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Purpose: This study aims to improve the corrosion resistance of TA2-welded joints by superhydrophobic surface modification using micro-arc oxidation technology and low surface energy substance modification. Design/methodology/approach: The microstructure and chemical state of the superhydrophobic film layer were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, three-dimensional morphology, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared absorption spectroscopy. The influence of the superhydrophobic film layer on the corrosion resistance of TA2-welded joints was investigated using classical electrochemical testing methods. Findings: The characterization results showed that the super hydrophobic TiO2 ceramic membrane was successfully constructed on the surface of the TA2-welded joint, and the construction of the super hydrophobic film greatly improved the corrosion resistance of the TA2-welded joint. Originality/value: The superhydrophobic TiO2 ceramic membrane has excellent corrosion resistance. The micro nanostructure in the superhydrophobic film can intercept air to form an air layer to prevent the corrosion medium from contacting the surface, thus, improving the corrosion resistance of the sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In seawater pipeline, the welding joint is a non-uniform structure composed of welding seam, base metal and heat affected zone. It has inhomogeneity in chemical composition, organizational structure, residual stress, etc. As local defects and high turbulence accelerate corrosion, the welding joint is often the weakest link in pipeline corrosion. Herein, the electrochemical corrosion behavior of B10 alloy welded joint in flowing seawater is studied from macroscopic and submicroscopic viewpoints using AC impedance, linear polarization, array electrode and morphological characterization. The results reveal that the corrosion rate of weld metal (WM), base metal (BM) and heat-affected zone (HAZ) decreased with the increase of time. Combined with SEM and EDS analysis, it can be seen that the increase in time led to the decomposition and accumulation of corrosion products, which gradually enhanced the corrosion resistance of welded joints. At the submicroscopic scale, WM acts as a cathode to mitigate corrosion during the later stages of high flow rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The mass transfer processes and localized corrosion mechanisms of different pipeline defects (pitting depression and welded joint with weld reinforcement) were investigated under flow accelerated corrosion. • The swirling vortex and vertical jet impact induced by reflux interference can promote the process of localized corrosion. • The galvanic corrosion intensity of welded joints with weld reinforcement and pitting depression was evaluated. • The FGHAZ in the HAZ at the trailing edge of the weld endures the impact of the impinging jet and becomes the preferred region for corrosion failure. The pipeline defects of flow accelerated corrosion (FAC) on the corrosion behaviors and localized corrosion mechanisms on different locations of the depressions and the welded joint with weld reinforcements were investigated using wire beam electrode (WBE) techniques and fluid dynamics simulations. The results revealed that the swirling vortex inside the depression and the local jet impact by the fluid separation in the weld reinforcement can accelerate the localized corrosion. Also, the depressed upper and trailing edge regions and the weld toes on both sides of the weld reinforcement experience considerable pressure fluctuations, enhancing interfacial mass transfer processes and inducing cavitation for severe localized corrosion failure. Furthermore, the galvanic corrosion strength factor (g) indicated an enhanced susceptibility of localized corrosion in depression and welded joints with weld reinforcement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The corrosion behaviour of titanium alloy surface when fluid with different flow rates flows through welded joints with different residual heights was explored. Design/methodology/approach: The experiment uses a combination of array electrodes and simulation. Findings: It is found that when the weld reinforcement exists, the corrosion tendency of both ends of the weld metal is greater than that of other parts of the welded joint due to the influence of high turbulence kinetic energy and shear stress. The presence of weld reinforcement heights makes the fluid behind it fluctuate greatly. The passivation films of both the base metal (BM) at the rear and the heat-affected zone (HAZ) are more prone to corrosion than those of the front BM and HAZ, and the passivation film is rougher. Originality/value: The combination of test and simulation was used to explore the influence of electrochemical and hydrodynamic factors on the corrosion behaviour of titanium alloy-welded joints when welding residual height existed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is used worldwide. It has been associated with a variety of toxicities in rodents. In this study, male mice were orally administered 2,4-D at 50, 100 or 200 mg/kg/day to investigate testicular toxicity and the possible mechanisms of action. Exposure to 2,4-D at high concentrations (100 and 200 mg/kg/day) for 14 consecutive days caused spermatogenic disruption and seminiferous epithelial destruction. Furthermore, 2,4-D administration (100 and 200 mg/kg/day) increased the formation of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde and decreased activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase in the testis. Moreover, 2,4-D exposure up-regulated the expression of p53 and Bax protein and down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 protein in the testis. These results demonstrate that oxidative stress and apoptosis may be involved in testicular toxicity induced by high concentrations of 2,4-D in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel vapor phase inhibitor, 2-(1-methyl-nonyl)-quinoline, was designed to cope with top-of-line corrosion (TLC) in wet gas pipelines and characterized via electrochemical measurements, scanning vibrating electrode technique (SEVT), surface analysis techniques, and molecular dynamics methods. 2-(1-methyl-nonyl)-quinoline showed parallel adsorption and was predominantly a cathodic-type inhibitor. The inhibition efficiency increased with temperature (30–50°C) and pH (4.15–5.76), and reached 97.25% at a concentration of 0.0282 mol/L. The SEVT showed that the average current density of the X80 steel specimen without inhibitor (anode region, 6.58087 µA/cm2) was about 2.5 times that of the other with inhibitor (cathode region, −2.61974 µA/cm2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organic waste mainly refers to the solid waste that is generated by residents' daily life. If the organic waste is converted into energy through anaerobic digestion, it will reduce the adverse impact on the environment and contribute to reduction in consumption of fossil fuel. Analysis of the space and time differences of various kinds of microbial community in fermentation process, plays a very important role for controlling the fermentation process effectively, understanding the fermentation stage, optimization of fermentation conditions and improving the efficiency of biogas production. This paper investigated the temporal and spatial distribution of microbial community during the semi-dry fermentation of organic waste, and studied the relationship of acid production, methane production and ammonia production using most probable number (MPN). The experiment used anaerobic fermentation under one-time charging medium temperature (37°C), and designed six sampling positions. The inoculum was biogas slurry fermented with pig manure, and the concentration was 30%, pH value was adjusted to 7.0 before anaerobic fermentation. The results showed that, in the early stage of organic waste anaerobic fermentation, large amounts of air existed in the reactor, and there was less number of anaerobic bacteria. With the formation of the anaerobic environment and rich nutrients, the number of anaerobic bacteria began to rise. The anaerobic acidification bacteria and anaerobic ammonification bacteria proliferated earliest, and the acidification bacteria was prior to reach maximum than ammonification bacteria and occupied the dominant position. The methane bacteria didn't proliferate at the start-up phase, they enter the fast growth stage after 15 days, and the peak value was 3.24×109 mL-1 on the 25th day. In the gas peak decline period, the number of anaerobic ammonification bacteria and anaerobic acidification bacteria began to decline, however, the methane bacteria number kept on the order of magnitude in the whole period. The anaerobic cellulose-decomposing bacteria grew slowly, and the number was only 106 mL-1 on the 45th day. In the space, numbers of anaerobic acid bacteria and methane bacteria in the central part were more than those at the edge, and the numbers in the bottom were more than on the top; the most number of anaerobic ammoniation bacteria grew in middle edge and center position; at the same height, the numbers of edge position were more than the center position basically. The anaerobic cellulose-decomposing bacteria began to proliferate in the bottom. The number of the anaerobic bacteria on the top was lower than other places, due to the