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Superalloy microholes resulting from electrical discharge drilling (EDD) can have recast layers and microcracks on the machined surfaces. In this study, the abrasive water flow polishing (AWFP) of superalloy microholes machined by EDD was investigated. The recast layer and surface roughness resulting from the EDD process were evaluated through orthogonal experiments. The machining mechanism of AWFP was analyzed. The effects of AWFP parameters were investigated experimentally. The results show that the material removal rate and surface roughness at the hole exit were better than those at the entrance for one-directional fluid flow during the process. Garnet abrasives achieved better polished roughness and a lower material removal rate than alumina abrasives. The taper angle of the target holes changed slightly from positive to negative after AWFP. The corner edge was slightly rounded on the fluid inlet side. Using a bidirectional fluid resulted in better dimensional uniformity and surface roughness at the entrance and exit. This study verified that AWFP can remove the recast layer and microcracks on the hole wall caused by EDD and reduce the surface roughness from an initial Ra of 5.7 μm to an Ra of 0.6 μm. • The AWFP of superalloy microholes produced by EDD was investigated for the first time. • AWFP with bidirectional fluid can achieve better dimensional uniformity and roughness than that with single direction fluid. • The hole taper caused by EDD can be reduced 50% after bidirectional AWFP. • The AWFP can effectively remove the recast layer and microcracks on the hole wall caused by EDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • FCDI effectively removes Cr (VI) from wastewater using CNT incorporated AC flow-electrode at lower voltage. • Coexisting ions have minimal impact on Cr (VI) removal efficiency. • FCDI transforms hazardous Cr (VI) to less toxic Cr (III) form. • CNT incorporation improves the contact efficiency and accelerates charge transfer between AC particles. The contamination of wastewater with hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI) poses significant health and environmental risks. To alleviate this challenge, our research explores the potential of flow electrodes capacitive deionization (FCDI) technique, an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly approach, for Cr (VI) removal and detoxification. We incorporated varying weight loadings of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into activated carbon (AC) flowable electrodes, and assessed the system's performance under different operational conditions. Our findings revealed that by adding just 1.5 wt% CNT to AC and applying a voltage of 0.9 V, the current response increased 3.4 times compared to that of pure AC flowable electrode, resulting in a remarkable Cr (VI) removal efficiency of 99.5 %. This study also revealed that the presence of high concentrations of co-existed chloride ions (Cl−) did not significantly influence the efficiency of Cr (VI) removal. Incorporation of CNT in AC flow electrodes reduced the inter-tube aggregation and enhanced the contact efficiency between the AC particles, forming a connecting percolation network and enhancing the conductivity of the slurry electrodes for Cr (VI) removal. In addition to Cr (VI) removal, FCDI technique transformed extremely dangerous Cr (VI) to less toxic Cr (III) from 5.4 to 49.8 % during multiple cycles. In summary, we presented an innovative, efficient, eco-friendly approach for Cr (VI) removal and detoxicity by using CNTs incorporated electrodes, underscoring the potential FCDI technology in heavy metal disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The dissolution difficulty in metal chlorine solution followed the order of HgSO 4 < HgO < HgS. • NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgSO 4 to generate HgCl 2. • MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgO to produce HgCl 2. • Only CuCl 2 could react with HgS to produce HgCl 2. • CuCl 2 solution could protect active site of metal oxide adsorbents and avoid the reduction of HgCl 2 to Hg 2 Cl 2. Washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent not only has good economic benefits, but also effectively avoids the secondary pollution of Hg caused by the accumulation or landfill of used Hg adsorbents. The common Hg-containing substances on used Hg adsorbent are HgS, HgO, HgSO 4 , and HgCl 2 , which requires the solution to be able to react with insoluble HgS, HgO, and HgSO 4 to produce easy-soluble HgCl 2. Considering the characteristics of containing Cl ion and oxidation capacity, metal chloride solution was chosen for washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent. In this study, the reaction between HgS, HgO, HgSO 4 and metal chlorine solutions including NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 were separately studied using thermodynamic calculation software (FactSage 5.2). The subsequent supporting experiments were also conducted for verifying the correctness of thermodynamic calculation. The results showed that without the input of external energy, all the NaCl, KCl, CeCl 3 , MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgSO 4 to generate HgCl 2. While only MnCl 2 , AlCl 3 , CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , and CuCl 2 solutions could react with HgO to produce HgCl 2 , and only CuCl 2 solution could react with HgS to produce HgCl 2. The leaching and dissolution difficulty in metal chlorine solution followed the increasing order of HgSO 4 < HgO < HgS. Finally, the feasibility of the precipitation method using NaOH solution for separating Hg2+ was verified by combining the thermodynamic calculation results, characterization and tests (ICP-OES and Hg-XPS) results. Considering CuCl 2 was the only solution that could react HgS, HgO, and HgSO 4 to produce HgCl 2 , and could protect active site of common metal oxide for Hg removal, as well as had a good oxidation ability for avoiding the reduction of HgCl 2 to insoluble Hg 2 Cl 2 , CuCl 2 solution was finally determined as the suitable solution for washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Magnetic luffa sponge derived graphene aerogel incorporated with CuFe 2 O 4. • Aerogels with excellent superhydrophobic stability and high surface area. • High adsorption capacity and selectively with excellent recyclability. • Magnetic control technology for continuous oil–water separation. In this study, a novel magnetic composite material comprising luffa sponge derived graphene aerogel embedded with hollow CuFe 2 O 4 nanospheres (LGN) is successfully synthesised for the first time by a clean and low-cost one-step solvothermal electrostatic co-assembly method. The resultant LGN aerogel exhibits superhydrophobic and superoleophilic properties with the water and oil contact angles of 162.1° and 0°, respectively, along with magnetic properties characterized by the saturation magnetization of 51.6 emu/g, and a large specific surface area of 218.8 m2/g. The saturation sorption capacity of LGN for organic solvents/oil is found to be in the range of 47.6–86.8 g/g, exhibiting an excellent oil/water emulsion separation ability. Through the capillary action, oil and organic solvents spontaneously penetrate into the interior of the aerogel, while the superhydrophobic surface prevents water from entering, thereby enabling the separation of oil and water. These characteristics enable the real-time sorption of organic pollutants from water, with the capability of exhausted sorbent being regenerated. Notably, even after 20 sorption-volatilisation cycles, the saturated sorption capacity of LGN remains high at the 92.2 % of the initial value, demonstrating a remarkable recycling performance. In addition, LGN can exhibit an oriented sorption performance by controlling the applied magnetic field, enabling sorbent recycling even under extreme environmental conditions. Such an effective strategy offers a new route to high value utilisation of biomass waste with significant potential in the field of oil spill treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The influence of gasification medium on Hg0 release and oxidation were elucidated. • The inhibition and promotion of gasification products on Hg0 oxidation were explained. • The advantages and disadvantages of common OC on Hg0 oxidation were summarized. • The effects of reaction temperature and reactor configuration on Hg0 release and oxidation were introduced. • Appropriate H 2 O(g) content, OC with weak adsorption and strong oxidation capacity, and suitable AR temperature were suggested. Chemical looping combustion (CLC) of coal can effective achieve the capture and storage of CO 2 , reduce the emission of NO x , and realize the energy cascade utilization. During the process of CLC, mercury (Hg) will release from coal and enrich in gas. If Hg has not been effectively treated, it will not only cause the serious harm to human body and environment, but also affect the purification and storage of CO 2 by mixing with CO 2 , as well as lead to the corrosion of equipment, which highlights the importance of Hg removal in CLC. This review summarized the influence and mechanism of gasification medium (signal CO 2 , signal H 2 O vapor, as well as mixture of CO 2 and H 2 O vapor), gasification products (CO, H 2 , NH 3 , HCl, and H 2 S), oxygen carrier (single metal oxides of Fe 2 O 3 , MnO 2 , Co 3 O 4 , CuO, and CeO 2 , CaSO 4 , mixed OC, and natural-ores OC), reaction temperature, as well as reactor configuration in fuel reactor and air reactor on the release, oxidation, and transfer of Hg in CLC of coal. Based on these above, several suggestions about the selection of appropriate H 2 O(g) content to minimize the release of Hg and promote the oxidation of Hg0, the selection of OC with weak adsorption capacity and strong oxidation performance, the preparation and application of Cu, Mn, Co spinel structured oxides for promoting the catalytic oxidation