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Abstract: We have successfully fabricated the enhanced 3D hierarchical double porous Co3O4/graphene architecture by employing a simple, facile and inexpensive microwave-assisted method. The ultimately formed hierarchical porous configuration can provide more rapid electrolyte diffusion to the active materials due to macro- and micro-porosity. The Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), which are homogeneously distributed on graphene sheets, showed high reversible capacities as well as significantly enhanced cycling performance and high rate capabilities when evaluated as anode for lithium ion battery. The superior performance could be attributed to the unique enhanced 3D hierarchical double porous architecture. Our results opened a new doorway to prepare novel anode architecture for high performance lithium ion batteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: To examine population genetic diversity and variation of the red stingray Dasyatis akajei, samples from 1 freshwater region and 6 coastal localities within its distribution range were analyzed by using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technology. A total of 207 loci were identified by 4 primer combinations from 87 individuals, 174 of which were polymorphic (84.1%). A high level of Nei's gene diversity was observed with the overall value of 0.230 ± 0.179. No significant genealogical clusters associated with sampling sites were revealed on the UPGMA tree. Both analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA, Φ ST = 0.085, P = 0.00) and pairwise F ST indicated significant genetic differentiation among four marine samples. However, no particular genetic differentiation was detected between marine and the limited sampling freshwater populations (AMOVA, Φ CT = 0.056, P > 0.05). Except for the TZ vs. WZ (5.193), the gene flow estimates (N m ) demonstrated the effective immigrants were 1.918-2.976, suggesting low level dispersal between pairwise marine populations. Species-specific habits (demersal and sluggish habits) are probably responsible for the population structuring. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: State and local governments in China have implemented a series of grassland protection policies to address the problem of grassland degradation. In 2003, Ningxia was the first province to implement a province-wide grazing ban. The effect of this ban is contentious at all levels of government and has become a topic of public concern. Grassland desertification is the most direct indicator of the effect of the grazing ban. We selected 14 counties and cities in north-central Ningxia as the study area. A desertification classification and grading system for Ningxia's grassland was then designed based on fieldwork and expert review. Using the Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA) and decision-tree methods, we interpreted Landsat TM/ETM+ images of the study area during four years: 1993, 2000, 2006 and 2011. The following results were obtained: from 1993 to 2011, the area of desertified grassland in north-central Ningxia decreased gradually from 8702km2 in 1993 to 7485km2 in 2011, a decrease of 13.98%; the degree of desertification gradually decreased from 3573km2 of severely desertified grassland in 1993 to 1450km2 in 2011, a decrease of 59.41%; desertified grassland vegetation was restored rapidly during 2000–2006 and 2006–2011, reducing the total area of desertified grassland annually by 1.87 and 0.61%, respectively; finally, the area of severely desertified grassland decreased annually by 5.78 and 6.28% during 2000–2006 and 2006–2011, respectively. These results show that the region-wide grazing ban, together with other ecological engineering measures, has helped reverse desertification and promote the restoration of grassland vegetation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The genetic diversity and population structure of the small yellow croaker (Larimichthys polyactis) were investigated based on seven microsatellite markers. Two hundred and twenty-six individuals were collected from ten locations from the Bohai Sea, the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea. Relatively high genetic variation (He = 0.826–0.873) and very low genetic differentiation (F st = 0.001–0.029) between populations were checked, which were attributed by high mutation rate, large population size, wide distribution and diverse habitats. L. polyactis had not undergone recent genetic bottleneck events, which was supported by Wilcoxon signed-rank test and mode-shift indicator of allele frequency distribution. UPGMA tree revealed that the cluster results had no connection with isolation by distance. The knowledge on genetic diversity and population structure will be crucial to establish appropriate fishery management for the species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been implicated in modulating anxiety. However, it is unknown whether excitatory or inhibitory neurotransmission in the infralimbic (IL) subregion of the mPFC underlies the pathology of anxiety-related behavior. To address this issue, we infused the GABAA receptor (GABAAR) antagonist bicuculline to temporarily activate the IL cortex. IL cortex activation decreased the time spent in the center area in the open field test, decreased exploration of the open-arms in the elevated plus maze test, and increased the latency to bite food in the novelty-suppressed feeding test. These findings substantiate the GABAergic system's role in anxiety-related behaviors. IL cortex inactivation with the AMPA receptor (AMPAR) antagonist CNQX produced opposite, anxiolytic effects. However, infusion of the NMDA receptor (NMDAR) antagonist AP5 into the IL cortex had no significant effect. Additionally, we did not observe motor activity deficits or appetite deficits following inhibition of GABAergic or glutamatergic neurotransmission. Interestingly, we found parallel and corresponding electrophysiological changes in anxious mice; compared to mice with relatively low anxiety, the relatively high anxiety mice exhibited smaller evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents (eIPSCs) and larger AMPA-mediated evoked excitatory postsynaptic currents (eEPSCs) in pyramidal neurons in the IL cortex. The changes of eIPSCs and eEPSCs were due to presynaptic mechanisms. Our results suggest that imbalances of neurotransmission in the IL cortex may cause a net increase in excitatory inputs onto pyramidal neurons, which may underlie the pathogenic mechanism of anxiety disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The elemental mercury was catalytically removed by V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 and Ce doped V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 catalysts under the UV irradiation at 30–160 °C to determine whether the catalysts could simultaneously have both thermo- and photo-catalytic activities. The physicochemical properties of catalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, EDX, BET, XPS, UV–visible, PER and EIS. The experimental results demonstrated that V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 and Ce-doped catalysts possessed both thermo- and photo-catalytic reactivities. A suitable reaction temperature (120 °C) and UV light had promoting effects on mercury removal efficiency. In addition, owing to the high oxidation capability as well good oxygen storage performance of Ce4+, Ce doping could greatly improve the mercury removal properties of the catalyst, reduce the inhibition of SO 2 and make NO the component with enhanced effect. Ce doping also had the capability of enhancing the light absorption intensity in the UV region as well as the separation rate of photoinduced carriers. Finally, DFT calculations of V-Ti and Ce-V-Ti for Hg0 