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Organic material input can improve soil health and mitigate adverse environmental consequences; however, there is controversy regarding the promoting effects of organic material inputs on soil health due to a lack of quantitative information on the effects of different organic materials from agricultural sources on soil health. This study proposed a novel soil health evaluation method using tree-structured machine learning algorithms to quantitatively assess the effects of animal-sourced (AS) and plant-sourced organic materials (PS) on soil health. The results demonstrated that in the testing set, the two ensemble models, random forest regressor (RFR) and light gradient boosting machine regressor (LightGBMR), showed high coefficient of determination (R 2) of 0.879 and 0.877, respectively, and relative percent deviation (RPD) of 2.83 and 2.84, respectively (P < 0.001). Our findings indicated that the application of AS resulted in superior improvement of soil health for rice, wheat, and maize in comparison to PS. Compared with chemical fertilizer (CF), AS improved soil health indices (SHIs) for rice, wheat, and maize by 23.8–39.8%, PS improved SHIs for rice, wheat, and maize by 13.4–24.4%, and AS + PS improved SHIs for rice, wheat, and maize by 16.0–35.4% (P < 0.001). In addition, the positive effect of AS on SHIs was greater than that of PS. Compared with PS, the SHIs for rice, wheat, and maize increased by 7.34–14.9% for AS (P < 0.001). The reasonable nitrogen (N) application rates for rice, wheat, and maize were 262–290, 235–259, and 299–331 kg ha−1 year−1, respectively. Based on the positive feedback effects on soil health, the reasonable AS substitution rates for rice, wheat, and maize were 26.4–29.2%, 27.0–29.8%, and 29.6–32.8%, respectively. This study confirmed that organic materials improve soil health through optimized substitution, thus contributing to sustainable agricultural management and reducing adverse environmental impacts. [Display omitted] • A novel soil health assessment method using machine learning algorithms was explored. • Manure showed a better effect on soil health indices than plant-sourced materials. • Ideal manure substitution rates for rice, wheat, and maize were 27.8, 28.4, and 31.2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Tetracycline is effectively decontaminated by Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 via PS activation. • OH, O 2 −, 1O 2 and reactive MnII (s) -S 2 O 8 2−* are involved tetracycline degradation. • Zn-O-Mn electron transport channel facilitates the electron transfer in PS activation. • MnII (s) on Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 surface is the dominant sites for active species generation. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) based on persulfate (PS) activation is an extremely effective method to removal antibiotics in wastewater. In this process, endowing abundant active sites and rapid electron transfer channel over catalyst are two essential factors for high performance towards decontamination. Herein, a novel core–shell catalyst Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 with large specific surface area was prepared to remove antibiotics via PS activation under visible light irradiation. Intriguingly, the removal efficiency of tetracycline (TC) by Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 with optimal compound ratio was 3.2 times that of original Mn 2 O 3. The characterizations and density functional theory calculations proved that a Zn-O-Mn electron transfer channel was constructed in Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 heterostructure, which greatly promoted electron transport and photogenerated electron-hole separation. In addition, the activation of PS and degradation of pollutants by Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 was a highly surface-dependent reaction. The correlation between surface physicochemical properties and pollutant removal was further established to uncover the dominant active sites for PS activation. The quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests confirmed that PS was mainly activated by surface active MnII (s) and dissociated into reactive oxygen species OH, O 2 −, and 1O 2 , or formed reactive complexes MnII (s) -S 2 O 8 2−* to induce electron transfer and achieve TC oxidation. Besides, Mn 2 O 3 @ZIF-8 exhibited satisfactory removal of multiple pollutants and actual pharmaceutical wastewater as well as effective detoxification due to the coexistence of the above radicals and non-radicals pathways. The study provides novel insights into the design of high efficiency of Mn-based catalysts for antibiotic wastewater purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We investigate a bipedal inverted pendulum (BIP) model for human–structure interaction. • Model comparison is carried out to show the effect of leg damping on BIP's gaits. • Measured and simulated ground reaction forces are compared in both time and frequency domains. • The ability of the proposed model to cover gait diversity is verified. The bipedal inverted pendulum with damping has been adopted to simulate human–structure interaction recently. However, the lack of analysis and verification has provided motivation for further investigation. Leg damping and energy compensation strategy are required for the bipedal inverted pendulum to regulate gait patterns on vibrating structures. In this paper, the Hunt–Crossley model is adopted to get zeros contact force at touch down, while energy compensation is achieved by adjusting the stiffness and rest length of the legs. The damped bipedal inverted pendulum can achieve stable periodic gait with a lower energy input and flatter attack angle so that more gaits are available, compared to the template, referred to as spring-load inverted pendulum. The measured and simulated vertical ground reaction force-time histories are in good agreement. In addition, the dynamic load factors are also within a reasonable range. Parametric analysis shows that the damped bipedal inverted pendulum can achieve stable gaits of 1.6 to 2.4 Hz with a reasonable first harmonic dynamic load factor, which covers the normal walking step frequency. The proposed model in this paper can be applied to human–structure interaction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discrepancy between livestock breeding and crop planting in integrated crop-livestock system (ICLSs) usually cause nutrients surpluses to the arable land. Evaluation of regional land bearing capacity and identification of environmental critical regions associated with livestock in China are benefit to nationally- and regionally-specific livestock rearing. This study was conducted to demonstrates the changes in livestock industry from 1996 to 2016 in China and identify the environmentally critical regions of livestock farming by calculating the indexes of bearing capacity of cropland based on nitrogen (I N) and phosphorus (I P). The results revealed that the scale of livestock and poultry farming, manure production, and manure nutrients has increased over the past two decades. The livestock and poultry breeding quantity was 1290.8 million heads with a manure production of 4238.0 million tons in 2016. The manure N and P were 12.0 and 1.9 million tons with an increase of 5.8% and 5.9%, respectively. The N and P demand of crops from manure were 29.1and 4.5 million tons with an increase of 31.5% and 27.2%, respectively. The bearing capacities based on N and P were 2668.9 and 2554.7 million heads in pig equivalent, respectively. On the national level, the I N and I P were 0.43 and 0.45, respectively, which is categorized as Grade II. Livestock rearing in China was still within the bearing capacity of cropland. Both the Northeast and Northwest regions were categorized as Grade I, while Southeast region, Southwest region, the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River and the North China were categorized in Grade II. There is still enough space for expansion of livestock and poultry farming in the Northeast and Northwest regions. In the North China region, Southwest region, the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, and the Southeast region, manure generated can be accommodated without any expansion in livestock breeding quantity. While livestock industry in Sichuan, Yunnan, Beijing and Tianjin need to be strictly controlled because of the grade of IV and V. Image 1 • Livestock rearing in China was highly imbalanced among regions due to changes in livestock species abundances. • Nearly 4238.0 million tons of manure contained 12.0 and 1.9 million tons of N and P were generated in 2016. • The livestock bearing capacities based on N and P were 2668.9 and 2554.7 million heads in 2016. • Livestock rearing in China was within the bearing capacity, while some regions faced with potential livestock pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A general forming method for super-long span mega-latticed structures has been developed, based on the key parameters for five types of structure, together with a finite element model. The method combines the molding idea for universal spherical mega-latticed structures and the geometric topological relations of the improved traditional single-layer reticulated shell. The static and economic indexes of six kinds of 800 m span mega-latticed structures, with the same geometry, control parameters and loads, were calculated, and the force law for these structures under static load identified. Then structures suitable for spans of 1000 m and 1200 m were considered. The static performance and economic indexes showed that the mechanical and economic performance of the Geodesic type mega-latticed structure and the Three-dimensional grid type mega-latticed structure were excellent. In order to promote the engineering application of these structures, the influence of four key parameters on the performance of 1000 m structures was studied, and a reasonable range of indicative parameters obtained. Highlights • It is proved that the modeling method is universal for spherical mega-latticed structures. • The paper can better explain the static properties and the stability of super-long mega-latticed structures. • It is proved that the structure types selected have good mechanical properties and economic performance. • It is proved that through the method of parameter analysis, economic and reasonable structures can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • 7 temperature-based R s models were adopted to improve the Makkink model for ET 0 estimation in Northwest China. • The applicability of the 7 MK i models, original Makkink model, Jensen-Haise and Irmak model were evaluated on different time scales. • The 7 MK i models were more accurate than the 3 physical models. • The M5 model with temperature and relative humidity as input data has the best accuracy. Abstract Reference evapotranspiration (ET 0) is an important parameter for climatological and hydrological studies, as well as for agricultural water resources management. In this study, 7 temperature-based solar radiation models were adopted to improve the Makkink model for ET 0 estimation in Northwest China. The temperature-based models only require air temperature as input data, which can be easily monitored in most areas around the world. The applicability of the improved