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Sealing performance between two contacting surfaces is of significant importance to stable operation of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. In this work, an analytical micro-scale approach is first established to predict the gas leakage in fuel cells. Gas pressure and uneven pressure distribution at the interface are also included in the model. At first, the micro tortuous leakage path at the interface is constructed by introducing contact modelling and fractal porous structure theory. In order to obtain the leakage at the entire surface, contact pressure distribution is predicted based on bonded elastic layer model. The gas leakage through the discontinuous interface can be obtained with consideration of convection and diffusion. Then, experiments are conducted to validate the numerical model, and good agreement is obtained between them. Finally, influences of surface topology, gasket compression and gasket width on leakage are studied based on the model. The results show that gas leakage would be greatly amplified when the asperity standard deviation of surface roughness exceeds 1.0 μm. Gaskets with larger width and smaller thickness are beneficial to sealing performance. The model is helpful to understand the gas leakage behavior at the interface and guide the gasket design of fuel cells. [Display omitted] • An analytical model is built to predict gas leakage rate in fuel cells. • Uneven pressure distribution at the interface is considered in the model. • Leakage is amplified when asperity height standard deviation exceeds 1.0 μm. • Leakage becomes serious when gasket compression ratio is lower than 8%. • Gaskets with larger width and smaller thickness are beneficial to sealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

[Display omitted] • The Sn(II)/Sn(IV)-doped CeZrO x catalysts were prepared by co-precipitation method. • Diethylamine combustion over CeZrSnO x -(Sn2+) had high activity and N 2 selectivity. • CeZrSnO x -(Sn2+) showed high hydrothermal stability during diethylamine combustion. • The ratio of Sn2+/Sn4+ had a significant impact on the catalytic activity. • The strong acidic sites on the catalyst were conducive to diethylamine combustion. The synthesis of CeZrSnO x by co-precipitation with different valence-state of Sn for diethylamine combustion is novel and intriguing. In this research, the Sn(II)/Sn(IV)-doped CeZrO x catalysts (CeZr(Sn)O x -(Sn2+) and CeZr(Sn)O x -(Sn4+)) were facilely prepared using the co-precipitation method, and their catalytic activities on destruction of diethylamine were evaluated. Detailed characterizations of the catalysts were conducted using X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), hydrogen-temperature programmed reduction (H 2 -TPR), temperature programmed ammonia desorption (NH 3 -TPD) and so on. For diethylamine combustion, CeZr(Sn)O x -(Sn2+) showed higher activity and nitrogen selectivity than other catalysts, and a high conversion of diethylamine (>90 %) at 250 °C was obtained. After hydrothermal aging treatment, a high conversion (>90 %) and high N 2 selectivity maintained over CeZr(Sn)O x -(Sn2+)-H at 280 °C, indicating high hydrothermal stability of CeZr(Sn)O x -Sn2+. Owe to the large specific surface area (SSA), high oxygen mobility and strong redox performance, and the synergy between metal elements in CeZr(Sn)O x -Sn2+ catalysts, the catalytic properties were enhanced. Moreover, Sn2+/Sn4+ ratio in the catalyst and strong acidic sites on the surface of the catalyst both had significant impacts on the catalytic activity and N 2 selectivity of the catalyst. Finally, the mechanism of diethylamine combustion over CeZr(Sn)O x -Sn2+ was obtained by analyzing the reaction through in-situ diffuse reflection infrared Fourier-transform spectrum (in situ DRIFTS) test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [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]

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]

• The mechanisms for organocatalytic synthesis of chiral allene by racemic propargylic alcohol and 3-phenylindole were proposed. • Eight possible reaction pathways were found after the dehydration process. • The intermolecular interactions including HBs and π-π interactions play crucial roles in determining the enantioselectivity. Organocatalytic synthesis of chiral allene can be successfully achieved through the reaction between propargylic alcohol and 3-phenylindole catalyzed by chiral phosphoric acid with high yield and high enantioselectivity. The detailed reaction mechanism and origin of enantioselectivity were uncovered by quantum mechanical calculations. The results indicate that the reactions undergo the dehydration process, the C–C bonding reaction, the hydrogen abstraction and the regeneration of catalyst. Eight possible pathways were found and the most favorable reaction paths leading to the major and minor products were evaluated which were consistent with the experimental results. The distortion/interaction analyses of the transition states in enantioselectivity-determining steps confirm the most favorable pathway in leading the major product. QTAIM and IGM analyses are used to illustrate the role of intermolecular interactions. EDA analysis is also employed to understand the origin of selectivity. This work would provide insightful viewpoints on the asymmetric organocatalytic reaction by chiral phosphoric acid. [Display omitted] [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]

• An automatic identification method of abnormal vibrations for stay-cables is proposed. • Two feature indices distinguishing the VIV from ambient vibration are proposed. • Minimum Euclidean Distance Classifier is utilized to automate the identification process. • Field monitoring data are used to validate the feasibility. Online automatic monitoring of abnormal vibrations, such as vortex-induced vibration (VIV) and high amplitude vibration (HAV), of stay-cables is important for bridge maintenance. However, the existing methods either require manual intervention or yield unreasonable identification results and are not suitable for online automatic monitoring. This study proposes a fully automatic method to identify the abnormal vibrations of stay-cables based on acceleration data. Two quantified feature indices are extracted from frequency domain and complex domain to characterize the VIV. A feature vector is established to distinguish the VIV from ambient vibration, and Minimum Euclidean Distance Classifier is utilized to automate the online identification