removal were investigated to further verify the experimental conclusion. • Ce doped V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 displayed excellent thermo- and photo-catalytic properties. • Ce4+ had good oxidation performance and oxygen storage performance in Hg0 capture. • Ce doped V 2 O 5 /TiO 2 presented good resistance to NO and SO 2。. • DFT calculations for Hg0 adsorption were performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histone lysine demethylases (KDM) are responsible for histone demethylation and are involved in gene expression regulation. Previous studies have shown that histone lysine demethylation plays an important role in gonadal development of vertebrates. The KDM family consists of eight subfamilies, i.e., kdm1 , kdm2 , kdm3 , kdm4 , kdm5 , kdm6 , kdm7 and JmjC-only subfamily. In this study, 13 to 63 KDM genes in 23 representative species were identified based on the available version of genome assembly. Phylogenetic relationships, domain architecture, and synteny of these genes were comprehensively analyzed and the results suggested KDM genes probably originated from the early diverging metazoan and significantly expanded in vertebrates with multiple whole genome duplication, especially in the third-round whole genome duplication (3R-WGD) and polyploidization of teleosts. The subfamilies of kdm2 , kdm3 , kdm4 , kdm5 , kdm6 and kdm7 were duplicated with 1R-2R events, and duplicates of kdm2a , kdm4a , kdm5b and kdm6b were resulted from 3R-WGD. Based on transcriptome data, the KDM genes were found to be dominantly expressed in the ovary and testis. More than 80% of KDM genes displayed sexual dimorphic expression, with 15 genes dominantly expressed in ovaries, and 12 genes dominantly expressed in testes. Importantly, from transcriptome data, qRT-PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization during sex reversal, genes with higher expression in ovary than testis, such as kdm1b and two JmjC-only subfamily members hspbap1 and riox1 , were downregulated, while other genes, such as kdm3c , kdm5bb , kdm6ba , kdm6bb and kdm7b , with higher expression in testis than ovary, were upregulated in ovotestis, indicating these genes play critical roles in the gonadal development and sex reversal. This study provided new insights into the evolution of the KDM genes and a fundamental clue for understanding their important roles in sex differentiation and gonadal development in teleosts. [Display omitted] • We carried out a comprehensive analysis of KDM genes in 23 representative animal species. • We demonstrated many KDMs were highly expressed in gonads and displayed sexual dimorphic expression indevelopment process. • We revealed the cellular localization of some ovary-dominated and testis-dominated KDMs in ovaries, ovotestes and testes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel Vo-BWO/CN Z-scheme heterojunction was synthesized. • The synergistic effect of oxygen vacancy and Z-scheme heterojunction promoted molecular oxygen activation. • Vo-BWO/CN showed superior Hg0 photooxidation activity compared with Vo-BWO and CN. • DFT calculations and mechanism for Vo-BWO and Vo-BWO/CN were revealed. Photocatalytic Hg0 oxidation under visible light radiation is an economic and feasible approach to deal with energy and pollution problems. In this paper, the photocatalytic oxidation capability of gaseous elemental mercury by Bi 2 WO 6 under visible light radiation was further improved by introducing oxygen vacancies and forming the Z-scheme heterojunction with g-C 3 N 4. Firstly, the experimental results demonstrate that oxygen vacancies were beneficial to reduce the band gap, with nearly trebling increase in mercury removal efficiency than that before modification (6.5%) under visible light. Secondly, the Vo-Bi 2 WO 6 /g-C 3 N 4 composite with 10 wt% g-C 3 N 4 content exhibited an optimal Hg0 removal efficiency of 87.2% compared with Vo-Bi 2 WO 6 (17.8%) and pure g-C 3 N 4 (12.4%) under the N 2 + 4%O 2 atmosphere. The improved photocatalytic efficiency could be primarily due to the formation of a built-in electric field between g-C 3 N 4 and Vo-Bi 2 WO 6 through the carrier transmission mechanism of Z-scheme heterojunction, enhancing the light absorption intensity in the visible range, facilitating the movement and separation of photoinduced carriers as well as improving the interfacial charge-transfer efficiency. Finally, DFT calculations provides a theoretical basis for the role of oxygen vacancies and the internal electric field generated between two interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SOX17 has been shown to be involved in the transcriptional regulation of CXCR4, and CXCL12 functions by binding to its receptor CXCR4. Here, we explored the expression of SOX17 in neuroblastoma (NB), its mutual regulation with CXCL12 , and its effects on cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Five human NB cell lines and 15 pairs of NB and adjacent tissue specimens were used, to conduct RT-qPCR, immunohistochemistry, western blot, ELISA, CCK-8, colony formation, Edu, transwell, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and dual-luciferase assays, to study the role of SOX17 in NB. SOX17 levels were reduced in both NB tissues and cell lines. SOX17 inhibited NB tumor growth, migration and invasion in vivo and suppressed NB cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. SOX17 knockdown or overexpression revealed a negative correlation between SOX17 and CXCL12/CXCR4 pathway activation. ChIP and dual-luciferase assays in NB cells demonstrated that SOX17 significantly inhibited CXCL12 gene and protein levels by binding to CXCL12 promoter regions. In vivo and in vitro experiments using the CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100, demonstrated that cell proliferation, migration and invasion were significantly abrogated by AMD3100 in NB cells with SOX17 knocked down. Further, AMD3100 impaired growth of NB tumors with SOX17 knocked down in mice. Importantly, SOX17 bound to the CXCL12 promoter, which then activated downstream targets to regulate cell viability, proliferation, and migration. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that SOX17 expression is repressed in NB tissues and cells, and that SOX17 suppresses NB tumor formation and proliferation through inhibition of CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling. [Display omitted] • SOX17 expression was repressed in neuroblastoma tissues and cells. • SOX17 can bind to the CXCL12 promoter region and inhibit CXCR4/CXCL12 pathway. • CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 improved the efficacy of anti-cancer ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A nonwoven nanofiber fabric with paper-like qualities composed of Si nanoparticles and carbon as binder-free anode electrode is reported. The nanofiber fabrics are prepared by convenient electrospinning technique, in which, the Si nanoparticles are uniformly confined in the carbon nanofibers. The high strength and flexibility of the nanofiber fabrics are beneficial for alleviating the structural deformation and facilitating ion transports throughout the whole composited electrodes. Due to the absence of binder, the less weight, higher energy density, and excellent electrical conductivity anodes can be attained. These traits make the composited nanofiber fabrics excellent used as a binder-free, mechanically flexible, high energy storage anode material in the next generation of rechargeable lithium ions batteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Co3O4@Si nanowires configuration was successfully fabricated by employing the electroless metal deposition (EMD) technology and the following annealing in air. The nanostructure exhibits a uniform Co3O4 nanoparticles grafting on the solution-etched aligned Si nanowires. What