Makkink models (M1-M7), the original Makkink (MK) model, the Jensen-Haise (JH) model as well as the Irmak (IK) model were evaluated on different time scales using meteorological data obtained from 12 weather stations in Northwest China. The results showed that the 7 improved Makkink (MK i) models (R 2 ranged 0.71–0.86) were more accurate than the 3 physical models (R 2 ranged 0.64–0.76) for daily ET 0 estimation at the 4 sub-zones of Northwest China, and the M4, M5, M6 and M7 models were superior to the other models. The M5 model had the best estimation accuracy for daily ET 0 on daily scale, followed by M7 and M6, with the R 2 median of 0.83, 0.83 and 0.82, the RMSE median of 0.86, 0.88 and 0.89 mm/d, and the GPI median of 1.03, 0.90 and 0.87, respectively. On monthly scale, the 7 MK i models (with relative error almost less than 20%) were also better than the 3 physical models (with relative error usually more than 20%) at the 4 sub-zones. The M5 model also showed the best performance for monthly average daily ET 0 estimation, followed by M7 and M6, with the R 2 median of 1.00, 1.00 and 1.00, the RMSE median of 0.13, 0.16 and 0.19 mm/d, and the GPI median of 0.25, 0.05 and 0.02, respectively. Overall, the estimation accuracy of the Makkink model was much improved by using the temperature-based solar radiation models, and in Northwest China, M5 model which only requires temperature and relative humidity as input data is highly recommended to estimate ET 0 on both daily and monthly scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mn 2 O 3 as a typical Mn based semiconductor has attracted growing attention due to its peculiar 3 d electron structure and stability, and the multi-valence Mn on the surface is the key to peroxydisulfate activation. Herein, an octahedral structure of Mn 2 O 3 with (111) exposed facet was synthesized by a hydrothermal method, which was further sulfureted to obtained a variable-valent Mn oxide for the high activation efficiency of peroxydisulfate under the light emitting diode irradiation. The degradation experiments showed that under the irradiation of 420 nm light, S modified manganese oxide showed an excellent removal for tetracycline within 90 min, which is about 40.4% higher than that of pure Mn 2 O 3. In addition, the degradation rate constant k of S modified sample increased 2.17 times. Surface sulfidation not only increased the active sites and oxygen vacancies on the pristine Mn 2 O 3 surface, but also changed the electronic structure of Mn due to the introduce of surface S2−. This modification accelerated the electronic transmission during the degradation process. Meanwhile, the utilization efficiency of photogenerated electrons was greatly improved under light. Besides, the S modified manganese oxide had an excellent reuse performance after four cycles. The scavenging experiments and EPR analyses showed that •OH and 1O 2 were the main reactive oxygen species. This study therefore provides a new avenue for further developing manganese-based catalysts towards high activation efficiency for peroxydisulfate. [Display omitted] • The S-modified manganese oxide were synthesized by hydrothermal process. • ·OH and 1O 2 were the main ROS in the M-1S-90/PDS/LED light system. • The introduction of S greatly promoted the LED light response and valence cycle of Mn. • A reasonable PDS activation mechanism was put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous studies, snowdrifts around different buildings have been investigated in wind or water tunnels, or in the outdoor environment, to ensure proper accessibility and the safety of structures. The pattern of snowdrifts is strongly connected to the speed and incidence angle of the wind. Two sets of experiments have been undertaken to investigate the influence of wind on snowdrift accumulation around a model and another set of experiments have been undertaken to explore the influence on two separated models. The building model is a wooden cube with dimensions of 0.5 × 0.5 × 0.5 m. The experiments are carried out in an open air snow-wind combined experimental facility, which is situated outdoors, like an open air wind tunnel with a snowfall simulator. The facility can produce a stable wind field and snowfall environment for a specific duration. During the experiments, environmental conditions, like temperature and humidity were measured on a PC-4 automatic weather station. The snow used in the experiments came from the natural snowfall on 01/19/2016-01/22/2016. After each experiment, the snowdrift geometry was measured by surveying approximately 300 points around the model. The results reveal that the patterns of snow distribution show a close relationship with the surrounding wind field of buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparison was made of the static behavior of a double-layer reticulated shell, a local triple-layered reticulated shell, a ribbed type mega-latticed structure and a Kiewitt type mega-latticed structure with the same geometrical parameters and loads. The results show that the Kiewitt type mega-latticed structure has the best structural performance. Then a complex structural configuration was analyzed in detail, using CAD 3D modeling, and a command-flow was developed to create the new structure automatically by ANSYS Parameter Design Language as an innovative structural-programming method. The static analysis and comprehensive stability analysis were conducted. The reasonable values of parameters for the overall buckling mode were summarized and the ultimate bearing capacity was accurately obtained by considering geometrical nonlinear, material nonlinear and initial curvature of the members. The nonlinear equilibrium paths were traced using the Arc-length method. Results indicate that the 800 m Kiewitt type mega-latticed structure has a very low sensitivity to geometrical nonlinear and a low sensitivity to initial curvature of members, but a high sensitivity to material nonlinear. Therefore, the Kiewitt type mega-latticed structure could be regarded as a reasonable super-large span structure with several advantages, including reasonable stresses, clear force transmission lines, economic steel consumption, high stiffness and good bearing capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies on hazard recognition focused on single-mode neuropsychological responses using eye tracking or neuroimaging techniques, reflecting a limited understanding of the interaction between ocular and brain activities. This study explores the construction workers' meta-cognitive processes underpinning first target fixations using co-registration of eye movement (EM) and electroencephalography (EEG). The authors conducted a hazard recognition experiment to collect EM and EEG signals under free viewing conditions and examined the relationship between visual attention and cognitive processing. The results show that the workers allocated cognitive resources first to processing targets' visual features and then to discriminating safe or hazardous characteristics. Visual perception and conscious discrimination within first fixations are related to the prior detection of surroundings and affect the subsequent refixations. This study promotes evaluating the hazard recognition process in view of synchronous visual search and brain activity and advances the workers' hazard search patterns. • EM and EEG co-registration technique is applied in construction hazard recognition. • The workers' cognitive processes within first attention periods are decoded. • The effects of hazard features on fixation metrics and FRP components are examined. • Interaction of visual attention and cognitive processing is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates a new nanoemulsion NA-R, is an oil-in-water emulsion. It shows the natural distribution of <100 nm particle size. NA-R is able to provide ultralow surface tension of 33 mN/m and ultralow interfacial tension of 1.35 mN/m. When using it to remove the oil from the cuttings, it is able to reduce the contact angle and capillary force on the cuttings particle surface, subsequently, allowed water to penetrate and wet the particle surface and accessible pores. Once the particles surfaces are water-wet, oil will instantly repel from it and easily segregate through centrifuge force. It was found that the oil removal rate in the cuttings after treatment with nanoemulsion cleaning process was able to reach 95.7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The susceptibility of purple soil and intensive tillage render the land prone to erosion under heavy precipitations in a sloping cropland in southwestern China. This study aimed to improve the evaluation of the potential benefits of surface protection tillage and organic matter addition to decreasing nutrient losses. A field plot experiment under natural rainfall conditions was conducted, which employed four management practices: conventional downslope tillage system as control (CK), contour tillage (CT) with organic matter addition (CT + OM), CT with wheat straw mulching (CT + SM), and CT combining straw mulching and organic matter addition (CT + OM + SM). Runoff depth, nutrient loads, and soil erodibility were used to estimate the effects of straw mulching and organic matter addition. Results indicated that the runoff depth under CK was largest during the experimental period, with an average of 16.91 mm, and runoff coefficient average was 32%. Compared with CK, the runoff depth under CT + OM, CT + SM, and CT + OM + SM were reduced by 19%, 34%, and 50%, respectively. A significant difference in soil erodibility indicator among the four treatments was indicated (p < 0.05); CK achieved the highest value, whereas CT + OM + SM obtained the least value. In addition, the contour cultivation (i.e., CT approaches) were more sustainable than the downslope tillage system (i.e., CK). Soil erodibility under CK was 9.83 kg ha −1 mm −1 . Meanwhile, soil erodibility under CT + OM, CT + SM, and CT + OM + SM were 8.49, 6.99, and 6.87 kg ha −1 mm −1 , respectively. These values were 14%, 29%, and 30% lower than that of CK, respectively. CK was more susceptible to accelerated erosion compared with the plots with a surface cover or organic addition. This greater erodibility resulted in higher runoff, sediment yield, and associated nutrient loss for CK. The runoff-associated nitrogen losses were mainly controlled by the runoff rate and soil erodibility (p < 0.05). Variations in NO 3 − –N and NH 4 + –N concentration in runoff water were markedly affected by rainfall events and agricultural practice. A significant logarithmic correlation between NO 3 − –N load and runoff depth was identified. NO 3 − –N was proven to be the main form of inorganic nitrogen loss; therefore, fertilizer application of NO 3 − –N should be reduced in the purple soil region. Soil erodibility significantly influenced the available N losses (p < 0.01), which was best described by a positive logarithmic correlation. Soil nutrient concentration also played an important role in nitrogen loss. However, further research is needed to understand the dynamic interactions between soil erodibility as well as soil and nutrient losses. Results indicated that surface protection by CT + OM + SM is one of the good management practices to reduce soil loss by water erosion in regions with intense agricultural activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hydroxylamine significantly enhances persulfate activation by copper tailings. • The leached Fe and Cu is below the limits of surface water standards. • Hydroxylamine and Cu(I) mediate the Fe(III)/Fe(II) cycle. • DFT calculations indicate enhanced adsorption of persulfate by hydroxylamine. Solid waste used as a catalyst to treat wastewater is a feasible solution to achieve "waste treating waste", but its treatment efficiency needs to be further improved. This study used waste copper tailings (CT) as a catalyst and hydroxylamine (HA) as an intensifier to construct a new type of persulfate-based advanced oxidation process (CT/HA/PS) to achieve continuous and efficient degradation of organic pollutants. The introduction of HA significantly increased the degradation efficiency of organic pollutants in wastewater. Besides, the presence of HA increased the TOC removal efficiency from 32.55% to 68.26%, and the cyclic degradation efficiency increased from 43.7% to 87.41%. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation and experiments together confirmed that HA not only enhanced the adsorption efficiency of CT and the utilization of PS, but also accelerated the Fe(III)/Fe(II) and Cu(II)/Cu(I) cycling on the CT surface, thereby generating more SO 4 -. XPS analysis suggested that the sulfides on CT surface also provided active sites for PS activation. More importantly, the concentration of metal elements leached from CT is negligible and will not cause secondary pollution. Therefore, this research not only proposes a new type of advanced oxidation process that efficiently degrading organic pollutants in wastewater, but also a new possible way of resource utilization and stabilization of tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The meteorological conditions determine snow evolutions on and around buildings. Those climatic impacts have been independently considered in the current design codes of buildings, namely the wind pressure and the snow load. But snow load estimates are only based on precipitation assessments without considering the joint effect of wind and snow precipitation which lead to wind dominated deposition and snow transport. Thus, the statistics-based data provided by those building codes seem practically inadequate or at least incomplete. Using the data provided by upper-air and ground meteorological stations in northern China, including snowfall, wind velocity, and temperature, as indicators, we propose a series of statistical relationships covering aspects of snow precipitation and snow drifting. For those meteorological indicators that can affect building snow evolutions, more detailed analyses on their spatial and temporal changes have been achieved. The regionalization of snow precipitation features in northern China has also been proposed based on the clustering analysis on meteorological joint effects. The result shows that the snowfall in most northern regions of China is generally not heavy and in the form of a uniform deposition. The wind dominated depositions around buildings are more likely to appear in the regions around the Bohai Sea. • The simultaneousness of wind and precipitation in the snow load code is considered. • Climate impacts on snow evolutions on roofs are assessed via meteorological methods. • Regionalization of snow deposition features in northern China is acquired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Glycyrrhiza is a small perennial herb that has been traditionally used to treat many diseases across the world. Licorice (Gancao in Chinese) is the dried root and rhizome of G. glabra , G. uralensis or G. inflata. Licorice plays an important role in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and is the most frequently used in Chinese herbal formulas. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a flavonoid extracted from licorice, and has been evaluated for its various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-oxidant activities. Excessive and persistent inflammation in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection is not conducive to the elimination of Mtb, but contributes to serious pulmonary dysfunction. This study aimed to examine the anti-inflammatory effects of ISL in the Mtb infection. In vitro models of Mtb-infected macrophages were established. Murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells and primary peritoneal macrophages were used in this study. Cell viability was determined by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The effects of ISL on the secretion levels of interleukin -1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α), and interleukin −6 (IL-6) were detected by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) were measured by the real time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. Western blot was used to assess the effects of ISL on the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. Immunofluorescence assays was used to detected the translocation of phosphorylation of p65 subunit of NF-κB. It was revealed that ISL inhibited the secretion of IL-1β and the activation of pore-forming protein (gasdermin D, GSDMD) by suppressing the activation of NLPR3 inflammasome induced by Mtb infection. ISL was also shown to have promising inhibitory effects on inflammatory factors, such as TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS and COX2. Regarding the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ISL, it was found that ISL exerted its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. ISL reduced Mtb-induced inflammation through the Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways. ISL might be used as a potential adjuvant drug to treat tuberculosis by adjusting host immune responses. [Display omitted] • Isoliquiritigenin is a flavonoid from licorice, which is mainly used to treat respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. • Isoliquiritigenin exerted its anti-inflammatory effects by Notch1/NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways in Mtb infection. • Isoliquiritigenin might be used as a potential adjuvant drug to treat tuberculosis by adjusting host immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A modified Eulerian method for snowdrifts was proposed by introducing the snow particle capture efficiency. The relationships between the modified method and the previous methods were discussed, the results showed that the previous methods are special cases of the modified method. Based on the modified method, the impacts of the location and the height of the interfering building on the snow distribution on the target building were studied. The location of the interfering building seriously affects the snow distribution on the roof of the target building. Four typical interference modes were found through simulations. Significant interference effects on snow load occur when the interfering building is higher than the target building, and it becomes more powerful with the increase of the height of the interfering building. • A modified erosion and deposition model is proposed, introducing the capture efficiency of the falling snow phase. • The Impacts of the location of the interfering building on the snow distribution on the target building are investigated. • The Impacts of the height of the interfering building on the snow distribution on the target building are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study conducted experiments on the wind-induced snow drifting around two adjacent cube models, using artificial snow in an open air snow-wind combined experimental facility constructed at the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT). In particular, 20 experiments were conducted on two adjacent cubes with three different wind directions, three different wind speeds, and four different spacings. They were compared with contrast experiments with a single cube under the same inflow condition. The cube models were two wooden cubes having dimensions of 0.5 × 0.5 × 0.5 m. The drift process of natural snowfall was simulated by scattering snow particles. After snowfall for 25 min in each experiment, the snowdrifts were measured by surveying approximately 300 points around the cubes. Contour maps of the normalized snow depths were drawn and analyzed. The experiments show that the wind direction and speed have a certain influence on a snowdrift. Based on the wind-snow movement mechanism, the relationship between the snowdrift pattern around two cubes and the snowdrift pattern around a single cube was explored. Under the same condition, the snowdrift pattern around the multiple cubes can be deduced from the snowdrift pattern around the single cube. The snowdrift pattern around the downstream cube depends on its spatial position relative to the upstream cube. Moreover, the snowdrift between two adjacent cubes seems to be dependent on a funneling effect. • The process of wind-induced snow drifting was simulated by scattering artificial snow particles in an open air snow-wind combined experimental facility. • The influence of wind direction and wind speed on the snowdrift pattern around the cubes was studied. • Based on wind-snow movement mechanism, the relationship between snowdrift pattern around two cubes and snowdrift pattern around single cube was explored. Under the same conditions, the snowdrift pattern around the multiple cubes can be deduced from the snowdrift pattern around the single cube. • The effect of funneling has a profound effect on the snowdrift pattern between two adjacent cubes. • The snowdrift pattern around the downstream cube depends on its spatial position relative to the upstream cube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Ephemeral gullies or rills are major sediment sources and the primary channel to convey runoff and sediments from hillslopes. Quantifying the detachment rate is important for understanding the erosion process of ephemeral gullies. This study suggests a method to estimate the detachment rate for use in WEPP model, using sediment distribution data along an eroding rill or ephemeral gully under controlled flume experiments, conducted at four slope gradients (8.74%, 17.62%, 26.78%, and 36.38%) and four flow rates (32, 64, 128 and 256 L min −1 ). The experimental soil materials were packed into the flume of 0.5 m wide, 0.6 m deep and 12 m long, to a thickness of 0.5 m at a bulk density of 1300 kg m −3 . Regulated water flow was introduced to soil surface at the upper end of flumes. The detachment rate was calculated from the spatial distribution data of sediment concentrations measured with sediment-laden water samples simultaneously taken along the gullies at one meter intervals. Results showed that the detachment rate was well fitted with downslope distance along the rill or ephemeral gully by an exponential equation. The regression parameters indicated that detachment rate decreases linearly with sediment load in the gully flow. The feedback relationship between sediment load and detachment rate in rill or ephemeral gullies could be adequately represented by the first-order coupling equation for loess soil under steep slopes and high flow rates. The detachment rates along the rills or ephemeral gullies were found to increase with slope gradient and flow rate and the detachment rate was positively related to unit stream power and the deficit between max sediment load and the local sediment