of Hg0 in CLC high-temperature furnace, and the choice of an appropriate air reactor temperature to maximize the oxidation of Hg0 in the AR and reduce the escape of Hg from the AR outlet were provided for promoting the removal of Hg for CLC in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work developed a strategy for rapid microwave-assisted refining of eucalyptus wood in 30 min using a ternary DES (lactic acid: choline chloride: polyethylene glycol 400, 10:1 + 5%) with an excellent delignification rate of 89.73%. The test of Kamlet−Taft solvatochromic parameters of DESs shows that the acidity and polarity of the solution greatly influence the delignification rate. The polyethylene glycol 400 increased the solubility of lignin in the solvent, improved the delignification rate, and protected cellulose from degradation. The gel permeation chromatography, 2D-HSQC NMR, and 31P NMR analysis show that the lignin obtained after DES treatment had low molecular weight, small polydispersity index, and relatively rich content of β-O-4 and phenolic hydroxyl groups, which has great application potential in high-value-added products from lignin. At the same time, the main products of the simulated reaction of the lignin model compound were monophenols and Hibbert ketone, and the possible reaction mechanism of changes in lignin during treatment was given. Our study lays a foundation for applying DES in biomass refining and the high-value utilization of lignin. [Display omitted] • Sustainable lignin isolation method from eucalyptus wood using non-toxic solvent, 89.73% delignification in 30 min. • This mild method required no high pressure, long reaction times or complex equipment. • The DES lignin had properties suitable for applications with low Mw, narrow PDI, and high phenolic content. • The study comprehensively examined solvent functional group and K-T parameter effects on treatment. • The reaction mechanism was proposed based on the simulated reaction of lignin model compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Atmospheric degradation performance of passive coating on tinplate is studied by EIS. • Two models for passive coating failure have been proposed based on EIS data fitting. • The proposed failure models correspond well to findings by SIMS characterizations. • EIS measurement has a great potential in degradation evaluation of passive coatings. Understanding the atmospheric exposure induced degradation of passive coating is of substantial importance in gaining information regarding degradation behavior of the coating itself and its protection effect to underlying substrate. In this work, the structural evolution of a pre-engineered passive Cr 2 O 3 coating on tinplate under atmospheric exposure conditions has been interpretated based on EIS responses to structural evolution of the passive coating. Results indicate that the EIS data interpretation by graphical method can accurately provide parameters of coating thickness δ and CPE parameter n that are associated with structural evolution and corrosion resistance of the passive coating. Following the evolutions in δ and n , two degradation patterns be determined. The first relates an initial degradation in outer layer under high humidity condition and then the failure of inner layer. The second relates an initially moderate but then an excessive growth in the inner layer under high temperature condition, which results in a structural heterogeneity in the inner layer and thus the degradation in corrosion resistance. Such evolutions correspond well to the result by SIMS characterizations. Therefore, EIS measurement can provide an accurate and detailed evaluation on degradation behavior of a passive coating under atmospheric exposure conditions, and it is believed to have a great potential in industrial practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop eco-friendly composite dust suppressants to mitigate the adverse impact of coal mine dust on worker health and the environment. An environmentally friendly dust suppressant with bonding and wetting effects was prepared by combining modified pectin as a binder and a non-toxic surfactant as a wetting agent. Optimal ratios of sodium carboxylate ethoxylate sulfate (LMES), isomeric alcohol ethoxylate (XL-70), and modified pectin were determined through experiments. The modified pectin exhibited stronger wetting properties on coal powder due to its increased hydrophilicity. Wetting performance tests confirmed its excellent performance. Film-forming and scanning electron microscope tests demonstrated the dust suppressant's ability to bond with coal dust, resulting in a smooth surface and closely connected particles. Environmental tests showed its non-toxicity and degradability. Spraying dust reduction tests revealed a significant average increase of 40.51 % in dust reduction rate compared to water spraying, effectively lowering dust concentration. These findings have practical implications for the development of eco-friendly composite dust suppressants and controlling underground dust in coal mines, benefiting worker health and environmental sustainability. • A dust suppressant was developed using modified pectin and a non-toxic, non-corrosive surfactant, demonstrating its environmentally friendly nature. • The dust suppressant exhibited outstanding wetting capabilities, effectively penetrating and covering coal dust particles. • The dust suppressant effectively bonded with coal dust, resulting in a smooth surface and tightly connected particles. • The dust suppressant proved to be non-toxic to plants and readily degradable, with minimal impact on the environment. • The dust suppressant outperformed water spraying in dust reduction tests, significantly reducing coal dust concentration in underground coal mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the association between perceived stress and depression among medical students and the mediating role of insomnia in this relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic in China.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to April 2020 in medical university. Levels of perceived stress, insomnia and depression were measured using Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9). The descriptive analyses of the demographic characteristics and correlation analyses of the three variables were calculated. The significance of the mediation effect was obtained using a bootstrap approach with SPSS PROCESS macro.Results: The mean age of medical students was 21.46 years (SD=2.50). Of these medical students, 10,185 (34.3%) were male and 19,478 (65.7%) were female. Perceived stress was significantly associated with depression (β=0.513, P < 0.001). Insomnia mediated the association between perceived stress and depression (β=0.513, P < 0.001). The results of the non-parametric bootstrapping method confirmed the significance of the indirect effect of perceived stress through insomnia (95% bootstrap CI =0.137, 0.149). The indirect effect of insomnia accounted for 44.13% of the total variance in depression.Conclusions: These findings contribute to a better understanding of the interactive mechanisms underlying perceived stress and depression, and elucidating the mediating effects of insomnia on the association. This research provides a useful theoretical and methodological approach for prevention of depression in medical students. Findings from this study indicated that it may be effective to reduce depression among medical students by improving sleep quality and easing perceived stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The novel washing regeneration methods for AC using CuCl 2 solution was proposed and verified. • CuCl 2 solution showed excellent performance on eluting Hg-containing compounds on spent AC. • Elution process restored the well-developed pore structure and reactive functional groups of AC. • CuCl 2 -AC showed a higher (above 99%) and more stable Hg removal performance than raw AC. • Hg-containing compounds on spent CuCl 2 -AC were mainly easy-soluble HgCl 2. Mercury pollution in syngas has received increasing attention. Regeneration of AC can reduce the cost and avoid Hg secondary release effectively. The performance of CuCl 2 solution on AC regeneration was studied combining fixed-bed reactor, Hg-TPD, and characterization tests (BET, SEM-EDS, XPS, and FT-IR). Hg adsorption on AC in N 2 mainly followed physisorption. There was a synergistic contribution of HCl and H 2 S on Hg removal, in which HCl promotion was stronger than H 2 S. The main Hg-containing compounds on AC in HCl were HgCl 2 and HgO, in H 2 S were HgO and HgS. The well-developed pore structure of AC enhanced Hg adsorption while inhibited the elution of Hg-containing compounds. CuCl 2 solution exhibited an excellent synergy in the elution of Hg-containing compounds and the impregnation modification of AC, which not only eluted the Hg-containing compounds, restored the well-developed pore structure, and recovered the reactive oxygen-containing functional groups effectively, but also brought in Cu and Cl for promoting Hg removal by generating Hg-Cu and HgCl 2 respectively. The best impregnation content of CuCl 2 was 10% that exhibited higher (above 99%) and more stable Hg removal efficiency than raw AC, and the dominant Hg-containing compound was easy-soluble HgCl 2 , proving the practicability of CuCl 2 solution on AC regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effects and mechanisms of CO, H 2 , NH 3 and HCl on HgS and HgO generation in H 2 S atmosphere were respectively clarified. • The species and stability of Hg-containing products in H 2 S + CO, H 2 S + H 2 , and H 2 S + NH 3 , and H 2 S + HCl were respectively determined. • The feasibility of adjusting the syngas components and modifying by CuCl 2 impregnation for promoting the solution washing regeneration were respectively evaluated. • The effect and promotional mechanism about the impregnation modification of CuCl 2 were respectively determined. Inhibiting the