is more important, the cost-effective and uncomplicated fabrication strategy as well as the obtained unique architecture will lead to perfect performance in many applications. When functioned as anode electrodes in lithium-ions battery, the Co3O4@Si nanowires configuration displays an excellent Lithium-ion battery performance with larger reversible capacity, more comforting cyclic performance and better rate capability compared with the commercial Co3O4 powders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To identify susceptibility loci for vitiligo, we extended our previous vitiligo genome-wide association study with a two-staged replication study that included 6,857 cases and 12,025 controls from the Chinese Han population. We identified three susceptibility loci, 12q13.2 (rs10876864, Pcombined=8.07 × 10−12, odds ratio (OR)=1.18), 11q23.3 (rs638893, Pcombined=2.47 × 10−9, OR=1.22), and 10q22.1 (rs1417210, Pcombined=1.83 × 10−8, OR=0.88), and confirmed three previously reported loci for vitiligo, 3q28 (rs9851967, Pcombined=8.57 × 10−8, OR=0.88), 10p15.1 (rs3134883, Pcombined=1.01 × 10−5, OR=1.11), and 22q12.3 (rs2051582, Pcombined=2.12 × 10−5, OR=1.14), in the Chinese Han population. The most significant single-nucleotide polymorphism in the 12q13.2 locus is located immediately upstream of the promoter region of PMEL, which encodes a major melanocyte antigen and has expression loss in the vitiligo lesional skin. In addition, both 12q13.2 and 11q23.3 loci identified in this study are also associated with other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes and systemic lupus erythematosus. These findings provide indirect support that vitiligo pathogenesis involves a complex interplay between immune regulatory factors and melanocyte-specific factors. They also highlight similarities and differences in the genetic basis of vitiligo in Chinese and Caucasian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Three-dimensional (3D) conductive network electrodes based on commercial nickel foam current collector supported Si nanowires (SiNWs) with carbon coating are evaluated as lithium-ion battery anodes. The Ni foam network current collector achieves a high silicon loading up to 5mg/cm2, without using any non-conductive binders. The pressed carbon coated SiNWs–Ni electrode shows outstanding electrochemical performance. It achieves an initial capacity of as high as 2486mAh/g. A reversible capacity of 1500mAh/g is still retained even after 50 cycles of charging and discharging. The good performance could be attributed to the 3D Ni–C network current collector structure that provides flexible room to effectively accommodate the volume change of Si nanowires and minimizes loss of electrical contact after long time cycling. The 3D composite network provides a new design principle of robust and scalable lithium-ion battery electrodes that can effectively relieve the significant volume change problem. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The genetic relationship of Zostera marina was analyzed by AFLP marker. A total of 235 bands were detected from 63 individuals by 6 primer combinations, of which, 160 (68.09%) loci were polymorphic. The highest Nei''s gene diversity value (H) and Shannon''s information index value (I) were detected in population Clare (H = 0.072, I = 0.115), while the lowest were observed in population Jiaonan (H = 0.007, I = 0.011). Genetic identify values among 6 populations ranging from 0.66 to 0.92 were observed with the corresponding distance values ranging from 0.076 to 0.340. The results of AMOVA showed 83.29% genetic variation was found among populations and 16.71% within populations. According to UPGMA tree, population Tian''ehu was genetically closer to population Jiaonan than population Lidao, which might be attributable to eelgrass meadow fragments and some marine gyres/currents. The geographic distances were responsible for the genetic differentiation among populations from China, Japan, Korea and Ireland. The results of the present study emphasized the utility of DNA-based markers for conservation in genetically depauperate species, any future restoration and conservation projects locally used eco-sourced materials for population augmentations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The monophyly and phylogenetic relationships of Pseudosciaeniae have long been controversial. Here we describe the mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) sequence of Collichthys niveatus. It is a circular double-stranded DNA molecule of 16,450 base pairs (bp) in length with a standard set of 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 13 protein-coding genes as well as a non-coding control region. The mitogenome of C. niveatus shared common features with those of other bony fishes in terms of gene arrangement, base composition, and tRNA structures. The C. niveatus mitogenome exhibited pronounced strand-specific asymmetry in nucleotide composition, which was also reflected in the codon usage of genes oriented in opposite directions. Contrary to the typical structure of the control region, the central conserved blocks (CSB-D, -E, and -F) could not be detected in C. niveatus mitogenome. Phylogenetic analysis based on whole mitogenome sequences provided strong support for the monophyly of Pseudosciaeniae, and sister-group relationships of C. niveatus + Collichthys lucidus and Larimichthys crocea + Larimichthys polyactis, which was consistent with the traditional taxonomy. Unexpected divergence was found in two C. niveatus mitogenomes and several hypotheses were proposed to explain this observation including misidentification and introgressive hybridization between C. niveatus and L. polyactis, and polyphyletic origin of C. niveatus. We considered species misidentification to be the main hypothesis. However, additional data is essential to test these proposed hypotheses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Xiao-Xu-Ming decoction (XXMD) has long been employed clinically to treat stroke in traditional Chinese Medicine. Aim of the study: To investigate the neuroprotective effects of XXMD in vivo and in vitro stroke models and determine involved mechanisms. Materials and methods: Two models (four-vessel occlusion in adult Wistar rats and oxygen–glucose deprivation primary cultured neurons) were employed to mimic ischemia-reperfusion damage, in vivo and in vitro, respectively. The effects of XXMD were investigated with respect to neuronal damage, activity of caspase-3 and expression of Bcl-2 in CA1 region of hippocampus after ischemia. The cognitive ability was measured 7 days after ischemia/reperfusion by using Morris water maze. Results: Oral administration of XXMD significantly increased the density of neurons that survived in the CA1 region of hippocampus on the 3rd and 7th day after transient global ischemia was induced in a dose-dependent manner. XXMD ameliorated severe deficiencies in spatial cognitive performance induced by transient global ischemia. Inhibition of caspase-3 activity and up-regulation of Bcl-2 expression were induced in the high dose of XXMD-treated rats after ischemia. In oxygen–glucose deprivation model, both XXMD extract and drug-containing serum prepared from blood of high dose of XXMD-treated rats inhibited apoptotic neuronal death at 24h after reoxygenation. Conclusions: Our results clearly demonstrated that XXMD is neuroprotective and appears to influence deleterious pathological processes that are activated after the onset of ischemia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The influences of operational and structural parameters on the mean residence time (MRT) and the mass flow rate (MFR) of solids are presented on an experimental rotary kiln. Experimental results show that the increase of rotation speed and kiln slope reduces MRT and increases MFR. Also, MFR increases with increasing charge dam height. MRT increases when the rotation speed is lower than 2.0rpm but decreases when the rotation speed is higher than 2.0rpm with increasing dam height. Installation position of the feed pipe also has a significant effect on MFR. The product of MRT and MFR increases approximately linearly with MFR per kiln rotation at the same kiln slope. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: B cell antigen receptor (BCR) density plays a role in the differentiation of immature B cells to their mature compartments; however, the exact strategy of its influence on the development of natural autoreactive B cells is still unclear. In the present study, we explored the role of BCR surface density in autoreactive B cell development by studying two lines of mice containing distinct copy numbers of an IgH transgene with VH derived from a poly-reactive natural antibody 3B4. Surface BCR levels were found to be related to the transgene copy number in these mice. In mice with higher copy numbers of the transgene, the BCRs were found to promote the remaining of autoreactive B cells into marginal zone (MZ) and B-1a subsets; meanwhile, elevated surface BCR levels were correlated with a significant decrease of follicular (Fo) B cell numbers and a reduction in the number of multiple stages of immature B cells both in spleen and bone marrow (BM). Interestingly, no difference in the ratio of cell apoptosis and proliferation was found in all stages of B cell development between two lines, except that more severely aberrant proliferation of pro/pre-B cells in BM was found in mice with higher transgene copies. This data supports the idea that natural poly-reactive B cells can be positively selected into MZ and B-1 cells, and high BCR surface density favors this selection. More importantly, our data suggests that the influence by receptor expression on the differentiation of natural poly-reactive B cells begins at an early stage of B cell development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Shortcut deselenization saved roughly one half of operation time and carbon source. • Sulfide and selenite were co-removed abiotically at optimum pH of 10 and S/Se of 4. • The coupled process enabled >95% removal of both selenate and sulfide stably. • High-purity hexagonal selenium (97.4%) was formed for recover and reuse favorably. Selenate and sulfide are both contaminants which severely pollute water bodies. Respective bioremediation of selenate- and sulfide-contaminated wastewaters requires abundant electron donors and acceptors. Here, we present a novel concept coupling biological selenate to selenite (shortcut deselenization) and chemical sulfide-driven selenite reduction, to remove multiple pollutants simultaneously. Vial tests showed that shortcut deselenization could save at least two thirds of operation time and one third of carbon source, compared to the complete deselenization to elemental selenium. Subsequent co-removal of sulfide and selenite was optimized at reaction pH of ∼10 and reactant molar ratio of ∼4. Using a newly-designed continuous flow system, >95% removal of both selenate and sulfide was achieved by coupling shortcut deselenization to sulfide oxidation. A series of characterization tools revealed that the final collected precipitates were comprised of high-purity hexagonal selenium (97.4%, wt) and inconsiderable sulfur (2.6%, wt). Superior over selenate-reducing solutions generally producing selenium mixed with reagents or microorganisms, the selenium products generated here were highly purified thus very favorable for further recovery and reuse. Overall, this proof-of-concept study provided a promising technology not only for co-removal of multiple pollutants, but also for substantial costs saving, as well as for valuable products recovery. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Sulfide minerals at Xitieshan deposit have undergone metamorphism and deformation. • Trace elements have been released from recrystallized pyrite in schist-hosted ores. • Indium-Sn-Ag are preferentially incorporated into chalcopyrite under metamorphism. • Trace elements in sulfides are similar to metamorphosed massive sulfides elsewhere. • Original mineralization formed in a high-temperature, magmatic hydrothermal system. The effects of post-ore metamorphism and deformation on trace element concentrations in sulfides have recently received increasing attention. In this study, we report comprehensive petrographic observations combined with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) trace element analysis data of pyrite, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite to evaluate the influence of regional metamorphism and deformation on sulfide remobilization and trace element distribution in the metamorphosed volcanic-sediment-hosted Xitieshan deposit, NW China. The Xitieshan deposit, located in the central segment of the North Qaidam orogenic belt along the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, is one of the largest Pb-Zn producers in China. Marble-hosted mineralization accounts for approximately 80% of the total mineral resources with the rest hosted in schist in this deposit. Petrographic studies coupled with detailed field work revealed that sulfide minerals in marble-hosted mineralization generally preserve the primary ore textures well with respect to the original mineralization. In contrast, sulfide minerals in schist-hosted ores exhibit various brittle and ductile deformation textures, including cataclasis, recrystallization, annealing, Durchbewegung, fracture healing textures, and veinlets, indicating that sulfide remobilization during metamorphism and deformation was most likely achieved by the combination of mechanical and chemical processes. LA-ICP-MS trace element data for pyrite grains with inclusion-rich cores (Py1b) inside "clean" inclusion-free overgrowth (Py3) indicate that the recrystallization of pyrite both expels trapped inclusions and liberates trace elements such as Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ag, In, Sn, and Sb. Py3 contains more As than Py1, suggesting that the enrichment of As into recrystallized pyrite occurred during metamorphism. Compared to primary sphalerite (Sp1), the deformed counterpart (Sp2) is characterized by the depletion of In, which could be attributed to (a) remobilization of In into recrystallized chalcopyrite, and/or (b) remobilization and diffusion of In out of primary sphalerite and subsequent formation of the indium-bearing mineral during metamorphism. Indium, Sn, and Ag concentrations were significantly higher in recrystallized chalcopyrite grains than in other analyzed sulfide minerals, indicating that these elements are preferentially incorporated into chalcopyrite under metamorphic conditions. Trace element signatures for deformed and recrystallized pyrite, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite resemble previously reported data from other massive sulfide deposits that have undergone metamorphism and deformation elsewhere. Original mineralization at Xitieshan formed in a high-temperature, magmatically-driven hydrothermal system, which is indicated by the high Co/Ni ratios in pyrite, elevated concentrations of Sn in chalcopyrite and indium in sphalerite, and high calculated temperatures (350–420 ℃) by using the novel "Ga-Ge-In-Mn-Fe in sphalerite" geothermometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Metal-free carbon-based electrocatalysts are surveyed for electrochemical nitrogen and carbon dioxide reductions. • High-surface-area conductive porous carbon-based materials are excellent gas-diffusion electrodes. • Heteroatom doping strategy provides an effective approach for enhancing the electrocatalytic activity of carbon materials. • Single-element doping and dual-element doping