load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the interference effects of building groups with flat roofs on snow load, a modified Eulerian-Eulerian model was proposed and verified by three typical cases. Based on the verified model, the impact of wind velocity on snow distribution on an isolated building with a flat roof was discussed first, and then a series of CFD simulations were carried out to investigate the snow distribution on building groups with the regular and staggered arrangement. The results showed that the amount of snow on the isolated building decreases significantly with the increase of wind velocity. The critical building density of the building group with the regular and staggered arrangement is about 0.25, above which the interference effects of the building groups on snow load are not significant. The interference effects of the building groups with the staggered arrangement on snow load are weaker than that of the building group with the regular arrangement. • A modified Eulerian model of snowdrift is proposed and verified. • The snow distribution on the isolated building is sensitive to wind velocity. • The interference effects on snow load are significant when building density is high. • The interference effects on snow load are seriously affected by building arrangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rapid detection of hormones at sub-ng/ml concentrations is of tremendous importance for diagnostic purposes, quality control, and environmental monitoring. In this respect, we report a novel label-free biosensor based on hydrogel optical waveguide spectroscopy (HOWS) for the sensitive detection of 17β-estradiol (E2). This approach was implemented by using a thin hydrogel layer of a carboxylated poly(N-isoproprylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) terpolymer that was attached to a metallic sensor surface in order to simultaneously serve as a binding matrix and an optical waveguide. Refractive index changes that are accompanied with the specific capture of biomolecules from an aqueous sample on the sensor surface were probed by resonantly excited hydrogel optical waveguide modes. To optically excite and interrogate these waves, an optical setup based on Kretschmann configuration of attenuated total reflection (ATR) method that is compatible with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was used. We demonstrate that HOWS offers a higher binding capacity, good anti-fouling properties, improved figure of merit, and E2 detection limit of 50pg/ml which is seven times better than that obtained by a regular surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chemical N input is essential for high rice yields. However, low recovery efficiency of chemical fertilizer N with flooding irrigation in the anthropogenic-alluvial soil resulted in N lost from the rice field in Ningxia Irrigation Region in the upper reaches of the Yellow River. With the technique of stable isotope 15N-traced urea, we conducted two years experiment to estimate the recovery efficiency and loss of applied chemical fertilizer in a rice field. The three fertilizer N treatments included 300kgha−1 (N300, the conventional application rate), 240kgha−1 (the optimized N application amount, N240) and no N fertilizer application treatment (CK). We estimated the recovery of 15N-labelled urea in grain, straw and root of rice and residues in soil profile. The 15N not accounted for in the plant and soil was presumably lost. The results showed that more efficient use of N fertilizer could allow current N application rates to reduce by 20%. This would still maintain crop yields while substantially reducing N losses to the environment. The high N fertilizer application increased the N uptake by rice derived from fertilizer, and the amount of N rice taken up from soil reduced correspondingly, which resulted in the higher N surplus in soil. Under the conventional irrigation and fertilizer management level, the recovery rate of 15N-labelled urea in rice–soil system was about 48–49%. The 15N-labelled fertilizer recovery in rice plant (N dff ) was 26–30%. In the paddy soil profiles of 0–90cm, the residual of 15N-labelled fertilizer in soil (N dfs) were 54–70kgha−1, and N residual rate in soils were 18–23%. The annual N loss from the rice field in the Irrigation Region was 28,865tons. The distribution of 15N abundance variability in different soil profile indicated that fertilizer N leached into the deep soil layers along with irrigation water as a result of continuous yearly rice planting. Optimization of nitrogen fertilizer can significantly reduce the amount of N residuals and N loss from the paddy field. Compared with N300, optimized nitrogen fertilizer application could decrease the loss of fertilizer N by 22–34kgha−1, and reduce the amount of N surplus by 26–33kgha−1 while the dry matter of rice increased 8–15% and N uptake by rice increased 2–6%. Considering the high food production and the minimum environmental threat, we should fully take into account the optimization application by reducing fertilizer N inputs. However, the interaction between irrigation management and N application rate on N use efficiency in alkaline anthropogenic-alluvial soil needs to be further studied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rill erosion can be a serious problem on cultivated slopes. Understanding the mechanisms of the detachment process in eroding rills is important in developing and improving process-based erosion prediction models. The detachment rate, defined as the sediment amount detached from a unit area in a unit time, is a crucial parameter in most physical erosion prediction models. Most current studies on rill detachment rates use spatially averaged soil erosion data, which provides little information about soil erosion dynamics due to the lack of spatially distributed, contemporaneous rill erosion data. The objective of this study was to estimate the net detachment rate in eroding rills using a rare earth element (REE) tracing method. Flume experiments were conducted with ten REE oxides (Ho2O3, Tb4O7, Eu2O3, Yb2O3, Dy2O3, Sm2O3, La2O3, Tm2O3, CeO2, and Nd2O3) as tracers mixed with soil in different sections of five slopes (8.74%, 17.62%, 26.78%, 36.38%, and 46.6%) exposed to three water flow rates (2, 4, and 8 L min− 1). Regulated water flow was introduced to the upper end of flumes, 8 m long and 0.1 m wide, which were divided into 10 equal segments, each containing a different REE–soil mixture. The net detachment rate from each rill segment was calculated from the REE concentrations in the eroded and transported material. The detachment rates from different segments along the rills, at different slope gradients and flow rates, were compared with those estimated directly from previous studies, and were found to increase with increasing slope gradient and flow rate. Results also showed that the net rill detachment rates decreased linearly with an increase in sediment concentration, and decreased exponentially with an increase in rill length. The REE-derived detachment data and their relationship with sediment concentrations are consistent with the detachment function used in the WEPP model, and are helpful in understanding the processes of rill erosion. Using REEs to trace detachment rates in continuous rills is a valid and advantageous technique for estimating the spatial distribution of the rill detachment rates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We explore the process of modeling aeolian snow transport around buildings by proposing a set of similarity requirements on simulating a single snow fall event with drifting. The similarity criteria are used to guide our wind tunnel tests from the particle selection to the simulation set-up, including the determination of test wind speed, snowfall intensity and transported snow profile. In parallel, a specific field experiment on snow precipitation and drift around a 1-m prototype cube was achieved in Harbin to serve as the reference for the subsequent test validation. After reproducing a target wind and snow environment with a scale of 1:4 versus that of the prototype measurement, two verification tests were put forward using snow and substitution particles, which can mimic the effects of changing wind directions on the snow distribution. Herein, the wind tunnel and outside prototype results show good qualitative agreement in our limited range of length scales and particle properties. In future work, the range of scales and range of parameter values should be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unbalanced snow distribution is one of the main reasons for the collapse of multi-span arch roofs due to excessive snow loads in the valley and leeward areas. The formation of uneven snowdrifts is closely related to the shape of the building as it seriously affects the turbulent structure and snow drifting process. This study aims to investigate the snowdrift characteristics of multi-span arch roofs based on a multiphase snowdrift approach. Firstly, the prediction accuracy of the flow field is tested to select a reasonable turbulence model. Then, the reliability of this multiphase approach is validated by comparing the results with a wind tunnel experiment of snowdrifts on a multi-span arch roof. The result preliminarily proves that this approach could well reproduce the unbalanced snowdrift on each span roof and at the trough. The snowdrift characteristics of multi-span arch roofs are investigated under different rise/span ratio and span number conditions based on the validated approach. The formation mechanism and characteristics of snowdrifts on different roofs are clarified by analysis. Finally, several typical distribution patterns are derived based on the statistical analysis of results. It is found that the middle-span roof bears a larger snow load than the roofs at both ends. • The paper proposes a multiphase approach that could accurately predict the snowdrifts on arch roofs. • The multiphase approach could well reproduce the snow drifting process and the sliding effect at roof edge. • Two kinds of unbalanced triangular snow loads are formed on the single-span arch roof according to the rise/span ratio. • The stacking snow load at the trough of the multi-span roof is about twice the peak snow load of the single-span roof. • The middle-span arch roof bears a larger snow load than the roofs at both ends of the multi-span building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel equilibrium-based form-finding approach for a mega-latticed structure is presented based on vector-based 3D graphic statics and the Combinatorial Equilibrium Modelling (CEM). This approach can be effectively applied to the conceptual design phase of the structures with various design objectives under conservative loads. It allows us to adjust the design parameters in real time during the design phase and to obtain the resultant forms immediately. Based on a certain selection strategy, the forms have a better state of internal membrane forces compared to the original spherical structure. An ANSYS Parameter Design Language (APDL)-based automatic geometric modelling method for mega-latticed structures with various surface forms is developed. The proposed method solves the problem that the existing modelling methods are only available for spherical structures. It is highly applicable for modelling mega-latticed