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Abstract: In order to deepen the understanding of the cation–anion interaction in ionic liquids, the structures of cation, anions, and cation–anion ion-pairs of 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium-based ionic liquids are optimized using density functional theory (DFT), and their most stable geometries are discussed. The structural parameters, hydrogen bonds and interaction energies of 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide ([Amim]DCA), 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([Amim]Cl), 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium formate ([Amim]FmO) and 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ([Amim]AcO) ion pairs are studied. The vibrational frequencies of [Amim]DCA and [Amim]Cl have been calculated and scaled values have been compared with experimental FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra. The complete assignments were performed on the basis of the potential energy distribution (PED) of the vibrational modes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Studies that have examined schizotypal personality traits using self-reported measures have found gender differences in the expression and degree of schizotypy. Despite the reported presence of schizotypal traits in Asian populations, putative gender differences have been almost entirely derived from studies of Western populations. This study examined the gender effect of schizotypy in a broad sample of the Chinese population in Singapore using the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ). The questionnaire was administered to 538 (308 males and 230 females) subjects (age range of 21–55). As with previous studies, gender differences were related to the presence of negative schizotypal personality traits, namely No Close Friends and Constricted Affect. The spectrum of differences in schizotypy was also extended to the psychosocial sphere as marital status and years of education were significantly associated with several SPQ domains. The findings suggest that there are common elements in Asian and Caucasian populations and that psychosocial risk is an important correlate of schizotypy. The implications of gender differences in the aetiology of schizophrenia spectrum disorders are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mongolian gerbil is a distinctive experimental animal in China, as its genetic qualities possess significant value in the field of medical biology research. Here, we aimed to establish an economical and efficient panel for genetic quality detection in Mongolian gerbils using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. To search for SNPs, we conducted whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in 40 Mongolian gerbils from outbred populations. Reliable screening criteria were established to preliminarily select SNPs with a wide genome distribution and high levels of polymorphism. Subsequently, a multiple-target regional capture detection system based on second-generation sequencing was developed for SNP genotyping. Based on the results of WGS, 219 SNPs were preliminarily selected, and they were established and optimized in a multiple-amplification system that included 206 SNP loci by genotyping three outbred populations. PopGen.32 analysis revealed that the average effective allele number, Shannon index, observed heterozygosity, expected heterozygosity, average heterozygosity, polymorphism information content, and other population genetic parameters of the Capital Medical University (CMU) gerbils were the highest, followed by those of Zhejiang gerbils and Dalian gerbils. Through scientific screening and optimization, we successfully established a novel, robust, and cost-effective genetic detection system for Mongolian gerbils by utilizing SNP markers for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) batteries have many advantages but still face problems such as retarded polysulfides redox kinetics and Li dendrite growth. Most reported single atom catalysts (SACs) for Li−S batteries are based on d‐band transition metals whose d orbital constitutes active valence band, which is inclined to occur catalyst passivation. SACs based on 4f inner valence orbital of rare earth metals are challenging for their great difficulty to be activated. In this work, we design and synthesize the first rare earth metal Sm SACs which has electron‐rich 4f inner orbital to promote catalytic conversion of polysulfides and uniform deposition of Li. Sm SACs enhance the catalysis by the activated 4f orbital through an f‐d‐p orbital hybridization. Using Sm‐N3C3 modified separators, the half cells deliver a high capacity over 600 mAh g−1 and a retention rate of 84.3 % after 2000 cycles. The fabricated Sm‐N3C3‐Li|Sm‐N3C3@PP|S/CNTs full batteries can provide an ultra‐stable cycling performance of a retention rate of 80.6 % at 0.2 C after 100 cycles, one of the best full Li−S batteries. This work provides a new perspective for the development of rare earth metal single atom catalysis in electrochemical reactions of Li−S batteries and other electrochemical systems for next‐generation energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped porous carbon (NPC) has a rich microporous structure and nitrogen-rich units, and its nitrogen-containing group can interact strongly with the PEO chain segment of Pebax, synergistically improving its CO2 adsorption ability and interface compatibility. This work prepared three types of triazine-based NPCs with mesoporous and high N-content and added NPCs to Pebax-2533 to prepare NPC/Pebax-2533 MMMs. The effects of N-type, N-content, and pore structure of NPCs on the gas separation performance of MMMs were studied. Constructing a continuous meso-microporous structure within the membrane and adding alkaline N-containing groups were beneficial for promoting rapid CO2 transport. Among the three NPCs, NPC-1/Pebax MMMs prepared using NPC-1 with the highest N-content (10.91%) and suitable pore structure exhibited the best gas separation performance. To investigate the gas transport mechanism of NPC in MMMs, NPC-1 was added to Pebax-2533 and Pebax-1657. The permeability of 3NPC-1/Pebax-2533 MMMs and 0.5NPC-1/Pebax-1657 MMMs reached 423 Barrer and 178 Barrer, with a CO2/N2 selectivity of 61 and 75.8, respectively, both higher than the Pebax-2533 and Pebax-1657. Adding NPC-1 to Pebax-2533 and Pebax-1657 increased the solubility and diffusivity coefficient of MMMs by 40 ~ 80%, and the gas separation performance did not rapidly decrease after long-term stability of 120 h (15%CO2/N2). Compared with NPC-1/Pebax-1657 MMMs, NPC-1/Pebax-2533 MMMs had higher CO2 permeability, mechanical properties, solubility, and diffusivity coefficient. The above results indicated that NPC was more suitable for Pebax-2533. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the newly constructed entangled state representation embodying quantum entanglement of Einstein, Podolsky and Rosen, the usual wave function of atomic coherent state ∣τ〉 = exp(μJ+-μ*J-)∣j, -j〉 turns out to be just proportional to a single-variable ordinary Hermite polynomial of order 2j, where j is the spin value. We then prove that a two-dimensional time-independent anisotropic harmonic oscillator in a uniform magnetic field possesses energy eigenstates which can be classified as the states ∣τ〉 in terms of the spin values j. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we obtain the Wigner functions of two-variable Hermite polynomial states (THPS) and their marginal distribution using the entangled state |ξ〉 representation. Also we obtain tomogram of THPS by virtue of the Radon transformation between the Wigner operator and the projection operator of another entangled state | η, τ 1, τ 2〉. