Search

[Display omitted] • The PM generated by MSW gasification and pyrolysis exhibited a trimodal distribution. • Higher temperatures promote hydrocarbon gas products conversion to PAHs and soot. • Soot showed high specific surface area and well-developed pore structure. • The soot and ultrafine particle formation pathway and mechanism were revealed. This research investigates the formation mechanism of soot and particulate matter during the pyrolysis and gasification of waste derived from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in a laboratory scale drop tube furnace. Compared with CO 2 gasification atmosphere, more ultrafine particles (PM 0.2 , aerodynamic diameter less than 0.2 μm) were generated in N 2 atmosphere at 1200℃, which were mainly composed of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), graphitic carbonaceous soot and volatile alkali salts. High reaction temperatures promote the formation of hydrocarbon gaseous products and their conversion to PAHs, which ultimately leads to the formation of soot particles. The soot particles generated by waste derived from MSW pyrolysis and gasification both have high specific surface area and well-developed pore structure. Compared with pyrolysis, the soot generated by gasification of waste derived from MSW had smaller size and higher proportion of inorganic components. The higher pyrolysis temperature led to the collapse of the mesoporous structure of submicron particles, resulting in a decrease in total pore volume and an increase in specific surface area. Innovatively, this research provides an explanation for the effect of reaction temperature/ CO 2 on the formation pathways and physicochemical properties of soot and fine particulate matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel binary organic phosphonic acid was firstly integrated into nanofiltration membrane. • The rejection of membrane incorporated with AA was improved, while the permeability exhibited no decline. • Mono-/divalent anion selective separation factor surpass 500 even in high saline solution up to 20 g/L. • The membrane exhibit excellent chlorine resistance and anti-fouling performance. Nanofiltration membrane (NF) have become increasingly crucial in ion separation. However, traditional polyamide (PA) NF suffers from poor selectivity for mono-/divalent anions due to weak charges and structure defects. Thus, a novel binary organic phosphonic acid, alendronic acid (AA), was firstly used as an aqueous co-monomer via interfacial polymerization (IP) to create negatively charged nanofiltration membranes with both higher charge density and pore size homogeneity for the separation of mono-/divalent anions. Both structure characterization and performance tests demonstrated the successful introduction of AA in the separation layer. Compared with pristine membrane, the NaCl/Na 2 SO 4 selectivity of membrane incorporated with AA was four times improved, while the permeability exhibited no decline. Simultaneously, the separation efficiency of Cl-/SO 4 2- was tested in NaCl/Na 2 SO 4 binary mixed solutions with varying total concentrations and different mass ratios, and the separation factor consistently exceeded 500 across a concentration range of 1 g/L to 20 g/L. Moreover, the AA-integrated membrane exhibited excellent chlorine resistance after 20000 ppm·h of chlorine treatment, which is promising for high efficiency separation of mono-/divalent anions in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The performance and mechanism of CO 2 capture by amine blended solvents were reviewed. • The technology of simultaneous removal of CO 2 /NOx/SO 2 by ammonia was discussed. • The industrial challenges during CO 2 capture were summarized. • The specific directions have been proposed for the future development. Absorption/regeneration systems based on chemical solutions are considered a more appropriate option for post-combustion CO 2 capture, with amine solvents being the most commonly utilized. First, this paper provides a systematic review of the mechanisms and performance of CO 2 capture by blended solvents of amine–amine, amine-organic solutions, amine-inorganic solutions, and amine-ionic liquids. Furthermore, some process modifications that can reduce energy consumption and amine degradation during CO 2 capture are discussed. As a promising and challenging absorbent, aqueous ammonia shows potential for simultaneous removal of CO 2 /NOx/SO 2 , producing valuable byproducts like ammonium sulphate and ammonium nitrate fertilizers. Therefore, the current development of ammonia scrubbing techniques for CO 2 capture and simultaneous removal of CO 2 /NOx/SO 2 is subsequently reviewed in terms of reaction mechanisms, process modifications, and application challenges. Finally, specific directions have been proposed for the future development of amine and aqueous ammonia scrubbing techniques, which are expected to provide meaningful guidance for CO 2 capture by chemical absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a kind of versatile, excellent catalyst carriers, mesoporous silicas (mSiO 2) have been widely applied for preparing various supported catalysts with ideal catalytic properties due to their uniform and regular channels, adjustable medium pore size, big surface area, controllable wall composition, high hydrothermal stability, easy functional modification and good accessibility of larger reactant molecules. mSiO 2 not only enhances the dispersity of the active phase and generates more active sites for superior catalytic activity but also improves resulted selectivity and cyclic lifespan for enhanced interaction. And high adsorption capacity of mSiO 2 also increases the reactant molecule enrichment. In addition, mesoporous feature of the mSiO 2 pore wall can ensure diffusion of the substrate molecules and prevent leaching of active components. Thus, related investigation and application have been rapidly growing in the past decades. In this review, the development of mesoporous silica based catalysts on preparation, modification, pore size tune and energy-related applications, especially in hydrogenation reaction, esterification reaction, hydrogen production by alkane dry reforming and alcohol steam reforming and photocatalytic water splitting, is introduced in detail and the design ideas, preparation strategies and corresponding mechanism of different composite catalysts are discussed. • Recent progress on mesoporous silica based catalysts are reviewed. • Design ideas and preparation strategies of mSiO 2 supported catalysts for energy-related reactions were evaluated. • More or new active phases on surface, in pore or skeleton caused by modification. • Universal support suitable for different catalysts toward various catalytic reactions, especially energy-related reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] With the rapid development of wearable electronics, safety hazards and operational stability have drawn widespread attention in recent years. Biopolymers with low cost, eco‐friendly and biocompatibility are competitive candidates to replace traditional petroleum‐based materials in constructing gel polymer electrolytes. Biopolymer-based gel electrolytes (BGPEs) have exhibited broad application prospects through suitable structural designs and functionalization in flexible and smart electrochemical energy storage devices. This review summarized the recent advances of BGPEs with characteristic physicochemical properties and smart functionalities for application in electrochemical energy storage devices. The crosslinking methods and performance validation of BGPEs are also comprehensively reviewed and analyzed. Significantly, the functionalized BGPEs with self‐healing, stretchability, and thermotolerant abilities are emphasized. Finally, the remaining challenges and future directions of BGPEs for application in advanced electrochemical energy storage devices are outlined to provide guidance for their further development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Three generations of tungsten minerals have been identified in the Hongling tungsten deposit. • Fluid-induced dissolution–reprecipitation processes are responsible for the formation of tungsten minerals. • Intensive hydrothermal processes are critical to the mineralization of tungsten in magmatic-hydrothermal systems. Tungsten is a critical metal that is predominantly found in magmatic-hydrothermal