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The objective of this study is to synthesize a series of sesamol-based phenolic acid derivatives, which were designed by combination principle. The hypolipidemic activity of all these compounds was preliminarily screened by acute hyperlipidemic mice model induced by Triton WR 1339, in which compound T6 exhibited more significant reducing plasma TG and TC than fenofibrate. Compound T6 was also found to obviously decrease TG and TC both in the plasma and hepatic tissue of high-fat-diet-induced hyperlipidemic mice. Moreover, T6 showed hepatoprotective effects, which remarkable amelioration in characteristic liver enzymes was examined and the histopathological observation displayed that compound T6 inhibited lipids accumulation in the hepatic. The levels of PPAR-α receptor related to lipids metabolism in hepatic tissue were upregulated after T6 treatment. Other potent effects of T6 such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity were also observed. On the bases of these findings, compound T6 may serve as an effective hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective agent.

Juvenile hormone (JH) absence induces photoperiod-mediated reproductive diapause, which is characterized by reproductive cessation. Although the role of methoprene-tolerant (Met)-mediated JH signaling in photoperiod-mediated female reproduction has been well documented, its role in male reproduction remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of JH in regulating photoperiod-mediated development of the male internal reproductive system (IRS) in the predatory ladybeetle Harmonia axyridis (Pallas). In a previous study, we found that adult male H. axyridis reared under either a short-day (SD) or long-day (LD) photoperiod had obvious differences in IRS development, but we were unable to identify the regulators of male reproductive diapause. In this study, we found that beetles reared under an SD photoperiod had significantly lower JH titer and a relatively undeveloped male IRS compared with those reared under an LD photoperiod. Additionally, application of the JH analog (JHA) methoprene promoted IRS development. Furthermore, Met knockdown strongly blocked JH signaling in males reared under the LD photoperiod, thereby slowing IRS development. Moreover, exogenous JHA did not reverse the suppressed development of the male IRS caused by Met knockdown. These results indicate that photoperiod regulates male IRS development in H. axyridis through a conserved Met-dependent JH signaling pathway.

Magnesium titanate was prepared directly through external coal reduction of seashore titanomagnetite concentrate and magnesium oxide (MgO). The effects of roasting temperature and the type and dosage of reductants on the purity of generated magnesium titanate particles were systematically investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy analyses were performed to characterize the magnesium titanate particles and observe their purity under different conditions. Results showed that the roasting temperature remarkably influenced the purity of magnesium titanate. At 1200, 1300, and 1400°C, some magnesium ferrite and magnesium aluminate spinel were dissolved in magnesium titanate. However, as the roasting temperature increased to 1500°C, relatively pure magnesium titanate particles were generated because no magnesium ferrite was dissolved in them. The type and dosage of the reductants also remarkably affected the purity of magnesium titanate. The amount of fine metallic iron disseminated in the magnesium titanate particles obviously decreased when lignite was used as a reductant at a dosage of 70wt%. Thus, high-purity magnesium titanate particles formed. At a roasting temperature of 1500°C and with 70wt% lignite, the magnesium titanate product with a yield of 30.63% and an iron content of 3.01wt% was obtained through magnetic separation.

By applying the mixed-ligand approach, a new Zn(II)-based coordination polymer (CP) formulated as {[Zn(L)(TBTA)(H2O)2]·H2O}n (1) has been successfully prepared by reaction of Zn(NO3)2·6H2O with the...

The trehalose, major blood sugar in insects, enhances stress resistance of diapausing individuals in adverse environment and provides an energy source for reproduction. Trehalose transporters (TRETs) play an important role in transport of trehalose from trehalose-producing tissues, e.g. fat body, to trehalose-consuming tissues. Although studies have shown that trehalose contributes to diapause and reproduction, the function of TRETs in these processes remains unclear. In this work, we cloned two TRET genes, TRET1a and TRET1b, from the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi, which is capable of entering reproductive diapause under long-day conditions. We also analyzed the expression profiles of these two genes and investigated their potential roles in diapause and reproduction. The results suggested that both TRET1a and TRET1b belong to sugar-transporter and major facilitator superfamilies. Interestingly, TRET1a was highly expressed in the fat bodies of diapause-destined (DD) females but TRET1b was predominantly expressed in the ovaries of non-diapause-destined (NDD) females. Hormonal induction indicated that juvenile hormone induced TRET1b but repressed TRET1a at transcriptional levels. Methoprene-tolerant and Kruppel homolog 1 mediated the JH-suppressed TRET1a expression but were not involved in the regulation of TRET1b expression by JH. RNAi of TRET1a in DD females elevated the trehalose content in the fat bodies and suppressed the expression of a couple of genes related to stress resistance, which is a critical diapause trait. Knockdown of TRET1b in NDD females reduced the trehalose content in the ovaries but had no apparent effect on the ovary development and yolk deposition. These data suggest that TRET1a and TRET1b could regulate the trehalose content in specific tissues and may play potential roles in reproductive diapause in the females of C. bowringi.

The Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis is an important predator of several agricultural pests, including aphids and whiteflies, and thus can contribute to pest management. Commercial viability as a pest control method requires that the beetle can be mass-reared, and that workable conditions for extended shelf-life can be guaranteed. One of the features of Harmonia's life cycle is that it enters diapause in the adult stage when the length of the photophase starts shortening in late summer. Reduction of juvenile hormone (JH) titer has been demonstrated to be the common endocrine mechanism inducing reproductive diapause in insects. However, whether H. axyridis enters diapause dependent on JH shutdown and how the JH level is regulated before diapause remains unknown.Like in other insects, the absence of JH triggers the induction and maintenance of reproductive diapause in H. axyridis, indicated by JH measurements and the knockdown of an intracellular JH receptor methoprene-tolerant (Met). Methoprene, a JH analog, significantly reversed diapause into reproduction via Met. Combined with RNA-sequencing and RNA interference, we also demonstrated that JH biosynthesis rather than the JH degradation pathway determines the reduction of JH titer in diapausing females.Our results reveal the vital role of JH in regulating reproductive diapause in female H. axyridis. Harmonia axyridis diapause could thus be manipulated by targeting JH production and JH signaling. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Eco-friendly alternative way for waste straw management is needed. Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) are outstanding insects for bioconversion of organic waste, which can convert separate or mixed waste, i.e. manure, kitchen waste and straw, into biomass rich in protein and fat. In this study, through orthogonal experiment, maize straw, fermented with Aspergillus oryzae for 24 h in a ratio of 4000:1, was identified for BSFL bioconversion. Bioconversion performance of BSFL on fermented maize straw was assessed. With this fermented maize straw as feedstuff, larval stage of BSF was significantly prolonged compared with the control feedstuff (wheat bran). Adult duration was significantly shortened and the fecundity of females was significantly decreased. The harvested dry BSF larvae contained 41.76% crude protein, 30.55%, crude fibre, and 8.24% crude ash. The grease of BSFL, compared to the larvae collected from the control diet, had a higher proportion of monounsaturated fatty acid (24.86%) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (25.37%), while a lower proportion of saturated fatty acid (45.41%). Dry matter reduction of maize straw was 48.41%. After bioconversion by BSFL, the residual maize straw was significantly changed in crude protein, crude fat and nitrogen free extract content. By comparing with organic fertilizer NY525-2012, maize straw residue had a potential application in agriculture and nursery as a novel fertilizer. This new alternative method will benefit the comprehensive bioconversion of maize straw with pretreatment by insect.

