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In this study, a new structure is proposed based on the body-centered cubic (BCC) lattice structure by adding a cubic truss in the center of the BCC structure and denoting it TLC (truss–lattice–cube). The different dimensions of the central cube can notably affect the mechanical properties of the lattice structure. With a fixed length (15 mm) of a unit cell, the optimal size for the central cube is determined to be 5 mm. Quasi-static compressive tests are performed on specimens made of polylactic acid (PLA) using additive manufacturing technology. The deformation characteristics of the new structure are analyzed in detail by experiments and numerical simulations. Compared to the BCC structure, the mechanical properties of the TLC structure were significantly improved. The initial flow stress of the TLC increased by 122% at a strain of 0.1; the specific strength enhanced by 293% at a strain of 0.5; and the specific energy absorption improved by 312% at a strain of 0.6. Printing defects in the lattice structure may remarkably damage its mechanical properties. In this work, incorporation of microcracks into the finite element model allows the simulation to capture the influence of printing defects and significantly improve the predictive accuracy of the simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a kind of structural and functional integrated ceramic material with excellent mechanical and optical properties. A series of Er-doped Zr 6 Nb 2 O 17 ceramic samples were prepared by the high-temperature solid-phase method, which showed reversible photochromism from light curry to dark brown under the alternating action of 365 nm UV light and heat treatment at 350 °C. The photochromic process is fully reversible and has good cyclic stability with a maximum photochromic contrast of 20.1%. The fluorescence modulation behavior based on the photochromic reaction can effectively modulate the emission of Er3+, and the maximum fluorescence modulation ratio reaches 62%. The best Vickers hardness and fracture toughness values of the prepared Zr 6 Nb 2 O 17 : Er ceramics reached 15.88 GPa and 4.5 MPa m1/2 respectively. The mechanisms of the observed photochromism, photoluminescence, and fluorescence modulation were studied systematically. This work is expected to provide significant guidance for the development of high-performance colored ceramic materials and broaden its market application field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The South China Sea (SCS) is one of the largest marginal seas in the world, but the processes that control the silicon cycle are not well understood. Here, we analyse the factors that affect the distribution of biogenic silica (bSi) in SCS sediments and discuss the silicon cycle based on a box model. Our results show that the bSi content (~ 1.2%) in the shelf-slope (< 2000 m) sediments is lower overall than that (~ 2%) in the basin (> 2000 m) sediments. The dilution by terrestrial input, degradation rate of biogenic materials and lateral transport by current patterns are the main factors influencing the bSi content in SCS sediments. The bSi burial flux in the shelf-slope region (161 ± 156 Gmol-Si yr−1) is six times greater than that in the basin region (27 ± 18 Gmol-Si yr−1) due to higher burial rates, larger sea area, and coarser sediments. The estimated bSi burial efficiency (ratio of the bSi burial rate divided by the sum of the benthic silicic acid (dSi) diffusion rate and the burial rate) in SCS sediments is 27%, comparable to those of other marginal seas. Therefore, at the sediment–water interface, 73% of Si is recycled back to the water column. From compiled datasets of water fluxes and dSi concentrations over the past decades, we calculate a total output silicon flux of dSi of 2259 ± 397 Gmol-Si yr−1 for the SCS, which is not significantly different from the total input flux (2196 ± 458 Gmol-Si yr−1), suggesting that the Si cycle of this marginal sea is in a steady state. Interestingly, the submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) flux (477 ± 140 Gmol-Si yr−1) in the SCS is 2.5 times higher than the riverine dSi and dissolvable amorphous silica input (194 ± 40 Gmol-Si yr−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) have gained increasing attention as potential candidates for conductive and self-sensing concretes. This study investigated the effect of fly ash microspheres and quartz sands on the piezoelectric properties of carbon fiber-reinforced alkali-activated fly ash/slag (AAFS) mortars. The rheological property, mechanical property, resistivity, and piezoelectric properties of different AAFS mortars were investigated. Our findings demonstrated that the use of fly ash microspheres (FAM) significantly reduced the yield stress and plastic viscosity of the mortars due to the "ball bearings" effect. In addition, the finer particles of FAM led to a dense gel pore structure of AAFS. The use of FAM improved carbon fiber dispersion and formed a stable conductive network. Therefore, AAFS mortars with FAM exhibited superior conductivity and piezoelectricity. The use of quartz sands exhibited adverse effects on the self-sensing properties of AAFS mortars. The incorporation of quartz sands predominantly hindered the conductive network formation of carbon fibers, resulting in a significantly higher resistivity and piezoresistivity with low strain sensitivity. • The use of FAM in carbon fiber reinforced-AAFS results in superior conductivity and piezoresistivity. • FAM improved the rheology of AAFS, facilitating the dispersion of carbon fibers. • The use of quartz sands led to a higher resistivity and poor piezoresistivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are regarded as promising alternatives to Portland cement. However, the significant high shrinkage of AAMs, particularly in alkali-activated slag system, is a critical issue that hinders their wide application. This study investigated the effect of expansive admixture, i.e. CaO on the autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of alkali-activated slag/ fly ash microsphere (AASFAM). The effect of CaO content on heat evolution, reaction products, microstructure development and compressive strength was systematically investigated. The results revealed that the addition of CaO can effectively reduce both the autogenous and drying shrinkage of AASFAM. Mixture with 3% and 5% CaO exhibited expansion within the first 24 hours after casting, while the drying shrinkage was reduced by 72% and 82%, respectively. The addition of CaO promoted the formation of crystalline phases including Ca(OH) 2 , hydrotalcite and calcite, leading to a lower free water content and coarser pore structure, which in turn reduced the capillary stress during the drying process. The results demonstrated the promising potential of CaO in effectively mitigating the high autogenous shrinkage and drying shrinkage of AAMs without compromising its mechanical properties. • The addition of CaO can effectively reduce both the autogenous and drying shrinkage of AASFAM. • The addition of CaO facilitates the crystalline phases in AASFAM including Ca(OH) 2 , hydrotalcite and calcite. • The formation of Ca (OH) 2 led to a larger pore size distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly aggressive form of breast cancer, currently lacks targeted therapies and is associated with high recurrence rates in medical practice. In this study, the effectiveness of a specially developed magnetic nanodrug, namely doxorubicin (DOX)‐loaded Fe3O4 vortex magnetic nanoannulars coated with a cancer cell membrane (DOX‐VMAs@CM), against cancer under a varying low‐frequency magnetic field (MF), is investigated. This advanced nanodrug can specifically target and accumulate in tumors. Additionally, it considerably improves tumor suppression compared with that of DOX chemotherapy alone, indicating the possibility of homologous targeting of the cancer cell membrane and the vibrating effect of the MF. The DOX‐VMAs@CM nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit exceptional safety characteristics because of their ability to specifically target tumors. The results of RNA sequencing suggest that the potential mechanisms may involve cellular respiration, cell cycle, and ferroptosis regulation. Altogether, chemotherapy is successfully optimized by implementing a delivery system and MF intervention, and the developed DOX‐VMAs@CM NPs hold significant potential for use in the clinical treatment of TNBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The Ni cations precise directional doping and P ions targeted linking was synthesized via a step wise assembly method. • The Ni cations precise directional doping and P ions targeted linking improved the electronic environment of S ions in CdS V -Ni-P. • The Ni cations precise directional doping and P ions targeted linking in CdS V -Ni-P weaken the S-H adsorption bond in CdS V -Ni-P. Ni directional doping in the lattice of CdS V with the Ni cations targeted linked to P (CdS V -Ni-P) was successfully synthesized via a step wise assembly method, which exhibited an excellent photocatalytic hydrogen production performance. The photoelectric performance characterization proved that the Ni directional doping and Ni cations targeted linked with P in CdS V -Ni-P not only accelerating the photo-generated electrons transfer but also decreasing efficiency of the charge recombination. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations proved that CdS V -Ni-P can also induce more charge-carriers participate in photocatalytic reaction and decrease electron binding restriction capacity. Moreover, the results of UV–vis DR spectra and VB-XPS spectra confirmed that the construction of this CdS V -Ni-P could effectively narrow the bandgap. Meanwhile, the result of Gibbs free energy demonstrated the S-H adsorption bond in CdS V -Ni-P was get weaken, which is benefit for hydrogen desorption from S sites, thus achieving a high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) result. Based on the synergistic effects, CdS V -Ni 6.7 -P 9.6 presented a relatively high hydrogen evolution rate of 167.5 mmol h-1g−1 under the visible light irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm), which is almost 60 times of CdS V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of smart concretes with self-sensing properties has gained increasing attention recently. In this study, the effect of different precursors, including blast furnace slag, fly ash, silica fume, and metakaolin, on the electrical conductivity and piezoresistive properties of alkali-activated materials (AAMs) with and without carbon fiber (CF) was investigated. The experimental results revealed that the electrical and self-sensing properties of AAMs were significantly influenced by the raw materials, both with and without carbon fiber. However, distinct trends were observed. The use of silica fume (25 wt%) was beneficial to the self-sensing property of CF-AAM mortars. Mixtures containing fly ash and pure slag exhibited higher sensitivity but with reduced repeatability of the piezoresistivity. Due to the poor dispersion of carbon fibers, as well as the porous microstructure, mixtures with metakaolin had poorer conductivity and piezoresistivity. AAM mortars had evident piezoresistivity under cyclic loading, but their stability was inferior to that of AAM with carbon fibers. The pore size distribution and gel pore quantity of the binder phase were important factors determining the conductive and piezoresistive properties of CF-AAM mortars. • AAM mortars without carbon fiber presented evident piezoresistivity but with poor stability. • The use of silica fume was beneficial to the self-sensing property of CF-AAM. • Mixtures with metakaolin had poorer conductivity and piezoresistivity. • The pore size distribution and gel pore quantity were important for the conductivity of CF-AAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The surface S-vacancies acted as an electronic reservoir and enriched electrons. • The amorphous carbon in the nanocomposite was employed as photo-sensitizers. • The S-vacancies and the carbon enhanced the photo-absorption and photo-responsibility. Carbon -MoS 2−x @CdS (C-MoS 2−x @CdS) core-shell nanostructures with controlled surface sulfur (S) vacancies were prepared via a glucose assisted hydrothermal growth method. The glucose acted as a reducing agent of C-MoS 2−X to partially reduce Mo4+ ions to Mo3+ and served as a carbon source to insert the amorphous carbon into the layered MoS 2−X simultaneously. The presence of Mo3+ result in the surface S-vacancies, which can provide more additional active sites and enhance the photocatalytic performance. Moreover, the inserted carbon in layered MoS 2−X enhanced the electron mobility and decreased the resistance electron transfer. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation confirmed that the surface S-vacancies and the amorphous carbon increase the projected density of states at the conduct band edge, which could enhance the photo-absorption and photo-responsibility. The result is consistent with the photocatalytic H 2 production experiment. C2-10%MoS 2−x @CdS presented a high H 2 evolution rate of 61,494 μmol h−1 g−1 under visible light irrigation (λ ≥ 420 nm), which is 1.98 times and 158 times higher than that of sample without S-vacancies (10%MoS 2 @CdS) and pure CdS, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interfacial conjugation was employed to engineering preparation of TiO 2 @NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe) heterojunction photocataysts through carboxylate bidentate linkage with TiO 2 and NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe), which can enhance the electron transfer capability from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to TiO 2 and photocatalytic activity. The carbon nanospheres derived from glucose act as reducing agent and template to synthesize oxygen vacancies TiO 2 hollow nanospheres. Then, the oxygen vacancies were employed as antennas to connect 2-aminoterephtalic acid as bidentate carboxylate chelating linkage on TiO 2 , which have been proved by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Subsequently, NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe) was coordinatingly formed on the surface of TiO 2. The conjugation effects between TiO 2 and NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe) enhanced the electron transfer capability and could also induce the band tail states to narrow bandgap of the composites. Thus, the photodegradability of methylene blue was remarkably enhanced under visible light irradiation. The degradation rate of TiO 2 @17%NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe) was 0.131 min−1, which was about 3.5 and 65 times higher than that of NH 2 -MIL-101(Fe) and TiO 2 , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second-phase particles in magnesium alloys could affect the mechanical properties of the material significantly. In this work, 3D finite element models with explicit incorporation of second-phase particles are established. The simulations are calibrated with the experimental results of the Mg-1Gd alloy. The influences of factors, such as the particle distribution, size, and orientation of cylindrical particles, on precipitation hardening are investigated in detail. Three interface conditions between particles and the matrix—perfect bonding and high- and low-strength bonding—are studied at the same time. The interface conditions are shown to exert a stronger influence on precipitation hardening compared to the factors of particle distribution and size. In contrast, the influence of the orientation of cylindrical particles at grain boundaries outweighs the effect of interface property. When second-phase particles are relatively large and all located at grain boundaries, the hardening effect can be improved, and the magnesium alloy shows relatively high flow stress. However, the high hardening effect from the second-phase particles could result in high local stress concentration and possible early failure or low ductility of Mg alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of active distribution network (ADN) and the increase of penetration rate of new energy such as wind power and photovoltaic, the optimal operation problem of ADN is facing challenges. So, this paper proposes a multi-time scale optimal dispatch method based on mixed-integer linear programming to improve the calculation speed of the traditional dispatching model. First, the linear branch power flow of distribution network is introduced, and the main elements in ADN are modeled, meanwhile, the linearization method is used to simplify the non-linear components. Then, the day-ahead dispatch model is established by considering the active and reactive power coordination. In addition, in order to reduce the influence of the stochastic power from DG and FL on dispatch results, taking the results of day-ahead dispatch as reference, an auxiliary short-term dispatch model is also constructed to maximize the consumption of wind and photovoltaic (PV) power. Finally, the validity and reliability of the proposed method are verified by a modified IEEE 33-node distribution system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, heterostructured copper films containing different proportions of highly (220)-oriented vertical nanotwins were prepared by direct current (DC) electroplating. Uniaxial tensile tests showed that the mechanical properties improved notably when the volume ratio of the vertical nanotwins increased—the