W-Sn deposits. However, the behavior and controlling factors of tungsten in highly evolved granitic systems are not yet well-known. In this study, we examined the integrated mineral textures and geochemistry of wolframite and scheelite from the Hongling tungsten deposit in the word-class Nanling W-Sn metallogenic belt, South China. Our results reveal that wolframite and scheelite from the muscovite granite of the highly evolved Reshui granite pluton can be classified into three generations formed through a process of coupled dissolution-reprecipitation. Wolframite with altered relict textures was formed during the early magmatic stage, while the two generations of scheelite (Sch-I and Sch-II) were formed during the magmatic-hydrothermal transitional stage. The formation of Sch-I, which exhibits a notable positive Eu anomaly, required the participation of external Ca-rich reduced fluids within the magmatic exsolved fluids from the highly evolved peraluminous pluton. The porous Sch-II occurs as marginal overgrowth or fracture-filling textures and exhibits a similar negative Eu anomaly as the dissolved wolframite. These three generations of tungsten minerals exhibit distinguishable REE contents and distribution patterns, with increasing LREE and decreasing HREE trends. The fluctuation of oxygen fugacity and the compositional evolution of tungsten minerals from wolframite through Sch-I to Sch-II indicate the involvement of external Ca-rich reduced fluids within the magmatic exsolved fluids from the highly evolved peraluminous pluton. The coupled dissolution of wolframite and the reprecipitation of scheelite were likely induced by intensive fluid-rock interactions, which are critical for the remobilization and enrichment of tungsten in magmatic-hydrothermal deposits. We inferred that such fluid-induced dissolution-reprecipitation of tungsten minerals provides new insights into the formation of the world-class Nanling W-Sn metallogenic belt in South China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The corrosivity of PM 1 to 304 stainless steels at 600 °C is 3 ∼ 5 times that of PM 10+. • Addition 5% kaolin reduce the corrosivity of PM to 304 stainless steels by 12%. • The coexistence of alkali chlorides and sulfates can promote the corrosion reaction. • The corrosion mechanism of PM generated by MSW combustion is revealed. The high temperature corrosion behavior and corrosion mitigation of PM with different sizes generated by MSW combustion were studied. The experiment result showed that the corrosion rate of 304 stainless steel increases significantly as the PM size decreases. The corrosive ability of PM 1 on 304 stainless steel was about 3–5 times higher than that of PM 10+ at 600 °C. Kaolin can greatly restrain the corrosiveness of PM. After 5% of kaolin was added, the corrosion rate of the PM generated by MSW combustion on 304 stainless steel was reduced by 12%. Calculating the composition of the particles after the formation of a stable slagging layer and ash deposition layer on the heating surface, the corrosion control efficiency improved to 71%. High-temperature corrosion process of PM was dominated by NaCl, KCl, CaCl 2 , Na 2 SO 4 and K 2 SO 4 , the corrosion of alkali and alkaline earth chloride was generally stronger than that of sulfate at 600 °C. This study confirms that the addition of kaolin can effectively mitigate high-temperature corrosion in the superheater tubes of waste incineration furnaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among a large variety of energy storage technologies, supercapacitors possess special advantages such as rapid charge/discharge, high power density, safety, and environmental friendliness to meet the requirement of specific applications. The common electrode materials of supercapacitors, including porous carbon, conductive polymers, and metal oxides/hydroxides, have their own benefits and drawbacks in energy density and stability. Owing to the big surface area and controllable porosity, the metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been explored as important candidates for supercapacitor applications. This mini-review focuses on the recent advances of MOF-based materials including pristine MOFs, MOFs composite materials, and MOF-derived materials in the development of long cycling life supercapacitors. The devices discussed here mean those with capacitive retention rates of more than 90% after 10,000 cycles and high energy density. In addition, we also describe the fundamental knowledge of supercapacitors, highlight the stabilization mechanism of MOFs, and propose the strategies to enhance the stability of MOF-based supercapacitor electrodes. • The fundamental knowledge of supercapacitor is illustrated. • The fundamental mechanisms of MOFs stabilization are emphasized. • Recent advances of MOF-based long cycling stability supercapacitors are reviewed. • The strategies to enhance the stability of MOF-based supercapacitors are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dihydroxyl A 2 B triaryl corroles and their gallium and phosphorus complexes were synthesized. • 10-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,15-bis(pentafluorophenyl)corrole phosphorus(V) (1-P) exhibited high singlet oxygen quantum yield. • 1-P exhibited excellent photodynamic activity against MDA-MB-231 and A549 cells. • 1-P photodynamic therapy arrested MDA-MB-231 cells in the sub-G1 phase. • 1-P induced apoptosis by increasing intracellular ROS under illumination at 620–625 nm. Two new dihydroxyl A 2 B triaryl corroles 10-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,15-bis(pentafluorophenyl)corrole (1) and 10-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,15-bis(pentafluorophenyl)corrole (2) and their gallium(III) and phosphorus(V) complexes (1-Ga, 2-Ga, 1-P and 2-P) were synthesized and investigated as photodynamic antitumor agents. All synthesized corrole derivatives could generate singlet oxygen smoothly under illumination at 620–625 nm and showed remarkable in vitro photodynamic antitumor activity. Excited, phosphorus(V) corrole 1-P even exhibited better phototoxicity towards A549 and MDA-MB-231 tumor cell line (IC 50 , 0.08 and 0.12 µM) than clinical drug Foscan® (IC 50 , 0.27 µM). The laser confocal microscopy results showed that the cellular absorbed 1-P was located in the cytoplasm. Under illumination, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) could be detected, which would triger the destruction of the mitochondrial membrane potential and finally lead to apoptosis. Furthermore, the 1-P photodynamic treatment would cause the cancer cells arrested at sub-G1 stage. 10-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,15-bis(pentafluorophenyl)corrole phosphorus(V) (1-P) exhibited remarkable in vitro photodynamic antitumor activity under illumination of red light at 620–625 nm. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Triaxial asphalt concrete data are analyzed using the PPR method. • A deviatoric stress / volumetric strain PPR model is used to determine the stress–strain relationship. • A new solution is provided for nonlinear data hypothesis modeling of asphalt concrete. The conventional principal structural theory modeling is constrained by the underlying assumptions that make the established constitutional model incapable of accurately describing the stress–strain relationship of asphalt concrete. Subsequently, in this study, the traditional modeling idea was changed and the projection pursuit regression (PPR) method was used to analyze triaxial test data obtained from asphalt concrete. The PPR models utilized to calculate deviatoric stress and volumetric strain were developed and the validity and applicability of the PPR model and this method were verified. The results show that the modeling method avoids the problem of inconsistency between a priori model assumptions and objective reality. Asphalt concrete has complex strain softening, strain hardening, shear shrinkage, and shear expansion characteristics. The model employed to calculate deviatoric stress and volumetric strain based on PPR method is superior to the E–B and "Nanshui" models in its capacity to reflect the characteristics of strain softening and shear deformation. The results calculated using the PPR model can accurately describe the stress–strain relationship of asphalt concrete. Studying the stress–strain relationship of asphalt concrete