process. The HAV is automatically identified based on root mean square of acceleration. The proposed method avoids any manual intervention and can yield correct and convincible identification results. Case study of a cable-stayed bridge finally validates the feasibility and novelty of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water-lubricated bearing in ship propulsion system is easily impacted by sea wave shock, which is a great threat to the smooth start-up of the bearing system. Therefore, in the present research, the Euler equations, average Reynolds equation, and sea wave shock function are combined together to build the start-up model of water-lubricated bearing. The influences of amplitude, direction, and entry time of sea wave shock on the start-up performance of bearing are studied. The result shows that the shaft has a strong instantaneous vibration under the influence of friction force at the initial start-up stage, and the shock load with appropriate direction and amplitude can suppress or even eliminate this vibration phenomenon. The earlier the shock enters the start-up process, the more serious asperity contact gets, and the worse the system's stability becomes. The increase of the shock load amplitude and the advance of the shock load entry time can help the shaft rapidly lift off. This study can provide a reference for the smooth start-up of ship propulsion system in a sea wave environment. • External force can be actively applied to suppress shaft vibration during start-up. • The later the shock load enters, the more conducive it is to smooth start-up. • With the increase of shock load amplitude, shaft's lift-off time shortens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the impact of precursor preparation methods of biomass-derived carbon materials were investigated. Hydrothermal treatment with phosphoric acid solution, hydrothermal treatment with water, and direct pyrolysis were applied to prepare the carbon precursors from Pleurotus ostreatus stipe. Potassium hydroxide was applied for further precursor activation. The physicochemical characteristics of carbons were tested by X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, nitrogen sorption, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and so on. Moreover, the electrochemical data of these carbon material based supercapacitors were collected by using an electrochemical workstation with Na 2 SO 4 solution as electrolyte. Certain differences, such as surface morphology, specific surface area and elemental composition, were observed for carbon from different precursor preparation methods. The contents of C= O/carboxylic C (32.83%) and C–N/C–O–C (27.38%) of carbon obtained by directly pyrolysis and further potassium hydroxide activation (PCK) were higher than other carbon. PCK as electrode in supercapacitor had higher specific capacitance than Pleurotus ostreatus -derived carbon materials. Much vertical Nyquist plot and small diameters of the semicycle for PCK were observed. After the continuous charge/discharge test for 10000 cycles, the supercapacitor using PCK as electrode still keeps about 98% of its initial value. • Three kinds of biomass-derived carbon precursor preparation methods were study. • Carbon from different precursors are different in physicochemical properties. • The electrochemical performances of the electrode materials were tested. • PCK as electrode in supercapacitor show better electrochemical performance. • Pyrolysis to obtain precursor is more fit to prepare carbon for supercapacitor. [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]

Deep learning techniques have gained significant interest due to their success in large model scenarios. However, large models often require massive computational resources, which can challenge end devices with limited storage capabilities. Transferring knowledge from big to small models and achieving similar results with limited resources requires further research. Knowledge distillation techniques, which involve using teacher-student models to migrate large model capabilities to small models, have been widely used in model compression and knowledge transfer. In this paper, a novel knowledge distillation approach is proposed, which utilizes the sparse attention mechanism (SAKD). SAKD computes attention using student features as queries and teacher features as key values and performs sparse attention values by random deactivation. Then, this sparse attention value is used to reweight the feature distance of each teacher-student feature pair to avoid negative transfer. Comprehensive experiments demonstrate the effectiveness and generality of our approach. Moreover, our SAKD method outperforms previous state-of-the-art methods on image classification tasks. • Propose a novel knowledge distillation approach utilizing the sparse attention mechanism (SAKD). • Use student features as queries and teacher features as key values and performs sparse attention values by random deactivation. • Use sparse attention value to reweight the feature distance of each teacher-student feature pair to avoid negative transfer. • SAKD method outperforms previous state-of-the-art methods on image classification tasks (CIFAR-100 and ImageNet). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Getah virus (GETV) is a mosquito-transmitted disease that affects animals, causing fever, aseptic meningitis, and abortion. Its prevalence in China poses risks to both animal health and public well-being. Currently, there is a scarcity of seroepidemiological data on GETV due to the absence of commercial antibody detection kits for pigs. The aim of this study is to develop a rapid, accurate, and sensitive ELISA, providing a reliable tool for GETV seroepidemiology and laying the foundation for future commercial assay development. In this study, we removed specific hydrophobic domains and intracellular structures from E2 proteins and constructed the recombinant plasmid pCold-TF-E2. The recombinant protein was expressed using a prokaryotic expression system, and efficient purification of the rE2 protein was achieved using a nickel affinity column. The purified rE2 protein is suitable for the development of an indirect ELISA (rE2 ELISA). Following the optimization of reaction conditions for the rE2-ELISA, the cut-off value was 0.356. Additionally, the rE2-ELISA method showed a positive rate of 37.1% for IgG antibodies against GETV when testing 986 pig clinical serum samples collected from pigs in Sichuan between May 2022 and September 2022. The rE2-ELISA method displayed a 95.1% overall