film with the 88% vertical twins exhibited the ultimate tensile strength of 455 MPa, approximately 83% higher than those of the equiaxed Cu films. Postmortem electron microscopy characterizations, assisted by molecular dynamics simulations, revealed that these special heterostructures of the equiaxed grains and vertical nanotwins facilitated the activation of multi-mode slip systems. The activation of multi-mode slip systems leads to higher dislocation density, thus endowing the material with enhanced mechanical strength and work hardening rate without significant loss of ductility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanogels exhibit potential application values in drug delivery systems because of their tunable properties and biocompatibility. In this study, multifunctional hyaluronic-based nanogels (HNPs), all-trans retinoid acid (ATRA)/aggregation-induced emission luminogen (AIEgen) fluorophores (TPENH2)-grafted hyaluronic acid (HA) with disulfide bonds as linkers of (HA-ss-ATRA/TPENH2), were successfully developed for doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) delivery. Besides, the controls of HA-ATRA/TPENH2 were also developed for comparison. The HNPs with nanoscale particle sizes possessed an excellent DOX-loading capacity. As expected, the DOX-loaded HNPs exhibited the higher stability in a normal physiological environment (10 µM GSH), but rapidly disintegrated in the cancer microenvironment (20 mM GSH) according to an in vitro drug release study. The intracellular observation of HNPs by the fluorescence microscopy indicated that the self-fluorescent DOX-loaded HNPs with unique AIEgen characteristic transported DOX into the cancer cells and visibly accumulated within the cytoplasm. Importantly, the accumulation of DOX-loaded HNPs was largely increased due to the targeted reorganization of CD44 or LYCE-1 receptors by HA moieties on the surface of HNPs. Based on in vitro cytotoxicity analyses, the DOX-loaded HNPs displayed dramatically enhanced virulence to cancer cells compared to the controls and free DOX. This is the first study to achieve combined functionalities of targeted delivery, controllable release and real-time intracellular imaging on HA-base nanogels with enhanced antitumor efficiency. Therefore, the multifunctional HA-ss-ATRA/TPENH2 HNPs have good potential to develop a novel drug delivery platform for the targeted delivery and controlled release of DOX to achieve enhanced antitumor efficiency as well as real-time intracellular imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interstitial carbon-doped anatase TiO 2 with bidentate carboxylate ligands (A-C/TiO 2 ) has been prepared through a novel vapour-assisted solvothermal approach and subsequent low temperature calcination process. The bidentate carboxylate ligands could not only strengthen the interaction between the interstitial carbon dopants and TiO 2 lattice to narrow the bandgap and enhance the visible-light absorption, but also give rise to the positive shift of the VB edge and cause further bandgap narrowing by inducing the band tail states above the VB edge. These synergistic effects could significantly improve the visible-light photocatalytic activities of interstitial carbon-doped TiO 2 on phenol and MO degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, core-shell organic corrosion inhibitors (COCI) based on poly(ethylene oxide)-b-polystyrene (PEO-b-PS) copolymers were successfully prepared. The release process of benzotriazole (BTA) reserved in COCI was investigated by UV spectrophotometry in deionized water and simulated concrete pore (SCP) solutions with different pH values, and the size and morphology of COCI were determined by dynamic light scattering measurements and SEM combined with EDS before and after the release process. The release amount of BTA was slightly higher (9%) in deionized water with lower pH values, which was related to the higher protonation degree of oxygen groups in PEO moieties and less compact structure of COCI at lower pH environment. In SCP solutions, the pH sensitivity of BTA release process was more pronounced, evidenced by 5 times lower release amount of BTA in SCP solution with a pH value of 13, compared to SCP solutions with pH values lower than 11. The most plausible reason is that in SCP solution with a pH value of 13, the existence of Ca 2 + and high alkaline environment are beneficial for the agglomeration of COCI and formation of Na-rich layer around COCI, hindering the diffusion rate and subsequently release process of the reserved BTA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The thermal treatment and chemical reduction was applied to synthesized Ni 2 P@CdS-Ni. • The Ni doping in the lattice of CdS leads to a doping level which decrease the work function. • The Ni cations doping and Ni 2 P loading promotes the separation of photoinduced charge carriers. Ni-doped cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanospheres with nickel phosphide (Ni 2 P) loading (Ni 2 P@CdS-Ni) were successfully prepared via the two-step thermal treatment growth and chemical reduction method in this work. Firstly, the thermal treatment method was applied to introduce the Ni2+ into the lattice of CdS and induce the Ni-precursor loaded on surface of the CdS intimately. Then, the Ni-precursor was reduced into Ni(OH) 2 by using the chemical reduction process. Furthermore, the Ni 2 P were loaded on the CdS via the second thermal phosphorization reaction. The loaded Ni 2 P would evidently accelerate the transfer of photo-generated electrons between CdS-Ni and Ni 2 P and meanwhile effectively decrease the charges recombination. Moreover, the results of UV–vis DR spectra and density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed that Ni cations doped in the lattice of CdS lead to a doping level at the bottom of the conduct band, which narrowed the bandgap. The work function indicated that doped Ni2+ helps to enhance the migration and separation of the photo-induced charge. Based on the synergistic effects, 3.7% Ni 2 P@CdS-Ni-3 presented a relatively high hydrogen evolution rate of 176.6 mmol h−1 g−1 under visible light irradiation (λ ≥ 420 nm), which is 63 times of the common CdS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fibers are essential in reinforcing the mechanical properties of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), particularly the tensile and flexural strength. This paper conducts a systematic review on the effect of fibers with different textures and geometry on the properties of UHPC from the following aspects: (1) the bond mechanism of steel fibers with the UHPC matrix; (2) the effect of fiber shape, fiber orientation and hybridization of steel fibers on the microstructure, failure mode, mechanical properties, autogenous shrinkage and durability of UHPC; (3) the reinforcing mechanism of synthetic fibers (polyvinyl alcohol fibers (PVA), polypropylene fiber (PP), polyethylene fibers (PE)), mineral fibers (basalt fibers, wollastonite fibers) and carbon fibers in UHPC and their effect on the performance of UHPC; (4) the use of hybrid fibers and their synergetic effect on the mechanical performance and shrinkage of UHPC. Finally, this paper discussed the further research trends of fibers in UHPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chloride transport in AAMs and influencing factors are reviewed. • Advantages and limitations of current testing methods are addressed. • Chloride resistance of AAMs is compared with that of OPC. • Roles of precursors, activators and admixtures are elucidated. • Types and ratios of precursors, activators and admixtures are suggested. The development of alkali-activated materials (AAMs) to replace ordinary Portland cement (OPC) under chloride-containing environments has been widely investigated by academia and industry for decades. Due to varied mix proportions and parameters applied, studies on the chloride resistance of AAMs are inconsistent and require to be systematically analysed. In this review, the existing knowledge about chloride transport in AAMs is systematically reviewed. Chloride transport mechanisms in AAMs and influencing parameters are discussed. Different testing methods are evaluated and the feasibility of AAMs to replace OPC is demonstrated. Roles of different precursors, activators and admixtures on the phase evolution, pore structure, chloride binding capacity and pore solution are discussed in detail. The types and ratios of precursors, activators and admixtures are recommended. Finally, the limitations of existing research and possible future research directions are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the constrained control of systems evolving on matrix Lie groups with uncertainties is considered. The proposed methodology is composed of a nominal Model