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This paper presents a Linear Joule Engine Generator (LJEG) powered by ammonia and hydrogen co-combustion to tackle decarbonisation in the electrification of transport propulsion systems. A dynamic model of the LJEG, which integrates mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetics sub-models, as well as detailed combustion chemistry analysis for emissions, is presented. The dynamic model is integrated and validated, and the LJEG performance is optimised for improved performance and reduced emissions. At optimal conditions, the engine could generate 1.96 kWe at a thermal efficiency of 34.3% and an electrical efficiency of 91%. It is found that the electromagnetic force of the linear alternator and heat addition from the external combustor and engine valve timing have the most significant influences on performance, whereas the piston stroke has a lesser impact. The impacts of hydrogen ratio, oxygen concentration, inlet pressure, and equivalence ratio of ammonia-air on nitric oxide (NO) formation and reduction are revealed using a detailed chemical kinetic analysis. Results indicated that rich combustion and elevated pressure are beneficial for NO reduction. The rate of production analysis indicates that the equivalence ratio significantly changes the relative contribution among the critical NO formation and reduction reaction pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern embedded systems have achieved relatively high processing power. They can be used for edge computing and computer vision, where data are collected and processed locally, without the need for network communication for decision-making and data analysis purposes. Face detection, face recognition, and pose detection algorithms can be executed with acceptable performance on embedded systems and are used for home security and monitoring. However, popular machine learning frameworks, such as MediaPipe, require relatively high usage of CPU while running, even when idle with no subject in the scene. Combined with the still present false detections, this wastes CPU time, elevates the power consumption and overall system temperature, and generates unnecessary data. In this study, a low-cost low-resolution infrared thermal sensor array was used to control the execution of MediaPipe's pose detection algorithm using single-board computers, which only runs when the thermal camera detects a possible subject in its field of view. A lightweight algorithm with several filtering layers was developed, which allowed the effective detection and isolation of a person in the thermal image. The resulting hybrid computer vision proved effective in reducing the average CPU workload, especially in environments with low activity, almost eliminating MediaPipe's false detections, and reaching up to 30% power saving in the best-case scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Gram-staining negative, aerobic, rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain YIM DDC1T, was isolated from an estuary sediment sample of Dongda River flowing into Dianchi lake in Yunnan, southwest China. The strain displayed growth at 10–40 °C (optimum of 28 °C), pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum of 7.0–8.0) and in presence of 0–3% (w/v) NaCl (optimum of 0–1%). Strain YIM DDC1T comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine and two unidentified aminolipids as the predominant polar lipids; the ubiquinone 10 as the major respiratory quinone; and summed feature 8 (C18:1ω6c and/or C18:1ω7c), summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c and/or C16:1ω6c) and C18:1 2-OH as the major cellular fatty acids. Analysis of 16S rRNA showed that YIM DDC1T represents a member of the genus Azospirillum, and was closely related to A. brasilense ATCC 29145 T (98.9%), A. baldaniorum Sp245T (98.2%), A. argentinense Az39T (98.2%) and A. formosense CC-Nfb-7 T (98.2%). The draft genome size was 7.15 Mbp with a 68.4% G + C content. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values between strain YIM DDC1T and the aforementioned closely related strains exhibited similarity in the range of 93.8–93.5% and 53.7–52.7%, respectively. nif gene cluster (nifHDK) and denitrification genes ((napA, nirS, nirK, norBC and nosZ) detected in the genome indicated its potential nitrogen fixation and full-fledged denitrifying function. Based on combined genotypic and phenotypic data, strain YIM DDC1T represents a novel species of the genus Azospirillum, for which the name Azospirillum aestuarii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YIM DDC1T (= KCTC 42887 T = CGMCC 1.17325 T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual active converter (DAB) can achieve high efficiency when the voltage ratio (the ratio of the input voltage to the output voltage equivalent to the primary side) is one, but when the voltage ratio is not one, the light-load efficiency drops sharply. Based on the realization logic of DAB light-load, this article proposes a modulation method with asymmetric compression duty cycle, which only increases one degree of freedom and does not need additional components to significantly improve the light-load efficiency. First, this article introduces the existing problems and solutions of the traditional scheme and puts forward a new modulation strategy. Then, the operating modes and power characteristics are analyzed. Then, the influence of duty cycle compression on reflux power and current stress is analyzed. Finally, a prototype with an input voltage of 100–200V, an output voltage of 50 V, and a full load power of 300–600 W is built to verify the analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Physical NW-EP and chemical Cl 2 were compared to remove culturable and viable cells. • NW-EP had ∼3–5 times lower energy consumption for culturable cell removal than Cl 2. • NW-EP inhibited the formation of VBNC cells via destroying cell wall and membrane. • Osmotic pressure caused gradual inactivation of VBNC cells with cell wall damage. • NW-EP showed excellent adaptability to control VBNC cells in DI, tap and lake waters. The induction of viable but nonculturable (VBNC) bacteria with cellular integrity and low metabolic activity by chemical disinfection causes a significant underestimation of potential microbiological risks in drinking water. Herein, a physical Co 3 O 4 nanowire-assisted electroporation (NW-EP) was developed to induce cell damage via the locally enhanced electric field over nanowire tips, potentially achieving effective inhibition of VBNC cells as compared with chemical chlorination (Cl 2). NW-EP enabled over 5-log removal of culturable cell for various G +/G- bacteria under voltage of 1.0 V and hydraulic retention time of 180 s, and with ∼3–6 times lower energy consumption than Cl 2. NW-EP also achieved much higher removals (∼84.6 % and 89.5 %) of viable Bacillus cereus (G +) and Acinetobacter schindleri (G-) via generating unrecoverable pores on cell wall and reversible/irreversible pores on cell membrane than Cl 2 (∼28.6 % and 41.1 %) with insignificant cell damage. The residual VBNC bacteria with cell wall damage and membrane pore resealing exhibited gradual inactivation by osmotic stress, leading to ∼99.8 % cell inactivation after 24 h storage (∼59.4 % for Cl 2). Characterizations of cell membrane integrity and cell morphology revealed that osmotic stress promoted cell membrane damage for the gradual inactivation of VBNC cells during storage. The excellent adaptability of NW-EP for controlling VBNC cells in DI, tap and lake waters suggested its promising application potentials for drinking water, such as design of an external device on household taps. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the main treatments for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Emerging evidence indicates that the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) stimulator of interferon gene (STING) pathway is crucial in RT-induced antitumor immune responses. Here, we discovered that activation of the cancer cell-intrinsic cGAS-STING pathway mediated immune cloaking after RT-induced DNA damage.Methods and Materials: Key regulatory proteins in the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in human and murine HCC cell lines were knocked out or down using CRISPR and CRISPR-associated protein 9 or small interfering RNA. The underlying mechanism of immune cloaking and clinical significance of cGAS-STING-induced programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression were studied with both ex vivo analyses and in vitro experiments.Results: RT upregulated PD-L1 in patients with HCC, which correlated with poor survival. RT activated cGAS-STING, increasing immune-checkpoint PD-L1 expression in human and mouse liver cancer cells. Ionizing radiation activated the STING-TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1)-interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) innate immune pathway, leading to PD-L1 upregulation in HCC cells and inhibiting cytotoxic T-lymphocyte activity and protecting tumor cells from immune-mediated eradication. Knockdown of cGAS, STING, TBK1, and IRF3 reversed the antitumor effect of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity after ionizing radiation in vitro or in vivo. RT potentiated the antitumor effect of programmed cell death protein 1 and PD-L1 axis blockade and augmented cytotoxic T-cell (CTL) infiltration in HCC tumors in immunocompetent mice. CD8 depletion compromised the synergetic antitumor effect of combined RT and anti-PD-L1 blockade, demonstrating that CD8+ CTLs are required for antitumor immunity induced by combination therapy.Conclusions: Our results identified an immune-cloaking mechanism for RT-activated, innate immune cGAS-STING and suggested that RT enhances HCC immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• How EPS function in RO membrane biofouling is shown for the first time. • EPS in bio-foulants facilitate the adhesion of bacteria to membranes and each other. • High compactness and firm adhesion of bio-foulant indicate severe biofouling. • High EPS content and MW indicate high interaction energy and severe biofouling. The interaction of bio-foulants at the interface of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes is highly correlated with the degree of fouling during wastewater treatment. However, there are few observations showing the micro/nanoscale bio-foulant morphology at the interface and its relationship with the degree of fouling. In this study, two typical bacterial strains (Escherichia coli CGMCC1.3373 and Bacillus cereus CR19) present in reclaimed water were used to test their fouling potential and reveal their interactions with RO membranes. B. cereus , a typical chlorine-resistant bacterium, exhibits significantly higher extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) content and higher interaction energy with membranes. The rate of decrease in membrane flux in the B. cereus group was 1.5 times higher than that in the E. coli group. By rapidly freezing the bio-foulants and examining the micro/nanoscale morphology around their interface with RO membranes, it was revealed that the membrane was fouled by stacked bacterial cells with EPS adhering to each other and to the RO membrane surface. B. cereus secreted more EPS, stacked more compactly, and adhered to the RO membranes more firmly than E. coli , resulting in more severe fouling. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that the micro/nanoscale morphology of the interface between bio-foulants and RO membranes indicates the degree of fouling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces an innovative methodology designed for intrinsic sensing of the adhesion state in directional dry adhesives. Rooted in the inherent shear actuation requirements of these adhesives, the sensing framework incorporates an elastic beam model for a single seta and an equivalent spring model for setae arrays during actuation, facilitating the transformation of complex micro-scale contact issues into relatively simple mechanical measurements. Using microwedge adhesives as a representative case study, the methodology is validated by a series of quantitative experiments and an experimental robotic gripper scenario, in which a straightforward and cost-effective commercial strain gauge proves competent for complex contact state sensing. The proposed methodology indicates substantial implications for improving the operational performance and expanding the application range of gecko-inspired adhesive operations. [Display omitted] • A novel methodology for intrinsic adhesion state sensing in directional dry adhesives. • Mechanical models for both single seta and setae arrays during adhesive actuation. • Correlation between adhesion stiffness and contact area is analyzed and revealed. • Experimental validations encompassing quantitative tests and gripping tasks are performed. • Even a simple and cheap strain gauge is competent for complex contact state sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eighteen novel 3/5(3,5)-(di)nitropaeonol hydrazone derivatives were prepared, and their structures well characterized by 1H NMR, HRMS, and mp. Due to the steric hindrance, the substituents on the C = N double bond of all hydrazine compounds (except E/Z = 4/1 for IV-1g, IV-1l, IV-2b, and E/Z = 3/2 for IV-1n, IV-3a) adopted E configuration. Among all compounds, four compounds 2, 4, IV-1j, and IV-1n exhibited potent nematicidal activity than their precursor paeonol, especially 5-nitropaeonol (2) and 3,5-dinitropaeonol (4) displayed the most potent nematicidal activity Heterodera glycines in vivo with LC50 values of 32.3307 and 36.7074 mg/L, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two series of sulfonate derivatives of carvacrol and thymol were synthesized and screened in vitro for their anti-oomycete activity against Phytophthora capsici, respectively. Among all of 32 derivatives, five compounds 3a, 4a, 4k, 3n, and 4n exhibited more potent anti-oomycete activity against P. capsici with EC50 values of 66.66, 62.94, 68.65, 61.24, and 52.91 mg/L, respectively. This suggested that introduction of different substitutions at the hydroxyl position of 1/2 could have remarkable effect on anti-oomycete activity. Overall, when R1 = isopropyl and R2 = methyl, the anti-oomycete activities of the compounds were higher than that of the corresponding compounds of R1 = methyl and R2 = isopropyl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel ammonia/hydrogen dual-fuelled Linear Joule Engine Generator (LJEG) is developed for medium to large scale power generations and electrification of ship propulsion systems. The characteristics of premixed ammonia/hydrogen combustion of the LJEG are investigated through chemical kinetic modelling. Three representative mechanisms are compared based on their accuracy of reproducing experimental results. With robust combustion and low N O x emission as the primary targets, laminar burning velocity, ignition delay and flame species concentration are investigated over a wide range of equivalence ratio (0.8 − 1.6) , hydrogen blending ratio (0.0 − 0.6) , oxygen content (0.21 − 1.00) , inlet temperature (300 K − 700 K) and pressure (1 b a r − 20 b a r). Rate of production (ROP) analysis is carried out to gain