Sanhuang tablets (SHT) had a broad antibiotic spectrum with high efficiency and low toxicity. However, the clinical application was seriously limited by extremely bitter taste. A novel powder coating technology was established to mask the bitter taste of Sanhuang powder (SHP). Initially, the type and particle size of coating material, coating time and the ratio of coating material were investigated. The microstructure of composites was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angles (CAs), infrared ray spectrogram (IR) and surface elemental analysis. Furthermore, chemical measurement and electronic tongue test were applied to evaluate the masking effect. As a result, starch was chosen as the best coating material, and the optimal ratio of SHP and starch was 6.5:3.5 with grinding together for 2 min in vibromill. The composites and starch shared the same characteristics of infrared spectroscopy and surface properties. The microstructure demonstrated that small particles of starch was successfully coated on the surface of the SHP. The experimental results revealed that powder coating technology can be used to taste masking without coating the surface of the tablets. In addition, it provides a new strategy for taste masking of national medicine.

Ceruloplasmin (CP) is the major copper transport protein in plasma, mainly produced by the liver. Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked CP (GPI-CP) is the predominant form expressed in astrocytes of the brain. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that CP is an essential protein in the body with multiple functions such as regulating the homeostasis of copper and iron ions, ferroxidase activity, oxidizing organic amines, and preventing the formation of free radicals. In addition, as an acute-phase protein, CP is induced during inflammation and infection. The fact that patients with genetic disorder aceruloplasminemia do not suffer from tissue copper deficiency, but rather from disruptions in iron metabolism shows essential roles of CP in iron metabolism rather than copper. Furthermore, abnormal metabolism of metal ions and oxidative stress are found in other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Wilson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Brain iron accumulation and decreased activity of CP have been shown to be associated with neurodegeneration. We hypothesize that CP may play a protective role in neurodegenerative diseases. However, whether iron accumulation is a cause or a result of neurodegeneration remains unclear. Further research on molecular mechanisms is required before a consensus can be reached regarding a neuroprotective role for CP in neurodegeneration. This review article summarizes the main physiological functions of CP and the current knowledge of its role in neurodegenerative diseases.

The large-scale utilization problem of red mud remains a challenge. During the reduction of laterite ores to prepare ferronickel product, sodium or calcium salt usually needs to be added, but it would increase the raw material cost. Thus, the feasibility of co-reduction followed by magnetic separation of strong alkaline waste red mud and a limonitic laterite ore to prepare ferronickel was investigated. A ferronickel product containing 1.71 wt% nickel and 86.00 wt% iron was obtained, under the optimized co-reduction conditions of the red mud dosage of 20 wt%, the anthracite dosage of 16 wt%, the co-reduction duration of 70 min. The corresponding nickel and the total iron recoveries were 96.37 wt% and 97.72 wt%, respectively. Results showed that the co-reduction and comprehensive recovery of the iron ore in the red mud were achieved.

Iron and titanium were recovered from beach titanomagnetite (TTM) concentrate by embedding direct reduction and magnetic separation. The reduction products and the effects of the reductant type and reduction temperature on the reduction behavior were investigated. The results showed that the reduction of TTM concentrate was strongly related to the gasification reactivity of the reductant. Bitumite presented a better product index than wheat-straw biochar and coke, mainly because the gasification reactivity of bitumite was better than that of the other reductants. In addition, high temperatures were not beneficial to embedding direct reduction because of the emergence of a molten phase and iron-joined crystals, which in turn reduced the diffusion rate of the reducing gas and impeded the reduction reaction in the central area of the roasted briquette. The use of bitumite as the reductant at a C/Fe molar ratio of 1.4 and a reduction temperature of 1200°C for 120 min resulted in direct-reduction iron powder assaying 90.28wt% TFe and 0.91wt% TiO2 with an iron recovery of 91.83% and titanium concentrate assaying 46.01wt% TiO2 with a TiO2 recovery of 91.19%. Titanium existed mainly in the form of anosovite and ilmenite in the titanium concentrate.

The black soldier fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens has a strong tolerance to cadmium stress. This helps to use BSF in entomoremediation of heavy metal pollution. Rich metallothionein (MT) proteins were thought to be important for some insects to endure the toxicity of heavy metal. We identified and characterized three MTs genes in BSF (BSFMTs), including BSFMT1, BSFMT2A, and BSFMT2B. Molecular modeling was used to predict metal binding sites. Phylogenetic analysis was used to identify gene families. Overexpression of the recombinant black soldier fly metallothioneins was found to confer Cd tolerance in Escherichia coli. Finally, functions of BSFMTs in BSF were explored through RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi results of BSFMT2B showed that the larval fresh weight decreased significantly, and the larvae mortality increased significantly. This study suggests that BSFMTs have important properties in Cd detoxification and tolerance in BSF. Further characterization analyses of physiological function about metallothioneins are necessary in BSF and other insects.

A highly selective phosphine-catalyzed β-addition of α-fluoro β-dicarbonyl compounds to allenoates has been developed. Both α-fluoro β-diketones and α-fluoro β-keto esters prove to be competent fluorocarbon nucleophiles, giving a series of the β-addition products bearing a fluorinated quaternary carbon center in good to excellent yields and with excellent regioselectivities. A plausible reaction pathway is presented.