residual air on the top that was not conducive to the growth of anaerobic bacteria. In the reactor design, intermediate feed may be given priority to, edges feed was complementary, which was conducive to make full use of fermentation materials, and to improve the efficiency of the reactor. The dynamic model of anaerobic acidification bacteria and methanogens distribution differences was constructed preliminarily, and the correlation coefficients of fitting model were 0.824 and 0.939, respectively. The established model could predict effectively, and could provide the appropriate reference value of semi-dry anaerobic fermentation technology. The applicability of the model still requires further test to verify, therefore, the reactor enlarged gradually can be used for further study and parameters correction. This paper has theoretical significance for the technological processes of biogas production from organic waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under weakly alkaline conditions, polydopamine (PDA) has strong adhesion to the surface of metal materials and chelate adsorption to nanoparticles. According to this characteristic, polydopamine (PDA) was formed by spontaneous polymerization of dopamine (DA), and then modified with octadecylamine (ODA) and 1H,1H,2H, 2H-perfluoro-decyl mercaptan (PFDT) to form a dense and uniform superhydrophobic film on the surface of zinc material. SEM, XPS, FTIR, SVET, electrochemical measurement (polarization curve and impedance spectroscopy) and other methods were used to characterize the surface morphology and chemical structures of samples before and after modification. The water contact angle (WCA) were further used to analyze the wettability of the superhydrophobic film. The experimental results show that the zinc surface with superhydrophobic PDA film exhibits higher corrosion resistance and lower corrosion current density than control groups, and the modification effect of PFDT is better. Moreover, the corrosion resistance of pure zinc can be significantly improved by the modification treatment, which is the effect of "micro nano structure air valley" formed by the superhydrophobic film layer and the enhancement of adhesion. • A simple method was used to construct a superhydrophobic polydopamine film with stronger binding force on the surface of Zn. • Low surface energy molecules increase the hydrophobicity of the PDA film. • The PDA base film modified with low surface energy significantly improves the corrosion resistance of Zn. • The corrosion resistance mechanism of different PDA-based films on the zinc surface is fully explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian aging is a process of decline in its reserve leading to ovary dysfunction and even reduced health quality in offspring. However, aging-related molecular pathways in the ovary remain obscure. Lysine succinylation (Ksuc), a newly post-translational modification (PTM), has been found to be broadly conserved in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, and associated with multiple pathophysiological processes. There are no relevant reports revealing a link between the molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and Ksuc. Methods: The level of Ksuc in ovaries of aged and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mice were detected by immunoblotting and immunohistochemical. To further explore the role of Ksuc in ovarian aging, using in vitro mouse ovary tissue culture and an in vivo mouse model with changed Ksuc level. Results: Increased Ksuc in ovaries of aged and POI mice and distribution of Ksuc in various types of mice ovarian cells and the high level of Ksuc in granulosa cells (GCs) were revealed. Histological assessments and hormone levels analyses showed that the high Ksuc level down-regulated the ovarian index and the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estrogen levels, and increased follicular atresia. Moreover, in the high Ksuc groups, the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) intensities and the expression of Cleaved-caspase-3 increased and the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) decreased together with positively-expressed P21, an aging-related marker. These results suggest that ovarian aging is likely associated with alteration in Ksuc. Conclusion: The present study has identified Ksuc in mouse ovary and found that high Ksuc level most likely contributes to ovarian aging which is expected further investigation to provide new information for delaying physiological ovarian aging and treating pathological ovarian aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Previous studies in rats have shown that microinjections of cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide into the nucleus accumbens (NAc; the area of the brain that mediates drug reward and reinforcement) attenuate the locomotor effects of psychostimulants. CART peptide has also been shown to induce decreased intracellular concentrations of calcium (Ca2+) in primary cultures of hippocampus neurons. The purpose of this study was to characterize the interaction of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinases (CaMKIIα) with dopamine D3 (D3) receptors (R) in primary cultures of accumbal neurons. This interaction is involved in inhibitory modulation of CART peptides. In vitro, CART (55–102) peptide (0.1, 0.5 or 1μM) was found to dose-dependently inhibit K+ depolarization-elicited Ca2+ influx and CaMKIIα phosphorylation in accumbal neurons. Moreover, CART peptides were also found to block cocaine (1μM)-induced Ca2+ influx, CaMKIIα phosphorylation, CaMKIIα–D3R interaction, and CREB phosphorylation. In vivo, repeated microinjections of CART (55–102) peptide (2μg/1μl/side) into the NAc over a 5-day period had no effect on behavioral activity but blocked cocaine-induced locomotor activity. These results indicate that D3R function in accumbal neurons is a target of CART (55–102) peptide and suggest that CART peptide by dephosphorylating limbic D3Rs may have potential as a treatment for cocaine abuse. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The effect of pyrolysis process with sewage sludge on the chromium behavior of chromite ore processing residue (COPR) was examined in this study. The behavior of chromium was characterized in term of chromium oxidation test, pH-static leaching tests, column leaching test and sequential extraction test. As a sequence of pyrolysis process, the Cr(VI) in COPR was effectively reduced from 5057mgkg−1 for untreated COPR to 8.6mgkg−1 for treated COPR at temperature over 600°C, which is far below the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection regulatory limit of 240mgkg−1. As a result, the amount of exchangeable and carbonate-bound Cr fractions, the most mobile for the environment, were largely reduced. At the same time, the amount of the other three Cr fractions which are much less mobile become augmented. pH static test showed that the chromium in the treated COPR at pyrolysis temperature above 400°C was quite stable at pH>7. Column study also indicated that only negligible amount of chromium of the treated COPR at above 600°C can be released by the acid rain. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper describes a laboratory study that examined the effect of pyrolysis treatment on the behavior of Hg, Cr, Zn, Pb, Cu and Cd in a stream sediment. The influences of pyrolysis on the evaporation, sequential extraction and leaching behavior of these metals were investigated. Cr, Zn, Pb and Cu were retained quantitively in the solid residue at temperatures up to 800°C while mercury and cadmium were completely or partially evaporated. The metal form distribution in the sludge samples was determined by the sequential extraction procedure. The procedure revealed that as a consequence of pyrolysis, the metals were more strongly fixed in the treated sediment, as could be seen by the decrease with temperature of the first two sequential-extracted fractions and increase of the residue fraction. The leaching results showed that the quantities of the studied metals leached in the two pyrolysis samples were lower than those in the untreated sediment. The amounts of metals leached from the pyrolysis residues correlated significantly with the first extracted fraction (exchangeable fraction). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present work developed a novel technique to treat chromite ore processing residue (COPR). The process involved mixing the COPR with sewage sludge followed by pyrolysis. The gaseous organic fraction generated during pyrolysis of sludge was beneficial to Cr(VI) reduction. Process variables, such as the amount of sludge added to COPR (sludge-to-COPR (S/C) ratio), heating temperature, reaction time and particle size, were systematically varied, and their influences on the Cr(VI) reduction in COPR were investigated. Cr(VI) content had decreased greatly, from 3384mg kg−1 for untreated COPR to less than 30mg kg−1 for COPR treated at 600°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: For comprehensive utilization of Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc., a systematic, environmental friendly preparative process was developed for purification of polydatin, resveratrol and anthraglycoside B simultaneously from the herb. The process was simple, consisting of macroporous resin adsorption and reversed-phase liquid chromatography. Macroporous resin adsorption separated the solvent extract into fraction I containing polydatin and fraction II containing resveratrol as well as anthraglycoside B. The fractions I and II were further purified by reversed-phase chromatography to get the fractions corresponding to polydatin, resveratrol and anthraglycoside B, respectively. Two polydivinylbenzene microspheres (PDVB-SPG and PDVB-Swelling) were prepared by SPG membrane emulsification and by two-step activated swelling polymerization, respectively. These new media were compared with a commercial C18 bonded silica medium in the reversed-phase liquid chromatography step. The PDVB-SPG column demonstrated a better separation compared with C18 and PDVB-Swelling column. The pH value of the mobile phase showed little effect on the separation of polydatin and resveratrol, and large effect on the separation of anthraglycoside B for both HPLC analysis and preparative reversed-phase liquid chromatography. After the chromatographic process and a further crystallization, polydatin, resveratrol and anthraglycoside B were purified from 7.5%, 1.3% and 2.4% to 98.8%, 98.2% and 98.6%, respectively, with total recoveries of 81.3%, 77.4% and 80.2%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc is widely used to treat acute hepatitis possibly by antioxidative mechanisms. The present study was designed to investigate whether emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside exerted neuroprotective effects on the focal cerebral injury induced by ischemia and reperfusion in vivo and on the neuronal damage induced by glutamate in vitro, and to study the possible mechanisms. Male Wistar rats were used to establish the model of ischemia and reperfusion. The behavioral test was performed and the cerebral infarction area was assessed in the brain slices stained with 2% 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, total antioxidative capability and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the brain tissue were determined with spectrophotometrical methods to probe the primary mechanisms of emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside. In vitro, the neuroprotective effects of emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside were tested in the cultured cortical cells of fetal rats exposed to glutamate. Emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside concentration in plasma and brain tissue was also measured to examine distribution of emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside in the brain. The results showed that the treatment of rats with emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside reduced the neurological deficit score and the cerebral infarction area, increased SOD activity and total antioxidative capability, and decreased MDA level in the brain tissue in dose-dependent way. Emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside also inhibited the neuronal damage induced by glutamate. Besides, emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside was able to penetrate blood-brain barrier and distribute in the brain tissue. These findings demonstrate that emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside is able to provide neuroprotection against cerebral ischemia-reperfused injury and glutamate induced neuronal damage through exerting antioxidative effects and inhibiting glutamate neurotoxicity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ginseng has long been used in Asia because of its beneficial effects on human health. Ginsenosides are the primary biologically active components in ginseng. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of ginsenosides on meiotic maturation of murine oocytes to better understand the effects of ginsenosides on reproductive health. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and denuded oocytes in germinal vesicle stage were isolated from equine chorionic gonadotropin-primed immature mice and were cultured for 24 hours in 10% fetal calf serum medium, which was supplemented with 4 mmol hypoxanthine to maintain meiotic arrest. Ginsenosides (1.0-10 μg/mL) overcame the hypoxanthine-maintained meiotic arrest. In addition, ginsenosides-stimulated meiotic maturation in COCs was assessed by increased germinal vesicle breakdown and first polar body extrusion. No effect of ginsenosides was observed on denuded oocytes. In addition, ginsenosides (1.0 μg/mL) could synergize with follicle-stimulating hormone (0.1 IU/mL) to promote oocyte meiotic maturation in COCs. Tamoxifen (an estrogen receptor α antagonist) did not influence the ginsenosides-induced meiotic maturation, suggesting the effect was not mediated by estrogenic action. However, a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, N ω -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 1 mmol), reduced the ginsenosides-induced oocyte maturation in COCs. Immunocytochemical analysis demonstrated that ginsenosides enhanced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the cumulus cells. l-NAME reduced the ginsenoside-induced increase in iNOS immunoreaction. Our results indicate that ginsenosides might stimulate meiotic maturation of mouse oocytes through a paracrine pathway involving the NO/iNOS system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• With the reduction in defect depth, the TKE and shearing rate increased in both deep and shallow defects. • The bottom of the defect has a lower mass transfer coefficient than the upper and trailing edges of the defect due to the boundary layer. • An elevated TKE and shearing rate are presented at the upper and trailing edge of the defect. • Both deep and shallow defects, the defects with shallower depth have tend to deepen and expand along the radial direction. The electrochemical corrosion behavior and the development mechanism of the local corrosion of X65 steel under different defect depths were studied by using macroscopic electrochemical measurements and characterization techniques. A CO 2 -saturated NACE solution was used to study electrochemical corrosion characteristics in the single-phase flow-accelerated corrosion test loop system. Changes in the flow characteristic around the defects at different depths were characterized by COMSOL. The results indicated that samples with lower depth defects tend to deepen towards the radial direction both in the deep defects and shallow defects. Moreover, the upper and trailing edge of the defect has a tendency to deepen and expand the region of the defect under the influence of higher turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and the shearing rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Chromite Ore Processing Residue (COPR) is the byproduct of chromate production process, which contains a large amounts of Cr(VI). The present work developed a new technique to treat COPR, and the process involved mixing the COPR with rice straw followed by pyrolysis. It was found that the gaseous organic fraction generated during pyrolysis of straw was beneficial to Cr(VI) reduction. In the study, process variables, such as the amount of straw added to COPR, heating temperature and particle size, were systematically varied, and their influences on the Cr(VI) reduction in COPR were all investigated. After pyrolysis, Cr(VI) decreased greatly, from 3400 for untreated COPR to less than 30mgkg−1 for treated COPR at 600°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this paper, local corrosion pits were stimulated by arc defect pits (ADP) of different sizes. The corrosion of specimens was tested in high-speed flow CO 2 -saturated NACE solution. Electrochemical corrosion characteristics were monitored online. The characteristics of corrosion scale were then investigated by SEM and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed deepening and expansion of corrosion pits will occur at the same time under flow conditions for shallow pits. The development of corrosion pits at certain depth led to formation of complete corrosion scale, which inhibited further corrosion. As corrosion pits deepened, expansion process decreased and deepening rates accelerated. In-depth analysis suggested that corrosion rates were mainly affected by mass transfer rate and integrity of formed corrosion scale. • The interaction between the deepening process of the local corrosion pit and the flow is simulated. • Proved the corrosion process of different regions of uneven surface is different under flow condition. • Evaluated the influence of development stage of local corrosion pit on corrosion process, and the process of deepening and expanding corrosion pit is clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental-friendly epoxy (EP) composite coatings are regarded as distinguished candidates for preventing metal corrosion. In this paper, we synthesized a novel GO-PDA-MoS 2 /EP nanocomposite coating system by modifying dopamine (PDA) functionalized graphene oxide (GO) with MoS 2. Here, the effect of different MoS 2 additions on the corrosion resistant properties of coatings was investigated by altering the ratio of MoS 2 to GO-PDA via electrochemical measurements, long-duration immersion experiments, and water contact angle tests. The results indicated that 0.3 wt.% MoS 2 can substantially enhance the interfacial compatibility between EP and GO-PDA and the GO-PDA-MoS 2 -0.3 wt.%/EP coating presented optimum corrosion resistant properties. Specifically, the impedance modulus (|Z|) of the GO-PDA-MoS 2 -0.3 wt.