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report magnetic measurements up to 1200 K on iron-contaminated multi-walled carbon nanotube mats with a Quantum Design vibrating sample magnetometer. Extensive magnetic data consistently show a ferrromagnetic transition at about 1000 K and a ferromagnetic-like transition at about 1275 K. The ferromagnetic transition at about 1000 K is associated with an Fe impurity phase and its saturation magnetization is in quantitative agreement with the Fe concentration measured by an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. On the other hand, the saturation magnetization for the ferromagnetic-like phase (at 1275 K) is about four orders of magnitude larger than that expected from the measured concentration of Co or CoFe. We show that this ultrahigh-temperature ferromagnetic-like behavior cannot be explained by ferromagnetism of any Fe-carbon phases, carbon-based phases, or magnetic impurities, but is consistent with the paramagnetic Meissner effect (orbital ferromagnetism) due to the existence of π Josephson junctions in a granular superconductor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the entangled state representation of Wigner operator and some formulae related to the two-variable Hermite polynomials, the Wigner function of the squeezed pair coherent state (SPCS) and its two marginal distributions are derived. Based on the entangled Husimi operator introduced by Fan et al. (Phys. Lett. A 358:203, ) and the Weyl ordering invariance under similar transformations, we also obtain the Husimi function of the SPCS and its marginal distribution functions. The comparison between the two quasibability functions shows that, for the same amount of information included in two functions, the solving process of the Husimi function is simpler than that of the Wigner function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cycloadditions of alkynyl ketones with N-tosylimines catalyzed by Lewis bases to synthesize azetidines and pyrrolidines were systematically described. In the reaction of alkynyl ketones with N-tosylimines catalyzed by Bu3P at room temperature in toluene, highly functionalized pyrrolidines were formed in good to excellent yields. When DMAP was used in place of Bu3P as catalyst to facilitate the cycloaddition, completely substituted azetidines were produced in moderate to good yields in CH2Cl2. Both cyclization reactions proceeded smoothly with complete stereoselectivity. The scope and limitations of these cycloadditon reactions were also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A line array of microplasma devices with coplanar electrodes has been fabricated, and the discharge characteristics of the microplasma devices under different argon pressures were investigated in experiments which were driven by sinusoidal voltage and alternating pulse voltage, respectively. The microcavities of the proposed device are composed of two coplanar electrodes instead of dielectric or single cathode. The voltage-current characteristics of the device driven by sinusoidal voltage show that the power loading of each microcavity could reach several kilowatts per cubic centimeter. Driven by alternating pulse voltage, the device performed a trend that the discharge current grows up first and then goes down gradually with the increase of operation pressure. Moreover, with the increase of driven frequency, the device operated with high discharge stability on both time and intensity. The proposed device possesses the advantages of simple structure and simple fabrication processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The reversibility index R M of aging and rejuvenation of modified asphalt is proposed. • R M can be used to evaluate the effect of different rejuvenators. • R M can characterize the recovery of rheological properties of asphalt. • The aging and rejuvenation process of virgin and modified asphalt is different. In order to study the reversibility between aging and rejuvenation of modified asphalt binder, a kind of virgin asphalt was selected, and then three kinds of modified asphalt were prepared based on this virgin asphalt. The short-term and long-term aging tests were carried out for the four asphalts. Then three kinds of rejuvenation tests were carried out for the aged asphalt, including commercial rejuvenator, aromatic oil and warm mix rejuvenator. Dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) was used to carry out frequency scanning tests at different temperatures. According to the principle of time temperature equivalence, the master curves of different modified asphalts were constructed, and the rheological properties of asphalt during aging and rejuvenation were studied. By comparing the parameters including complex modulus and hardening index, the rejuvenation effects of viscoelastic properties of modified asphalt were evaluated. Based on the complex modulus of virgin asphalt and modified asphalt, the aging rejuvenation reversible index R M of modified asphalt is proposed to evaluate the recovery of rheological properties of asphalt by different rejuvenators. The results show that the modulus of three kinds of modified asphalt will increase with the deepening of aging. Warm mix rejuvenator can reduce the complex modulus of virgin asphalt, SBS modified asphalt and rubber powder modified asphalt most significantly, followed by the rejuvenator, and the aromatics oil reduced least obviously. This applied to both short-term aging and long-term aging. This research provides a better understanding on the effectiveness and limitation of current rejuvenation techniques and rejuvenators on common asphalts, which is good for the further improvement on production and techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Staphylococcus aureus induces inflammatory cytokines and causes skin inflammatory diseases, but infection parameters leading to cytokine induction are poorly understood in keratinocytes, the primary skin cells to interface with S. aureus. Methods Human primary keratinocytes were infected with S. aureus under various conditions to identify properties of infection that cause the induction of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a proinflammatory cytokine that initiates host inflammatory responses. Results Staphylococcus aureus induced TNF-α mRNA and protein in a dose-dependent manner. Cytochalasin D, an inhibitor of actin polymerization and S. aureus invasion, failed to prevent the induction of TNF-α, indicating that invasion was not a requirement. Furthermore, ultraviolet-, heat-, and gentamicin-treated bacteria did not induce TNF-α, suggesting that de novo bacterial protein synthesis of viable bacteria was required. Finally, S. aureus infection of primary human keratinocytes also led to an induction of the TNF-α receptor, TNFR1 (p55). Conclusion Early (preinvasion) S. aureus–keratinocyte surface interactions that require protein synthesis induce TNF-α. Bacterial surface components embedded within the cell wall do not suffice as TNF-α mediators, but require active protein synthesis and/or the accompaniment of secreted bacterial products. Furthermore, S. aureus infection leads to the specific induction of the TNF-α receptor TNFR1, but not TNFR2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new energy recovery circuit with an auxiliary power supply for AC plasma display panel is proposed, which can provide zero-voltage switching of all switches by rejecting