agreement with VNT, boasting a sensitivity of 98.2% and a specificity of 92.6%. These results indicate that IgG ELISA based on rE2 protein is an efficient and economical method for the detection of GETV antibodies in pigs, facilitating the diagnosis and prevention of GETV. • An indirect ELISA method for detecting GETV antibodies in swine was established. • The soluble recombinant E2 protein acts as the coated antigen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A compromise volume fraction of the added magnetizable particles was 0.40. • Preferred magnetizable particles made admixture MFB within magnetic stabilization. • The more stable the obtained magnetic stabilization, the better the intensification. • Mass transfer intensification depended on hydrodynamics in resulting admixture MFB. This work aimed to explore the property effects of added magnetizable particles on the magnetic intensification of mass transfer between the fluidizing gas and Geldart-B nonmagnetizable particles. A compromise volume fraction (x vM) of magnetizable particles in the resulting binary admixture was 0.40 to transmit the stabilizing effect of magnetic field to the nonmagnetizable particles and save the bed volume. When x vM was maintained the same (=0.40), the added magnetizable particles had an optimal size/density to maximize the magnetic intensification. When the gas velocity was three times the minimum fluidization velocity of the nonmagnetizable particles, the optimum size and density ratios between the added magnetizable particles and the nonmagnetizable particles were 0.41 and 2.99, respectively. When the mass fraction was kept constant (=0.77), the lighter magnetizable particles were preferred to transmit the magnetic stabilization. The property effects of added magnetizable particles on the magnetic intensification of mass transfer depended on its effects on the hydrodynamics in the resulting admixture MFB. Provided the added magnetizable particles could make the obtained admixture MFB locate in the magnetic stabilization flow regime, the mass transfer could be significantly intensified. The more stable the obtained magnetic stabilization, the better the magnetic intensification of the mass transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an environmentally benign bio-adsorbent for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous medium was a sustainable strategy to ensure water safety. Herein, three-dimensional macroscopic aminosilyated nanocellulose aerogels (APTM S -modified TO-NFC) for the removal of heavy metal ions in water were successfully synthesized from bamboo-derived TEMPO-oxidized nanofibrillated cellulose (TO-NFC) and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMs) via a facile freeze-drying process. Owing to a relatively high BET surface area (129.32 m2 g−1), high porosity (99.14%) as well as high substitution degree of amino groups (0.41), the resulting APTM S -modified TO-NFC aerogel exhibited good adsorption capacity of 99.0, 124.5, and 242.1 mg g−1 for Cu2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+, respectively. Furthermore, the crosslinked and three-dimensionally porous architecture imparted it with relatively high compression strength, good excellent stability in water, and ease of recyclability from water after the usage. The pH value of the solution had a great influence on adsorption efficiency of the aerogel adsorbent, and optimal adsorption efficiency could be achieved at pH 3–7. Thermodynamic parameters suggested the spontaneous and endothermic nature of adsorption process. This work provides a facile method for preparing sustainable bio-adsorbent for effective heavy metal ions removal from aqueous medium. A novel and sustainable APTMs-modified NFC aerogel bio-adsorbent for effective removal of Cu2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+ ions was prepared via a facile freeze-drying of TEMPO oxidized NFC suspension in the presence of APTMs. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower limb muscle strength is an important indicator of the effectiveness of rehabilitation training for patients with stroke and hemiplegia. When patients are trained with a lower limb rehabilitation robot, real-time human–machine interaction force acquisition can not only grasp the muscle strength of patients' lower limbs in time but also serve as an important reference for active/passive training mode. To accurately collect the human–machine interaction force to identify the patient's movement intention and determine the active/passive mode, a method is proposed to collect the human–machine interaction force based on a resistive strain gauge leg pressure sensor. The method can be applied to a variety of rehabilitation platforms to collect human–machine interaction force quickly and accurately and to identify and classify behaviors through probabilistic neural networks to determine patients' active/passive training patterns. By analyzing the active/passive walking of rehabilitation patients, the motor status of patients in that period is derived. The validity and correctness of the designed sensor and determination method were verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co-pyrolysis of coal and seaweed can not only effectively decrease the carbon footprint but also improve the quality and output of coal pyrolysis products, however, the influence of seaweed on thermal releasing behaviors of mercury during co-pyrolysis process are still unclear. In this work, the chlorella and Guizhou bituminous coal were mixed and used to reveal the mercury release behavior during co-pyrolysis by the temperature programmed pyrolysis experiments, thermogravimetric and differential thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DTG) and thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry (TG-MS) methods, offering a sufficient explanation on the control technology of mercury pollutants in co-pyrolysis. The results exhibited that a large amount of reducing gases such as CO, H 2 and H 2 O were generated in chlorella at the temperature range of 100-500°C, which was favorable for the transformation from oxidized mercury to elemental mercury, thus remarkably increased the release of elemental mercury in the raw coal sample. The mixed chlorella also significantly lowered the decomposition temperature range (from 400-600 to 300-400°C) of pyrite-bound mercury and decreased the decomposition temperatures of the pyrite-bound mercury species. Additionally, in the co-pyrolysis about 91.82% of mercury was released into the gas phase below 400°C and was 13.77% higher than that of in individual pyrolysis of coal. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the structural deformation at the Arabia-Anatolia-Africa junction is critical for understanding eastern Mediterranean tectonics, it remains debatable (extensional or compressional). Field survey of the 2023 Mw7.7 Pazarcik earthquake surface rupture along the Amanos Range, and microstructure and composition analyses of related fault rock were performed to investigate this issue. The surface rupture shows transtensional branches, with the main and secondary strands displaying sinistral (normal) offsets of 2.0–4.0 (0.4–0.9) and 1.0 (0.2) m. Slip plane of the secondary fault is marked by a ∼20 cm wide extensional fracture dividing fault breccia from gouge. Meanwhile, the gouge (26 % calcite, 38% serpentine and 36% smectite) is also dominated by tension cracks microscopically. In contrast to the widespread extensional deformation, geological evidence imply that this fault had experienced reverse slip in the Quaternary, as shown by thrusting of serpentine onto alluvium and the consistency of R foliations with reverse shear. We interpret it as the SW continuation of the East Anatolia fault (EAF) that was formerly characterized by transpressional deformation, and reactivated transtensionally due to the change of fault strike during this earthquake. In the broader Mediterranean tectonics framework, the Amanos segment might be interpreted as a recently formed component linking the Karasu fault to the EAF. • The coseismic rupture along the Amanos Range is overall transtensional. • The largest branch fault reactivated was previously transpressional. • This transformation happened in the Quaternary. • It highlights the tectonic evolution in the Arabia-Anatolia-Africa junction zone. [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]

• Nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (nitrite-DAMO) microbes are enriched in sewers. • Nitrite-DAMO process is stimulated due to in-sewer nitrate-dosing for sulfide control. • Candidatus Methylomirabilis are likely to be the key microbe in inducing nitrite-DAMO process. • The finding of nitrite-DAMO process opens a new path to sewer methane mitigation. Nitrate or nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (n-DAMO) is a microbial process that links carbon and nitrogen cycles as a methane sink in many natural environments. This study demonstrates, for the first time, that the nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (nitrite-DAMO) process can be stimulated in sewer systems under continuous nitrate dosing for sulfide control. In a laboratory sewer system, continuous nitrate dosing not only achieved complete sulfide removal, but also significantly decreased dissolved methane concentration by ∼50 %. Independent batch tests confirmed the coupling of methane oxidation with nitrate and nitrite reduction, revealing similar methane oxidation rates of 3.68 ± 0.5 mg CH 4 L−1 h−1 (with nitrate as electron acceptor) and 3.57 ± 0.4 mg CH 4 L−1 h−1 (with nitrite as electron acceptor). Comprehensive microbial analysis unveiled the presence of a subgroup of the NC10 phylum, namely Candidatus Methylomirabilis (n-DAMO bacteria that couples nitrite reduction with methane oxidation), growing in sewer biofilms and surface sediments with relative abundances of 1.9 % and 1.6 %, respectively. In contrast, n-DAMO archaea that couple methane oxidation solely to nitrate reduction were not detected. Together these results indicated the successful enrichment of n-DAMO bacteria in sewerage systems, contributing to approx. 64 % of nitrite reduction and around 50 % of dissolved methane removal through the nitrite-DAMO process, as estimated by mass balance analysis. The occurrence of the nitrite-DAMO process in sewer systems opens a new path to sewer methane emissions. [Display omitted] [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]

Using inexpensive terephthalic acid as a substitute for isophthalic acid, nitrogen-doped carbon coated nickel nanoparticles (Ni@NC) materials were synthesized by pyrolysis of Ni-MOF precursor, which were applied to the selective hydrogenation of p-nitrophenol under mild conditions (60 °C, 2 h) and showed better catalytic performance (>99.9 % conversion of p-nitrophenol and >99.9 % selectivity for p-aminophenol). The excellent catalytic performance may be mainly attributed to their core–shell structure, i.e., zero-valent nickel nanoparticles encapsulated within a nitrogen-doped carbon layer with an appropriate microporous structure, whereas zero-valent nickel nanoparticles have the ability to activate dihydrogen and block dioxygen. [Display omitted] The catalytic hydrogenation of aromatic nitro compounds under mild conditions to generate amino compounds is a great challenge in terms of conversion, selectivity and stability. In this paper, two classes of nitrogen-doped carbon coated nickel nanoparticles, coined Ni@NC-P and displaced Ni@NC-T were prepared by high-temperature pyrolysis of MOFs using inexpensive terephthalic acid and high-priced trimesic acid as carbon source, respectively. One from the former class, namely the Ni@NC-P-500 catalyst, exhibits the best catalytic performance, which is superior to Ni@NC-T-500 Samples. For the selective hydrogenation of p -nitrophenol under mild conditions (60 °C, 2 h), the Ni@NC-P-500 catalyst shows >99.9 % conversion of p -nitrophenol and >99.9 % selectivity for p -aminophenol and can be recycled five times without obvious decrease of conversion and selectivity, thanks to its larger specific surface area (382.02 m2·g−1), smaller nickel particle size (8.2 nm), higher nitrogen content (especially pyridine nitrogen), higher electron-rich nickel content and less hydrophilic properties than that of the Ni@NC-T-500. The excellent stability and recyclability of the catalysts are mainly attributed to their core–shell structure, i.e., zero-valent nickel nanoparticles encapsulated within a nitrogen-doped carbon layer with an appropriate microporous structure, whereas zero-valent nickel nanoparticles have the ability to activate dihydrogen and block dioxygen. [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]

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]