Large scale utilization is still an urgent problem for waste red mud with a high content of alkaline metal component in the future. Laterite ores especially the saprolitic laterite ore are one refractory nickel resource, the nickel and iron of which can be effectively recovered by direct reduction and magnetic separation. Alkaline metal salts were usually added to enhance reduction of laterite ores. The feasibility of co-reduction roasting of a saprolitic laterite ore and red mud was investigated. Results show that the red mud addition promoted the reduction of the saprolitic laterite ore and the iron ores in the red mud were co-reduced and recovered. By adding 35wt% red mud, the nickel grade and recovery were 4.90wt% and 95.25wt%, and the corresponding iron grade and total recovery were 71.00wt% and 93.77wt%, respectively. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis results revealed that red mud addition was helpful to increase the liquid phase and ferronickel grain growth. The chemical compositions “CaO and Na2O” in the red mud replaced FeO to react with SiO2 and MgSiO3 to form augite.

This study investigates the reactions of Na2SO4 and its effects on iron and nickel reduction in the roasting of a high-iron and low-nickel laterite ore through gas composition, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscope analyses. Results showed that a reduction reaction of Na2SO4 to SO2 was performed with roasting up to 600°C. However, no clear influence on iron and nickel reductions appeared, because only a small amount of Na2SO4 reacted to produce SO2. Na2SO4 reacted completely at 1000°C, mainly producing troilite and nepheline, which remarkably improves selective reduction of nickel. Furthermore, the production of low-melting-point minerals, including troilite and nepheline, accelerated nickel reduction and delayed iron reduction, which is attributed to the concurrent production of magnesium magnetite, whose structure is more stable than the structure of magnetite. Reduction reactions of Na2SO4 resulted in weakening of the reduction atmosphere, and the main product of Na2SO4 changed and delayed the reduction of iron. Eventually, iron metallization was effectively controlled during laterite ore reduction roasting, leading to iron mainly being found in wustite and high iron-containing olivine.

Summary Chrysomya megacephala is a saprophagous fly whose larvae can compost manure and yield biomass and bio‐fertilizer simultaneously. However, there are concerns for the safety of the composting system, that is risk of diseases spread by way of manure pathogens, residue of harmful metals and emission of greenhouse gases. Microbiota analysis and heavy metal speciation by European Communities Bureau of Reference were evaluated in raw, C. megacephala‐composted and natural stacked swine manure to survey pathogenic bacterial changes and mobility of lead and cadmium in manure after C. megacephala feeding; the emission rate of CH4 and N2O from manure during C. megacephala composting and natural stacking was also measured. C. megacephala composting altered manure microbiota, reduced the risk of pathogenic bacteria and maintained the stability, and microbiota changes might be associated with heavy metal fractions, especially in Pseudomonas and Prevotella. In addition, C. megacephala‐composting significantly reduced the emission rate of CH4 and N2O in comparing with natural stacking situation and the first two days should be the crucial period for CH4 and N2O emission measurement for manure treatment by C. megacephala. Moreover, OTU26 and Betaproteobacteria were changed after C. megacephala composting which might play a role in emission of CH4 and N2O, respectively.

In this study, starvation-, thermal- and heavy metal-associated expression of four small Musca domestica HSPs (abbreviated as MdomHSPs and they are MdomHSP10, MdomHSP27, MdomHSP27.1 and MdomHSP27.2) were determined. The following results were found: All MdomHSPs were significantly higher expressed during the active larval and adult stages than the egg and pupal stages; All MdomHSPs were expressed at relatively equal levels in the head, thorax and abdomen of adults; The expression of MdomHSP27 was significantly down-regulated in 4-day-old larvae that were starved for 6h, while the other 3 MdomHSPs were not significantly affected; Thermal treatment altered the expression of MdomHSPs in 4-day-old larvae: MdomHSP10 was significantly down-regulated in 4-day-old larvae that were maintained at 4°C and 37°C than in those that were maintained at 25°C; Lead, cadmium and chromium exposure influenced larval expression of MdomHSPs to varying degrees. The expression dynamic profile of MdomHSPs would contribute to the understanding of their physiological role in M. domestica.

In insects, the juvenile hormone (JH) biosynthetic pathway regulates the in vivo JH titer. Thus, its downregulation potentially contributes to the lowering of JH titers typically observed in insects undergoing reproductive diapause, a developmental arrest at the adult stage. However, no systematic evidence has yet been presented to demonstrate the physiological and genetic roles of JH biosynthetic genes in reproductive diapause. In this work, we performed RNA interference (RNAi)-based reverse genetic analyses by targeting JH biosynthetic genes, followed by analysis of the reproductive diapause traits in Colaphellus bowringi, an economically important cabbage beetle. We identified a total of 22 genes encoding homologues of enzymes involved in the mevalonate pathway and the JH branch of JH biosynthesis in C. bowringi. Among these, 18 genes showed significant downregulation of their expression in the long day-induced diapausing females, compared to the short day-induced reproductive females. RNAi knockdown of almost any one of the 18 genes in reproductive females reduced the expression of the JH-responsive gene, Krüppel homolog1 (Kr-h1), indicating a lowered circulating JH. Most importantly, depleting transcripts of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase 2 (HMGR2), farnesyl-pyrophosphate synthase 1 (FPPS1) and juvenile hormone acid methyltransferase 1 (JHAMT1) induced diapause-associated traits, including immature and inactive ovaries, large accumulations of lipids and adult burrowing behavior. Meanwhile, genes related to ovarian development, lipid accumulation and stress response showed expression patterns like those of diapausing females. RNAi-mediated diapause phenotypes could be reversed to reproductive phenotypes by application of methoprene, a JH receptor agonist. These results suggest that photoperiodic reproductive diapause in C. bowringi is triggered by transcriptional suppression of JH biosynthetic genes, with HMGR2, FPPS1 and JHAMT1 playing a critical role in this process. This work provides sufficient evidence to reveal the physiological roles of JH biosynthetic genes in reproductive diapause.