in-depth understanding of critical N O production and consumption pathways. The results indicate that an equivalence ratio around 1.1 is beneficial for both combustion robustness and N O x emission reduction. Both adding hydrogen in the fuel (40 % V o l) and enriching oxygen in the oxidizer (60 % V o l) promote burning velocity to the similar level of methane (37 c m / s). Explicit reduction of N O emission is observed when pressure increases, which can be attributed to the combination of N H i radicals. The findings show the potential of the ammonia and hydrogen fuelled LJEG for ultra-low emission power generation. • An ammonia fuelled Linear Joule Engine Generator is introduced. • Premixed ammonia combustion characteristics revealed under extensive conditions. • Elevated inlet pressure decreases both flame velocity and NO emission. • Oxygen enrichment benefits flame velocity, ignition delay and NO emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a classifier-based approximator to compensate for friction in a high accelerated positioning system. Since friction function is globally non-smooth, an unsupervised k-means clustering algorithm is adopted to classify the friction into micro and macro motion segment, then the frictions are estimated with two sub-approximator in the corresponding segment respectively. Due to the unsupervised classification of friction, the classifier-based approximator can realize universal approximation of nonlinear friction with high precision. Finally, comparative experiments on a high accelerated position system driven by voice coil motors are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The proposed method can reduce the root mean square error (RMSE) of tracking by 57.2%, 19.1%, and 27.4% compared with a parametric model, recurrent neural network (RNN), and incremental extreme learning machine (I-ELM), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mechanism underlying endothelial dysfunction leading to cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. Here, we show that inhibition of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) reduced inflammation and oxidative stress by regulating nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which mediates the expression of anti-inflammatory- and pro-survival-related genes in the vascular endothelium, thereby improving endothelial function. Methods: Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2 KO) C57BL/6 background mice, diabetic db/db mice, and control db/m mice were used to investigate the relationship between HDAC3 and Nrf2 in the endothelium in vivo. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured under high glucose-palmitic acid (HG-PA) conditions were used to explore the role of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) –Nrf2–NAPDH oxidase 4 (Nox4) redox signaling in the vascular endothelium in vitro. Activity assays, immunofluorescence, western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunoprecipitation assays were used to examine the effect of HDAC3 inhibition on inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and endothelial impairment, as well as the activity of Nrf2-related molecules. Results: HDAC3 activity, but not its expression, was increased in db/db mice. This resulted in de-endothelialization and increased oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory marker expression in cells treated with the HDAC3 inhibitor RGFP966, which activated Nrf2 signaling. HDAC3 silencing decreased ROS production, inflammation, and damage-associated tube formation in HG-PA-treated HUVECs. The underlying mechanism involved the Keap1–Nrf2–Nox4 signaling pathway. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest the potential of HDAC3 as a therapeutic target for the treatment of endothelial dysfunction in T2DM. F9VwaRsxKLP3jZNkrRWbWS Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mechanism underlying endothelial dysfunction leading to cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains unclear. Here, we show that inhibition of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) reduced inflammation and oxidative stress by regulating nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which mediates the expression of anti-inflammatory- and pro-survival-related genes in the vascular endothelium, thereby improving endothelial function. Methods: Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2 KO) C57BL/6 background mice, diabetic db/db mice, and control db/m mice were used to investigate the relationship between HDAC3 and Nrf2 in the endothelium in vivo. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured under high glucose-palmitic acid (HG-PA) conditions were used to explore the role of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) –Nrf2–NAPDH oxidase 4 (Nox4) redox signaling in the vascular endothelium in vitro. Activity assays, immunofluorescence, western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immunoprecipitation assays were used to examine the effect of HDAC3 inhibition on inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and endothelial impairment, as well as the activity of Nrf2-related molecules. Results: HDAC3 activity, but not its expression, was increased in db/db mice. This resulted in de-endothelialization and increased oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory marker expression in cells treated with the HDAC3 inhibitor RGFP966, which activated Nrf2 signaling. HDAC3 silencing decreased ROS production, inflammation, and damage-associated tube formation in HG-PA-treated HUVECs. The underlying mechanism involved the Keap1–Nrf2–Nox4 signaling pathway. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest the potential of HDAC3 as a therapeutic target for the treatment of endothelial dysfunction in T2DM. F9VwaRsxKLP3jZNkrRWbWS Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gramine can be intelligently and efficiently supplied with N, N-dimethylamino group and then reacted with the corresponding sulfonyl chlorides to synthesize N, N-dimethylarylsulfonamides. We herein designed and controlled synthesis of N, N-dimethylarylsulfonamide derivatives, and first reported the results of the nematicidal activity of 15 title compounds 3a-o against Meloidogyne incongnita in vitro, respectively. Among all of the title derivatives, compounds 3a, 3c, 3k, and 3o exhibited potent nematicidal activity with median lethal concentration (LC50) values ranging from 0.22 to 0.26 mg/L. Most noteworthy, N, N-dimethyl-4-methoxyphenylsulfonamide (3c) and N, N-dimethyl-8-quinolinesulfonamide (3o) showed the best promising and pronounced nematicidal activity, with LC50 values of 0.2381 and 0.2259 mg/L, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered metal hydroxides (LMHs) are regarded as a novel and important class of inorganic functional materials. They have unique layered structure and variable chemical compositions that can be readily tuned. In this review, summarized are the recent advances of synthetic routes to the LMHs with designed morphology, composition, and function for electrocatalysis. Versatile products can be readily derived by hybridization, anion‐exchange, surface modification, self‐assembly, etc. More importantly, LMHs can be artificially exfoliated into unilamellar nanosheets with a molecular‐level thickness of about 1 nm versus 2D lateral size in submicrometer or micrometer scale. Molecular‐scale assembly can be then applied to fabricate superlattice‐like composites and functional nanofilms with high quality. The hydroxides can be transformed into oxides, nitrides, or other compounds via different preparation procedures, which can further extend their