Predictive Control (MPC), and a feedback controller. The previous work on the control of systems on manifolds is applied to design the nominal MPC, which generates the nominal trajectory. In the nominal MPC, the state and input constraints on the Lie group are transformed into the constraints on the Euclidean space. While to deal with uncertainties, the feedback control used to track the nominal trajectory is designed directly on the Lie group. The tracking error in the feedback control is proved to be bounded in invariant sets, which are further used to revise the constraints in nominal MPC. We prove that the input‐to‐state stability of the entire system under the proposed control methodology with respect to the disturbances can be achieved. The proposed methodology is applied to the constrained attitude control of rigid bodies with uncertainties. In the application example, the detailed mathematical proof and the comparative numerical simulation are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A bibliometric analysis based on Science Citation Index (SCI) published by Institute of Scientific Information (ISI) was carried out to identify the global research related to lead in drinking water field from 1991 to 2007 and to improve the understanding of research trends in the same period. The results from this analysis indicate that there have been an increasing number of annual publications mainly during two periods: from 1992 to 1997 and from 2004 to 2007. United States produced 37% of all pertinent articles followed by India with 8.0% and Canada with 4.8%. Science of the Total Environment published the most articles followed by Journal American Water Works Association and Toxicology. Summary of the most frequently used keywords are also provided. “Cadmium” was the most popular author keyword in the 17years. Furthermore based on bibliometric results four research aspects were summarized in this paper and the historical research review was also presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, the tensile strengths of silty clays from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau with different initial water contents (3.5–21.0%) at various temperatures (−12.0–0.0 °C) are investigated using an indirect method (Brazilian test). Experimental results show that the tensile strength of silty clay is first increase and then decreased with the increasing initial water content at the temperature of 0 °C, while that monotonically increases with the increasing initial water content at the temperature below 0 °C. The tensile strength of silty clay slightly increases with the decreasing temperature for a given initial water content below 10.9%, otherwise it largely increases with the decreasing temperature. The relationship of the tensile strength of silty clay with the initial water content and temperature is established. This paper also presents a qualitative analysis of mechanisms by which the tensile strength of silty clay varies with the temperature and initial water content. The findings of this study are expected to provide a better approach toward understanding the mechanism of tensile crack-related failures in cold regions, thereby being help for the prevention of tension-related problems. • The tensile strengths of silty clays with different water contents at various temperatures are studied. • The mechanism that the tensile strength varies with water content and temperature is analyzed. • The study can provide a better way to understand tension-related failure in cold regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chloride resistance was evaluated by natural chloride diffusion test. • W/b and slag content significantly impacted chloride transport. • Sand-aggregate ratio decided workability instead of D f. • D f was related to the threshold pore diameter and pores > 5 nm. The widespread application of alkali-activated fly ash/slag (AAFS) concrete requires the satisfaction of a series of performance criteria both from its early age properties (e.g. workability, strength) and long-term stability. In this study, long-term (till 180 days) natural chloride diffusion tests were conducted to evaluate the chloride diffusion in AAFS concretes prepared with different slag content, water/binder (w/b) ratio, alkali content, and sand-aggregate ratio. The results revealed that AAFS concretes obtained in this study were generally regarded as flow/high flow concretes (slump > 100 mm) with compressive strength > 50 MPa at 28 day. The free chloride diffusion coefficient (D f) of AAFS concretes was between 0.4 and 1.8 × 10-12 m2/s. The slag content and w/b were found as dominant parameters affecting the long-term chloride transport in AAFS concretes, while the sand-aggregate ratio presented a limited effect. The formation of more C-A-S-H gels (by increasing slag content ≥ 50%), and lower w/b (≤0.45) at Na 2 O content of ∼ 5% was preferred for AAFS concretes with good workability, strength and durability. MIP results indicated that capillary pores in AAFS reached percolation and became disconnected after 180 days. The long-term chloride diffusivity of AAFS concretes was closely related to the threshold pore diameter and volume of pores > 5 nm. The more larger pores, the higher chloride diffusion coefficient was. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are regarded as an environmentally friendly alternative to ordinary Portland cement. AAMs reinforced with carbon fibers enable the piezoresistivity of materials that can sense its own strain, resistivity and damage. However, the high cost of carbon fiber limits the wide application in construction. In this study, a novel type of conductive aggregates is prepared by using porous ceramsites impregnated with modified agar and carbon black. Conductive alkali-activated fly ash/slag (AAFS) is prepared using carbon fibers and conductive ceramsites. Orthogonal experiment is applied to assess the effect of different parameters on the piezoresistivity and early age properties of AAFS mortars. The results reveal that with the combination of carbon fibers and conductive ceramsite, the electrical resistivity and piezoresistivity of AAFS are significantly improved. The good binding of ceramsites with AAFS matrix and carbon fibers ensured a high piezoresistivity of AAFS samples. A synergistic effect exists between the carbon fibers and ceramsites in view of the piezoresistivity. However, the workability and mechanical strength reduced with the addition of conductive ceramsites. AAFS mortar with 0.3% carbon fiber content, 25%–30% ceramsite content and 70% slag content is proposed as the optimal mixture in view of its mechanical properties and piezoresistivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of copolymers on the material properties of cement-based materials is closely related to their adsorption and distribution in cement matrix. In this study, the adsorption of organic core-shell corrosion inhibitors based on poly(ethylene oxide)-b-polystyrene (PEO-b-PS) micelles on cement particles and their influence on the early age hydration and workability of cement paste were investigated. The results showed that the micelles rapidly adsorbed on cement particles surface within 40 s. At mesoscale, the micelles distribution was uniform in cement matrix; at microscale they were preferentially adsorbed on positively charged aluminates phases. Due to the efficient adsorption, the particle dissolution and precipitation of hydration products were impeded, leading to the slightly retarded early hydration of C 3 A; the workability of cement paste was improved, which was attributed to the better dispersion of cement particles associated with the altered surface potential of cement particles and steric hindrance effect provided by the micelles. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Peracetic acid and peroxymonosulfate were two peroxides that can be activated by graphite via electron transfer mechanism. • Adjacent transferring and electron shuttling were two different electron transfer routes. • Peracetic acid and peroxymonosulfate were reactive to hydroxyl groups and defective structure, respectively. • Oxidation efficiency of electron transfer pathway has high resilience under complicated water matrices. Electron transfer pathway (ETP) driven by carbon-catalytic peroxides has become appealing strategy for microcontaminants (MCs) removal, whereas the nature of ETP occurring in different peroxides system is ambiguous. This work developed a controllable model for peroxides activation by using graphite (GP) that is characterized as simple configuration and excellent electronic conductivity. Peracetic acid (PAA) and peroxymonosulfate (PMS) could be readily activated by GP with 72.2% and 93.7% removal efficiency of sulfamethoxazole, respectively, but peroxydisulfate (PDS) and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) showed low reactivity to GP activation. For PAA/GP system, the adjacent transferring type of ETP was the primary oxidation mechanism with formation of metastable surface complexes to extract electrons from MCs; while the electron shuttling was the dominate ETP route in PMS/GP system via conductive GP acting as a bridge, promoting direct electron transport from organics to PMS and accounting for 49% oxidation efficiency at pH 7.0. Hydroxyl groups of GP were proposed to be decisive sites to form PAA-GP* complexes, while sp2-hybridized carbon functioned as the electron shuttler in PMS oxidation. Importantly, ETP process would not be affected by the coexistence of multiple anions and natural organic matter to remove mixed MCs in actual water. Our work dedicates to exploring selection of various peroxides in ETP regimes and presenting the superiority of ETP strategy to treat complicated aquatic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2019, novel coronavirus pneumonia has been rampant around the world, and when outbreaks occur, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) events are often affected to varying degrees. In addition, in the context of the epidemic, consumers have increasingly taken the participation of MICE in charitable activities as a measure of their social responsibility and judged MICE events as good or bad accordingly. Therefore, the impact of deep learning-based good cause marketing and the Internet on MICE events in the context of the epidemic has attracted much attention. Based on the CiteSpace analysis, this study systematically reviewed the impact system of cause-related marketing on exhibition activities and fitted the neural network model with a single-factor inter-group experiment. The results show that when the complete data set is divided into 70% training set and 30% test set, the model with the training function of Train lm and seven hidden layers performs best in all models. This shows that in the process of charity marketing, the fit between consumers and charity activities determines the attitude and willingness of consumers to participate in charity marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, short-form social media videos have emerged as an important source of health-related advice. In this study, we investigate whether experts or ordinary users in such videos are more effective in debunking the common misperception that talking about suicide should be avoided. We also explore a new trend on TikTok and other platforms, in which users attempt to back up their arguments by displaying scientific articles in the background of their videos. To test the effect of source type (expert vs. ordinary user) and scientific references (present or absent), we conducted a 2 × 2 between-subject plus control group experiment (n = 956). In each condition, participants were shown a TikTok video that was approximately 30 seconds long. Our findings show that in all four treatment groups, participants reduced their misperceptions on the topic. The expert was rated as being more authoritative on the topic compared to the ordinary user. However, the expert was also rated as being less credible compared to the ordinary user. The inclusion of a scientific reference did not make a difference. Thus, both experts and ordinary users may be similarly persuasive in a short-form video environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is threatening human health due to its resistance to multiple antibiotics. Excessive copper (Cu) ions target the lipoylated proteins of tricarboxylic acid cycle of cancer cells, inducing proteotoxic stress and their cuproptosis death. Whether cuproptosis plays a part in killing MRSA by low‐dose supplement of Cu ions remains to be explored. Herein, Cu‐doped hydroxyapatite nanorods (PC) are prepared on polyetheretherketone (PEEK) to resist infection and improve PEEK performance in tissue integration with the assistance of near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, and the mechanism against MRSA is elucidated. Mild photothermal stimulation increases bacterial membrane permeability, accelerating Cu ions' intake and consequently inducing cuproptosis‐like death of MRSA. It is confirmed by aggregation of dihydrolipoamide S‐acetyltrans‐ferase (DLAT), deactivation of glutathione peroxides 4 (GPX4), and destabilization of Fe─S cluster proteins ferredoxin (FDX1) and lipoyl synthase (LIAS). Fortunately, fibroblast behaviors are upregulated on NIR‐irradiated PC. In vivo, PC with NIR irradiation exhibits outstanding MRSA elimination, reduced inflammation response, and improved biointegration. Overall, it is demonstrated that bacterial cuproptosis‐like death can be induced by Cu ions at a non‐cytotoxic dose when cooperated with mild heat stimulus, and this photothermal strategy of PC has greatly promising application in improving PEEK performance in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to further systematically study the electrochemical properties of Al2O3-based proton conductors, Al2-xMgxO3-a was successfully prepared by the traditional high-temperature solid-state method at 1 873 K for 10 h. XRD and SEM test results show that Al2-XMgxO3-5 electrolytes have been successfully prepared. The grain size of all electrolytes is very uniform, and the relative density is higher than 97%. In a hydrogen-rich atmosphere of 1 173-1 373 K, the conducively and minimum conducively activation energy of Al2-xMgxO3-a are 3.1 X 10-5-7.5 X 10-2 S/cm and 0.49 eV, respectively. In the hydrogen rich environment of 1 1731 323 K, the H/D isotope effect test results show that protons participate in the conduction process as the main careers. At the same time, the electromotive force test results show that the proton transfer number as higher than 97% in this temperature range. When the temperature !s higher than 1 323 K, the electron will become the main conducive career to participate in the conducive process in the oxygen-rich atmosphere. In add-on,, the chemical diffusion coefficient of Al2-xMgxO3-a as 3.4 X 10-7-9.7 X 10-6 cm²/s in the range of 1 173-1 373 K. Therefore, Al2-xMgxO3-a electrolyte can be used as a substitute for hydrogen sensor electrolyte in high-temperature electrochemical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graph: Figure 4XRD patterns of ceramics sintered at 1450 °C with increasing 3YSZ fraction. Graph: Figure 1XRD patterns of ceramics sintered at 1500 °C with increasing 3YSZ fraction. Graph: Figure 6XRD patterns of ceramics sintered at 1400 °C with increasing 3YSZ. fraction X = wt%3YSZ. [Extracted from the article]

This paper aims at preparing a smart wearable purple ceramic that meet the color requirements of purple smart wear in the market after using zirconate neodymium as a chromogenic agent. However, the mechanical performance of zirconate neodymium purple ceramic is not satisfactory, especially it has an extremely low fracture toughness. To solve this, a 3 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (3YSZ) is added to zirconate neodymium in the preparation of multiphase ceramics to improve its mechanical properties. In this experiment, a series of ceramic samples with addition of increasing amount of 3YSZ 0, 20, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80% were prepared in the 1400–1500 °C sintering temperature range. It was found that at the same temperature, the mechanical properties of the ceramic samples gradually improved with the increase in the 3YSZ content. Moreover, with the same content, the mechanical properties of the ceramic samples gradually improved with the decrease in temperature. The results show that when 3YSZ has a mass fraction of 80% and is sintered at 1400 °C, the fracture toughness of the prepared ceramic samples reaches 8.15 MPa‧m1/2, which is nearly two times higher than that of the monolithic neodymium zirconate 2.57 MPa‧m1/2. The Vickers hardness of the prepared ceramic samples reached 12.93 GPa, which is nearly 88% higher than the undoped neodymium zirconate. This indicates that the samples can be applied in smart wearables, such as mobile phone backplane, with a certain practical significance for engineering toughening of zirconate ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six novel AECs of [Sr(o-CPA)2(H2O)4]·(o-CPA) 1, [Ba(o-CPA)2(H2O)]·H2O 2, [Sr(m-CPA)2(H2O)4]·(m-CPA) 3, [Ba(m-CPA)2(H2O)4]2·2(m-CPA)·H2O 4, [Sr(p-CPA)2(H2O)] 5 and [Ba(p-CPA)2(H2O)] 6 (o-CPA = 2-chlorophenoxyacetic acid, m-CPA = 3-chlorophenoxyacetic acid and p-CPA = 4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid) were synthesized by a facile microwave-assistant reaction. The solid-state structures were well established by X-ray crystallography and routine analyses of Fourier transform infrared, elemental