of N, S, B, O and P in carbon-based electrocatalysts are discussed. To relieve greenhouse effect and energy crisis, the clean powers are growing to hold heavy shares, and electrolysis is a necessary supporting technique for large-scale conversion or long-term storage of the electricity. The electrocatalytic reductions, converting inert molecules (nitrogen and carbon dioxide) into high-value chemicals or fuels under mild conditions, have attracted tremendous attentions. In this scene, a high-surface-area conductive catalytic porous gas-diffusion-electrode is highly desired. Carbon nanomaterials as either active components or supports are being increasingly exploited for their large surface, conductance, abundance and low cost. The strategy of heteroatom doping in carbons is recently accentuated towards high catalytic performances, resulting from the regulation of electronic structures. In this review, the doping effect of the single element (N, S, B, O and P) in carbon-based nonmetallic electrocatalysts is surveyed for nitrogen and carbon dioxide reductions. The synergistic doping of double elements is also discussed. The challenges and prospects are additionally deliberated. It is envisaged that a comprehensive overview will spur the majorization of metal-free carbon-based electrocatalysts. This review thus aims to provide a guidance for the proof-of-concept design of efficient electrocatalysts to surmount present scientific bottlenecks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Unusual 18O depletion, with δ18O values as negative as −10‰ to −4‰ relative to VSMOW, was reported in zircons from ultrahigh-pressure eclogite-facies metamorphic rocks in the Dabie-Sulu orogenic belt, China. But it is critical for the negative δ18O zircons to be distinguished between magmatic and metamorphic origins, because the 18O depletion can be acquired by high-T eclogite-facies metamorphism of meteoric-hydrothermally altered low δ18O rocks. While zircon O diffusion kinetics has placed a reasonable constraint on this, zircon trace element compositions can provide a straightforward distinction between the magmatic and metamorphic origins. This paper reports our finding of unusual 18O depletion in zircon from granitic gneiss in the northeastern end of the Sulu orogen. Zircon δ18O values vary from −7.8‰ to −3.1‰ along a profile of 50m length at Zaobuzhen. They are close to extremely low δ18O values of −9.0‰ to −5.9‰ for metagranite at Qinglongshan and adjacent areas in the southwestern end of the Sulu orogen. CL imaging suggests that the low δ18O zircons at Zaobuzhen are primarily of magmatic origin, but underwent different degrees of metamorphic modification. Zircon U–Pb dating yields middle Neoproterozoic ages of 751±27 to 779±25Ma for protolith crystallization and Triassic ages of 214±10 to 241±33Ma for metamorphic resetting. However, no metamorphic modification occurs in zircon REE patterns that only indicate magmatic recrystallization and hydrothermal alteration, respectively. Thus, the negative δ18O zircons are interpreted as crystallizing from negative δ18O magmas due to melting of meteoric-hydrothermally altered negative δ18O rocks in an active rift setting at about 780Ma. The variation in zircon δ18O values indicates considerable O isotope heterogeneity in its granitic protolith. Zircon Lu–Hf isotope analyses give positive ε Hf(t) values of 1.6–4.1 and Hf model ages of 1.18–1.30Ga. This suggests that the granitic protolith was derived from the mid-Neoproterozoic reworking of late Mesoproterozoic juvenile crust. The metagranites at Zaobuzhen and Qinglongshan, about 450km apart, are two known occurrences of the unusually low δ18O zircons below −6‰ so far reported in the Sulu orogen. They are similar to each other in both protolith and metamorphic ages, so that they share the same nature of both Neoproterozoic protolith and Triassic metamorphism. Therefore, the locally negative δ18O zircons may register centers of low δ18O magmatism during the supercontinental rifting. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Numerous studies have contributed to the development of natural and synthetic antimicrobial peptides as a prospective source of antibiotic agents. Based on the concept that cationic charge, bulk, and lipophilicity are major factors determining antibacterial activity in these peptides, we designed and screened several combinatorial libraries based on 1,3,5-triazine as a template. A set of compounds were identified to show potent antimicrobial activity together with low hemolytic activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effects of salinity and Mg2+ alkalinity on the size and activity of the soil microbial communities were investigated. The study was conducted along the border area of the alluvial fan of the Taolai River. Thirty soil samples were taken which had an electrical conductivity (EC) gradient of 0.93–29.60mScm−1. Soil pH ranged from 8.60 to 9.33 and correlated positively with Mg2+/Ca2+ ratio, exchangeable Mg2+ percentage and HCO3 −+CO3 2−. Mg2+/Ca2+ varied considerably from 3.04 to 61.31, with an average of 23.03. Exchangeable Mg2+ percentage generally exceeded 60% and had a positive correlation with Mg2+/Ca2+. HCO3 −+CO3 2− averaged 1.63cmolkg−1 and usually did not exceed 2.0cmolkg−1. Microbial biomass, indices of microbial activity and the activities of the hydrolases negatively correlated with Mg2+/Ca2+ or exchangeable Mg2+ percentage. Biomass C, biomass N, microbial quotient (the percentage of soil organic C present as biomass C), biomass N as a percentage of total N, potentially mineralizable N, FDA hydrolysis rate and arginine ammonification rate decreased exponentially with increasing EC. The biomass C/N tended to be lower in soils with higher salinity and Mg2+ alkalinity, probably reflecting the bacterial dominance in microbial biomass in alkalized magnesic soils. The metabolic quotient (qCO2) positively correlated with salinity and Mg2+ alkalinity, and showed a quadratic relationship with EC, indicating that increasing salinity and Mg2+ alkalinity resulted in a progressively smaller, more stressed microbial communities which was less metabolically efficient. Consequently, our data suggest that salinity and Mg2+ alkalinity are stressful environments for soil microorganisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Oxygen isotope studies were carried out for ultrahigh-pressure metamorphic rocks from the main hole of the Chinese Continental Scientific Drilling in the Sulu orogen. The samples of interest include various types of lithology (mainly eclogite and gneiss) in a depth of 200 to 4000 m, containing five continuous core segments between contrasting lithologies. The results show a large variation in δ 18O value from −10.41 to 9.63‰ for constituent minerals. Distinct 18O depletions are observed in the frequently alternated layers of eclogite and gneiss, in which the variations of δ 18O values are gradual, regardless of lithologies. Both equilibrium and disequilibrium O isotope fractionations are observed between quartz and the other minerals. Special attention was paid to the relationship between distance, petrography and δ 18O value of adjacent samples. The results show O isotope heterogeneities between the different and same lithologies on scales of about 20 to 50 cm, corresponding to the maximum scales of fluid mobility during the continental collision. Amphibolite-facies retrograde metamorphism during exhumation caused mineral reactions and O isotope disequilibria between some of the minerals. Considerable changes occur in δ 18O and petrography at the contact between eclogite and gneiss, suggesting that the contact between different lithologies is the most favorable place for fluid activity. Despite the widespread retrogression, retrograde fluid was internally buffered in the stable isotope compositions. The