the surge current when sustain switches are turned on. The operation process of the circuit is analyzed, and the results of experiments based on a 12-in PDP panel with 100 kHz sustaining frequency show that the proposed circuit could reduce power losses of energy recovery circuit of AC plasma display panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we shall introduce two q-analogues of the squeezed states in terms of the technique of integration within an ordered product of operators and the properties of the inverses of q-deformed annihilation and creation operators, and some nonclassical properties of the states are examined. Furthermore, we obtain some new completeness relations composed of the bra and ket which are not mutually Hermitian conjugate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A right-handed, calcium-dependent β-roll structure found in secreted proteases and repeat-in-toxin proteins was used as a template for the design of minimal, soluble, monomeric polypeptides that would fold in the presence of Ca2+. Two polypeptides were synthesised to contain two and four metal-binding sites, respectively, and exploit stacked tryptophan pairs to stabilise the fold and report on the conformational state of the polypeptide. Results: Initial analysis of the two polypeptides in the presence of calcium suggested the polypeptides were disordered. The addition of lanthanum to these peptides caused aggregation. Upon further study by right angle light scattering and electron microscopy, the aggregates were identified as ordered protein filaments that required lanthanum to polymerize. These filaments could be disassembled by the addition of a chelating agent. A simple head-to-tail model is proposed for filament formation that explains the metal ion-dependency. The model is supported by the capping of one of the polypeptides with biotin, which disrupts filament formation and provides the ability to control the average length of the filaments. Conclusion: Metal ion-dependent, reversible protein filament formation is demonstrated for two designed polypeptides. The polypeptides form filaments that are approximately 3 nm in diameter and several hundred nm in length. They are not amyloid-like in nature as demonstrated by their behaviour in the presence of congo red and thioflavin T. A capping strategy allows for the control of filament length and for potential applications including the "decoration" of a protein filament with various functional moieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The strong pH dependence of Aβ oligomerization could arise from favorable intermolecular charge–charge interactions between His and carboxylate groups, or, alternatively, by mutual electrostatic repulsion of peptide molecules. To test between these two possibilities, the pH dependence of the oligomerization of Aβ and three charge substitution variants with Asp, Glu and His substituted by Ala is measured. All four peptides oligomerize, as detected by thioflavin T fluorescence, turbidity, and amyloid fibril formation; therefore, specific charge–charge interactions are nonessential for oligomerization. The strong negative correlation between net charge and oligomerization indicates that electrostatic repulsion between Aβ monomers impedes their association. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have analysed data from angle-resolved photo-emission spectroscopy, Fourier transform scanning tunneling spectroscopy, and low-temperature thermal conductivity for optimally doped Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+y in order to discriminate between d-wave and extended s-wave pairing symmetry. The combined data are inconsistent with d-wave symmetry, but quantitatively consistent with extended s-wave symmetry with eight line nodes. We also explain all phase-sensitive experiments in a consistent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have predicted five disulfide bonds in Aspergillus niger phytase (phy A). To investigate the role of disulfide bonds, intrinsic fluorescence spectra, far-ultraviolet circular dichroism (CD) spectra, and an enzyme activity assay were used to compare the differences of catalytic activity and conformational stability of phytase during denaturation in urea in the presence and absence of dithiothreitol (DTT). In the presence of 2 mM DTT, the inactivation and unfolding were greatly enhanced at the same concentration of denaturant. The fluorescence emission maximum red shift and decreases of ellipticity at 222 nm were in accord with the changes of catalytic activity. The kinetics of the unfolding courses were a biphasic process consisting of two first-order reactions in the absence of DTT and a monophasic process of a first-order reaction in the presence of DTT. The results suggested that the loss of enzymatic activity was most likely because of a conformational change, and that disulfide bonds played an important role in three-dimensional structure and catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In older adults, the recovery after hip fracture surgery is not always to be well expected due to high risks of adverse outcomes including perioperative complications and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the intertrochanteric fracture (IF) patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and receiving surgical fixation with intramedullary nail on the perioperative complications, total hospital costs (THC), length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, among 487 consecutive intertrochanteric fracture patients with age over 65 years and treated surgically by using intramedullary nail between Jan. 2015 and Mar. 2020, 353 patients were included, including 81 with DM and 272 without DM. After using propensity-score matched (PSM) analysis, 80 patients remained in each group. The perioperative complications, 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year survival rates, THC, and LOS were observed and compared between two groups. Overall survival was compared by Kaplan–Meier method. Results: No significant between-group differences were found in 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year mortality rates, THC, LOS, and other perioperative complications after PSM and McNemar's tests (all p 0.05), except for neurological complications (p< 0.004) and endocrine/metabolic complications (p< 0.001). At a mean follow-up time of 36.2 months, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups based on the Kaplan–Meier survival curve (p=0.171, log-rank). Conclusion: IF surgery patients with DM are more prone to suffer perioperative neurological and endocrine/metabolic complications and they should be managed individually while being aware of these risks henceforth. Further high evidence clinical trials are needed to expand in DM patients with IF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acetylenic sulfides are readily oxidized to acetylenic sulfoxides by a solution of pyridine, water, benzoic acid and trichloroisocyanuric acid in acetonitrile and methylene chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many anomalous physical properties have been observed in the high-T[sub c] cuprate superconductors for the last decade. These include: (1) the unconventional isotope effects on the supercarrier mass, on the charge-stripe formation temperature, on the spin-glass freezing temperature and on the antiferromagnetic ordering temperature; (2) the exotic pairing symmetry shown by many bulk-sensitive experiments; (3) the magnetic resonance peak in the superconducting state revealed by inelastic neutron scattering; (4) the