The bis-benzodioxole-fibrate hybrids were designed by structural simplification and bioisostere principle. Lipids lowering activity was preliminarily screened by Triton WR 1339 induced hyperlipidemia mice model, in which T3 showed the best hypolipidemia, decreasing plasma triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), which were better than sesamin and fenofibrate (FF). T3 was also found to significantly reduce TG, TC and low density lipoprotein cholesterin (LDL-C) both in plasma and liver tissue of high fat diet (HFD) induced hyperlipidemic mice. In addition, T3 showed hepatoprotective activity, which the noteworthy amelioration in liver aminotransferases (AST and ALT) was evaluated and the histopathological observation exhibited that T3 inhibited lipids accumulation in the hepatic and alleviated liver damage. The expression of PPAR-α receptor involved lipids metabolism in liver tissue significantly increased after T3 supplementation. Other potent activity, such as antioxidation and anti-inflammation, was also observed. The molecular docking study revealed that T3 has good affinity activity toward to the active site of PPAR-α receptor. Based on these findings, T3 may serve as an effective hypolipidemic agent with hepatoprotection.

A series of diamond films, single-layer carbon nanosheet (SCNS) films and diamond/carbon nanosheet (D/CNS) composite films have been prepared on the heavily-doped n-type silicon substrate by using microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) techniques and vacuum electron beam evaporation techniques. The films were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction(XRD), Raman spectroscopy. Field emission test results showed that diamond film, SCNS film and D/CNS composite film respective field emission current density is 0.004 mA/cm 2 (there's almost no electron emission), 0.45 mA/cm 2 and 3.21 mA/cm 2 at an electric field of 7.2V/μm. This means that the field emission maximum current density of D/CNS composite films is 7.1 times that of SCNS films at an electric field of 7.2 V/μm. At the same time the D/CNS composite film exhibits the advantage of improved reproducibility and long term stability. Diamond layer can effectively improve the field emission characteristics of CNS film. The reason may be due to the diamond film acts as the electron acceleration layer, meanwhile, the heterogeneity of diamond and CNS material could lead to lowering of the interfacial potential barrier.

Chloride ion (Cl-) attack is a main reason for localized corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete. Study on the effect of Cl- on corrosion behavior of the steel is of importance for corrosion protection. In this study, reinforcing steel (Q235 carbon steel) passivity in simulated polluted concrete pore solutions at pH 11.50 with different Cl- concentrations was studied by a scanning micro-reference electrode technique, combined with polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements and an electron probe method. The results indicated that the steel remained passive in the solution without Cl-. The steel passivity might be destroyed by the Cl- attack, and the pitting corrosion took place. The chloride threshold level for localized corrosion of the steel in the solution was 0.010 to 0.020 M Cl-. Pitting corrosion occurred preferentially at MnS inclusion locations, and the Cl- was adsorbed at these locations resulting in depassivation of the steel surface.

Oxidative stress and inflammation have been considered the main factors in the liver injury of clofibrate (CF). To obtain a novel antihyperlipidemic agent with antioxidant, anti-inflammation and hepatoprotection, the combination of sesamol and clofibric acid moieties was performed and achieved sesamol-clofibrate (CF-Sesamol). CF-Sesamol showed significant hypolipidemia effects in hyperlipidemia mice induced by Triton WR 1339, reducing TG by 38.8% (P 0.01) and TC by 35.1% (P 0.01). CF-Sesamol also displayed an alleviating effect on hepatotoxicity. The hepatic weight and hepatic coefficient were decreased. The amelioration of liver function was observed, such as aspartate and lactate transaminases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total proteins (TP) levels. Liver histopathological examination showed that hepatocyte necrosis, cytoplasmic loosening, nuclear degeneration and inflammatory cell infiltration reduced obviously by treatment with CF-Sesamol. Related molecular mechanisms on hepatoprotection showed that CF-Sesamol up-regulated Nrf2 and HO-1 expression and down-regulated p-NF-κB p65 expression in hepatic tissues. CF-Sesamol has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Plasma antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and CAT increased, anti-lipid peroxidation product MDA decreased. The expression of TNF-α and IL-6 inflammatory cytokines in liver was significantly lower than that in the CF group. The results indicated that CF-Sesamol exerted more potent antihyperlipidemic effects and definite hepatoprotective activity partly through the Nrf2/NF-κB-mediated signaling pathway.

A series of target compounds 1,3-benzodioxole-based fibrate derivatives were designed and synthesized. All the target compounds were preliminarily evaluated by hyperlipidemia mice induced by Triton WR-1339, in which compound 12 displayed a greater anti-hyperlipidemia activity than other compounds as well as positive drug fenofibrate (FF). 12 showed a significant reduction of plasma lipids, such as triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterin (LDL-C), in high fat diet (HFD) induced hyperlipidemic mice. In addition, hepatic transaminases (AST and ALT) were ameliorated after administration of 12, in particular the AST, and the histopathological examination showed that 12 improved the hepatic lipid accumulation. The expression of PPAR-α involved in lipids metabolism was up-regulated in the liver tissues of 12-treated group. Other significant activity such as antioxidant, and anti-inflammation was confirmed and reinforced the effects of 12 as a potential hypolipidemia and hepatoprotective agent.

Juvenile hormone (JH) plays an essential role in regulating molting, metamorphosis, reproduction, and diapause (dormancy), in many insects and crustaceans. JH esterases (JHEs) can control JH titer by regulating JH degradation. Although the biochemistry and structure of JHEs have been well studied, regulation of their expression remains unclear. We identified three putative JHEs (JHE1, JHE2, JHE3) in the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi, and investigated the regulation of their expression by JH signaling in non-diapause-destined (NDD, reproductive) and diapause-destined (DD) female adults. Sequence and phylogenetic tree analyses indicate that the three putative JHEs shared conserved motifs with the JHEs of other insects and one crustacean, and were similar to Coleopteran, Dipteran, Orthopteran, Hymenopteran, and Decapodan JHEs. They were, however, less closely related to Hemipteran and Lepidopteran JHEs. JHEs were more highly expressed in NDD female adults than in DD female adults. JH analog induction in DD female adults significantly upregulated the expression of JHE1 and JHE2, but had no effect on the expression of JHE3. Knockdown of the JH candidate receptor methoprene-tolerant (Met) in NDD female adults downregulated the expression of all three JHEs. These results suggest that JHE expression is positively correlated with JH signaling, and that Met may be involved in the JH-mediated differential expression of JHE in DD and NDD adult female C. bowringi.

