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• ADMSCs accelerate skin wound healing. • IGF-1 strengthens the wound healing effect of ADMSCs. • Effects of IGF-1 on ADMSCs depend on the function of miR-21-5p. Mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) have been applied to the treatment of skin injuries and the co-administration of cytokines can enhance the effects. In the current study, the promoting effects of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) on the skin wound healing effects of adipose-derived MSCs (ADMSCs) were assessed and the associated mechanism was explored by focusing on miR-21-5p mediated pathways. ADMSCs were isolated from epididymis rats, and skin wounded rats were employed as the in vivo model for evaluating the effect of ADMCs on skin healing and secretion of cytokines. Then a microarray assay was employed to select potential miR target of IGF-1 on ADMSCs. The level of the selected miR was modulated in ADMSCs, and the effects on skin injuries were also assessed. Administration of ADMSCs promoted skin wound healing and induced the production of bFGF, IL-1β, PDGF, SDF-1, IGF-1, and TNF-α. The co-administration of IGF-1 and ADMSCs strengthened the effect of ADMSCs on skin wound by suppressing activity of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1). At molecular level, the treatment of IGF-1 up-regulated miR-21-5p level in ADMSCs, which then suppressed the expression of KLF6 in injured skin tissues and promoted wound healing. The inhibition of miR-21-5p counteracted the promoting effects of IGF-1 on the skin healing effects of ADMSCs. Findings outlined in the current study indicated that IGF-1 could promote the wound healing effects of ADMSCs by up-regulating miR-21-5p level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of glass synthesis methods on the properties of Ge–Se glasses is investigated. The homogeneity of a GeSe4 glass produced by mechanical convection in a rocking oven for 12 h at 950°C is characterized by Raman spectroscopy and Electron Microprobe analysis. It is found that the melt‐rocked glass is chemically and structurally homogeneous at all length scales investigated. In order to compare the effect of synthesis methods, another glass is produced following a static synthesis for 192 h. Their physical, structural, and dynamic properties are then characterized for comparative analysis. The molar volume and structure of both glasses are found to be identical when subjected to the same thermal history. The structural dynamics of GeSe4 investigated by heat capacity spectroscopy is identical for the static and rocked glass and also compared with that of GeSe9 and GeSe3. Overall, the two synthesis methods do not lead to any difference in measured properties. Finally, the effect of impurities is investigated in three glasses. The presence of water and oxygen impurities up to 30 ppm levels is shown to have no significant effect on physical and structural properties. Hence, the presence of water impurities cannot be attributed to mismatch in physical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemangioma (HA) are tumors formed by hyper-proliferation of vascular endothelial cells. As a potential endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) can mimic estrogen to disturb the estrogenic signals. Our present study investigated the potential roles of phthalates on the progression of HA and found that 100 nM BBP can significantly trigger the migration and invasion of HA cells, which was evidenced by the results that BBP can induce the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and vimentin. Further, BBP can increase the expression of Zeb1, one powerful transcription factor for cell migration and invasion. Targeted inhibition of Zeb1 blocked BBP induced cell migration. Mechanistically, BBP can increase the mRNA stability of Zeb1 via suppression of miR-655. Further, BBP can enhance the protein stability of Zeb1 via upregulation of ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM). Collectively, our present study revealed that BBP can trigger the migration and invasion of HA cells via upregulation of Zeb1. • BBP triggers the motility of HA cells. • Zeb1 is involved in BBP induced cell motility. • miR-655 is involved in BBP increased mRNA stability of Zeb1. • TAM mediates BBP increased protein stability of Zeb1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Using drilling and blasting method to construct the Mountain tunnel, it is important to monitoring and analysis of blasting seismic wave. The research of simple characteristics of blasting vibration wave such as amplitude, frequency, duration in the previous study, it is lack the detailed characteristics of blasting seismic waves such as frequency distribution characteristics of blasting seismic wave, blasting energy distribution. Thus, Fourier transform and wavelet packet transform are both used to analysis the time - frequency characteristics of measured vibration signal, and the characteristics of its multi-frequency band and energy