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Many-objective optimization problems (MaOPs) are challenging tasks involving optimizing many conflicting objectives simultaneously. Decomposition-based many-objective evolutionary algorithms have effectively maintained a balance between convergence and diversity in recent years. However, these algorithms face challenges in accurately approximating the complex geometric structure of irregular Pareto fronts (PFs). In this paper, an information entropy-driven evolutionary algorithm based on reinforcement learning (RL-RVEA) for many-objective optimization with irregular Pareto fronts is proposed. The proposed algorithm leverages reinforcement learning to guide the evolution process by interacting with the environment to learn the shape and features of PF, which adaptively adjusts the distribution of reference vectors to cover the PFs structure effectively. Moreover, an information entropy-driven adaptive scalarization approach is designed in this paper to reflect the diversity of nondominated solutions, which facilitates the algorithm to balance multiple competing objectives adaptively and select solutions efficiently while maintaining individual diversity. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, the RL-RVEA compared with seven state-of-the-art algorithms on the DTLZ, MaF, and WFG test suites and four real-world MaOPs. The results of the experiments demonstrate that the suggested algorithm provides a novel and practical method for addressing MaOPs with irregular PFs. • A novel RL-RVEA addresses many-objective optimization with irregular pareto fronts. • A reinforcement learning-based adaptive reference vector to guide the direction of convergence. • A scalarization approach preserves the diversity of solutions for next generation. • The RL-RVEA outperforms seven advanced many-objective optimization algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strontium (Sr) ions were added to porous magnesium (Mg) oxide with silicon and fluorine by microarc oxidation (MAO) to improve its osteogenic and pro-angiogenic properties. First, pure Mg was oxidized by MAO, and Sr was added by electrolysis. The surface of the resulting Sr coating was characterized by SEM, EDS, and EDS mapping. The release of Sr ions was monitored by ICP-OES. The antibacterial property of the coating was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus. The effect of Sr coating on osteogenesis was tested in MC3T3-E1 cell line by performing cell adhesion and proliferation tests, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity detection, cell morphology characterization, alizarin red staining, and osteogenic-related gene expression analysis. Finally, HUVECs cells were used to test the effect of Sr coating on angiogenesis through cell migration and tube formation assays, VEGF quantification, chicken embryo chorioallantoic membranes (CAM) test, and angiogenic-related gene expression analysis. The results showed that Sr coating had a hierarchical microstructure with a microporous structure evenly covered with nano-grains and that the Sr elements from the coating were released slowly and continuously. Sr coating had effective antibacterial properties and promoted cell adhesion, proliferation, ALP release, calcium nodule formation, and upregulated osteogenic gene expression. Moreover, the coating could promote migration, tube formation, VEGF expression, and angiogenic gene upregulation in endothelial cells. Sr coating also enhanced angiogenesis of CAM. This study supports that Sr coating on Mg- MAO enhances osteogenesis and angiogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aim to study the influence of circulating ash used as heat carrier and dolomite used as catalyst on mercury transition during the step conversion of coal pyrolysis and combustion, five experiments with different operating conditions were conducted in this study, including four pyrolysis experiments of raw coal, coal/ash, coal/dolomite, coal and ash/dolomite, and combustion experiment of pyrolysis solid product. By changing the experimental conditions including final pyrolysis temperature, heating rate, coal-ash ratio and dolomite type, the transition path and final mercury distribution in the step conversion process were comprehensively analyzed. Experiments results indicated that mercury completely released out from coal when the final pyrolysis temperature was 600 °C. The individual addition of ash could promote the mercury release from coal at lower temperature. Dolomite could catalyze the oxidation of Hg0 in gas phase, and the modified dolomite had better catalytic capacity for Hg0 oxidation than natural dolomite. The addition of circulating ash and natural dolomite both had a certain catalytic effect on Hg0 emission peaks during the coal pyrolysis. Increasing the coal-ash ratio was conducive to the oxidation of Hg0 in pyrolysis gas. During the direct combustion of coal, the content of Hg0 released into the gas phase could reach to 69.97%. By adding ash, ash/natural dolomite and ash/modified dolomite to the coal pyrolysis process, the content of Hg0 in pyrolysis gas decreased to 58.99%, 34.77% and 31.30%, respectively. The research is able to offer the theoretical foundation for mercury contaminants' removal and process optimization of the step conversion technology. • Ash heat carrier can promote the release of mercury in coal at lower temperatures. • Fe 2 O 3 has the strongest catalysis ability towards Hg0. • Dolomite and circulating ash have a synergistic effect on Hg0 oxidation. • The step conversion process greatly reduces the treatment pressure of mercury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loess deposits as a unique terrestrial archive of paleo-dust contribute to understanding the wide-scale and long-term dust transport from source to sink. This study provided diagnostic constraints on the sources of clay-sized particles in the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP) loess by expanding the potential dust source areas with the Kyzylkum Desert and the Central Asian loess. Based on the grain sizes and the particle-size-specific trace elements, we characterized the major provenance and the sedimentary process of the Kyzylkum Desert sands. The results indicate the main derivation of Kyzylkum Desert sands from the Tian Shan-derived sediments, with limited large-scale mixing. The desert was thought to be a sink region, instead of an important dust source, which was supported by its weak genetic links to the Central Asian loess. With integration of the published data set about trace element and Sr Nd isotopic composition and our results, combined with the simulation results, we revealed that the Badain Jaran and Tengger deserts in northwestern CLP, rather than the Taklimakan and Kyzylkum deserts further west, played an important role in supply of the clay-sized particles for the CLP loess. The findings implied that the fine particles were primarily related to the East Asian winter monsoon, instead of the high-level westerly airstreams. In this context, we attributed the asynchronous timing of enhanced dust accumulation during the last glacial maximum (LGM) over Greenland and North Pacific (early LGM) and on the CLP (late LGM) to the differences in the major dust sources and in the atmospheric circulation systems. • Kyzylkum Desert makes negligible contribution to the Central Asian loess. • Origin of clay-sized components in the CLP loess is systematically characterized. • The findings of this study help to improve understanding of the Asian dust cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The energy consumed during the desalination process in a flow-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI) is recovered by a two-chamber device, where the adsorbed electrodes are discharged with constant current. When single constant discharge current is applied, the maximum energy of 36.3 J can be obtained with 0.50 mA/cm2 discharge current density. Much more energy is recovered by applying successive discharge currents. With additional conductive agent carbon nanotubes in the suspend carbon electrodes, the ratio was further enhanced by 60%. Increased salt concentration of the electrolyte could decrease the energy consumption and improve the energy recovery. The energy recovery ratio was promoted to 9.4% when the salt concentration of the electrolyte increased to 9.60 g L−1. Highlights • Two-chamber device to recover the energy from FCDI. • Successive discharging currents benefit the energy recovery. • Additional CNT improved energy recovery ratio by 60%. • Increased salt concentration of electrode improved energy recovery performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • An architectural assumption management process with guidelines is developed. • Two case studies were conducted to validate the process. • The process can help to make architectural assumptions explicit. • The process can help to identify and reduce invalid architectural assumptions. Abstract Context Architectural assumption management is critical to the success of software development projects. In this paper, we propose an Architectural Assumption Management (AAM) process, comprised of four AAM activities: Architectural Assumption Making, Description, Evaluation, and Maintenance. Objective Evaluating the AAM process in architectural assumption management, regarding the ease of understanding and the effort of conducting the AAM process, as well as the effectiveness of using the AAM process to make architectural assumptions explicit and to identify and reduce invalid architectural assumptions. Method An explanatory study with 88 first-year master students in software engineering, and an exploratory study with five practitioners from five companies. Results (1) the ease of understanding the AAM process is moderate for first-year master students but easy for practitioners; (2) the effort of conducting the AAM process is moderate for first-year master students; (3) Making and Evaluation took the students more time than