application prospects. In this regard, the most promising electrocatalysis‐related applications of LMHs and their derivatives are reviewed, such as oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, CO2 reduction reaction, alcohol or urea electrooxidation, etc. At last, future challenges are also discussed from the aspect of synthesis and application, as well as encouraging advancements are anticipated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The SC200 cyclotron is the critical component of the proton therapy system, which is being jointly developed by the Institute of Plasma Physics Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP), Hefei, China, and the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR), Dubna, Russia. It is an isochronous cyclotron to accelerate H+ ions and extract proton beam energies of 75–200 MeV with the maximum beam intensity of 1 ~ μ A. The maximum magnetic field intensity of the SC200 cyclotron is 4.6 T, and the accuracy of measurements for the average isochronous field is required to be better than 10−4. The magnetic gap decreases from 37 mm at cyclotron center to 9 mm at the pole edge. Hence, the difficulty of designing a magnetic field measurement system is increased because of the required magnetic field accuracy and the narrow gap between the poles. A measurement system has been developed to measure the magnetic field distribution in the median plane of the cyclotron by the SENIS Hall probe. After the Hall probe is calibrated by NMR, the measurement accuracy can reach ± 4 × 10−4 under the magnetic field intensity of 5 T. The position of the Hall probe will be monitored by grating and optical encoder, respectively, so as to ensure its correct positions. To verify the performance of the mapping system, it has been tested in the SC200 cyclotron with the designed vacuum degree. The test results showed that the mapping system can run smoothly and meet the measurement requirements of the SC200 cyclotron. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Co3FePx/C nanocomposites were derived from one-step phosphorization of anthraquinone-2-sulfonate (AQS2) intercalated Co3Fe layered double hydroxides (Co3Fe LDHs). The carbonized AQS2 confines Co3FePx nanoparticles in the amorphous carbon matrix during thermal treatment. Ultra-small and uniformly distributed Co3FePx/C nanoparticles in carbon exhibit excellent durability and outstanding OER catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 8-16-4 graphyne, a recently identified two-dimensional carbon allotrope, exhibits distinctive mechanical and electrical properties, making it a candidate material for flexible electronic applications. This study endeavors to enhance our comprehension of the fracture behavior and mechanical properties of 8-16-4 graphyne. The mechanical properties of 8-16-4 graphyne were evaluated through molecular dynamics simulations, examining the impact of boundary conditions, temperature, and strain rate, as well as the coupled interactions between temperature, vacancy defects, and microcracks. The findings reveal that 8-16-4 graphyne undergoes fracture via the cleavage of ethylene bonds at a critical strain value of approximately 0.29. Variations in boundary conditions and strain rate influence the fidelity of tensile simulation outcomes. Temperature, vacancy concentration, and the presence of microcracks markedly affect the mechanical properties of 8-16-4 graphyne. In contrast to other carbon allotropes, 8-16-4 graphyne exhibits a diminished sensitivity to vacancy defects in its mechanical performance. However, carbon vacancies at particular sites are more prone to initiating cracks. Furthermore, pre-existing microcracks within the material can potentially alter the fracture mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A coupled modes method is proposed to simulate the active mode locked laser. In this method, the electric fields of optical modes in the laser cavity are treated as free classical oscillators. The optical modulator provides the coupling among them. It is found that the eigenvalue of this coupled system is corresponding to the threshold optical gain, and the eigenfunction is corresponding to the optical field of each mode. The simulation results agree with the Master equation and experiments. Especially the model can be applied to the rational harmonic mode locking case by introducing the concept of ghost modes. The multitrip photons form a set of ghost modes or very weak oscillators. These ghost oscillators play the crucial rule working as the bridge to transfer energy and couple the real cavity modes/oscillators together. The model demonstrates both time domain pulse repetition rate multiplication and the frequency domain mode distribution. The proposed method will help understand the physics of rational harmonic mode locking mechanism and assist the design of devices such as optical pulse generator and multiwavelength laser. Therefore it should have great application in the optical signal generation and processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physicochemical changes of the instant green tea powders added with β-cyclodextrin and sodium ascorbate stored at 4°C and 25°C were investigated by determining moisture, polyphenols, caffeine, amino acids, catechins, color, sensory quality, and the total microbial count. The results showed that addition of both β-cyclodextrin (6%, w/w) and sodium ascorbate (2%, w/w) reduced the changes of moisture, polyphenols, and catechins contents, helped to maintain the sensory quality, and limited the microbial count. The low temperature (4°C) was also found to maintain the sensory quality and limit of the microbial count of instant green tea powder. The combination of low temperature and addition of β-cyclodextrin with sodium ascorbate were the best treatment for the storage of instant green tea powder. These results could provide useful information for the quality improvement of instant green tea powder during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Renal interstitial fibrosis is the most common of all the forms of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Research has shown that histone deacetylases (HDACs) participate in the process leading to renal fibrosis. However, the effects of class I HDAC inhibitors on the mechanisms of onset and progression of renal interstitial fibrosis are still unclear. Here, we present the effects and mechanisms of action of FK228 (a selective inhibitor of class I HDACs) in the murine model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and in vitro models. We investigated the antifibrotic role of FK228 in a murine model of UUO. We used two key effector cell populations, rat renal interstitial fibroblasts and renal tubular epithelial cells exposed to recombinant transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), to explore the mechanistic pathways among in vitro models. The results indicated that FK228 significantly suppressed the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) in both in vivo and in vitro models. FK228 inhibited renal fibroblast activation and proliferation and increased the acetylation of histone H3. We found that FK228 also inhibited the small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) and non-Smad signaling pathways. So FK228 could significantly suppress renal interstitial fibrosis via Smad and non-Smad pathways. FK228 may be the basis for a new and effective medicine for alleviating renal fibrosis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background After lung transplantation, the major complication limiting the long-term survival of allografts is obliterative bronchiolitis (OB), characterized by chronic rejection. Innate immune responses contribute to the development of OB. In this study, we used a murine heterotopic tracheal transplantation mouse model to examine the effects of a newtype of innate immune inhibitor, TJ-M2010–5. Methods Syngeneic tracheal grafts were transplanted heterotopically from C57BL/6 mice to C57BL/6 mice. Allografts from BALB/c mice were transplanted to C57BL/6 mice. The allograft recipients were treated with TJ-M2010–5, and anti-mouse CD154 (MR-1). The grafts were harvested at 7, 14, and 28 days and evaluated by histological and real-time RT-PCR analyses. Results In untreated allografts, almost all epithelial cells fell off at 7 days and tracheal occlusion reached a peak at 28 days. However, the loss of the epithelium and airway obstruction were significantly improved in mice treated with TJ-M2010–5 combined with MR-1. The relative mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were upregulated in allogeneic tracheal grafts, and treatment with the two drugs reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Conclusions In heterotopic tracheal transplantation models, TJ-M2010–5 combined with MR-1 could ameliorate the development of OB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract RF cavity which establishes an electric field to accelerate the charged particles is one of the most critical and complicated components in cyclotron. When the cavity is in a high-power operation, there will be a high temperature in RF cavity due to its own thermal loss. And it will cause mechanical deformation and frequency deviation to cavity. Those series of factors may influence the performances of cavity negatively. In this paper, thermal situation of RF cavity has been analyzed during high-power operation, and some optimizations are made to improve thermal performance. Frequency deviation of cavity is simulated through multi-physics analysis. Moreover, a low-power (∼ 20 kW) test has verified the thermal consideration, and the performances of prototype cavity in high-power operation which are estimated comply with the design goal. Highlights • A process of multi-physics analysis is developed for RF cavity. • Thermal situation of RF cavity has been analyzed during high-power operation. • Some optimizations are made to improve thermal performance of RF cavity. • Frequency deviation of cavity is simulated through the multi-physics analysis. • A low-power (∼ 20 kW) test has been done to verify the thermal consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of tetragonal nanoplatelet precursors with various Y/Yb/Er ratios can be successfully prepared in large quantities via a facile hydrothermal method using trimethylamine (TEA) as a hydrolysis reagent. Interestingly, tubular precursors can also be produced with the surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Moreover, the nanoplatelets and nanotubes topotactically convert into corresponding oxides through a calcination process at 650 °C for 2 h, and the original platelet-like and tubular morphologies are perfectly maintained. The luminescence properties of as-prepared Y2O3 are sensitively influenced by the dopant concentration. In addition, the doped Y2O3 nanoplatelets exhibit a stronger intensity than the nanotubes in the excitation and emission spectra. The rare-earth-doped Y2O3 precursors are promising candidates for potential applications in photonics, optics and display devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion cyclotron resonance frequency (ICRF) heating is a traditional auxiliary heating method applied to EAST. However, the antenna load will oscillate violently with the change of plasma parameters in the ICRF heating. But fast ferrite branch technology (FFT) can be used to achieve real-time impedance matching by controlling the bias magnetic field of FFT to adjust its equivalent electric length. So an excitation coil power supply is developed to satisfy the requirement of fast and stable change of FFT bias magnetic field. In the power supply design, the method of Pulse Width Modulation is used to achieve rapid real-time conversion of current, and to meet the needs of rapid power conversion. The paper introduces general design of PWM power supply, front DC power supply, energy storage filter circuit and constant current circuit of H bridge sequentially. And an experiment is set on the FFT excitation coil current changing with the control signal, indicating that the rapid real-time current conversion can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing applications of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in many areas, their recycling becomes a necessary task. Although great effort has been made in LIB recycling, there remains an urgent need for green and energy-efficient approaches. Here we report a non-destructive approach to regenerate cathode materials by hydrothermal treatment of cycled electrode particles followed by short annealing. Unlike the conventional chemical leaching or solid-state synthesis approach, which either requires complicated steps of leaching, precipitation and waste treatment or relies on the chemical analysis of the Li/Co ratio from cell to cell, our non-destructive approach is much simpler and more environmentally friendly, and can easily process batteries with different capacity degradation conditions. In addition, the regenerated LiCoO2 particles can retain their original morphology and structure, and provide high specific capacity and cycling stability. Importantly, they show much better rate capability than particles regenerated through the solid-state synthesis approach. Our work demonstrates a greener, simpler and more energy-efficient strategy to recycle and regenerate faded LiCoO2 cathode materials with high electrochemical performance. This approach can be widely used to recycle and regenerate LiCoO2 cathodes on a large scale, and can be potentially applied to other types of cathode materials in LIBs and mixed cathode chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Resonant converters have been widely applied in many fields, such as electric vehicles, renewable energy sources, and switch‐mode power supply. Conventional resonant converters generally adopt pulse frequency modulation (PFM), which would cause an extremely wide frequency variation range under wide output applications. However, it would lead to high electromagnetic interference (EMI), low utilization of magnetic components, and loss of soft switching features. For catering to wide output range applications, this paper proposes a self‐adaptive narrow frequency range PFM and asymmetrical voltage‐cancelation hybrid modulation strategy to solve the above problem. The advantages of the proposed strategy include (1) narrow frequency variation range; (2) self‐adaptive shift frequency; and (3) full process achievement of zero voltage switch. The modulation strategy and operational principle and performance analysis of the proposed method are given. Eventually, a series resonant converters–based experimental platform was implemented to verify the proposed strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel two-step exposure method for the fabrication of apodized fiber Bragg gratings (AFBG’s) with arbitrary apodization functions has been proposed in this paper. The method can be fulfilled by two-step exposures with specially designed apodization and compensation masks for each step, respectively. The masks were driven by a motor which was program controlled according to the desired apodization function. For the sake of validation, three types of AFBG’s, with Linear, Gaussian, and Nuttall apodization functions, respectively, have been