from the perspective of the examination of data breaks through the constraints of traditional modeling ideas, which has certain theoretical significance. The research results can provide a new solution for non-hypothesis modeling of nonlinear data and accurately describing the stress–strain relationship of asphalt concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur isotopes of the primary carbonatite in the Maoniuping REE deposit fingerprint the alkaline parental magma derived from the metasomatized lithospheric mantle, and remarkable shifts could be induced by the subsequent magmatic-hydrothermal evolution processes, in particular the temperature cooling, f O 2 fluctuations and SO 2 degassing. [Display omitted] • Three stages of barite and galena in the Maoniuping REE deposit were identified. • The 34S-enriched crustal materials control the initial REE enrichment in mantle. • The cooling/crystal fractionation, increasing f O 2 , and SO 2 degassing are crucial factors for REE mineralization. Sulfur is an indispensable volatile component, which generally occurs as both sulfides and sulfates in global carbonatite-hosted REE deposits. In this study, we present mineral chemistry and sulfur isotopes of the associated sulfides and sulfates from carbonatite of different settings in the giant Maoniuping REE deposit, SW China, to decipher the magmatic-hydrothermal ore-forming processes. The early-stage carbonatite (stage-I) is barely REE mineralized, with sulfide-dominated sulfur species and melt inclusions in barite. The middle-stage carbonatite (stage-II) is weakly mineralized, with both sulfides and sulfates and barite with melt-fluid inclusions. The late-stage carbonatite (stage-III) is intensively REE mineralized, with sulfate-dominated sulfur species and fluid inclusions in barite. Barite from the early- to late-stage carbonatites show a progressively 34S-enriched signature (δ34S = +1.93‰ to +8.10‰), whereas, galena has an increasing 32S-enriched trend (δ34S = −3.54‰ to −16.73‰). The estimated bulk δ34S values show an increasing from +0.31 ‰ to +1.06 ‰, and then decrease to −0.08 ‰, from the early- to late-stage carbonatites. Principally, these sulfur isotopic shifts may be controlled by the temperature dependence of the sulfur isotope fractionation between crystallizing sulfides/sulfates and magma, but it is dominated by the increasing oxidation state and intensively SO 2 degassing of the residual magma in later stages. Mass-balance calculation indicates that more than 45% of gaseous sulfur has been degassed, with about 20 % of gaseous sulfur remaining in the late hydrothermal system. Such post-magmatic SO 2 degassing and high SO 4 2- activity may be the crucial controlling factors leading to the instability of REE complexes and REE precipitation and mineralization from the REE-bearing hydrous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we embedded a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor into a bolt and experimentally examined whether the wavelength in the FBG changes in response to small elongations of the bolt caused by an acting torque. The FBG sensor was fabricated and embedded in the bolt at different depths and positions to investigate whether these factors directly affect the sensitivity. M20 bolts were used in this study. The greatest sensitivity (0.00298 nm/N-m, R2 = 0.9984) was obtained from the bolt in which the FBG sensor was embedded 7.0 mm from the center of a completely penetrated bolt. The findings suggest that the deeper the embedding depth of the sensor and the closer its position to the bolt surface, the higher the sensitivity. The FBG sensor is suitable for the measurement and long-term monitoring and control of bolt torque. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes the synthesis of new 2′-fluoro-2′- C -methyl 8-azanebularine nucleoside derivatives with moderate to good in vitro anti-HBV activity. 2g can efficiently inhibit the wild-type and lamivudine-resistant HBV DNA replication. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a global health problem requiring more efficient and better tolerated anti-HBV agent. In this paper, a series of novel 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro-2′- C -methyl-β- d -arabinofuranosyl 8-azanebularine analogues (1 and 2a) and N4 -substituted 8-azaadenosine derivatives (2b-g) were designed, synthesized and screened for in vitro anti-HBV activity. Two concise and practical synthetic routes were developed toward the structural motif construction of 2′-deoxy-2′-fluoro-2′- C -methyl-β- d -arabinofuranosyl 8-azainosine from the ribonolactone 3 under mild conditions. The in vitro anti-HBV screening results showed that these 8-azanebularine analogues had a significant inhibitory effect on the expression of HBV antigens and HBV DNA at a concentration of 20 μM. Among them, halogen-substituted 8-azaadenosine derivative 2g displayed activities comparable to that of 3TC. In particular, 2g retained excellent activity against lamivudine-resistant HBV mutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) is the best-studied enzyme catalyzing the synthesis of the Ca2+ messenger cyclic ADP-ribose. It is a single-pass transmembrane protein, but possesses dual orientations. We have documented the natural existence of type III CD38 in cells and shown that it is regulated by a cytosolic activator, calcium- and integrin-binding 1 (CIB1). However, how type III CD38 can be folded correctly in the reductive cytosol has not been addressed. Using the yeast twohybrid technique with CD38's catalytic domain (sCD38) as bait, here we identified a chaperone, Hsp70-interacting protein (Hip), that specifically interacts with both the type III CD38 and sCD38. Immunoprecipitation coupled with MS identified a chaperone complex associated specifically with sCD38. Pharmacological and siRNA-mediated knockdown of Hsp90 chaperones decreased the expression levels of both sCD38 and type III CD38, suggesting that these chaperones facilitate their folding. Moreover, knockdown of Hsc70 or DNAJA2 increased the levels of both CD38 types, consistent with the roles of these proteins in mediating CD38 degradation. Notably, Hip knockdown decreased type III CD38 substantially, but only marginally affected sCD38, indicating that Hip was selective for the former. More remarkably, DNAJA1 knockdown decreased sCD38 but increased type III CD38 levels. Mechanistically, we show that Hsc70 mediates lysosomal degradation of type III CD38, requiring the lysosomal receptor Lamp2A and the C19-motif in the C terminus of CD38. Our results indicate that folding and degradation of type III CD38 is effectively controlled in cells, providing further strong support of its physiological relevance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper, a 600 MWe Babcock & Wilcox boiler is selected as the research object. Numerical simulation and field experiments have been applied to this study under original and new combustion systems. The new approach mainly involves changing the operation mode of swirl burner, rearranging secondary air, and employing separated over-fire air. Numerical results showed that NO x emissions and the unburned combustible in flue dust decrease with the arrangement of the swirl burner changing from co-rotating mode to counter-rotating one. Consequently, counter-rotating mode of adjacent burners was chosen as the optimized arrangement. The introduction of separated over-fire air resulted in a remarkably reduction of the NO x emissions, which reduced from 1085 mg/m3 to 547 mg/m3. With increase of the distance between separated over-fire air and arch from 0.5 m to 3.0 m, NO x emissions changed slightly and the unburned combustible in flue dust were not greatly affected. When the distance continued increase to 6.0 m, NOx generation was suppressed and boiler efficiency declined. Considering the economic efficiency and NOx emissions reduction, the optimal sofa position is 3.0 m above the arch. In situ measurement results are consistent with the modelling predictions This work provides a feasible and economic approach for Babcock & Wilcox down-fired boilers to achieve high efficiency and low pollutant emissions. Highlights • Study the effects of burner rearrangement on low-nitrogen combustion. • Accurate calculate carbon content in fly ash by using CBK model. • Optimize the combustion system based on numerical simulations. • NOx at furnace exit decrease from 