Description and Maintenance; (4) the practitioners considered Evaluation as the most time consuming activity; (5) the AAM process can help to make architectural assumptions explicit and to identify and reduce invalid architectural assumptions in projects. The majority of the students and practitioners agreed that Architectural Assumption Evaluation is the most helpful activity for all these three aspects. For other activities, there are different opinions about their helpfulness; and (6) there are various factors identified that can impact the aforementioned results. Being aware of and properly adjusting these factors can facilitate the application of the AAM process in projects. Conclusions The AAM process aims at systematically managing architectural assumptions in software development. The results of the case studies provide preliminary empirical evidence for the evaluation of the AAM process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To realize the high value-added utilization of low-rank coal and elucidate the selectivity of solvent structure and oxygen-containing compounds in low-rank coal, Zhaotong (ZT) lignite and Naomaohu (NMH) sub-bitumite were subjected to thermal dissolution in three types of oxygen-containing solvents with different properties, namely ethanol (ET), tetrahydrofuran (THF) and ethyl acetate (EA). The soluble portions (SPs) obtained were separated by column chromatography into three types of fractions: hydrocarbon (HY), non-hydrocarbon (NHY) and asphaltene (ASP). The results indicated that the yields of SPs in all three solvents for each coal was ET > THF > EA, and the ratios of column chromatographic fractions of SPs of the two coals were significantly different, with lower asphaltene content in the SPs of NMH. The thermal dissolution process of the three solvents significantly reduced the oxygen content of low-rank coal, and the deoxygenation capacity was in the order of ET > THF > EA. More medium or low polarity compounds could be obtained from NMH than from ZT through thermal dissolution process. ET showed excellent selectivity for the generation of both phenols and esters, where the phenols were mainly alkylphenols. THF could release highly condensed polycyclic compounds from coal thus more naphthalenols containing substituent groups were detected in phenols. And it was more selective to COO bonds in NMH than ZT from the results of XPS. More esters were detected in the SPs of NMH compared with ZT. EA had a strong selectivity for C O in low-rank coals, and the thermal dissolution process released a large number of esters, which could be divided into alkanoates and aromatic acid esters. This study can provide a theoretical basis for extracting high value-added chemicals from low-rank coal under mild conditions. [Display omitted] • Thermal dissolution can obtain oxygenated chemicals and upgrading coals. • Ethanol has the strongest deoxygenation capacity. • Ethyl acetate shows selective dissociation ability for esters. • Tetrahydrofuran dissociates highly condensed polycyclic compound such as naphthols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study employed an open external circuit, rather than a closed circuit applied in previous studies, to operate an microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensor for real-time nitrate monitoring, and achieved surprisingly greater sensitivity (4.42 ± 0.3–6.66 ± 0.4 mV/(mg/L)) when the nitrate was at a concentration of 10–40 mg/L, compared to that of the MFC sensor with a closed circuit (0.8 ± 0.05–1.6 ± 0.1 mV/(mg/L)). The MFC sensor operated in open circuit (O-MFC sensor) delivered much more stable performance than that operated in closed circuit (C-MFC sensor) when affected by organic matter (NaAc). The sensitivity of O-MFC sensor was twice that of C-MFC sensor at a low background concentration of organic matter. When organic matter reached a high concentration, the sensitivity of O-MFC sensor remained at an acceptable level, while that of C-MFC sensor dropped to almost zero. Challenged by a combined shock of organic matter and nitrate, O-MFC sensor delivered evident electrical signals for nitrate warning, while C-MFC failed. Another novel feature of this study lies in a new mathematical model to examine the bioanode process of nitrate monitoring. It revealed that lower capacitance of the bioanode in O-MFC was the major contributor to the improved sensitivity of the device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxicity monitoring is essential for the protection of public health and ecological safety. Microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensors demonstrated good potential in toxicity monitoring, but current MFC sensors can only be used for anaerobic water monitoring. In this study, a novel gas diffusion (GD)-biocathode sensing element was fabricated using a simple method. The GD-biocathode MFC sensor can directly be used for formaldehyde detection (from 0.0005% to 0.005%) in both aerobic and anaerobic water bodies. Electrochemical analysis indicated that the response by the sensor was caused by the toxic inhibition to the microbial activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). This study for the first time demonstrated that the GD-biocathode MFC sensor has a detection limit of 20 ppm for formaldehyde and can be used to monitor air pollution. Selective sensitivity to formaldehyde was not achieved as the result of using a mixed-culture, which confirms that it can serve as a generic biosensor for monitoring gaseous pollutants. This study expands the realm of knowledge for MFC sensor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inefficient extracellular electron transfer within bioanode leads to low current production by microbial fuel cell (MFC). In this study, magnetite was sprinkled in electroactive biofilm with the aid of magnet field. Magnetite located inside biofilm (interior-doped biofilm) facilitated the electron delivery of electroactive bacteria far away from electrode surface. Electron transfer efficiency was improved by 12% and 37% compared with that of biofilms with magnetite located at the interface of biofilm/electrode (surface-doped biofilm) and that without any magnetite (control biofilm) respectively. The output power density of MFC with interior-doped biofilm (764 ± 32 mW m −2 ) was greatly increased compared with that of MFCs with surface-doped biofilm (604 ± 22 mW m −2 ) and control biofilm (475 ± 12 mW m −2 ). SEM images showed that magnetite evenly distributed inside the interior-doped biofilm and penetrated the electroactive biofilm, which would facilitate extracellular electron transfer across electroactive biofilms and thus improving the bioelectricity production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to observe the effects of maternal food restriction (MFR) on the development of fetal thymus in different gestation periods. Timed pregnant rats were randomized into 3 groups: CN (free access to standard chow throughout gestation), MFR 0-21 (50% MFR throughout gestation), MFR 0-14 (50% MFR from gestational day (GD) 0 to GD14, early-mid gestation). Results showed that MFR during early-mid period had few impact on the fetal thymus and T cell subpopulations. However, MFR throughout gestation resulted in thymic atrophy, deceased frequency of both CD4 + and CD8 + single positive (SP) T cells and enhanced thymocyte apoptosis in fetus. Our results suggest the fetal thymus is more vulnerable to the adverse intrauterine environments in the late gestation period, and the decreased number of SP T cells could result from the enhanced thymocyte apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the sulfur transformation in the grading utilization of coal, the forms and distributions of sulfur at different operation parameters and foreign minerals were investigated in coal pyrolysis with solid heat carrier and combustion, respectively. The results show that the increasing pyrolysis temperature increases the sulfur content in the gaseous phase. For the coal with larger particle size, more sulfur will residue in char. The change of the mass ratio of quartz sand to coal and heating rate have little effect on the sulfur distribution in gas, tar and char products. After 3 wt% CaO is introduced to the raw coal, sulfur in gas and tar decreases from 29.68 and 12.16 wt% of the raw coal to 22.31 and 10.66 wt%, respectively. Fe 2 O 3 mainly affects the migration of gaseous sulfur to solid phase sulfur during coal pyrolysis. MgO, NaOH, and KOH have no sulfur fixation effect. The sulfur-fixed efficiencies for 3 wt% CaO and 3 wt% Fe 2 O 3 are 17.17 and 38.16 wt%, respectively. When the contents of CaO and Fe 2 O 3 increase, the sulfate sulfur and sulfide sulfur in the char increase, and the sulfur fixed in ash which obtained from the combustion of char increases. The inhibitory effect of CaO on the secondary release of SO 2 in the combustion stage is stronger than that of Fe 2 O 3 . This paper provides a basic reference for the removal of sulfur during the step conversion of coal pyrolysis and combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensor with bioanode as sensing element delivers limited sensitivity to toxicity monitoring, restricted application to only anaerobic and organic rich water body, and increased potential fault warning to the combined shock of organic matter/toxicity. In this study, the biocathode for oxygen reduction reaction was employed for the first time as the sensing element in MFC sensor for toxicity monitoring. The results shown that the sensitivity of MFC sensor with biocathode sensing element (7.4±2.0 to 67.5±4.0 mA% −1 cm −2 ) was much greater than that showed by bioanode sensing element (3.4±1.5 to 5.5±0.7 mA% −1 cm −2 ). The biocathode sensing element achieved the lowest detection limit reported to date using MFC sensor for formaldehyde detection (0.0005%), while the bioanode was more applicable for higher concentration (>0.0025%). There was a quicker response of biocathode sensing element with the increase of conductivity and dissolved oxygen (DO). The biocathode sensing element made the MFC sensor directly applied to clean water body monitoring, e.g., drinking water and reclaimed water, without the amending of background organic matter, and it also decreased the warning failure when challenged by a combined shock of organic matter/toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A binder-free, pseudocapacitive anode was fabricated by coating reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and manganese oxide (MnO 2 ) nanoparticles on stainless steel fibre felt (SS). Microbial fuel cell (MFC) equipped with this novel anode yielded a maximum power density of 1045 mW m −2 , 20 times higher than that of a similar MFC with a bare SS anode (46 mW m −2 ). Transient-state regulation (TSR) was implemented to further improve the MFC’s power generation. The optimal TSR duty cycle ranged from 67% to 95%, and the MFC’s power density increased with TSR frequency. A maximum power density output of 1238 mW m −2 was achieved at the TSR duty cycle of 75% and the frequency of 1 Hz, 18.4% greater than that obtained from the steady state operation. The TSR mode delivered better MFC performance especially when the external resistance was small. Long-term operation tests revealed that the current density and power density yielded in the TSR mode were on average 15.0% and 32.7% greater than those in the steady state mode, respectively. The TSR mode was believed to reduce the internal resistance of the MFC while enhance substrate mass transfer and electron transfer within the anode matrix, thereby improving the MFC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel anode was developed by coating reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and manganese oxide (MnO 2 ) composite on the carbon felt (CF) surface. With a large surface area and excellent electrical conductivity, this binder-free anode was found to effectively enhance the enrichment and growth of electrochemically active bacteria and facilitate the extracellular electron transfer from the bacteria to the anode. A microbial fuel cell (MFC) equipped with the rGO/MnO 2 /CF anode delivered a maximum power density of 2065 mW m −2 , 154% higher than that with a bare CF anode. The internal resistance of the MFC with this novel anode was 79 Ω, 66% lower than the regular one's (234 Ω). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analyses affirmed that the rGO/MnO 2 composite significantly increased the anodic reaction rates and facilitated the electron transfer from the bacteria to the anode. The findings from this study suggest that the rGO/MnO 2 /CF anode, fabricated via a simple dip-coating and electro-deposition process, could be a promising anode material for high-performance MFC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-six sediment samples were collected from six mariculture sites and corresponding reference sites (approximately 200–300 m away from each mariculture site) to study the effects of mariculture on heavy metal: copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) distribution in sediments and cultured fish around the Pearl River Delta region, south China. The mean concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cr and Pb in all mariculture sediment samples were 109, 273, 99 and 33 mg/kg, compared with 63, 209, 56 and 23 mg/kg for reference sediment samples, respectively. The Pollution Load Index of sediment for each site was over 1, implying substantial heavy metal pollution. The results of principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis indicate that marine aquaculture activities have enriched the surface sediments underneath mariculture rafts with Cu, Zn and Pb, possibly due to the accumulation of unconsumed fish feeds, fish excreta and antifouling paints (except Cr). Two kinds of fish feeds, feed pellets and trash fish commonly used in Hong Kong were analyzed. The concentrations of Zn and Cu contained in feed pellets were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) than in trash fish due to addition of these elements as growth promoters during pellet production. However, the Pb content in trash fish (due to contamination) was significantly higher ( p < 0.05) than in feed pellets. Three cultured fish species, namely red snapper ( Lutjanus campechanus ), orange-spotted grouper ( Epinephelus coioides ) and snubnose pompano ( Trachinotus blochii ), were collected from each mariculture site for metal analysis. Lead concentrations in 21 fish samples exceeded the Chinese safety guideline (0.5 mg/kg, GB18406.4–2001), indicating that Pb contamination in cultured fish would be a public health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A successful pH control is of critical importance for ensuring efficient H 2 production in two-chamber MECs. In this study, a novel two-chamber MEC is developed with biotic/abiotic hybrid electrodes, which are composed of carbon felt (CF) and stainless steel (SS) mesh. The CF is used for the electrogenic microorganisms attachment catalyzing the oxidation of organic matter (OM); the SS serves as the current collector and the H 2 evolution catalyst. The MEC is operated in the periodic polarity reversal (PPR) mode and two hybrid electrodes work alternately as an anode and a cathode. With the hybrid electrodes and the PPR mode, the pH fluctuation is limited within the range of 6.4–8.6, and the H 2 production is 5.3 times that of control without the PPR mode. The optimal reversal interval is 2 h for maximal H 2 production. The H 2 production increases with the amplitude of the applied voltage (0.7–1.0 V). The using of hybrid electrodes, combining with the PPR mode, provides a simple but efficient pH control strategy and better H 2 production performance in MECs. The findings of this study are expected to facilitate the design of pilot-scale MECs or similar bio-electrochemical reactors in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Modified Modal Observability Correlation is proposed to distinguish different modes. • New spurious mode elimination method is proposed to clear the stabilization diagram. • New fully automated modal identification and tracking method is proposed. • The proposed method can be used for closely spaced modes with spatial aliasing. Automated modal identification and tracking provides the key technique for modal parameters based structural condition evaluation. However, the existing automated modal identification and tracking methods have limitations for situation with very few sensors deployed and require manual intervention. This paper proposes a unified fully automated modal identification and tracking method that can be used for structures with many or very few sensors deployed, for closely spaced modes with severe spatial aliasing and for structures with high flexibility or rigidity. A new index, which is called Modified Modal Observability Correlation, is proposed to estimate the similarity of two modes. New spurious mode elimination method and fully automated mode separation and tracking methods are proposed to realize the automated modal identification and tracking. The feasibility and novelty of the proposed method are validated using in-field monitoring data from a long span suspension bridge with high flexibility and a short span bridge with high rigidity and closely spaced modes. Automated modal identification and tracking for situations with many and very few sensors deployed for the two bridges are conducted, and extreme situation of closely spaced modes with spatial aliasing in mode shape is also considered to prove the novelty of the proposed method. Comparisons with existing mainstream methods are also conducted. The results show that the proposed method yields the right identification and tracking results in all situations, showing novelty in automated modal identification and tracking for structures with closely spaced modes having severe spatial aliasing when only very few sensors are deployed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel anode is fabricated by electrodepositing manganese dioxide (MnO 2 ) on carbon felt to promote MFC's power production. Compared to the bare carbon felt anode, when the electrodeposition time increases to 60 min, the anode capacitance improves 46 times. The maximum power density of the MFC with the MnO 2 -coated anode reaches 3580 ± 130 mW m −2 , 24.7% higher than that with the bare carbon felt anode (2870 mW m −2 ). MnO 2 is believed to facilitate extracellular electron transfer and accordingly improve the power output. Three anode substrate circulation modes, i.e., flow-through, side-flow, and no-flow, are applied. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests reveal that flow-through mode decreases the anode mass transfer resistance by 41.4% compared to the no-flow mode and contributes to the MFC's power production improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon and lithium metal are promising anode materials toward high energy densities Li (ion) batteries. However, silicon and lithium generally have dramatic volume change during lithiation/delithiation cycles. With the repeated expansion/shrinkage, the internal stress fluctuations and electrode pulverization can cause high interfacial resistance and the failure of electrodes. Herein, a novel strategy is proposed to engineer the current collector by using a polydopamine-assisted electroless metallization process to prepare an elastic deformable current collector covered with a high electrical conductivity Cu nano-network surface. The deformable current collectors can not only stabilize the interfacial stress as an artificial-spring, but also improve the electrical conductivity of anodes without any binders and conductive agents. Featured with outstanding deformable structure, the well-designed current collector achieves a low surface resistance of 0.06 Ω/sq and excellent electrochemical performance when applied in the commercial Si anode batteries, solid-state batteries, and ionic liquid electrolyte batteries at room-temperature. • A highly elastic and low resistance deformable current collector. • The deformable current collector achieves a low surface resistance of 0.06 Ω/sq. • Stabilized the interface stress of anodes as an artificial-spring. • Improve the electrical conductivity of anodes without binders and conductive agents. • Achieved >400 stable cycling performance when applied in a commercial Si anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new robust and fully automated modal identification approach is established. • The approach is fully automated, robust and can identify the closely spaced modes. • Modified FCM method and intelligent graph partitioning algorithm are introduced. • Precision of the clustering results is estimated using boxplot analysis. • Analysis results of a suspension bridge and a benchmark validate the feasibility. Modal identification has been playing an important role in structural health monitoring. Traditional modal identification process requires too much user interaction and many manually defined thresholds. In this study, a new fully automated modal identification approach is proposed to automatically identify the modal parameters through automatic interpretation of stabilization diagram. The proposed approach works efficiently without any manually tuned threshold or index except some widely used thresholds, is robust to the mere input, and can be used to identify the closely spaced modes. A modified Fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm is proposed to automatically interpret the stabilization diagram, without any specifically tuned index or threshold but only with a default maximum clustering number. The optimal cluster number and desired clustering result can be obtained through an iterative intelligent graph partitioning algorithm. The boxplot is introduced in the last step to assess the precision of the clustering results from a statistical perspective, and outliers can be found and eliminated. The proposed approach is applied to analyze the real monitoring data of a long-span suspension bridge and a benchmark footbridge with closely spaced modes to validate the feasibility, and parametric analysis is also conducted to assess the robustness. It can be concluded from the results that the proposed approach can automatically extract the modal parameters, including the closely spaced modes, with a high accuracy and robustness. The proposed approach provides a reliable and promising method for analyzing the monitoring data from long term structural health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive toxicity of SnS 2 nanoflowers (SnS 2 NFs) has been studied in our previous experiment, but the underlying mechanism is still not clear. Astaxanthin (ASX) is a red carotenoid pigment with antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties, showing neuroprotective properties via its antioxidant capacity. To examine the ASX effect on sub-chronic testis injury induced by SnS 2 NFs, we randomly and equally divided 40 Kunming male mice into four groups (control, ASX control, NF and NF + ASX groups). Then, ASX dissolved in olive oil was administered intragastrically for 30 consecutive days. Results showed that ASX treatment improved the sperm parameters in mice. Meanwhile, the ASX treatment significantly attenuated testis histopathological injury and ultrastructure alterations induced by SnS 2 NFs. It also alleviated testicular oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis and necroptosis in mice. Furthermore, ASX markedly upregulated the expression of Bcl-2 and downregulated the expressions of Fas, FasL, RIPK1, FADD, Bax, Cytochrome C, Caspase-9, Cleaved Caspase-8, Cleaved Caspase-3, RIPK3, MLKL and FLIP in the testis tissues compared with the NF group. Therefore, ASX had a markedly protective effect against SnS 2 NFs in mice, and the potential mechanism is associated with its ability to inhibit the oxidative stress, inflammatory response, testicular apoptosis and necroptosis, as well as downregulating in the expression of the RIPK1-RIPK3-MLKL signaling and mitochondrial related apoptosis genes. • ASX attenuated SnS 2 NF-induced histopathological and ultrastructural changes in mice testes. • ASX alleviated SnS 2 NF-induced oxidative stress in mice testes. • ASX suppressed the RIPK1-RIPK3-MLKL signaling in SnS 2 NFs-treated mice. • ASX ameliorated SnS 2 NF-induced inflammatory response, apoptosis and necroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Visible-light-driven photoreduction of U(VI) is achieved using ZnFe 2 O 4 as catalyst. • 50 ppm of uranium(VI) was almost completely removed in 60 min. • The photocatalytic activity of ZnFe 2 O 4 is dependent on its morphology. • ZnFe 2 O 4 rods own good stability, recyclability and magnetic separability. Visible-light-driven photocatalytic reduction of uranium(VI) is becoming an effective manner to remove uranium(VI) from waste water, whereas applicable catalysts are extremely limited. Herein, we report a first study of visible-light-driven photocatalytic reduction of uranium(VI) using visible light responsive ZnFe 2 O 4. The ZnFe 2 O 4 catalysts with different morphologies were successfully obtained and well characterized. The photoreduction of uranium(VI) under visible light was achieved over these ZnFe 2 O 4 samples with the activity order of rods > microspheres > nanoparticles. Using ZnFe 2 O 4 rods, for example, the 50 ppm of uranium(VI) was almost completely removed in 60 min, representing one of the most effective visible-light-driven photocatalytic removal. The effects of catalyst dosage, hole scavenger (CH 3 OH) dosage and solution pH on the photocatalytic reactions, as well as the photoreduction mechanisms were investigated in detail. In addition, ZnFe 2 O 4 rods own good stability, recyclability and magnetic separability. All these features make ZnFe 2 O 4 a promising photocatalyst for radioactive environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancing the application of bioelectrochemical systems necessitates the comprehensive understanding of electron transfer process in electrode-associated biofilm. While in situ electrical measurement by using the split electrode can illustrate the electron conduction in biofilm, the accuracy and interpretation of the obtained data is still in debate. Here, conductance of Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilm is measured by using the split electrode as substrate concentration is changed. Biofilm conductance decreases with the current production as the consumption of substrate. In addition, the measured conductance increases with the area of drain electrode (13.8 ± 1.8 μS for 0.5 cm2 and 29.4 ± 4.2 μS for 1 cm2). These results suggest the measured conductance of biofilm is influenced by microbial metabolism. This effect will diminish when the measurement is performed by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy or under non-turnover condition. Our results provide the insight on the electrochemical origin of biofilm conductance determined by the in situ electrical measurement. • Biofilm conductance decreased with current production as consumption of substrate. • Biofilm conductance increased with the area of drain electrode. • The measurement of biofilm conductance was influenced by microbial metabolism. • Biofilm conductance significantly decreased under non-turnover condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A new photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) and microbial fuel cell (MFC) process was developed and applied to simultaneously remove refractory organic pollutants (i.e., phenol and aniline) from wastewater while recovering energy for in-situ utilization. The current generated by the MFC process was applied to drive the PEC reaction. Compared with single PEC or MFC processes, the PEC-MFC combined process showed higher pollutant and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal capacities and electricity production. Over 95% of the phenol or aniline was removed by these process, even at high initial concentrations. The COD removal efficiencies for phenol and aniline were ca. 96% (from 700 to 29 mg L−1) and 70% (from 165 to 49 mg L−1), respectively. Although the PEC process showed a limited contribution to phenol and aniline removals (16.5% and 43%, respectively), the utilization of PEC-treated phenol or aniline streams resulted in a MFC with higher voltage output, higher coulombic efficiency, maximal volumetric power density, and lower internal resistance as compared to untreated water. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry measurements revealed quinones/hydroquinones and low molecular weight organic acids to be produced as intermediates after the PEC process, which could improve the production of electricity in the MFC. Highlights • A new process composed of photoelectrocatalysis (PEC) and microbial fuel cell (MFC) was developed. • PEC-MFC may simultaneously remove pollutants and recover energy for in-situ utilization. • The (hydro)Quinones and low-molecular-weight organic acid as products from PEC increase electricity production of MFC. • A consecutive, dynamic adsorption and degradation process in MFC supply stable current to drive PEC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although transition metal oxides anodes have attracted lots of attention, there are still many problems to be resolved. Complicated fabrication process, high cost and poor electrochemical performances are the most important ones, together hindering transition metal oxides anodes for practical use. Herein, we provide a new approach to fabricate a binder-free and conductive-additive-free TiO 2 /WO 3 -W integrative anode material through the nanosecond laser ablation and dip-coating technology, which simplifies the entire anode preparation process with no need for a conventional tape-casting procedure. Using this method, great time cost, machine cost and labor cost related to mixing and tape-casting process can be saved on the basis of good electrochemical performances. The prepared TiO 2 /WO 3 -W integrative anode realizes a first Coulombic efficiency of 75.6% and attains to a stable capacity within the first five cycles. It can still maintain a capacity of 600 mAh g −1 in the range of 0.01–3 V vs. Li + /Li at a current rate of 0.2 C after 500 cycles. This work offers a new way to achieve a fast fabrication of the integrative anode for lithium ion battery, which is universal for other transition metals (such as Fe, Cu, Ni, Co, Mo, W etc.