generation of insoluble HgO and HgS, as well as promoting the generation of HgCl 2 can significantly contribute to the solution washing regeneration of adsorbent for Hg removal in syngas. In this study, CeO 2 -MnO 2 /TiO 2 (Ce-Mn/Ti) was chosen as the Hg adsorbent, the fixed-bed test, Hg-TPD, and characterization test (including BET, SEM-EDS, and XPS) were conducted. Firstly, the effects of different concentrations of CO, H 2 , NH 3 , and HCl on the generation of HgS, HgO, and HgCl 2 on adsorbent was investigated. Although the increase of CO, H 2 , and NH 3 concentration can inhibit the generation of HgS and HgO to different extents, and the increase of HCl concentration can promote the production of HgCl 2 , but they will also lead to the increase in Hg concentration to varying degrees, indicating the adjustment on syngas components and concentrations is not a feasible method. Subsequently, the effects of different concentrations of modification reagent with CuCl 2 were studied. The optimal impregnation ratio of CuCl 2 was determined as 10%, in which the Hg removal efficiency in H 2 S atmosphere could reach over 97%, and almost of the Hg-containing product was easy-soluble HgCl 2. The great advantage of impregnation modification of CuCl 2 is attributed to the uniform and dense distribution of CuCl 2 , as well as the strong activity of CuCl 2 itself towards Hg0 oxidation to HgCl 2. The impregnation modification of CuCl 2 can significantly improve the Hg removal efficiency, inhibit the generation of HgS and HgO, and promote the generation of HgCl 2 , which is verified as a feasible method to improve the solution washing regeneration of Hg adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer immunotherapy has been demonstrated as a promising therapeutic strategy in clinic owing to its unique advantages. However, although more and more immunotherapeutic agents have been approved for clinical use to activate the immune system, they also could interfere with the homeostatic role of immune system at non-target sites after systemic administration, which may be associated with fatal side effects such as lifelong autoimmune diseases. Thus, it is desirable to develop local delivery systems that could be applied at the targeted sides and engineered to locally control the pharmacokinetics of various immunotherapeutics, including small molecules, macromolecules or even cells. Advancements in biomaterials, biotechnology, nanomedicine and engineering have facilitated the development of local delivery systems for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. This review will summarize the recent advances in developing different local delivery systems and discuss how these delivery systems could be designed to regulate the release behavior of different immunotherapeutics to sustainably stimulate the systemic immune system, effectively and safely inhibiting the cancer recurrence and metastasis. Furthermore, we will discuss how biomaterials-assisted local delivery systems would contribute to the development of cancer immunotherapy, together with their challenges and potential of clinical translation. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diverse evidence has suggested that the gut microbiome is closely associated with overall human health. Modulation of the gut microbiome through nutritional intervention is recognized as a robust and attainable strategy to prevent disorders/diseases and improve human health. However, universal dietary recommendations demonstrated to have different, sometimes even opposite, effects due to the considerable inter-individual variability between subjects, especially in the gut microbiome. Hence, implementation of personalized nutrition or other treatment strategies have been suggested to tackle the individuality problem. A first step into this direction includes the stratification of subjects into specific groups based on their gut microbiome. The gut microbiome could serve as a pool of potential biomarkers for distinguishing "responders" and "non-responders" to specific treatments, which subsequently can be used to classify subjects with ambition to increase treatment efficacy. In this review, we explain the need for human gut microbiome stratification, introduce the concepts and show with specific examples potential options of microbiome-based stratifications. Finally, we propose a strategy for how microbiome-based stratification can be introduced to obtain improvements in dietary efficacy that can be implemented in real-life settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hastelloy C-276 alloy is the preferred substrate for YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ (YBCO) coated conductors prepared by Ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD) route, but its surface is too rough to meet application requirements. Y(CH 3 COO) 3 ·4H 2 O precursor solution has a low flattening efficiency, and its film edges are prone to crack formations. In this paper, a model for the stress intensity factor was established to study the effect of the presence of cracks on film stress. The simulation results showed that increasing the coating thickness reduced the overall stress, but increased the stress concentration at the crack. The larger bottom layer defects also made it easier for cracks to be generated. Then, 10-m long Hastelloy C-276/Y 2 O 3 strips were prepared by colloidal-solution deposition planarization (CSDP), with an average surface roughness Rq of 0.427 and only 10 coating layers. This improved the flattening efficiency by 40 %, and a CeO 2 layer with a good biaxial texture was finally prepared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of initial alloy state on hot deformation and dynamic recrystallization (DRX) of GH984G alloy, used to manufacture large scale forgings for 700 °C advanced ultra-supercritical (A-USC) coal-fired power plants, was studied by isothermal compression test. The experimental results show that the apparent activation energy of hot deformation for the as-cast alloy is larger than that of the hot-rolled alloy. The reasonable ranges of processing parameters for the as-cast and hot-rolled alloys are 1100–1200 °C/0.01–0.5 s−1 and 1100–1200 °C/1.0–10 s−1, respectively, based on the processing maps. The flow instability domain of the as-cast alloy is larger than that of the hot-rolled alloy. The different hot deformation behaviors of the as-cast and hot-rolled alloys result from the various initial grain sizes and DRX mechanisms. The main DRX nucleation mode of the as-cast alloy with large grains is continuous dynamic recrystallization (CDRX). However, for the hot-rolled alloy with fine grains, the discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (DDRX) is dominant. • Investigate the effect of initial state on hot deformation of a Ni-Fe based alloy. • The main DRX mechanism of as-cast and hot-rolled alloys is CDRX and DDRX. • Establish the relationship between the optimal deformation parameter and DRX mechanism. • Confine the initial alloy state in the isothermal compression test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic properties and microstructure of Sm(Co 0.647 Fe 0.28 Cu 0.053 Zr 0.02) 7.84 magnets prepared by HD powder with different residual hydrogen content (25, 715, 1512 ppm) have been investigated. The squareness and coercivity increase from 0.56 to 0.63 and 24.03 to 26.37 kOe as the hydrogen content increased from 25 to 1512 ppm. TEM results show that similar cellular structure and lamellar structures are formed in these magnets. Due to superabundant vacancies induced by hydrogen, the average grain size of final magnets increases from 50.22 to 62.29 μm with the increase of hydrogen in HD powder. Larger grain size results in fewer grain boundary areas where no clear cellular structure formed. The kerr observation indicate that the reversal domain formed at the grain boundary areas is easier to grow up, while the reversal of in-grain domain shows much harder. • The sintered 2:17 type Sm-Co magnets are prepared by powders with hydrogen. • The H cj and squareness can be improved with higher H content in HD powder. • Larger grain size in 2:17-type SmCo magnets with higher H content in HD powder. • Larger grain size, less grain boundaries, less weaker pining sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Grain boundary modification induced giant coercivity enhancement from 945 kA/m to 1904 kA/m was achieved in Sm 25 Co 48 Fe 20 Cu 5 Zr 2 magnets by doping 0.4 wt% CuO. Different magnetization reversal behaviors were clearly observed between un-doped and doped magnets. Compared with un-doped magnets, Cu enrichment along grain boundary promoting regular cellular structure was obviously found in doped magnet. The in-situ Kerr observation indicated that complete cellular structure could strengthen the pinning field of grain boundary regions and the propagations of magnetization reversals into interiors of grains were restrained by the modified grain boundaries, which resulted in the remarkable coercivity increment. Highlights • Enhanced coercivity from 945 kA/m to 1904 kA/m is achieved. • Complete cellular structure is formed in modified grain boundary areas. • Magnetization reversal differences occur between un-doped and doped SmCo magnets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A novel smart membrane with ion-recognizable nanogels as gates on interconnected pores is developed for simple and rapid detection of trace lead(II) ions in water. The membrane is prepared via one-step vapor-induced phase separation (VIPS) method, and featured with interconnected porous structure and Pb2+-responsive poly(N -isopropylacrylamide- co -benzo-18-crown-6-acrylamide) (PNB) nanogels on polyethersulfone (PES) membrane pore surfaces as gates. Afforded by such a unique architecture, both high flux and significant responsive characteristics are achieved. With the proposed strategy, the nanogels are fixed onto the membrane pore surfaces during the formation of interconnected porous structure; thus, the immobilization of nanogels onto the membrane pore surfaces does not result in the decrease of pore sizes. The water fluxes of fabricated membranes could be even higher than 6000 kg m−2 h−1 driven by the static pressure of 20 cm water column under gravity at 34 °C, because of the three-dimensionally interconnected porous structures. Due to high sensitivity and selectivity of PNB nanogels on the membrane pore surfaces in response to Pb2+ ions, the fabricated membranes can efficiently detect Pb2+ ions with a limit of detection as low as 10−9 mol/L. With the proposed novel membrane, rapid detection of trace lead(II) ions in water can be easily achieved by simply monitoring the trans-membrane flux change in a gravity-driven membrane module device, which is highly potential and promising in real-time and easy-to-popularize monitoring of drinking water safety and may expand the scope of applications of facile detection techniques. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • A novel membrane is fabricated with ion-recognizable nanogels as gates on interconnected pores. • The membrane is featured with both high flux and significant responsive characteristics. • The membrane can be used to detect trace lead(II) ions in water with a gravity-driven device. • The membrane can efficiently detect Pb2+ ions with a limit of detection as low as 10−9 mol/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • SRT CB phases are used to improve the temperature stability of coercivity. • The β is improved by two orders of magnitude than traditional 2:17 SmCo magnet. • A 2:17 type magnet with both low α and β is first developed. Abstract Spin-reorientation-transition cell boundary phases are used to improve the temperature stability of coercivity in 2:17 type SmCo magnets. A magnet with both low temperature coefficients of remanence (α) and coercivity (β) is developed. In comparison with traditional 2:17 type SmCo magnets with low temperature coefficient of remanence, this magnet exhibits comparable (BH) max and α , meanwhile the β (20–100 °C) is improved by more than two orders of magnitude. The comparative study of reversible magnetization/irreversible magnetizations indicates that the flux losses of this magnet are barely affected by temperature, which is an remarkable improvement in developing temperature-stable magnet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A novel composite catalytic membrane is developed by blending silicon oxide coated ferroferric oxide (Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2) nanoparticles in polyether sulfone (PES) membrane as Fenton-like catalysts via liquid-induced phase separation (LIPS) method. By introducing Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 nanoparticles in PES membrane matrix, the surface hydrophilicity, porosity and mean pore diameter of as-prepared composite catalytic membranes are improved due to the hydrophilic nature of the SiO 2 coating layer on the Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 nanoparticles. The as-fabricated catalytic membrane can filter large particles above ~100 nm and shows a high water flux of 2084 kg m−2 h−1 under 0.1 MPa. Importantly, the composite catalytic membrane shows efficient catalytic performance and satisfactory stability in the degradation of organic pollutants based on the Fenton-like reaction mechanism. The proposed strategy for membrane fabrication and the experimental results in this study provide valuable guidance for developing high-flux catalytic membranes with efficient catalytic performances for treatment of industrial and municipal wastewater. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • High-flux efficient catalytic membranes are developed for degradation of organic pollutants. • The membranes are fabricated by blending Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 nanoparticles in PES via LIPS. • Porous microstructures are formed between nanoparticles and membrane matrix during LIPS. • The membranes exhibit high flux, efficient catalytic performance and satisfactory stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A highly sensitive whole cell based electrochemical biosensor was developed for catechol detection in this study. The carE gene of Sphingobium yanoikuyae XLDN2–5 encoding catechol 2,3-dioxygenase (C23O), a key enzyme in the biodegradation of aromatic compound, was cloned and over-expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (E. coli BL21). Compared to Sphingobium yanoikuyae XLDN2–5, the recombinant E. coli BL21 over-expressed C23O exhibited higher catalytic activity towards catechol. Moreover, the whole cells provided a better environment for C23O to maintain its catalytic activity and stability compared with crude enzyme. The distinctive features of the recombinant E. coli BL21 over-expressed C23O made it an ideal bio-recognition element for the fabrication of a microbial biosensor. Additionally, nanoporous gold (NPG) with unique properties of structure and function was selected as a support to immobilized the recombinant E. coli BL21 over-expressed C23O. Based on the synergistic effect of C23O and NPG, the E. coli BL21-C23O/NPG/GCE bioelectrode showed a good linear response for catechol detection ranging from 1 μM to 500 μM with a high sensitivity of 332.24 μA mM−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit of 0.24 μM. Besides, the E. coli BL21-C23O/NPG/GCE bioelectrode exhibited strong anti-interference and good stability. For the detection of catechol in wastewater samples, the concentrations detected by the E. coli BL21-C23O/NPG/GCE bioelectrode were in good agreement with the standard concentrations that added in the wastewater samples, which make the E. coli BL21-C23O/NPG/GCE bioelectrode an ideal tool for reliable catechol detection. Highlights • The carE gene encoding catechol 2,3-dioxygenase (C23O) was cloned and over-expressed in E. coli BL21. • A sensitive microbial biosensor was constructed based on the recombinant E. coli BL21-C23O cells for catechol detection. • The resulting microbial biosensor exhibited good performance for catechol detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MnO 2 -doped 0.99(0.36BiScO 3 -0.64PbTi 1- x Ce x O 3 )-0.01Bi(Zn 0.5 Ti 0.5 )O 3 (BS-PTC-BZT-MnO 2 ) ceramics are fabricated by the solid-state method. Here, it's firstly reported that Ce element can reduce dielectric loss (tan δ ) and suppress the decrease of piezoelectric constant ( d 33 ) simultaneously. Effects of Ce contents on the structure and electrical properties of BS-PTC-BZT-MnO 2 ceramics are studied. The ceramics ( x  = 0.02) with MPB (rhombohedral-tetragonal) possess low dielectric loss (tan δ  = 1.36%, 1 kHz) and high piezoelectric constant ( d 33 = 360 pC/N) simultaneously, which is superior to most reported BS-PT. Besides, excellent comprehensive properties including high Curie temperature ( T C = 422 °C), large dielectric constant ( ɛ r = 1324), and high remnant polarization ( P r = 35.1 µC/cm 2 ) are obtained. Asymmetric S-E and P-E hysteresis loops indicate that defects and oxygen vacancies are induced by multi-valence elements (Ce and Mn), which is the origin for reducing tan δ . In addition, good thermal stability of piezoelectric and dielectric properties is observed. These results indicate that Ce and Mn co-doped BS-PTC-BZT-MnO 2 ceramics can be well applied as power electronic devices under high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is grappling with the ongoing crisis of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a global pandemic that continues to have a detrimental impact on public health and economies worldwide. The virus's relentless mutation has led to more transmissible, immune-evasive strains, thereby escalating the incidence of reinfection. This underscores the urgent need for highly effective and safe countermeasures against SARS-CoV-2 and its evolving variants. In the current context, nanomedicine presents an innovative and promising alternative to mitigate the impacts of this pandemic wave. It does so by harnessing the structural and functional properties at a nanoscale in a straightforward and adaptable manner. This review emphasizes the most recent progress in the development of nanovaccines, nanodecoys, and nanodisinfectants to tackle SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. Notably, the insights gained and strategies implemented in managing the ongoing pandemic may also offer invaluable guidance for the development of potent nanomedicines to combat future pandemics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effect of Zr content on magnetic properties and electrical resistivity of Sm(Co bal Fe 0.09 Cu 0.09 Zr x ) 7.68 ( x  = 0.020, 0.025, 0.030, 0.035) high temperature magnets has been investigated. More Zr content results in the decrease of average cell size and the increase of the density of lamellar structure. In addition, a large number of phase boundaries between lamellar phase and cellular structure have also been formed. The intrinsic coercivity of 550 °C enhances from 3.21 kOe to 6.05 kOe with the increase of Zr content. Furthermore, electrical resistivity shows obviously different variation in different directions with increasing Zr content. At room temperature and 127 °C, the electrical resistivity improves from 68.2 μΩ cm to 91.7 μΩ cm and from 87.1 μΩ cm to 103.3 μΩ cm with increasing x from 0.020 to 0.035 in the direction parallel to c -axis, respectively. However, there is only a slight increase in the electrical resistivity in the direction perpendicular to c -axis. The rise of electrical resistivity in different directions has been discussed. Research results indicate that increasing the density of the lamellar phase is an effective way to increase electrical resistivity in the 2:17-type Sm-Co magnets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic change in brown eggshell color as hens age has been observed, but much uncertainty still exists. We aimed to analyze the depth of eggshell color and quantity of