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Discovering new functional genes and developing high‐performance materials are the goals being pursued by scientists. In this work, we successfully obtained a second‐order nonlinear optical (NLO) material via the aqueous solution method, Y[N(CN)2]4[NH(C2H5)3] ⋅ 3H2O, which is the first NLO material with the anionic group N(CN)2−. Remarkably, this material is not only strongly NLO‐active at 1064 nm with a response of about 2.8 × KH2PO4, but also possesses a short UV absorption edge of 250 nm. In‐depth first‐principles calculations illustrate well that the optical properties are mainly from the strong interaction of N, C and Y atoms. This result indicates that the N(CN)2− anion may be a new NLO functional gene. This work enriches the diversity of NLO functional genes and materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Preparation of pure inorganic piezoelectric nanofiber membrane at low temperature. • By lowering the temperature, the pure inorganic piezoelectric fiber membrane shows good flexibility. • It is found that ultrasonic vibration can accelerate the adsorption behavior of fiber membrane. • Through the color change after PZT saturated adsorption, the actual concentration of the dye can be quickly determined. It is a challenge to achieve flexibility in purely inorganic piezoelectric materials without organic support, and various thin film flexible inorganic piezoelectric materials has been developed recently. In this work, lead zirconate titanate (PZT) nanofiber membranes were prepared by electrospinning, and a flexible membranes can be obtained by reducing the calcination temperature, and the flexibility was characterized by the three-point method. The fiber membrane was relatively thicker in relative to thin films and confirmed to adsorb Congo Red quickly under the action of ultrasound. The maximum adsorption capacity is 61.78 mg g−1 and saturation time reaches 20 min under ultrasound treatment. In addition, the color change after saturation adsorption can quickly determine the actual load of the fiber membrane. In the future, this load saturation effect can be used to calibrate the relationship between the piezoelectric signal and the adsorption load, so as to obtain more accurate chemical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of organic pollutants in the world is harmful to our existence and the environment. So efficient and energy-saving methods for the degradation of organic pollutants present in the environment are important and beneficial for humans and the environment. The use of emerging photocatalytic technology using semiconductor materials to degrade organic pollutants is an effective method with potential prospects for the future. In this work, quantum chemical calculations and classical molecular dynamics simulations are employed to investigate the performances and related reactivities of sulfide semiconductor materials for the photocatalytic degradation of several common organic compounds. The reactivity of the organics is studied using quantum chemical calculations. The adsorption behaviors of several types of organic compounds on the surfaces of sulfide semiconductors in the gas phase were investigated, then similar adsorption processes in the aqueous phase were studied, and then CdS semiconductors were used to explore the influence of different crystal planes on the adsorption behavior of organic matter. Based on adsorption energy calculations, the best adsorption performance for a specific type of organic matter on a sulfide semiconductor was explored, together with an adsorption comparison in the gas and water phases. The results of this study may provide theoretical guidance for sulfide semiconductor photocatalysis technology and give ideas for subsequent experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) can convert greenhouse gases into high value‐added carbon‐based fuels and chemicals, providing a sustainable way to solve the energy and environmental crisis. Currently, AuCu bimetallic alloys are attracting attention because of their potential to customize the catalytic activity. In this work, the stability of Au and AuCu bimetallic clusters are systematically studied by first principles calculation. On this basis, the AuCu cluster catalyst is simulated using the density functional theory (DFT) to detect its catalytic activity for the reduction of CO2 to CH3OH. The calculation results show that the AuCu clusters with symmetry have the best stability. Moreover, the doping of Cu atoms in the Au6 cluster can reduce the reaction barrier to a certain extent, thereby accelerating the reaction. Among them, Au1Cu5 and Au2Cu4 cluster catalysts have the most obvious catalytic effects. In the last step, the energy can be reduced by about 2.688 and 5.404 kcal·mol−1, respectively, which can realize the synergistic catalytic effect of Au and Cu on CO2RR. This work can be helpful for the design and preparation of high‐efficiency bimetallic cluster catalysts for CO2RR to CH3OH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birefringent materials are vital materials to modulate the polarization of light, and play a key role in plorization devices such as linear optical devices, optical communication devices, and fiber optic sensors. It is still a challenge to design excellent birefringent materials. Herein, we report an organic–inorganic hybrid oxalate birefringent material, (CN4H7)SbC2O4F2(H2O)0.5, by introducing organic delocalized π-conjugated [CN4H7]+ and [C2O4]2− groups, and stereochemical active inorganic SbO4F2 polyhedra. (CN4H7)SbC2O4F2(H2O)0.5 exhibits a large birefringence (Δn = 0.126@546 nm) that is almost equal to that of the well-known birefringent material α-BaB2O4. Theoretical calculations reveal that the distinguished birefringence should stem from the synergistic arrangement of π-conjugated [CN4H7]+ and [C2O4]2− planar groups, and highly distorted SbO4F2 polyhedra with a stereochemically active lone pair. The synergistic effect of π-conjugated systems and the lone pair electrons greatly boosts the birefringence, which is helpful for the development of high-performance birefringent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birefringent materials play a key role in modulating the polarization of light and thus in optical communication as well as in laser techniques and science. Designing new, excellent birefringent materials remains a challenge. In this work, we designed and synthesized the first antimony(III) fluoride oxalate birefringent material, KSb2C2O4F5, by a combination of delocalized π‐conjugated [C2O4]2− groups, stereochemical active Sb3+ cations, and the most electronegative element, fluorine. The [C2O4]2− groups are not in an optimal arrangement in the crystal structure of KSb2C2O4F5; nonetheless, KSb2C2O4F5 exhibits a large birefringence (Δn=0.170 at 546 nm) that is even better than that of the well‐known commercial birefringent material α‐BaB2O4, even though the latter features an optimal arrangement of π‐conjugated [B3O6]3− groups. Based on first‐principles calculations, this prominent birefringence should be attributed to the alliance of planar π‐conjugated [C2O4]2− anions, highly distorted SbO2F2 and SbOF3 polyhedra with a stereochemically active lone pair. The combination of lone‐pair electrons and π‐conjugated systems boosts the birefringence to a large extent and will help the development of high‐performance birefringent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic morphine tolerance is a repulsive barrier to the clinical treatment of pain. Whereas the underlying molecular mechanisms of morphine tolerance remain unknown. Here, we proposed that tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8-like 2 (TIPE2) is an essential control point regarding the progression of chronic morphine antinociceptive tolerance. We found that TIPE2 levels in the lumbar spinal cord were significantly downregulated in the morphine tolerance mouse model. Specifically, decreased TIPE2 by morphine tolerance was primarily expressed in spinal neurons, while increased expression of spinal TIPE2 distinctly attenuated the chronic morphine antinociceptive tolerance and tolerance-associated hyperalgesia. We also observed that increased expression of spinal TIPE2 significantly reduced morphine tolerance-induced neuronal ROS production and apoptosis, along with the activation of MAPKs and NF-κB signaling pathways. Moreover, the increased TIPE2 expression inhibited neuronal activation and glial reactivity in the spinal dorsal horn after chronic morphine exposure. Additionally, TIPE2 overexpression in cultured SH-SY5Y cells significantly suppressed ROS production and apoptosis in response to morphine challenge. Therefore, we can conclude that the upregulation of spinal TIPE2 may attenuate the morphine antinociceptive tolerance via TIPE2-dependent downregulation of neuronal