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe the use of a Nu Plasma 1700 multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (MC-ICP-MS) in true high-resolution mode to determine Fe isotopic ratios at the center of Fe peaks instead of their shoulders. A standard-sample bracketing (SSB) technique and a Ni doping method were used for instrumental mass bias calibration. The effects of Fe/Ni ratio and plasma mode were investigated in order to establish a high-precision Fe isotope analysis method. The results showed that the Ni-doping method provided more precision isotopic ratios than that of the SSB technique. Moreover, this work also presents Fe isotopic compositions of some geological reference materials (BCR-2, BHVO-2, AGV-2, GSR-1, GSR-2, GSR-3, GSP-2, and DSN-1), which were highly accurate with respect to the international Fe isotope standard IRMM-014. The iron isotopic compositions of most geological reference materials measured in this study agreed with the previously published data within quoted analytical uncertainties. Long-term reproducibility analyses of all samples indicate that the obtained isotopic ratios are highly reproducible, with precisions of better than ±0.03‰ for δ 56 Fe (2 sd) and ±0.06‰ (2 sd) for δ 57 Fe. Our results demonstrated the usefulness of internal element doping for improving the stability and precision of isotope analysis by MC-ICP-MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial desalination cells are considered a low-energy-consumption, clean technology to simultaneously purify wastewater and desalinate saline water by utilizing the in situ energy source contained in wastewater. To enhance desalination performance and achieve an optimal membrane stack configuration, an enlarged stacked microbial desalination cell (SMDC) has been developed and tested with 6–14 desalination cells. The cross-membrane area of the enlarged SMDC is 100 cm 2 . The anode and cathode volumes are both 200 mL. To reduce internal resistance, the width of desalination cells is kept as <0.5 mm. The optimal configuration with 10 desalination cells achieves the highest total desalination rate (TDR) of 423 mg/h and the highest charge transfer efficiency (CTE) of 836% when treating the 20 g/L NaCl solution. During this process, the junction potential across membranes increases from 0 to 374 mV, and occupies up to 74% of the total potential loss inside the SMDC. This shows that the SMDC used in this work achieves the highest TDR and CTE among the reported studies, and the junction potential should be effectively controlled to achieve the desired desalination performance in future practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane biofouling in membrane bioreactor (MBR), resulted from microbes and their associated extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), is a primary challenge for wide application of MBR. However, the dynamic change of microbes attached on membrane remains little understood. In the study, a pilot MBR was constructed to estimate the effects of online chemical cleaning on membrane biofouling and meanwhile to study the microbial compositions and dynamic change before and after online chemical cleaning. Results showed that the trans-membrane pressure (TMP) increased with running time and online chemical cleaning temporarily eased TMP. Using the scanning electron microscopy, it was clearly observed that the microbes adhered into the EPS and formed biofilm before online chemical cleaning, and the biofilm was disrupted and most microbes on the membrane surface were removed after online chemical cleaning. EPS assay results showed that online chemical cleaning removed most protein and humic substances, but only a little part of polysaccharide. Microbial phylogenetic cluster displayed that some microbes attached on the membrane were clustered together and obviously separated from those in the mixed liquor sludge, indicating the special property of the microbes on the membrane. The microbial community dynamic analysis demonstrated that the dominant group on the membrane was changed from Burkholderiaceae to Flavobacteriaceae and Saprospiraceae after online chemical cleaning. Furthermore, some microbes such as Acinetobacter , Xanthomonas , Cloacibacterium and Flavobacterium were found to repeatedly cause the membrane fouling. The results might be helpful for developing biological-based cleaning method and antifouling strategies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The ultrathin Ni-phyllosilicate was successfully synthesized by ball milling method. • H 2 O 2 played a crucial role of pore-forming reagent to create defects in Ni-phyllosilicate. • Nickel acetylacetonate was the optimal nickel salt precursor to form Ni-phyllosilicate. • Metal utilization rate was significantly improved owing to the ultrathin defect-rich structure. • The optimum catalyst exhibited enhanced low-temperature activity for CO 2 methanation. To address the problems of low metal utilization rate and poor low-temperature activity of the nickel phyllosilicate catalysts for CO 2 methanation, this work prepared ultrathin defect-rich Ni-phyllosilicate through ball milling method in the presence of H 2 O 2 modifier, which simultaneously created active sites with more quantity and higher quality. The instantaneous temperature and high pressure derived from the collision and friction of grinding balls provided driving force for the Ni-phyllosilicate synthesis, and the shear force destroyed the interlayer forces to construct the ultrathin layers. H 2 O 2 molecule could insert the layers and dissociate to O 2 bubbles, whose cavitation effect created holes and defects in the nickel phyllosilicate nanosheets and SiO 2 spheres. H 2 O 2 amount was crucial for the defect construction and the optimum Ni-AA-1H catalyst possessed the ultrathin nanosheet of 0.68 nm and high Ni dispersion of 15.6 %, whose TOF CO2 reached 3.76 × 10−2 s−1 at 160 °C. The in-situ DRIFTS results confirmed the enhanced low-temperature activity and the HCOO− reaction pathway over Ni-AA-1H for CO 2 methanation. Nickel precursor effect was also investigated, and nickel acetylacetonate was determined as the optimal one compared with nickel acetate and nickel chloride, owing to the high steric effect of CH 3 COCHCOCH 3 − group and strong basicity environment during ball milling process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to analyze the soluble portions (SPs) of eight lignites which were obtained by extracting using cyclohexane, methanol and ethanol, respectively, as the solvent. For thermal dissolution at 300 °C using cyclohexane, the intermolecular interactions between mobile phase and macromolecules in coal were weakened. Consequently, non- and low-polar compounds such as alkanes and aromatics were well dissolved. Methanol and ethanol were more likely to closely interact with oxygen-containing functional groups and promoted the breakage of hydrogen bonds and weak covalent bonds. Hierarchical cluster analysis classified all the 24 SPs, and the SPs from cyclohexane and ethanol solvents exhibited more similarity. Partial least squares discriminant analysis was established to reproduce the classification results of SPs entirely and accurately. The SPs were further classified by combining a small number of geochemical characteristic compounds rather than massive GC-MS data. • Three low-rank coals retain the biological properties of numerous aquatic plants. • Data mining provides convenient and accurate classification for coal samples. • PLS-DA classification is determined by differential geochemical characteristic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the oxygen bond cleavage and its migration mechanisms during the pyrolysis process of sub-bituminous coals is essential for their classification utilization. The present study employed a fixed-bed pyrolysis technique (temperature range: 350–600 °C) to explore the cleavage of oxygen-containing bonds and subsequent behavior of oxygen migration and transformation during the pyrolysis process of Naomaohu sub-bituminous coal (NSBC). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results reveal that the organic oxygen in NSBC predominantly exists as the form of C–O bonds, accounting for 22.81 wt% of the total composition, mainly encompassing hydroxyl, carbonyl, ester, and ether groups. The organic oxygen in the light tar is mainly in the form of phenols, reaching 1.71 wt%, of which methyl substituted phenols is predominant at a final pyrolysis temperature of 600 °C. This can be attributed to the presence of more aryl ether bonds and hydroxyl groups in NSBC, which are prone to cleavage at higher temperatures, resulting in the formation of phenoxyl radicals. Additionally, the higher temperature facilitates the weakening of hydrogen bonds between phenolic hydroxyl groups, thereby enhancing the yield of phenolic compounds. The ester compounds present a decreasing trend with increasing temperature, primarily associated with the cleavage temperature of ester linkers being 350 °C, suggesting that an increase in temperature favors the cleavage of ester bonds. In addition, the cleavage of C–O bonds begins to accelerate significantly during the pyrolysis temperature range of 450–500 °C, subsequently accounting for the pronounced proliferation of phenols within this specific thermal interval. The oxygen content in semi-coke decreased with the increase of temperature, from 85.27 wt% at 350 °C to 37.17 wt% at 600 °C, while the oxygen content in the pyrolysis gas increases from 11.63 wt% at 350 °C to 47.53 wt% at 600 °C, indicating that a significant migration of organic oxygen to the