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Gas-solid, gas-catalytic and physical applications in a fluidized bed require a strict control of the solids residence time and a limited back-mixing for a required conversion. Since conversion proceeds with residence time, this residence time and its distribution (RTD) are essential design parameters in fluidized bed modeling. The experiments of the present research investigate the use of a shallow cross-flow bubbling fluidized bed as reactor. A tracer stimulus response technique was used to determine the RTD, in a fluidized bed with and without internals. Experimental results were compared with fittings from several models. Although a cascade of perfectly mixed reactors or a plug flow with dispersion model can be applied, the latter is preferred, and the dispersion parameter, expressed as Peclet number, exceeds ∼25. The results are moreover used in a test case design of hexane devolatilization from rice bran cake. With the RTD model of the horizontal fluidized bed, and with batch kinetic experiments, the size of the desolventizer can be designed on the basis of the required residence time. The superficial fluidization velocity applied is normally 3–4 times U mf . A similar RTD-approach can be used for alternative physical processes (e.g. drying) and for chemical reactions (e.g. calcination of dolomite) provided kinetic data from batch experiments are known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extraction of vegetable oils is an energy-intensive process. It has moreover a significant environmental impact through hexane emissions and through the production of organic-loaded wastewater. A rice bran oil process was selected as the basis, since full data were available. By using Aspen Plus v8.2 simulation, with additional scripts, several improvements were examined, such as using heat exchanger networks, integrating a Vapor Recompression Heat Pump after the evaporation and stripping, and examining a nitrogen stripping of hexane in the rice bran meal desolventizing unit followed by a gas membrane to recover hexane. Energy savings by the different individual and combined improvements are calculated, and result in a 94.2% gain in steam consumption and a 73.8% overall energy saving. The power consumption of the membrane unit reduces the overall energy savings by about 5%. Hexane separation and enrichment by gas membranes facilitates its condensation and re-use, while achieving a reduction of hexane emissions by over 50%. Through the considerable reduction of required steam flow rates, 61% of waste water is eliminated, mostly as organic-loaded steam condensate. Through overall energy savings, 52% of related CO 2 emissions are eliminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key to achieve an economically more attractive concentrated solar power plant is to work at higher operating temperatures, allowing both higher power conversion efficiencies resulting in a smaller heliostat field for a given energy output, and higher temperature ranges in the storage tanks, with increased energy storage density and smaller size, hence less expensive. This fostered the development of using particle suspensions as heat transfer media. This paper presents a theoretical framework for the energy analysis of a particle-in-tube solar power plant, hybridized, with topping air-Brayton cycle turbine, and bottoming steam block. From studying the effects of essential design parameters on the energy efficiency, the heat transfer efficiency of the turbine air preheater is of paramount importance to increase the solar contribution within the hybrid concept, while the energy efficiency moreover increases by an optimum air-Brayton cycle turbine operation (mostly through the pressure ratio, less by the operating temperature). The overall efficiency of the concept varies from about 40% when using combined low and high pressure Brayton cycle turbines only, to over 48% in a fully combined air-steam concept. Energy efficiency findings are in agreement with the literature data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heavy menstrual bleeding is a common problem that can severely affect quality of life.Objectives: To compare bipolar radiofrequency endometrial ablation and thermal balloon ablation for heavy menstrual bleeding in terms of efficacy and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).Search Strategy: Online registries were systematically searched using relevant terms without language restriction from inception to November 24, 2016.Selection Criteria: Randomized control trials or cohort studies of women with heavy menstrual bleeding comparing the efficacy of two treatments were eligible.Data Collection and Analysis: Data were extracted. Results were expressed as risk ratios (RRs) or weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Main Results: Six studies involving 901 patients were included. Amenorrhea rate at 12 months was significantly higher after bipolar radiofrequency endometrial ablation than after thermal balloon ablation (RR 2.73, 95% CI 2.00-3.73). However, no difference at 12 months was noted for dysmenorrhea (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.68-1.58) or treatment failure (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.38-1.60). The only significant difference for HRQoL outcomes was for change in SAQ pleasure score (12 months: WMD -3.51, 95% CI -5.42 to -1.60).Conclusions: Bipolar radiofrequency endometrial ablation and thermal balloon ablation reduce menstrual loss and improve quality of life. However, bipolar radiofrequency endometrial ablation is more effective in terms of amenorrhea rate and SAQ pleasure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic steam reforming of ethanol (CSRE) is an attractive mode of producing hydrogen as an environmentally-friendly energy carrier. Ethanol can be produced from first-generation fermenting of cheap carbohydrates (e.g. non-food cassava and agricultural residues), and second-generation fermenting of biomass. The catalytic conversion of ethanol requires an appropriate catalyst, operating temperature, and reaction time. Supported noble metal catalysts were previously used. The present work uses novel non-noble catalysts. The most efficient catalysts were impregnated in α-Al 2 O 3 and fully characterized. The catalytic experiments were conducted between 500 °C and 600 °C in either electrically-heated fixed bed reactors, or in a solar-heated fluidized bed reactor. The main reaction products were H 2 (approximately 5.5 mol H 2 /mol ethanol), CO, CO 2 and CH 4. Deactivation of the Co/α-Al 2 O 3 catalyst was not observed. Negligible amounts of acetone and acetaldehyde were detected. A maximum hydrogen yield of over 95% was achieved. Pilot-scale investigations were started. [Display omitted] • New perspectives for renewable energy-based hydrogen production by catalytically converting bio-ethanol in the presence of steam (CSRE). • Test the most promising catalysts in isothermal electrically heated furnaces, and in a concentrated solar reactor. • Over 30 successive hours of CSRE were assessed with approximately 5.5 mol H 2 /mol ethanol produced. • Further scale-up with maximum heat recovery, H 2 upgrading, and H 2 use in a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and a 1 kg/h H 2 pilot facility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocelluloses, derived from various plants or specific bacteria, represent the renewable and sophisticated nano building blocks for emerging functional materials. Especially, the assembly of nanocelluloses as fibrous materials can mimic the structural organization of their natural counterparts to integrate various functions, thus holding great promise for potential applications in various fields, such as electrical device, fire retardance, sensing, medical antibiosis, and drug release. Due to the advantages of nanocelluloses, a variety of fibrous materials have been fabricated with the assistance of advanced techniques, and their applications have attracted great interest