ROS, inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, suppression of MAPKs and NF-κB activation. TIPE2 may be a potential strategy for preventing morphine tolerance in the future studies and clinical settings. [Display omitted] • Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8-like 2 is downregulated during induction of morphine antinociceptive tolerance. • Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8-like 2 is an important negative regulator in morphine antinociceptive tolerance and tolerance-induced hyperalgesia. • Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8-like 2 reduces morphine-induced ROS accumulation and apoptosis in neurons. • Tumor necrosis factor-α-induced protein 8-like 2 may inhibit MAPKs and NF-κB activation to alleviate morphine antinociceptive tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family of transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides (collectively called MXenes) has been a thriving field since the first invention of Ti3C2Tx (MXene) in 2011. MXene is a new type of nanometer 2D sheet material, which exhibits great application potentials in various fields due to its multiple advantages such as high specific surface area, good electrical conductivity, and high mechanical strength. Electrocatalysis is regarded as the core of future clean energy conversion technologies, and MXene‐based materials provide inspiration for the design and preparation of electrocatalysts with high activity, high selectivity, and long loading life time. The applications of MXene‐based materials in electrocatalysis, including hydrogen evolution reaction, nitrogen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, carbon dioxide reduction reaction, and methanol oxidation reaction are summarized in this review. As a crucial session regarding experiments, the current safer and more environmentally friendly preparation methods of MXene are also discussed. Focusing on the materials design and enhancement methods, the key challenges and opportunities for MXene‐based materials as a next‐generation platform in both fundamental research and practical electrocatalysis applications are presented. This account serves to promote future efforts toward the development of MXenes and related materials in the electrocatalysis applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Application of an innovative combination model for the pyrolysis of OS is proposed. • The high heating rate is beneficial for the pyrolysis of OS. • A three-step thermal decomposition model is proposed to describe pyrolysis process. • Results will be useful for optimization of OS industrial pyrolysis and treatment. Oil sludge (OS) is one of the main waste in the petrochemical industry, and serious consequences can result from the improper disposal of this waste. Pyrolysis is an effective method to dispose of OS and to recover the high heating value combustibles from it. The pyrolysis of three OS samples was carried out in a nitrogen atmosphere at heating rates of 5 °C/min, 10 °C/min, and 20 °C/min, respectively. The TG-DTG/DSC-DDSC curves show that the thermal decomposition of OS has been divided into 5 stages, and each stage has unique thermal decomposition characteristics. Two model-free methods were used to calculate the apparent activation energy at a conversion rate from 0.05 to 0.95, and based on 10 solid-state mechanisms of thermal decomposition, the model-based method was used to fit the thermal decomposition mechanisms exposed to the three heating rates. The results show that the high heating rate is beneficial for the pyrolysis of OS. The apparent activation energy varies irregularly with the conversion rate, and the apparent activation energy error calculated by the FWO method is smaller. For the three samples, OS-1, OS-2 and OS-3, the average apparent activation energies calculated by the FWO method are 40.39 kJ/mol, 38.01 kJ/mol, and 85.53 kJ/mol, respectively. The mechanism function of OS thermal decomposition changed, and the process of thermal decomposition should be described by a three-step thermal decomposition model. During 140.48–331.88 °C, the fitting correlation coefficients of the two-dimensional phase interfacial reaction mechanism under the three heating rates were all above 0.99. During 400.00–556.57 °C, the fitting result of the three-dimensional nucleation and growth mechanism is better than fitting results of other models. During 583.82–676.60 °C, the two-dimensional diffusion mechanism has a good fitting regression. Significantly, model-based method and model-free method provide effective and reliable thermal decomposition kinetics parameters and models as a theoretical support for optimization of OS industrial pyrolysis and treatment of OS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Synthesis of ZnG@ZIF-8 composite using the ZnG as a single metal source. • The ZnG@ZIF-8 composite enhanced sustainability of the inhibitors. • The ZnG@ZIF-8/EP coatings displayed excellent corrosion resistance. The unique porous characteristic of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has been attracting significant attention for gas storage, catalysis and drug delivery. However, the studies regarding loading inhibitors into MOFs for metallic anti-corrosion applications are scarcely reported. Herein, a strategy based on encapsulating corrosion inhibitors into MOFs matrix has been developed, and their corrosion process and mechanism have been fully studied. Specifically, an environmentally friendly green corrosion inhibitor, zinc gluconate (ZnG), was selected as a metal resource for the preparation of ZIF-8 and then inherently intercalated into the porous ZIF-8. Various characterizations were carried out to confirm that zinc gluconate was successfully loaded into the ZIF-8 matrix. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization curves show the evidence that the prepared ZnG@ZIF-8/EP coatings display good metallic anti-corrosion performances. The probably protecting mechanism of ZnG@ZIF/EP coatings for magnesium alloy surface was thoroughly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the spatial and temporal characterization of soil properties, along with soil management practices, helps in analyzing soil properties changes and timely adjusting management patterns. Moreover, soil fertility evaluation within farmland is urgently needed for understanding soil fertility level and avoiding soil degradation. This study addressed the spatial and temporal changes of both soil properties and soil fertility, and their causes in a large grain-production area of China's subtropical plain, which has been used as the national commodity grain base for 35 years. In 2007 and 2017, 827 and 733 soil samples were collected across the area, respectively. Soil pH, organic matter (OM), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP) and available potassium (AK) were measured. The changes of soil properties were analyzed with the descriptive statistics methods and geostatistical methods, while the soil integrated fertility index (IFI) was calculated by the integrated fertility index method combined with the minimum data set method. In general, 2017 had a lower variability than 2007 for all properties except AP, and pH had a lower variability than other indicators. Differences of all indexes among 6 cropping systems and 2 crop years were significant, and oilseed rape-soybean cropping system performed better than other cropping systems in most indexes. Moreover, in 2007 there was a stronger spatial dependence than in 2017, and AP and OM had a stronger spatial dependence than other indicators. Mapping indicated that a more patchy distribution of all indicators was found in 2007 than in 2017. In addition, OM and AK in soil decreased substantially, and AN decreased slightly, but AP and pH increased. By principal component analysis and correlation analysis selected OM, AP and AK as soil IFI evaluation indexes, and their weights were determined. The IFI results showed that soil fertility declined in all areas, while the double rotation systems had higher soil fertility levels than the continuous single cropping systems. These results confirm that long-term scale planting can reduce spatial variability and dependence of properties and homogenize soil properties. Our findings demonstrated that the changes of cropping systems, the differences of fertilization and the reduction of acid rain were the three important reasons for the changes of soil properties and soil fertility in Jianli county in recent years. In this study area, effective measures should be taken to increase OM, AP and AK contents in soil. • Long-term scale planting can reduce spatial variability of soil properties. • OM, AP and AK are the potential factors restricting soil fertility. • Crop systems and acid rain are the main factors changing soil properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The