pyrolysis gas during the pyrolysis of NSBC. This study can deepen the understanding of the transformation mechanism of oxygen-containing structure in NSBC pyrolysis process, and provide a theoretical basis for high-grade utilization of low-rank coals. [Display omitted] • Elevated temperatures promote the migration of organic oxygen into volatile products. • The breaking of organic oxygen bonds depends mainly on temperature. • High temperatures favor the breaking of aryl ether bonds to form phenols. • Cleavage of aryl alkyl ethers at 350–450 °C leads to a large increase in alcohols. • The release of volatile oxygenates leads to a reduction in the oxygen content of the coke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrically conductive membrane possesses a remarkable performance in antifouling with the assistance of applied external electric fields. However, its widespread application is hampered due to the poor properties of existing conductive membranes, such as low conductivity and inadequate strength. The present study demonstrates a novel in-situ combination approach for the fabrication of a highly conductive carbon nanotube (CNT)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane. During membrane fabrication, the casting solution film was pre-mantled with a CNT layer before the occurrence of polymer precipitation, thereby ensuring a natural and tight in-situ mergence between the CNT layer and supporting PVDF. The obtained CNT/PVDF membrane was characterized in terms of physicochemical properties and filtration performance. An electrically-enhanced cross-flow filtration system was devised to evaluate the antifouling performance of the pristine PVDF and CNT/PVDF membranes. Compared with the pristine PVDF membrane, the CNT/PVDF membrane possesses a greater electrical conductivity and a higher permeability. The incorporation of the CNT layer led to a completely different surface composition in terms of elemental components and functional groups. Being used as a cathode, the CNT/PVDF membrane exhibited a remarkable antifouling performance in the presence of external electric fields, and performed better in a 0 V/2 V-pulsed mode as compared with a 2 V-constant mode. This in-situ combination method provides a simple and practical approach for the fabrication of composite conductive membranes, suggesting promising applications in various membrane-fabrication areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing evidence has shown that AdipoRon, a synthetic adiponectin receptor agonist, is involved in the regulation of whole-body insulin sensitivity and energy homeostasis. However, the mechanisms underlying these alterations remain unclear. Here, using hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp and isotopic tracing techniques, we show that short-term (10 days) AdipoRon administration indirectly inhibits lipolysis in white adipose tissue via increasing circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 21 in mice fed a high-fat diet. This led to reduced plasma-free fatty acid concentrations and improved lipidinduced whole-body insulin resistance. In contrast, we found that long-term (20 days) AdipoRon administration directly exacerbated white adipose tissue lipolysis, increased hepatic gluconeogenesis, and impaired the tricarboxylic acid cycle in the skeletal muscle, resulting in aggravated whole-body insulin resistance. Together, these data provide new insights into the comprehensive understanding of multifaceted functional complexity of AdipoRon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compositional distribution of pyrolysis products is related to the molecular structure of coal and pyrolysis parameters. In this study, gaseous products generated from the pyrolysis of two low-rank coals were analyzed by an online home-built infrared detection system. The effect of heating rate and temperature on compositional distribution was considered and evaluated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), and Orbitrap-MS were employed to analyze other pyrolysis products such as raw coals, chars, and tars. In the pyrolysis process, oxygen-containing compounds in coal were the first species to participate in pyrolysis reactions. With the enhancement of temperature, the content of aromatic hydrocarbons showed an increasing trend, and the contents of aliphatic hydrocarbons and oxygenates decreased. In the four major pyrolysis gases, the yield of H 2 was the highest and the lowest for CO 2. In addition, dynamic curves of the main pyrolysis gas were obtained, and the activation energies of pyrolysis gases were calculated by Ozawa-Flynn-Wall's (OFW) method. The possible generation pathways of gaseous products were proposed. • Online infrared device was used to study the release behavior of pyrolysis gas. • The transformation path of pyrolysis products is proposed. • The effect of secondary reaction on the product was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An anaerobic–aerobic-coupled upflow bioelectrochemical reactor was constructed. • Intermittent electrical stimulation mode promoted phenolics degradation. • Aerobic cathodic chamber showed high contribution to the phenolics removal. • Specific microbes were enriched in the cathodic and anodic chambers of the system. Phenolics were widespread in the effluents of coal gasification plants and oil refineries processes, while the impact of electrical stimulation on phenolics degradation in the combined biological processes remained unclear. Here, a novel anaerobic–aerobic–coupled upflow bioelectrochemical reactor (AO-UBER) was used to treat phenol-containing synthetic wastewater and simulated phenolic wastewater. The AO-UBER could treat phenolic compounds effectively via electrical stimulation. Phenol and total phenol removal efficiencies in the intermittently electrically stimulated system with a hydraulic retention time of 6 h were about 22.6% and 31.1%, respectively, higher than that in the biological system not exposed to voltage. The contribution of the aerobic cathodic chamber to the removal of phenolic compounds was higher than that of the anaerobic anodic chamber under the intermittent voltage application mode. High-throughput sequencing analysis indicated that electrical stimulation selectively enriched Acinetobacter , Cloacibacterium , Acidovorax, and Zoogloea in the phenol-containing synthetic wastewater treatment process, and Rhodococcus , Achromobacter , Chryseobacterium, and PSB-M-3 in the simulated phenolic wastewater treatment process. These results demonstrate that the AO-UBER under intermittent voltage application mode holds good potential for efficient phenolic wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An anaerobic–aerobic-coupled upflow bioelectrochemical reactor was constructed. • Intermittent electrical stimulation mode promoted phenolics degradation. • Aerobic cathodic chamber showed high contribution to the phenolics removal. • Specific microbes were enriched in the cathodic and anodic chambers of the system. Phenolics were widespread in the effluents of coal gasification plants and oil refineries processes, while the impact of electrical stimulation on phenolics degradation in the combined biological processes remained unclear. Here, a novel anaerobic–aerobic–coupled upflow bioelectrochemical reactor (AO-UBER) was used to treat phenol-containing synthetic wastewater and simulated phenolic wastewater. The AO-UBER could treat phenolic compounds effectively via electrical stimulation. Phenol and total phenol removal efficiencies in the intermittently electrically stimulated system with a hydraulic retention time of 6 h were about 22.6% and 31.1%, respectively, higher than that in the biological system not exposed to voltage. The contribution of the aerobic cathodic chamber to the removal of phenolic compounds was higher than that of the anaerobic anodic chamber under the intermittent voltage application mode. High-throughput sequencing analysis indicated that electrical stimulation selectively enriched Acinetobacter , Cloacibacterium , Acidovorax, and Zoogloea in the phenol-containing synthetic wastewater treatment process, and Rhodococcus , Achromobacter , Chryseobacterium, and PSB-M-3 in the simulated phenolic wastewater treatment process. These results demonstrate that the AO-UBER under intermittent voltage application mode holds good potential for efficient phenolic wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As serious water ecological pollution caused by toxicant leakage occurs frequently, early-warning for toxicity presented in water environment attracts increasing attentions as it saves time to retain water safety and human health. Electrochemically active biofilm (EAB) sensor is a promising device for in situ real-time water toxicity early-warning. To improve the sensitivity of EAB sensor particularly for low-concentration toxicity warning, this study employed titanium mesh (TiM) as the anode to construct an EAB sensor. Compared to traditional EAB sensor with carbon felt (CF) anode, the sensitivity of the TiM sensor was increased up to 37.4 times. The effects of mesh size (TiM50, TiM100, TiM150) and operation mode (flow-by and flow-through) on the sensitivity of TiM sensors were further investigated. Results showed the sensor with TiM100 anode had the highest inhibition rate (IR) in flow-by mode, attributed to low charge transfer resistance (R ct) and fast mass transfer. Flow-through operation could further enhance TiM100 sensor's sensitivity from flow-by operation and succeeded to signal as low as 0.0025% formaldehyde, the lowest so far tested in EAB sensor with sensing anode. Multiple toxicity shocks on flow-through TiM100 sensor revealed its good recoverability towards all tested formaldehyde concentration from 0.01% to 0.0025%, during which electrochemical activity degradation and biomass accumulation partially impaired the repeatability. This work highlights the great improvement of EAB sensors by utilizing titanium mesh as EAB carrier and provides a reference for the practical application of