1085 mg/m3 to 547 mg/m3 by introduce SOFA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract HpaA is considered to be an effective protective antigen for vaccination against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Oral immunization with HpaA significantly decreases bacterial colonization in H. pylori infected mice. In this study, we investigated whether subcutaneous or intranasal immunization with HpaA could protect against H. pylori infection. Mice immunized subcutaneously with HpaA in Complete Freund's adjuvant, but not mice intranasally immunized with HpaA in CpG adjuvant acquired protection against H. pylori infection. However, intranasal immunization with immunodominant epitope peptides in CpG adjuvant protected mice against H. pylori infection, and immunodominant epitope peptides stimulated stronger Th1 responses and mediated more robust protection against H. pylori infection than subdominant ones. Our results suggest that the length of a candidate antigen is critical for particular vaccination routes, and that immunodominant epitope peptides are promising candidates for protection against H. pylori infection through nasal vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported two types of tunable white LEDs (WLEDs) based on high quality the single emissive InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) and the dual emissive Ag:InP/ZnS QDs via myristic acid (MA) passivation and Ag doping. The WLEDs with three color InP/ZnS QDs could realize color rendering indices (CRIs) of 97–98, color quality scales (CQSs) of 94–98, and limited luminous efficacies (LLEs) of 238–246 lm/W at correlated color temperatures (CCTs) of 2700 K to 6500 K, and the WLEDs with dual emissive Ag:InP/ZnS and red emissive InP/ZnS QDs could realize CRIs of 90–93, CQSs of 90–93, and LLEs of 223–242 lm/W at CCTs of 2700 K to 4000 K. Finally, their luminous efficacies were estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) is a key control point of energy metabolism and is subject to regulation by multiple mechanisms, including posttranslational phosphorylation by pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK). Pharmacological modulation of PDC activity could provide a new treatment for diabetic cardiomyopathy, as dysregulated substrate selection is concomitant with decreased heart function. Dichloroacetate (DCA), a classic PDK inhibitor, has been used to treat diabetic cardiomyopathy, but the lack of specificity and side effects of DCA indicate a more specific inhibitor of PDK is needed. This study was designed to determine the effects of a novel and highly selective PDK inhibitor, 2((2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)sulfonyl) isoindoline-4,6-diol (designated PS10), on pyruvate oxidation in diet-induced obese (DIO) mouse hearts compared with DCA-treated hearts. Four groups of mice were studied: lean control, DIO, DIO + DCA, and DIO + PS10. Both DCA and PS10 improved glucose tolerance in the intact animal. Pyruvate metabolism was studied in perfused hearts supplied with physiological mixtures of long chain fatty acids, lactate, and pyruvate. Analysis was performed using conventional ¹H and 13C isotopomer methods in combination with hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate in the same hearts. PS10 and DCA both stimulated flux through PDC as measured by the appearance of hyperpolarized [13C]bicarbonate. DCA but not PS10 increased hyperpolarized [1-13C]lactate production. Total carbohydrate oxidation was reduced in DIO mouse hearts but increased by DCA and PS10, the latter doing so without increasing lactate production. The present results suggest that PS10 is a more suitable PDK inhibitor for treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha/gamma (PPARα/γ) agonists have emerged as important pharmacological agents for improving insulin action. Propane-2-sulfonic acid octadec-9-enyl-amide (N15) is a novel PPARα/γ dual agonist synthesized in our laboratory. The present study investigates the efficacy and safety of N15 on insulin resistance regulation in high fat diet (HFD)-and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice and in palmitic acid (PA)-induced HepG2 cells. Our results showed that N15 remarkably ameliorated insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in vivo, as well as rectified the glucose consumption and gluconeogenesis in vitro. Moreover, the glucose-lowering effect of N15 was associated with PPARγ mediated up-regulation of hepatic glucose consumption and down-regulation of gluconeogenesis. Meanwhile, N15 exerted advantageous effects on glucose and lipid metabolism without triggering weight gain and hepatotoxicity in mice. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that by alleviating glucose and lipid abnormalities, N15 could be used as a potential prophylactic and therapeutic agent against type 2 diabetes and related metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus-doped three-dimensional hierarchical porous carbons (P-3DHPCs) have been synthesized by direct pyrolysis of mixture containing glucose, manganese nitrate and sodium hypophosphite without any hard templates. Glucose and sodium hypophosphite are used as carbon and phosphorus source in the facile template-free strategy, respectively. The P-3DHPCs not only possess favorable hierarchical pore structure which is beneficial to ion adsorption and transportation, but also acquire effective heteroatoms doping, further improving the capacitive performance. More importantly, the amount of sodium hypophosphite plays a critical role in textural properties and phosphorus content of P-3DHPCs. The results demonstrate that P-3DHPC-0.2 shows the best electrochemical performance compared to the other samples. High specific capacitance (367 F g −1 at 0.3 A g −1 ) is obtained in 6 M KOH, and the capacitance still maintains 319 F g −1 when tested at 20 A g −1 (ca.88% capacitance retention). Moreover, the P-3DHPC-0.2 also possesses good cycling stability with only a loss of 3.5% after 10000 cycles at 3 A g −1 . The facile preparation method and good electrochemical performance render P-3DHPCs to be a promising candidate for supercapacitor application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual emissive Cd-free quantum dots (QDs) are in great demand for various applications. However, their synthesis has been faced with challenges. Here, we demonstrate the dual emissive Ag:InP/ZnS core/shell QDs with the excellent photoluminescence quantum yield (PL QY) up to 75% and their PL dependence on the reaction temperature, reaction time, the different ZnX 2 (X = I, Cl, and Br) precursors, the ratio of In/Zn and the Ag dopant concentration. The as-prepared Ag:InP/ZnS QDs exhibit dual emission with one peak position of about 492 nm owing to the intrinsic emission, and the other peak position of about 575 nm resulting from Ag-doped emission. These dual emissive QDs are integrated with the commercial GaN-based blue LEDs, and the simulation results show that the Ag:InP/ZnS QDs-based white LEDs could realize bright natural white-lights with the luminous efficacy (LE) of 94.2-98.4 lm/W, the color rendering index (CRI) of 82–83 and the color quality scale (CQS) of 82–83 at different correlated color temperatures (CCT). This unique combination of the above properties makes this new class of dual emissive QDs attractive for white LED applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work report the synthesis of porous carbon with hierarchical pore structure and uniform nitrogen-sulfur-oxygen doping. The favorable pore structure (micro-, meso-, and macro-pores) is beneficial to ion adsorption and transportation, and the doping heteroatoms can introduce electrochemical active sites which contribute to additional pseudocapacitance. Therefore, the carbon material shows good electrochemical performance when employed as supercapacitor electrode. High specific capacitance (367 F g −1 at 0.3 A g −1 ), good rate performance and stable cycling characteristics are obtained in 6 M KOH. In addition, when tested in 1 M H 2 SO 4 , a higher specific capacitance (382 F g −1 at 0.3 A g −1 ) is delivered. Furthermore, the assembled symmetric cell yields a maximum specific energy of 35.3 W h kg −1 in 1 M TEABF 4 /AN, significantly improving the specific energy of carbon-based supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimization of macrocyclic inhibitors of FXIa is described which focused on modifications to both the macrocyclic linker and the P1 group. Increases in potency were discovered through interactions with a key hydrophobic region near the S1 prime pocket by substitution of the macrocyclic linker with small alkyl groups. Both the position of substitution and the absolute stereochemistry of the alkyl groups on the macrocyclic linker which led to improved potency varied depending on the ring size of the macrocycle. Replacement of the chlorophenyltetrazole cinnamide P1 in these optimized macrocycles reduced the polar surface area and improved the oral bioavailability for the series, albeit at the cost of a decrease in potency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