experimentally fabricated using the proposed method, and the effects of some unideal experimental setups on the reflection spectra of the FBG’s were analyzed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally modified low-density lipoprotein (mmLDL) is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The present study was designed to investigate the role of mmLDL in the endothelium-dependent relaxation of mouse mesenteric arteries. A sensitive myograph system was employed to examine the endothelial function of mesenteric arteries. mRNA and protein expression levels were determined using real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. The ultra-microstructure of mesenteric vascular beds was investigated using a transmission electron microscope. The results showed that mmLDL significantly impaired the acetylcho-line-induced (3 x 10-10 to 1 x 10-4 M) endothelium-dependent relaxation of mouse mesenteric arteries with markedly reduced pIC50 (p < 0.05) and Rmax values (p < 0.001). In addition, mmLDL increased the levels of superoxide production and nitrotyrosine concentration and impaired the endothelial microstructure with decreased KCa3.1 and KCa2.3 expression. In conclusion, mmLDL increases superoxide and nitro-tyrosine levels, damages endothelial microstructure with decreased KCa3.1 and KCa2.3 expression, and ultimately attenuates relaxation mediated by nitric oxide- and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gold(i)-catalyzed dehydrogenative cycloisomerization of cyclopropane-tethered 1,5-enynes proceeded smoothly to give multisubstituted benzene derivatives in good to excellent yields. Synthetically important benzocyclobutenes can be produced in high yields in the presence of a gold(i) catalyst and DDQ. Furthermore, this reaction also works very well for non-cyclopropane tethered 1,5-enynes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Surficial CuO modification enhances Li affinity of Ni foam for easy thermal infusion. • The influence of different morphologies of CuO on guiding Li plating/stripping behavior is investigated. • CuO nanoneedle arrays can overcome the nucleation barrier and redistribute the Li+ flux. • The composite electrode delivers outstanding electrochemical performances. Undesirable dendrite growth and infinite volume expansion are the major barriers to the potential application for next-generation safe Li metal batteries. To solve these problems, we herein report electroplating CuO nanoneedle arrays on Ni foam (NCNF) as 3D porous framework for Li metal batteries. The influence of different morphologies of CuO on guiding Li plating/stripping behavior has been investigated. The homogenous deposition of Li can be attributed to the interspace between the CuO nanoneedles, which is remarkably superior over granular CuO on Ni foam (GCNF) at high areal capacity. The hierarchical skeleton can not only decrease local current inhomogeneity but also alleviate the volume change of Li. The NCNF electrode delivers a higher Coulombic efficiency of Li deposition comparing with the bare Ni foam and GCNF. Furthermore, enhanced cycling stability with small overpotential can be achieved in symmetric cells. In a Li/LiFePO 4 full cell, the excellent cycling performance also proves the superiority of NCNF@Li composite electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ion Cyclotron Range of Frequency (ICRF) heating has been adopted in EAST tokamak as one of main auxiliary heating methods. The ICRF antenna usually consists of multiple launching elements because of limited port and space of tokamak device. Mutual coupling between straps has been observed in previous EAST ICRF current drive experiments. Due to adverse effects of such mutual coupling, many issues induced by cross power cannot be ignored, such as power imbalance in feed lines, high voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), and etc. To restrain such mutual coupling, A device named decoupler was developed and tested in EAST ICRF system. According to the admittance matrix of load, three assembly positions (oscillation position, optimum position, and smooth position) along transmission line for the decoupler were taken into account and tested. The test results showed that ohmic dissipation in decoupler could not be neglected, which partly influenced the decoupling performance. The oscillation position and optimum position could restrain such adverse effects of ohmic dissipation and showed good decoupling performance. However, they cannot ensure the steady operation during H-mod due to the load variation. Finally, the smooth position has been adopted for EAST I port antenna because of steady decoupling performance comprised with engineering error and load resilience, which sincerely enhance the capability of system operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a watermarking algorithm to synchronously transmit Gong-Che notation musical scores and their musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) information. Our algorithm transforms the MIDI information into a binary sequence, which is used to form watermarking data. This watermark is embedded into the Gong-Che notation musical score image, using an inward clockwise rotation. The algorithm then uses optical music recognition to judge whether the musical information in the image is loss. Experiments have validated the effectiveness of our watermarking and expansion algorithms. The expansion process increases transmission accuracy, and the added processing time is minimal. Furthermore, our methodology can be applied to other musical notations such as conventional musical notation or numbered musical notation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate whether parameters from IDEAL-IQ/amide proton transfer MRI (APTWI) could help predict histopathological factors of rectal cancer. Preoperative IDEAL-IQ and APTWI sequences of 67 patients with rectal cancer were retrospectively analyzed. The intra-tumoral proton density fat fraction (PDFF), R2* and magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym (3.5 ppm)) were measured according to the histopathological factors of rectal cancer. The relationship between MR parameters and histopathological factors were analyzed, along with diagnostic performance of MR parameters. PDFF, R2* and MTRasym (3.5 ppm) were statistically different between T1+T2/T3+T4 stages, non-metastatic/metastatic lymph nodes, lower/higher tumor grade and negative/positive status of MRF and EMVI (p < 0.001 for PDFF, p = 0.000–0.015 for R2* and p = 0.000–0.006 for MTRasym (3.5 ppm)). There were positive correlations between the above parameters and the histopathological features of rectal cancer (r = 0.464–0.723 for PDFF (p < 0.001), 0.299–0.651 for R2* (p = 0.000–0.014), and 0.337–0.667 for MTRasym (3.5 ppm) (p = 0.000–0.005)). MTRasym (3.5 ppm) correlated moderately and mildly with PDFF (r = 0.563, p < 0.001) and R2* (r = 0.335, p = 0.006), respectively. PDFF provided a significantly higher diagnostic ability than MTRasym (3.5 ppm) for distinguishing metastatic from non-metastatic lymph nodes (z = 2.407, p = 0.0161). No significant differences were found in MR parameters for distinguishing other histopathological features (p > 0.05). IDEAL-IQ and APTWI were associated with histopathological factors of rectal cancer, and might serve as non-invasive biomarkers for characterizing rectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel phosphine-catalyzed [4+1] annulation of maleimides with 4,4-dicyano-2-methylenebut-3-enoates has been developed to afford spirocyclic products, and the maleimides serves as C1 synthons. Moreover, a phosphine-catalyzed formal [3+2] annulation between 