retrograde fluid is of deuteric origin and thus was derived from the decompression exsolution of structural hydroxyl. Although locally external fluids became available along fault zones and lithological layers, it still acted within the exhumed slabs with internal origins. Fluid flow also took place after the amphibolite-facies retrogression, but it only affects the O isotope compositions of feldspar and mica. Premetamorphic protoliths are deduced to have heterogeneous δ 18O values due to varying degrees of meteoric water–rock interaction before continental collision. Minimum depth of the 18O depletion is up to 3300 m. Together with areal 18O depletion in surface outcropped rocks along the Dabie–Sulu orogenic belt, at least 66,000 km3 of supracrustal rocks were interacted with meteoric water along the northern margin of the South China Block during the Neoproterozoic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: By taking advantage of having depth profiles between contrasting lithologies from core samples of the Chinese Continental Scientific Drilling (CCSD) project, a combined study was carried out to examine changes in mineral H isotope, total water and hydroxyl contents in garnet and omphacite across the contacts between ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) eclogite and gneiss in the Sulu orogen, east-central China. The samples of interest were from two continuous core segments from the CCSD main hole at depths of 734.21–737.16 and 929.67–932.86m, respectively. The results show δD values of −116‰ to −64‰ for garnet and −104‰ to −82‰ for omphacite, consistent with incorporation of meteoric water into protoliths of UHP metamorphic rocks by high-T alteration. Both equilibrium and disequilibrium H isotope fractionations were observed between garnet and omphacite, suggesting fluid-assisted H isotope exchange at local scales during amphibolite-facies retrogression. While bulk water analysis gave total H2O concentrations of 522–1584ppm for garnet and 1170–20745ppm for omphacite, structural hydroxyl analysis yielded H2O contents of 80–413ppm for garnet and 228–412ppm for omphacite. It appears that significant amounts of molecular H2O are present in the minerals, pointing to enhanced capacity of water storage in the UHP eclogite minerals. Hydrogen isotope variations in the transition between eclogite and gneiss show correlations with variations in their water contents. Petrographically, the degree of retrograde metamorphism generally increases with decreasing distance from the eclogite–gneiss boundary. Thus, retrograde metamorphism results in mineral reactions and H isotope variation. Because hydroxyl solubility in nominally anhydrous minerals decreases with dropping pressure, significant amounts of water are expected to be released from the minerals during decompression exhumation. Decompression exsolution of structural hydroxyl from 1m3 volume of eclogite composed of only garnet and omphacite results in release of a quantitative estimate of 3.07–3.44kg water that can form 140–156kg amphibole during exhumation. Therefore, it is concluded that fluid for retrogression of the eclogites away from the eclogite–gneiss boundary was derived from the decompression exsolution of structural hydroxyl and molecular H2O in nominally anhydrous minerals. For the eclogites adjacent to gneiss, in contrast, the retrograde metamorphism was principally caused by aqueous fluid from the gneiss which is relatively rich in water. Consequently, both the origin and availability of metamorphic fluid during exhumation of deeply subducted continental crust are deciphered by this combined study focusing on the transitions and the retrograde processes between the felsic and mafic UHP rocks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) mediates pathogenic changes in the brain subsequent to energy deprivation; yet the NO mechanism involved in the early events remains unclear. We examined the acute effects of severe hypoxia and oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) on the endogenous NO production and the NO-mediated pathways involved in the intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) response in the rat hippocampal neurons. The levels of NO and [Ca2+]i in the CA1 region of the slices rapidly elevated in hypoxia and were more prominent in OGD, measured by the electrochemical method and spectrofluorometry, respectively. The NO and [Ca2+]i responses were enhanced by L-arginine and were reduced by NO synthase inhibitors, suggesting that the endogenous NO increases the [Ca2+]i response to energy deprivation. Nickel and nifedipine significantly decreased the NO and [Ca2+]i responses to hypoxia and OGD, indicating an involvement of L-type Ca2+ channels in the NO-mediated mechanisms. In addition, the [Ca2+]i responses were attenuated by ODQ or KT5823, inhibitors of the cGMP–PKG pathway, and by acivicin, an inhibitor of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase for S-nitrosylation, and by the thiol-alkylating agent N-ethylmaleimide (NEM). Moreover, L-type Ca2+ currents in cultured hippocampal neurons with whole-cell recording were significantly increased by L-arginine and were decreased by L-NAME. Pretreatment with NO synthase inhibitors or NEM but not ODQ abolished the effect of L-arginine on the Ca2+ currents. Also, vitamin C, which decomposes nitrosothiol but not disulfide by reduction, reversed the change in the Ca2+ current with L-arginine. Taken together, the results suggest that an elevated endogenous NO production enhances the influx of Ca2+ via the hippocampal L-type Ca2+ channel by S-nitrosylation during an initial phase of energy deprivation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been developed as a drug to be used for treatment of stroke for hundreds of years. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In the present study, the effects of BYHWD on delayed neuronal death of hippocampus after transient forebrain ischemia were examined in rats. Transient forebrain ischemia in a duration of 15 min was induced with the four-vessel occlusion method. BYHWD (per 6.65 g/kg) was given orally to rats twice each day for 7 days before ischemia. In BYHWD-pretreated rats, the neuronal injury in the hippocampal CA1 region was significantly less than that of controls. Oral administration of BYHWD also markedly attenuated the number of TUNEL-positive neurons and suppressed the expression of caspase-3p20, a product of catalytically active caspase-3, in the CA1 region. Our results suggest that an inhibition of caspase-3 and apoptosis by BYHWD may partially account for its neuroprotection against ischemic injury in the hippocampal CA1 region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recovering nitrogen and phosphorus from waste water in the form of struvite is an effective way to recycle resources. The insufficient purity of the resulting struvite and the large loss of nitrogen and phosphorus are the challenges at present. Therefore, it is urgent to develop innovative method in struvite crystallization process for efficient nitrogen and phosphorus recovery. This study proposed a crystallization method to reduce the loss of nitrogen and phosphorus by a struvite fluidized bed reactor (FBR) with optimized structure and operation conditions. The properties of struvite obtained under various conditions in the reactor were studied, and the internal operating conditions of the reactor were simulated with COMSOL Multiphysics to verify the effectiveness of the reactor optimization. This reactor achieved stable operation under the conditions of N/P = 1:1 and pH = 9.0. The purity of struvite obtained reached 98.5%, the conversion rate of ammonia nitrogen reached 97.2%, and struvite crystals could grow to 84 μm within 24 h. The simulation results showed that the Venturi tubes installed at multiple locations