protoporphyrin IX throughout the laying period to explore the reasons for color variation. In this study, 120 Rhode Island Red hens were used, and two eggs were collected from each individual at 26, 34, 42, 50, 60, and 70 wk of age. The eggshell color (L*, a*, b*), egg weight, eggshell dry weight, and protoporphyrin IX quantity in eggshell were measured for individual eggs. Our results showed that the intensity of brown eggshell color weaken as hens aged from 26 to 60 wk of age (L* gradually increased from 61.43 to 68.07), while eggshell lightness recovered slightly at 70 wk (L* = 64.77). The correlation analysis indicated that the content of protoporphyrin IX deposited in the eggshell was an important factor for lightness fading with the ageing process (the average r was 0.66, P < 0.01), while the egg weight had little impact on the eggshell color (the average r was 0.07, P > 0.05). The shade of the eggshell color (L* and a*) at the early laying period (26 or 34 wk) had a low correlation with the other age points (42, 50, 60, and 70 wk). However, high correlations between the shell color at 42 wk of age and subsequent ages (50, 60, and 70 wk) were found, suggesting that the intensity of eggshell color is more stable after egg-laying peaks (such as 42 wk of age). In conclusion, the intensity of brown eggshell color varies greatly among the whole laying cycle and breeders can choose the proper age for eggshell color measurements to ensure the degree of shell color in the late laying period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C-KIT gene mutations result in the constitutive activation of tyrosine kinase activity, and greatly affect the pathogenesis and prognosis of core-binding factor acute myeloid leukemia (CBF-AML). C-KIT mutations are often found as single point mutations. However, the rate of double mutations has recently increased in AML patients. In this study, we detected six cases (18.8%) harboring double C-KIT exon17 mutations in 75 patients with CBF-AML. The clone composition and dynamic evolution were analyzed by sequencing and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Results revealed that these double mutations can be occurred in either the same or different clones. Different clones of double mutations may result in different sensitivity to the treatment of CBF-AML. The clones with N822 mutation responded better to treatment as compared to those with D816 mutation. Moreover, D816 clone was readily transformed into a predominant clone at relapse. Meanwhile, the predominant clones in the same patient may change during the progression of disease. The emerging mutation can originate from a small quantity of clones at diagnosis or newly acquired during the course of disease. Furthermore, patients with double mutations had better overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) than those with single mutation, but the differences did not reach statistical significance (P > 0.05). The ddPCR is an effective method for monitoring clonal evolution in patients with CBF-AML. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ternary 0.99(0.36BiScO 3 -0.64PbTiO 3 )-0.01Bi(M 1 M 2 ) 0.5 O 3 (BS-PT-BM 1 M 2 ) ceramics were prepared by the solid-state reaction method, where M 1 and M 2 respectively stand for bivalent and quadrivalent elements (M 1 =Sn, Pb, Ni, Sr, Ba, Ca, Cu, Mg and Mn, M 2 = Hf, Sn, Zr, Si, Ce and Mn). Effects of different elements on their structure and electrical properties were studied in detail. It was found that the formation of MPB by optimizing the doped elements can enhance electrical properties ( d 33 = 500 pC/N, ɛ r = 2013, tan δ = 0.024 at 100 kHz). Interestingly, different electrical properties can be induced by choosing the doped elements. For example, a high d 33 can be realized by doping M 1 = Sn, Pb or Sr (M 2 = Ti) as well as M 2 = Hf, Sn or Zr (M 1 = Zn), and the dielectric loss can be suppressed by doping Ce or Mn. In addition, large bipolar strain (S = 0.25–0.46%) as well as high remanent polarization ( P r = 34.7–46.4 µC/cm 2 ) can be observed for all doped elements, which were superior to pure BS-PT ( P r = 32 µC/cm 2 and S = 0.18%), and high T C ( T C = 417–443 °C) can be attained in all the ceramics. We believe that the addition of ABO 3 -type compounds with optimum elements can enhance electrical properties of BS-PT ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion sieving is of great importance in a variety of applications, such as water desalination/purification, biomedical engineering and so on. The currently available techniques, based on ion size sieving by constructing membranes with nanochannels and nanopores, are still not able to achieve precise sieving of mono-/multi-valent metal ions. Here, we report on the fabrication of graphene-based membranes by constructing uniform two-dimensional (2D) nanochannels with effective channel heights of ~ 8 Å for precise and efficient sieving of mono-/multi-valent metal ions. Our membranes with uniform 2D nanochannels are built using facilely reduced graphene oxide (FRGO) nanosheets, which are controllably fabricated by avoiding the corrugation of graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets and controlling the content of oxidation groups during the reduction process. We illustrate the ability of precise sieving of mono-/multi-valent metal ions afforded by this technique by fabricating FRGO membranes with uniform 2D nanochannels, and demonstrate the excellent repeatability and long-term stability of FRGO membranes for sieving of mono-/multi-valent metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fabrication of functional nanoparticles with unique ultra-sensitivity to endogenous tumor microenvironment (TME) is of great significance for their improved theranostic performance and easy excretion out of the body, which has not been realized among diverse nano-sized photothermal agents for photothermal therapy (PTT) of tumor. In this work, we report on the synthesis of 2D ultrathin MnO 2 nanosheets for highly efficient PTT against tumor with ultra-sensitivity to endogenous TME. These ultrathin 2D MnO 2 nanosheets show the intriguing characteristic of disintegration and releasing of Mn 2+ in response to the mild acidic condition and elevated reducing microenvironment of TME, which has successfully realized the pH- and reducing-responsive T 1 -weighted magnetic resonance imaging of tumor. Importantly, the high PTT efficiency of 2D MnO 2 nanosheets responsive to exogenous NIR irradiation has been systematically demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo for suppressing the tumor growth. This first report on the exploring of TME-sensitive photothermal agents with concurrent diagnostic and therapeutic (theranostic) functions significantly broadens the biomedical application of 2D functional biomaterials, which also promotes the further potential clinical translations of nano-sized photothermal agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollution caused by sulfide compounds has become a major problem for public health. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore a sensitive, selective, and simple sulfide detection method for environmental monitoring and protection. Here, a novel microbial biosensor was developed using recombinant Escherichia coli BL21 ( E. coli BL21) expressing sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQR) for sulfide detection. As an important enzyme involved in the initial step of sulfide metabolism, SQR oxidizes sulfides to polysulfides and transfers electrons to the electron transport chain. Nanoporous gold (NPG) with its unique properties was selected for recombinant E. coli BL21 cells immobilization, and then glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified by the resulting E. coli /NPG biocomposites to construct an E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode. Due to the catalytic oxidation properties of NPG for sulfide, the electrochemical reaction of the E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode is attributed to the co-catalysis of SQR and NPG. For sulfide detection, the E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode showed a good linear response ranging from 50 μM to 5 mM, with a high sensitivity of 18.35 μA mM −1 cm −2 and a low detection limit of 2.55 μM. The anti-interference ability of the E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode is better than that of enzyme-based inhibitive biosensors. Further, the E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode was successfully applied to the detection of sulfide in wastewater. These unique properties potentially make the E. coli /NPG/GCE bioelectrode an excellent choice for reliable sulfide detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • rGS porous materials are developed for desalination of saline water with solar and electro energy supplies. • rGS materials are featured with both excellent solar-thermal and electro-thermal properties. • Water evaporation fluxes are > 1100 g m-2h−1 under 1 sun and > 3600 g m-2h−1 under 20 V (DC). • Salt rejection is always > 99.95% towards different saline waters in solar-/electro-thermal desalinations. • Portable desalination systems are designed to produce drinking water with solar energy or DC power supply. Desalination of saline water is a key technology to produce safe drinking water. Here, we report a novel type of reduced graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets modified porous functional materials (rGS) with both excellent solar-thermal and electro-thermal properties for efficient, portable, and continuous desalination of saline water. The rGS porous materials are prepared by modifying porous melamine sponges with GO nanosheets, and then reducing GO nanosheets into reduced GO (rGO) nanosheets. With sufficient rGO nanosheets coated on rGS porous materials, water evaporation fluxes of rGS-5 porous materials are > 1100 g m-2h−1 in solar-thermal desalination under 1000 W m−2 and > 3600 g m-2h−1 in electro-thermal