medial prefrontal context (mPFC) plays pivotal roles in initiation, development, and maintenance of chronic pain, whereas the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive, which invited investigation of potential involvement of MKP1 in mPFC in mice in neuropathic pain, and its cellular and molecular mechanisms. Materials and methods: Neuropathic pain model was established in adult male Kunming mice via chronic constrictive injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. Paw withdrawal latency (PWL) was measured at the plantar area by radiant heat test. Stereotaxic microinjection was applied in mice as per the atlas of Mouse Brain in Stereotaxic Coordinates. mRNA levels of MKP1 in mPFC in CCI mice were assessed by RT-PCR; protein expressions of MKP1, p-p38, p-JNK and p-ERK in mPFC in CCI mice were analyzed by Western blotting, and expressions of the c-Fos in mPFC in CCI mice evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Moreover, Lenti-MKP1 particles or BCI treatment was employed to inhibit MKP1 in mPFC contralateral to the injury. Results: MKP1 was activated and persistently upregulated in mPFC neurons in CCI mice. Inhibition of MKP1 in the mPFC contralateral to the injury could reverse CCI-induced pain behavior and neuronal activity either via employment of Lenti-MKP1 particles or BCI treatment. MKP1 in the mPFC modulated neuropathic pain via dephosphorization of p38 and JNK1/2. Conclusion: The findings demonstrated that MKP1 in mPFC could play a paramount role in the modulation of neuropathic pain, which might be associated to the increased neuronal excitability in the mPFC and downregulated p-p38 and p-JNK expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birefringent materials, which can modulate the polarization of light, are almost exclusively limited to oxides. Peroxides have long been overlooked as birefringent materials, because they are usually not stable in air. Now, the first peroxide birefringent material Rb2VO(O2)2F is reported, the single crystals of which keep transparency after being exposed in the air for two weeks. Interestingly, Rb2VO(O2)2F does not feature an optimal anisotropic structure, but its birefringence (Δn=0.189 at 546 nm) exceeds those of the majority of oxides. According to the first‐principles calculations, this exceptional birefringence should be attributed to the strong electronic interactions between localized π orbital of O22− anions and V5+ 3d orbitals, which may be also favorable to the stability in the air for Rb2VO(O2)2F. These findings distinguish peroxides as a brand‐new class of birefringent materials that may possess birefringence superior to the traditional oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birefringent materials, which can modulate the polarization of light, are almost exclusively limited to oxides. Peroxides have long been overlooked as birefringent materials, because they are usually not stable in air. Now, the first peroxide birefringent material Rb2VO(O2)2F is reported, the single crystals of which keep transparency after being exposed in the air for two weeks. Interestingly, Rb2VO(O2)2F does not feature an optimal anisotropic structure, but its birefringence (Δn=0.189 at 546 nm) exceeds those of the majority of oxides. According to the first‐principles calculations, this exceptional birefringence should be attributed to the strong electronic interactions between localized π orbital of O22− anions and V5+ 3d orbitals, which may be also favorable to the stability in the air for Rb2VO(O2)2F. These findings distinguish peroxides as a brand‐new class of birefringent materials that may possess birefringence superior to the traditional oxides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major problems limits the applications of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is the high cost of hole transporting materials (HTMs) and noble metallic electrodes. For HTMs and noble-metal-free PSCs, carbon materials have been utilized as counter electrodes (CEs). In this paper, four kinds of ultra-low-cost bio-carbon materials have been applied and compared in PSCs. Results showed that the photovoltaic performance of PSCs based on different bio-carbon CEs was determined by the interfacial connection, work function (WF), sheet resistance, crystallinity, and morphology of these bio-carbons. The high PCE (12.82%) of PSCs based on bio-carbon CEs has been achieved in current state-of-the-art. PSCs based on bio-carbon CEs was more stable than that of conventional devices, which could retain 87% of their initial PCE after storing for 2000 h in room temperature. Our work proposes a new pathway for the exploration of low-cost bio-carbon materials and could accelerate the applications of PSCs based on carbon electrode. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimony(III) borates with a stereochemical active lone pair remained unknown, although the first antimony borate was reported more than twenty years ago. Now, the first antimony(III) borate in a closed system is successfully synthesized, namely SbB3O6. Remarkably, SbB3O6 not only exhibits an exceptional linear optical response, that is, birefringence of Δn=0.290 at the wavelength of 546 nm, which is the largest among borates, but also has a strong nonlinear optical response of 3.5 times larger than the benchmark KH2PO4, exceeding those of most borates. Theoretical calculations reveal that the coexistence of strong linear and nonlinear optical responses in SbB3O6 should be attributable to the synergistic effect of π‐conjugated B−O anionic groups and Sb3+ with stereochemically active lone pair. This work provides a new class of optical bi‐functional materials with potential prospects in integrated optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimony(III) borates with a stereochemical active lone pair remained unknown, although the first antimony borate was reported more than twenty years ago. Now, the first antimony(III) borate in a closed system is successfully synthesized, namely SbB3O6. Remarkably, SbB3O6 not only exhibits an exceptional linear optical response, that is, birefringence of Δn=0.290 at the wavelength of 546 nm, which is the largest among borates, but also has a strong nonlinear optical response of 3.5 times larger than the benchmark KH2PO4, exceeding those of most borates. Theoretical calculations reveal that the coexistence of strong linear and nonlinear optical responses in SbB3O6 should be attributable to the synergistic effect of π‐conjugated B−O anionic groups and Sb3+ with stereochemically active lone pair. This work provides a new class of optical bi‐functional materials with potential prospects in integrated optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species diversity of silicon (including traditional tetrahedral coordinated silicon and hypervalent penta‐ and hexa‐coordinate silicon) gives rise to the structural richness and diverse properties of silicates. Among these silicon species, hypervalent silicon is very rare, not to mention almost unexplored mixed‐anion hypervalent fluoroxosilicate species. In this work, we successfully obtained a mixed‐anion fluorooxosilicophosphate Na4Si2PO4F9 consisting of two uncommon hypervalent fluoroxosilicate species, namely, trans‐SiO2F4 species and SiOF5 species. To the best of our knowledge, such hypervalent silicon species are reported for the first time in inorganic compounds. Remarkably, the coexistence of two distinct hypervalent fluoroxosilicate species in one compound is somewhat conflicted with Pauling's parsimony rule, but it indeed achieves an unlikely connection by PO4 and our phonon dispersion calculation confirms the structure stability of Na4Si2PO4F9. Temperature‐dependent conductivity measurements show that Na4Si2PO4F9 is a promising solid ionic conductor with a high conductivity of 4.0×10−5 S⋅cm−1 at 700 K and a low active energy of about 53.1 KJ⋅mol−1. This work will enrich the structure chemistry of silicates and may provide a new platform for solid ionic batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in large river networks is an important carbon pool in the global biogeochemical cycle. DOC compositions vary spatially at global and regional scales, which influences DOC degradation and subsequent in-stream removal in river networks. The Changjiang River Network (CRN) is the third largest river system worldwide and plays an important role in DOC transformation and transportation. However, the relationships between DOC composition and degradation, as well as the quantification of in-stream removal, remain poorly understood. In this study, we chose the CRN to study spatial patterns of DOC fluorescence, as proxies for chemical composition, and degradation. Laboratory degradation experiments were conducted to explore DOC degradability and mechanisms of photodegradation and microbial respiration. We found that DOC fluorescence