increased the turbulent energy to 4 × 10−4 m2/s2, which greatly improved the mass transfer efficiency. The trajectory of the crystal particles was consistent with the fluid flow field, which promoted the purification and growth of the crystal. In general, the new FBR with enhanced external recirculation would be a very feasible way to improve crystal growth and crystal purification of struvite, and it could enhance the recovery efficiency of nitrogen and phosphorus with reduced cost. Unlabelled Image • An innovative airlift external circulation FBR for struvite formation was designed. • It has superior N and P recovery efficiency compared with other methods. • The formed struvite particles have high purity and large size. • Multi-stream feeding reduces the localized supersaturation. • Venturi tubes has high turbulent dissipation rate to promote mass transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Doping of I− into Bi 2 WO 6 induced the lattice contraction of Bi 2 WO 6 nanosheets. • doping decreased potential energy of CB edge, reserving good oxidation ability. • doped Bi 2 WO 6 showed superior Hg0 photooxidation activity compared with Bi 2 WO 6. • DFT calculations and mechanism for I− doped Bi 2 WO 6 to oxidized Hg0 were elucidated. In this work, I–-doped Bi 2 WO 6 composites were synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal method, and the effect of iodine doping on their photocatalytic efficiency in gas-phase elemental mercury removal was evaluated under visible-light irradiation. The results showed that 1.0 wt.% iodine doped Bi 2 WO 6 exhibited the optimal Hg0 removal efficiency of 87.6 % and 97.5 % under N 2 +O 2 +CO 2 and N 2 +O 2 +CO 2 +SO 2 +NO conditions, respectively. The improved photocatalytic activity of Bi 2 WO 6 can be ascribed to the reduction in the potential energy of its conduction band and recombination rate of electron-hole pairs, as well as the acceleration of charge transfer. The density functional theory calculations showed that iodine was doped in the (WO 4)2– layer and oxidized HgO can be adsorbed on the surface of I– doped Bi 2 WO 6. The O Bi site was found to be exhibit weak adsorption with respect to HgO, implying that most conducive to the desorption of HgO. Finally, the photocatalysis mechanisms was elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fine-pitch and small line width Cu redistribution lines (RDLs) serve as the key factor in achieving high-density advanced fan-out packaging products. However, the dimension scaling of the next generation Cu RDL will cause more severe electromigration damage to the narrow Cu interconnects. The present study reported the microstructure variations and the failure mechanisms involved in an advanced 2μm/2 μm line/spacing Cu RDL interconnect under the electromigration experiment at an extremely high current density, 6 × 106 A/cm2, to investigate the electrical-thermal coupling interactions. The athermal electromigration effect induced rapid mass transport of Cu atoms, giving rise to RDL width reduction (migrated Cu depletion) and width growth (migrated Cu accumulation) phenomena. Meanwhile, the large amount of Joule heat generation induced the high-temperature material degradation of the polyimide (PI) dielectric layer and the delamination across the RDL/dielectric interface. The thermal stress resulting from the coefficient of thermal expansion mismatch further induced RDL displacement within the degraded PI dielectric layer near the current-stressed Cu RDL. The results suggest the predominant thermal electromigration effects on the PI degradation and RDL displacement. Image 1 • Athermal and thermal electromigration effects were characterized in the fine-pitch Cu interconnect. • The electrical-thermal coupling interactions induced a sudden open circuit occurrence. • The athermal effect induced migrated Cu depletion and accumulation in the RDL. • The thermal effect induced high-temperature dielectrics degradation and RDL deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stroke is a devastating event with a limited choice of intervention. Benzoinum is frequently used to treat stroke in traditional Chinese medicine. Our team has found that the neuroprotection of benzoinum may related to angiogenesis, but the exact biological mechanism is unclear. The objective of this study was to explore its biological mechanism of angiogenesis in cerebral ischemia model rats. First, network pharmacology and molecular docking were performed to predict the possible targets and mechanisms of benzoinum in treating ischemic stroke. The best dose was then selected according to pharmacodynamic indexes such as those for neurological deficit, cerebral infarction rate, and brain histopathology in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model rats. Finally, RT-PCR, Western Blot and immunohistochemical analysis were applied to verify the prediction results from molecular docking. Network pharmacology and molecular docking demonstrated that the targets of treating cerebral ischemia were PDE4D, ACE and TTR, and the mechanism may be related to the ACE-AngI-VEGF signaling pathway. Experimental verification results suggested that 0.50 g/kg and 1.00 g/kg benzoinum could significantly protect against neurological deficit and reduce cerebral infarction rate in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus in MCAO model rats. At an optimal dose, benzoinum could significantly up-regulate VEGF, SHH and ANG-1, yet down-regulate ACE expression in MCAO model rats. Balsamic acid is the active ingredient of benzoinum that protects against ischemic stroke and the possible mechanism is related to the promotion of angiogenesis via regulating ACE-AngI-VEGF pathway. Unlabelled Image • The combination methods were applied. • The possible neuroprotective effect of benzoinum is related to angiogenesis. • The angiogenesis is related to ACE-AngI-VEGF pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mercury removal performance of a low-cost recyclable CuCl 2 modified magnetospheres (Cu-MF) was investigated at a 50 MWth coal-fired power plant. An increase in the Cu-MF injection rate facilitated the mercury removal and recovery process. With the combination of the existing pollutant control devices and the Cu-MF injection, an overall mercury removal efficiency of 99.3% could be achieved. Under optimal conditions, the mercury emitted from the stack was reduced to 0.10 μg/m3. Most of the mercury in the flue gas migrated to the fly ash with the spent Cu-MF. Subsequently, through magnetic separation, 67.4% of the input mercury could be recovered. The comparison of experimental results showed that Cu-MF was more effective than fly ash in removing and recovering mercury from the flue gas. With the injection of Cu-MF, HgCl 2 was formed on the magnetospheres and was identified by the mercury-temperature-programmed decomposition (Hg-TPD) experiments. The magnetospheres with the lowest particle size showed the highest mercury removal capacity. This work is expected to provide valuable guidance for optimising the mercury removal technology in large scale commercial applications in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Palaeo-Tethys Ocean formed during the Devonian as a consequence of blocks separating from northern Gondwana. The record of the Palaeo-Tethys Ocean stretches across Eurasia from the European Alps eastward to the southwestern South China block (SCB). Tectonic domes of the SCB record the contraction, extension, decompression, and partial melting of deep crust that occurred as a result of detachment faulting and tectonic evolution of the Palaeo-Tethys Ocean. This study investigates post-orogenic (Kwangsian) extension and opening of the Palaeo-Tethys Ocean as recorded by the Motianling core complex in the southwestern SCB, based on structural analysis and 40Ar/39Ar geochronology. The