in the past decade. This review begins with an overview of nanocellulose properties followed by the historical development of assembling processes. There will be a focus on assembling techniques, including traditional methods (wet spinning, dry spinning, and electrostatic spinning) and advanced methods (self-assembly, microfluidic, and 3D printing). In particular, the design rules and various influencing factors of assembling processes related to the structure and function of fibrous materials are introduced and discussed in detail. Then, the emerging applications of these nanocellulose-based fibrous materials are highlighted. Finally, some perspectives, key opportunities, and critical challenges on future research trends within this field are proposed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) is an electricity generation technology with high potential. • Gas/solid suspensions as heat transfer fluid can be used throughout the full CSP plant. • A novel Upflow Bubbling Fluidized Bed (UBFB) receiver concept is presented and assessed. • Hot particulate heat carriers foster the use of advanced thermodynamic cycles in the power block. • Some scale-up challenges must be resolved, but prospects and economy of the system are positive. Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) is an electricity generation technology that concentrates solar irradiance through heliostats onto a small area, the receiver, where a heat transfer medium, currently a fluid (HTF), is used as heat carrier towards the heat storage and power block. It has been under the spotlight for a decade as one of the potential or promising renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Using gas/solid suspensions as heat transfer medium in CSP has been advocated for the first time in the 1980′s and this novel concept relies on its possible application throughout the full CSP plant, i.e., in heat harvesting, conveying, storage and re-use, where it offers major advantages in comparison with the common heat transfer fluids such as water/steam, thermal fluids or molten salt. Although the particle suspension has a lower heat capacity than molten salts, the particle-driven system can operate without temperature limitation (except for the maximum allowable wall temperature of the receiver tubes), and it can also operate with higher hot-cold temperature gradients. Suspension temperatures of over 800 °C can be tolerated and achieved, with additional high efficiency thermodynamic systems being applicable. The application of high temperature particulate heat carriers moreover expands the possible thermodynamic cycles from Rankine steam cycles to Brayton gas cycles and even to combined electricity generating cycles. This review paper deals with the development of the particle-driven CSP and assesses both its background fundamentals and its energy efficiency. Among the cited systems, batch and continuous operations with particle conveying loops are discussed. A short summary of relevant particle-related properties, and their use as heat transfer medium is included. Recent pilot plant experiments have demonstrated that a novel bubbling fluidized bed concept, the upflow bubbling fluidized bed (UBFB), recently adapted to use bubble rupture promoters and called dense upflow fluidized bed (DUFB), offers a considerable potential for use in a solar power tower plant for its excellent heat transfer at moderate to high receiver capacities. For all CSP applications with particle circulation, a major challenge remains the transfer of hot and colder particles among the different constituents of the CSP system (receiver to storage, power block and return loop to the top of the solar tower). Potential conveying modes are discussed and compared. Whereas in solar heat capture, bubbling fluidized beds, particle falling films, vortex and rotary furnaces, among others, seem appropriate, both moving beds and bubbling fluidized beds are recommended in the heat storage and re-use, and examined in the review. Common to all CSP applications are the thermodynamic cycles in the power block, where different secondary working fluids can be used to feed the turbines. These thermodynamic cycles are discussed in detail and the current or future most likely selections are presented. Since the use of a back up fuel is recommended for all CSP systems, the hybrid operation with the use of alternative fuel back-up is also included in the review. The review research is concluded by scale-up data and challenges, and provides a preliminary view into the prospects and the overall economy of the system. Market prospects for both novel concentrated solar power are expected to be excellent. Although the research provided lab- and pilot-scale based design methods and equations for the key unit operations of the novel solar power tower CSP concept, there is ample scope for future development of several topics, as finally recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of a large amount of anionic polyacrylamide (APAM) and sodium alkyl benzene sulfonate can induce the emulsified oil to acquire a stable emulsified colloid system in polymer flooding oily wastewater. However, for the traditional inorganic coagulants, such as polyaluminum, polyiron, etc., a relatively large number of bacteria will breed after oily sewage is treated for a specific period of time. Along these lines, in work, a new type of antibacterial polymeric aluminum silicate sulfate/sepiolite coagulant (PASS-H) was synthesized by using grafting hydrophobic antibacterial monomers in combination with coagulants composed of sepiolite as the base material for improving oily sewage purification. The structure and the surface morphology of the copolymer were systematically characterized, indicating that PASS-H was successfully synthesized. In addition, the coagulation performance of the polyaluminum silicate sulfate (PASS), modified sepiolite, and PASS-H during the treatment of polymer-containing oily wastewater was compared. In the coagulation experiments, PASS-H exhibited excellent turbidity, oil removal, and antibacterial properties. At 60 mg/L, the turbidity, oil removal rate, Zeta potentialand maximum floc size were 98%, 95%, 1.59 mv, and 26 μm, respectively. The mechanism of coagulation was thoroughly investigated based on the order of dosing, the tested water pH, Zeta potential, floc size, and the impact of the floc morphology on the coagulation. The coagulation behavior of the separate addition of the modified sepiolite and PASS was weaker than that induced by the one-time addition of PASS-H. Moreover, the enhanced charge neutralization, bridging adsorption, sweeping, and adsorption played a synergistic role in reducing the total amount of PASS-H and improving the coagulation ability. The introduction of antimicrobial monomers in PASS-H can also effectively inhibit the regeneration of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in the water. Finally, the residual turbidity and oil removal rate of the different coagulants were statistically analyzed. The extracted results have practical significance for both cost reduction and efficiency increase in large-scale applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current energy systems have a significant environmental impact and contribute to the climate change. The future energy systems must call upon clean and renewable sources, capable of producing energy with low CO 2 emission, hence partly decarbonizing the energy sector. Producing H 2 by catalytic steam reforming of methanol (CSRM) is gaining interest for its specific applications in fuel cells, in a decentralized H 2 production, or to locally boost the heat content of e.g. natural gas. Supported metal catalysts enhance the endothermic steam-driven methanol conversion. The paper discusses the CSRM manufactures and assesses 2 novel, cheap and efficient catalysts (Co/α-Al 2 O 3 and MnFe 2 O 4). The performance of the Co/α-Al 2 O 3 catalyst is significantly superior to MnFe 2 O 4. The methanol conversion exceeds 95% with high H 2 yields (>2.5 