In the present study, a new strategy including the combination of external appearance, chemical detection, and biological analysis was proposed for the comprehensive evaluation of safflowers in different producing areas. Firstly, 40 batches of safflower samples were classified into class I and II based on color measurements and K-means clustering analysis. Secondly, a rapid and sensitive analytical method was developed for simultaneous quantification of 16 chromaticity-related characteristic components (including characteristic components hydroxysafflor yellow A, anhydrosafflor yellow B, safflomin C, and another 13 flavonoid glycosides) in safflowers by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple-quadrupole linear ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTRAP&reg, /MS2). The results of the quantification indicate that hydroxysafflor yellow A, anhydrosafflor yellow B, kaempferol, quercetin, and safflomin C had significant differences between the two types of safflower, and class I of safflower had a higher content of hydroxysafflor yellow A, anhydrosafflor yellow B, and safflomin C as the main anti-thrombotic components in safflower. Thirdly, chemometrics methods were employed to illustrate the relationship in multivariate data of color measurements and chromaticity-related characteristic components. As a result, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside and 6-hydroxykaempferol-3-O-&beta, d-glucoside were strongly associated with the color indicators. Finally, anti-thrombotic analysis was used to evaluate activity and verify the suitability of the classification basis of safflower based on the color measurements. It was shown that brighter, redder, yellower, more orange&ndash, yellow, and more vivid safflowers divided into class I had a higher content of characteristic components and better anti-thrombotic activity. In summary, the presented strategy has potential for quality evaluation of other flower medicinal materials.

Danshen (salvia miltiorrhiza) and honghua(Carthamus tinctorius) were traditional herb pair with promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis actions, in China. Both were widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases (CVD) for hundreds years, especially shown definite advantage in the treatment of ischemic heart disease (IHD). However, the mechanism of danshen-honghua herb pair (DHHP) in the treatment of IHD was still unclear. This study was focused on examining the effects and possible mechanisms of DHHP in rats with acute myocardial ischemia induced by isoproterenol (ISO). The results suggested that DHHP significantly ameliorated the myocardial tissue abnormalities, notablely inhibited the elevation of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinekinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) and cardiac troponin T (CTn-T) in plasma, obviously decreased the plasma levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNF-α), outstandingly inhibited the reduction of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) caused by ISO, significantly inhibited the high expression of Bcl-2 assaciated X protein (Bax) and nuclear transcriptionfactor-κBP65 (NF-κBP65) protein, significantly induced the low expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein in acute myocardial ischemia rats. DHHP can obviously ameliorate hemodynamic parameters. In summary, DHHP can significantly improve myocardial ischemia in acute myocardial ischemia model rats caused by ISO. Anti-free radicals, anti-peroxidation, inhibition of cell apoptosis and anti- inflammation maybe are the potential mechanisms of DHHP anti-myocardial ischemia in acute myocardial ischemia rats in duced by ISO.

Antibiotics are commonly used in livestock and poultry farming. Residual antibiotics in manure may lead to antibiotic pollution of soil, surface water, and groundwater through land application and run-off rainfall. The black soldier fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens is a good candidate for manure management. We evaluated the effect of sulfonamide pollution on the growth of H. illucens. Four treatments were considered with a sulfonamide content in the feed of 0 (control group), 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/kg. The control larvae were fed without sulfonamide. Survival and development status of the individuals were recorded daily. The weights of the fifth instar larvae, prepupae, and pupae were checked. Antioxidant enzyme activity was determined with the fifth instar larvae. The results showed that a low (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) concentration of sulfonamides had no effects on larval survival, pupation, and eclosion of BSFs. A high sulfonamide concentration of 10 mg/kg had a significant effect on the survival of larvae and pupae and on the body weight of larvae, prepupae and pupae. Peak of the cumulated pupation rate and eclosion rate in the sulfonamide treatment of 10 mg/kg was very low. Pupation and eclosion in this group peaked later than that of the control and low sulfonamide concentration treatment groups (0.1 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg). Larvae from the sulfonamides group showed lower antioxidase activities than that of the control. In sulfonamide groups, the activity of peroxidase and superoxide dismutase was reduced in a concentration-dependent manner. Sulfamonomethoxine, sulfamethoxazole, and sulfamethazine were not detected in the harvested prepupae. Only sulfadiazine was discovered in the sulfonamide treatments of 1 and 10 mg/kg. In conclusion, BSFs can tolerate certain concentrations of sulfonamide contamination.

Diamond/boron/MoS2/diamond composite film electroluminescence (EL) devices with different MoS2 thickness were fabricated on p-type heavy doped silicon substrates. Its composition, microstructure and EL characteristics were tested and discussed. The experimental results show that the EL spectrum of the device has two luminous peaks in the visible region, which is located in the green region and the red region respectively. As the thickness of MoS2 increased from 10 nm to 80 nm, the peak of red luminescence shifted from 676 nm to 704 nm, and the breakdown voltage of an EL device gradually decreased from 420 V to 140 V, meanwhile the EL intensity first increases and then decreases. When thickness of MoS2 is 30 nm, the brightness of the EL device reaches the maximum.

Diapause, a programmed developmental arrest primarily induced by seasonal environmental changes, is very common in the animal kingdom, and found in vertebrates and invertebrates alike. Diapause provides an adaptive advantage to animals, as it increases the odds of surviving adverse conditions. In insects, individuals perceive photoperiodic cues and modify endocrine signaling to direct reproductive diapause traits, such as ovary arrest and increased fat accumulation. However, it remains unclear as to which endocrine factors are involved in this process and how they regulate the onset of reproductive diapause. Here, we found that the long day-mediated drop in the concentration of the steroid hormone ecdysone is essential for the preparation of photoperiodic reproductive diapause in Colaphellus bowringi, an economically important cabbage beetle. The diapause-inducing long-day condition reduced the expression of ecdysone biosynthetic genes, explaining the drop in the titer of 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E, the active form of ecdysone) in female adults. Application of exogenous 20E induced vitellogenesis and ovarian development but reduced fat accumulation in the diapause-destined females. Knocking down the ecdysone receptor (EcR) in females destined for reproduction blocked reproductive development and induced diapause traits. RNA-seq and hormone measurements indicated that 20E stimulates the production of juvenile hormone (JH), a key endocrine factor in reproductive diapause. To verify this, we depleted three ecdysone biosynthetic enzymes via RNAi, which confirmed that 20E is critical for JH biosynthesis and reproductive diapause. Importantly, impairing Met function, a component of the JH intracellular receptor, partially blocked the 20E-regulated reproductive diapause preparation, indicating that 20E regulates reproductive diapause in both JH-dependent and -independent manners. Finally, we found that 20E deficiency decreased ecdysis-triggering hormone signaling and reduced JH production, thereby inducing diapause. Together, these results suggest that 20E signaling is a pivotal regulator that coordinates reproductive plasticity in response to environmental inputs., Author summary Developmental arrest pervades organismal development and physiology where it facilitates an enormous range of adaptive responses to stressful conditions. Many animals exhibit various forms of developmental arrest that ensures survival under the most adverse environments. Reproductive diapause occurs when adults temporarily suspend reproduction in response to environmental stress and has been documented for a variety of invertebrates, particularly insects. Endocrine signals play a central role in translating environmental cues such as photoperiod into reproductive diapause-related physiology and behavior. However, it has been an unresolved issue as to which endocrine factors can respond to photoperiodic inputs and regulate diapause outputs. In this study, we found that a decrease in ecdysone levels is critical for reproductive diapause to occur. Also, ecdysone could interact with juvenile hormone to regulate the occurrence of reproductive diapause in response to photoperiodic cues. Our findings provide new insight into endocrine mechanisms of photoperiodic reproductive diapause and an example of phenotypic plasticity in animals.