analysis, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and thermogravimetric analysis. The structure data reveal that complexes of 1, 3 and 4 are one-dimensional chains with a zigzag arrangement, while 2, 5 and 6 are (4, 4) rhomboid two-dimensional grid structures. It is noticed that the carboxyl group in these complexes displays multiple coordination modes of μ2-η1:η1 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6), μ3-η1:η2 (1, 2, 3 and 4), μ2-η1:η2 (2), μ3-η2:η2 (5 and 6). Interestingly, the oxygen atoms of flexible –OCH2– in phenoxy groups take part in coordination behavior with metal centers through the rotation of the C–O and C–C bonds in complexes 2, 5 and 6, while only carboxyl group coordination can be found in complexes 1, 3 and 4. FESEM images indicate that the surface appearances of complexes are totally different from ligands after coordination. All ligands and complexes were evaluated for activity as plant-growth inhibitors against Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) and barnyard grass. Compared with ligands, complexes 1, 3 and 4 exhibited better response index (RI) values of Shoot elongation against barnyard grass. Moreover, complexes 1, 3 and 4 demonstrated a higher inhibitory activity than 2, 5 and 6. It is significant to develop a new kind of environmentally-friendly herbicide based on these kinds of complexes for their low toxicity and high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to further understand the effect of Y 2 O 3 doping on the electrical conductivity of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ , which was prepared by conventional solid-state reaction. The electrical conductivity of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ was measured by two-terminal AC method in an oxygen-rich atmosphere, hydrogen-rich atmosphere and water vapor-rich atmosphere at the temperature between 973 and 1373 K. The test results show that the conductivity of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ first increases and then decreases with x from 0.08 to 0.20, and its total conductivity and conductivity activation energy are 3.88 × 10−7 to 5.34 × 10−5S/m and 0.76–0.92eV respectively. Combined with the test results of the H / D isotope effect, it is found that protons are the main conductive carriers in the three different atmosphere at temperatures range of 973–1173 K. In addition, in the temperatures range of 1273–1373 K, the positive holes are the main conductive carriers in the oxygen rich atmosphere, and the vacancies participates in the conductive process as the main conductive carriers in the water vapor rich atmosphere. The chemical diffusion coefficients of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ is 3.9 × 10−6 to 2.4 × 10−5 cm2 / s in the temperature range of 973–1373 K. According to the test results of electromotive force, the theoretical electromotive force is consistent with the measured electromotive force. The proton transfer number of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ exceeded 97% in hydrogen atmosphere at temperatures from 973 to 1173 K. In sum, these findings of CaHf 1− x Y x O 3−δ can be used as alternative materials for hydrogen sensor electrolytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents a novel method of recycling construction waste while capturing CO 2 through the formation of mineral carbon. The technology uses carbonated recycled concrete fines (CRCF) as the primary raw material to produce sustainable, high-performance alkali bricks with high replacement rates. Firstly, a general assessment of the physical and chemical properties of CRCF was carried out, which revealed the formation of silica gel encapsulating the surface of CRCF during carbonation. Subsequently, alkali bricks were prepared utilizing CRCF. The study investigated the impact of various mix proportions, water-to-cement ratios, and manufacturing process parameters on brick strength. Additionally, an in-depth analysis of reaction products and brick microstructures was carried out. The results showed that the bricks produced from CRCF were stronger than those from RCF, indicating enhanced reactivity after carbonation. Finally, an analysis demonstrated that utilizing RCF from construction waste can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions, thereby mitigating the environmental impact associated with cement production. • Innovative approach integrates construction waste reuse and CO 2 sequestration in alkali-activated slag brick production. • Superior reactivity and microstructure observed in carbonated recycled concrete fines (CRCF). • Identification of optimal conditions for water-to-solid ratios, curing temperature, and forming pressure. • CRCF alkali-activated slag brick exhibits heightened strength and refined pore structure. • Land use, cement consumption, and carbon dioxide emissions are reduced through CRCF utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A multi-energy complementary heating system (MECHS) suitable for cold rural areas was built. • The MECHS was assessed using the entropy-TOPSIS model, with economic factor contributing more than 50%. • Solar-biomass was the optimal heating mode and had a comprehensive score of 0.6202. The establishment of a multi-energy complementary heating system (MECHS) using abundant renewable energy is currently an effective way to solve the rapid growth of heating demands in rural areas. However, coupling schemes for different energy sources have become a critical barrier to the MECHS development. The entropy-TOPSIS method was used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of MECHS, which provided a basis for optimizing system operation strategy. We built a test platform for MECHS based on solar-biomass-electricity energy in Tumxuk, Northwest China. Frist, six working modes were established according to the system operation control strategy. Second, we constructed the evaluation indexes of MECHS considering energy, environment and economy and determined their weights using entropy weight method. Third, the TOPSIS model was used to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the different working modes to identify optimal energy supply schemes. Our case study showed that the MECHS operated stably and met the indoor temperature demands of rural houses in cold regions. To maximize the heating efficiency of the system, it is necessary to reduce the types of energy appropriately. Next, based on entropy-TOPSIS model, the recommended order of energy supply mode for heating systems were solar-biomass energy (0.6202), solar-biomass-electric energy (0.6152), solar-electric energy (0.5895), biomass energy (0.4075), biomass-electric energy (0.3680), and electrical energy (0.3603). We found that the optimal energy supply mode was solar-biomass. Our results indicated that the entropy-TOPSIS model could provide practical recommendations for the design and operation strategies of MECHS in cold rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neural Particle Method (NPM) is a newly proposed Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) based, truly meshfree method for hydrodynamics modeling. In the NPM, PINN is applied to globally approximate field variables, and the high-order Implicit Runge–Kutta (IRK) method is used to treat the time integration. The NPM can easily achieve incompressibility and deal with the free-surface problem. However, the NPM is currently limited to inviscid hydrodynamics problems and is computationally expensive. In this work, we developed a general NPM (gNPM) for viscous hydrodynamics modeling. In the gNPM, a single pressure is output as the predicted pressure field rather than the multiple pressures in the original NPM. Thus, the size of the neural network is greatly reduced, making the gNPM computationally more efficient. Besides, the spatial derivatives in the governing equations are calculated with respect to the current spatial coordinates rather than the predicted space. In this manner, the gNPM is more straightforward to be implemented. Furthermore, by considering the viscous term in the conservation of momentum, the gNPM can be applied for viscous hydrodynamics modeling. The effectiveness and robustness of the gNPM have been demonstrated through several hydrodynamics benchmark cases with different boundary conditions. We highlight that the proposed gNPM is able to cope with highly uneven particle distributions, while the traditional meshfree method can produce severe failure. • A general Neural Particle Method (gNPM) is proposed for hydrodynamics modeling. • The gNPM is computationally more efficient and easier to be implemented than the NPM. • The effectiveness of the gNPM has been demonstrated through benchmark cases. • The gNPM is more robust than the SPH for uneven particle distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • ZIF-8 exhibited high inhibition efficiency for the reinforcement in cement extract. • The inhibition effect was related to the large number of adsorption sites. • Fe-N coordination bond formed between 2-MeIm ligands and the reinforcement. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can be potentially applied as corrosion inhibitors for reinforced concrete due to their supramolecular structure. In this study, zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) was prepared by facile and eco-friendly solvent method. The inhibition effect of the prepared ZIF-8 corrosion inhibitor on the reinforcement in cement extract was investigated by electrochemical measurements (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentio-dynamic polarization (PD)) combined with surface analysis (field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and Raman spectroscopy); the adsorption behavior of ZIF-8 corrosion inhibitor on the steel surface was analyzed by UV–vis spectrophotometer and atomic force microscope (AFM). The results indicated that ZIF-8 corrosion inhibitor with the diameter of about 75 nm was successfully synthesized. In chloride-containing cement extract, ZIF-8 corrosion inhibitor was efficiently adsorbed on the reinforcement surface and mainly reduced the anodic reaction rate by halting the dissolution of the reinforcement, thus significantly increasing the charge transfer resistance and polarization resistance of the reinforcement and exhibiting high inhibition efficiency (>95 %) during the initial 24 h. The pH drop caused by pitting propagation at the local corrosion sites resulted in the decomposition of ZIF-8 and Fe-N coordination bond formed between the released 2-MeIm ligands and reinforcement. As a result, the accumulation of corrosion products was pronounced prohibited, thus corrosion initiation of the reinforcement was significantly delayed and the inhibition efficiency was still maintained at 87.8 % after 168 h with ZIF-8 concentration of 0.04 wt%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cl− adsorption and intercalated ions release processes during LDHs are highly intricate phenomena. In this study, ion exchange performance of LDHs with specific cation interlayers and intercalated anions (CaAl–NO 3 -LDHs, CaAl–NO 2 -LDHs, CaFeAl–NO 3 -LDHs and CaFeAl–NO 2 -LDHs) were extensively investigated. The results indicate that in the presence of low chloride concentration, the intercalated anions are prematurely released due to partial dissolution of LDHs in neutral deionized water and ion exchange with OH− in alkaline simulated concrete pore solution. Therefore, Cl− adsorption of LDHs and release process of intercalated anions in LDHs are not completely synchronized. Compared to partial LDHs dissolution, the accelerating effect of OH− exchange on intercalated anion release in simulated concrete pore solution is more pronounced. Further, higher stability of LDHs in testing solutions is mainly corresponding to higher binding energy between intercalation ions and cation interlayers, thus saturated Cl− adsorption content of NO 3 -LDHs with high binding energy is higher than NO 2 -LDHs with low binding energy, and saturated Cl− adsorption content of CaAl-LDHs with high binding energy is higher than CaFeAl-LDHs with low binding energy in testing solutions. • Introducing Fe into cationic interlayers reduces the stability of the formed LDHs. • LDHs are partially dissolved in deionized water to maintain high alkalinity. • Intercalated anions in LDHs exchange with OH− to form OH-LDHs in SCP solution. • Asynchronous Cl− adsorption and intercalated anions release exist in solutions. • Higher E B prohibits LDHs dissolution and OH− exchange, improving Cl− adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of AgCl film determine performance of Ag/AgCl electrode for chloride detection in concrete pore solution. In this study, the microstructure effect of AgCl film on the durability and sensitivity of Ag/AgCl electrode was investigated by electrochemical methods with SEM. The results indicated generally thick and dense AgCl film resulted in the improved service life and prolonged response time of Ag/AgCl electrode. Further, potential fluctuations were relevant for AgCl film thickness>32.04 µm. Based on the obtained data, the relationship between AgCl film resistance and service life/response time of Ag/AgCl electrode was established, which can accurately evaluate the performance of Ag/AgCl electrode in concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The therapeutic effect of oxygen-concentration-dependent photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be diminished in the hypoxic environment of solid tumours, the effective solution to this problem is utilising hypoxic-activated bioreduction therapy (BRT). In this research, a biocompatible HA-C60/TPENH2 nanogel which can specifically bind to CD44 receptor was developed for highly efficient PDT-BRT synergistic therapy. The nanogel was degradable in acidic microenvironments of tumours and facilitated the release of biological reduction prodrug tirapazamine (TPZ). Importantly, HA-C60/TPENH2 nanogel produced reactive oxygen species and consumed oxygen content in the cell to activate TPZ, leading to higher cytotoxicity than the free TPZ did. The intracellular observation of nanogel indicated that the HA-C60/TPENH2 nanogel was self-fluorescence for cell imaging. This study applied PDT-BRT to design smart HA-based nanogel with targeted delivery, pH response, and AIEgen feature for efficient cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The smart release of healing agents is a key factor determining the inhibition efficiency of microcapsules-based corrosion inhibitors for reinforced concrete. In this study, the release behavior of benzotriazole (BTA) in microcapsule-based inhibitors was investigated in mortar sample to clarify the influence of different hydration products on the release process. The results indicated that under high pH environment (pH > 12.4), only about 5% reserved BTA was released from the mortar sample. pH drop resulted in the increased release of BTA from mortar sample. Most BTA in the microcapsule-based inhibitors was released from mortar sample in low pH environment, which was closely related to morphology/composition alterations of hydration products caused by pH drop of the environment. The smart release of BTA dramatically delayed corrosion initiation of reinforced mortar and halted corrosion product accumulation on the steel surface. Therefore, the corrosion resistance of the reinforced mortar was improved after corrosion initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel method for reusing construction waste and simultaneously sequestering CO 2 in the form of mineral carbon is presented in this study. The method involves the production of construction bricks using waste concrete fines treated with carbonation. Initially, waste concrete is crushed and ground into recycled concrete fines (RCF), which are then subjected to a carbonation process to obtain carbonated recycled concrete fines (CRCF). Comprehensive characterization using XRD, TGA, FTIR, and zeta potential measurements reveals that CRCF exhibits a microstructure featuring silica-coated calcium carbonate particles on its surface, imparting significant reactivity to CRCF. In this investigation, RCF and CRCF are separately mixed with Ca(OH) 2 , molded, and compressed into bricks, with performance testing conducted under various material ratios and manufacturing conditions. The results indicate that bricks made with CRCF exhibit mechanical properties exceeding those of RCF-based bricks by more than two-fold. This improvement can be attributed to the refined pore structure observed in CRCF bricks. The highly reactive silica gel present on the surface of CRCF reacts with Ca(OH) 2 to form C-S-H, providing a rationale for the superior strength displayed by CRCF bricks. • Novel method combines construction waste reuse with CO 2 sequestration in brick production. • Carbonated recycled concrete fines (CRCF) exhibit superior reactivity and microstructure. • CRCF bricks surpass RCF-based bricks by over two-fold in mechanical properties. • Optimal conditions for water-solid ratios, curing temperature, and forming pressure identified. • CRCF-bricks demonstrate higher strength and refined pore structure, offering sustainable construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dissolution of silicate minerals on the seafloor releases an important amount of dissolved silicon (dSi), which is necessary for maintaining high diatom production in Coastal and Continental Margin Zones (CCMZs). However, the dissolution of silicate minerals along the continental shelves is variable, which hinders our understanding of the marine Si cycle on both a regional