mol H 2 /mol CH 3 OH) and low CO and CO 2 by-product formation. The methanol reaction is very fast and a nearly constant product distribution is achieved for gas-catalyst contact times in excess of 0.3 s. The catalyst maintains its efficiency and selectivity for several days of reaction. The hydrogen productivity of the Co/α-Al 2 O 3 is about 0.9 L H 2 g cat −1 h−1., nearly a fourfold of the MnFe 2 O 4 alternative. The different occurring reactions are combined in a kinetics analysis and demonstrate the high rate of reaction and the predicted product distribution. A catalytic sintered metal fleece reactor is finally developed, mostly in view of its integration with a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). The assessed CSRM system clearly merits further pilot plant research. • The catalytic steam reforming of methanol is investigated. • Co/α-Al 2 O 3 and MnFe 2 O 4 were used as catalysts. • The yield is about 2.5 mol H 2 /mol CH 3 OH. CO and CO 2 are by-products. • No catalyst coking is observed. • The reaction rate is very high: complete CH 3 OH conversion is achieved within 0.3 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CaO and MgO are important industrial raw materials commonly produced by either the decomposition of calcium carbonate at about 900 °C, or the calcination of dolomite, a mixed calcium and magnesium carbonate, calcined either to MgO.CaCO 3 at about 750 °C, or to MgO.CaO at 900 °C. ln this research, the decomposition reaction of 104–147 μm dolomite and limestone particles was investigated, both without and with steam added to the reaction. A series of experiments was performed in terms of relevant parameters such as time, temperature and amount of H 2 O added. Reactants and reaction products were fully characterized and demonstrate the different morphology and specific surface area of the raw carbonate ores and the calcined oxides. Adding H 2 O during calcination has a significant positive effect. The calcination shows that steam can significantly accelerate the reaction rate, and reduce the decomposition temperature by ∼100 °C, thus reducing the cost of the decomposition by increasing the yield for a given reaction time, while also reducing the required sensible heat of the feedstock and combustion air. This ultimately reduces the amount of fossil fuel or alternative energy carriers, thus reducing the CO 2 footprint of the system. The improved operating conditions foster the use of concentrated solar calcination. The CO 2 footprint of the carbonate decomposition can be reduced by ∼4% in traditional kilns, and by as much as 20% if concentrated solar kilns are used. Both applications are currently investigated in pilot-scale operations. • Calcination of dolomite and limestone particles was studied, without and with adding steam. • Steam accelerates the reaction rate and reduces the calcination temperature by ∼100 °C. • Adding steam reduces the energy requirement, thus reducing the CO 2 footprint of the system. • CO 2 emissions are reduced by ∼4% in conventional kilns, and by ∼20% in solar kilns applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid, high-throughput and reliable methods are urgently required to accurately detect and monitor harmful algae, which are responsible for algal blooms, such as red and green tides. In this study, we successfully developed a multiplex PCR-based DNA microarray method capable of detecting nine harmful algal species simultaneously, namely Alexandrium tamarense, Gyrodinium instriatum, Heterosigma akashiwo, Karenia mikimotoi, Prorocentrum donghaiense, Prorocentrum minimum, Ulva compressa, Ulva ohnoi and Ulva prolifera. This method achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.5 ng of genomic DNA (orders of magnitude of the deci-nanogram range) in the tested algae cultures. Altogether, 230 field samples from ship ballast waters and seaport waters were used to evaluate the DNA microarray. The clinical sensitivity and specificity of the DNA microarray assay in detecting field samples were 96.4% and 90.9%, respectively, relative to conventional morphological methods. This indicated that this high-throughput, automatic, and specific method is well suited for the detection of algae in water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background aims: Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are a promising therapeutic option for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Myogenic differentiation occurs in the skeletal muscle of the mdx mouse (a mouse model of DMD) after BMSC transplantation. The transcription factor bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) plays a crucial role in growth regulation, differentiation and survival of many cell types, including BMSCs. We treated BMSCs with BMP4 or the BMP antagonist noggin to examine the effects of BMP signaling on the myogenic potential of BMSCs in mdx mice. Methods: We added BMP4 or noggin to cultured BMSCs under myogenic differentiation conditions. We then injected BMP4- or noggin-treated BMSCs into the muscles of mdx mice to determine their mvogenic potential. Results: We found that the expression levels of desmin and myosin heavy chain decreased after treating BMSCs with BMP4, whereas the expression levels of phosphorylated Smad, a downstream target of BMP4, were higher in these BMSCs than in the controls. Mdx mouse muscles injected with BMSCs pretreated with BMP4 showed decreased dystrophin expression and increased phosphorylated Smad levels compared with muscles injected with non-treated BMSCs. The opposite effects were seen after pretreatment with noggin, as expected. Conclusions: Our results identified BMP/Smad signaling as an essential negative regulator of promyogenic BMSC activity; inhibition of this pathway improved the efficiency of BMSC myogenic differentiation, which suggests that this pathway might serve as a target to regulate BMSC function for better myogenic differentiation during treatment of DMD and degenerative skeletal muscle diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Recent data in human and mice suggest that monocyte chemokine receptors CX3CR1 and CCR2 are involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Our previous study showed that hydrogen sulfide, a novel gaseous mediator hampered the progression of atherosclerosis in fat-fed apoE mice with downregulating CX3CR1 and CX3CL1 expressions. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the clinical association between endogenous HS metabolism and alterations of monocyte chemokine receptors in patients with cardiovascular disease. Therefore, in this study, we investigated circulating monocyte heterogeneity with differential expressions of CCR2 and CX3CR1 and its relevance to plasma HS level in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: Sixty-three CAD patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS, n = 46) or stable angina pectoris (SAP, n = 17) undergoing either percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary angiography and eleven non-CAD patients were enrolled in the study. Plasma levels of HS as well as chemokines (CCL2 and CX3CL1) and expressions of CCR2 and CX3CR1 on peripheral monocytes were measured. Results: It was found that plasma HS level was significantly reduced, whereas plasma CCL2 and CX3CL1 levels were substantially elevated in patients with ACS, as compared with patients with SAP or non-CAD patients. Furthermore, patients with ACS had significantly higher proportion of CD14CCR2CX3CR1 and CD14CCR2CX3CR1 monocytes but lower percentage of CD14CCR2CX3CR1 monocytes than SAP or non-CAD patients did. Lastly, plasma HS level showed a significantly negative correlation with the proportion of CD14CCR2CX3CR1 monocytes, but not other monocyte subsets. Conclusions: These data indicate that decreased endogenous HS production may predispose stable CAD patients to rupture of vulnerable plaque and thus to ACS, probably in relation to circulating monocyte phenotypic transformation with differential expressions of CCR2 and