properties and degradation showed significant spatial differences in the lower reaches of the CRN. DOC with higher proportions of humic acid-like materials showed higher photodegradability. In degradation experiments, the total DOC loss was 49.1–66.0% over about the first 6 to 7 days. Microbial respiration removed 33.0–47.3% of total DOC, while photodegradation removed 9.0–35.3%. The relative contributions of photodegradation and microbial respiration to DOC degradation varied with different DOC fluorescence properties. The experimental values of DOC decay rate constants were 0.217–0.250 d−1. Our study improves understanding of DOC degradability, linking to its composition and providing a reference for estimating DOC in-stream removal in large river networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Riverine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is an important carbon pool in the global biogeochemical cycle. DOC transport in river networks involves three processes: DOC input (including DOC release from terrestrial ecosystems and in situ production in river networks), in‐river removal, and export through watershed outlets or estuaries. DOC transport in large river networks is gaining attention due to its important role in carbon and nutrient supply and CO2 emission, for example. However, quantifying DOC input to rivers and in‐river removal is still not properly understood. This study developed a synthesis model to quantify DOC transport in the Changjiang River Network (CRN) by coupling spiraling theory with Strahler river order. Our study suggested that the wetlands proportion and soil organic matter are valid parameters in a DOC model and our simulations showed that approximately 2.65–4.86 Tg C/year entered rivers and 1.16–2.12 Tg C/year was exported to the estuary as DOC, with a removal proportion of over 50% throughout the CRN in 1980–2015. The subbasins of the Dongting Lake, the Yichang‐Jiujiang section of the mainstream, and the Min‐Tuo River were primary contributors of DOC load, accounting for approximately 45% of the bulk DOC load of the CRN. The subbasins of Jinsha River and Yalong River in the upper reaches of the CRN and the subbasin of Wu River contributed less than 10% of the DOC load. DOC export by the CRN accounted for 0.3–1.2% of the global DOC flux from land to sea. Plain Language Summary: The transport of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in river networks is a key section of the global carbon biogeochemical cycle. DOC transport in river networks involves three processes: DOC input to rivers, in‐river removal, and export through estuaries, and these processes can be altered by human activity and climate change. We have developed a synthesis model to individually simulate these three processes of riverine DOC transport by coupling hydrological and biogeochemical processes and have applied our model to the Changjiang River Network. Our study is helpful in comprehensively understanding riverine DOC transport from land to estuaries in large river networks. Key Points: A synthesis model was developed to quantify DOC input to rivers, in‐river removal, and export to the estuary in the CRNThe DOC removal proportion slightly decreases with increasing river order and is 33.6–60.1% at the subbasin and entire CRN scalesAbout 1.47–2.71 t C·km−2·year−1 entered the rivers, and 0.64–1.18 t C·km−2·year−1 was exported by the CRN to the estuary as DOC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is an efficient strategy to convert solar energy into hydrogen energy, which is of significant importance to solve the issues of energies shortage and environmental pollution. Transition metal sulfides have been widely investigated owing to their high catalytic activity, appropriate band gap, and wide range of photo responsive capacity and low cost. At the same time, benefiting from their adjustable structure, high specific surface area and diverse metal centers, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising precursors to prepare transition metal sulfides. In this paper, recent progress of transition metal sulfide photocatalytic materials derived from MOFs for hydrogen evolution are summarized. The effects of metal centers, nanostructure and band gap of the metal sulfides on their photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency are discussed and the proposed reaction mechanisms are summarized. In addition, the challenges and development direction in this area are proposed to provide new guidance for the progress of MOFs-derived metal sulfides photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • The progress of transition metal sulfide derived from MOFs for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution are summarized. • The effects of metal centers, nanostructure and band gap on their photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency are discussed. • The photocatalytic reaction mechanisms are summarized. • The challenges and development direction in this area are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit length is a prominent agricultural trait during cucumber (Cucumis sativus) domestication and diversifying selection; however, the regulatory mechanisms of fruit elongation remain elusive. We identified two alleles of the FRUITFULL (FUL)–like MADS-box gene CsFUL1 with 3393C/A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism variation among 150 cucumber lines. Whereas CsFUL1A was specifically enriched in the long-fruited East Asian type cucumbers (China and Japan), the CsFUL1C allele was randomly distributed in cucumber populations, including wild and semiwild cucumbers. CsFUL1A knockdown led to further fruit elongation in cucumber, whereas elevated expression of CsFUL1A resulted in significantly shorter fruits. No effect on fruit elongation was detected when CsFUL1C expression was modulated, suggesting that CsFUL1A is a gain-of-function allele in long-fruited cucumber that acts as a repressor during diversifying selection of East Asian cucumbers. Furthermore, CsFUL1A binds to the CArG-box in the promoter region of SUPERMAN , a regulator of cell division and expansion, to repress its expression. Additionally, CsFUL1A inhibits the expression of auxin transporters PIN-FORMED1 (PIN1) and PIN7 , resulting in decreases in auxin accumulation in fruits. Together, our work identifies an agriculturally important allele and suggests a strategy for manipulating fruit length in cucumber breeding that involves modulation of CsFUL1A expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract MXene-based materials are promising electrode materials for supercapacitors. Herein, Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 nanosheets and/or nanoparticles are in-situ grown on the surface of two-dimensional (2D) Ti 3 C 2 to form Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composites during one-pot hydrothermal processing. The uniform distribution of Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 on Ti 3 C 2 is due to the electrostatic interaction between positively charged nickel ions and negatively charged Ti 3 C 2. Importantly, the electrochemical performance of Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 are enhanced. The 30-Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite electrode exhibits a specific capacity of 173.8 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 and excellent cycling stability (capacity retention of 80.1% after 5000 cycles at 10 A g−1). The hybrid supercapacitor using 30-Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite as positive electrode and active carbon as negative electrode delivers a high energy density of 28.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 374.8 W kg−1. The super performance of the composite electrode is attributed to the synergistic effects of good redox activity of Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 particles combined with high electronic conductivity of 2D Ti 3 C 2. The excellent electrochemical performance of Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite indicates its potential as a promising electrode material to high energy/power density energy storage devices. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • One-pot in-situ synthesis of Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite is explored. • Synergistic effects of Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 and Ti 3 C 2 enhance the electrochemical performance of composite. • The structure and property of Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite can be simply controlled by Ti 3 C 2 content. • The 30-Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 composite exhibits high specific capacity (173.8 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1) and good cycling stability. • The 30-Ti 3 C 2 /Ni 2 CO 3 (OH) 2 //AC hybrid supercapacitor exhibits high energy density of 28.