structures with spherical, cylindrical, and other heterogeneous surfaces. Furthermore, a complete design workflow that combines the proposed form-finding approach (for conceptual design), the automatic geometric modelling method (for transformation), and the finite element method (for deepening design and analysis), is discussed. This paper provides a reference for the design of mega-latticed structures and similar truss-based spatial structures. • A new equilibrium-based form-finding approach for a mega-latticed structure is proposed. • An automatic geometric modelling method for mega-latticed structures is improved. • A design workflow combining the form-finding approach and finite element method is discussed. • A case study is performed to verify the validity of the whole structural design process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide a multiphase approach that could better consider the snow drifting development on a building roof and then apply it to the investigation of the snowdrift development on a long-span spherical roof. Firstly, the CFD prediction accuracy for the flow field and the snowdrift on a two-level step building is examined by comparing simulated results with that of a field measurement. The windward snowdrift caused by building's blocking effect and trajectories of snow particles under the action of aerodynamic force and gravity are both well reproduced by incorporating an additional source term and a slip term into the transport equations. Secondly, the prediction accuracy of the snowdrift formed on a spherical roof is confirmed through the comparison with a wind tunnel test. The snow slipping effect at the edge of the roof is also well reproduced by considering the angle of repose of the snow. Based the validated approach, the snowdrift characteristics on a long-span spherical roof are investigated under different inflow velocity conditions. Three kinds of distribution patterns, i.e., the full-span balanced distribution, half-span unbalanced distribution and transitional distribution between them, are observed. Furthermore, the predicted results correspond well with the resultant design codes developed by ISO 4355. Finally, the size effect of the building roof on snowdrifts is explored by simulating the snowdrift on the spherical roofs with different spans. It is found that the spherical roof would have to bear a larger snow load with the increasing roof span, namely, the long-span spherical roof has more risks due to the adverse snow load. • The paper proposes a multiphase approach that could accurately predict the snowdrifts on long-span roofs. • The multiphase approach could well reproduce the motion of snow and the non-equilibrium drifting process. • Three typical snow distribution patterns on the spherical roof and their corresponding inflow velocities are specified. • The long-span spherical roof is more likely to experience the most adverse snow loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A hollow core-shell Cu(OH) 2 @Au@Co(OH) 2 composite is prepared by a simple template-engaged reaction. • The novel structure possesses highly enzymatic activity and long-term stability for glucose detection. • The sensor achieves comparable performance with commercial glucometer in serum test. A core-shell Cu(OH) 2 @Au@Co(OH) 2 nanocomposite with hollow nano-flower morphology fabricated by a facile and non-surfactant template-engaged reaction was applied for highly sensitive detection of glucose. The prussian blue analogues (PBA) of core-shell nanocubes (CuFe@Au@CoFe) were synthesized as the template through the accurate control of the reaction rate. In this nanocubes, Au nanoparticles for accelerating electron transfer rate were reduced at the interface of CoFe (core) and CuFe (shell) to improve their conductivity. These nanocubes were then etched controllably to form three-dimensional hollow nanoflowers stacked by nanosheets. It provided abundant electrode-electrolyte channels and high surface areas for OH− and glucoses adsorption and the following reactions. Due to the sandwich structure and synergic effect of the nanomaterials, the as-prepared sensors exhibited an ultrahigh sensitivity of 3427 μA mM-1 cm-2 for glucose detection, as well as a wide linear range of 0.001–5.2 mM with a low detection limit of 0.5 μM. In addition, the Cu(OH) 2 @Au@Co(OH) 2 nanocomposite showed long-term stability and good reproducibility for glucose detection in serum with comparable results as measured with commercial glucometer. We believe the nanocomposite provided a good candidate for glucometer in future clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A flexible electrode based on Ag nanowires and MIPs was prepared. • The electrode showed high electrochemical stability upon multiple bending/twisting. • The biosensor showed high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of lactate. • The wearable sensor realized the monitoring of the human sweat lactate in vivo. We proposed a wearable electrochemical biosensor based on Ag Nanowires (AgNWs) and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) prepared on the screen-printed electrode for the noninvasive monitoring of lactate in the human sweat. The MIPs were prepared by electropolymerization of 3-aminophenulboronic acid (3-APBA) with imprinted lactate molecule on the AgNWs-coated working electrode. The MIPs-AgNWs biosensor revealed high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of lactate from 10−6 M to 0.1 M, with the detection limit of 0.22 μM. Furthermore, the sensors presented high stability and reproducibility with sensitivity recovery of 99.8% ± 1.7% during 7 months storage in a dark plastic box at room temperature. In addition, the flexible electrodes also showed stable electrochemical response after been bended and twisted for 200 times, respectively. Such MIPs-AgNWs biosensor was attached on volunteers' skin for the noninvasive monitoring of the perspiration lactate in vivo. The wearable electrochemical biosensor provides feasibility in near future for the evaluation of human sweat in the military, sports and biomedical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heme-regulated inhibitor (HRI), a eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha (eIF2α) kinase, is critically important for coupling protein synthesis to heme availability in reticulocytes and adaptation to various environmental stressors in all cells. HRI modifies the severity of several hemoglobin misfolding disorders including β-thalassemia. Small molecule activators of HRI are essential for studying normal- and patho-biology of this kinase as well as for the treatment of various human disorders for which activation of HRI or phosphorylation of eIF2α may be beneficial. We previously reported development of 1-((1,4- trans)-4-aryloxycyclohexyl)-3-arylureas (cHAUs) as specific HRI activators and demonstrated their potential as molecular probes for studying HRI biology and as lead compounds for treatment of various human disorders. To develop more druglike cHAUs for in vivo studies and drug development and to expand the chemical space, we undertook bioassay guided structure–activity relationship studies replacing cyclohexyl ring with various 4-6-membered rings and explored further substitutions on the N- phenyl ring. We tested all analogs in the surrogate eIF2α phosphorylation and cell proliferation assays, and a subset of analogs in secondary mechanistic assays that included endogenous eIF2α phosphorylation and expression of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), a downstream effector. Finally, we determined specificity of these compounds for HRI by testing their anti-proliferative activity in cells transfected with siRNA targeting HRI or mock. These compounds have significantly improved cLogPs with no loss of potencies, making them excellent candidates for lead optimization for development of investigational new drugs that potently and specifically activate HRI. Image 1 • New eIF2α Kinase Heme-Regulated Inhibitor (HRI) activators with improved druglikeness. • New HRI activators with significantly improved cLogPs and no loss of potencies. • Mechanistic assays confirm they are targeting eIF2α phosphorylation by activating HRI. • These HRI activators are excellent first-in-class preclinical candidates for cancer therapy. • Extensive structure–activity relationship studies complement previous findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorination has proved to be an efficient method in tuning energy levels and optoelectronic properties of organic semiconducting materials with cheaper synthesis and low-cost raw materials when compared with the fluorinated analogues. Herein, in this work, 5-chlorobenzo[c][1,2,5]thiadizole (Cl-BT) unit was chosen as a new acceptor unit to design two new D-A type electrochromic conjugated polymer: P(Cl-T) and P(Cl-EDOT). The electrochemical behavior and electrochromic performances of above-mentioned chlorinated polymers were studied by electrochemical polymerization techniques and spectroelectrochemistry. Thanks to the strong electron-withdrawing ability of Cl-BT unit and the strong electron-donating properties of EDOT unit, the resultant Cl-EDOT precursor could electropolymerize into high quality hybrid polymer films at lower potential (0.71 V vs. Ag/AgCl) with favorable redox activity and better redox stability. Spectroelectrochemistry shown that as-formed lower band gaps P(Cl-EDOT) exhibits reversible color-changing nature from pale blue to gray accompanied with the moderate optical contrast (13.9%), fast response time (0.6 s), and favorable coloration efficiency (126.4 cm2 C−1) in the NIR region that was measured from the kinetic studies. By optimizing the tested electrolyte and solution, its electrochromic performance is further improved (optical contrast: 25.6%, response time: 0.25 s, coloration efficiency: 275.9 C−1 cm2). The favorable redox stability and electrochromic performance of P(Cl-EDOT) make it a good candidate to construct electrochromic device, and Cl-BT unit should be a promising building block in designing high performance near infrared electrochromic materials. [Display omitted] • Two electrochromic precursor based on 5-chlorobenzo[c][1,2,5]thiadizole unit were synthesized by Stille coupling reaction. • Different donor brings different influence on the photophysical properties of the chlorinated precursors and its polymers. • The introduction of EDOT unit is beneficial for the preparation of better-quality chlorinated polymers. • P(Cl-EDOT) exhibit better redox activity and stability, and satisfied electrochromic performances. • Chlorinated benzothiadiazole could be a promising building blocks in constructing high performance D-A conjugated polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the long-term impact of C-N management practices on soil moisture content (SMC) is crucial for sustainable agriculture, particularly in mitigating seasonal droughts and storm rainfall constraints. A multi-year (2014–2018) field experiment was conducted, with high-frequency measurements and consideration of a full life cycle, as well as multiple vertical layers (0–100 cm, with intervals of 20 cm). Treatments were arranged in a split plot design with nitrogen (N) fertilizer input (N 80% and N 60%) as the whole-plot factor, and Carbon (C) treatments (C org =organic fertilizer, C straw =straw mulching and full returning, C integ = C org + C straw) were considered as the split-plot factor. The results demonstrated the C integ treatment resulted in the highest increase in the five-year averaged SMC (approximately 6.60% greater than C org), followed by the C straw treatment. Additionally, the N60% treatment resulted in significantly higher SMC compared to the N80% treatment, with a range of 1.71–4.12% increase across the life cycle. Furthermore, the research revealed that the average SMC increased the most during the jointing-heading period and the least during the heading-maturity period across all treatments. The vertical results indicated a higher efficiency in water retention within the shallow layers (0–20 cm, 20–40 cm) compared to the deeper layers (80–100 cm) for all treatments. The study recommends adopting integrated C-N management practices, considering life cycle periods and vertical layers, to optimize soil moisture content. It offers valuable insights for optimizing soil moisture management strategies, alleviating seasonal droughts, enhancing water-use efficiency, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices. • Organic fertilizer integrated into straw returns increased average SMC by 5.5∼6.6% compared with separate applications. • N fertilizer at 144 kg/ha increased average SMC more (1.71%∼4.12%) than 192 kg/ha. • Average SMC increased most in the jointing-heading period and least in the heading-maturity period. • Shallow soil layers show a higher holding-water efficiency than deep soil layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study intended to evaluate the combined effects of both biochar and organic fertilizer on nitrous oxide (N 2 O) fluxes and composition of nitrifier and denitrifier of saline-alkali soil. Therefore, four different treatments such as CK (only chemical fertilizer), B (only biochar), M (only organic fertilizer), BM (B:M = 1:1) were used in this experiment. The results showed that N 2 O emissions were decreased in B and BM treatments compare to the control. In contrast, N 2 O emissions were highest before day 12 but lowest after day 19 in M treatment compare to the control. Application of biochar, organic fertilizer and biochar plus organic fertilizer decreased the nirS and nirK genes copies and enhanced the nosZ gene copies which resulting in the lower N 2 O fluxes. The ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) amoA and nirK genes copies were significantly increased by organic fertilizer before day 12, leading to high N 2 O emissions. The genera Nitrosospira (AOB) and Nitrososphaera (ammonia-oxidizing archaea, AOA) assumed absolute superiority. Additionally, Nitrosospira (AOB) was also appeared in nirK -type denitrifiers, illustrating denitrification was carried out by nitrifiers. The genera Azospirillum (nirS), Burkholderia (nosZ) and Polymorphum (nosZ) were dominant in CK. There was only one dominant genus, Mesorhizobium (nosZ) in the B treatment. The genera Mesorhizobium (nirK), Azoarcus (nirS), Kocuria (nirS) and Pseudomonas (nosZ) occupied the main status in the M treatment. The relative abundance of Rhodanobacter (nirS) and Azospirillum (nosZ) were higher in the BM treatment compared with other treatments. Soil water content (SWC), pH, NH 4 +-N and NO 3 −-N were the main factors affecting AOB and denitrifiers, which influencing N 2 O emissions. Overall, combined application of biochar and organic fertilizer can reduce the N 2 O emission where AOB and nirK -type denitrifier were the main contributors to the N 2 O emission. Unlabelled Image • Combined application of biochar and organic fertilizer decreased the N 2 O emission. • Biochar plus organic fertilizer decreased the nirS and enhanced the nosZ abundances. • The genus Nitrosospira was the main contributor for N 2 O emission. • SWC, pH, NH 4 +-N and NO 3 −-N were the main factors affecting AOB and denitrifiers, and then influencing N 2 O emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract The cumulative N 2 O emissions of CK, C1, C2, and SR treatments during the maize/wheat growing seasons of 2013–2014 (a) and 2014–2015 (b). Highlights • Low doses of biochar addition increased N 2 O emission. • High doses of biochar addition reduced N 2 O emission. • Biochar increased soil pH and the abundances of ammonia oxidizers and denitrifying genes. • Straw return increased N 2 O emission. • Application of biochar, instead of straw return, is a more optimum agricultural strategy in the wheat-maize system. Abstract To evaluate long-term effects of biochar addition and straw return (SR) on N 2 O fluxes in wheat-maize rotation system, a 2-year field experiment following a 7-year biochar addition and SR was investigated in an intensively managed agricultural soil in the North China Plain (NCP). Four treatments were included: 1) no biochar addition (CK); 2) biochar treatment with 4.5 t ha−1 yr−1 (C1); 3) biochar treatment with 9.0 t ha−1 yr−1 (C2); and 4) all the wheat/maize straw return (SR). The results showed the annual cumulative N 2 O emissions from C1 treatment were increased by 15.9–16.5%, while C2 treatment suppressed the annual cumulative N 2 O emissions by 22.8–26.3%. In comparison, straw return suppressed N 2 O emissions by 13.4–43.6% in the wheat season but increased N 2 O emissions remarkably by 45.3–53.9% in the maize season. Biochar addition enhanced the copies of AOA, AOB, nirK , nirS , and nosZ genes, while straw return decreased the copies of AOB, nirK , nirS , and nosZ genes at the high N 2 O emission period in the maize season. The production of N 2 O in the maize season was mainly driven by the AOB and nosZ genes, and by AOB gene in the wheat season. These results suggest that application of 9.0 t ha−1 yr−1 biochar is a more optimum agricultural strategy for reducing N 2 O emission in the wheat-maize system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Three data driven models with nine input combinations are proposed for estimation of E pan. • A national-scale assessment of data driven models along with SS and PenPan models are performed. • ELM model with complete input has the best accuracy. • Air temperature is the most sensitive parameter to data driven models. Abstract Evaporation is an essential component in hydrological processes, and accurate estimation of evaporation is of importance for sustainable management of water resources. This study conducted a national-scale assessment of different models for pan evaporation (E pan) estimation at 178 meteorological stations across different climatic zones of China, including the temperate continental zone (TCZ), temperate monsoon zone (TMZ), mountain plateau zone (MPZ) and subtropical monsoon zone (SMZ). Firstly, three data-driven models, including extreme learning machine (ELM), artificial neural networks optimized by particle swarm optimization (PSO-ANN) and genetic algorithm (GA-ANN), were trained with nine input combinations of climatic variables. The performance of the 27 proposed models along with the empirical Stephens and Stewart (SS) and physically-based PenPan models were investigated and compared using relative root mean square error (RRMSE), Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient (NS) and mean absolute error (MAE). The three statistical indicators were further normalized to global performance indicator (GPI), by which all the evaluated models can be easily ranked. The results showed that the data-driven models with complete inputs generally obtained more accurate E pan estimation, where the ELM model with full input data provided the best accuracy, with average RRMSE of 12.5%–15.2%, NS of 0.909–0.936 and MAE of 11.7–19.9 mm/m. Air temperature was found to be the most influential parameter to data-driven models, followed by sunshine duration , wind speed and relative humidity. The SS model provided slightly better results in MPZ and TCZ, and slightly less accurate results in SMZ and TMZ, compared with the data-driven models under the same input conditions. Overall, ELM was recommended as the best model for E pan estimation when all the selected climatic data are available, while temperature-based PSO-ANN is recommended in MPZ and SMZ and temperature-based GA-ANN is recommended in TCZ and TMZ when the other climatic data are missing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a smartphone label-free biosensor platform based on grating-coupled surface plasmon resonance (GC-SPR). The sensor system relies on the smartphone's built-in flash light source and camera, a disposable sensor chip with Au diffraction grating and a compact disk (CD) as the spectra dispersive unit. The Au grating sensor chip was modified with a synthetic peptide receptor and employed on the GC-SPR detection of lipopolysaccharides (known as endotoxins) with detection limit of 32.5 ng/mL in water. Upon incubation of various small and macro-molecules with the synthetic peptide modified sensor chips, we concluded the good selectivity of the sensor for LPS detection. In addition, the sensor shows feasibility for the detection of LPS in commonly used clinical injectable fluids, such as clinical-grade 0.9% sodium chloride intravenous infusion, compound sodium lactate intravenous infusion and insulin aspart. The developed sensor platform offers the advantage of portability and simplicity, which is attractive for point-of-care and remote detection of biomedical and environmental targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate diffuse solar radiation (H d ) data is highly crucial for the development and utilization of solar energy technologies. However, due to expensive cost and technology requirements, measurements of H d are not available in many regions of North China Plain (NCP), where the diffuse and direct solar radiation are affected by severe particulate pollution. Thus, development of models for precisely estimating H d is indeed essential in NCP. On this account, the present studies proposed four artificial intelligence models, including the extreme learning machine (ELM), backpropagation neural networks optimized by genetic algorithm (GANN), random forests (RF), and generalized regression neural networks (GRNN), for estimating daily H d at two meteorological stations of NCP. Daily global solar radiation and sunshine duration along with the estimated extraterrestrial radiation and maximum possible sunshine duration were selected as model inputs to train the models. Meanwhile, the proposed AI models were compared with the empirical Iqbal model to test their performance using measured H d data. The results indicated that the ELM, GANN, RF, and GRNN models all performed much better than the empirical Iqbal model for estimating daily H d . All the models underestimated H d for both stations, with average relative error ranging from −5.8% to −5.4% for AI models and 19.1% for Iqbal model in Beijing, −5.9% to −4.3% and −26.9% in Zhengzhou, respectively. Generally, GANN model had the best accuracy, and ELM ranked next, followed by RF and GRNN models. The ELM model had a slightly poorer performance but the highest computation speed, and both the GANN and ELM models could be highly recommended to estimate daily H d in NCP of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In-situ real-time detection of drug metabolites and biomolecules in hospitalized patients' urine helps the doctors to monitor their physiological indicators and regulate the use of drug doses. In this work, nitrogen-doped carbon-supported