metallic materials for EAB sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• EqCmu has the characteristics of non-classically secreted proteins. • Non-classically secreted EqCmu may serve as a "moonlighting" protein. • Non-classical protein secretion may be a common strategy in powdery mildew fungi. Pathogens secrete effectors to establish a successful interaction with their host. It is well understood that plant pathogens recruit classically secreted chorismate mutase (Cmu) as an effector to disrupt plant salicylic acid (SA) synthesis. However, the identity and function of the Cmu effector from powdery mildew fungi remain unknown. Here, we identified a novel secreted Cmu effector, EqCmu, from rubber (Hevea brasiliensis Muell) powdery mildew fungus (Erysiphe quercicola). Unlike the classically secreted Cmu, EqCmu lack signal peptide, and exhibited characteristics of non-classically secreted proteins. EqCmu could fully complement a Saccharomyces cerevisiae ScAro7 mutant that was deficient in the synthesis of phenylalanine and tyrosine. In addition, transient expression of EqCmu could promote infection by Phytophthora capsici and reduce the levels of SA and the mRNA of PR1 gene in Nicotiana benthamiana in response to P. capsici infection, while confocal observations showed that EqCmu was localized within the cytoplasm and nucleus of transfected N. benthamiana leaf cells. These non-homologous systems assays provide evidences that EqCmu may serve as a "moonlighting" protein, which is not only a key enzyme in the synthesis of phenylalanine and tyrosine within fungal cells, but also has the function of regulating plant SA synthesis within plant cells. This is the first study to identify and functionally validate a candidate effector from E. quercicola. Overall, the non-classical secretion pathway is a novel mechanism for powdery mildew fungal effectors secretion and might play an important role in host–pathogen interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a viable wastewater treatment and energy recovery technology, microbial fuel cell (MFC) requires more research with regard to the simultaneous achievement of high-quality effluent and high power generation. In this study, a novel flow-through carbon-based composite anode configuration is proposed, which combines the carbon cloth of two-dimensional anode with wooden granular activated carbon of three-dimensional anode. The proposed configuration enhances the performance of power production and chemical oxygen demand degradation by promoting the mass transfer, reducing internal resistance and increasing bioburden. Microbial fuel cell with the composite anode exhibited the highest maximum power density (1300 ± 50 mW m−2) and the highest chemical oxygen demand removal rate constant (0.155 ± 0.007 h−1) compared with the microbial fuel cell using the carbon cloth anode (1136 ± 46 mW m−2 and 0.072 ± 0.008 h−1) or the wooden granular activated carbon anode (1045 ± 32 mW m−2 and 0.129 ± 0.009 h−1). Meanwhile, at a lower chemical oxygen demand concentration (about 48 mg L−1), the microbial fuel cell with the composite anode maintained a current density of 2.4 A m−2, which is 18% higher than the wooden granular activated carbon anode (2.04 A m−2) and 400% higher than the carbon cloth anode (0.48 A m−2). The cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests confirmed that the composite anodes displayed better electrochemical performance. Improving the flow rate and reducing the external resistance could effectively enhance the power production and chemical oxygen demand removal performance of microbial fuel cells, while the computational fluid dynamics simulation intuitively demonstrated the positive effect of the composite anode on chemical oxygen demand degradation. These results suggest that the flow-through composite anode provides a feasible strategy to simultaneously enhance the power generation and improve the effluent quality. Image 1 • A composite anode was constructed by optimizing 2D and 3D carbon anode materials.. • Flow-through composite anode MFC had higher power generation and COD removal rate. • Flow-through composite anode MFC maintained high power generation at low COD. • Reducing external resistance and improving flow rate enhanced the MFC performance. • Flow-through composite anode MFC was proved better COD removal in CFD simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur autotrophic denitrification is a feasible option for nitrate removal from wastewater. Element sulfur (So) can be utilized as an electron donor to enhance denitrification processes, with So metabolism playing an important role. The general concern with the use of So as an electron donor is the conversion and transfer of So, since So hardly dissolves in water. The conversion of So and the transfer of intermediates in So-based biofilms was investigated by applying a negative potential in a denitrification reactor with a So-carbon black cathode. The nitrate reduction rate was greatly increased, while nitrite accumulation was limited. When the cathode was prepared with equal volumes of element sulfur and carbon black powder, the nitrogen removal rate could reach 1.03 ± 0.00 g/m2/d. Half-order rates still applied to the reactions with applied potential, indicating that So-based denitrification was the dominant process. Raman analysis and cyclic voltammetry experiments suggested that reduced sulfur species (S x 2−) were generated in a So-based biofilm with a negative potential, their transfer was stimulated, and the sulfur related bacterial community was enhanced. It could be concluded that applying a negative potential improved the conversion and transfer of sulfur species, and thereby promote So-based denitrification process. Image 1 • So-CB cathode prepared for potential regulation to improve denitrification rates. • So-based denitrification was found to be dominant process in reactors. • S x 2− was generated during the conversion process of So. • Sulfur related bacteria were all enhanced on So-CB cathodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semicoke derived from lignite and biomass has been utilized in soil remediation and activated sludge treatment. Nitrogen-doping treatment has been utilized to improve adsorption capacity of semicoke for phenols (such as humic acids). Known as nitrogen-rich biomass residue, spent coffee grounds (SCG) may serve as nitrogen resources when co-pyrolyzed with lignite. But impacts of SCG on structure and adsorption capacity of semicoke in co-pyrolysis have not been confirmed. In consideration of proteins in SCG, nitrogen fixation and the impacting mechanism have not been sufficiently confirmed. In this work, nitrogen fixation between lignite and SCG during co-pyrolysis were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and pyrolysis experiments. Corresponding mechanism were speculated and confirmed by in-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transformation spectra (DRIFT) and mass spectrum (MS). Impacts of nitrogen fixation on adsorption of phenols on semicoke were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), adsorption kinetics analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Compared to theoretical values, higher contents of N have been obtained in co-pyrolyzed semicoke (N: 2.89%; pyridinic N: 44.86%), which implied N fixation and cyclization reactions. Fixation mechanism can be explained by formation of Amadori/Heyns intermediates in Maillard reactions. Release of volatiles and capture of NH 3 are crucial in 340–440 °C range, which result in nitrogen fixation. Then formation of pyrrolic and pyridinic N can be explained by cyclization reactions and decomposition of Amadori/Heyns intermediates in 550 °C pyrolysis. Enrichment of pyridinic N, pyrrolic N and C O might enhance adsorption of phenols by offering binding sites for formation of hydrogen bonds. Both C, N fixation and improved adsorption capacity (27.80 mg/g) have been realized for 7:3–550 semicoke. Consequently, doping treatment with typical nitrogen-rich biomass (SCG) may be feasible to enhance adsorption of phenols onto semicoke, based on selection of raw materials and pyrolysis conditions. • N-rich biomass residue and lignite were co-pyrolyzed for nitrogen fixation. • Role of Maillard reactions in nitrogen fixation was emphasized. • Co-pyrolysis conditions can be selected based on structure-activity relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Seasonal change was observed with algal density but not algal community. • Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta were the dominant phyla. • Light intensity, nitrogen and metal ions were the influential factors. • ARIMA model effectively simulated the dynamics of algal density. Algal bloom control in rivers replenished by reclaimed water has drawn attentions. Aiming at precisely simulating and forecasting the algal density, a typical downstream urban river replenished by reclaimed water was monitored and investigated in aspects of the water quality, algal density, algal community. Parameters of water quality revealed the typical feature of reclaimed water, with high concentration of nitrogen. Algal density dropped gradually from spring to the late autumn, indicating that spring was of high risk of algal bloom. Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta were identified as the dominant phyla, and Chlorella (belonged to Chlorophyta), Cyclotella (belonged to Bacillariophyta) and Coscinodiscus (belonged to Bacillariophyta) were the dominant species. Both statistical analysis and model simulation revealed that light intensity, nitrogen and metal ions were the influential factors of algal growth in the river. Simulation of the change of algal density using AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model (0, 0, 15) was effective with all the simulated value in the 95% confidence interval, making it feasible to the practical forecast of algal bloom in urban rivers, especially those which are replenished by reclaimed water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric flat-sheet membrane (FS) and ceramic flat-tubular membrane (CM) are the most widely-used membranes in anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR). However, fouling mechanism on FS and CM were rarely compared before and needed to be deeply illuminated. In this work, distinction of irremovable fouling formed on polyvinylidene fluoride FS and Al 2 O 3 CM in AnMBR treating municipal wastewater was studied. Lab-scale AnMBR operation showed that FS presented severer irremovable fouling and faster fouling rate. Foulants characterization revealed that irremovable fouling of FS was composed of more organics (FS = 0.91, CM = 0.35 g-TOC/m2-membrane) and biomass (FS = 47.3, CM = 8.65 × 1010 cell/m2-membrane), leading to gel layer loosely structured. Conversely, irremovable fouling of CM contained more inorganics (FS = 0.08, CM = 0.55 g/m2-membrane), facilitating dense gel layer with larger specific filtration resistance. Membrane cleaning tests found that gel layer on FS was efficiently removed by NaClO, while gel layer on CM was loosened by NaClO but destructed by citric acid. NaClO/NaOH both reduced resident bacteria, whereas increased the proportion of live cells. Irreversible fouling on FS involved more organics while more inorganics on CM. Irreversible biofouling could utilize citric acid as substrate for metabolism and proliferation. This study not only helps to probe fouling mechanism with different membrane materials, but also aids to develop differentiated effective cleaning strategy to corresponding membrane modules. Image 1 • Loosely structured gel layer on polymeric membrane contains more organics and biomass. • Dense and robust gel layer on ceramic membrane comprises more inorganics. • Gel layer on polymeric membrane is removed by NaClO degrading organics. • Gel layer on ceramic membrane is loosened by NaClO but destructed by citric acid. • NaClO reduces biomass on both membranes but increases the proportion of live cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of real-time online warning system for toxicity materials is important to ensure the safety of water supply. This study for the first time constructs luminescent bacteria (Vibrio fischeri) biofilm to deliver both electrical and optical real-time response for Cu(II) toxic shock in a bioelectrochemical system (BES) sensor. Compared to biocathode, bioanode was more suitable as sensitive elements. With three tested concentrations of Cu(II), i.e., 1 mg/L, 3 mg/L and 6 mg/L, electrical signals were raised. But optical signal failed to respond to the lowest concentration, suggesting that electrical signal then was produced by chemical reaction of Cu(II) on the electrode surface. For 3 mg/L and 6 mg/L Cu(II) shock, more rapid optical signals were observed than electrical signal, indicating that both the biofilm's surface and inner was affected. In addition, high concentration of Cu(II) toxic as 6 mg/L caused irreversible damage in the biosensor as there were great fluctuation in the recovery curve and large recovery ratio up to -10.39% for optical signal. These results provided a comparison between optical and electrical signals simultaneously produced by a biosensor and visual evidences for better understanding of the toxicity process in the biosensor. Image 1 • Luminescent bacteria biofilm was constructed as a sensing element. • Simultaneously production of photons and electrons by Vibrio fischeri biofilm. • Compatible Vibrio fischeri biofilm as bioanode rather than biocathode with biosensor. • Both optical and electrical signals respond to Cu2+ shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The content of H 2 S is positively correlated with that of H 2. • Fe 2 O 3 , CaO, and MgO are main components for sulfur fixation and tar catalysis. • CFB ash and dolomite have the ability to promote the removal of sulfur from tar. • Ash and dolomite can improve the cleavage reactions of thiopyrans and thiazoles. For investigating the effectiveness of ash and dolomite on the migration of sulfur from coal pyrolysis volatiles, pyrolysis experiments of Xinzhou high-sulfur bitumite were executed in a self-designed reactor. The influences of heat carrier species, mass ratios of ash to coal, and ash particle sizes on the sulfur content in products were investigated. More importantly, the composition of sulfur-containing compound in tar was analyzed. The effect of different heat carriers on the volatiles was in the order of ash > fresh dolomite > deactivated dolomite. With ash and dolomite as heat carriers, H 2 and CO decreased, and CO 2 increased. In addition, H 2 S content was positively correlated with H 2 content. The deactivated dolomite contains a large amount of CaS and MgS, and its influence on pyrolysis volatiles was weaker than that of fresh dolomite and CFB ash. When fresh and deactivated dolomites were used as heat carriers, the sulfur contents in tar and in heat carrier were higher than that in ash. Fe 2 O 3 , CaO, and MgO were the main components for sulfur fixation and tar catalysis in heat carriers. Mercaptan was easily oxidized by metal oxides. Ash and dolomite heat carriers had a certain catalytic effect on the cleavage reactions of thiopyrans and thiazoles. This research is worth for the purification of sulfur-containing pollutants in coal pyrolysis process by ash and dolomite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Laser ablation technology is a high-efficient way to fabricate nanomaterials in-situ on the targets. In this paper, we prepare MoO 3 Mo integrated anode through ablation treatment by nanosecond laser and further realize a variety of morphologies of MoO 3 through adjustment of focal length. The electrochemical performances of the new obtained products are notably improved. It exhibits a higher initial Coulombic Efficiency of 85.72% in comparison with the figure of 76.16% before. Moreover, the stable cyclic performance is also extended obviously from 180 cycles to at least 400 cycles, maintaining specific capacity at around 900 mAh g−1. At last, the formation mechanism of MoO 3 Mo with different morphologies are studied. Highlights • MoO 3 Mo integrated anode is fabricated with nanosecond laser in several minutes. • Its electrochemical performance is notably improved through focal length adjustment. • It achieves a high initial Coulombic Efficiency of 85.72%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A facile method was developed to synthesize regenerable and H 2 O resistance sorbent for Hg0 removal. • The Ag nanoparticles were successively confined inside the mesoporous channels of MCM-41 molecule sieve. • The nanoconfinement effect is conducive to excellent Hg0 removal performance and regeneration ability. • The high hydrophobicity of Ag/MCM-41 is beneficial for the resistance to H 2 O. Abstract A facile passivation treatment and amino functionalized method was developed for controllable synthesis of effective and water-resistant Ag/MCM-41 composite sorbent for Hg0 removal in natural gas. The Ag nanoparticles were successively confined inside the mesoporous channels of MCM-41 molecule sieve with an average diameter of 3 nm. The synthesized sorbent was found to achieve a complete removal of Hg0 at high space velocity of 50,000 h−1 in ambient temperature. At 5% breakthrough, the Hg0 capture capacity of 1% (wt%) silver loaded Ag/MCM-41 was as high as 6.64 mg·g−1, which is much higher than the sample of Ag loaded outside of the pore channels (S-Ag/MCM-41) and other existing commercial sorbents. The H 2 O has negligible inhibitory effect on Hg0 removal performance of Ag/MCM-41. In addition, the spent Ag/MCM-41 could be easily regenerated without significant performance degradation over five cycles. We considered the high Hg0 capture efficiency, large adsorption capacity and excellent regeneration performance of Ag/MCM-41 are contributed to the nanoconfinement effect of mesoporous channels of MCM-41 molecule sieve which effectively prevented the growth and agglomeration of Ag nanoparticles. The good hydrophobicity of Ag/MCM-41 is beneficial for the high resistance to H 2 O. This work represents a giant step toward the preparation of effective sorbent for practical applications of Hg0 removal in natural gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Methylmercury (MeHg) can accumulate in rice and this has been demonstrated to be an important human MeHg exposure pathway. How to reduce MeHg concentrations in rice grains has therefore become a very important public health issue. Previous studies have investigated the role of plant biochars on Hg bioavailability in soils but knowledge of the influence of sewage sludge biochars (SSB) on MeHg formation and bioaccumulation in different soils is lacking. In the present study, SSB was applied to two Hg-contaminated soils, one acid and the other calcareous, in an attempt to stabilize MeHg in the soil and further mitigate MeHg accumulation in rice grains. The results indicate that the presence of SSB may promote Hg methylation in an acid soil. Moreover, MeHg concentrations increased gradually during rice growth, perhaps due to the release of root exudates. SSB can inhibit both MeHg and total Hg (THg) accumulation in different rice tissues. Both MeHg and THg decreased in the rice grains by up to 73.4 and 81.9%, respectively. However, the inhibitory effect was less pronounced in a calcareous soil. This study further demonstrates that biochar application can inhibit MeHg accumulation in soils despite the promotion of MeHg formation in soil by SSB application. However, an effect of biochar on MeHg accumulation was observed only in the acid soil. These results are useful in managing applications of biochars to Hg-contaminated paddy fields. Highlights • SSB application reduced MeHg accumulation in rice in acid soil. • SSB application resulted in the increase of MeHg concentration in acid soil. • MeHg accumulation in rice root decreased during rice growth period. • Release of rice root exudates lowered soil pH and further promoted MeHg formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]