10-(3-Bromo-4-Hydroxyphenyl)-5,15-bis(pentafluorophenyl)corrole phosphorus(V) (1-P) exhibited excellent photodynamic antitumor activity in vivo and in vitro. Edible bird's nest (EBN) might have a positive effect on the elimination of tumor in mice treated with PDT by enhancing the expression of immune T cells. [Display omitted] • Several new Ga(III) and P(V) corrole complexes were synthesized. • P(V) corrole complex 1-P exhibited high singlet oxygen quantum yield and photostability. • P(V) corrole complex 1-P showed excellent photodynamic antitumor activity in vivo and vitro. • PDT treatment may enhance antitumor immune responses (eg, CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+) of tumor grafted mice. • Edible bird's nest (EBN) administration might help to eliminate tumors by enhancing T cell expression. Four new phosphorus(V) and gallium(III) corrole complexes were prepared and evaluated as antitumor agents in photodynamic therapy (PDT) in vivo and vitro. All complexes showed low dark toxicity and good photocytotoxicity under light illumination (625 ± 2 nm, 3 W/m2). Especially, phosphorus(V) corrole (1-P) exhibited quite excellent photocytotoxicity with IC 50 of 0.03 (±0.003) μM with phototoxic indices (p.i.) of >3333.33 against MDA-MB-231 tumor cells. Under light irradiation, 1-P could produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells and destroy mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to apoptosis. The PDT treatment with 1-P arrested the cell at sub-G1 phase. Animal test showed 1-P could effectively inhibit the growth of MDA-MB-231 tumor cell grafted BALB/c nude mice. The PDT generated ROS might boost the anti-tumor immune response (e.g., CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+). It is well known that edible bird's nest (EBN) helps to improve the immune system and thus is beneficial to health. Photodynamic therapy combined with EBN (100 mg/kg) treatment was conducted for the first time to evaluate the possible antitumor synergistic effect in mice. It turned that EBN may do significant positive help in eliminating the tumors in PDT-treated mice by enhancing T cell expression as indicated by the detection of remarkable higher CD3+ expression in tumor and spleen tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium–sulfur batteries are a promising energy storage devices beyond conventional lithium ion batteries. However, the “shuttle effect” of soluble polysulfides is a major barrier between electrodes, resulting in rapid capacity fading. To address above issue, pyrrole has been investigated as an electrolyte additive to trap polysulfides. When pyrrole is added into electrolyte, a surface protective layer of polypyrrole can be formed on the sulfur cathode, which not only acts as a conductive agent to provide an effective electron conduction path but also acts as an absorbing agent and barrier layer suppressing the diffusion of polysulfide intermediates. The results demonstrate that an appropriate amount of pyrrole added into the electrolyte leads to excellent cycling stability and rate capability. Apparently, pyrrole is an effective additive for the entrapment of polysulfides of lithium-sulfur batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physicochemical properties of polybrominated diphenyl ethers are important for modeling their transport, but these data are often missing. Here, satisfactory bioactivity results were obtained using human serum albumin as the carrier, 2,2′,4,4′,5,6′-hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE154) and 3-hydroxy-2,2′,4,4′, 5,6′-hexabromodiphenyl ether (3OH-BDE154) as the ligands, using UV–visible absorbance, fluorescence, circular dichroism, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics methods. The interactions between human serum albumin and BDE154 or 3OH-BDE154 were verified, consistent with the static quenching procedure. At pH 7.4, the binding constants of the complexes for site I were relatively comparable and increased in the order BDE154 < 3OH-BDE154. Then, the secondary structure and kinetic parameters of albumin were analyzed using the circular dichroism spectra and GROMACS software. The data obtained from these simulations indicate that hydrophobic attraction might be the key factor for the stability of complexes. The docking experiments provided further insight into the hydrophobic pocket and showed that 3OH-BDE154 has a stronger binding affinity to human serum albumin than BDE154. The experimental spectral data were obtained and compared with the simulation results, showing good agreement. A detailed analysis of PBDEs–HSA interactions would provide valuable information to better understand the interaction on this class of compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twitter has become one of largest social networks for users to broadcast burst topics. There have been many studies on how to detect burst topics. However, mining burst patterns in burst topics has not been solved by the existing works. In this paper, we investigate the problem of mining burst patterns of burst topic in Twitter. A burst topic user graph model is proposed, which can represent the topology structure of burst topic propagation across a large number of Twitter users. Based on the model, hierarchical clustering is applied to cluster burst topics and reveal burst patterns from the macro perspective. Frequent sub-graph mining is used to discover the information flow patterns of burst topic from the micro perspective. Experimental results show that several interesting burst patterns are discovered, which can reveal different burst topic clusters and frequent information flows of burst topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrathin porous carbon shell with the thickness of about 10 nm has been fabricated by a facile method using sodium citrate as carbon precursor without any activation. The electric conductivity of the material is as high as 7.12 S/cm, which contributes to a good rate performance for supercapacitor electrode without any conductive additive. When tested in 6 M KOH by three-electrode system, the C-700 sample exhibits specific capacitance of 251 F g −1 at 1 A g −1 , high rate capability with the specific capacitance of 228 F g −1 at 20 A g −1 , only a loss of 3% after 10000 cycles at a current density of 3 A g −1 . Non aqueous performance was tested in 1 M TEA-BF 4 /acetonitrile, the material can deliver an energy density of 12–17 Wh kg −1 in a two-electrode system. Apparently, the porous carbon with ultrathin structure can provide low-resistant pathways and short ion diffusion channels for energy storage. Therefore, the ultrathin porous carbon shell would be a promising material particularly for applications where high power output performances are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Downsizing a benchmark MOF into uniform nanosized materials. • Enhanced gas adsorption rate and capacity. • High-performance separation of propane and propylene. The separation of propane/propylene mixtures to produce polymer-grade propylene represents an important yet challenging task in the petrochemical industry. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) hold particular promise for the energy-efficient adsorptive separation of propane/propylene, in light of their structural diversity as well as highly tunable pore dimensions. MOFs exhibiting selective molecular exclusion for propylene over propane render exceptionally high adsorption selectivity. However, the relatively low adsorption capacity and/or slow diffusion kinetics have largely limited their separation efficiency. Here we report the fabrication of nano-sized crystals of a MOF-based splitter for propane and propylene. Compared to the micro-sized MOF samples, the nanocrystals display enhanced adsorption kinetics as well as notably improved adsorption capacity, making a new record with the highest efficiency for the separation of propane/propylene among all reported MOF-based splitters. Our study may shed light on the development of MOF-based adsorbents with optimal efficiency for industrially challenging gas separations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel sandwiched gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) was prepared using a facile method as separator solely for rechargeable Lithium–Sulfur batteries. As a result of the strong physical shielding and chemical absorption of GPE, the separator can not only suppress shuttle effect in ether-based electrolyte, but also improve utilization of sulfur significantly resulting in a high capacity. The PVDF layers could absorb ether-based electrolyte largely and then enhance Li + transfer; the PMMA layer can be utilized to trap the dissolved polysulfides. Lithium–Sulfur batteries with the sandwiched GPE separator shows an encouraging electrochemical performance. A high initial discharge capacity of 1711.8 mAh g −1 is obtained, and the capacity retains at 1145.3 mAh g −1 after 50 cycles at 200 mA g −1 , which is higher than that of the cell with the commercial separator. These results indicate that the appropriate GPE separator is more suitable in Lithium−Sulfur batteries applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale Mesozoic volcanisms in the Great Xing’an Mountains (GXM), northeastern (NE) China, are being extensively interested recently. However, the petrogenesis and geodynamic implications of these volcanic rocks are still on controversy. In this study, geochronology and geochemistry of the intermediate and felsic volcanic rocks of Late Mesozoic from the southern GXM was investigated. Zircon U–Pb geochronology yields 206 Pb/ 238 U ages ranging from 154.3 ± 1.7 Ma to 127.0 ± 2.4 Ma for the eight selected volcanic rocks, where the major period of the Mesozoic volcanisms is constrained during the Early Cretaceous. The presented volcanic rocks are andesite–trachydacite–rhyolite and show calc-alkaline to shoshonitic features. They have elevated incompatible trace element concentrations and significantly negative Nb–Ta–Ti and positive Pb anomalies, which display characteristics of typical subduction-related magmas rather than within-plate magmatic signature. Sr–Nd isotopic data indicate that their magma sources were mixed with proportions of old crustal components. Geochemical features, therefore, indicate that the intermediate and felsic shoshonitic magma was plausibly derived from partial melting of the subduction-modified lithospheric mantle and thickened lower crust, respectively, induced by delamination and/or asthenosphere upwelling in extensional setting. Combined with the tectonic evolution of the Great Xing’an area, we propose a hypothesis that the large-scale Mesozoic volcanisms in NE China were controlled by the transition of regional stress from southward to westward, which are induced by the changes of tectonic regimes from the previous Mongol–Okhotsk subduction to the succeeding paleo-Pacific subduction during Late Mesozoic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper revisits the design of adaptive impulsive observers (AIOs) for nonlinear systems. The dynamics of observer state of the proposed AIO is modelled by an impulsive differential equation, by which the observer state is updated in an impulsive fashion. The parameter estimation law is modelled by an impulse-free time-varying differential equation associated with the impulse time sequence for determining when the observer state is updated. Unlike the previous work, the convergence analysis of the estimation error system is performed by applying a time-varying Lyapunov function based method, in conjunction with the application of a generalized version of Barbalat’s Lemma. A sufficient condition for the existence of AIOs is also derived. For some special cases, it is shown that the sufficient condition can be formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), and the observer matrices can be attained by solving a set of LMIs. Furthermore, with an additional persistence-of-excitation-type constraint, it is proved that the sufficient condition can guarantee the convergence of parameter estimation. Two examples of chaotic oscillators are provided to illustrate the design procedure of the proposed AIOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the multistability problem of discrete-time delayed Cohen–Grossberg neural networks (DDCGNNs) with second-order synaptic connectivity. For the neural networks with nondecreasing saturated activation functions possessing 2 corner points, based on the partition space method and reduction ad absurdum, several sufficient conditions are derived to ensure that n -neuron second-order DDCGNNs can have 2 n locally exponentially stable equilibrium points. Then, the analyses are extended to nondecreasing saturated activation functions with 2 r corner points and some sufficient conditions are given to guarantee that the n -neuron DDCGNNs can have ( r + 1 ) n locally exponentially stable equilibrium points. Moreover, some conditions are obtained to ensure the existence of locally exponentially stable equilibrium point in a predesigned region. Finally, three examples are carried out to show the effectiveness of the proposed criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a new subwavelength focusing scheme in a limited number of two-dimensional (2D) metallic waveguide arrays. The entrances of middle waveguides are sheltered and only the waveguides on both sides of the array are open. Simulation results show that this structure can focus a plane wave (λ=632.8 nm) to a point in the middle waveguide. The full width at half-maximum of the focusing spot is about 54 nm, whereas the FWHM without the shelter is about 150 nm. We analyze the supermode propagation of SPPs in the MWGA and find that the focusing behavior can be explained by the superposition of the supermode of SPPs. The theoretical results show a good agreement with numerical simulation results. We discuss the power loss arising from the shelter and find that the shelter in middle waveguides has little effect on the energy of the focus in the waveguide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophobic ZnO nanorods were successfully fabricated on zinc substrate via combining thermal oxidation and surface modification. The water contact angle on the superhydrophobic ZnO nanorods surface is 153.6±1°, and the slide angle is about 4°. Compared with the unmodified ZnO nanorods surface, the superhydrophobic ZnO nanorods surface could effectively enhance the corrosion resistance of zinc substrate. The presented approach may open a new avenue in the design and fabrication of superhydrophobic metal materials with anticorrosive property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the image quality of fast neutron radiography, a converter made of scintillator and wavelength-shifting fibers has been developed. The appropriate parameters of the converter such as fibers arrangement, distance between fibers are optimized theoretically, and manufacture of the converter are also optimized. Fast neutron radiography experiments by 14 MeV neutrons are used to test this converter and kinds of traditional converters. The experiments' results matched the calculations. The novel converter's resolution is better than 1 mm and the light output is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arc magmatism plays an important role in the recycling of subducted carbon and returning it to the surface. However, the transfer mechanisms of carbon are poorly understood. In this study, the contribution of subducted carbonate-rich sediments to the genesis of the carbonate-bearing K-rich igneous rocks from western Tianshan was investigated. Four key triggers are involved, including sediments subduction, slab decarbonation, partial melting and magma segregation. The globular carbonate ocelli show C–O isotope signatures intermediate between oceanic sediments and mantle, suggesting that the carbon of the primary carbonate ocelli was derived from recycled subducted sediments in the mantle. Decarbonation of the subducted slab is regarded as the primary agent to carbonize the