%/EP coating still reached 2.36 × 107 Ω·cm2 after 30 days immersed, which was two orders of magnitude higher than pure EP coatings. This work demonstrates a novel economical and environmental scheme that MoS 2 can be employed to enhance the corrosion resistant properties and improve the interfacial interactions of EP coatings. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of welding reinforcement height (WRH) within oil and gas pipelines can lead to micro-turbulence in localized areas during transportation, resulting in corrosion failure. This study employed a modular reconstruction method to simulate and reconstruct X80 steel welded joints, and investigated the erosion-corrosion behavior at the WRH using wire beam microelectrode, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and computational fluid dynamics simulations. The results show that the galvanic current density (GCD) in the weld metal exhibits cathodic behavior, while the GCD in the base metal and heat-affected zone shows anodic behavior. The top of WRH is susceptible to corrosion failure. As the radius of WRH increases, the corrosion rate also increases. Additionally, the corrosion rate increases similarly with an increase in flow velocity. The galvanic corrosion intensity factor (g) is 0.24, and the local corrosion is moderate. This work has scientific significance in ensuring the long-term safe operation of pipelines and reducing the risk of corrosion failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion technology has gained significant attention as an organic solid waste treatment method due to its favorable economic and environmental benefits. However, after digestion, the digestate still contains a significant amount of underutilized organic matter. Sustainable management and resource utilization of digestate plays a crucial role in achieving resource circularity and implementing a circular economy. Previous reviews have mainly focused on improving the operational efficiency and stability of anaerobic digestion, with limited exploration of sustainable management and resource utilization of digestate. To address this gap, this review provides a systematic summary of the sustainable management and resource utilization of digestate. First, the basic characteristics of digestate are outlined. Then, based on a visual analysis of literature on digestate management from the past decade, the review highlights the hotspots in sustainable management and circular utilization of digestate. Finally, it summarizes the relevant policies on digestate management in different regions and outlines the challenges in digestate treatment and disposal. The challenges in digestate management remain a significant issue that requires further exploration and solutions. This review aims to promote the standardization of digestate management, provide direction for further in-depth research on digestate, and contribute to the continued development of resource cycling of anaerobic fermentation products. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Mussel-inspired perfluorinated polydopamine film were prepared on brass. • The corrosion current density distribution of galvanic couple was measured by SVET. • The superhydrophobic samples show excellent anticorrosion behavior in sea water. Abstract Inspired by the adhesive properties of protein of mussels, perfluorinated polydopamine (f PDA) film on brass surface was obtained through spontaneous polymerization of dopamine monomer, followed by functionalization with 1H,1H,2H,2H- perfluorodecanethiol (PFDT). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and water contact angle (WCA) measurements revealed the formation of uniform, compact and superhydrophobic film. Electrochemical tests indicated that brass-coated with f PDA possessed a low corrosion current density and high film resistance. The modified sample dipped in 3 wt.% NaCl aqueous solution was well preserved. The results clearly indicate that the remarkable anti-corrosion capability was the result of the synergistic/cooperative effects of the superhydrophobicity and enhanced adhesion of the f PDA film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa) is a complex genetic disease, and the implementation of personalized treatment in PCa faces challenges due to significant inter- and intrapatient tumor heterogeneities. Objective To systematically explore the genomic complexity of tumor cells with different Gleason scores (GSs) in PCa. Design, setting, and participants We performed single-cell whole genome sequencing of 17 tumor cells from localized lesions with distinct GS and matched four normal samples from two prostatectomy patients. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis All classes of genomic alterations were identified, including substitutions, insertions/deletions, copy number alterations, and rearrangements. Results and limitations Significant spatial, intra- and intertumoral heterogeneities were observed at the cellular level. In the patient 1, all cells shared the same TP53 driver mutation, implying a monoclonal origin of PCa. In the patient 2, only a subpopulation of cells contained the TP53 driver mutation, whereas other cells carried different driver mutations, indicating a typical polyclonal model with separate clonal cell expansions. The tumor cells from different sides of prostate owned various mutation patterns. Considerable neoantigens were predicted among different cells, implying unknown immune editing components helping prostate tumor cells escaping from immune surveillance. Conclusions There is a significant spatial genomic heterogeneity even in the same PCa patient. Our study also provides the first genome-wide evidence at single-cell level, supporting that the origin of PCa could be either polyclonal or monoclonal, which has implications for treatment decisions for prostate cancer. Patient summary We reported the first single-cell whole genomic data of prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa) from different Gleason scores. Identification of these genetic alterations may help understand PCa tumor progression and clonal evolution. Take Home Message Our study provides the first genome-wide evidence at cellular level supporting that the origin of prostate cancer could be either polyclonal or monoclonal. There is significant spatial genomic heterogeneity of prostate cancer even in the same patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characteristics of biomass oxygen gasification with a higher equivalence ratio (0.31–0.40) in a pilot scale (50 kg/h) downdraft fixed bed gasification system were studied using pine wood block and corn stalk briquette as feedstocks. Experiments were carried out to investigate the influence of the higher equivalence ratio on the gasification performance. The gas composition was analyzed by gas chromatography. Upon increasing the equivalence ratio from 0.31 to 0.40, the reaction temperature, gas yield, and carbon conversion efficiency increased, while the lower heating value and tar and dust contents of syngas decreased. The gas yield and carbon conversion efficiency of corn stalk briquette gasification were lower than those of pine wood block gasification by about 3.0% and 5.0% at each equivalence ratio. The higher equivalence ratio strengthened the gasification and improved the gas yield as well as carbon conversion but lowered the lower heating value of the syngas. Too high equivalence ratio (>0.40) would result in excess gasification and more combustible components being burnt out. Too low equivalence ratio (<0.31) would lead to incomplete gasification and more tar residue. The optimal equivalence ratios were 0.37 and 0.33 for corn stalk briquette and pine wood block, respectively. The results of this study will help to improve our understanding of syngas production with low tar and medium heating values by biomass oxygen gasification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) have the capacity to differentiate into mature cell types of multiple tissues. Thus, they represent an alternative source for organ-specific cell replacement therapy in degenerative diseases. In this study, we demonstrated that female rat BMSCs could differentiate into steroidogenic cells with the capacity for de novo synthesis of Estradiol-17 ß (E2) under high glucose culture conditions with or without retinoic acid (RA). The cultured BMSCs could express the mRNA and protein for P450arom, the enzyme responsible for estrogen biosynthesis. Moreover, radioimmunoassay revealed that BMSCs cultured in the present culture system produced and secreted significant amounts of testosterone, androstenedione, and E2. In addition, RA promoted E2 secretion but did not affect the levels of androgen. These results indicate that BMSCs can synthesize and release E2 and may contribute to autologous transplantation therapy for estrogen deficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model has been successfully used to identify critical source areas (CSAs) at the lake basin scale. However, when employing the well-mixed river channel model, SWAT has difficulty in decomposing the pollutant load at watershed outlet in terms of origin location. In previous studies, the river migration process is not included in the CSAs identification framework. The identification criterion for CSAs mainly based pollutant load releasing into river rather than the final pollutant load flowing into lake. This study is used to develop a new computational framework to address this problem. The SWAT model was used to offer a linkage between