peak, dip and hump features seen in angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy and in tunnelling spectra; (5) the strong-coupling features in optical and tunnelling data; (6) the pseudogap in the normal state of underdoped cuprates and (7) the unusually large supercarrier mass anisotropy and its novel doping dependence. We review these important experimental results, which can place crucial constraints on the physics of cuprates. The conclusion is that high-T[sub c] superconductivity in cuprates is a cooperative phenomenon between the strong electron-electron correlation and strong electron-phonon coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiols are readily oxidized to disulfides by a solution of pyridine, water, benzoic acid and trichloroisocyanuric acid in acetonitrile and methylene chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenols are readily oxidized to diselenides by a solution of pyridine, water, benzoic acid, and trichloroisocyanuric acid in acetonitrile and methylene chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrozirconation of alkyl silyl acetylenes gives organozirconium complexes, which reacted with sulfinyl chlorides to afford (E)-1-silylvinyl sulfoxides in high yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxetic materials are attracting increasing interest due to their extraordinary or even abnormal mechanical properties. Different from the traditional truss-lattice structures, this paper proposes a series of novel auxetic plate-lattice structures with an excellent auxetic effect. Utilizing a dual-materials glue-free assembly design involving hyperelastic and plastic materials, these plate-lattices exhibit numerous advantages such as disassembly, assembly, replacement, recyclability, reusability, excellent energy absorption, high specific stiffness, and impact resistance performances. Quasi-static/dynamic tests and simulations are conducted to assess mechanical properties, including elastic constants, deformation modes, and mechanical responses. Simultaneously, the effect of the principal geometric parameter, concave angle, on the structural response was analyzed with various impact velocities. Findings suggest that the concave angle influences the structural elastic constants under compressive loading. The stress–strain response exhibits a distinct dual-plateau phenomenon. Taking the A65 (concave angle is 65°) configuration as an example, the stress on the second plateau is approximately 2.7 times that of the first plateau, significantly enhancing the structure's energy absorption capability. Under dynamic impact loadings, different configurations and varying impact velocities affect the structure's energy absorption performance. This paper introduces a series of assemblable plate-lattice structures with an auxetic effect, offering design insights and guidance tailored to the convenient transportation, unconventional structures, and rapid assembly needs of lightweight, impact-resistant mechanical metamaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The similar physico-chemical properties of propylene and propane molecules have made the separation process of propylene/propane challenging. Membrane separation techniques show substantial prospects in propylene/propane separation due to their low energy consumption and investment costs, and they have been proposed to replace or to be combined with the conventional cryogenic distillation process. Over the past decade, organosilica membranes have attracted considerable attention due to their significant features, such as their good molecular sieving properties and high hydrothermal stability. In the present review, holistic insight is provided to summarize the recent progress in propylene/propane separation using polymeric, inorganic, and hybrid membranes, and a particular inspection of organosilica membranes is conducted. The importance of the pore subnano-environment of organosilica membranes is highlighted, and future directions and perspectives for propylene/propane separation are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of modified 2D nanosheets (graphene oxide-layered double hydroxide, GO-LDH; boron nitride-LDH, BN-LDH; and molybdenum disulfide-LDH, MoS 2 -LDH) are prepared via a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and effortless method based on the concept of electrostatic interaction. The modified 2D nanosheet/Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposite films show a comprehensive improvement of physicochemical properties. Among the synthesized films, the O 2 barrier performance of the 1% GO-LDH/PVA nanocomposite film (1.44 × 10−13 cm3 cm/cm2·s·cmHg) is 25-fold higher than that of the pure PVA film (3.68 × 10−12 cm3 cm/cm2·s·cmHg). The 1% GO-LDH/PVA shows tremendous improvement in tensile strength (84.7 MPa) and modulus (3032 MPa) values than the PVA film (46.7 and 371 MPa). Furthermore, the 2% BN-LDH/PVA nanocomposite shows the H 2 /CO 2 permselectivity value of 102.5, which is superior to the Robeson upper bound and most reported separation films. In addition to the improved gas barrier and permselectivity performances, an exceptional combination of the thermal stability, tensile strength/modulus, flexibility, and transparency of the nanocomposite film could lead to applications in food packaging, H 2 purification, and CO 2 capture. Image 1 • A series of modified 2D nanosheets (GO-LDH, BN-LDH, and MoS 2 -LDH) were successfully prepared. • Modified 2D nanosheets/PVA films were prepared by a simple solution casting method. • The O 2 barrier performance of nanocomposite film is 25-fold higher than that of the pure PVA. • H 2 /CO 2 permselectivity (102.5) of 2% BN-LDH/PVA film transcends the Robeson upper bound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, mid-infrared window is steadily growing popularity due to the development of mid-infrared technology. Mid-infrared antireflection coating with UV–vis-shortwave near infrared cut-off is critical important in the infrared detector, which can improve quality of signal in mid-infrared and avoid noise introduced by non-working wavelength band. Based on electron beam evaporation technique with argon plasma assistance, a mid-infrared antireflection coating with UV–vis-shortwave near infrared cut-off on oxyflouride substrate, has been designed, fabricated and characterized. The coating on the first side of substrate is composed of 7-layer alternative stacking high-index layer of germanium and low-index coating material of magnesium fluoride. The coating on the second side of substrate is composed of 2-layer alternative stacking high-index layer of alumina and low-index coating material of silicon oxide. This coating shows below 1% average transmittance from 300 nm to 900 nm and above 92 % average transmittance from 3.7 um to 4.8 um in mid-infrared region. The error analysis shows that thickness errors are the main reasons for the deviations between theoretical design and experimental results. In addition, the adhesion strength of the coating is quantitatively characterized by scratch-adhesion test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reports the results of magnetization and thermal expansion measurements on samples of the copper oxide superconductor La2-xSrxCuO4. The characterization of the oxygen-isotope effects on the carrier density and on the in-plane penetration depth; What the specific quantitative features show; The existence of polaronic charge carriers; The condensation into Cooper pairs; The implications for the Jahn-Teller effect.