[Display omitted] • Dynamic hydrothermal method could accelerate the Ni-phyllosilicate synthesis. • Glycerol modification significantly reduced the thickness of Ni-phyllosilicate nanosheets. • Synergistic effect of stirring and viscous solvent led to enhanced activity for CO 2 methanation. • Viscous solvent-assisted dynamic hydrothermal method was competitive to synthesize Ni-phyllosilicate. To address the shortcomings of poor convection and product agglomeration of the static hydrothermal method, the dynamic hydrothermal method together with the viscous solvent-assisted dynamic hydrothermal method were proposed to synthesize Ni-phyllosilicate in this work. Stirring seemed to be powerful to accelerate the synthesis with significant increase of Ni content from 11.80 wt% (static synthesis) to 23.13 wt% (dynamic synthesis). The further modification of glycerol increased the shearing force to exfoliate the Ni-phyllosilicate nanosheets during dynamic synthesis, whose thickness could reach 1.17 nm with improved metal utilization ratio after reduction. As a result, the activity of CO 2 methanation was enhanced with large TOF CO2 of 3.5 × 10−2 s−1 and small E a of 65.13 kJ·mol−1. In situ DRIFTS analysis confirmed the existence of high actively intermediate of m -HCOO− and *CO, which could be further hydrogenated into CH x species. In short, the synergistic effect of dynamic stirring and glycerol modification drove the enhancement of catalytic activity, and also provided the possibility of large-scale production of Ni-phyllosilicate using hydrothermal method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Large yellow croaker roes were used as raw materials to produce fish sauce. • The quality of fish sauce was evaluated via chemical properties. • The connection between fermentation temperature and chemical properties of fish sauce was revealed. • Metabolomics technique was used to analyze the metabolic expression of fish sauce. • Temperature could influence the expression of metabolic substances in fish sauce. Fish sauce is a popular aquatic condiment with unique flavor. In this study, the changes in the chemical properties and metabolite profiling of fish sauce from large yellow croaker roes during fermentation at different temperatures were revealed. The results found that the contents of total acid, amino acid nitrogen, total soluble nitrogen and soluble salt-free solids of fish sauce fermented at 40 °C were higher than those in other temperatures groups (25 °C and 32 °C), while the contents of total volatile basic nitrogen were lower than other temperatures. Therefore, 40 °C was the ideal fermentation temperature for fish sauce. The metabolomics analysis showed that organic acids, amino acids, nucleotide, and lipid compounds were found to participate in the biosynthesis pathway. Compared to 25 °C and 32 °C, fermented at 40 °C could increase the abundance of metabolic substances in the fish sauce, such as sugar alcohols, L-Citrulline, L-Aspartic acid, L-Cysteine, Glutathione, and L-Arginine. These results provide a theoretical basis for the production of high-quality fish sauce and the high-value utilization of fish roes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, BiOCl–C composites were prepared using sodium lignosulfonate (SLS) as the carbon source. SLS also acted as a surfactant, and the BiOCl–C nanosheets gradually became smaller with the increase of SLS dosages. When SLS was added at 0.4 g, the formed BiOCl–C nanosheets had the best effect in terms of size and photocatalytic activity. Compared with pure BiOCl, the small size BiOCl–C nanosheets showed better degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and could eliminate 90.2 % RhB under light conditions. This might be due to the incorporation of carbon material which increased the specific surface area and decreased the electron-hole recombination rate. Meanwhile, BiOCl–C obtained higher electron mobility rate under the small size effect, which improved the photocatalytic degradation efficiency. Therefore, the prepared BiOCl–C is a promising photocatalyst for degrading organic pollutants. This work provides a new idea for the design of efficient environmental catalytic photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • BiOCl–C composites were prepared by a one-step hydrothermal method. • Sodium lignosulfonate (SLS) was used as surfactant and carbon precursor. • The effect of SLS on the morphology of BiOCl–C was investigated in detail. • The photocatalytic performance of BiOCl–C was significantly improved. • The photocatalytic mechanism of RhB degradation by BiOCl–C was described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a method for solidifying sulfide and sulfate nanoparticulate powder to prepare bracketing standards and samples for in situ S isotopic analysis using laser ablation multicollector inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP–MS) was developed. Sulfide or sulfate powder was transformed into a stable and mechanically resistant target by mixing it with epoxy resin. Using this method, seven bracketing standards with diverse matrix minerals (pyrite, chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, arsenopyrite, barite, and gypsum) were synthesized in the form of resin-preserved powders (RPPs). The effects of ablation behavior, powder particle size, and homogeneity on the S isotopic ratios in these RPPs were rigorously evaluated. The precision of the δ34S VCDT sulfur isotopic results obtained by LA-MC-ICP–MS was better than 0.47‰ (2SD uncertainty, n ≥ 20 over 4 months) for the S-bearing mineral RPPs. Finally, the in situ S isotope results of the seven RPPs measured by LA-MC-ICP–MS were consistent with the values obtained using solution nebulizer (SN)-MC-ICP–MS. The isotopic composition and homogeneity of a range of sulfide mineral RPPs (seven minerals referred to above) were characterized for use as potential reference materials. Our method provides the opportunity to prepare bracketing standards and samples for in situ S isotope analysis for a wide range of sulfur-bearing materials and is particularly appropriate for geologic samples with complex matrices and for which high spatial resolution in situ microbeam analysis is critical. More importantly, this method provides new prospects for the preparation of homogenized reference materials from natural minerals that are urgently needed for matrix-matched calibration and quality control of LA-ICP–MS geochemical and isotope data. [Display omitted] • A method for preparing bracketing S isotope standard has been developed. • Seven bracketing standards with diverse S matrices were synthesized in RPPs. • The precision of δ34S VCDT obtained were better than 0.47‰ for the S-bearing RPPs. • The S-bearing mineral RPPs solidifying method is reliability and robustness. • Isotopic composition and homogeneity of 7 RPPs were characterized for use as RMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon isotopes of terrestrial gastropod yield insights on age and paleoenvironments for many depositional settings, but questions remain on the carbon source for gastropod carbonate and the climatic significance. This study documented for four terrestrial gastropod species (Rabdotus dealbatus, A. alternata, V. indentata, and Rumina decollata) from central Texas 14C age offsets between shell‑carbonate and corresponding atmosphere values that lived on carbonate- and kerogen-rich Cretaceous bedrock in the 20th and 21st centuries. Also, the ontogenetic variations in 14C content were assessed to better understand carbon cycling between gastropods and the associated reservoirs. The carbon sources were partitioned based on 13C isotopic values to evaluate the possible causes for age anomalies using initially a three-component model that includes contributions from atmosphere, vegetation, and limestone pools, with a new added fourth component, for soil organic carbon. The average (n = 4) of the outer and inner shell samples yielded the respective 14C ages of 550 ± 325 and 1520 ± 525 yr B.P. The apparent linearized 14C distance-age anomaly for an individual gastropod whorl is 4–26 mm/yr calculate from shell 14C ages on apex and aperture material. The smallest gastropod dated, a single V. indentata test (3.9 mg) yielded the oldest 14C age of 2340 yr B.P. The four-component model for the oldest 14C ages indicates that 50–85% of shell carbon may be from ingestion, with a smaller pool from respiration. Up to 30% of the organic carbon in gastropod shell may be derived from soil organic carbon. Terrestrial gastropods that yield anomalously old 14C ages of >500 years may be detritivores and live in soils with sources of labile old carbon either inherited from the bedrock and/or the older pool of soil organic matter common in well-developed calcium-rich soils. • Modern and prebomb terrestrial gastropods from Texas gave 14C ages 300–2400 yr old. • Gastropod shells show ontogenetic effect with older ages at apex by 100–1700 yr. • Identify new old carbon source for snails from kerogen-rich soil organic matter (SOM) • Develop new four component model (air, rock, SOM and plants) to explain old 14C ages • Up to 30% of carbon in gastropod shell may be derived from SOM. [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]

Numerous studies have explored paleoenvironmental conditions in China's dune fields around the mid-Holocene (MH), ∼6000 calendar years ago, often based on individual paleosol-aeolian sand depositional sequences and local-scale landscape dynamics. So far, continent-scale modeling studies have only indirectly assessed dune activation and stabilization processes via changes in simulated precipitation, net precipitation (precipitation minus evaporation), and effective moisture (precipitation divided by evaporation). Here we conducted a comprehensive study using gridded data on potential evapotranspiration, precipitation, and surface wind velocity from 13 climate models participating in the Paleoclimate Modeling Intercomparison Project phases 4 (PMIP4) and compared the model results with geological records. Our evaluation of spatial patterns of dune activity in northern China around the MH reveals that the intensity of annual MH dune activity exhibited significant differences between the eastern and western parts of Chinese deserts compared to those of the preindustrial period (PI). Dune activity was significantly weaker in the eastern region, while in the western part, it was considerably stronger. The key drivers of this disparity were the distinct spatial variations in near-surface wind speed and effective moisture between the two regions. Compared with the optically stimulated luminescence ages of the paleosol-aeolian sand sedimentary sequences derived from a compilation of geological records from 88 sites across northern China, the model results suggest that the weakening of dune activity and the process of dune stabilization in eastern China around the MH were mainly attributed to a significant increase in effective moisture and a concurrent decrease in near-surface wind speed due to the intensified East Asian summer monsoon. Additionally, the weakening of westerlies in western China resulted in reduced effective moisture, contributing to increased sand availability for dune development and subsequent desert expansion. • Mid-Holocene dune activity in Chinese deserts varied regionally, differing from preindustrial period. • Varied wind speed and moisture caused different mid-Holocene aeolian activities in northern China's western and eastern desert belt. • Numerical simulations aid in interpreting field-based geological findings comprehensively. [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]

• A comprehensive review of electro-driven technologies for phosphorus enrichment was provided. • Enrichment rate and energy consumption were important indicators for phosphorus enrichment. • Phosphorus enrichment promoted p recovery efficiency and vivianite formation. • Prospect and directions of electro-driven technologies for phosphorus enrichment and recovery were presented. The recovery of phosphorus from wastewater is a critical step in addressing the scarcity of phosphorus resources. Electro-driven technologies for phosphorus enrichment have gathered significant attention due to their inherent advantages, such as mild operating conditions, absence of secondary pollution, and potential integration with other technologies. This study presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in the field of phosphorus enrichment, with a specific focus on capacitive deionization and electrodialysis technologies. It highlights the underlying principles and effectiveness of electro-driven techniques for phosphorus enrichment while systematically comparing energy consumption, enrichment rate, and concentration factor among different technologies. Furthermore, the study provides a thorough analysis of the capacity of various technologies to selectively enrich phosphorus and proposes several methods and strategies to enhance selectivity. These insights offer valuable guidance for advancing the future development of electrochemical techniques with enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in phosphorus enrichment from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Catalysts for the Knoevenagel are synthesized from different carbon sources such as melamine, dicyandiamide, chitosan, etc. • Co-N-C synthesized with melamine as a carbon source gave yields as high as 93.7% with excellent stability