CX3CR1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decabrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE-209) is a persistent organic pollutant. Gestational exposure to PBDE-209 can accumulate in pregnant women and fetuses via the placenta and umbilical cord, affecting perinatal outcome. In this study, pregnant Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups and intragastrically administered peanut oil (vehicle) 1, 5 and 10 mg/kg by body weight (b.w.) of PBDE-209, or nothing (control) from day 0 (G0) to day 21 (G21) gestation, respectively. Placental samples were collected on G21 by cesarean section. The mRNA and protein expressions of ET-1, eNOS and iNOS in the placenta were examined using qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Total nitric oxide (NO) in the placenta was measured using a specific ELISA kit. Compared with the control and vehicle groups, the mRNA expression of ET-1 and iNOS in the placenta was gradually and significantly increased after exposure to increasing concentrations of PBDE-209 ( P < 0.05), while the mRNA level of eNOS in the placenta was gradually and significantly reduced after exposure to increasing concentrations of PBDE-209 ( P < 0.05). The expression trends of ET-1, eNOS and iNOS proteins were consistent with those of mRNA expression. Interestingly, the production of total NO was significantly increased after exposure to 5 and 10 mg/kg b.w. PBDE-209 ( P < 0.05). Finally, the birth weight of the offspring rats was significantly reduced after maternal exposure to 5 and 10 mg/kg b.w. PBDE-209 compared with the control and vehicle groups ( P < 0.05). These results suggest that PBDE-209 exposure during pregnancy upregulates ET-1 and iNOS expression, but decreases eNOS expression in the placenta, as well as reduces the birth weight of offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, we proposed GdTaO 4 as a promising high-density scintillator but the scintillation mechanism was still unknown. In this paper, we investigated the temperature-dependent luminescent properties of GdTaO 4 crystal. The emission spectra are characterized by a broad band composed of two Gaussian components located at ~2.2 eV and ~2.7 eV of 8–300 K, which are both thermally quenched with the activation energy of 156 meV and 175 meV, respectively. These two bands are believed to be from different luminescent centers, judging from the excitation spectra, thermal activation energy and decay curves. Additionally, it was also found that the annealing atmosphere exerts little influence on the luminescence intensity. Based on the results, we tentatively assigned the high-energy band to self-trapped excitons (STE) localized in TaO 4 3 − groups and the low-energy band to relaxed excitons related to lattice imperfections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S), as a newly identified gaseous mediator, has been widely investigated in various systems. However, the effect of H 2 S on cardiovascular system haemostasis, including platelet aggregation and the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, the present study was aimed to examine the inhibitory effect of H 2 S on human platelet aggregation in vitro and its relevance to gap junction channels. Methods and results The antiaggregatory property of H 2 S-releasing aspirin derivative (ACS14) was compared with its mother compound, aspirin. In comparison to an equimolar dose of aspirin, ACS14 not only exerted a more potent inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation induced by ADP or thrombin, but also significantly inhibited αIIbβ3 integrin activation and P-selectin expression. Similarly, NaHS (100 μM), a conventional H 2 S donor significantly inhibited platelet aggregation as well as αIIbβ3 integrin activation and P-selectin expression induced by ADP or thrombin. Furthermore, pretreatment with rotigaptide, a gap junction modifier abolished the inhibitory properties of ACS14 or NaHS on platelet aggregation, suggesting that suppression of platelet aggregation by H 2 S is, at least in part, gap junction channel-dependent. Conclusions H 2 S may inhibit human platelet aggregation at least in part by depressing gap junction intercellular communication and H 2 S released from ACS14 may contribute to its additional anti-platelet effect in vitro in comparison to aspirin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We assessed the therapeutic effect of iPSCs in experimental ICH rat. [•] Therapeutic effects of iPSCs in rat ICH model were observed. [•] The grafted iPSCs exhibited neural cell-specific biomarkers in the brain of ICH rats. [•] The levels of BDNF and VEGF were enhanced in the surrounding region of hematoma. [•] Functional improvement is partially due to neuronal replacement and neurophic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-Cu/H-MWCNTs composite coatings with outstanding corrosion resistance and high wear resistance were prepared by the pulse electrodeposition technology. The micro-surface morphology and corrosion behavior of the coatings were represented by high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy, potential polarization curve, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning electrochemical microscope. The chemical composition and crystal structure of the coatings were characterized by energy dispersive spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The mechanical properties are studied by digital microhardness tester and multifunctional material surface testing machine. We found that the successful doping of H-MWCNTs changed the micro-structure and morphology of the Ni-Cu-based coating, making the coating smoother and denser. Furthermore, the average crystallite size of the Ni-Cu/H-MWCNTs (0.5 g/l) composite coating is 13.28 nm. The microhardness and average friction coefficient of the composite coating (0.5 g/l) are 587.04 Hv and 0.178, respectively. It was also found that the composite coating (0.5 g/l) has the best anti-corrosion performance, which is 3.2 times that of the pristine Ni-Cu-based coating. Through SECM diagrams, the composite coating (0.5 g/l) has excellent pitting resistance in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution. The Ni-Cu/H-MWCNTs composite coatings were successfully prepared on the surface of J55 steel sheet by pulse electrodeposition technology. The Ni-Cu/H-MWCNTs nanocomposite coating prepared in the citrate bath with a concentration of 0.5 g/L H-MWCNTs has excellent corrosion resistance and wear resistance. The use of pulse electrodeposition technology can reduce the concentration polarization, so that the plating layer is more uniform, without pinholes, microcracks and other defects. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the effects of different pulse frequencies on the properties of Ni-W/B 4 C composite coatings are investigated in detail. First, we evaluate Ni-W coatings prepared from different bath compositions and select suitable electrolyte as bath solution. Then, the purchased boron carbide nanoparticles are characterized and their dispersion and suspension properties in bath electrolyte are verified. After that, Ni-W/B 4 C composite coatings are manufactured through different pulse frequencies (1, 10, 100 and 1000 Hz) and the prepared alloy coatings are characterized in detail. The results show that when the pulse frequency is increased from 1 Hz to 1000 Hz, the grain size of coatings decreases by 40%, the content of nickel in the coating decreases 3%, the content of W increases by 1.5%, the content of B 4 C particles is increased, and the roughness of the coating decreases significantly. In addition, the micro-hardness test, tensile test, impact test, bending test and reciprocating wear test are used to explore the mechanical properties of composite coatings, the water contact angle test and porosity test are used to study the surface properties, and the electrochemical test are adopted to predict the corrosion resistance. The results show that the composite coating prepared at 1000 Hz has the best mechanical properties, while the composite coating prepared at 100 Hz has the best corrosion resistance. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circulating endothelial cells (CECs) are markers of vascular damage that have clinical relevance in many diseases, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and may be predictors of treatment responses. Herein, we investigated the diagnostic and prognostic value of CEC monitoring in AMI patients and a murine model. Methodology/Principal Findings: CECs were defined as Hoechst 33342+/CD45−/CD31+/CD146+/CD133− in human blood samples and Hoechst 33342+/CD45−/CD31+/KDR+/CD117− in murine samples. To evaluate the validity and variability of our CEC detection system, peripheral blood samples of vascular endothelial growth factor-treated athymic nude mice and AMI patients were collected and subjected to intra-assay analysis. CEC detection by flow cytometry and real-time PCR were compared. Blood samples were obtained from 61 AMI patients, 45 healthy volunteers and 19 samples of the original AMI patients accepted one month treatment, via flow cytometry and expressed as a percentage of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: Our CEC detection method was validated and had limited variability. CEC concentrations were higher in AMI patients compared to healthy controls. One month post-treatment, CECs levels decreased significantly. Conclusions/Significance: CEC levels may be useful as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in AMI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: With alkaline phosphatase (ALP)–adamantane (AMPPD) system as the chemiluminescence (CL) detection system, a highly sensitive, specific and simple competitive chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay (CLEIA) was developed for the measurement of enrofloxacin (ENR). The physicochemical parameters, such as the chemiluminescent assay mediums, the dilution buffer of ENR–McAb, the volume of dilution buffer, the monoclonal antibody concentration, the incubation time, and other relevant variables of the immunoassay have been optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the detection linear range of 350–1000pg/mL and the detection limit of 0.24ng/mL were provided by the proposed method. The relative standard deviations were less than 15% for both intra and inter-assay precision. This method has been successfully applied to determine ENR in spiked samples with the recovery of 103%–96%. It showed that CLEIA was a good potential method in the analysis of residues of veterinary drugs after treatment of related diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The anti-hyperlipidemic and antioxidant effects of haw pectic oligosaccharide (HPOS) were investigated using a model of hyperlipidemia induced by a high-fat diet in mice. HPOS significantly lowered the serum levels of total cholesterol (p <0.01) and triglycerides (p <0.05) and inhibited the accumulation of body fat in this model. It significantly enhanced the activity of superoxide dismutase to suppress oxidative reactions (p <0.01) and inhibited the synthesis and accumulation of malondialdehyde in serum (p <0.05). Thus, HPOS could be valuable in the development of nutritional and drug therapies to combat cardiovascular diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on the tight-binding model of generalized honeycomb lattice on cylinder, the band structure changes induced by axial strain and twist are present for the signal-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The deformation-modified hopping amplitudes are dominated by the metric tensor and the curvature tensor. The analytical relations of the energy bands and the band gaps to both armchair and zigzag tubes are obtained. For the chiral nanotubes, we have successfully investigated the deformation-induced changes in band structure of individual nanotubes of known chiral index. The results in our model, returning to the undeformed tubes, are in good agreement with the previous experiments and theories. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We have earlier shown that mouse pancreatic acinar cells produce hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which plays a key role in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis (AP). H2S-dependent induction of inflammation is mediated by the activation of transcription factor NF-κB. We now provide evidence that activation of Src family kinases (SFKs) is crucial in signaling H2S-induced intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expression via NF-κB. Stimulation of acini with H2S resulted in a time-dependent activation of SFKs. In order to better understand this effect of H2S, acinar cells were stimulated with caerulein after addition of H2S donor, NaHS. Inhibition of SFKs impaired H2S-induced NF-κB activity and ICAM-1 expression in caerulein treated acinar cells. We also observed that H2S-induced up-regulation of ICAM-1 enhanced the adhesion of neutrophils onto acinar cells. Analysis of NF-κB pathway revealed that the effect of SFKs inhibition correlated with IκBα degradation and NF-κB DNA binding function. Interestingly, H2S-induced association of SFKs with translocation of NF-κB, and inhibition of SFKs prevented this response, indicating that this interaction may depend on activation of SFKs. These data suggest that H2S, by activating the phosphorylation of SFKs, may promote the transcriptional activity of NF-κB and eventually lead to an upregulation of ICAM-1 expression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The biological collection efficiencies of the portable BioStage impactor and the Reuter centrifugal sampler (RCS) High Flow were investigated when measuring bacteria and fungi concentrations in five different environments in Shanghai, China. The devices were operated simultaneously at flow rates of 28.3 and 100L/min, respectively, in the same environment for 5min. Air samples were taken three times (morning, afternoon and evening) for culturable microorganisms and the entire experiments were repeated three times. In addition, the efficiencies of collecting the total bacteria by each of the samplers using different sampling time were quantified by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Gel electrophoresis was used to analyze the resulting qPCR products. The results indicate that, in general, the portable BioStage impactor yielded higher culturable bacterial and fungal concentrations than the RCS High Flow. Paired t-tests indicate that the differences were statistically significant in most cases. The qPCR tests show that the efficiencies of the two samplers depend on the sampling time and the environment. Among other factors, the particle bounce, the sampling time, and the desiccation play major roles in the observed sampling differences between the samplers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The laminar α-ZrP nanosheets were synthesized through hydrothermal method and were added in the Ni W nanocomposite matrix act as reinforcement. The phase composition, microstructure, elemental composition and chemical circumstances of the composite matrix were analyzed by SEM, EDS, XRD, XPS and AFM. Vickers hardness test, and wear test were used to investigate the mechanical and surface properties of the composite coating. The wear characteristics of the deposited coating are studied in detail. The corrosion resistance of electroplating composite matrix was analyzed by EIS, potentiodynamic polarization and SECM. The testing displayed that the use of α-ZrP to the matrix can enhance the wear resistance, hardness and corrosion resistance of the electrodeposition coating. Among them, the optimal addition of α-ZrP nanosheets was 1 g/L, and the prepared nanocomposite matrix exhibited the excellent friction resistance, and the brilliant impedance value. • The Ni-W/laminar ZrP composite matrix is successfully manufactured via PED technology. • The composite matrix exhibits the brilliant anti-wear and anti-corrosion performance. • The enhancement mechanism of laminar ZrP particles in the alloy matrix