Motianling core complex in the southernmost part of the Jiangnan fold belt comprises the Sanfang gneissic granite surrounded by low-grade metasedimentary rocks. The core complex records at least three deformation (D) events: pre-D 1 , D 1 , and D 2. The pre-D 1 event produced large-scale NE-striking folds with axial surface cleavages and was coeval with emplacement of the Sanfang batholith. D 1 deformation is represented by a top-to-the-NW ductile–brittle normal faulting system with mylonitic foliation and was coincident with greenschist-facies metamorphism, indicating that the core complex formed during NW–SE extension. D 2 deformation is dominated by Cenozoic NW–SE-trending normal faults. The timing of D 1 deformation and subsequent cooling was constrained by 40Ar/39Ar geochronology. Syn-kinematic muscovite yields an 40Ar/39Ar age of 417 ± 2.3 Ma (1σ) and suggests that the dome was initially developed in the Early Devonian through ductile shear zones. Magmatic biotite from the granitic mylonite yields a weighted mean 40Ar/39Ar age of 363.0 ± 3.1 Ma. Therefore, the Motianling core complex records at least two major stages of tectonic evolution: (1) Kwangsian (Caledonian) orogenic collapse and subsequent first-stage cooling at ∼417 to 363 Ma; and (2) Cenozoic regional extension and final cooling at ca. 45 Ma, as inferred from published apatite fission track data. The present results, combined with previous studies, indicate that the D 1 deformation event resulted in the formation and exhumation of the Motianling core complex in a continental rifted margin during the opening of the Palaeo-Tethys Ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Wheat mainly absorbed water from 0−20 cm soil layer at jointing and harvest stages. • Subsoiling with straw returning improves wheat yield and water use efficiency. • Wheat yield and water use efficiency can be indicated by Δ13C of organs. To quantify the water absorbed by wheat in different soil layers and improve both wheat yields and water use efficiency (WUE), a 2-year conservation tillage and straw treatment experiment was implemented. This experiment involved four tillage methods, conventional tillage (C), subsoiling (S), rotary tillage (R), and no-tillage (N), and two straw treatments, straw return (W) and no straw return (0). The hydrogen, oxygen and carbon stable isotope method was used to evaluate the water source, grain yield, dry matter quantity and WUE of wheat as well as the relationships between Δ13C values of the wheat leaves, stems, ears and yield and the WUE under different tillage and straw treatment methods at the jointing and harvest stages. The results indicated that wheat water uptake occurred mainly within the 0–20 cm (86.22 %) soil layer at the jointing stage and within the 0–20 (56.36 %) and 20–40 cm (38.74 %) soil layers at the harvest stage. Compared with those in the C-0 treatment, the dry matter quantity in the S–W treatment increased by 14.86 % and 14.20 % respectively, at the jointing stage and the harvest stage; the grain yield in the S-W treatment significantly increased by 18 % at the harvest stage (P < 0.05); the WUE t and WUE i in the S-W treatment significantly increased by 46.21 % and 45.31 %, respectively, at the jointing stage (P < 0.05); and the WUE y increased by 5.69 % and 5.54 %, respectively, at the jointing stage and the harvest stage. The Δ13C vales of the wheat leaves, stems and ears were positively correlated with the yield, dry matter quantity and WUE of wheat. In conclusion, subsoiling with straw return should be adopted as a promising strategy for improving both wheat productivity and WUE and for retaining soil water availability. The Δ13C value of wheat organs can be used to indicate changes in wheat yield and WUE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO 2 , a major cause of global warming, is also an important substrate for the crop photosynthesis. However, there are few data to explain the contribution of soil CO 2 emission to crop photosynthesis. In order to separate the sources of CO 2 involved in photosynthesis, stable isotope and Keeling plot methods were used under a long-term experiment. Under each condition, maize was covered by a chambers, among which three chambers were laid on the ground with 500 g Ca(OH) 2 inside to absorb soil CO 2 emissions (ck) and another three chambers did not contain Ca(OH) 2. The results showed that A, g s , T r and WUE i increased by 13.98, 12.81, 16.76 and 1.51%, however, δ13C, C i /C a , and WUE t decreased by 5.51, 8.57, and 3.56% than those in ck, respectively. The CO 2 recycling index was 0.82–0.90, and the contribution of soil emissions to photosynthesis was 20.37%–29.03%. Thus, maize photosynthetic rate can be improved with higher soil carbon emission to the canopy. This process merits further study as to how to regulate soil emission to increase agronomic yield with less carbon emission in farmland. • The contribution of soil respiration to photosynthesis was 20.37%–29.03%. • Photosynthetic capture reduced net CO 2 emission by 25.31%. • Soil respiration had a positive effect on maize intrinsic water use efficiency. • Conservation tillage can effectively sequester atmospheric carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Twenty-one patients successfully recovered active wrist extension. • Motor imagery based BCI control of wrist CPM training was applied. • Typical spatial and spectrum patterns of ERD/ERS formed after training. Motor recovery of wrist and fingers is still a great challenge for chronic stroke survivors. The present study aimed to verify the efficiency of motor imagery based brain-computer interface (BCI) control of continuous passive motion (CPM) in the recovery of wrist extension due to stroke. An observational study was conducted in 26 chronic stroke patients, aged 49.0 ± 15.4 years, with upper extremity motor impairment. All patients showed no wrist extension recovery. A 24-channel highresolution electroencephalogram (EEG) system was used to acquire cortical signal while they were imagining extension of the affected wrist. Then, 20 sessions of BCI-driven CPM training were carried out for 6 weeks. Primary outcome was the increase of active range of motion (ROM) of the affected wrist from the baseline to final evaluation. Improvement of modified Barthel Index, EEG classification and motor imagery pattern of wrist extension were recorded as secondary outcomes. Twenty-one patients finally passed the EEG screening and completed all the BCI-driven CPM trainings. From baseline to the final evaluation, the increase of active ROM of the affected wrists was (24.05 ± 14.46)˚. The increase of modified Barthel Index was 3.10 ± 4.02 points. But no statistical difference was detected between the baseline and final evaluations (P > 0.05). Both EEG classification and motor imagery pattern improved. The present study demonstrated beneficial outcomes of MI-based BCI control of CPM training in motor recovery of wrist extension using motor imagery signal of brain in chronic stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient regioselective and operationally simple urea bromination method utilizing PIDA and potassium bromide is reported. This protocol proved to be effective on a broad range of substituted ureas in acetone at room temperature, forming the p -brominated compounds in 44–86% yields. Image 1 • A novel and efficient protocol of metal-free aryl C–H bond bromination of ureas has been developed, in which simple and readily available bromide salt is employed as the bromine source. • This convenient conditions make this protocol very easy to handle and practical. • Besides, the present method tolerates a variety of functional groups and allows the synthesis of diverse 4-brominated urea derivatives in moderate to excellent yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]