desalination under direct voltage of 20 V due to the excellent solar-thermal property and Joule effect of rGS. The salt rejection values are always higher than 99.95% towards different saline waters including hypersaline water, and the salinities of distilled waters are always far lower than the WHO standard for safe drinking water. The strategy and results in this work provide valuable guidance for designing portable desalination systems to produce safe drinking water by simply using solar energy and/or direct-current power supply in certain applications with special needs such as remote regions and disaster situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of boron doping on the microstructure and magnetic properties of Sm(Fe 0.8 Co 0.2) 11 TiB x melt-spun ribbons were investigated. At a quenching speed of 25 m/s, the Ti-rich grain boundary (GB) phase and more percent of SmFe 12 phase was formed in the sample with x = 0.25, which increase the coercivity from 3 kOe to 6 kOe and remanence from 61 emu/g to 75 emu/g. The Ti-rich grain boundary phase show TiFe 2 -type structure, in which the (02–1) plane spacing of the grain boundary phase is half that of the adjacent (020) plane spacing of ThMn 12 phase. Electron holographic analysis showed that the Ti-rich GB phase can reduce the magnetization coupling between the SmFe 12 main phase grains. This served as a guide for the further fabrication of the GB phase in SmFe 12 -based permanent magnetic materials with high magnetic properties. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the most widely used cancer treatments. However, the vigorous biosynthesis of cancer cells plays an important role for RT resistance. Herein, we develop a hafnium-based nanoscale metal-organic frameworks (Hf-nMOFs) loaded with 3-bromopyruvate (3-BrPA) to overcome RT resistance and achieve favorable RT efficacy. The deposition of X-rays is greatly enhanced by Hf-nMOFs to induce stronger damage to DNA in RT. Simultaneously, as an inhibitor of glycolysis, the loaded 3-BrPA can reduce the supply of energy and interfere with the biosynthesis of proteins to decrease the DNA damage repair. As a result, the 3-BrPA@Hf-nMOFs (BHT) will overcome the RT resistance and enhance the curative effect of RT. Up and down-regulated genes as well as the related pathways in cellular metabolism and biosynthesis are well investigated to reveal the radiosensitization mechanism of BHT. In addition, the Hf element endows BHT with CT imaging capability to real-timely monitor the therapeutic process. Hence, the designed strategy of biosynthesis-targeted radiosensitization could decrease the doses of ionizing radiations and provide fresh perspectives on cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a universal model is developed for describing the responsive performances of both positively and negatively responsive smart gating membranes with structural and responsive parameters. The model is derived by assigning the membrane pore size change ratio before and after immobilizing responsive gates and the volume change coefficient as well as the stacking effect coefficient of responsive gates as independent dimensionless variables. The reliability and fitting precision of the proposed model have been validated by the experimental results of positively thermo-responsive and negatively Pb2+-responsive gating performances of smart gating membranes, which are prepared by immobilizing poly(N -isopropylmethacrylamide- co -4-acrylamidobenzo-18-crown-6) (PNMB) microgels in porous poly(ether sulfone) (PES) membranes as functional gates that exhibit both thermo-induced shrinking and Pb2+-induced swelling responsive characteristics. All the experimental data of both positively and negatively responsive gating performances of smart gating membranes fit well with the developed model. The proposed model provides new insights for describing and explaining the responsive gating performances of both positively and negatively responsive smart gating membranes, and offers rational guidelines for designing and fabricating smart gating membranes with desired responsive gating performances by predetermining the structural and responsive parameters of smart gates for various applications. [Display omitted] • A universal model is developed for describing responsive performances of smart gating membranes. • The model is derived by assigning structural and responsive parameters of smart membranes as variables. • Both positively and negatively responsive performances of smart membranes can be priecisely described. • Smart membranes are prepared by immobilizing dual responsive microgels in porous substrates. • Reliability and fitting precision of the model are validated by experimental data of smart membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile and efficient double co-axial microfluidic device has been developed for fabricating polyethersulfone (PES) hollow fiber membranes via phase separation. The co-axial microchannels with easy center alignment consist of a cylindrical tube for bore fluid, a cylindrical tube for dope fluid and a rectangular tube for coagulation fluid. In such a double co-axial microfluidic device, three phase core-annular flows are formed for continuously fabricating hollow fibers via phase separations at the interfaces. The nascent PES hollow fibers can be extruded from the outlet of microfluidic device continuously without clogging. Typical PES hollow fiber membranes have two dense skin layers on both outer and inner surfaces, due to the phase separation at both interfaces between the dope fluid and the bore fluid as well as the coagulation fluid. The effects of fabrication conditions including microfluidic flowrates, PES concentration in dope fluid and operation temperature on the structures of microfluidic-fabricated PES hollow fiber membranes are investigated systematically. Ternary fluid-flow diagrams are created for fabricating PES hollow fiber membranes with different PES concentrations and operation temperatures. The results in this study provide valuable guidance for fabricating hollow fiber membranes with controllable microstructures and dimensions via microfluidic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microreactor technologies have shown great potential in heterogeneous catalysis reactions. Nevertheless, the integration of catalysts inside microreactors often suffer from several challenges such as troublesome procedure, instable immobilization and low catalytic activity thus limiting the wide utilization of microreactors in catalysis. Herein, a facile and efficient strategy, which is assisted with the versatile adhesion and reduction properties of polydopamine coating, has been proposed for simply and stably immobilizing catalysts of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) on the walls of microchannels in glass microreactors. The proposed approach is featured with the advantages of both chemical stability and physical simplicity. The whole fabrication procedure could be easily and quickly conducted under a mild environment. The formation of Ag NPs on the walls of microchannels could be simply tuned by varying the reduction temperature. In a demonstration reaction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol, the microreactors immobilized with Ag NPs on the walls of microchannels show high catalytic activity and satisfactory stability during the continuous reaction for 24 h, which confirms the outstanding stability of the immobilized Ag NPs. The proposed strategy in this study provides a facile route for fabricating metallic nanocatalysts equipped microreactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The proportion and elution difficulty of Hg-containing substances followed HgS(black) > HgS(red) > HgO(red). • The elution was basically completed within 2 min with efficiency of 98.38 %. • Higher concentration, higher temperature and lower pH were conducive to the elution. • The elution followed the first-order two-domain model in which HgO and HgS belonged to the rapid and slow part. Mercury (Hg) pollution in syngas has received increasing attention. The adsorbent can effectively remove Hg from syngas, and the removal of Hg-containing substances before the landfill of spent adsorbent can avoid Hg secondary pollution effectively. H 2 S was the main resource for the generation of stable and insoluble HgS in syngas. In this work, the elution of Hg-containing substances from the spent CeO 2 -MnO 2 /TiO 2 (Ce-Mn/Ti) adsorbent in H 2 S atmosphere by CuCl 2 solution was studied. The optimum temperature for Ce-Mn/Ti to remove Hg0 in H 2 S atmosphere was 160 °C. The Hg-containing substances were HgS (black), HgS (red), and HgO (yellow), in which both the proportion and elution difficulty followed the descending order of HgS(black) > HgS(red) > HgO(yellow). The elution was basically completed within 2 min with excellent efficiency of 98.38 %. Higher concentration, higher temperature, and lower pH were conducive to the elution, and the optimum concentration and temperature were 1.0 mol/L and 45 °C respectively. The elution followed the first-order two-domain model, in which HgO and HgS were the rapid and slow part respectively. The elution not only retained the favorable mesoporous structure, but also enabled the eluted Ce-Mn/Ti adsorbent to have a higher efficiency and a better stability on Hg removal by loading the active component of CuCl 2. This study demonstrated that CuCl 2 could be a good eluent for the elution of Hg-containing species and the reutilization of metal oxide-based adsorbent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SmFe 12 -based permanent magnet materials with ThMn 12 structure have received extensive attention in the exploration and development of new rare-earth-lean permanent magnets. However, the coercivity influence mechanism has not been clearly defined, hindering the development of high coercivity. In this work, the synergistic effect of Sm content and annealing process on phase formation and