has been explored in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Discovery of a novel ω-transaminase with a large S pocket. • Regulation of RBS strength from the substrate side to ease the inhibition of key enzymes by intermediate products. • Comparison of catalytic preparation of l -ABA by different amino donor decomposition systems. ω-transaminase can mediate the asymmetric synthesis of chiral amines from aldehydes and ketones, which has important value in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates. A novel ω-transaminase derived from Paracoccus pantotrophus (Pp TA) was obtained and cloned in E. coli BL21(DE3) for expression. The enzyme has high activity for 2-ketobutyric acid and benzylamine, as well as for aromatic compounds with side chains longer than ethyl aliphatic hydrocarbons. Molecular simulation showed that the S-pocket in the active center is larger than those of other ω-transaminases. Thereafter, a whole-cell catalytic system was designed to prepare l -2-aminobutyric acid by cascading Pp TA and other enzymes. By using several strategies (regulation of RBS intensity, by-product decomposition and cofactor self-sufficiency), whole-cell cascade biocatalysis showed a high ee value (> 99%) and high yield (71%) in one pot reaction. This study therefore proposes an efficient biocatalyst for the synthesis of unnatural amino acids with the participation of ω-transaminase. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-B/B 4 C composite coatings on N80 steel were achieved by pulsed electrodeposition (PED). The optimal condition for obtaining composite coating is investigated via studying the effects of different content B 4 C on the performance of Ni-B/B 4 C coatings, including the surface morphology, microstructure, hardness and electrochemical properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) were used to analyze the surface morphology, crystal morphology and element type and content of the composite coatings. The hardness of coatings was investigated by micro-hardness test. The electrochemical properties of coatings were demonstrated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM). Results show that the grain was uniformly deposited on the surface of N80 steel, and no pinholes and microcracks were captured. Besides, the average Vickers hardness of the Ni-B/B 4 C was the highest (1030.61 HV), and the average coefficient of friction (COF) is 0.22 (the average COF of Ni-B is 0.49). In 3.5 w % NaCl solution, Ni-B/B 4 C (2 g L−1) exhibits good corrosion resistance, with a corrosion voltage of − 0.30 − 0.010 + 0.010 V, and a corrosion current of − 1.15 − 0.220 + 0.219 μA. The Ni-B/B 4 C composite coating was prepared on the surface of N80 steel plate by pulse electrodeposition. Ni-B/B 4 C composites prepared in Watt-type baths, when the bath contains 2 g L−1 sub-micron B 4 C particles, the prepared Ni-B/B 4 C composite coatings have excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Pulse electrodeposition can reduce the concentration polarization, make the coating more uniform, without pinholes, micro-cracks and other defects. [Display omitted] • The Ni-B/B 4 C composite coatings are successfully fabricated by pulse electrodeposition technology. • The composite coating exhibited the excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance performance. • The deposition mechanism of alloy matrix with B 4 C particles is explored in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A well-designed and new type of sensitive surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active substrate is reported in the paper. The process, which is performed by using 5Å molecular sieves as templates and final removal of the templates, has considerable virtue of enormously enlarging the amount of contact spots between every pair of particles due to the formation of inner planar nanostructures. First, the ammine complexes of silver ions appear to adsorb on the molecular sieves, then reduced and coalescenced to form closed silver layers, and the 5Å molecular sieves are subsequently removed by using HF to produce nanostructure aggregations. It has the prominent advantages that the SERS peak intensity of the ∼1076cm−1 band of 4-mercaptophenol (4-MPH) adsorbed on Ag nanoaggreates is about 60 and 30 times greater than when it is adsorbed on silver nanoparticles coated on a glass substrate or on commercially available 2μm-sized silver (μAg) powders, respectively. The new SERS-active substrate is produced simply and cost-effectively, so it is expected to play a great role in the development of SERS-based analytical devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response syndrome in response to severe infection. An overwhelming systemic response brought about by the release of various inflammatory mediators can lead to shock, multiple organ damage and death. Cytokines play an important role in the pathogenesis of sepsis and are regulated by a complex network of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators. Various chemokines sequester neutrophils into the target organ, further augmenting inflammation. Chemokine receptor antagonism represents a major therapeutic approach against sepsis. Adhesion molecules mediate the migration of leukocytes towards the site of inflammation and their activation. Gaseous mediators such as nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide are also involved in the pathogenesis of inflammation. Our review summarizes the current understanding of the roles of various inflammatory mediators in sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of de-dusting hot gases is of increasing importance and growing interest, especially in advanced power generation systems and (petro-)chemical processes. High temperature de-dusting has advantages of exceeding dew points, enhancing energy recovery at higher temperatures, protecting the downstream heat recovery equipment from fouling or erosion, and potentially simplifying the overall process. Additional benefits are a reduced power consumption and the possibility to simultaneously capture gaseous pollutants (SO 2 , HCl) by the gas-solid reaction with injected alkali or by integrating catalysts to abate NO x , VOC (volatile organic compounds) and PCDD/F (polychlorinated dioxins and furans). Both porous ceramic and porous metal fiber filters have been proposed, with a growing preference for the rigid metal fibre filters. Either surface or depth filters are applied. The operation parameters of hot gas de-dusting by rigid fibre filters include the applied face velocity, the porosity of the filter fleece, its construction and the pulse jet cleaning performance. These parameters will be integrated into design equations to determine the operational pressure drop and filtration efficiency for a given gas flow rate, operating temperature, dust characteristics and pulse-jet cleaning mode. The broad range of potential applications of the filters prior to an energy recovery stage will be illustrated for petrochemical/chemical processes and for combustion and gasification. The expected durability and long-term successful operation necessitate a proper design of the filter media (porosity, pore size, thermal, mechanical and corrosion resistance). The appropriate fabrication materials will be evaluated, with stainless steel or high grade metal alloys recommended for use in the extreme conditions at high temperatures and pressures. Finally prospects and challenges are summarized. • Hot gas cleaning offers efficient pollutant control at a fair cost and fosters high efficiency energy recovery. • The design parameters and procedure using rigid filters will be presented. • Applications of such in petrochemical/chemical processes, and in the power generation are illustrated. • Various metal alloys such as Inconel®, Fecralloy® and Alloy HR can be used in extreme filtration conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In situ analysis of an industrial process by positron emission tomography (PET) • The 3D-PET gives insight into the adsorption