a foundation for an in-depth understanding of the innate immune function of invertebrate IRFs and the development of comparative immunology. The experimental results also provide theoretical support for the breeding of scallop disease-resistant strains. • CfIRF8-like was identified and charecterized in the Zhikong scallop. • CfIRF8-like expression was induced by poly(I:C) challenge. • CfIRF8-like interacts with CfIKK2 directly. • CfIRF8-like could activate IFNβ and ISRE reporter genes in mammalian cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most common subtype of dementia after Alzheimer's disease (AD). Currently, there are no medications approved for treating patients with VaD. Fufangdanshen (FFDS) tablets (Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae formula tablets) are a traditional Chinese medicine that has been reported to improve memory. However, the existing evidence for FFDS tablets in clinical practice derives from methodologically flawed studies. To further investigate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of FFDS tables in the treatment of mild to moderate VaD, we designed and reported the methodology for a 24-week randomized, double-blind, parallel, multicenter study.Methods/design: This ongoing study is a double-blind, randomized, parallel placebo-controlled trial. A total of 240 patients with mild to moderate VaD will be enrolled. After a 2-week run-in period, the eligible patients will be randomized to receive either three FFDS or placebo tablets three times per day for 24 weeks, with a follow-up 12 weeks after the last treatment. The primary efficacy measurement will be the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) and the Clinician Interview-Based Impression of Change (CIBIC-plus). The secondary efficacy measurements will include the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and activities of daily living (ADL). Adverse events will also be reported.Discussion: This randomized trial will be the first rigorous study on the efficacy and safety of FFDS tablets for treating cognitive symptoms in patients with VaD using a rational design.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01761227 . Registered on 2 January 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caloric cooling originating from solid-state phase transition triggered by external fields is identified to be a green and efficient alternative to the traditional refrigeration technology based on vapor expression. If multi degrees of freedoms are coupled at the phase transition, the caloric effect can be stimulated by multi stimuli. However, characterizing the caloric effect under multi fields is still challenging. Here, we proposed a quasi-direct method for caloric effect measurements under the combination of magnetic field and hydrostatic pressure. By combining two external fields in a proper sequence, the reversible caloric effect of Mn 0.6 Fe 0.4 NiSi 0.5 Ge 0.5 alloy was markedly enhanced. Our method can be expanded to study the multicaloric effect in other multiferroic materials and promote the development of solid-state refrigeration in practical applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barocaloric (BC) refrigeration is a new type of clean and energy-efficiency refrigeration technology. However, the giant and colossal BC effects are mainly based on the first-order phase transitions, leading to the unfavorable hysteresis. Here we report the giant BC effect along with weak hysteresis at the antiferromagnetic (AFM) to paramagnetic (PM) phase transition (T N = 283 K) in antiperovskite PdNMn 3 compound. The reversible isothermal entropy change reaches 28.3 J kg−1 K−1 under 290 MPa. The hysteresis is only about 2 K, which is associated with a small volumetric change Δ V/V at T N (~0.2%). The magnetic entropy is proposed to mainly contribute to the entropy change at T N , which compensates for the reduced lattice contribution due to the small Δ V/V. Our result demonstrates the possibility of realizing giant BC effect together with weak hysteresis in materials where both crystallographic and non-crystallographic entropy changes cooperate at the first-order phase transition (FOPT). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]