microstructure evolution has been investigated. The results demonstrate that the SmFe 12 hard magnetic phase can be obtained massively in ingots with x from 0.95 to 1.2, however, α-Fe can be completely eliminated only when x exceeds 1.0. Simultaneously, continuous grain boundary has been proposed by annealing at 1180 °C for 1 h in the Sm 1.1 (Fe 0.8 Co 0.2) 10.5 Ga 0.5 Ti alloy, accompanied by the purification of ThMn 12 -type phase. Elemental distribution analysis demonstrated that Sm and Ga prefer to enter grain boundary during the annealing process, providing the possibility of obtaining continuous non-ferromagnetic grain boundary. However, the distribution of Sm and Ga in the grain boundary is not uniform, and there are some other regions with more Fe and Co, which is difficult to achieve effective demagnetization coupling between grains, resulting in the easy de-magnetization of the grains. TEM results show that nano-sized weak magnetic 1:9 phases are observed and exist around the 1:12 phase, which may be a region prone to demagnetization in an opposing magnetic field. Overall, this work reveals some new and important factors restricting the development of high performance in ThMn 12 -type magnets. • Sm and Ga tend to enter grain boundary during annealing but their distribution in the grain boundary is heterogeneous. • Nanoscale weak magnetic 1:9 phase in the grain epitaxial region may hinder the development of 1:12 sintered magnets. • 1:12 phase formation is sensitive to annealing temperature and time, with the optimum annealing process is 1180 ℃, 1 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The segregation of Cu is crucial for the magnetic properties of 2:17 type SmCo magnets, which is firstly affected by the ordering process during aging treatment. In this research, the ordering process is successfully regulated by doping nano ZrO 2 , which achieves a prolonged ordering process and an increased duration of twin boundaries in 2:17 type SmCo magnets. The continuous migration of twin boundaries in a longer period drives extra Cu to converge towards the cell boundary center, resulting in about 10.52 kOe coercivity only by isothermal aging treatment. The precipitation sequence of the lamellar phase and the cell boundary phase is exchanged. A new understanding of Cu segregation contributes to the development of high performance 2:17 type SmCo magnets. [Display omitted] • The ordering porcess was significantly prolonged with ~17 h in 2:17 type SmCo magnets. • The coercivity with over 1 T was achieved without slow cooling treatment. • The higher efficient of Cu segregation was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The effects and mechanisms of adsorbent composition, syngas component and reaction temperature on Hg0 removal by MOBA were individually elucidated. • The mechanisms, advantages and disadvantages of three regeneration methods for MOBA were systematically summarized. • The prospects of spine AB 2 O 4 adsorbent on Hg0 removal and the elution regeneration method on used MOBA were highlighted. • Further works about the synergistic removal of Hg0 and H 2 S by MOBA in syngas, and Hg0 removal by MOBA in syngas at a higher temperature range were suggested. The injection of adsorbent can effectively remove Hg from syngas, in which metal oxide based adsorbent (MOBA) is a promising adsorbent as their simultaneous adsorption and oxidation properties. This review summarized the influences and mechanisms of adsorbent composition, syngas component, and reaction temperature on Hg0 removal by MOBA in syngas. The adsorption of Hg0 by CeO 2 -based, Fe 2 O 3 -based, CuO-based, and V 2 O 5 -based MOBA belong to physisorption, the adsorption of Hg0 by MnO 2 and Co 3 O 4 belong to chemisorption. The oxidation of Hg0 by MOBA follows Mars-Maessen mechanism. The Hg0 removal capacity of MOBA with different composition follows the descending sequence of V 2 O 5 > MnO 2 > Co 3 O 4 > Fe 2 O 3 > CuO(CeO 2). H 2 S and HCl are beneficial to Hg0 removal by MOBA, but CO, H 2 , and H 2 O are harmful to Hg0 removal by MOBA. The influence of H 2 S, HCl, and CO are affected by their concentration. Both HCl and H 2 S can mitigate the inhibition of CO and H 2 on Hg0 removal by MOBA. The increase of temperature can both promote and inhibit Hg0 removal by MOBA. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of three main regeneration methods of thermal regeneration, non-thermal plasma regeneration, and elution regeneration were respectively summarized, especially the prominent advantages of elution regeneration method were emphasized. Finally, further works about the development of spine MOBA, the synergistic removal of Hg0 and H 2 S by MOBA, study at higher temperature range, and the application of elution regeneration method were summarized to provide some references for the application of MOBA on Hg0 removal in syngas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aromatic compounds, such as phenols and aromatic amines, are environmental contaminants suspected of posing human health risks. For phenols and aromatic amines reliable detection, promoting selectivity and sensitivity for phenols and aromatic amines is crucial in biosensor design. Here, a biosensor combined the advantages of both enzymatic and nonenzymatic electrochemical sensors is constructed. Nanoporous gold (NPG) is selected as an enzyme carrier for horseradish peroxidase (HRP) biosensor fabrication due to its three-dimension structure with unique properties. It is firstly discovered that NPG can achieve selective oxidation for phenols and aromatic amines. Thus, the electrochemical reaction on the resulting HRP/NPG/GCE bioelectrode is attributed to the co-catalysis of HRP and NPG. For the detection of catechol (Cat), 4-aminophenol ( p -AP), o -phenylenediamine ( o -PD), and p -phenylenediamine ( p -PD), linear responses are observed in large concentration ranges with high sensitivities and low detection limits. Further, the HRP/NPG/GCE bioelectrode presents strong reproducibility, specificity, selectivity and anti-interference capability in detecting the mixture of phenols and aromatic amines along with a long shelf-life, and the real sea water sample analysis was achieved. These unique properties make the HRP/NPG/GCE bioelectrode an excellent choice for phenols and aromatic amines reliable detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To investigate the role of readout-segmented echo-planar imaging using parallel imaging and a two-dimensional (2D) navigator (RESOLVE) in the evaluation of sinonasal lesions and to qualitatively and quantitatively compare the image qualities of single-shot echo-planar imaging (SS-EPI) and RESOLVE. Materials and methods Both sinonasal SS-EPI and RESOLVE images were acquired from 32 patients on a 3-T MR scanner. Image quality, lesion conspicuity and the distortions of the SS-EPI and RESOLVE images were qualitatively evaluated by two radiologists. Distortion was also quantitatively evaluated by comparing the distances between the same anatomic points on TSE-T1WI, TSE-T2WI, SS-EPI and RESOLVE images. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) of the two DWIs were compared. Results The comparisons of the qualitative scores indicated that RESOLVE significantly improved the image quality and lesion conspicuity and reduced the distortion of the sinonasal diseases. The orbit, skull base, temporal bone and upper neck were also better displayed on RESOLVE. Quantitative evaluations revealed that RESOLVE greatly reduced but did not completely remove the distortion. The ADC values of the sinonasal lesions on RESOLVE were lower than those on SS-EPI, whereas no differences were found in the brainstem. The SNR of RESOLVE was lower than that of SS-EPI. There were no differences in the CNRs of the two diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) techniques. Conclusion RESOLVE significantly improved the image quality for evaluations of sinonasal lesions by reducing the susceptibility artifacts, distortion and blurring compared with SS-EPI. RESOVLE offers more accurate ADC values of sinonasal lesions than SS-EPI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffusional permeability characteristics of K + -responsive membranes with grafted poly( N -isopropylacrylamide- co -acryloylamidobenzo-15-crown-5) (poly(NIPAM- co -AAB 15 C 5 )) chains in membrane pores are investigated systematically. Upon specifically recognizing K + , the grafted membrane gates dramatically switch from swollen and hydrophilic state to shrunken and hydrophobic state. The K + -responsive solute diffusion is controlled not only by the K + -triggered isothermal change of membrane pores from “closed” to “open” state but also heavily by the hydrophilic/hydrophobic switching of grafted gates. For K + -responsive diffusional permeability characteristics of the positively K + -responsive membranes, there presents a threshold value of the molecule size, which divides the solutes being promoted or restricted to diffuse across the grafted membrane upon presence of K + in environment. With size smaller than the threshold value, the solutes are promoted to diffuse across the grafted gating membrane in the K + solution compared with that in water; when the solute size is larger than the threshold value, the diffusion of solutes across the membrane is resisted in K + solution. The longer and the denser the grafted chains, the easier the membrane pores being choked with the grafted copolymer chains in the shrunken state. As a result, the larger the grafting yield of poly(NIPAM- co -AAB 15 C 5 ), the smaller the threshold value of the molecule size. The results in this study are valuable for rationally designing K + -responsive controlled release systems for biomedical purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Pavement biomass materials are divided into bio-oil, bio-fiber, bio-filler. • Pavement biomass materials from source to application were reviewed. • Composite modification can increase the content and utilization of