Deals with a study that described a method for preparing single crystals of Ba[sub2]GdCu[sub3]O[sub7-y] of much larger size. Factors that were obtained from a superconducting crystal; Step taken to characterize the electrical quality of the annealed crystal; Cause of the large resistivity in the single crystal.

• Comprehensive metabolic profile of NOCP and dimer B in vivo was revealed for the first time. • 34 prototypes and 15 metabolites were identified or assigned in biosamples of NOCP group, while the prototype and 8 metabolites were characterized in biosamples of dimer B group. • Oxidation, and hydrogenation were supposed to be the major phase I reactions, while methylation, sulfation, and glucuronidation were the main phase II reactions of NOCP and dimer B. • NOCP and dimer B were mainly absorbed in the form of metabolites, and metabolites are probably the major bioactive forms of NOCP and dimer B. Cicadae Periostracum (CP), the cast-off shell of Cryptotympana atrata , is specified in Chinese Pharmacopoeia for relieving fever and eliminating ulcer. N -acetyldopamine oligomers are the major characteristic bioactive components with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that may be responsible for the efficacy of CP. However, the exposed components and metabolites of N -acetyldopamine oligomers of CP (NOCP) in vivo are still unknown. In present study, the metabolic profile of total NOCP and N -acetyldopamine dimer B in rats were systematically investigated by ultra-high liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS). In biosamples of NOCP group, 34 prototypes and 15 metabolites were identified or tentatively characterized, including 5 metabolites in plasma, 3 prototype and 9 metabolites in urine, 2 metabolites in bile, 34 prototypes and 8 metabolites in feces, respectively. In dimer B group, the prototype and 8 metabolites were identified, including 2 metabolites in plasma, 4 metabolites in urine, 1 metabolite in bile and 5 metabolites in feces, respectively. Oxidation, and hydrogenation were supposed to be the major phase I reactions, while methylation, sulfation, and glucuronidation were the main phase II reactions of NOCP and dimer B. M10 and M13 might undergo enterohepatic circulation in rats. It is concluded that NOCP and dimer B were mainly absorbed in the form of metabolites, and metabolites are probably the major bioactive forms of NOCP and dimer B. The outcomes of this study provided helpful information for extensively elucidating biological and pharmacological mechanisms of NOCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the electron beam evaporation with oxygen plasma assistance, Y 2 O 3 films were prepared at different deposition temperatures and oxygen flow rates. X-ray diffraction showed that all deposited Y 2 O 3 films had cubic phase with (2 2 2) plane preferred orientation. Spectrometer test results showed that water absorption decreases in transmittance and reflectance around the wavelength of 2.9 μm. According to Lorentz dispersion theory, a multi-oscillator model was established to calculate optical constants and the inhomogeneity of Y 2 O 3 films in the wavelength range from 2.5 to 4 μm. The results indicate an abnormal dispersion phenomenon is appearing in the 2.5–4 μm wavelength region. It was found that under the same oxygen flow rate, higher substrate temperature leads to a greater refractive index and smaller extinction coefficient. When the oxygen flow rate is increased at the same substrate temperature, the extinction coefficient remains almost unchanged, while the refractive index decreases. In addition, the refractive index and the inhomogeneity of the films increase almost linearly as the grain size increases. • Based on electron beam evaporation technology, cubic Y2O3 films were prepared under different deposition conditions. • Based on Lorentz multi-oscillator model, a method for calculating the optical constants was proposed. • The water absorption characteristics of cubic Y2O3 films in the wavelength range from 2.5 to 4 um were studied. • The relationship between the grain size, the refractive index and the inhomogeneity has been found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori, Hp) has been designated a class I carcinogen and is closely associated with severe gastric diseases. During colonization in the gastric mucosa, H. pylori develops immune escape by inducing host immune tolerance. The gastric epithelium acts as the first line of defense against H. pylori, with Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in gastric epithelial cells being sensitive to H. pylori components and subsequently activating the innate immune system. However, the mechanism of immune tolerance induced by H. pylori through the TLR signalling pathway has not been fully elucidated. In this research, we detected the expression of TLRs and inflammatory cytokines in GES-1 cells upon sustained exposure to H. pylori or H. pylori lysate from 1 to 30 generations and in Mongolian gerbils infected with H. pylori for 5 to 90 weeks. We found that the levels of TLR6 and inflammatory cytokines first increased and then dropped during the course of H. pylori treatment in vitro and in vivo. The restoration of TLR6 potentiated the expression of IL-1β and IL-8 in GES-1 cells, which recruited neutrophils and reduced the colonization of H. pylori in the gastric mucosa of gerbils. Mechanistically, we found that persistent infection with H. pylori reduces the sensitivity of TLR6 to bacterial components and regulates the expression of inflammatory cytokines in GES-1 cells through TLR6/JNK signaling. The TLR6 agonist obviously alleviated inflammation in vitro and in vivo. Promising results suggest that TLR6 may be a potential candidate immunotherapy drug for H. pylori infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical brushes are essential parts of electrical circuits that can transmit electric power and signal between the moving and stationary parts by sliding, so they are exposed to both mechanical and electrical loading. In this study Cu-graphite brush was prepared by the powder metallurgy process, and was tested in rotating sliding electrical contact under different currents. The effect of electrical current on the tribological property of the Cu-graphite brush was investigated by evaluating the friction, wear, contact resistance and temperature. Results illustrate that the static contact resistance of Cu-graphite brush decreases sharply with an increase in the contact force. The friction coefficient and sliding contact resistance decrease gradually with increasing current, which is because of the Joule heat resulting in the reduction of the shear strength and the increase of real contact area. The formation of a continuous transfer layer on steel disc also contributes to the decrease of contact resistance. Oxidation of the wear debris and formation of hard particles causes abrasive wear. The dominant wear mechanism of the Cu-graphite brush with current is electrical wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the core component of the hydrodynamic retarder braking system, pneumatic proportional solenoid valve plays an important role in the process of braking torque control. However, the hysteresis characteristic caused by friction and air compressibility will lead to the deviation of braking torque. In order to solve this problem, the hysteresis characteristic of pneumatic proportional solenoid valve is experimentally studied, and the causes of hysteresis phenomenon are analyzed through mathematical modeling of the valve core. Then, a high-precision prediction model of braking torque is obtained by combining Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and