of 11CO 2 tracer gas on zeolite and activated carbon. • It is demonstrated that PET can determine the kinetics of high-pressure CO 2 adsorption. • This work fosters further studies of systems where the gas–solid interaction is of primary importance. The in situ analysis of industrial processes, mostly conducted in opaque equipment is difficult. Whereas previously the positron emission technique was successfully applied to study the flow and mixing in gas–solid and liquid–solid systems using radio-active tracer particles, research on imaging a radio- active tracer gas is scarce. The present paper demonstrates the use of a fully three-dimensional (3D) Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in imaging the adsorption of 11CO 2 tracer gas, while validating the measurement by conventional exit gas analysis. It will be demonstrated that PET can be used to measure the kinetics of high-pressure CO 2 adsorption in situ , including the essential breakthrough and mass transfer zone characteristics. Such high-pressure operation is characteristic of pre-combustion CO 2 capturing processes. It is expected that this work will foster further studies of gas–solid systems of adsorption, gas–solid catalysis, gas–solid hydrodynamics, and processes where the gas–solid interaction is of primary importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Er3+-doped YSGG crystals with nine different concentrations were grown successfully by Czochralski (Cz) method. The absorption, emission spectra, and the fluorescence decay curves are investigated comparably. Based on Judd–Ofelt (J–O) theory, the J–O intensity parameters Ω t (t = 2, 4, 6), the experimental and theoretical oscillator strengths are calculated with the absorption spectra. The results show that the 1 at. % lowly Er3+-doped YSGG crystal is more properly used in up-conversion laser applications and 5 at. % Er:YSGG crystal is a better candidate for 1.5 μm lasers within these nine crystals, while the heavily Er3+-doped YSGG crystal is beneficial for the 2.7 μm laser output. But if the doping concentration goes too high, the up-conversion rate of the 4I 11/2 level could be higher than that of the 4I 13/2 level, which would lead to increasing the up-conversion emission and quenching the mid-infrared emission. The 2.79 μm laser performance of LD end-pumped 40 at. % Er:YSGG crystal is also demonstrated. • Er:YSGG crystals with nine different concentrations were grown by Cz method. • The luminescence properties of Er3+ in YSGG crystals are fully researched. • 1 at. % Er:YSGG crystal is more suitable for up-conversion laser applications. • 5 at. % Er:YSGG crystal is a better candidate for 1.5 μm lasers. • A maximum power of 409 mW is obtained at LD end-pumped 40 at. % Er:YSGG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major action to reduce CO 2 emissions is replacing fossil fuels by renewable energy sources. Matching the energy supply and demand by the mostly intermittent renewable resources (wind, solar, wave) is hence a hot topic, and energy storage has become crucial. Thermo-chemical energy storage (TCES) has a higher energy density than sensible and latent heat storage, and allows energy to be stored in the reaction products for multiple reuse and even off-site application. Design parameters are the equilibrium temperature, the reaction heat and the reaction rate, as obtained from both thermodynamic and kinetic assessments. Equilibrium temperatures of the selected metal oxides, Mn 2 O 3 /Mn 3 O 4 and Co 3 O 4 /CoO are between 1115 K and 1179 K. The present research studies both redox reactions as examples. Commercial Mn 2 O 3 and Co 3 O 4 were previously investigated in detail, and suffer from incomplete reversibility. The present study investigates the use of self-made Mn 2 O 3 and Co 3 O 4 mesoporous particles, of micrometer or nanometer scale, respectively. The average particle size of self-made Mn 2 O 3 particles is < 5 μm, with a BET surface area of 239.7 m2/g, and T eq of 1177 K at ambient pressure. Self-made Co 3 O 4 was of nano size, with average size of about 100 nm, a BET surface area of 54.2 m2/g, and T eq of 1109 K at ambient pressure. The redox reactions of these ultrafine particles are fast and nearly fully reversible. The effect of adding inert Al 2 O 3 or Fe 2 O 3 was also studied, but proven to offer no kinetic benefit, while reducing the reaction heat due to their inert additive character. The findings were used in the design of a 10 kW TCES pilot plant that is currently being tested in a concentrated solar furnace. Image 1 • Reducing the CO 2 emissions calls upon the use of renewable energy and its grid integration will involve energy storage. • Redox pairs of Mn 2 O 3 /Mn 3 O 4 and Co 3 O 4 /CoO were studied as potential TCES materials. • Mechanisms and kinetics of the reversible reactions were analyzed and assessed. • Both oxide pairs can operate as TCES materials in multiple redox cycles. • Their use in a concentrated solar pilot plant is illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, the substitution of fossil fuel by renewable energy sources is increasingly important. Matching energy supply and demand is however required, even more so if intermittent renewable energy sources are employed. Thermal energy storage then offers significant advantages. Thermo-chemical energy storage systems, using reversible reactions, have a high reaction enthalpy that exceeds the storage capacities of sensible and latent heat modes. Magnesium hydroxide is a candidate TCES material for such a system at temperature around 300 °C, and adaptable when doping Mg(OH) 2 with metal salts. Both pure Mg(OH) 2 and its composites with 1, 3, 6 and 10 wt% LiNO 3 are studied. The present work validates this TCES process and develops reaction rate equations needed for its design. The LiNO 3- doping significantly reduces the onset temperature of dehydration. For pure Mg(OH) 2 , the temperature is 325 °C. It is reduced to 289 °C when 1 wt% LiNO 3 is present, and further reduced to 269 °C at a dosage of 10 wt% LiNO 3. Whereas the dehydration of pure Mg(OH) 2 is slow, with a rate constant k of 1.72 10−5 s−1 at 300 °C, adding increasing amounts of LiNO 3 progressively increases the reaction rate constant to ~10−2 s−1 at 300 °C when 10 wt% LiNO 3 is present. The kinetic expressions enable to predict the conversion yield and amount of heat stored or released for any desired temperature and selected duration of the heat-induced dehydration. LiNO 3- doped Mg(OH) 2 have a high potential in TCES applications when the heat source is available at temperatures between 250 and 400 °C, since the equilibrium temperature and the extent of de-hydration Mg(OH) 2 can be tuned to the required temperature range by adding different wt% of LiNO 3. • Energy recovery from industrial waste gas is of growing importance. • LiNO 3 – doped Mg(OH) 2 compounds are promising TCES materials. • Adding LiNO 3 reduces net reaction heat but reaction temperature can be tuned. • The dehydration reaction rates are very fast when LiNO 3 is added. • Defined TCES parameters are needed to design a heat storage and regeneration system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The abatement of CO 2 emitted from combustion is a hot research topic. Current CO 2 capture techniques of adsorption, absorption, membrane separation and cryogenics involve high investment and operation costs. For moderate and high temperature exhaust gas, carbonation/decarbonation cycles offer an attractive alternative. An objective assessment method (screening index) was applied to select the most appropriate chemical reactions, with MgO and Mg(OH) 2 being screened as having the highest potential. Macro-thermogravimetric experiments determined a CO 2 capture yield between 60 and 70% for Mg(OH) 2 at temperatures between 260 and 330 °C, and from 85 to 98% for MgO at temperatures of 400–440 °C. Reaction rates were measured for both MgO–CO 2 and Mg(OH) 2 –CO 2. The reaction kinetics are best fitted by the Jander 3D-diffusion approach. The Arrhenius equation is applied to the