mantle wedge. Geochemical features indicate that the carbonate ocelli are primary, and that the parental K- and carbon-rich mafic alkaline magma was derived from partial melting of carbonated mantle wedge veined with phlogopite. Major and trace element compositions indicate that globular carbonate ocelli hosted in the Bugula K-rich igneous rocks are calcio-carbonate and formed primarily by segregation of the differentiated CO 2 -rich alkaline magma after crystallization fractionation. The K-rich alkaline magma, which formed from partial melting of metasomatized (i.e., phlogopite bearing) mantle wedge in the sub-arc region, is a favorable agent to transport subducted carbon back to the Earth’s surface during carbon recycling in subduction zones, because of the high CO 2 solubility in alkaline mafic magma. We therefore propose a model for the petrogenesis of the carbonate-bearing K-rich igneous rocks in western Tianshan, which are significant for revealing the mechanism of carbon recycling in subduction zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reversible surface wetting behaviors between superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity is a hot topic research due to its potential applications in engineering. In the present work, a superhydrophilic copper film with flower-like structures was fabricated on zinc plate by a facile method of electroless deposition, and water contact angle on the copper film is 0°. After being modified by dodecanethiol (DDT), the superhydrophilic film was converted to be superhydrophobic with a water contact angle larger than 152° and a gliding angle lower than 5°. Interestingly, the superhydrophobic copper film was switched back to superhydrophilic after being annealed at 300°C for 30min and restored to superhydrophobic again after remodification with DDT, and the reversible switch between superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity could be repeated several times. Compared with the bare zinc plate and unmodified copper film, the superhydrophobic copper film modified by DDT possesses good anticorrosion properties due to the trapped air in the hierarchical structure of the “flower pits”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous firing activity of nigral dopaminergic neurons is associated with some important roles including modulation of dopamine release, expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), as well as neuronal survival. The decreased neuroactivity of nigral dopaminergic neurons has been revealed in Parkinson's disease. Central glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) functions as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator to exert multiple brain functions. Although morphological studies revealed the expression of GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) in the substantia nigra pars compacta, the possible modulation of GLP-1 on spontaneous firing activity of nigral dopaminergic neurons is unknown. The present extracellular in vivo single unit recordings revealed that GLP-1R agonist exendin-4 significantly increased the spontaneous firing rate and decreased the firing regularity of partial nigral dopaminergic neurons of adult male C57BL/6 mice. Blockade of GLP-1Rs by exendin (9–39) decreased the firing rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons suggesting the involvement of endogenous GLP-1 in the modulation of firing activity. Furthermore, the PKA and the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 4/5 channels are involved in activation of GLP-1Rs-induced excitatory effects of nigral dopaminergic neurons. Under parkinsonian state, both the exogenous and endogenous GLP-1 could still induce excitatory effects on the surviving nigral dopaminergic neurons. As the mild excitatory stimuli exert neuroprotective effects on nigral dopaminergic neurons, the present GLP-1-induced excitatory effects may partially contribute to its antiparkinsonian effects. • GLP-1R agonist exendin-4 increased the firing rate of nigral dopaminergic neurons. • Endogenous GLP-1 is involved in the modulation of firing activity. • PKA and TRPC 4/5 channels are involved in GLP-1R-induced excitation. • GLP-1 is functional on the surviving nigral dopaminergic neurons in PD mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, experimental results on size distribution, inorganic element distribution, and inorganic minerals composition/transformation of particulate matter generated from solid waste combustion are revealed. The results showed that the PM 10 generated from solid waste combustion exhibited a trimodal distribution. The yields of PM 1 and PM 10 shows a linear correlation with the (Na 2 O + K 2 O)/(SiO 2 + Al 2 O 3) ratio of solid waste ash. As the ratio of (Na 2 O + K 2 O)/(SiO 2 + Al 2 O 3) increases, the yields of PM 1 and the proportion of PM 1 /PM 10 increases. Among all solid wastes, the migration tendency of Si to PM 10 is the smallest. The K in MSW and RDF has the highest migration tendency to PM 10 , and the migration tendency of heavy metal elements (Fe, Mg) in WW to PM 10 was higher than that of alkali elements. The PM 2.5 – 10 generated from MSW combustion were composed of a molten inorganic salt components (Na/K/Mg-Al-Si, Na/K/Ca-Cl and Na/K-S-O) and refractory spherical/irregular mineral components (Ca-Al-Si, Fe 2 O 3 , SiO 2 , Ca-Si, etc.). The difference in the relative content of CaO, SiO 2 , and Al 2 O 3 in the solid waste ash led to different existence forms of Ca-Al-Si species in the ash particles generated during combustion. The agglomeration and coalescence mechanism of refractory coarse particles in PM 10 were also revealed. • The PM generated by solid waste combustion exhibited a trimodal distribution. • Inorganic elements showed different distribution and migration tendency in PM. • PM 1 yield showed a linear correlation with the (Na 2 O + K 2 O)/(SiO 2 + Al 2 O 3) ratio of ash. • The coalescence mechanism of refractory coarse particles in PM 10 were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • PM 0.2 and PM 0.2-1 yields showed opposite trends with combustion temperature increase. • NaCl, KCl, K 3 Na(SO 4) 2 , and SiO 2 are the major inorganic mineral components in PM 1. • The "crystallization" modes formed by alkali chlorides was found in PM 0.2-1. • The heterogeneous nucleation of alkali chloride and sulfate promote PM 0.2-1 formation. This paper presents an information on size distribution, inorganic composition and formation mechanism of submicron particles generated from MSW combustion. The XRD and CCSEM analysis results clearly showed that NaCl, KCl, K 3 Na(SO 4) 2 , and SiO 2 are the major inorganic mineral components in submicron particles. Submicron particles are mainly composed of organic components, alkali chlorides, alkali sulfates, and refractory inorganic minerals, but they account for different proportions in PM 0.2 and PM 0.2-1. There are five formation modes of submicron particles in MSW combustion: "condensation", "nucleation", "accumulation", "crystallization" and "fragmentation". The "condensation" mechanism mainly seen in PM 0.2 composed of gas components, the "crystallization" and "fragmentation" modes formed by alkali salts and char particles are mainly present in PM 0.2-1 , the "nucleation" and "accumulation" modes coexist in PM 0.2 and PM 0.2-1. As the combustion temperature increased, the alkali chlorides and sulfates in the "crystallization" form decreased, and the inorganic mineral components in the "nucleation" form increased, which results in the variation of size distribution of submicron particles. In addition, volatile alkali salt nucleation experiments show that when alkali chloride and sulfate coexist in high-temperature flue gas, heterogeneous nucleation and agglomeration can significantly enhance the accumulation of particles in the range of 0.2–0.5 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass structure and reactivity of torrefied products are a matter of great concern to explore the fuel properties, pyrolysis characteristics, and microcosmic appearance, and life cycle assessment (LCA) is of great importance to evaluate the environmental impact of the torrefaction process. This study investigates the properties and microstructure of torrefied rice straw, including fuel properties, pyrolysis kinetics, crystallinity, surface functional group changes, and microscopic appearance. Results show that a good linear distribution appears between the comprehensive pyrolysis index (CPI) and atomic H/C ratio, and CPI and crystallinity index (CrI). Fourier transform infrared spectra depict dehydration, decarboxylation, and decarbonylation occur during the torrefaction process. The scanning electron microscope images illustrated the surface characteristics are closely related to the release of volatiles during the torrefaction process. The solid 13C NMR spectra of raw and torrefied rice straw reflect that the aromaticity will improve with increasing the torrefaction severity. For LCA analysis, the environmental impact of the torrefaction process shows a positive correlation with torrefaction temperature, and the global warming potential is in the range of 0.1469–0.2707 kg CO 2 emission. This study is meaningful for the evaluation of fuel properties and torrefaction performance as well as microstructure and reactivity of torrefied rice straw. [Display omitted] • Torrefaction improves the thermal stability of torrefied rice straw with devolatilization. • CPI can act as the predictors of atomic H/C ratio and CrI during the torrefaction process. • Dehydration, decarboxylation, and decarbonylation are accomplished in torrefaction. • The aromaticity of rice straw is improved by torrefaction. • The value of global warming potential is in the range of 0.1469–0.2707 kg CO 2 emission potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We identified the presence of MT1 and MT2 both at transcriptional and translational levels in bovine SCs. [•] Melatonin affects the expression of MT1 and MT2 mRNA in both time and dose-dependent manners. [•] Melatonin affects the expression of spermatogenesis-related genes in bovine SCs. [•] Melatonin affects the secretion function of bovine SCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] DBPs with log K ow ⩾1.97 can be sonodegraded. [•] More chlorine atoms in the DBPs molecular structure seems easier to be adsorbed. [•] All the 12 targeted DBPs can be removed effectively by combined use of US and QS. [•] Part of QS particles were corroded into small particles and play a catalytic role. [•] Enhanced mass transfer rate leading to an improvement of QS adsorption efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines are emerging as an exciting platform for the delivery of antigenic modules to enable engineering of desirable immunological outcomes, both in therapeutic and prophylactic settings. The processing of these macromolecular assemblies raises new challenges not previously encountered for simpler protein therapeutics. Microbial expression of viral precursor protein complexes (capsomeres) and their subsequent cell-free self-assembly represent a new and technologically interesting pathway to VLP vaccines, yet significant scientific and engineering challenges remain. Among these, the use of thrombin within the existing laboratory process must be eliminated, for regulatory, cost and product quality reasons. Here, the use of alternatives to thrombin is explored. It is shown that tobacco etch virus protease (TEVp) is a viable alternative to thrombin, and leads to higher-quality VLP product; as TEVp has no known human physiological or biochemical role, its bioprocessing acceptability is expected to be higher than for thrombin. The results presented here enhance the scale-up potential of microbial VLP processing, and suggest that TEVp may be a preferable enzyme for use in other bioprocess settings, including those related to the processing of less complex biologics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Spiropiperidine indoline-substituted diaryl ureas had been identified as antagonists of the P2Y1 receptor. Enhancements in potency were realized through the introduction of a 7-hydroxyl substitution on the spiropiperidinylindoline chemotype. SAR studies were conducted to improve PK and potency, resulting in the identification of compound 3e, a potent, orally bioavailable P2Y1 antagonist with a suitable PK profile in preclinical species. Compound 3e demonstrated a robust antithrombotic effect in vivo and improved bleeding risk profile compared to the P2Y12 antagonist clopidogrel in rat efficacy/bleeding models. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of diphenylpyridylethanamine-based inhibitors of cholesteryl ester transfer protein with aminoheterocycles appended onto the N-terminus of the chemotype were explored as urea mimetics. Potent compounds were discovered and were further optimized to improve metabolic stability and PXR transactivation profile. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) is a membrane glycoprotein mediating most biological actions of IGF1 and IGF2, and has an important effect on ovulation, pre-implantation embryo development and pregnancy rate. The objectives of this study were to detect IGF1R gene polymorphisms of cattle and analyze the relationship with superovulation performance and pregnancy rates after embryo transfer (ET), as well as the hormone concentrations at the day of ET. One reported SNP of IGF1R G404T and a novel SNP of IGF1R G399A were analyzed in 170 Chinese Holstein donor cows and 118 Luxi recipients cattle. Statistical analysis revealed that the G404T mutation was associated (p =0.019) with increased ovulation rate and females with this mutation had enhanced performance in producing transferable embryos. For the polymorphic locus G399A, recipients with g.399 GG and g.399 GA genotypes had greater pregnancy rates after ET than that of g.399 AA genotype. Furthermore, the same tendency was observed that the genotype groups with greater pregnancy rates had greater progesterone and lesser estrogen concentrations, but these did not reach statistical significance. Results of the present study showed, for the first time, that the polymorphism in IGF1R is associated with superovulation traits, and indicated that the IGFIR gene can be used as a potential marker for donor selection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • The REE–Nb–Zr mineralization is genetically with intensively hydrothermal alteration. • The Al–OH Pos2200 and IC values display regular patterns with metal concentrating. • SWIR spectrometry of white mica has potential for critical-metal exploration. The No. 782 deposit is one of the rare earth elements (REEs), niobium and zirconium resources of NE China and contains ~17 million tons of ore @ 0.23 wt% total REEs and Y oxides, @ 0.12 wt% Nb 2 O 5 , and @ 1.00 wt% ZrO 2. The REE–Nb–Zr minerals are hosted mainly in the late Ordovician porphyritic alkali-feldspar granite, which intrudes in a late Cambrian monzogranite. Zirconium is present mainly in zircon aggregates, niobium and heavy REEs mainly in fergusonite-(Y), and light REEs dominantly in bastnäsite-(Ce) and parisite-(Ce). Most of these economic minerals are hydrothermal in origin, occurred as replacement textures and fracture-filled veins. Six types of phyllosilicate mineral (muscovite, illite, phengite, montmorillonite, chlorite, and halloysite), which cannot be distinguished confidently by visual criteria, were detected using short wavelength infrared (SWIR) analysis. Given that white mica (i.e., muscovite, illite, and phengite) is a pervasive mineral throughout the pluton, SWIR spectroscopy on drill cores from two profiles (II and IV) of the deposit was carried out to decipher the distribution of alteration assemblages that are characterized by subtle variations in the alteration products. The illite Al–OH absorption position (Pos2200) and illite crystallinity (IC) display regular patterns, with Pos2200 values < 2,203 nm and IC > 1.26, coinciding with the high grades of REE–Nb–Zr mineralization. The phengite is limited to the mineralized zone of profile II. Such regular patterns of white mica might have been induced by the relatively high temperature fluids surrounding the center of alteration. Our results suggest that combinations of the SWIR spectral parameters of hydrothermal alteration products can be used as potential vectors to economic ores, tracing the pathways of hydrothermal fluids, and quantifying the ore grades of the No. 782 deposit. The super-enrichment of rare metals in granitic systems is controlled predominantly by extensive hydrothermal activity, and our results show that these REE deposits can be usefully assessed using the SWIR method, which has implications for future metal exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]