and global scale. To understand the discrepancy of silicon (Si) released in different sediment matrices and its potential controlling factors, we investigated surface sediments of typical CCMZs of the Chinese marginal Seas using a continuous alkaline extraction technique, grain size and chemical (carbon and total nitrogen) analysis as well as a qualitative measurement of clay mineral composition by X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the amount of Si and aluminum (Al) leached from muddy sediments were 2 times greater than those released from sandy sediments. High dissolution rates (> 0.20 mg-SiO 2 g−1 min−1) of silicate minerals are caused by a large sediment-specific surface area. Further, our data showed that biogenic silica (bSi) with high Al content (Si:Al < 40) has low reactivity and that the source of Al incorporated in bSi is silicate minerals undergoing dissolution. We show that although the dissolution of silicate minerals is less active than that of bSi, it still potentially releases more bio-available Si and Al to seawater due to its dominant presence on the seafloor (70.3% − 99.0%wt). This study highlights silicate minerals as an important potential marine Si source and emphasizes the need for a better understanding of the roles of silicate minerals in the Si cycle of marginal seas in future studies. [Display omitted] • Muddy sediments potentially release two times more Si and Al than sandy sediments. • Elevated values of alkaline extracted Si and Al are due to a large sediment-specific surface area. • Reactivity of biogenic silica in sediments is reduced because of the incorporated Al that originates from silicate minerals. • Si:Al ratios of the linearly dissolving lithogenic Si phases are correlated with the major types of clays in sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate measurement of chloride content in concrete is of great importance, because chloride-initiated corrosion of the reinforcement significantly influences the durability of reinforced concrete. This paper summarizes the research status of Ag/AgCl ion-selective electrode (ISE) used for non-destructive chloride detection in concrete. In general, four main topics are reviewed, including preparation of Ag/AgCl-ISE, main factors influencing the potential of Ag/AgCl-ISE, detection limit/potential response of Ag/AgCl-ISE, and novel composites/electrochemical methods based on Ag/AgCl-ISE for chloride detection in concrete. Further, the existing problems and research strategies are also discussed in detail in this present review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The external anode mortar based on lightweight functional aggregates was prepared. • LFA maintained high catalytic activity of the primary anode during ICCP treatment. • Acidification damage in vicinity of primary anode and ITZ was mitigated by LFA. The acidification damage in the external anode mortar caused by the anodic reactions significantly influences the efficiency of impressed current cathodic protection for reinforced concrete. In this study, novel lightweight functional aggregates (LFA) were proposed to mitigate the acidification damage in the external anode mortar. The results indicated that LFA maintained the high catalytic activity of the primary anode; furthermore, the acidification damage in the secondary mortar was halted both in the vicinity of the primary anode and at aggregate/mortar matrix interface. The prepared LFA can be potentially applied for the preparation of the external anode mortar for ICCP treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The passive film presented bilayer structure with FeO-rich inner layer and FeOOH-rich outer layer in AAFA pore solution. • The firmly adsorbed layer with zeolite-like structure (200 nm) formed on the steel surface in AAFA pore solution. • The corrosion resistance of the passive reinforcement was significant higher in AAFA pore solution. Due to different ion types and concentration in pore solution, the passive film on the steel surface possesses different characteristics in alkali-activated fly ash (AAFA). In this study, the passive film formed in simulated AAFA pore solution was investigated by surface analysis and electrochemical measurements. The passive film possessed bilayer structure with FeOOH-rich outer layer and FeO-rich inner layer in simulated AAFA pore solution. Further, a firmly adsorbed zeolite-like layer (200 nm) formed on the steel surface. The formation of more protective passive film and adsorbed layer resulted in higher corrosion resistance of the reinforcement in simulated AAFS pore solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Products with different composition in alkali-activated flay ash were synthesized. • Chlorides were physically adsorbed on the surface of synthetic reaction products. • The chloride adsorption capacity of zeolites was lower than N-A-S-H gel. • The chloride adsorption capacity was related to the surface properties of products. Compared to ordinary Portland cement, reaction products in alkali-activated fly ash (AAF) exhibit different characteristics, dramatically influencing their chloride adsorption ability. This paper extensively characterized the chloride adsorption behavior of individual reaction products in AAF. First individual reaction products, including NASH gels, P zeolite and analcite, were synthesized and their composition, morphology and structure were extensively evaluated. The chloride adsorption ability of the above synthetic reaction products was then investigated. The synthetic reaction products mainly physically adsorbed chlorides on their surface. When Si/Al ratio of NASH gel increased, its chloride adsorption ability was enhanced, which was mainly related to the positive shift of zeta potential. The synthetic P zeolite and analcite exhibited lower zeta potential and specific surface area, thus their chloride adsorption ability was lower than synthetic NASH gels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Coupling effect of mechanical load and environment load had influence on the durability performance of concrete structure. • Water and chloride penetration into concrete decreased firstly and then increased with the increase of applied load. • Applied load had an obvious influence on the frost resistance of concrete. • Coupling effect had more obvious influence on high water/ratio concrete. Abstract In cold coastal area, the destruction mechanism of reinforced concrete structures is mainly governed by a combination of factors such as self-loading, freeze–thaw and chloride erosion. In this study, ordinary cube concretes (C30 and C50, while w/c = 0.53 and 0.35 respectively) underwent a coupling effect of pressure load with stress ratio of 0, 0.3 and 0.5 and freeze–thaw cycles, following by capillary water absorption test and chloride penetration test. Concrete samples with 0.3 f c showed the best water and chloride penetration resistance under the coupling effect, followed by samples with 0.5 f c and 0 f c , which is consistent with the conclusion that under load only. Water and chloride ions penetration increased sharply when freeze–thaw cycles was over 100 times, which is different with samples without load. Outside part of concrete showed higher permeability and chloride content than inside part. MIP results confirmed that stress played an important role in the water absorption and chloride penetration of concrete under the coupling effect. These results provide important new insights into the permeability of concrete under a coupling effect. The applied load performed a more important role on the service life prediction of concrete structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Universal control of quantum systems is a major goal to be achieved for quantum information processing, which demands thorough understanding of fundamental quantum mechanics and promises applications of quantum technologies. So far, most studies concentrate on ideally isolated quantum systems governed by unitary evolutions, while practical quantum systems are open and described by quantum channels due to their inevitable coupling to environment. Here, we experimentally simulate arbitrary quantum channels for an open quantum system, i.e. a single photonic qubit in a superconducting quantum circuit. The arbitrary channel simulation is achieved with minimum resource of only one ancilla qubit and measurement-based adaptive control. By repetitively implementing the quantum channel simulation, we realize an arbitrary Liouvillian for a continuous evolution of an open quantum system for the first time. Our experiment provides not only a testbed for understanding quantum noise and decoherence, but also a powerful tool for full control of practical open quantum systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]