pollution input in the upstream watershed and pollutant load response at the watershed outlet. Simulation test was utilized to investigate the pollution contributions from different agricultural activities and from different villages. Combined with the agricultural production statistic data, the pollution contribution from each village was separately calculated, and the cumulative curve of pollution distribution was thus drawn to identify CSAs. We illustrated this method in the Lake Erhai basin, Yunnan province, China. CSAs for N pollution were identified, and a comparison with the existing method was made. The quantitative results indicate that there is a large gap between the pollutant loads released to river and flowed to lake. The river migration process was vital for N degradation so as to significantly influence the final CSAs map. The new method improved the ability of supplying a more comprehensive delineation of CSAs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This research was initiated to determine the effects of different constituents and properties of zeolite synthesized from fly ash (ZFA) on Cr(III) sorption. The uptake of Cr(III) by ZFA was influenced greatly by pH, increasing with the increase in pH. The pH was controlled mainly by calcium-related components (especially CaCO3 and free CaO) and zeolite components in ZFAs. Sorption maximum of Cr(III) (), determined by a repeated batch equilibration method, ranged from 22.29 to 99.91 mg/g for the 14 ZFAs. The value correlated significantly with Ca-related components. The correlation coefficients were 0.9467, 0.5469, 0.7521, and 0.9195 for total Ca, CaCO3, CaSO4, and f.CaO, respectively. The value was also closely related to cation-exchange capacity () and specific surface area (). Correlation coefficients of with dissociated Fe2O3 and Al2O3 were much higher than those of total Fe and total Al contents, respectively. It was suggested that, in ZFAs, zeolite and iron oxide acted as ion exchanger and adsorbent for Cr(III), respectively, while Ca components elevated the pH of the reaction system and consequently promoted ion exchange and adsorption and caused the surface precipitation of chromium hydroxide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, the corrosion electrochemical information under different thicknesses of liquid film was tested. The local corrosion development process of X80 steel under different thicknesses of liquid film was studied by combining the detection and analysis of scale and the matrix corrosion morphology. The corrosion was studied by EIS. The composition and microstructures of corrosion scale at different locations were detected by EDS and SEM, and the metal matrix was detected by 3D topography technology to analyze the local corrosion. The results show that a liquid film with a thickness greater than or equal to 1 mm has no effect on the mechanism of the corrosion process, but has a control effect on the corrosion rate and the time of each stage in corrosion. The corrosion process can be divided into two stages: in the early stage, the concentration of ions inside and outside ADP is the same, so the corrosion is uniform; in the later stage, due to the influence of CO2 dissolution and mass transfer distance, the cathodic reaction is mainly outside ADP and the anodic reaction is mainly inside ADP. In addition, corrosion acidification occurs in ADP, which enhances the corrosion process in ADP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Leaching behavior and environmental risk of Mn+ in FA exposed to MLL were studied. • Early leaching of MLL increased the OPTI level of Mn+ in liquid-phase. • The ability of FA3 in reducing STI level of Mn+ in solid-phase was better than FA2. • Non-adsorptive DOM-Mn+ was the main complex form in the early leaching stage. • HJ/T300-2007 was more effective than MLL in enhancing FA exposure scenario. Solidification/stabilization pretreatment + landfill disposal in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill sites is a widely accepted MSW incineration (MSWI) fly ash (FA) management strategy in China. However, in reality, the stability of FA disposed in MSW landfill sites may be affected by the organic landfill leachate environment. The purpose of this study was to explore the mobility and environmental risks of six toxic metals (Mn+, Pb/Zn/Cu/Cd/Cr/Ni), from raw and solidified/stabilized FA, by simulating a leaching environment with mature landfill leachate (MLL). The leaching of Mn+ mainly occurred in the early leaching stage, and their leaching behavior was controlled by the diffusion of surface Mn+ in the FA matrix. The destructive effect of dissolved organic matter (DOM) on the local precipitation-dissolution equilibrium of FA-leachate interface, the formation of non-adsorptive DOM-Mn+ complex (easy to migrate), and the competitive effect of DOM on the binding sites of Mn+ on the surface of the FA matrix may play an important role in increasing the leaching level of most Mn+. By contrast, the potential of solidified FA in reducing the environmental risk level of leached Mn+ was better than that of stabilized FA. However, the immobilization capability of solidification/stabilization pretreatment on various types of Mn+ in FA should be judged according to their practical disposal environment. Compared to MLL leaching tests, Acetic Acid Buffer Solution Method (HJ/T300-2007) can effectively strengthen the exposure environment and provide a reliable reference level of environmental risk for MSWI FA disposed in MSW landfill sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A superhydrophobic Cu Co coating is successfully applied to the surface of a B10 copper–nickel (Cu Ni) alloy welded joint via electrodeposition and modification using a low-surface-energy material (stearic acid). The static water contact angle is measured to be 162.2 ± 1°, and the roll off angle is 2.1°. Various techniques, including scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared absorption spectroscopy are employed to characterize the chemical composition and phase structure of the samples before and after electrodeposition and modification. The corrosion resistance of the superhydrophobic samples is evaluated via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, and scanning Kelvin probe microelectrochemistry. The results indicate that the superhydrophobic coating exhibits greater charge transfer resistance, lower self-corrosion current density, and higher surface work function, thus effectively enhancing the corrosion resistance of the B10 Cu Ni alloy welded joint. Furthermore, the micro-nano rough structure with low surface energy on the superhydrophobic sample surface traps air and forms an air layer, thereby reducing the contact between the corrosive medium and welded joint as well as minimizing corrosion. The superhydrophobic coating demonstrate thermal stability as well as excellent self-cleaning and mechanical properties, based on comprehensive testing and analysis. [Display omitted] • A superhydrophobic coating was applied to the surface of the B10 copper-nickel alloy weld joint. • The preparation method is simple, fast, and results in a uniform coating structure. • The coating's corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, thermal stability, and self-cleaning ability were evaluated. • Scanning Kelvin Probe Microscopy was employed to assess the corrosion resistance of the coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoxetine (FLX), an emerging pollutant, has been detected in the sewage and excess sludge (ES) at substantial levels. So far, however, the impacts of FLX on the ES anaerobic digestion and the related mechanisms have never been investigated. In this work, the effects of FLX on the ES anaerobic digestion were explored by the batch test under moderate temperature condition. The results indicated the effect of FLX on ES digestion was dose-dependent. When FLX was at a low dose (0.1 mg/kg), FLX had no significant impact on the methane generation from the ES digestion. However，when FLX was 2.0 mg/kg, the cumulative methane production was only 91.2 ± 4.3 mL/g volatile suspended solids (VSS), which was about 59.9 ± 3.4% of the blank (without FLX). Mechanisms revealed that the presence of FLX has inhibited hydrolysis, acidification and methanogenesis. Enzyme activity analysis showed that FLX inhibited the activities of key enzymes in the process of hydrolysis, acidification and methanogenesis. The results of this work are of great significance to explain the role of FLX in the process of ES fermentation, and provide some reference for the subsequent utilization of ES. Unlabelled Image • The effect of FLX on ES digestion was explored for the first time. • The presence of FLX reduced methane accumulation from ES. • High content of FX inhibited ES hydrolysis and acidification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), an environmentally persistent pollutant, has been revealed to elicit hepatic toxicity. In the current study, we investigated the protective role of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) against PFOS-caused steatohepatitis in mice. Animals were exposed intragastrically to PFOS (10 mg/kg/day), GSPE (150 mg/kg/day), or their combination. After 21 days of treatment, mice exposed to PFOS exhibited steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the liver. Nevertheless, simultaneous administration of GSPE resumed the declined serum hepatic enzyme activities and histological