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 374.8 W kg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To purify and characterize the glutathione binding protein GsiB of glutathione importer (GSI) in Escherichia coli (E. coli). Results. The coding sequence of GsiB was cloned from E. coli MG1655 and expressed in BL21(DE3). GsiB protein was expressed and purified to homogeneity using Ni-affinity and gel filtration chromatography. SDS-PAGE of purified GsiB showed a single protein band of molecular mass 56 kDa, while native gel showed two bands around 56 kDa and 110 kDa. Gene knockout showed that GsiB was essential for GSI mediated glutathione import. Interactions of GsiA, B, C, and D were determined using bacterial two-hybrid method. Without glutathione, GsiB showed no direct interaction with the other three proteins. However, GsiB could interact with GsiC and GsiD when using glutathione as sole sulfur source. Conclusions. GsiB functions in E. coli was characterized which could help elucidate the glutathione import mechanism in gram-negative bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report a series of carbon/nickel-based composites. The composites are prepared through a facile one-pot solution combustion method by using nickel nitrate hydrate (Ni(NO 3 ) 2 ·6H 2 O) as an oxidizer and glucose (C 6 H 12 O 6 ) as a fuel material. The phase, component and electrochemical capacitive behavior of the as-prepared samples are investigated. The component of the obtained composites could be simply controlled by changing the ratio of NO 3 − /C 6 H 12 O 6 . Novel C/Ni 3 (NO 3 ) 2 (OH) 4 composites are obtained at high molar ratio of NO 3 − /C 6 H 12 O 6 (larger than 9) for the first time. The as-prepared C/Ni 3 (NO 3 ) 2 (OH) 4 composite shows battery-type behavior and exhibits a specific capacity of 630 C g −1 (1260 F g −1 ) at the current density of 1 A g −1 , which is ca. 2–10 fold higher than those of C/NiO composite (414 C g −1 , 828 F g −1 ) and C/NiO/Ni composite (65 C g −1 , 129 F g −1 ). In addition, C/Ni 3 (NO 3 ) 2 (OH) 4 composite exhibits an excellent rate performance (448 C g −1 , 996 F g −1 at 10 A g −1 ) and good cyclic stability. The results indicate that the C/Ni 3 (NO 3 ) 2 (OH) 4 composite is a potential electrode material for electrochemical supercapacitor. This work also suggests that the solution combustion process is promising for large-scale production of materials for supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the present study, a novel highly sensitive magnetic enzyme chemiluminescence immunoassay (MECLIA) was developed to detect fumonisin B1 (FB1) in cereal samples. The gold‐coated magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4@Au, GoldMag) were used as solid phase carrier to develop a competitive CLIA for detecting FB1, in which FB1 in samples would compete with FB1‐ovalbumin coated on the surface of Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles for binding with FB1 antibodies. Successively, horseradish peroxidase labeled goat anti‐rabbit IgG (HRP‐IgG) was conjugated with FB1 antibodies on the microplate. In substrate solution containing luminol and H2O2, HRP‐IgG catalyzed luminol oxidation by H2O2, generating a high chemiluminescence signal. The FB1 immune GoldMag particles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and zeta potential analysis, etc. RESULTS: The concentrations and the reaction times of these immunoreagents were optimized to improve the performances of this method. The established method could detect as low as 0.027 ng mL–1 FB1 from 0.05 ng mL–1 to 25 ng mL–1, demonstrating little cross‐reaction (less than 2.4%) with other structurally related compounds. The average intrassay relative SD (RSD) (n = 6) was 3.4% and the average interassay RSD (n = 6) was 5.4%. This method was successfully applied for the determination of FB1 in corn and wheat and gave recoveries of between 98–110% and 91–105%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study suggest that the MECLIA approach has potential application for high‐throughput fumonisin screening in cereals. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Most of single‐component white‐light‐emitting materials focus on organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites, metal–organic frameworks, as well as all‐inorganic semiconductors. In this work, we successfully assembled an all‐inorganic layered perovskite by mixing two halogens of distinct ionic radii, namely, Rb2CdCl2I2, which emits “warm” white light with a high color rendering index of 88. To date, Rb2CdCl2I2 is the first single‐component white‐light‐emitting material with an all‐inorganic layered perovskite structure. Furthermore, Rb2CdCl2I2 is thermally highly stable up to 575 K. A series of luminescence measurements show that the white‐light emission arises from the lattice deformation, which are closely related to the [CdCl4I2]2− octahedra with high distortion from the distinct ionic radii of Cl and I. The first‐principles calculations reveal that both the Cl and I components make significant contributions to the electronic band structures of Rb2CdCl2I2. These findings indicate that mixing halogens is an effective route to design and synthesize new single‐component white‐light‐emitting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil microbial communities are important for ecological restoration and succession on mine tailings. In the present study, we performed Illumina sequencing to investigate the effects of long term Lespedeza bicolor revegetation on bacterial diversity and community structure in mine tailings under subtropical and moist climatic conditions. Microbial diversity indices (Shannon, OTU number and coverage estimator) of the revegetated soils were higher than that of the control, and increased over sampling period compared to the decreased pattern in the control. Species within known acid tolerant and nutrient regulated genera dominated both revegetated tailings and the control, and exhibited more abundant in the revegetated tailings. At the phylum level, percentage of the Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were remarkedly higher in revegetated tailings than that in the control, while Chloroflexi performed reversely. Overall, this study found the positive role of L. bicolor revegetation in bacterial diversity development in the acidic mine tailings. Furthermore, the 30-year L. bicolor revegetation made the microbial community structure more homogenizable as a decrease of dissimilarity in tailings was identified over sampling times. Redundancy analysis at the OTU level indicated that Olsen-P and pH were the main regulators of microbial composition, suggesting that soil P and pH are determinant for ecological restoration and microbial community development in acidic mine tailings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition-metal chalcogenides especially MoS 2 are promising candidates as highly efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Nevertheless, the low conductivity and inert basal planes of MoS 2 limit its performance. In addition, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalytic activity of MoS 2 is low. In this work, we report the synthesis of self-supported 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 nanoarrays for overall water splitting. 1 T-MoS 2 can enhance electron transfer during the reaction process. Meanwhile, abundant interfaces and defects exist in the heterogeneous catalysts, which can bring more active sites and result in strong interaction among the different components. As a result, the 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 nanoarray exhibits low overpotentials of 50 and 240 mV is achieved at 10 mA cm−2 for HER and OER with very high stability. In addition, it can catalyze overall water splitting with a low cell voltage of 1.55 V and 100% Faradic efficiency, demonstrating its practical applications. The present work offers a new route for developing 1 T-MoS 2 based hybrid electrocatalysts with desirable surface and interface structure for energy storage and conversion. [Display omitted] • Self-supported 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 nanoarrays was developed for overall water splitting. • The abundant interfaces and defects in 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 benefit its catalytic activity. • 1 T-MoS 2 can accelerate electron transfer during the catalytic process. • 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 exhibits low HER and OER overpotentials of 50 and 240 mV. • 1 T-MoS 2 /Co 3 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 can drive full water splitting at 1.55 V with 100% Faradic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • As-synthesized Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 naturally contains moderate concentration of oxygen