Diamond/CeF 3 composite film (DCCF) electroluminescence devices was fabricated on highly doping n-type silicon substrates by using plasma chemical vapor deposition techniques and vacuum electron beam evaporation techniques. The films were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Energy dispersive spectrum (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electroluminescence (EL) spectrum. The EL spectrum of DCCFs shows that a strong broad peaks are located at 440 nm, and its EL brightness of the device can reach 10 cd/m 2 at a forward applied voltage of 120 V. The blue light emitting peak is assigned to the transitions from the excited 5d state to 4f ( 2 F 5/2 ) and 4f ( 2 F 7/2 ) states of Ce 3+ ions, respectively.

In insects, the process whereby juvenile hormone (JH) regulates short-day (SD)-induced reproductive diapause has been previously investigated. However, we still do not understand the mechanism by which JH regulates long-day (LD)-induced reproductive diapause. In this study, we use a cabbage beetle, Colaphellus bowringi, which is a serious pest of cruciferous vegetables in Asia capable of entering reproductive diapause under LD conditions, as a model to test whether JH regulates female reproductive diapause similar to the mechanism of SD-induced diapause. Our results showed that the JH analog (JHA) methoprene significantly induced ovarian development but inhibited lipid accumulation of diapause-destined adults. Meanwhile, the transcripts of the vitellogenin (Vg) genes were upregulated, whereas the expression of the fat synthesis and stress tolerance genes were downregulated. RNA interference of the JH candidate receptor gene methoprene-tolerant (Met) blocked JH-induced ovarian development and Vg transcription, suggesting a positive regulatory function for JH-Met signaling in reproduction. Furthermore, under reproduction-inducing conditions, Met depletion promoted a diapause-like phenotype, including arrested ovarian development and increased lipid storage, and stimulated the expression of diapause-related genes involved in lipid synthesis and stress tolerance, suggesting JH-Met signaling plays an important role in the inhibition of diapause. Accordingly, our data indicate that JH acts through Met to facilitate development of the reproductive system by upregulating Vg expression while inhibiting diapause by suppressing lipid synthesis and stress tolerance in the cabbage beetle. Combined with previous studies in SD-induced reproductive diapause, we conclude that JH may regulate female reproductive diapause using a conserved Met-dependent pathway, regardless of the length of the photoperiod inducing diapause in insects.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly termed as motor neuron disease (MND) in UK, is a chronically lethal disorder among the neurodegenerative diseases, meanwhile. ALS is basically irreversible and progressive deterioration of upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, brain stem and medulla spinalis. Riluzole, used for the treatment of ALS, was demonstrated to slightly delay the initiation of respiratory dysfunction and extend the median survival of patients by a few months. In this study, the key biochemical defects were discussed, such as: mutant Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase, mitochondrial protectants, and anti-excitotoxic/ anti-oxidative / anti-inflammatory/ anti-apoptotic agents, so the related drug candidates that have been studied in ALS models would possibly be further used in ALS patients.

A diamond/HoF3/diamond composite film (DHDCF) electroluminescent device was prepared on a highly doped n-type silicon substrate by plasma chemical vapor deposition system and electron beam vacuum evaporation system. The films were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy spec-troscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and EL spectrum. Luminescence characteristics of the DHDCF devices were tested, and the results show that three peaks appear at 420 nm, 604 nm and 708 nm. The luminescence of the device is white when observed with the naked eye. The luminescence originates from the discrete lumi-nescence center of Ho3+ ion. The diamond film can effectively stimulate Ho3+ ions and promote the luminescence of Ho3+ ions.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Herb pair, the most fundamental and simplest form of herb compatibility, serves as the basic building block of traditional Chinese medicine formulae. The Danshen–Honghua herb pair (DH), composed of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Danshen in Chinese) and Carthami Flos (Honghua in Chinese), has remarkable clinical efficacy to cure cardio-cerebrovascular diseases. This study was designed to investigate the pharmacodynamics of DH in comparison with single herbs and pharmacokinetics of DH relative to Danshen in acute myocardial ischemic injury. Materials and methods Sixty male Wistar rats were divided into control, model and drug treated groups. The acute myocardial ischemia rat model was induced by administering 85 mg/kg/d isoproterenol (ISO) subcutaneously for two consecutive days. For pharmacodynamic study, histopathological and biochemical analysis were performed to assess the anti-myocardial ischemic effects. While for pharmacokinetic study, a UPLC–MS/MS method was developed for determination of nine main active ingredients, namely danshensu, protocatechuic acid, protocatechualdehyde, caffeic acid, lithospermic acid, rosmarinic acid, salvianolic acid B, salvianolic acid A and salvianolic acid C in rat plasma. Results The histopathological and biochemical analysis revealed that DH exerted enhanced anti-myocardial ischemic effects against the ISO-induced myocardial ischemia compared with single herbs. The pharmacokinetic study indicated that DH could significantly increase the t1/2z of danshensu, Tmax, AUC0-∞ and MRT0-t of protocatechuic acid in comparison with Danshen alone in normal rats, but more importantly elevate systemic exposure level and prolong t1/2z of protocatechualdehyde, caffeic acid, Tmax of danshensu in acute myocardial ischemia rats. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated the greater effects of DH after the compatibility in ISO-induced acute myocardial ischemia rats at pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic levels and provided valuable information for clinical application of herb pairs.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that Na2SO4 can significantly inhibit the reduction of iron oxide in the selective reduction process of laterite nickel ore. FeS generated in the process plays an important role in selective reduction, but the generation process of FeS and its inhibition mechanism on iron reduction are not clear. To figure this out, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses were conducted to study the roasted ore. The results show that when Na2SO4 is added in the roasting, the FeO content in the roasted ore increases accompanied by the emergence of FeS phase. Further analysis indicates that Na2S formed by the reaction of Na2SO4 with CO reacts with SiO2 at the FeO surface to generate FeS and Na2Si2O5. As a result, a thin film forms on the surface of FeO, hindering the contact between reducing gas and FeO. Therefore, the reduction of iron is depressed, and the FeO content in the roasted ore increases.