response surface method, which is used to construct the mapping relationship between control air pressure and braking torque. Furthermore, a feedforward controller based on Prandtl–Ishlinskii inverse model is designed to compensate the hysteresis characteristics. On this basis, a compound hysteresis characteristics compensation control strategy combined with Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) feedback control is proposed to realize the accurate control of braking torque. Finally, the test verification of braking torque control is carried out. The average error of compound control, feedforward control, and PID control under torque step working condition is 3.16%, 5.97%, and 6.23%, and the response time is 3.75, 8.75, and 3.2 s, respectively. The compound control strategy also has smaller torque error and shorter response time under both ramp torque tracking and constant torque conditions. To sum up, this compound control strategy can effectively compensate the hysteresis characteristics of the pneumatic hydrodynamic retarder and ensure the driving safety by improving the control accuracy and response speed of braking torque. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PCM can regulate the pavement temperature by releasing or absorbing heat. • The leaked PCM will chemically react with asphalt and effect its performance. • PCM can improve high-temperature stability and crack resistance of asphalt mixture. • The synthesis process of CPCM still needs to be explored to reduce PCM losses. Phase change materials (PCMs) can adjust the external temperature by changing their phase states. In order to understand the application of PCMs in asphalt pavements, this paper mainly studied the classification, mechanism, thermoregulation effects of PCMs and the preparation method of composite phase change materials (CPCMs). In addition, the effects of directly incorporated PCMs and composite ones on the properties of asphalt binder and asphalt mixture were described. Results show that directly incorporated PCMs play a role in thermoregulation. However, there is high temperature leakage phenomenon, which has a significant adverse effect on the road performance of asphalt binder and asphalt mixture. CPCMs effectively prevented leakage, reduced the adverse impact on the physical properties of asphalt binder. It is an ideal way to add CPCMs as an alternative component to asphalt mixture. CPCMs improved the heat storage and release capacity of asphalt mixture and the road performance of asphalt mixture, such as high-temperature stability, low-temperature anti-cracking had been improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, two dimensional double-U auxetic honeycombs (2D DUHs) composed of curved shell members have been proposed based on traditional double-V (concave quadrilateral or re-entrant double-arrowhead) auxetic honeycombs (2D DVHs). Theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and compression experiments are adopted to characterize the mechanical properties including equivalent Young's modulus, equivalent Poisson's ratio, and quasi-static collapse process of 2D DVHs and DUHs. Specimens of the 2D DUHs and DVHs made of Aluminum alloy (A6061) are fabricated through wire cut electrical discharge machining. Both numerical and experimental results illustrate that concave DUHs exhibit tunable negative Poisson's ratio and equivalent stiffness level compared to DVHs. Furthermore, DUHs have smooth geometry configurations that can reduce stress concentration at elastic region and exhibit stronger auxetic behavior during large deformation. Those mechanical properties of 2D DUHs satisfy the requirements for practical engineering applications such as energy absorption. The dynamic crushing responses of 2D DVHs and DUHs are also investigated, and it is found that the crushing collapse modes and plateau stress improvement of 2D DUHs are related to the crushing velocity. Finally, the local impact responses of 2D DVHs and DUHs are studied numerically, the influences of impact velocity and indenter size are considered. This study provides useful instructions for the design, fabrication and analysis of auxetic structures, which has a broad prospect in some advanced technical applications. • 2D double-U auxetic honeycombs are proposed based on traditional double-V auxetic honeycombs. • DUHs exhibit tunable Poisson's ratio and have equivalent stiffness and strength level compared to DVHs. • DUHs have smooth structural connections that can reduce stress concentration and manufacturing damage. • DUHs present stronger auxetic behavior which leading to better load resistance and energy absorbing capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane-based separation technologies are considered an effective process for the capture of CO 2 due to advantages such as high levels of energy efficiency with inexpensive levels of investment. It remains challenging, however, to develop a membrane with high levels of both permeance and selectivity with the ability to capture CO 2 in a highly efficient manner. Herein, we report amino-decorated organosilica membranes that are based on a facile and effective co-polymerization strategy that uses bis(triethoxysilyl)acetylene (BTESA) and (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) precursors. This co-polymerization strategy simultaneously endows the resultant membranes with a controlled pore size and enhanced CO 2 -philic properties that have significantly improved CO 2 separation performance. These composite membranes display CO 2 permeance that ranges from 2550–3230 GPU and a range for CO 2 /N 2 selectivity of 31–42 in the separation of CO 2 /N 2 mixtures, which outperforms most state-of-the-art membranes and exceeds the target for post-combustion CO 2 capture operations. A satisfying performance was achieved with a CO 2 permeance of 8 ✕ 10−7 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 (2390 GPU) and CO 2 /CH 4 selectivity of 70. The present study highlights an elegant decoration strategy for the production of membranes with ultrahigh CO 2 capture capacities, which can also be extended to other organosilica precursors for target-oriented separations by varying the bridged or side-chain groups. Image 1 • Amino-decorated organosilica membrane was prepared via co-polymerization strategy. • BTESA-A membranes obtained controlled pore size and enhanced CO 2 affinity. • BTESA-A membranes featured promisingly high CO 2 capture performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel 3D AuxHex lattice structures are proposed with zero Poisson's ratio and fabricated via 3D printing. • The 3D AuxHex lattice has better energy absorption compared with re-entrant structure with the same relative density. • Functionally graded AuxHex lattices are used to control the stress-strain curves and improve energy absorption performances. • Hybrid stable AuxHex lattices are developed with enhanced plateau stress and energy absorption efficiency. In this paper, a novel three dimensional (3D) AuxHex lattice structure consisting of auxetic re-entrant and hexagonal components is proposed. Theoretical models of elastic constants and quasi-static plateau stress are established which indicate that the AuxHex lattice structures have zero Poisson's ratio and better energy absorption capacity than traditional auxetic re-entrant cellular structures. Numerical simulation is also used to study the mechanical properties of 3D AuxHex lattice structures, which presents good agreements with theoretical models. The experimental specimens are fabricated via 3D printing technique and the compression tests are also carried out to validate the accuracy of theoretical models and numerical simulations. To overcome the problem of unstable quasi-static crushing of 3D AuxHex structures with thin struts (low relative density), the hybrid stable AuxHex lattice (HSAL) structure is designed by inserting auxiliary structure to AuxHex lattice to make the AuxHex structures more stable and obtain higher energy absorption efficiency. The influence of material gradient index is investigated numerically, which shows the positive and negative gradients have different effects on the energy absorption behavior under various loading conditions. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insects live in a complex and diverse environment, threatened by a variety of microorganisms, and the innate immunity of which plays an important role in defending the invasion of pathogens. From an evolutionary perspective, different living environments and lifestyles drive the different evolutionary patterns of immune systems of insects. Fig wasps are closely associated with the fig syconia, divided into pollinators and non-pollinators according to whether they pollinate the figs. The pollinators are all herbivorous, and fulfil their development within the fig syconia, presenting different lifestyles and diets to non-pollinators, which lead to the chances of exposure to the pathogens varying greatly. The recognition of pathogens is the first step in innate immunity. Therefore, we focused on the different evolutionary patterns of peptidoglycan recognition protein genes between pollinators and non-pollinators, and found that the number of peptidoglycan recognition protein genes was significantly smaller than that of non-pollinators, and the initiation of Toll pathway of pollinators was simpler than that of non-pollinators. All the results suggested a streamlined innate immune recognition system of pollinators, and this information will provide more insights into the adaptive evolution of innate immunity in insects of host specificity. The innate immunity is the most important defense against pathogen of insects, and the peptidoglycan recognition proteins (PGRPs) play an important role in the processes of immune recognition and initiation of Toll, IMD and other signal pathways. In fig wasps, pollinators and non-pollinators present different evolutionary histories and lifestyles, even though both are closely associated with fig syconia, which may indicate their different patterns in the evolution of PGRPs. By manual annotation, we got all the PGRP genes of 12 fig wasp species, containing seven pollinators and five non-pollinators, and investigated their putative different evolutionary patterns. We found that the number of PGRP genes in pollinators was significantly lower than in non-pollinators, and the number of catalytic PGRP presented a declining trend in pollinators. More importantly, PGRP-SA is associated with initiating the Toll pathway, as well as gram-negative bacteria-binding proteins (GNBPs), which were completely lost in pollinators, which led us to speculate that the initiation of Toll pathway was simpler in pollinators than in non-pollinators. We concluded that fig pollinators owned a more streamlined innate immune recognition system than non-pollinators. Our results provide molecular evidence for the adaptive evolution of innate immunity in insects of host specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) can be mixed and compacted at low temperature to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) can save asphalt binder and aggregate, which can achieve the better reclaimed effects with the addition of rejuvenator. However, WMA and RAP have some shortcomings, respectively. Warm mix asphalt and Reclaimed asphalt pavement (WMA-RAP) technology may solve these problems when they are used together. This article reviews the literature on the applications of WMA-RAP and its effects on the performance of the asphalt mixture. Different types of WMA additives work differently on high temperature performance, low temperature and moisture susceptibility. WMA with a certain content of RAP showed satisfactory rutting performance and low temperature cracking resistance. The low temperature cracking resistance and moisture susceptibility of WMA-RAP mentioned in the literature is improved because of some kinds of rejuvenators. It is hoped that this review will help pavement engineers to better design the WMA-RAP. • Mechanisms, research approaches and road performances of WMA-RAP were summarized. • The influence of WMA additive, RAP content and rejuvenator on road performances were discussed. • WAM-RAP technology was reviewed and future researches were suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• miR-93 was downregulated upon IAV infection in alveolar epithelial type 2. • miR-93 inhibited the antiviral function of type I IFN by targeting JAK1. • miR-93 downregulation promotes antiviral response by strengthening IFN cascade. • Antagomir-93 inhibits IAV replication in vivo, prevents 75% death of infected mice. Type I interferons play a critical role in host defense against influenza virus infection. Interferon cascade induces the expression of interferon-stimulated genes then subsequently promotes antiviral immune responses. The microRNAs are important regulators of innate immunity, but microRNAs-mediated regulation of interferon cascade during influenza infection remains to be fully identified. Here we found influenza A virus (IAV) infection significantly inhibited miR-93 expression in alveolar epithelial type II cells through RIG-I/JNK pathway. IAV-induced downregulation of miR-93 was found to upregulate JAK1, the target of miR-93, and then feedback promote antiviral innate response by facilitating IFN effector signaling. Importantly, in vivo administration of miR-93 antagomiR markedly suppressed IAV infection, protecting mice form IAVs -associated death. Hence, the inducible downregulation of miR-93 feedback suppress IAV infection by strengthening IFN-JAK-STAT pathway via JAK1 upregulation, and in vivo inhibition of miR-93 bears considerable therapeutic potential for suppressing IAV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports the effect of pre-existing carbides prepared by different heat treatments on the nitriding behaviour during a carburizing and nitriding duplex treatment of an M50NiL steel. The goal was to achieve an improved understanding of the relationship between the pre-existing carbides and nitriding behaviour. The M50NiL steel was carburized at 950 °C, heat treated at different quenching temperatures (ranging from 1000 to 1150 °C) and tempering temperatures (ranging from 500 to 580 °C), and finally nitrided at 500 °C. The surface layers were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Vickers microhardness measurement and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the formation of intergranular precipitates was greatly related to the presence of pre-existing carbides, which led to a change in the carbon content in the matrix and showed different dissolving capacities. The compound layers consisted of γ′ (Fe 4 N) and ε (Fe 2-3 N) phases as well as a minor amount of Fe 3 O 4. The pre-existing carbides had no effect on the composition of the compound layer. For the diffusion of nitrogen, a density of pre-existing carbides that was too high or too low was unfavorable, as it greatly decreased the thickness of the nitrided layer. At the quenching temperature of 1100 °C and the tempering temperature of 540 °C, the thickest nitrided layer herein and a good hardness distribution were obtained, which was attributed