and recyclability. • Promotion of the Knoevenagel reaction by a solid frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) consisting of Coδ+ and Nδ- is discussed. Nitrogen-doped carbon confined cobalt nanoparticles (Co-N-C) were synthesized through multi-step pyrolysis method. The Co-N-C samples exhibit excellent catalytic performance in the Knoevenagel reaction of benzaldehyde and malononitrile, of which the yield can be as high as 93.7% within 2.5 min with outstanding stability and recyclability. The catalytic performance may be primarily ascribed to the richness in nitrogen and cobalt in the form of the solid Frustrated Lewis Pair (FLP), i.e. the Co ion acts as a Lewis acid site to activate the carbonyl oxygen of benzaldehyde molecules, and nitrogen in carbon acts as a Lewis base site to activate the methylene hydrogen of malononitrile. From the perspective of intrinsic catalytic activity, variations in catalytic properties are attributed to the electron density distribution on the surface of the catalyst. Nitrogen-doped carbon confined cobalt nanoparticles as the acid-base bifunctional catalysts exhibit excellent catalytic performance for the Knoevenagel reaction between benzaldehyde and malononitrile, which may be primarily ascribed to the highest contents of nitrogen and Cobalt in the form of the solid Frustrated Lewis Pair (FLP) from Coδ+ of Co nanoparticles and Nδ− of nitrogen-contained species. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This 3-day hindcast case study focuses on the effects of the initial errors, a non-negligible factor in oceanic prediction, on VTS prediction in the NSCS and provides scientific guidance on observation design through targeted observation. Based on the Conditional Nonlinear Optimal Perturbation (CNOP) approach and the Regional Ocean Modeling System, the impact of optimal initial errors (OIEs) on the 3-day VTS prediction is estimated and their nonlinear evolution mechanism is clarified. The OIEs, horizontally distributed along the 1000 m isobath and vertically confined within the upper 50 m, experience non-localized evolution and cause a rapid increase in the root mean square errors by about 100 times during the prediction period. Eddy energetics analysis indicates that barotropic instabilities constitute a key factor in the evolution of the OIEs. In addition, sensitive areas are identified for targeted observation based on the vertically integrated total energy of the OIEs. Sensitive experiments demonstrate that the prediction errors caused by random initial errors in the sensitive areas are larger than those in other nearby areas. Observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) further suggest that eliminating the initial errors in sensitive areas can improve VTS prediction by over 50%. This study reveals the patterns and growth dynamic mechanism of CNOP-type OIEs in 3-day VTS prediction in the NSCS and provides scientific guidance for operational observation design. • The CNOP is applied to investigate the optimal initial errors in predicting the 3-day VTS in the NSCS. • The CNOP-type optimal initial errors are concentrated roughly along the 1000 m isobath and upper 50 m. • They grow mostly by extracting energy from the background flow through barotropic instability. • They can be used to identify the sensitive areas in targeted observation to improve the VTS prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A BiOI/BiFeWO 6 p-n heterojunction rich in oxygen vacancies (OVs) was synthesized. • BOI/BFW-20 has excellent photocatalytic degradation ability for various pollutants. • The synergistic effect of heterojunction and OVs enhances the photocatalytic ability. • BOI/BFW-20 has excellent stability. The construction of p-n heterojunctions has become an effective way to develop high performance photocatalysts to remove pollutants from water. Herein, the BiOI/BiFeWO 6 composites abundant in oxygen vacancies (OVs) was rationally designed by combining calcination and solvothermal methods to remove different kinds of pollutants, including rhodamine B (RhB), tetracycline (TC), ciprofloxacin (CIP) and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). The surface properties, structural characterizations and photocatalytic activity of BiOI/BiFeWO 6 were investigated. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) showed that the morphology of BiOI/BiFeWO 6 was BiFeWO 6 nanoparticles loaded on BiOI sheet structure. The formation of BiOI/BiFeWO 6 heterojunction was demonstrated by the shift of the peaks of Bi and I elements in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Moreover, the existence of OVs was confirmed by the O 1 s spectrum and electron spin resonance (ESR). By comparison with neat BiOI and BiFeWO 6 , the BiOI/BiFeWO 6 composite showed excellent photocatalytic properties under visible light. The strategy that the p-n heterojunction and OVs work together opens up new avenues to fabricate future high-efficiency photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Extract-pyrolysis cascading utilization approach was applied in CH and PS. • The extraction yield of CH was higher than PS, BmimCl obtained highest extraction yield. • ILs exhibited strong extraction abilities for oxygen and nitrogen containing compounds. • Products composition and distribution can be improved via extraction-pyrolysis process. • Differentiated extract-pyrolysis characteristics were exhibited for PS and CH. As the main utilization method of biomass, direct pyrolysis destroyed high value-added constituents. Extract-pyrolysis cascading utilization technical was applied in two typical biomasses: chlorella (CH) and pine sawdust (PS). Four imidazolium-based ionic liquids (ILs) were chosen as the extractants, and obtained higher extraction yield for CH than PS. Among them, BmimCl (1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride) obtained highest extraction yield for CH and PS of 72.73% and 20.58%. Selected ILs exhibited strong extraction abilities of oxygen-containing compounds for both CH and PS and nitrogen-containing compounds for CH. Compared with direct pyrolysis, gas and char yields of CH and PS had obvious decrease and the liquid phase products yields increased with more diverse composition especially phenolic compounds. The liquid phase products yield of PS and CH increased by 27.15%, 37.80% and 61.20%, 70.82% using BmimHSO 4 (1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogensulfate) and BmimCl. The extract-pyrolysis characteristics of CH and PS were obtained through the comparison of gas–liquid-solid products composition