Although mounting evidence suggests that ceruloplasmin (CP) deficiency and iron deposition are pivotal factors responsible for exacerbating demise of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) of the Parkinsonism and neural stem cells (NSCs) are believed to be excellent candidates for compensating the lost dopaminergic neurons, there are few researches to explore the change of CP expression and of iron deposition in the pathological microenvironment of SN after NSCs transplantation and the ability of grafted NSCs to differentiate directionally into dopaminergic neurons under the changed homeostasis. With substantia nigral stereotaxic technique and NSCs transplantation, we found that tyrosine hydroxylase and CP expression decreased and iron deposition increased in the lesioned SN after 6-OHDA administration compared with control, while tyrosine hydroxylase and CP expression increased and iron deposition decreased after NSCs transplantation compared to 6-OHDA administration alone. Only a small number of embedding NSCs are able to differentiate into dopaminergic neurons. These results suggest that grafted NSCs have an influence on improving the content of CP expression, which may play a neuroprotective role by decreasing iron deposition and ameliorating damage of dopaminergic neurons and possibly underline the iron-related common mechanism of Parkinson’s disease and Wilson’s disease.

The enzymatic hydrolysis of defatted wheat germ protein was carried out by using Alcalase, Flavourzyme and papain. The hydrolysates prepared by Alcalase under optimal conditions for 200 min had the highest degree of hydrolysis (DH) of 15.61 ± 0.09% and metal chelating ability of 69.62 ± 0.96%. The zinc-chelating peptides were isolated and purified from Alcalase hydrolysates using immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography (IMAC-Zn2+) and macroporous adsorption resin DA 201-C. Two major zinc-chelating peptides identified by MALDI TOF/TOF were Asn-Ala-Pro-Leu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Leu-Lys-His (NAPLPPPLKH) and His-Asn-Ala-Pro-Asn-Pro-Gly-Leu-Pro-Try-Ala-Ala (HNAPNPGLPYAA). HNAPNPGLPYAA had a high zinc chelating capacity of 91.67 ± 0.81% and possessed higher zinc bioavailability than ZnSO4 in Caco-2 cells (P

The mechanisms of cold tolerance in insects which are exposed to suboptimal temperatures for survival include accumulation of cryoprotectants and expression of heat shock protein genes (hsps). Spodoptera exigua is a freeze avoidance insect, which can overwinter as third instar larvae in China. Our previous study illustrated that seasonal and diel fluctuating temperatures enhanced its cold hardening. The survival mechanism for this stage, however, is poorly understood. We hypothesized that the survival mechanisms in third instar larvae of S. exigua were correlated with the induction of cryoprotectants and/or expression of hsps. Results showed that trehalose as the main cryoprotectant was accumulated during the cold acclimation (CA), and the level of accumulation fell off sharply when the CA treatment was discontinued (discontinued cold acclimation, DCA). Furthermore, inducible hsp90 was down-regulated in all treatments compared with the control, and hsp70 was up-regulated under conditions of CA and RCH (rapid cold hardening), which induced 1.23- and 44.00-fold increases compared with the control. Therefore, we considered that both trehalose (as the main cryoprotectant) and hsps (i.e. hsp90 and hsp70) were involved in the regulation of physiological activity of third instar larvae of S. exigua to resist low temperatures during winter. These results are helpful for us to understand the mechanisms underlying this species' ecological adaptability and stress tolerance.

With the development of large-scale livestock farming, manure pollution has drawn much attention. Conversion by insects is a rapid and cost-effective new method for manure management. Swine manure conversion with maggots (Musca domestica larvae) has developed, and the harvested maggots are often used as animal feed. However, the flow of heavy metals from manure to downstream processes cannot be ignored, and therefore, heavy metal content was measured in untreated raw manure, maggot-treated manure, harvested maggots and maggot-eating chickens (chest muscle and liver) to evaluate potential heavy metal risks. The levels of zinc, copper, chromium, selenium, cadmium and lead had significant differences between untreated raw manure and maggot-treated manure. The concentrations of all detected heavy metals, except for cadmium and selenium, in maggots met the limits established by the feed or feed additive standards of many countries. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of heavy metals decreased with the increase of the maggot instar, indicating that heavy metals were discharged from the bodies of maggots with the growth of maggots. Also, the contents of overall heavy metals in chickens fed harvested maggots met the standards for food. In conclusion, regarding heavy metals, it is eco-safe to use maggots in manure management.

Black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus, 1758), is an important economic fly as its larvae can be used for recycling organic waste, such as food waste and manure. H. illucens larvae (BSFL) could uptake Cd from substrates and accumulate it inside bodies, which need to be monitored during waste treatment. Metallothionein (MT) usually serve as biomarker because of its role in metal homeostasis, detoxification, and dose response of heavy metals. Therefore, a MT gene was cloned from H. illucens (HIMT) that encoded 40 amino acids with typical cysteine rich features, which had a high sequence identity with other insect MTs. The expression of HIMT and total MT protein was measured in BSFL fed by meals spiked with gradient dose of Cd (0, 5, 50, 500 mg/kg) for 24, 48, 72, and 96 h, respectively. Dose-associated response of HIMT and total MT were found and the possible correlative range of Cd was from 5 to 50 mg/kg. The expression of HIMT might be a potential biomarker for monitoring Cd contamination by H. illucens in terrestrial organic matters, which might further apply in waste transformation system.

The bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis produces Crystal (Cry) proteins that are toxic to a diverse range of insects. Transgenic crops that produce Bt Cry proteins are grown worldwide because of their improved resistance to insect pests. Although Bt “pyramid” cotton that produces both Cry1A and Cry2A is predicted to be more resistant to several lepidopteran pests, including Spodoptera exigua, than plants that produce Cry1Ac alone, the mechanisms responsible for the toxicity of Cry2Aa in S. exigua are not well understood. We identified several proteins that bind Cry2Aa (polycalin, V-ATPase subunits A and B, actin, 4-hydroxybutyrate CoA-transferase [4-HB-CoAT]), and a receptor for activated protein kinase C (Rack), in S. exigua. Recombinant, expressed versions of these proteins were able to bind the Cry2Aa toxin in vitro assays. RNA interference gene knockdown of the Se-V-ATPase subunit B significantly decreased the susceptibility of S. exigua larvae to Cry2Aa, whereas knockdown of the other putative binding proteins did not. Moreover, an in vitro homologous competition assay demonstrated that the Se-V-ATPase subunit B binds specifically to the Cry2Aa toxin, suggesting that this protein acts as a functional receptor of Cry2Aa in S. exigua. This the first Cry2Aa toxin receptor identified in S. exigua brush-border membrane vesicles.

HCl doped Polyaniline (PANI)/multi–walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanocomposites were first prepared by in–situ chemical polymerization of aniline monomers in the presence of MWCNTs with less structural defects, and then p–toluene sulfonic acid (TSA) doped PANI/MWCNT nanocomposites were obtained by a sequential doping–dedoping–redoping process. The morphology, microstructure, and thermal and electrochemical properties of the resulting nanocomposites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, fournier infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, and cyclic voltammetry, respectively. The effects of TSA as the secondary dopant on the microstructure and electrochemical properties were discussed. The results indicated that a significant improvement in the thermal stability could be achieved, while good electrochemical behavior could be remained.

Jinma company of Liaohe oilfield has carried out weak gel flooding in-depth in block Hai1 and achieved good effect. But in the process of profile and flooding, problems of gelation fluctuating and gelling rate declining seriously affected the implementation effect of the profile control and flooding project. It is researched that one of main factors affecting gelling effect of profile and flooding system is the dissolved oxygen. Aiming at this problem, this paper studies critical value affecting gelling in combination with the actual situation of polymer displacement in block Hai 1. The experimental results show that, content of dissolved oxygen affects both gelling strength and gelling time of weak gel in the way that when dissolved oxygen content is between 0mg/L and 3mg/L, low gelling strength and long gelling time are obtained, while in the range of 4mg/L-10mg/L, gelling effect is good. Two critical values are respective 1.5mg/L and 7mg/L.

The decarboxylation of potassium 2-pyridinyl sulfonyldifluoroacetate and its subsequent reaction with aldehydes was found to be an efficient approach for the Julia–Kocienski reaction under mild conditions to give gem-difluoro olefins in moderate to excellent yields. Owing to its high stability in the pure state and its easy decarboxylation in polar solvents, potassium 2-pyridinyl sulfonyldifluoroacetate is expected to be an efficient gem-difluoro-olefination reagent.

An efficient method for the copper-catalyzed trifluoromethylation of terminal alkenes with an electrophilic trifluoromethylating reagent has been developed. The reactions proceeded smoothly to give trifluoromethylated alkenes in good to excellent yields. The results provided a versatile approach for the construction of Cvinyl–CF3 bonds without using prefunctionalized substrates.

The copper-mediated trifluoromethylation of terminal alkynes with S-(trifluoromethyl)diarylsulfonium salt has been carefully investigated. The reactions proceeded smoothly to afford trifluoromethylated acetylenes in moderate to good yields. This approach

Corrosion of reinforcing steel is one of the major causes of the degradation of reinforced concrete structures (1,2). Many protecting measures have been taken to prevent the onset of the steel corrosion or decrease the corrosion rate. Among these, corrosion inhibitors have attracted increasing studies because of their low cost and easy application (3,4 ). In this work, the effect of the compound inhibitor with NaNO2 and D-sodium gluconate on the corrosion behavior of reinforcing steel in simulated concrete pore solutions with chloride ions was studied, and the inhibition efficiency of the inhibitor was evaluated by electrochemical techniques and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). R235 reinforcing steel was used for all experiments. After cleaned, the working surfaces of steel specimens were polished successively with SiC paper from 400 to 1200 grit, and then rinsed with de-ionized water before tests. A saturated calcium hydroxide solution was referred to as the simulated concrete pore solution (SPS) and used as the test solution (5). The Cl concentration and pH in the test solution were adjusted by adding NaCl and deionized water to the solution, respectively. All tests were carried out at room temperature. An Autolab Potentiostat Galvanostat with a classical three-electrode cell was used in the electrochemical measurements. The reference electrode was a saturated calomel electrode, and the counter electrode was a platinum sheet. The corrosion behavior of the reinforcing steel was evaluated by linear polarization and potentiodynamic anodic polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis. The EIS measurements were made by the Autolab with PGSTAT30 and FRA module at the open circuit potential over a frequency range between 10 Hz and 10 Hz. The amplitude of the wave was 10 mV. The experimental impedance spectra were fitted to the equivalent circuit by the FRA software of Autolab. Figure 1 shows the potentiodynamic anodic polarization curves of the reinforcing steel in SPS with pH 11.00, 3.5% NaCl, and different inhibitors. The results indicated that the steel did not exhibit a passive range, showing the steel corrosion took place. When the inhibitors were added to the test solution, the steel was in a state of passivity. The result also showed that the compound inhibitor acts as an anode inhibitor. After adding the compound inhibitor to the SPS with 3.5% NaCl and pH 11.00, the steel corrosion current density decreased to 1% of the level for that without inhibitors, and the inhibition efficiency of the inhibitor was 99%. EIS results demonstrated that the charge transfer resistance of the steel electrode in the above test solution with the compound inhibitor was bigger than that without inhibitors, indicating the inhibitor could effectively protect the reinforcing steel against corrosion.

Copper (Cu) nanowires films are deposited on the molybdenum film-coated Al2O3 ceramic substrates by using the electron beam vapor deposition technique. The films were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscope , x-ray diffraction spectrum and energy dispersive spectrum. The surface morphology show that the Cu nanowires have excellent length-to-diameter ratio of 300, and each Cu nanowires diameter is uniform. The field electron emission measurements of Cu nanowires films were also carried out showing the turn on field as low as 2.5 V/μm and the average current density of 0.10 mA/cm2 at electric field of 10.8 V/μm were obtained from a broad uniform emission screen over 3.0 cm2.