vacancies. • Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 is highly active in piezocatalytic degradation of AO7, MO, RhB, MB and their mixture. • Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 shows superior environmental adaptability and stability. • Real textile wastewater can be efficiently degraded by Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15. Piezocatalyst with high and stable efficiency for multiple pollutants degradation shows great promise for practical applications but remains a challenge. Herein, a self-modified oxygen-deficient piezoelectric Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 catalyst is synthesized via a facile method, which demonstrates outstanding piezocatalytic properties. Investigations reveal that an optimal concentration of oxygen vacancies could increase carrier concentration, reduce the electronic impedance and enhance carrier's separation efficiency under ultrasonic vibration, leading to superior piezocatalytic performance. As a result, the typical pollutants acid orange 7, methyl orange, rhodamine B and methylene blue dyes can be efficiently degraded by 98, 95, 94 and 94 %, respectively, within 30 and 50 min (for the latter three dyes), and the acquired degradation efficiencies are higher than most of the previously reported piezocatalysts. Moreover, Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 displayed excellent degradation efficiency for mixed dyes solution with a high first-order rate constant k (0.072 min−1), which is higher than most of the reported piezocatalysts for just single dye degradation. In addition, the Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 catalyst possesses superior environmental adaptability and highly efficient degradation ability for real textile wastewater. This work provides a novel and comprehensive strategy for designing high performance oxygen-deficient piezocatalysts that can be further extended to other Bi-based oxides, and also demonstrates that Bi 5 Ti 3 FeO 15 is a promising eco-friendly and superior piezocatalyst for complex wastewater purification by harvesting mechanical energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-density genetic linkage maps based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are essential for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, trait-related gene identification, marker-assisted selection (MAS), genome assembly, and comparative genomic analysis in aquaculture fish species. Haploid (or gynogenesis) is an excellent germplasm target for mapping genetic linkage maps and MAS breeding. In this study, the high-density genetic linkage map of gynogenetic brown-marbled grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) based on genotyping by sequencing (GBS) technology was constructed using one F1 gynogenetic family composed of 164 gynogens and their female parents. A high-density linkage map of gynogenetic brown-marbled grouper was constructed with 19,301 SNPs located in 24 linkage groups (LGs). The genetic length of the consensus map was 2343.72 cM, with an average genetic length of 97.655 cM and an average marker interval of 0.12 cM. QTL mapping analysis revealed forty QTLs for body mass and ten phenotypic traits in 9 LGs. Multiple loci were found to be shared on LG3, LG8, LG11, LG16 and LG23, and several important growth-related candidate genes (e.g., mrc1 , adgrb3 , zbtb38 and adcy3), were identified within QTL regions. These vital SNPs and candidate genes may serve as useful genomic tools for marker-assisted selective breeding. Coupled breeding of MAS and artificial gynogenesis could provide a powerful method for genetic improvement in grouper breeding. • The genetic map based on Epinephelus fuscoguttatus , and gynogenetic progeny were constructed. • The genetic linkage map with an average resolution of 0.12 cM per locus was constructed using 19,301 SNPs. • Forty QTLs for eleven growth-related traits were identified on linkage groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe0.7Co0.3B films with a thickness of 100 nm were prepared by composition gradient sputtering on (100) single-crystal Si substrates. A considerable increase in uniaxial magnetic anisotropy fields Hk from 180.6 to 295.5 Oe was achieved by the gradient compositioninduced stress. Although the saturation magnetization 4\pi MS slightly decreases from 16.3 to 13.5 kG with the increase in the B concentration, the ferromagnetic frequency f\mathrm FMR increases from 4.82 to 5.62 GHz due to the domination of Hk . The X-ray absorption spectra revealed that the decrease in the 4\pi MS with B concentration can be attributed to the hybridization between Fe and B atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • (1 − x)BNT– x BFO solid solutions exhibits enhanced piezocatalytic degradation of MO. • The 0.5BNT–0.5BFO exhibits outstanding piezocatalytic performance and reusability. • Possible piezocatalytic reaction mechanism of 0.5BNT–0.5BFO was proposed. Piezocatalysis has received tremendous interest due to the catalytic effect can be triggered by mechanical vibration. Herein, (1 − x)Bi 0.5 Na 0.5 TiO 3 – x BiFeO 3 solid solution piezocatalysts were synthesized by a sol–gel method aim to improve the piezocatalytic activities of Bi 0.5 Na 0.5 TiO 3 (BNT) and BiFeO 3 (BFO). The piezocatalytic efficiencies of all obtained solid solution catalysts were improved compared with pure BNT and BFO for methyl orange (MO) degradation as expected. Among them, 0.5BNT–0.5BFO catalyst exhibited outstanding piezocatalytic activity and reusability, the reaction rate constant (0.0615 min−1) was about 5.2 and 3.2 times larger than that of BNT and BFO. Trapping experiments demonstrated that O 2 − and OH were the main species for MO degradation. Electrochemical measurements indicated that 0.5BNT–0.5BFO exhibited more efficient charge separation efficiency than that of BNT and BFO, which accounts for its efficient catalytic performance. A possible piezocatalytic reaction mechanism was proposed based on band structure and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection. This work provides a new perspective for designing highly efficient piezocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of plant disease resistance ( R ) genes encode proteins that share common structural features. However, the transcription activator-like effector (TALE)-associated executor type R genes show no considerable sequence homology to any known R genes. We adopted a map-based cloning approach and TALE-based technology to isolate and characterize Xa23 , a new executor R gene derived from wild rice ( Oryza rufipogon ) that confers an extremely broad spectrum of resistance to bacterial blight caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae ( Xoo ). Xa23 encodes a 113 amino acid protein that shares 50% identity with the known executor R protein XA10. The predicted transmembrane helices in XA23 also overlap with those of XA10. Unlike Xa10 , however, Xa23 transcription is specifically activated by AvrXa23, a TALE present in all examined Xoo field isolates. Moreover, the susceptible xa23 allele has an identical open reading frame of Xa23 but differs in promoter region by lacking the TALE binding element (EBE) for AvrXa23. XA23 can trigger a strong hypersensitive response in rice, tobacco, and tomato. Our results provide the first evidence that plant genomes have an executor R gene family of which members execute their function and spectrum of disease resistance by recognizing the cognate TALEs in the pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megasporogenesis is essential for female fertility, and requires the accomplishment of meiosis and the formation of functional megaspores. The inaccessibility and low abundance of female meiocytes make it particularly difficult to elucidate the molecular basis underlying megasporogenesis. We used high-throughput tag-sequencing analysis to identify genes expressed in female meiocytes ( FMs) by comparing gene expression profiles from wild-type ovules undergoing megasporogenesis with those from the spl mutant ovules, which lack megasporogenesis. A total of 862 genes were identified as FMs, with levels that are consistently reduced in spl ovules in two biological replicates. Fluorescence-assisted cell sorting followed by RNA-seq analysis of DMC1: GFP-labeled female meiocytes confirmed that 90% of the FMs are indeed detected in the female meiocyte protoplast profiling. We performed reverse genetic analysis of 120 candidate genes and identified four FM genes with a function in female meiosis progression in Arabidopsis. We further revealed that KLU, a putative cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, is involved in chromosome pairing during female meiosis, most likely by affecting the normal expression pattern of DMC1 in ovules during female meiosis. Our studies provide valuable information for functional genomic analyses of plant germline development