reaction rate constant, and both its activation energy and pre-exponential factor are determined. Integrating the Jander expression in the reaction rate equation enables to predict the CO 2 -capture conversion for any selected temperature and/or contact time. Image 1 • CO 2 removal from combustion exhausts is environmentally required. • An objective screening index is proposed to rank possible sorbents. • CO 2 reduction with MgO and Mg(OH) 2 is examined theoretically and experimentally. • Reactions reach CO 2 capture yields of 60–70% for Mg(OH) 2 , and ≫90% for MgO. • Reaction rates can be represented by a Jander 3D-diffusional expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The 25 at. % Er:YSGG crystal with higher homogeneity was grown by Cz method. • A maximum power of 11.81 W with slope efficiency of 10.49% is realized at 500 Hz. • The laser center wavelength is located at 2794 nm and M2 x /M2 y are 7.01/7.10. • The Er:YSGG rod with concave end faces could be operated at high repetition rate. We demonstrate the laser performance of high repetition frequency on a 970 nm laser diode (LD) side-pumped Er:YSGG crystal rod with concave end faces. The laser performance under different repetition rates and pulse widths was studied with an optimal cavity length. The maximum average output power of 11.81 W operated at a repetition frequency of 500 Hz and 2.794 μm was achieved, corresponding to the slope efficiency of 10.49%. In addition, the beam quality factors M2 x /M2 y of 7.01/7.10 and far-field divergences Θ x /Θ y of 9.15/9.18 mrad were also obtained under the high repetition frequency of 500 Hz. These results show that the LD side-pumped Er:YSGG laser crystal rod with concave end faces has the potential of being operated under high repetition frequency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel composite photocatalyst Ag 3 VO 4 /ZIF-8 was prepared by a facile two-step method. It was characterized by XRD, SEM/EDS, TEM, EDX mapping, XPS, FT-IR, BET, UV–Vis DRS and PL, and its photocatalytic degradation activity of RhB was studied. The possible mechanism of photocatalytic degradation of RhB was put forward. The results illustrate that the specific surface area of a series of hybrid catalysts is larger than that of the single Ag 3 VO 4 material, and the photocatalytic efficiency of the composite catalyst is much higher than that of pure Ag 3 VO 4 and ZIF-8. Among them, the photocatalytic activity of 60%AZ composites is the highest, about 4.2 times of pure Ag 3 VO 4 and 22.8 times of bare ZIF-8 respectively. At the same time, the Ag 3 VO 4 /ZIF-8 composite photocatalyst can maintain a stable photocatalytic activity and structure after five cycles. Image 1030 • Ag 3 VO 4 /ZIF-8 nanoparticles were acted as an effective photocatalysts. • -Ag 3 VO 4 /ZIF-8 exhibits enhanced photocatalytic activity compared with two pure materials. • The mechanism of the enhanced photocatalytic performance was discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A continuum theoretical scheme for self equilibrium, self bending and symmetry lowering of nanofilms was obtained by considering surface elasticity, surface stress and the corresponding surface slice thickness. When surface stress and surface elasticity are both balance, the nanofilm is simply compressed (or expanded). When the surface stress or surface elasticity is imbalance, the nanofilm will bend. On the other hand, surface stress and surface elasticity imbalances induce a nanofilm to curl into a nanotube when the nanofilm is very thin. The surface stress and surface elasticity balances induce uniform in-plane strain (the overall film relaxation), while the vertical direction of the nanofilm relaxes reversely due to Poisson's effect. And then, the crystal lattice constants of in-plane and vertical directions are different from each other, the ratio of these two lattice constants decrease with film thickness increase. Hence, the symmetry of the nanofilm is lowered by the overall film relaxation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel, highly efficient and environmentally friendly ternary composites flocculant, namely, cationic starch-grafted-cationic polyacrylamide/graphene oxide (CS-g-CPAM/GO), was synthesized by ammonium persulfate initiation polymerization and condensation reaction. First, CS-g-CPAM was polymerized with cationic starch (CS), acrylamide (AM) and diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DMDAAC), and CS-g-CPAM/GO was then synthesized by condensation reaction. The influence factors of graft polymerization were investigated, including total monomer concentration, initiator dosage, monomer mass ratio of m AM : m CS : m DMDAAC , post-polymerization temperature and post-polymerization time. The chemical structures and morphologies of the samples were characterized by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermo-gravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The CS-g-CPAM/GO was used to flocculate the oil sludge suspension, the effects of CS-g-CPAM/GO dosage, temperature and pH value on the flocculation performance were investigated, and the flocculation mechanism of CS-g-CPAM/GO was also analyzed. The results show that CS-g-CPAM/GO has outstanding flocculation effect, and CS-g-CPAM/GO flocculates oil sludge particles by adsorption bridging and charge neutralization in acidic and alkaline conditions. Image 1 • Novel CS-g-CPAM/GO flocculants were synthesized. • Chemical structures were characterized and analyzed. • Flocculation mechanism were summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is mostly emitted from coal-fueled power plants, from waste incineration, from sulphuric acid manufacturing, from clay brick plants and from treating nonferrous metals. The emission of SO2 needs to be abated. Both wet scrubbing (absorption) and dry or semi-dry (reaction) systems are used. In the dry process, both bubbling and circulating fluidized beds (BFB, CFB) can be used as contactor. Experimental results demonstrate a SO2-removal efficiency in excess of 94% in a CFB application. A general model of the heterogeneous reaction is proposed, combining the external diffusion of SO2 across the gas film, the internal diffusion of SO2 in the porous particles and the reaction as such (irreversible, 1st order). For the reaction of SO2 with a fine particulate reactant, the reaction rate constant and the relevant contact time are the dominant parameters. Application of the model equations reveals that the circulating fluidized bed is the most appropriate technique, where the high solid to gas ratio guarantees a high conversion in a short reaction time. For the CFB operation, the required gas contact time in a CFB at given superficial gas velocities and solids circulation rates will determine the SO2 removal rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measuring chlorophyll fluorescence is a direct and non-destructive way to monitor vegetation. In this paper, the fluorescence retrieval methods from multiple scales, ranging from near the ground to the use of space-borne sensors, are analyzed and summarized in detail. At the leaf-scale, the chlorophyll fluorescence is measured using active and passive technology. Active remote sensing technology uses a fluorimeter to measure the chlorophyll fluorescence, and passive remote sensing technology mainly depends on the sun-induced chlorophyll fluorescence filling in the Fraunhofer lines or oxygen absorptions bands. Based on these retrieval principles, many retrieval methods have been developed, including the radiance-based methods and the reflectance-based methods near the ground, as well as physically and statistically-based methods that make use of satellite data. The advantages and disadvantages of different approaches for sun-induced chlorophyll fluorescence retrieval are compared and the key issues of the current sun-induced chlorophyll fluorescence retrieval algorithms are discussed. Finally, conclusions and key problems are proposed for the future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]