abnormalities in PFOS-exposed mice. Furthermore, GSPE supplementation reduced the contents of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) and expression of lipid metabolism-associated genes CD36 and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) in the liver of mice treated with PFOS. Moreover, GSPE suppressed the generation of lipid peroxidative product malondialdehyde and restored the activity of superoxide dismutase in the liver of PFOS-exposed mice. In addition, GSPE repressed the PFOS-induced hepatic overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Our results demonstrate that GSPE attenuates PFOS-caused steatohepatitis in mice by regulating lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), an environmentally persistent pollutant, has been revealed to elicit hepatic toxicity. In the current study, we investigated the protective role of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) against PFOS-caused steatohepatitis in mice. Animals were exposed intragastrically to PFOS (10 mg/kg/day), GSPE (150 mg/kg/day), or their combination. After 21 days of treatment, mice exposed to PFOS exhibited steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in the liver. Nevertheless, simultaneous administration of GSPE resumed the declined serum hepatic enzyme activities and histological abnormalities in PFOS-exposed mice. Furthermore, GSPE supplementation reduced the contents of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) and expression of lipid metabolism-associated genes CD36 and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) in the liver of mice treated with PFOS. Moreover, GSPE suppressed the generation of lipid peroxidative product malondialdehyde and restored the activity of superoxide dismutase in the liver of PFOS-exposed mice. In addition, GSPE repressed the PFOS-induced hepatic overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Our results demonstrate that GSPE attenuates PFOS-caused steatohepatitis in mice by regulating lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abiraterone and MDV3100 are two effective anticancer agents for prostate cancer, however, the mechanism of their downstream action remains undefined. Methods: A dual fluorescent biosensor plasmid was transfected in LNCaP cells to measure mitophagy. The DNA of LNCaP cells was extracted and performed with quantitative real-time PCR to detect mitochondrial DNA copy number. JC-1 staining was utilized to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential and electron microscope was performed to analyze mitochondrial morphology. Moreover, the protein levels of mitochondrial markers and apoptotic markers were detected by western blot. At last, the proliferation and apoptosis of LNCaP cells were analyzed with CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry after abiraterone or MDV3100 treatment. Results: Mitophagy was induced by abiraterone and MDV3100 in LNCaP cells. The low expression level of mitochondrial DNA copy number and mitochondrial depolarization were further identified in the abiraterone or MDV3100 treatment groups compared with the control group. Besides, severe mitochondria swelling and substantial autophagy-lysosomes were observed in abiraterone- and MDV3100-treated LNCaP cells. The expression of mitochondria-related proteins, frataxin, ACO2 and Tom20 were significantly downregulated in abiraterone and MDV3100 treated LNCaP cells, whereas the expression level of inner membrane protein of mitochondria (Tim23) was significantly upregulated in the same condition. Moreover, the proliferation of LNCaP cells were drastically inhibited, and the apoptosis of LNCaP cells was increased in abiraterone or MDV3100 treatment groups. Meanwhile, the addition of mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1 (mitochondrial division inhibitor 1) could conversely elevate proliferation and constrain apoptosis of LNCaP cells. Conclusions: Our results prove that both abiraterone and MDV3100 inhibit the proliferation, promote the apoptosis of prostate cancer cells through regulating mitophagy. The promotion of mitophagy might enhance the efficacy of abiraterone and MDV3100, which could be a potential strategy to improve chemotherapy with these two reagents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid-solid two-phase flow erosion can lead to great economic losses and safety concerns in the oil & gas storage and transportation industry. The solid particle erosion on weld reinforcement height (WRH) in liquid-solid high shear flows were systematically investigated by coupling the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the discrete phase model (DPM) method. The effects of liquid velocity, WRH height, particle flow rate, and particle size on the particle erosion in the WRH region were analyzed. Increasing erosion rate was observed with increasing liquid velocity. The erosion rate first increased and then decreased with increasing WRH height. The increasing erosion rate was observed with both increasing particle flow rates and particle sizes. The existence of defects on the WRH surface significantly increased the maximum erosion rates. This work can provide scientific guidelines for the corrosion protection and safe operation of long-distance oil & gas pipelines. [Display omitted] • Slurry erosion on WRH was investigated by CFD-DPM method. • The erosion rate first increased and then decreased with increasing WRH height. • The increasing erosion rate was observed with both increasing particle flow rates and particle sizes. • The existence of defects on the WRH surface significantly increased the maximum erosion rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Western countries. Most patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer can be treated with the main treatment: androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). The androgen receptor (AR) signaling axis plays a pivotal role in the progression of prostate cancer. However, most patients can ultimately progress to the castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) stage within 2 years. At this stage, drugs targeting the AR signaling axis, including enzalutamide and abiraterone acetate, cannot prevent the progression of prostate cancer, thus predicting a poor prognosis. The molecular mechanism lies in the aberrant AR reactivation, which exhibits an adaptive response to ADT, such as the presence of AR splice variants. Thus, CRPC treatment remains a challenge. Purpose: In addition to the AR axis, a mechanism leading to this progression should be determined. The present study mainly compared palmitoylated proteins between androgen-treated LNCaP cells and non-treated LNCaP cells by palmitoylome profiling, to illustrate the changes at proteomic levels. Materials and methods: To screen the androgen-induced palmitoylated proteins, we conducted proteomic experiments using clickable palmitate probe (Alk-C16) between three individual pairs of androgen-treated and non-treated LNCaP cells. Results: We identified 4351 unique peptides corresponding to 835 proteins, among them a number of these identified proteins were palmitoylated proteins, particularly eIF3L. Androgen treatment significantly increased the palmitoylation level of eIF3L, an individual subunit of eIF3. As an initiation factor, eIF3L plays a pivotal role in the translation of mRNAs encoding growth-promoting proteins by enhancing translation rates, thus controlling cell proliferation. Conclusion: In this study, we demonstrated that the regulation of eIF3L palmitoylation may provide new directions for the therapy of prostate cancer. Moreover, the increased level of androgen-induced eIF3L may be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of early-stage prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Acrylamide exposure increased the number of resorbed embryos. • Acrylamide inhibited the development of ectoplacental cone and placenta. • Acrylamide reduced the numbers of labyrinth vessels. • Acrylamide inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of the placenta. • Acrylamide disrupted the expression of placental development genes. Abstract Acrylamide, a carcinogen and neurotoxic substance, recently has been discovered in various heat-treated carbohydrate-rich foods. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of acrylamide exposure on placental development. Pregnant mice received acrylamide by gavage at dosages of 0, 10, and 50 mg/kg/day from gestational days (GD) 3 until GD 8 or GD 13. The results showed that acrylamide feeding significantly decreased the numbers of viable embryos and increased the numbers of resorbed embryos on GD 13. Acrylamide exposure reduced the absolute and relative weight of placentas and embryos, and inhibited the development of ectoplacental cone (EPC) and placenta, as shown by the atrophy of EPC and reduced placental area. Acrylamide markedly reduced the numbers of labyrinth vessels. Expression levels of most placental key genes such as Esx1 , Hand1 , and Hand2 mRNA dramatically decreased in acrylamide-treated placentas. Furthermore, acrylamide treatment inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of placentas, as shown by decreased Ki67-positive cells and Bcl-2 protein, and increased the expression of Bax, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-caspase-8 proteins. In conclusion, our results indicated that gestational exposure to acrylamide inhibits placental development through dysregulation of placental key gene expression and labyrinth vessels, suppression of proliferation, and apoptosis induction in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Solidified/stabilized fly ash decreases the leaching of heavy metals. • The addition of binder/additive does not affect the leaching pattern of heavy metals. • Distilled water leaching reduces the bioavailable heavy metals in residues. • Extreme acid corrosion increases the bioavailable heavy metal fractions in residues. • Increased bioavailable fractions re-increase the environmental risk of heavy metals. In this work, the leaching pattern, chemical speciation, and environmental risks of various heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cd, Cr, and Ni) were investigated synchronously under different acid corrosion conditions through end-point pH leaching experiments. The heavy metals were present in raw, stabilized (phosphoric acid; chelating agent), and solidified (Portland cement) municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash. The results showed that the stabilization and solidification pre-treatment could effectively decrease the leaching of most heavy metals. However, phosphoric acid stabilization and Portland cement solidification increased the solubility of Ni and Pb/Cu/Cd under low end-point pH conditions, while that of Cr and Pb increased under high end-point pH conditions. Overall, the leaching pattern of heavy metals was not affected by the addition of binders/additives. The results from speciation analysis showed that the bioavailable fractions (exchangeable and carbonate-bound) were leached out from initial raw or solidified/stabilized fly ash after distilled water leaching. However, with the decrease in end-point pH levels, the bioavailable fractions increased again due to the increase in acid corrosion on metal-bearing mineral matrixes. The risk assessment results indicated that, after exposing the raw or solidified/stabilized fly ash to highly acidic conditions, not only the high-content Pb/Zn/Cu, but also some low-content Cd posed potential risks to the environment. During the leaching process, under extremely acidic conditions, the increased environmental risks posed by Pb/Zn/Cu/Cd in residual fly ash solids were greatly ascribed to the increase in bioavailable fractions, which might result in the re-leaching of some heavy metals to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 (i.c.v.) induced antinociception in acute pain in mice. • Ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 induced antinociception through GHS-R1α and opioid receptors. • Ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 (i.c.v.) was distributed at the dorsal 3rd ventricle and hippocampus. • mRNA and protein levels of δ -opioid peptide and receptor were increased in the test. Abstract Ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 is the active N-terminal hepta-peptide of ghrelin as an agonist at the ghrelin receptor GHS-R1α. The biological functions of ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 have not been well investigated. Therefore in this study, we were interested in exploring the effects and molecular mechanisms of ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 in pain modulation at the supraspinal level using the tail withdrawal test in mice. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 (0.002, 0.02, 0.2 and 2 nmol/kg) induced a dose- and time-related antinociceptive effect. This antinociceptive effect was fully antagonized by co-injection with the GHS-R1α antagonist [D-Lys3]-GHRP-6, indicating that this effect induced by ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 was mediated through the activation of GHS-R1α. Interestingly, naloxone, β-funaltrexamine, naloxonazine, and naltrindole, but not nor-binaltorphimine, could also antagonize the antinociceptive effect markedly, suggesting that OPRM (primary μ 1 subtype) and OPRD were involved in the antinociceptive response induced by ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2. Furthermore, the qRT-PCR and Western blot results indicated that both mRNA and protein levels of PENK and OPRD were up-regulated significantly. Using the fluorescence labeling method, our results showed that ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 (i.c.v.) was mainly distributed at the dorsal 3rd ventricle and hippocampus where there are regions with high expressions of ghrelin, GHS-R1α and ORs. All these results indicated that ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 initially activated the GHS-R1α, then activated the OPRM, as well as increased the release of endogenous PENK to activate of OPRD to produce antinociception. These results contributed to understanding the mechanisms of antinociception induced by ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2. Furthermore, ghrelin(1–7)-NH 2 as the active fragment of ghrelin may be a promising peptide for developing new analgesic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a persistent organic pollutant, has been demonstrated to cause multiple toxicities. In this study, we explored the role of naringin (Nar) in alleviating PFOS-caused mouse liver injury and its potential mechanisms. Male mice were intragastrically administered PFOS (10 mg/kg/day) alone or with Nar (100 mg/kg/day) for 3 weeks. Nar supplementation led to resumption of elevated serum hepatic enzyme activities and increased relative liver weight in PFOS-challenged mice. Moreover, Nar treatment increased hepatic expression of transcription factor NRF2 protein and its regulated antioxidative enzyme genes heme oxygenase‑1, superoxide dismutase and catalase, with an inhibition of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide production. Furthermore, simultaneous administration of Nar suppressed PFOS-induced elevation in NF-κB activity and generation of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 in the liver. In addition, Nar enhanced anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression, decreased pro-apoptotic Bax expression and inhibited caspase‑3 activation in liver tissue in mice exposed to PFOS. Our results indicate that Nar protects against PFOS-induced hepatotoxicity in mice via modulating oxidative, inflammatory and apoptotic pathways. Highlights • Naringin restored serum hepatic enzyme activities and relative liver weight in PFOS-exposed mice. • Naringin exerted anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic roles in PFOS-induced hepatic damage. • NRF2 up-regulation and NF-κB inhibition contribute to hepatoprotection against PFOS by naringin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The internal-pipeline local corrosion in the welded joint region has been a widely concerning issue, particularly under the synergistic effect of high shear stress and electrochemical corrosion, which can easily result in pipeline rupture. Classical electrochemical testing techniques and wire beam microelectrode (WBE) are used to investigate the local corrosion behavior of X80 steel welded joints in a CO 2 -saturated NACE solution at different flow rates (velocities of 3 m/s, 5 m/s and 7 m/s), and the corrosion product composition and characteristics are analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and three-dimensional (3D) measuring laser microscopy. The results show that different welded joint zones exhibit different corrosion degrees. The heat-affected zone (HAZ) shows the worst corrosion resistance, whereas the base metal (BM) and weld metal (WM) show similar corrosion resistances. The HAZ is an anode that corrodes unsatisfactorily at high flow rates, and the enhanced wall shear stresses peel off part of the dense corrosion product film, promoting the development of local corrosion. Therefore, the HAZ zone is a weak link in the X80 steel welded joints. This study provides scientific guidelines for the corrosion protection of long-distance oil & gas pipelines. [Display omitted] • The welded joint corrosion was investigated by microelectrode array technique. • A welded joint was reconstructed by the wire beam electrode (WBE) techniques. • The corrosion tendency of isolated X80 steel BM, HAZ and WM in NACE solution was as HAZ>WM> BM. • HAZ had the worst corrosion resistance and was thus the weakest zone of the welded joints. • High wall shear stress effectively peeled off the corrosion product film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anaerobic fermentation of crop straw and animal wastes is increasingly used for the biogas and green energy generation, as well as reduction of the environmental pollution. The anaerobic cofermentation of corn stalks inoculated by cow dung was found to achieve higher biogas production and cellulose biodegradation. In this study, the effect of mixing corn stalks with cow dung at five different fermentation stages (0, 7, 15, 23, and 31 days of the total fermentation cycle of 60 days) on the further cofermentation process was explored, in order to optimize the corn straw utilization rate and biogas production capacity. In addition, the straw microstructure evolution was investigated by the SEM and XRD methods to identify the optimal conditions for the straw biodegradation process enhancement. The five test groups exhibited nearly identical total biogas productivity values but strongly differed by daily biogas yields (the maximal biogas generation rate being 524.3 ml/d). Based on the degradation characteristics of total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), and lignocellulose, groups #1 and #3 (0 and 15 days) had the most significant degradation rates of VS (43.73%) and TS (42.07%), respectively, while the largest degradation rates of cellulose (62.70%) and hemicellulose (50.49%) were observed in group #4 (23 days) and group #1 (0 days), respectively. The SEM analysis revealed strong microstructural changes in corn stalks after fermentation manifested by multiple cracks and striations, while the XRD results proved the decrease in peak intensity of cellulose 002 crystal surface and the reduced crystallinity after cofermentation. The results of this study are assumed to be quite instrumental to the further optimization of the corn stalk anaerobic digestion by inoculation with digested manure for lignocellulose degradation enhancement and biogas productivity improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Neuropathy target esterase (NTE, also known as neurotoxic esterase) is proven to deacylate phosphatidylcholine (PC) to glycerophosphocholine as a phospholipase B. Recently; studies showed that artificial phosphatidylserine/PC microvesicles can induce preeclampsia (PE)-like changes in pregnant mice. However, it is unclear whether NTE plays a key role in the pathology of PE, a pregnancy-related disease, which was characterized by deficient trophoblast invasion and reduced trophoblast-mediated remodeling of spiral arteries. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression pattern of NTE in the placenta from women with PE and normal pregnancy, and the molecular mechanism of NTE involved in the development of PE. Methods: NTE expression levels in placentas from 20 pregnant women with PE and 20 healthy pregnant women were detected using quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry staining. The effect of NTE on trophoblast migration and invasion and the underlying mechanisms were examined in HTR-8/SVneo cell lines by transfection method. Results: NTE mRNA and protein expression levels were significantly decreased in preeclamptic placentas than normal control. Over-expression of NTE in HTR-8/SVneo cells significantly promoted trophoblast cells migration and invasion and was associated with increased MMP-9 levels. Conversely, shRNA-mediated down-regulation of NTE markedly inhibited the cell migration and invasion. In addition, silencing NTE reduced the MMP-9 activity and phosphorylated Erk1/2 and AKT levels. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the decreased NTE may contribute to the development of PE through impairing trophoblast invasion by down-regulating MMP-9 via the Erk1/2 and AKT signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon–nitrogen ratio (COD/NH 4 + -N) is an important factor affecting nitrification and denitrification in wastewater treatment; this factor also influences nitrous oxide (N 2 O) emissions. This study investigated two simulated intermittently aerated semi-aerobic aged refuse bioreactors (SAARB) filled with 8-year old aged refuse (AR). The research analyzed how differences in and the combination of influent COD and NH 4 + -N impact N 2 O emissions in leachate treatment. Experimental results showed that N 2 O emissions increased as the influent COD/NH 4 + -N decreased. The influent COD had a greater effect on N 2 O emissions than NH 4 + -N at the same influent ratios of COD/NH 4 + -N (2.7 and 8.0, respectively). The maximum N 2 O emission accounted for 8.82 ± 2.65% of the total nitrogen removed from the influent leachate; the maximum level occurred when the COD was 2000 mg/L. An analysis of differences in influent carbon sources at the same COD/NH 4 + -N ratios concluded that the availability of biodegradable carbon substrates ( i.e. glucose) is an important factor affecting N 2 O emissions. At a low influent COD/NH 4 + -N ratio (2.7), the N 2 O conversion rate was greater when there were more biodegradable carbon substrates. Although the SAARB included the N 2 O generation and reduction processes, N 2 O reduction mainly occurred later in the process, after leachate recirculation. The maximum N 2 O emission rate occurred in the first hour of single-period (24 h) experiments, as leachate contacted the surface AR. In practical SAARB applications, N 2 O emissions may be reduced by measures such as reducing the initial recirculation loading of NH 4 + -N substrates, adding a later supplement of biodegradable carbon substrates, and/or prolonging hydraulic retention time (HRT) of influent leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrous oxide (N 2 O) is a strong greenhouse gas, and its emissions from microbial nitrification (NF) and denitrification (DNF) are a threat to the environment. In the present study, a combined approach consisting of 15 N stable isotope and molecular biology (qPCR) was used to determine the contributions of autotrophic nitrification (ANF), heterotrophic nitrification (HNF), and DNF to N 2 O emissions in laboratory incubations of aged refuse for different ammonia (NH 4 + -N) loads (200, 400, and 800 mg·NH 4 + -N/kg·aged refuse) and incubation times (2–144 h). Experimental results showed that the N 2 O emissions increased with the increase in applied amount of NH 4 + -N substrates. Simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) were demonstrated to be present in the incubations of aged refuse. The results of 15 N stable isotope labelling experiment indicated that NF (54.60%–68.8%) and DNF (83.38%–85.90%) contributed to majority of N 2 O emissions in the incubations of 24 h and 72 h, respectively. The results of functional genes ( amoA and nosZ ) quantification experiments indicated that the high gene copies of amoA and nosZ were present at 24 h and 72 h, respectively. The study also demonstrated the utility of a combined stable isotope and molecular biology approach. The approaches not only provide similar inferences about the N 2 O emissions, but also enable the determination of relative contributions of ANF, HNF, and DNF to N 2 O emissions. The results of the study are important in providing guidance to artificially optimize the operating conditions for alleviating N 2 O emissions in aged refuse bioreactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the most widely used agrochemicals worldwide, increasing the risk of their occurrence in the environment. This study aimed to explore effects and mechanisms of GBH exposure on placental development in vivo during pregnancy in mice. Pregnant mice received GBH by gavage at 0, 5, and 50 mg⋅kg−1⋅day−1 doses from gestational day (GD) 1 to GD 13 and were sacrificed on GD 13 or GD19. Our data indicated that GBH administration significantly increased the number of resorbed fetuses, reduced the weight of fetuses and placentas, and inhibited placental growth, as evident from decreased placental total area and spongiotrophoblast area on GD 19. GBH treatment also inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of placenta via upregulation of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and -12 expression, and downregulation of B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2 expression. Further study showed that GBH exposure significantly increased expression levels of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) mRNAs and proteins and triggered oxidative stress in placenta on GD 13 and GD 19. In conclusion, our findings suggest that maternal exposure to GBH can impair placental development through the endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated activation of GRP78/PERK/CHOP signaling pathway in mice. [Display omitted] • Maternal exposure to GBH increased the numbers of resorbed fetus. • GBH inhibited the placental development. • GBH induced placental apoptosis by endoplasmic reticulum stress. • GRP78/PERK/CHOP pathway was involved in GBH-induced placental impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationally packed porous carbon with high ion-accessible surface area and low ion-transport resistance is proved to be an excellent candidate as electrode materials in high performance supercapacitors. However, its cost-effective fabrication still remains a significant challenge. Here, we report on a novel three-dimensional hierarchical porous carbon (HPC) synthesized via a facile and low-cost approach from hazardous waste oily sludge for the first time. Both the smart “self-template” effect and appropriate activation effect are crucial for the rational hierarchical porous structure. The “self-template” procedure is the key point for creating the skeleton of carbon, and the KOH activation process is able to regulate pore size distribution and increase specific surface area. The as-fabricated HPC possesses favorable features for supercapacitor, such as outstanding specific surface area (2561 m 2 g −1 ), large pore volume (2.25 cm 3 g −1 ), tunable and large range of pore size distribution. The HPC-based electrode can deliver an admirable capacitance of 348.1 F g −1 at 0.5 A g −1 and 94.3% capacitance retention at 5 A g −1 after 10,000 cycles in aqueous electrolyte. Remarkably, the all-solid-state HPC//HPC symmetric supercapacitor displays outstanding capacitance of 81.3 F g −1 at 0.5 A g −1 with high energy density of 7.22 W h kg −1 . It is demonstrated that the strategy developed here would provide cost-effective production of HPC electrode material for high performance supercapacitors and offer a promising avenue of large-scale fabrication of HPC from other hazardous industrial waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]