to the optimum density of pre-existing carbides. This study provides information regarding how to obtain a thick nitrided layer by controlling pre-existing carbides during the duplex treatment of M50NiL steels. • Increasing quenching temperature helps to dissolve M23C6 carbides. • The formation of intergranular precipitates is greatly related to pre-existing carbides. • The occurrence of pre-existing carbides has significant effect on the diffusion of nitrogen. • There is no linear relation between nitrogen concentration and hardness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a novel modified semi-carbonized fiber (CF) prepared using cotton and acrylic clothes for derisking contaminated water to realize the resource utilization of discarded clothes in wastewater treatment. In this study, amphoteric and auxiliary modifiers were used to modify CFs for preparing amphoteric and amphoteric-auxiliary CFs. The basic physicochemical properties of different modified CFs were determined, and the microscopic morphology of modified CFs was detected. The isothermal adsorption characteristics of Cu(II) and Pb(II) on different modified CFs were investigated by the batch method, and the effect mechanisms of temperature, pH, ionic strength, and material dose were compared. Physicochemical properties and microscopic morphology results proved that amphoteric and auxiliary modifiers were modified on the CF surface and changed the surface properties of CF. The adsorption capacities of Cu(II) and Pb(II) on modified CFs increased with the increase in equilibrium concentration of Cu(II) and Pb(II), and the isotherm was more suitable for Freundlich model fitting than that of the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacities (q m) of Cu(II) and Pb(II) on different modified CFs were 60.72–81.26 mg/g and 102.58–161.72 mg/g, respectively, and presented the trend of amphoteric-auxiliary CFs > amphoteric CFs > CFs. Increasing pH and temperature and decreasing ionic strength and material dose were beneficial to Cu(II) and Pb(II) adsorption. The Cu(II) and Pb(II) adsorption process was a spontaneous, endothermic, and entropy-increasing reaction, and the adsorption rate was controlled by chemisorption. The adsorption amount of amphoteric-auxiliary CFs maintained about 65% of original materials after 3 times of regeneration. Electrostatic attraction, precipitation, complexation, and ion exchange were the main adsorption mechanisms. The cation exchange capacity and total pore volume of modified CFs were key to determining q m of Cu(II) and Pb(II). [Display omitted] • The maximum adsorption capacities of Cu(II) and Pb(II) presents 60.72–161.72 mg/g. • The optimum adsorption conditions are 30 °C, pH = 6, and ionic strength of 0.1 mol/L. • Metal ions adsorption is a spontaneous, endothermic, and entropy-increasing process. • Cation exchange capacity and total pore volume remarkably affect the adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In older adults, the recovery after hip fracture surgery is not always to be well expected due to high risks of adverse outcomes including perioperative complications and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the intertrochanteric fracture (IF) patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and receiving surgical fixation with intramedullary nail on the perioperative complications, total hospital costs (THC), length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality.Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, among 487 consecutive intertrochanteric fracture patients with age over 65 years and treated surgically by using intramedullary nail between Jan. 2015 and Mar. 2020, 353 patients were included, including 81 with DM and 272 without DM. After using propensity-score matched (PSM) analysis, 80 patients remained in each group. The perioperative complications, 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year survival rates, THC, and LOS were observed and compared between two groups. Overall survival was compared by Kaplan-Meier method.Results: No significant between-group differences were found in 30-day, 90-day, 1-year, and 2-year mortality rates, THC, LOS, and other perioperative complications after PSM and McNemar's tests (all p>0.05), except for neurological complications (p<0.004) and endocrine/metabolic complications (p<0.001). At a mean follow-up time of 36.2 months, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups based on the Kaplan-Meier survival curve (p=0.171, log-rank).Conclusion: IF surgery patients with DM are more prone to suffer perioperative neurological and endocrine/metabolic complications and they should be managed individually while being aware of these risks henceforth. Further high evidence clinical trials are needed to expand in DM patients with IF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dedicated bus lanes (DBLs) have been widely utilized to ensure public transport priority. To improve overall road efficiency, various control methods of multiplexing DBL are developed and discussed. In this study, we focus on the control method which is based on the connected-automated vehicle (CAV) technology, and the proposed method is validated by using microscopic traffic simulation. The simulation results show that two proposed control methods of multiplexing DBL can reduce the average delay and the average number of stops and increase the travel speed. In comparison, the real-time control method based on the CAV technology offers better effects than the improved signal light control method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PPh3-catalyzed α-addition reactions of 1-(o-hydroxyaryl)-1,3-diketones to terminal alkynoates involving carbon–carbon bond cleavage to give multifunctional vinylesters are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane-based separation techniques are responsible for great advances in the separation of propylene/propane mixtures. In this study, bis(triethoxysilyl)acetylene (BTESA) was selected as the precursor in the fabrication of organosilica membranes for use in propylene/propane separation. We proposed an effective strategy to finely engineer the pore subnano-environment of BTESA membranes for highly selective propylene/propane separation via controlling the calcination temperatures. Measurement of the surface energy, the 29Si-NMR spectra, and the gas sorption isotherms clearly indicated that low-temperature calcined BTESA materials with a greater number of silanol groups showed an enhanced affinity to propylene molecules. BTESA membranes calcined at 150 °C featured a promisingly high C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 selectivity of 52 and a C 3 H 6 permeance of 1.7 ✕ 10−8 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 at 50 °C. These values were approximate to those reported for ZIF-8 membranes and higher than the standards for commercialization. The high level of C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 separation performance was believed to be accounted by the synergetic effects of both controlled pore size and enhanced affinity to propylene molecules. Moreover, compared with traditional organosilica membranes that were calcined at ~350 °C, low-temperature calcination (150 °C) for BTESA membranes efficiently reduced the energy consumption and fabrication cost. Image 1 • Firing conditions engineered pore subnano-environment of organosilica membranes. • Silanol groups accelerated the permeation of C 3 H 6 molecules. • BTESA-150 membranes featured promisingly high C 3 H 6 /C 3 H 8 separation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]