bio-oil. • The latest performance research results of road biomass materials were compared. T o cope with the global climate crisis and assist in achieving the carbon neutrality, the use of biomass materials to fully or partially replace petroleum-based products and unrenewable resources is expected to become a widespread solution. Based on the analysis of the existing literature, this paper firstly classified biomass materials with potential application prospects in pavement engineering according to their application and summarized their respective preparation methods and characteristics. The pavement performance of asphalt mixtures with biomass materials was analyzed and summarized, and the economic and environmental benefits of bio-asphalt binder were evaluated. The analysis shows that pavement biomass materials with potential for practical application can be divided into three categories: bio-oil, bio-fiber, and bio-filler. Adding bio-oil to modify or extend the virgin asphalt binder can mostly improve the low temperature performance of asphalt binder. Adding styrene-butadienestyrene (SBS) or other preferable bio-components for composite modification will have a further improved effect. Most of the asphalt mixtures prepared by using bio-oil modified asphalt binders have improved the low temperature crack resistance and fatigue resistance of asphalt mixtures, but the high temperature stability and moisture resistance may decrease. As a rejuvenator, most bio-oils can restore the high and low temperature performance of aged asphalt and recycled asphalt mixture, and improve fatigue resistance. Adding bio-fiber could significantly improve the high temperature stability, low temperature crack resistance and moisture resistance of asphalt mixtures. Biochar as a bio-filler can slow down the asphalt aging process and some other bio-fillers can improve the high temperature stability and fatigue resistance of asphalt binders. Through calculation, it is found that the cost performance of bio-asphalt has the ability to surpass conventional asphalt and has economic benefits. The use of biomass materials for pavements not only reduces pollutants, but also reduces the dependence on petroleum-based products. It has significant environmental benefits and development potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical slurry jet micro-machining (ESJM) is a new non-conventional process that couples abrasive slurry jet machining (ASJM) and electrochemical jet machining (ECJM) concurrently. A micro-jet of abrasive particles and electrolytic solution is made to impinge on the target while applying a DC potential between the jet nozzle and the workpiece. ESJM can be used to remove material that is difficult to machine through a combination of erosion, corrosion and synergistic effects. This study focuses on ESJM of tungsten carbide (WC) using a pH-neutral NaCl electrolyte rather than an alkaline solution which is more commonly used in the electrochemical processing of WC. For the studied process parameters, it was shown that the erosion due to ASJM alone was not able to erode the WC, and that the corrosion under ECJM was slow and produced unacceptably wide channels. The combined ESJM process however, was found to involve erosion of the developed oxide layer and subsequent exposure of un-corroded WC, leading to a much higher machining current density, corrosion rate, and machining localization than using ECJM alone. It was also found that the total abrasive kinetic energy, working voltage and solution concentration strongly affected the machining current density, material removal rate and aspect ratio (depth to width ratio). The results indicate that ESJM has a high potential to machine difficult-to-cut metals efficiently and economically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to test the effects of supplemental potentiated zinc oxide (ZnO) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, relative organ weight, breast muscle quality, zinc (Zn) status, intestinal microbial shedding, and excreta microbial shedding in broilers. A total of 680 1-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were randomly divided into 4 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design, including basal diets supplemented 0, 50, 75, or 100 mg/kg Zn from potentiated ZnO. During days 1–7, 8–21, and 1–35, increasing dietary potentiated ZnO resulted in increased (linear, P < 0.05) body weight gain. Throughout the experiment, there was a significant linear decrease (P < 0.05) in feed conversion ratio with increasing levels of dietary potentiated ZnO supplementation. The dry matter retention, concentrations of Zn in serum and liver increased (P < 0.05) linearly with increasing potentiated ZnO dose. There were significant linear increases (P < 0.05) in relative weigh to body weight, lightness, and water-holding capacity of breast muscle in response to increasing potentiated ZnO supplementation. A significant linear increase in lactic acid bacteria counts and a significant linear decrease in coliform bacteria numbers in ileal and cecal digesta were observed due to increasing dietary potentiated ZnO supplementation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these results indicated that dietary supplementation with increasing potentiated ZnO linearly enhanced growth performance and dry matter retention, improved the relative breast muscle weight, lightness and water-holding capacity of breast muscle, increased excreta lactic acid bacteria, and decreased excreta coliform bacteria numbers in broilers. • Potentiated ZnO enhanced growth performance and dry matter retention of broilers. • The relative weight of breast muscle was increased by potentiated ZnO. • Dietary potentiated ZnO supplementation decreased excreta ammonia emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional self-assembled pine sawdust modified graphene aerogel (PPG) was prepared in a simple and low-cost manner. This preparation successfully utilized forestry waste and enabled a one-step synthesis of PPG for the adsorption of chloroform, toluene, and gasoline in simulated seawater. The introduction of the sawdust yielded significant improvement in the mechanical properties, adsorption capacity, and hydrophobicity of the graphene aerogel. A water contact angle of 153.9° and adsorption capacities of 44–63 g/g were obtained for chloroform, toluene, and gasoline, which were better than those of the graphene aerogel (PG) without the addition of pine sawdust. PPG can be regenerated by repeated heat treatment or combustion. The adsorption capacity of PPG remained at ~90% and ~70% of the initial value after 2 and 10 cycles, respectively. With good adsorption selectivity, high adsorption capacity, thermal stability, and good recoverability, PPG is expected to be a potential candidate material in the field of seawater purification. [Display omitted] • Three-dimensional (3D) porous pine sawdust modified graphene aerogels (PPG) was fabricated by one-step hydrothermal treatment. • The PPG was compressive, ultralight and fire-resistant with hydrophobic skeletons. • The PPG exhibits efficient selectivity, high capacity and good recyclability for oils and organic solvents. • PPG shows the huge potential in the dynamic oil/water separation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Composite SiO x /polymer films have been prepared on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates by radio frequency (RF) reactive magnetron co-sputtering, from which two balanced magnetrons are equipped with silica and dicyclopentadiene dioxide cured with maleic anhydride (DCPD/MA) targets. Morphology and composition of the deposited composite films have been analyzed by means of AFM, FTIR, and XPS. The influences of preparation procedure parameters, primarily including RF power densities and the ratio of RF powers delivered to the two targets, on the obtained films properties such as surface roughness, water vapor/oxygen transmission rate and flexibility have been investigated. As , the ratio of RF powers delivered to the individual target changed from 0.13 to 7.5, the roughness of films decreases from 2.793 nm down to 0.9 nm and the numbers of cracks produced in the films after folding are reduced dramatically. At the ratio of RF power of 3, higher RF power densities and lower work pressure have better performance in preventing the permeation of water vapor and oxygen. The minimum transmission rates of water vapor and oxygen are 0.26 g/m2/24 h atm and 0.38 cc/m2/day atm, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a near-field ellipsometry method for nano-scale thin film characterization. The method is based on a reflection configuration of near-field optical detection. In the method, a new set of ellipsometry equations is established by taking into consideration the near-field sample–probe interaction and the topography of the thin film. Experimental and simulation results have shown that the proposed near-field ellipsometry is able to attain precise thin film characterization with nano-scale lateral resolution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Carbon nanotubes and graphene are both low-dimensional sp2 carbon nanomaterials exhibiting many unique physical and chemical properties that are interesting in a wide range of areas including nanomedicine. Since 2004, carbon nanotubes have been extensively explored as drug delivery carriers for the intracellular transport of chemotherapy drugs, proteins, and genes. In vivo cancer treatment with carbon nanotubes has been demonstrated in animal experiments by several different groups. Recently, graphene, another allotrope of carbon, has also shown promise in various biomedical applications. In this article, we will highlight recent research on these two categories of closely related carbon nanomaterials for applications in drug delivery and cancer therapy, and discuss the opportunities and challenges in this rapidly growing field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]