4,4-dicyano-2-methylenebut-3-enoates and maleic anhydride has been also achieved, and maleic anhydride behaved as a C3 synthon in the reaction, thus efficiently affording the functionalized cyclopentenones. A stable phosphinium-containing zwitterionic compound is the key reactive intermediate in both annulations and was successfully isolated. Plausible mechanisms have been proposed on the basis of control experiments and deuterium-labeling experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel phosphine-catalyzed [4+1] annulation of maleimides with 4,4-dicyano-2-methylenebut-3-enoates has been developed to afford spirocyclic products, and the maleimides serves as C1 synthons. Moreover, a phosphine-catalyzed formal [3+2] annulation between 4,4-dicyano-2-methylenebut-3-enoates and maleic anhydride has been also achieved, and maleic anhydride behaved as a C3 synthon in the reaction, thus efficiently affording the functionalized cyclopentenones. A stable phosphinium-containing zwitterionic compound is the key reactive intermediate in both annulations and was successfully isolated. Plausible mechanisms have been proposed on the basis of control experiments and deuterium-labeling experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Ru0- and RhI-catalyzed noncarbonylative and carbonylative cycloisomerization of readily available 3-alkynyl imine derivatives has been developed to provide 3,4-fused or nonfused pyrrole derivatives efficiently in moderate to excellent yields. The key steps involve the formation of a ruthenium carbenoid intermediate or a rhodacycle intermediate, respectively. In these reactions, CO can serve as a ligand or a reagent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Ru0- and RhI-catalyzed noncarbonylative and carbonylative cycloisomerization of readily available 3-alkynyl imine derivatives has been developed to provide 3,4-fused or nonfused pyrrole derivatives efficiently in moderate to excellent yields. The key steps involve the formation of a ruthenium carbenoid intermediate or a rhodacycle intermediate, respectively. In these reactions, CO can serve as a ligand or a reagent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report a facile hydrothermal route for the synthesis of Fe2O3 nanoparticles and their composites with conductive additives, reduced graphite oxide (rGO) and conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS, as anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The addition of conductive polymer layer on Fe2O3 nanoparticles may facilitate the electron transport but hinders the Li+ ion insertion at higher current density. On the other hand, Fe2O3@rGO prepared by growing Fe2O3 nanoparticles directly on rGO sheets shows the best electrochemical behavior due to a beneficial combination of the rGO nanosheets partially wrapped around Fe2O3 which facilitates both the electron transport and the Li+ ion insertion. The enhanced conductivity of the composites was proved. The high specific capacity and stable rate performance of Fe2O3@rGO composites encourages their further study to be potential candidate for the anode materials in LIBs. These results will be helpful in further elucidation of the role of conductive additives in improving the electrochemical performance of Fe2O3 based composite anodes and this simple synthetic strategy can be applied for the large scale production of metal oxides with conductive additives for LIBs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Adsorption and coagulation were commonly used to alleviate reverse osmosis (RO) membrane fouling caused by dissolved organic matters (DOM), but the effects of changed composition and structure of DOM in dyeing wastewater after adsorption and coagulation on RO membrane fouling have seldom been studied. This study aimed at resolving the mechanism how the RO membrane fouling during dyeing wastewater treatment was alleviated by using adsorption and coagulation. The dyeing wastewater caused serious RO membrane fouling. Pretreatment with granular activated carbon (GAC), polyferric sulfate (PFS) and polyaluminum chloride (PACl) were conducted. It was shown that GAC could remove most of the DOM (95%) and preferred to adsorb protein, hydrophobic neutrals and fluorescent compounds. Both coagulants of PFS and PACl preferred to remove polysaccharides (the removal rate was 9–19% higher than that of DOM), high-MW compounds and these compounds with high fouling potential. Afterwards, the RO membrane fouling potential of the dyeing wastewater was tested. The GAC and PFS performed well to alleviate fouling. After GAC treatment, the decline rate of RO flux was similar to that of raw wastewater after 6-fold dilution. With pretreatment by PFS or PACl, the fouling potential of dyeing wastewater was much lower than that of raw wastewater after diluted to the same DOM content. Changes in polysaccharides content in the DOM had more effects on RO membrane fouling than that of proteins after these pretreatment. Although the DOM changed significantly after pretreatment, the fouling type was still intermediate blocking. [Display omitted] • Activated carbon preferred to remove fluorescent compounds and low-MW DOM. • Coagulants of PFS and PACl preferred to remove polysaccharides and high-MW DOM. • PFS and PAC preferred to remove compounds with high fouling potential. • PFS and GAC effectively alleviated RO membrane fouling caused by dyeing wastewater. • Polysaccharides had more negative effects on RO membrane fouling than proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were the main cause of membrane biofouling in advanced treatment of wastewater. Disinfection was usually used to reduce microbial concentration in the feed water and prevent biofouling. However, the disinfection residual bacteria (DRB) could regrow to produce EPS, and there was still a paucity of information on EPS productivity and properties from DRB and their further interaction with membranes. In this study, three commonly-used disinfection methods (free chlorine, chloramine and ozone disinfection) were used to investigate their effects on microbial EPS production and the further effects on membrane fouling. It was found all the disinfection treatment increased the relative abundance of typical bacterial genus with high EPS production ability, and thus significantly enhanced EPS volumetric productivity (by 26%–82%). The molecular weight and fluorescence intensity of EPS produced by DRB also increased. The fouling potential of these EPS on ultrafiltration (UF) membranes and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes was then tested. EPS of DRB showed significantly higher fouling potential. Compared with the control group, the time for transmembrane pressure (TMP) increased to 3 bar decreased by 43%–49% in the constant-flow UF system in the disinfection groups. As for the constant-pressure RO systems, the final flux decreased by 33%–41% in the disinfection groups compared with the control group. The thickness of foulants on UF and RO membranes in the disinfection groups was all higher than that in the control group. The extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (XDLVO) theory further showed that the EPS of DRB had significantly higher interaction energy with membranes than that in the control group. Therefore, caution should be exercised when oxidizing disinfection was used as pre-treatment for membrane filtration in the wastewater reclamation process. [Display omitted] • Disinfection by chlorine, chloramine and ozone enhanced EPS productivity by 26%–82%. • Disinfection enhanced the molecular weight and fluorescence intensity of EPS. • EPS of disinfection residual bacteria showed higher UF/RO