and distribution, and they depend on the structure of biomass and the physical–chemical properties of ILs. Extract-pyrolysis utilization approach has potential to realize clean and high-value utilization of biomass, and more valuable liquid products can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reported an efficient one-pot hydrothermal method for adding promoter to nickel phyllosilicate. The nickel‑samarium bimetallic phyllosilicate (NiSm-Ps) was formed during the one-pot synthesis. The characterization results showed that the Sm species over the uncalcined NiSm-Ps catalyst existed in the form of Sm 2 Si 2 O 7 , and it was converted to be Sm 2 O 3 after calcination with high dispersion, and in the form of Sm 2 O x after reduction. On the contrary, for the post-impregnated Sm-doped nickel phyllosilicate catalyst (Ni-Ps/Sm-Im), the Sm species variation was from Sm 2 O 3 to Sm 2 O x , which was significantly different from that of NiSm-Ps. As a result, the NiSm-Ps catalyst showed a high Ni dispersion (13.9%), small particle size (4.0 nm) and large concentration of surface oxygen vacancies as well as strong H 2 and CO 2 activation properties. Consequently, the NiSm-Ps catalyst achieved a high CO 2 conversion of 80.1% at 400 °C and large TOF CO2 of 4.08 × 10−3 at 220 °C. Additionally, NiSm-Ps exhibited excellent long-term stability and anti-sintering property. In short, the formation of Sm 2 Si 2 O 7 was very crucial for the Ni-Sm/SiO 2 catalyst and could further improve the promotion effect of Sm species for CO 2 methanation. [Display omitted] • The Ni Sm bimetallic phyllosilicate catalyst was synthesized by a one-pot strategy. • Sm 2 Si 2 O 7 was the important intermediate product of the one-pot synthesized catalyst. • Sm 2 O 3 rather than Sm 2 Si 2 O 7 was observed on the post-impregnated catalyst. • The occurrence of Sm 2 Si 2 O 7 led to the more significant promotion effect for CO 2 methanation. [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]

The effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on microbiota engraftment in patients with metabolic syndrome remains unclear. This systematic review employed a meta-analysis of RCTs for assessment on the role of FMT in treating obesity and metabolic syndrome, and its impact on clinically relevant parameters. Major databases and grey literatures were searched identifying RCTs comparing FMT of lean donors with placebo in obese/metabolic syndrome patients. Studies using any form of placebo were included. Variations in the parameters before and after treatment were calculated followed by meta-analyses. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and a total of 334 patients were included for further analysis. Clinically significant parameters associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome were explored and FMT was identified significantly and negatively associated with most indices of abdominal adiposity including caloric intake, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides and CRP, Obesity parameters including fasting glucose and acetic acid were increased following FMT. FMT is more advantageous for obese patients with elevated blood pressure, disordered glucose and insulin metabolism, and elevated blood lipids. The study of metabolic factors in obese patients will be our starting point in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A structure with ion migration channels and continuous conductive network is crucial for the rate performance of activated carbon. In this work, a phenolic resin and ammonium alginate composite derived carbon is prepared by sol-gel method, carbonization and KOH activation. Compared with pure phenolic resin derived carbon, adding ammonium alginate in carbon preparation process can form interconnected coral-like carbon structure with higher specific surface area and meso-macro pores volume. These advantages of carbon make it provide sufficient access for ions diffusion and continuous skeleton for electron transport. In addition, the morphology of carbon materials can be adjusted by ammonium alginate. A two-electrode system coupled with 6 M KOH as electrolyte is assembled to test the electrochemical properties of these carbon materials. High specific capacitances of 282.8 F g−1 and 232.1 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and 100 A g−1 are obtained, respectively, with a high capacitance retention of 82%. Moreover, high energy density of 9.82 Wh kg−1 at 115 W kg−1 and conspicuous cycling stability with a capacitance retention of 95% after 20,000 cycles are showed for the symmetrical supercapacitor. This work provides reference for preparation of the 3D interconnected hierarchical porous carbon for high performance supercapacitor. [Display omitted] • Coral-like 3D interconnected morphology carbons were prepared. • Ammonium alginate as additive can improve the morphology of carbon. • The Coral-like 3D carbons showed high specific capacitance and cycling stability. • The improved electron/ion transport enhanced the rate performance of supercapacitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addressing the problems of easy collapse, Ni sintering and low catalytic activity over the nanotubular nickel phyllosilicate catalyst, the Mg species was doped via a simple hydrothermal method to construct the nanotubular Ni-Mg bimetallic phyllosilicate solid solution. The high thermal stability, nonreducible property and strong basicity of magnesium species led to the enhancement of anti-collapse, Ni-sintering resistance and basicity. As a result, the fine Ni particles and enhanced H 2 and CO 2 chemisorption and activation properties resulted in boosting the catalytic activity of both CO 2 methanation and CH 4 -CO 2 reforming reactions. The Ni/Mg ratios and the reduction temperatures were detailed optimized, and the 600oC-reduced Ni 8 Mg 2 -NT catalyst with the Ni/Mg ratio of 8:2 was the optimal, which also exhibited high long-term stability. In short, the formed Ni-Mg-phyllosilicate solid solution structure and the special interactions of different species brought about high catalytic performance of the nanotubular Ni-Mg phyllosilicate catalyst. [Display omitted] • The nanotubular Ni-Mg bimetallic phyllosilicate solid solution was synthesized. • Nanotubular Ni-Mg phyllosilicate obtained high anti-collapse and Ni-sintering resistance properties. • The Ni/Mg ratio of 8:2 and the reduction temperature of 600 oC were the optimum. • This catalyst was versatile for both CO 2 methanation and CH 4 -CO 2 reforming reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]