as well as insights into meiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC nano polyhedron was synthesized using ZIF-67 as a precursor. • The Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 can significantly improve the OER catalytic activity of the catalyst. • The Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC-5 exhibits a low OER overpotential of 270 mV at 10 mA cm−2. • The Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC-5 exhibits a high ORR half-wave potential of 0.80 V. • The Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC can be used as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for Zn-air battery. A high effective bifunctional electrocatalyst was developed for rechargeable Zn-air batteries by rational integrating high active Co sites for ORR and Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 specie for OER. [Display omitted] To facilitate the development of rechargeable metal-air batteries, the exploration of high effective bifunctional electrocatalysts is essential. In this work, we report a facile strategy to synthesize N doped carbon (NC) encapsulated Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 (Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC) nano polyhedron using ZIF-67 as a precursor and investigated its catalytic performance for both oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The introduction of Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 into Co@NC can significantly improve the OER catalytic activity of the catalyst, while the high ORR catalytic activity of the catalyst is maintained. Specifically, Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC-5 shows a decent half-wave potential of 0.80 V for ORR, and a very low overpotential of 270 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for OER, demonstrating its bifunctional activity. The rechargeable Zn-air battery assembled using Co-Co 6 Mo 6 C 2 @NC-5 exhibits a maximum power density of 90.75 mW cm−2 and a high specific capacity of 768 mA h g−1, as well as good durability of 50 h without attenuation in performance, highlighting its practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High DOM chemodiversity is ubiquitous in all headwater streams and a large river. • S-containing and aliphatic compounds originate from rural domestic effluent. • Ecosystem respiration can be controlled by anthropogenic sources of DOM. • H/C of 1.07 and O/C of 0.37 were typical precursors of DBPs. • DOM with 151 to 635 Da was the main part that was hard to remove through degradation. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is a complicated assembly of organic molecules, including thousands of molecules with various structures and properties. However, how the stream DOM sources respond to carbon compositions and the transformation processes remains unclear. In this study, the chemical characteristics and spectral and mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) of DOM were analyzed. Six sampling points of headwater stream (HWSs) were sampled, and an effluent polluted stream (WSR) and a main stream of the Changjiang River (DT) were also sampled for comparison. In situ degradation experiments and FT-ICR MS analysis were also performed to observe the dynamic processes of DOM in HWS. The results showed that the anthropogenic markers of sewage (i.e. sulfur (S) compounds and marker from antibiotics and estrogen) in HWS were higher than those in DT. The molecular weight decreased while the degradation products (S-containing compounds and unsaturated compounds (HU)) increased after in situ degradation due to the influence of both the photodegradation and biodegradation process. In addition, the KMD plots showed that the DOM homologue intensities in range 400–600 Da changed significantly after demethylation by biodegradation. The components of highly refractory substances and the degradation degree of DOM in DT was higher than that in HWS. We extracted the refractory DOM pool in HWS, which was mainly small molecular with molecular weights < 600 Da. These molecular will be difficult to remove in traditional drinking water treatment processes and easily produced disinfection byproducts (DBPs). This study emphasized the necessity of identifying the sources and transformation processes of DOM in HWS and clarified the types and characteristics of DOM that should be considered in future drinking water treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of rare earth on the microstructures as well as properties of Al and its alloys has attracted great attention recently. However, contradictory results always were reported, some previous studies found that rare earth promoted the increment of the tensile properties of Al alloy, some other researchers though rare earth had no significant effect on the tensile properties or decreased the tensile properties. In the present work, the effects of minor rare earth element La on the solidification, aging behaviors and the tensile properties of Al-Mg-Si alloys have investigated by thermal analysis, microstructural characterizations and properties tests. The results demonstrate that the ultimate tensile strength and yield strength of Al-Mg-Si alloy can be increased by adding minor rare earth La. The effect mechanism of La has also been explored, it indicates that minor La enhances the strength of the Al-Mg-Si alloy by decreasing grain size and promoting the precipitation of (Mg, Si) phase. This study provides a way for manufacturing Al-Mg-Si alloys with excellent mechanical properties. • Trace La addition can refine α-Al and promote the precipitation of Mg 2 Si and β ′ phase. • Trace La addition significantly improve the mechanical properties of Al-Mg-Si alloy. • The effect mechanisms of trace La addition on Al-Mg-Si alloy have been clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A rapid, accurate CLEIA technique was developed for analysis and screening of the ENR residual in food samples. [•] Compared with the commonly used methods of HPLC and ELISA, the CLEIA method is more simple, specific, accurate and sensitive. [•] CLEIA method is suitable for rapid detection of a large number of samples and on-site screening. [•] A good and fresh clue was provided in this study for analysis and determination of residues of drugs in food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double current method is presented for absolute measurements of the current dependence (power variation) of dc resistors. Based on the resistance measurement principle of a direct current comparator (DCC), and adding another DCC-based extender with a turn ratio 1:1, the testing current in resistors to be tested is accurately doubled. Through three comparative measurements with two reference standard resistors connected in series as Kelvin resistive bridge inner arms, the change of resistance caused by doubling the currents is measured. Cyclically done, absolute measurement of current or power factor is realized. Examples of the current dependence of some commercial low-temperature coefficient 1 \Omega standard resistors are given using the presented method and their results are analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper describes the calculation of the magnetic shielding effectiveness in current comparators, considering the air gap which is inevitable for the magnetic shielding. The method was verified to be accurate and effective by finite-element method analysis. Experiments were implemented to investigate the effect of the air gap as well. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide due mainly to late diagnosis and poor prognosis. Aberrant promoter methylation is an important mechanism for silencing of tumor suppressor genes during carcinogenesis and a promising tool for the development of molecular biomarkers. Methods: We evaluated the p16, RASSF1A, and FHIT genes promoter methylation status in peripheral blood DNA between 200 lung cancer patients and 200 normal controls by using SYBR green-based quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP). Results: There were statistically significant differences in the methylation status of p16, RASSF1A, and FHIT between the cancer cases and controls (p16: P = .008, RASSF1A: P = .038, FHIT: P = .002). When the subjects were categorized into quartiles based on the genes methylation status, the risk of lung cancer was found to increase as methylation status increased (p16: Ptrend = .002, RASSF1A: Ptrend = .014, FHIT: Ptrend = .001). When the median of methylation status was used as the cutoff between high and low methylation status, individuals with high methylation status were at a significantly higher risk of lung cancer than those with low methylation status (p16: adjusted odds ratio = 1.597, P = .028; RASSF1A: adjusted odds ratio = 1.551, P = .039; FHIT: adjusted odds ratio = 1.763, P = .008). In addition, there were no significant correlations