membrane fouling potential. • In disinfection group, the thickness of foulants on membranes significantly increased. • The interaction energy between EPS and membrane was much higher in disinfection group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were the main cause of membrane biofouling in advanced treatment of wastewater. Disinfection was usually used to reduce microbial concentration in the feed water and prevent biofouling. However, the disinfection residual bacteria (DRB) could regrow to produce EPS, and there was still a paucity of information on EPS productivity and properties from DRB and their further interaction with membranes. In this study, three commonly-used disinfection methods (free chlorine, chloramine and ozone disinfection) were used to investigate their effects on microbial EPS production and the further effects on membrane fouling. It was found all the disinfection treatment increased the relative abundance of typical bacterial genus with high EPS production ability, and thus significantly enhanced EPS volumetric productivity (by 26%–82%). The molecular weight and fluorescence intensity of EPS produced by DRB also increased. The fouling potential of these EPS on ultrafiltration (UF) membranes and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes was then tested. EPS of DRB showed significantly higher fouling potential. Compared with the control group, the time for transmembrane pressure (TMP) increased to 3 bar decreased by 43%–49% in the constant-flow UF system in the disinfection groups. As for the constant-pressure RO systems, the final flux decreased by 33%–41% in the disinfection groups compared with the control group. The thickness of foulants on UF and RO membranes in the disinfection groups was all higher than that in the control group. The extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (XDLVO) theory further showed that the EPS of DRB had significantly higher interaction energy with membranes than that in the control group. Therefore, caution should be exercised when oxidizing disinfection was used as pre-treatment for membrane filtration in the wastewater reclamation process. [Display omitted] • Disinfection by chlorine, chloramine and ozone enhanced EPS productivity by 26%–82%. • Disinfection enhanced the molecular weight and fluorescence intensity of EPS. • EPS of disinfection residual bacteria showed higher UF/RO membrane fouling potential. • In disinfection group, the thickness of foulants on membranes significantly increased. • The interaction energy between EPS and membrane was much higher in disinfection group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Sediments in concentrated green tea included reversible and irreversible sediments. [•] Most reversible sediments formed before irreversible tea sediments during storage. [•] Reversible tea sediments contributed more than 90% of the total sediment. [•] Large amount of minerals (17.1%, w/w) were found in irreversible tea sediments. [•] Oxalate was the main component of the irreversible tea sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hybrid Co x Ni1−x (OH)2 nanosheets have been successfully synthesized via a facile microwave-assisted synthetic route. The size of Co x Ni1−x (OH)2 nanosheets decreases with the increase of nickel amount; however, the layered crystal structure can be maintained at any ratios of Co:Ni due to the chemical and physical similarities between these two elements. The lattice spacing of the hexagonal nanosheets can be slightly varied by adjusting the ratios of Co:Ni. The hybrid Co0.2Ni0.8(OH)2 hexagonal nanosheets deliver a high capacity of above 1170 F g−1 at a current density of 4 A g−1. The higher specific capacitance of Co0.2Ni0.8(OH)2 nanosheets than their monometallic counterpart could be attributed to the enhancement of the electro-active sites participated in the redox reaction due to the possible valence interchange or charge hopping between Co and Ni cations. These results indicate the importance of layered hydroxide nanosheets with tuned transition-metal composition for high-performance energy storage devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The reaction of methylenecyclopropanes (MCPs) with tetrahydrofuran (THF) proceed smoothly in the presence of AgOC(O)CF3 and electrophilic halogenation reagents to give the corresponding 4-(3-halobut-3-enyloxy)butyl 2,2,2-trifluoroacetate derivatives in moderate yields through dual cleavage of C-C and C-O bonds under mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel asymmetric [4+2] annulation of vinyl ketones with oxindole-derived α,β-unsaturated imines has been developed in the presence of a multifunctional thiourea-phosphine catalyst derived from a natural amino acid, providing the first phosphine-catalyzed enantioselective synthesis of 2′,3′-dihydro-1′ H-spiro[indoline-3,4′-pyridin]-2-ones in good yields with excellent stereoselectivities under mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Co(OH)2 hexagonal nanosheets can be prepared via a facile microwave-assisted route. [•] Porous Co3O4 nanosheets can be obtained via the calcination of Co(OH)2 nanosheets. [•] The stability and high capacity enable them to be potential candidate for LIB anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soluble microbial products (SMP) are one of the main causes of reverse osmosis (RO) membrane fouling in wastewater reclamation, and coagulation and adsorption are commonly used to prevent such fouling. However, the mechanism by which typical coagulants and adsorbents affect the RO membrane fouling caused by SMP remains unclear. In this study, two bacterial strains isolated from fouled RO membranes in a full-scale wastewater reclamation plant were used to produce SMP. Both bacterial strains were found to generate high SMP yield (0.23–0.25 g/g), which caused severe RO membrane fouling. Coagulation by polyaluminum chloride (PACl) and ferric chloride (FeCl 3) and adsorption by granular activated carbon (GAC) were applied as pretreatment methods to alleviate the membrane fouling caused by SMP. Compared with PACl, FeCl 3 performed better in removing SMP, decreasing fluorescence intensity, and reducing molecular weight (MW). GAC preferentially adsorbed protein and humic substances in SMP and unselectively and efficiently removed fluorescent compounds; however, it could only remove a limited amount of the high-MW compound. The RO membrane fouling potential of treated SMP was investigated, and FeCl 3 and GAC were found to effectively alleviate the fouling. In addition to a decrease in the dissolved organic carbon content of SMP, a decrease in specific fluorescence intensity, MW, and polysaccharide content caused by coagulation or adsorption could result in lower RO membrane fouling. [Display omitted] • Bacteria on RO membranes had high SMP yield and the SMP severely fouled RO membranes. • FeCl 3 performed better in SMP removal than PAC. • Activated carbon prefers to remove fluorescent compounds and low-MW SMP. • FeCl 3 and GAC could effectively alleviate RO membrane fouling caused by SMP. • Reducing polysaccharide content of SMP significantly alleviate RO membrane fouling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suppose that T is a spanning tree of a graph G. T is called a locally connected spanning tree of G if for every vertex of T, the set of all its neighbors in T induces a connected subgraph of G. In this paper, given an intersection model of a circular-arc graph, an O( n)-time algorithm is proposed that can determine whether the circular-arc graph contains a locally connected spanning tree or not, and produce one if it exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]