bimetal was prepared into the screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) and applied for real-time monitoring of acetaminophen (AC) and dopamine (DA) in urine. Via one-step pyrolysis of the core-shell cubic precursor (Cu 3 [Co(CN) 6 ] 2 @Co 3 [Co(CN) 6 ] 2 , CuCo@CoCo), the nitrogen-doped carbon-supported bimetal (CuCo-NC) was formed. The bimetal composites presented twice higher catalytic activity than the counterparts with single metal. In addition, the nanocomposites exhibited strong conductivity after pyrolysis, promoting electron transport efficiency as indicated by impedance measurements. Accordingly, the CuCo-NC based sensor offered excellent sensitivity with the detection limits down to 50 nM and 30 nM at the detection range of 0.1–400 μM and 0.2–200 μM for detection of AC and DA, respectively. Finally, in combination with a miniaturized electrochemical device, the sensor was applied for in-situ real-time monitoring of AC and DA in the urinary bag for up to 12h. As compared with other techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography, UV-spectrophotometry and fluorescence spectrometer, the biosensor demonstrated the advantages of real-time monitoring, easy operation and excellent portability. However, the multi-component detection and self-calibration function need to be further developed. This method paves a way for the continuous monitoring of drug metabolites and biomolecules of hospitalized patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut microbial β-glucuronidases (GUSs) inhibition is a new approach for managing some diseases and medication therapy. However, the structural and functional complexity of GUSs have posed tremendous challenges to discover specific or broad-spectrum GUSs inhibitors using Escherichia coli GUS (Eco GUS) alone. This study first assessed the effects of twenty-one dietary flavones employing three Loop 1-type GUSs of different taxonomic origins, which were considered to be the main GUSs involved in deglucuronidation of small molecules, on p -nitrophenyl- β -D-glucuronide hydrolysis and a structure-activity relationship is preliminarily proposed based on both in vitro assays and a docking study with representative compounds. Eco GUS and Staphylococcus pasteuri GUS showed largely similar inhibition propensities with potencies positively correlating with the total hydroxyl groups and those at ring B of flavones, while docking results revealed strong interactions developed via ring A and/or C. Streptococcus agalactiae GUS (Saga GUS) exhibited distinct inhibition propensities, displaying late-onset inhibition and steep dose-response profiles with most tested compounds. The α-helix in loop 1 region of Saga GUS which causes spatial hindrance but offers a hydrophobic surface for contacting with the carbonyl group on ring C of flavones is believed to be essential for the allosteric inhibition of Saga GUS. Taken together, the study with a series of flavones revealed varied preferences for GUSs belonging to the same Loop 1-type, highlighting the necessity of adopting multi-GUSs instead of Eco GUS alone for screening broad-spectrum GUSs inhibitors or tailoring the inhibition based on specific GUS structure. • Three Loop 1 GUSs showed different inhibitory propensities via distinct mechanisms. • Eco GUS and Spas GUS inhibition correlates positively with B ring OH group of flavones. • Loop-1 α-helix of Saga GUS mainly accounts for steep-slope incomplete inhibition. • Docking study revealed primary interactions between GUSs and ring A/C of flavones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the wearable electrochemical biosensors, sensing signal duration is significantly dependent on the long-term stability of functional materials modified on the flexible substrate, the effect of pH changes of sweat on the sensing device and signal fluctuation caused by the bending of sensor. Here, we proposed a wearable biosensor based on the lactate-sensing membrane mainly constituted by Prussian blue (PB), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), Au nanoparticles and lactate oxidase (LOx). Based on the in-situ layer-by-layer spin-coating preparation method, the electrode surface was covered with an extensive and uniform PB/GO membrane with a high stability. After the electro-reduction of GO to rGO and the combination of urchin-like Au particles with sufficient tentacles to LOx, the sensing membrane showed the improved electron transport from the enzyme active center to the electrode. Therefore, the wearable biosensor achieved a high sensitivity of 40.6 μA mM−1 cm−2 in a range of 1–222 μM and a low sensitivity of 1.9 μA mM−1 cm−2 in a wide range of 0.222–25 mM, satisfying the requirement of the typical test. In addition, with the excellent running and mechanical stability, the lactate biosensor was successfully applied on volunteers' skin for real-time monitoring of perspiration in vivo. The results were comparable with ex vivo measurements achieved by a commercial lactate sensor. The wearable electrochemical biosensor provides a good candidate in the future for the evaluation of human sweat in sports and biomedical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research around sport-related concussion (SRC) has made great advances during the twenty-first century. However, few studies have systematically analyzed the published SRC research. A bibliometric analysis was conducted of data from articles from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze publication trends, most productive countries, institutions, authors, journals, research fields, and references with the highest citation number. VOSviewer software was used to perform network visualization and keywords co-occurrence analysis. CiteSpace software was used to perform reference co-citation analysis. 1) The number of publications and number of citations of research in SRC progressively increased between 2000 and 2021; 2) the United States was the leading country in research in SRC; 3) extensive cooperation among countries, institutions, and investigators was prevalent in SRC research; 4) P. McCrory, M. McCrea, and K.M. Guskiewicz were the 3 most prolific and influential authors; 5) research in SRC involved multidisciplinary perspectives and approaches; 6) research in SRC mainly covered aspects of primary prevention, diagnosis, and management, and the latter two have gained more attention in recent years; and 7) specific questions about "education," "predictors," "youth," "exercise," "reliability," "validity," and "baseline" were the research frontiers of SRC. Attention to research in SRC has rapidly increased in recent years. Our work is a holistic overview that summarizes the hotspots, frontiers, and prospects of SRC, thus providing valuable information and guidance concerning research directions for those who are interested in or are dedicated to SRC research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Ephemeral gully erosion is an important form of hillslope erosion all over the world. It is of high significance to understand its erosion mechanism. Objective A new volume replacement method is proposed to determine ephemeral gully erosion process. Styrofoam particles of hard granules were used to refill the eroded ephemeral gully sections lined with gauze sheet to the original elevation, before their volumes were measured for estimating sediment concentration distribution along the ephemeral gully. The measurement and the computational methodologies are illustrated in details. Method A series of flume experiments were conducted with a silt loam (loess) soil to study ephemeral gully erosion process under four slope gradients and three flow rates. The ephemeral gully was pre-formed before each experimental run. The volumes of the eroded ephemeral gully sections were measured and the distribution of sediment concentration along the gully was computed at 1 m intervals. For comparison purpose, the sediment concentration distribution along the eroded gully was also measured by manual sampling of the sediment-laden water flow with cups. Results The results showed that both the sediment processes estimated by the volume replacement and measured by the sampling method were very similar. The estimated and measured sediment concentrations increased with ephemeral gully length under a given flow rate. The increase rate decreased gradually as the sediment concentration gradually approached its limit. Conclusions Under different flow rates and slope gradients, the sediment concentrations at different distances, as estimated by the volume replacement method were about the same as those measured with the sampling method. The new method provides a useful and efficient way in determining the ephemeral gully erosion, and helps to understand ephemeral gully erosion process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aggregation of transactive response deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP-43) into ubiquitin-positive inclusions is closely associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal lobar degeneration, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The 370–375 fragment of TDP-43 (370GNNSYS375, TDP-43 370-375), the amyloidogenic hexapeptides, can be prone to forming pathogenic amyloid fibrils with the characteristic of steric zippers. Previous experiments reported the ALS-associated mutation, serine 375 substituted by glycine (S375G) is linked to early onset disease and protein aggregation of TDP-43. Based on this, it is necessary to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. By utilizing all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of 102 μs in total, we investigated the impact of S375G mutation on the conformational ensembles and oligomerization dynamics of TDP-43 370-375 peptides. Our replica exchange MD simulations show that S375G mutation could promote the unstructured conformation formation and induce peptides to form a loose packed oligomer, thus inhibiting the aggregation of TDP-43 370-375. Further analyses suggest that S375G mutation displays a reduction effect on the number of total hydrogen bonds and contacts among TDP-43 370-375 peptides. Hydrogen bonding and polar interactions among TDP-43 370-375 peptides, as well as Y374-Y374 π-π stacking interaction, are attenuated by S375G mutation. Additional microsecond MD simulations demonstrate that S375G mutation could prohibit the conformational conversion to β-structure-rich aggregates and possess an inhibitory effect on the oligomerization dynamics of TDP-43 370-375. This study offers for the first time of molecular insights into the S375G mutation affecting the aggregation of TDP-43 370-375 at the atomic level, and may open new avenues in the development of future site-specific mutation therapeutics. [Display omitted] • S375G mutation alters the distribution of free energy landscape of TDP-43 370-375 peptides. • S375G mutation possesses an inhibitory effect on the H-bonds formation. • S375G mutation results in a weaker Y374-Y374 π-π stacking interaction. • S375G mutation displays an inhibitory effect on the oligomerization dynamics of TDP-43 370-375. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two new D-π-A-π-D type monomers based on mono-chlorinated benzothiadiazole acceptor unit were synthesized. • Types of donor units caused significant effects on the photophysical properties of the chlorinated monomers and its polymers. • Lower oxidation potential of Cl-EDOT was beneficial for the chlorinated polymer's optoelectronic properties. • Lower band gaps P(Cl-EDOT) revealed favorable redox activity and stability, reversible electrochromic nature, and outstanding electrochromic performances. • Chlorinated benzothiadiazole could be a promising building block in designing high-performance D-A electrochromic polymers. Chlorinated benzothiadiazole (Cl-BT) unit, as a new type of electron-accepting building block with the advantages of easy large-scale synthesis in high yields, has been found to be very promising in designing high performance electroactive polymers with decent optoelectronic properties. Most recently, the Cl-BT unit-based D-A polymers have been applied in many organic electronic devices, but little attention was paid to their electrochromic applications. Herein, in this work, to further evaluate the electrochromic performances of the Cl-BT unit-based chlorinated D-A polymers, two new D-π-A-π-D type chlorinated monomers (Cl-Th and Cl-EDOT) which using mono-chlorinated benzothiadiazole unit as the acceptor unit and thiophene/3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) as the donor unit, was successfully synthesized by Stille coupling reaction and then yield their corresponding chlorinated polymer films (P(Cl-Th) and P(Cl-EDOT)) by electrochemical deposition method. Due to the stronger electron donor ability of EDOT unit, the monomer Cl-EDOT has red-shifted UV–Vis and emission spectra and more significant Stoke's shifts. The lower oxidation potential of Cl-EDOT was very beneficial for improving its resultant D-A chlorinated polymer's optoelectronic properties. As a result, as-formed lower band gap P(Cl-EDOT) (∼1.31 eV) showed reversible color change from the neutral dark green to the oxidized dark blue accompanied with outstanding electrochromic properties, including high optical contrast (24.3%), speedy response time (0.6 s), and high coloration efficiency (170.8 cm2/C), as well as favorable redox stability (70% activity retention after 1000 cycles). The favorable electrochromic performances and good optical stability of P(Cl-EDOT) make it a promising candidate in electrochromic devices. Overall, the chlorinated benzothiadiazole and its derivatives were promising building blocks in constructing high-performance D-A electrochromic polymers. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colon cancer ranks among the most prevalent malignancies worldwide, trailing only lung and breast cancer in incidence. Despite the availability of numerous therapeutic strategies, the burden of new cases and fatalities remains high in countries undergoing socioeconomic transitions. Natural products offer promising avenues for developing more effective and less toxic anticancer agents, expanding the clinical arsenal. In this investigation, we isolated a triterpenoid, (21 S,23 R,24 R)-21,23-epoxy-24-hydroxy-21-methoxytirucalla-7,25-dien-3-one (EHMT), from the fruits of Melia azedarach L., which exhibited significant inhibitory activity against colon cancer cells while sparing normal cells. EHMT effectively curtailed colony formation and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the HCT116 cell line. Furthermore, EHMT prompted the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential. Notably, EHMT treatment triggered ROS-mediated cell apoptosis via activation of the JNK signaling pathway in HCT116 cells. Additionally, our findings extended to Caenorhabditis elegans , where EHMT induced ROS accumulation and apoptosis. Collectively, these findings position EHMT as a promising candidate for the development of anticancer agents in the treatment of colon cancer, offering new hope in the battle against this formidable disease. [Display omitted] (21 S ,23 R ,24 R)-21,23-epoxy-24-hydroxy-21-methoxytirucalla-7,25-dien-3-one (EHMT) was isolated from the fruit of M. azedarach L. EHMT caused ROS generation and induces apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro, triggered ROS-modulated cell apoptosis associated with JNK signaling pathway activation in colon cancer cells. • Natural products represent the biggest source of small molecules, providing a great potential to develop new anticancer agents. • EHMT, a novel anit-cancer triterpenoid isolated from Melia azedarach L. fruits, triggers ROS-modulated cell apoptosis and activates the JNK signaling pathway in colon cancer cells. • EHMT demonstrates a pronounced ability to inhibit the proliferation of colon cancer cells while exerting minimal impact on normal colon cells. • The findings in this study shed light on the potential of EHMT as a promising candidate for colon cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 3-year field study was conducted to examine the effects of continuous application of biochar and organic fertilizer on global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) as well as crop yield in a saline-alkali farmland of northern China. Six treatments were included: 1) control (only chemical fertilizer with N200 kg ha−1 yr–1 and P 2 O 5 120 kg ha−1 yr–1, CK); 2) biochar at 5.0 t ha–1 yr–1 (C1); 3) biochar at 10.0 t ha–1 yr–1 (C2); 4) biochar at 20.0 t ha–1 yr–1 (C3); 5) organic fertilizer at 7.5 t ha–1 yr–1 (M1); and 6) organic fertilizer at 10.0 t ha–1 yr–1 (M2). Biochar and organic fertilizer treatments were adjusted to the same N and P level as the control by supplemented urea and diammonium phosphate. The results showed that both biochar and organic fertilizer reduced the annual average emissions of CH 4 , N 2 O and ecosystem respiration (R e), but the emissions from the biochar treatments were lower than those from the organic fertilizer treatments. Biochar but not organic fertilizer increased the maize and wheat yields. Both biochar and organic fertilizer increased the soil carbon (C) storage and the net ecosystem carbon budget (NECB). The ΔSOCs of biochar and organic fertilizer treatments were increased by 9.1%–16.5% and 5.0%–5.8%, respectively, compared with the control (1.21 t C ha−1 yr−1). The mean annual net GWPs of biochar and organic fertilizer treatments were decreased by 282.5%–365.0% and 89.2%–110.0%, respectively, compared with the control (1.2 t CO 2 -eq ha−1 yr−1). The GHGIs were decreased by 266.7%–344.4% and 88.9%–110.0%, respectively, compared with the control (0.09 t CO 2 -eq ha−1 yr−1). The net GWPs and GHGIs were significantly lower in the C2 and C3 than other treatments, but there was no significant different between C2 and C3. The N 2 O emissions and ΔSOC contributed greatly to the net GWP, therefore, controlling soil N 2 O emissions and increasing soil C storage are key components of reducing net GWP and GHGI. In conclusion, application of biochar is an effective agricultural practice to improve soil quality, increase crop yield and reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions in the saline-alkali soil of northern China. • Continuous application of biochar and organic fertilizers could increase soil C storage. • Applying biochar and organic fertilizers reduced annual mean net GWP and GHGI. • The N 2 O flux and SOC were key factors for net GWP and GHGI in the saline-alkali soil. • Biochar application has a high potential for carbon neutral agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthraquinones naturally distribute in many plants including rhubarb and have widespread applications throughout industry and medicine. Recent studies provided new insights in potential applications of these traditional laxative constituents. Glucuronidation was the main metabolic pathway of rhubarb anthraquinones in vivo . This study examined the activity and regioselectivity of glucuronidation of rhubarb anthraquinones (aloe-emodin, emodin, chrysophanol, physcion, rhein) in liver and intestinal microsomes from rats and humans, by comparing with the core structure danthron. All anthraquinones formed mono-glucuronides and, except for rhein, the conjugation sites of the main metabolites were unambiguously identified. Two minor glucuronides of emodin were first reported together with the dominant emodin-3- O - β - d -glucuronide. The substitution on the anthraquinone ring was crucial to the activity and regioselectivity of glucuronidation. In general, the activity was decreased greatly with a β -COOH (rhein), while enhanced dramatically with a β -OH (emodin). Glucuronidation showed an absolute preference towards β -OH, followed by α -OH and β -alcoholic OH. The glucuronidation activity and regioselectivity also varied slightly with organs and species. All glucuronides of aloe-emodin, emodin, chrysophanol and physcion were formed by multiple human UGT isoforms with 1A9 being the most prominent in most cases. The UGT2B subfamily (2B7 and 2B15) only showed high activity towards a β -OH. In conclusion, the substitution at the anthraquinone ring was crucial to the rate and preference of glucuronidation. The high glucuronidation activity of UGT1A9 towards anthraquinones highlighted potential drug interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the N 2 O fluxes and community compositions of nitrifiers and denitrifiers in a winter wheat-summer maize rotation system on the North China Plain. The experiment included three treatments: 1) a control treatment (CK); 2) biochar at 10.0 t ha–1 yr−1 (C); and 3) organic fertilizer at 7.5 t ha−1 yr−1 (M). The application of biochar reduced the cumulative N 2 O emissions by 47.7% and 62.2% in the maize and wheat seasons, respectively, compared with those of the CK treatment. Organic fertilizer increased the cumulative N 2 O emissions by 311.1% in the maize season and had no significant effects on them in the wheat season. Organic fertilizer reduced the cumulative N 2 O emissions by 39.8% in the nonfertilizer period of the maize season. The cumulative N 2 O emissions in the maize season accounted for 75.2–90.0% of the annual emissions among all the treatments. Biochar and organic fertilizer affected soil N 2 O emissions mainly by changing soil denitrifiers. In the maize season, the lower abundances of Candidatus Nitrosoarchaeum (AOA- amoA), Nitrosomonas (AOB- amoA), Mesorhizobium (nirK), Magnetospirillum (nirS) and Halomonas (nirS) may result in lower N 2 O emissions in the biochar treatment, and organic fertilizer had a similar influencing mechanism on N 2 O emissions during the nonbasic fertilizer and nontopdressing periods of the maize season. In the wheat season, the dominant genus Alicycliphilus (nosZ) was the major contributor to decreasing N 2 O emissions in the biochar treatment, while there was no biomarker related to N 2 O emissions in the M treatment. The soil pH, NO 3 −-N content and water-filled pore space (WFPS) were the key factors shifting the community compositions of nitrifiers and denitrifiers in this study. The application of biochar could be a better practice to improve saline-alkali soil with lower N 2 O emissions. These findings will improve our understanding of the nitrifiers and denitrifiers response to biochar and organic fertilizer. [Display omitted] • Both biochar and organic fertilizer had potential to reduced N 2 O emissions. • The reduction of N 2 O was related to AOA, AOB, nirK / nirS and nosZ -type denitrifiers. • The two additives had similar mechanism on N 2 O in non-fertilization stage of maize. • Soil pH was the key factor affecting nitrifiers and denitrifiers communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]