between p16, RASSF1A, or FHIT methylation status and gender ( P > .05), age ( P > .05), smoking history ( P > .05), histological type ( P > .05), or clinical stage ( P > .05). Conclusions: These results suggest that the high methylation statuses of p16, RASSF1A, or FHIT genes were associated with a significantly increased risk of lung cancer; the risk of lung cancer increased as the methylation status increased. Further investigation of their definitive usefulness in clinical practice is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: TiO2 nanoparticles have been widely explored as photocatalysts in the degradation of organic matters present in water. However, spontaneous agglomeration of TiO2 nanoparticles in a suspension is a crucial issue that must be addressed before the photocatalyst can be used for water treatment. In the present work, the nature of the agglomeration of TiO2 nanoparticles in aqueous suspension was investigated. Two approaches to minimize the agglomeration of colloidal TiO2 particles were investigated. A careful control over the pH of the system was found to be an effective method for stabilizing colloidal TiO2 particles and to significantly enhance the adsorption of orange II. As a result, the overall photocatalytic degradation rate was greatly accelerated. In addition to pH control, modification of TiO2 particles using polyelectrolyte poly allylamine hydrochloride (PAH) was observed to be an effective approach for preventing colloidal TiO2 particles from agglomeration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Theoretical and experimental investigations have demonstrated that full bandgaps are not easy to achieve in the face-centered cubic (fcc) unary and binary structures; even for unary inverse opals with high refractive index network, the bandgaps are not as large as 1D or 2D structures. In this work, we simulated the bandgap of a binary inverse opal, which is over 16% larger than that of a unary inverse crystal. Two kinds of binary colloidal crystals and their inverse structures have been fabricated by a horizontal deposition method. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effects of rare earth element on the microstructures, tensile properties and electrical properties of aluminum alloys have brought about widespread interesting in the last few decades. However, contradictory results are usually reported, and there is little research concerning the effect law of trace lanthanum (the addition is below 0.1 wt%) on the as-cast microstructures, electrical conductivity and the tensile properties of 8176 aluminum alloy which is one of the most widely used aluminum conductor alloy. In this work, solidification experiments were performed with 8176 aluminum alloy and the effects of lanthanum addition was investigated. The results demonstrated that the lanthanum addition can promote the refinement of the alpha Al grains, the modification of Al 13 Fe 4 intermetallic phase. The elongation and electrical conductivity simultaneously enhance with lanthanum addition when the additive amount is less than 0.08%, while the elongation decreases when the additive amount reaches to 0.1% due to the formation of intermetallic phase. The enhancement of the elongation is mainly ascribed to the modification of Al 13 Fe 4 intermetallic phase, the enhancement of the electrical conductivity is attributed to the reduction of solid solubility of Si and Fe elements in Al matrix. These results indicate that the addition of micro-alloying element lanthanum is a prospective method for simultaneously elevating the electrical conductivity and tensile properties of the 8176 aluminum alloy. • The elongation and electrical conductivity can be simultaneously improved by trace La addition. • Trace La can work as a surfactant and thus refine the α-Al grains. • Trace La modifies Al 13 Fe 4 phase by absorbing in the growth edges. • The improvement of elongation induced by trace La is ascribed to the modification of Al 13 Fe 4 phase. • The improvement of electrical conductivity is ascribed to the reduction of Si and Fe solute content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Theoretical calculation is an effective way for choosing corrosion inhibitors. • DFT and MD were used to study the effect of PEG and PAM. • The effect of degree of polymerization on adsorption behavior was studied. • The study may provide a theoretical basis and guidance for further experiments. Metal corrosion is an important technical problem often encountered in industrial production in various fields. One of the efficient and economical methods to effectively block corrosion is to add a corrosion inhibitor, which forms a protective film on the metal surface. Accordingly, environmentally friendly organic corrosion inhibitors have become research hotspots in recent years. Among them, polyorganic substances have been proved to be effective corrosion inhibitors; however, research on this topic is still scarce. In this study, (poly) ethylene glycol and (poly) acrylamide are investigated as polyorganic inhibitors by density functional theory and molecular dynamic simulation, and the effect of the degree of polymerization (DP) on the adsorption behavior on metal surfaces is theoretically analyzed. On the basis of a comprehensive evaluation of their stability and adsorption energy, the optimal DPs of these two inhibitors are determined. This work may provide a theoretical basis and guidance for further research of corrosion inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotube assembled coral-like ZnS@N, S co-doped carbon was synthesized by a facile and convenient method, and the material exhibits outstanding stability and rate performance as a sodium-ion batteries anode material. • Nanotube assembled coral-like ZnS@N, S co-doped carbon was synthesized. • ZnS@NSC-800 shows outstanding rate performance of 417.1 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1. • ZnS@NSC-800 also shows excellent cycling stability for SIBs. • The Na+ storage mechanism are mainly based on capacitive contribution. Developing advanced Na-host anode materials to enhance the stability and rate performance of Sodium Ion Batteries (SIBs) is the premises for their commercialization. Herein, we report a template method to prepare coral-like ZnS embedding in N, S co-doped carbon (ZnS@NSC) as an anode material for SIBs. The heteroatom doped carbon endows the materials with high conductivity and structure stability. The nanotube structure provides high specific area and adequate space for the volume expansion during charge/discharge process. The coral-like structure can further increase the mass transport. Therefore, the merits of the materials are fully utilized and thus outstanding sodium storage performances are achieved. To the best of our knowledge, the ZnS@NSC-800 shows the best rate performance (417.1 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) and cycling stability (98.4% capacity was retained after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1) to date. Combining with the high capacity, facile and convenient method, and the usage of low-cost and nontoxic raw materials, the material exhibits great potential for SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mechanism of NRR occurred on Ru/graphene catalysts were studied by DFT. • The effects of Ru atom numbers and Ru atom distribution on Ru/Gr were studied. • Provide guidance for the design and preparation of NRR catalysts. As a more common catalyst material in nitrogen reduction reactions (NRR), Ru has high activity and considerable catalytic performance, but it is expensive with scarce reserves. These factors limit the development of Ru in NRR, how to reduce costs and increase the utilization of precious metals is a problem facing the development of Ru-based catalysts. Graphene is considered as a promising carrier material, which can increase the specific surface area and dispersibility of the catalyst, thereby improving the utilization rate of materials. Therefore we combined these two materials and studied the mechanism of NRR occurred on Ru/graphene (Gr) catalysts by density functional theory (DFT) method. The effects of different numbers of Ru atoms and Ru atom distribution on the catalytic activity of Ru/Gr catalyst were calculated. A series of data such as the adsorption free energy and reaction path were obtained. The final results show that the double Ru supported graphite nitrogen doped Gr with single adsorption process and the three Ru supported pyrrole nitrogen doped Gr with double adsorption process have the best NRR activity. Compared with catalyst-free process, the presence of the catalyst effectively reduces the reaction energy barrier and improves the reaction activity. The research results provide guidance for the design and preparation of high-performance NRR catalysts to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]