distribution are discussed. The blasting vibration with the blasting charge of 79.2 kg are did, and the wave are received distance blast source 10 m, 25 m, 40 m. The maximum three vector resultant velocity at 10 m is 5.84 cm/s, which meets the specification safety requirement. Analysis of blasting vibration signals of vertical axis which distance blast source 10 m, the main frequency of this signal is 101.9 Hz, and the relative amplitude is 2382 use by Fourier transform. The Wavelet packet analysis show that, blasting vibration signal has obvious energy distribution characteristics of multi-frequency band. The dominant frequency band (31.25 Hz~125.00 Hz) contains more than 70% of the energy of vibration signal. Highlights • The blasting vibration test was carried out on the Xiaobei No.1 tunnel. • Fourier transform and wavelet packet analysis are performed on the same signal. • The highest frequency band was found in the first 10 bands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-defined gold nanoflower superhydrophobic surface (SHS) was constructed on iron foil by chemical deposition and anneal. The as-fabricated sample exerts excellent superhydrophobicity with water contact angle (WCA) up to 169°, a sliding angle of about 3°. The samples were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDX) to determine the morphology, structure and composition. The electrochemical measurements showed that the resultant surface displayed good corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt% sodium chloride aqueous solution. The effect of pH on the SHS and corrosion resistance ability of the samples at pH = 2, 7 and 9 were explored. The self-cleaning property of the SHS was analyzed. Also, the surface withstood abrasion by 400 grid SiC sandpaper for 2.0 m under 30 kPa, or water impacting for 120 min without losing its superhydrophobicity, indicating prominent mechanical durability. This successful manufacture of the gold SHS with anti-corrosion, self-cleaning, and mechanical durability can pave a prospective way for a variety of practical situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I-deficient BiOI thin film was prepared via a facile solvothermal approach assisted with a ([C 6 Mim]I) ionic liquid and calcination. The glass plates were pretreated with high pressurized water to make the substrate surface rough. A thin layer of BiOI grew stably on the rough surface of glass substrate with uniformly assembled nanosheets. As the preparation process repeated, BiOI crystals continued to grow and the film became denser and thicker with larger surface area and pore volume. During calcination, a small portion of iodine was lost and iodine vacancies formed, leading to I-deficient BiOI. The produced iodine vacancies acted as traps for photogenerated holes. Consequently, the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes were significantly inhibited. The film displayed an excellent photoelectric property and distinct photocatalytic degradation efficiency for bisphenol A (BPA), a typical endocrine disrupting compound (EDC), under simulated sunlight. The film also displayed very good durability and reusability. Without necessity to separate the photocatalysts from reaction solution, the as-prepared I-deficient BiOI thin film displayed a great potential for practical wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telluride glasses are very attractive due to their unique infrared transparency window compared to other chalcogenide glasses. The extension of their infrared transmission by changing the composition appears to be very challenging. Glasses in the (GeTe 4 ) 100-x (AgI) x system, with 5 ≤ x ≤ 30 have been synthesized using the melt-quenching method. The effect of the addition of silver iodide is a widening of the infrared transparency range up to 35 μm that is much larger than for any other chalcogenide glass families. Moreover, the moulding of these telluride glasses is also achievable without affecting the optical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well-defined Pt 3 Fe/Fe superhydrophobic materials on iron sheet with special properties, such as corrosion resistance, superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity, was fabricated. The fabrication process involved etching in hydrochloric acid aqueous solution and simple replacement deposition process without using any seed and organic solvent, and then annealing. The electrochemical measurements show that the resultant surface in 3.5% sodium chloride solution displays good corrosion resistance. Also, it is proved that the obtained surface has better mechanical abrasion resistance via scratch test. The superoleophilicity and low water adhesion force of the obtained surface endow it high oil/water separation capacity. The as-prepared nanocomposites display enhanced catalytic activity and kinetics toward degradation of methyl orange. In particular, it possesses the most efficient degradation capacity (95%) towards methyl orange at a high concentration (17.5 mg/L) in 80 min. The improved stability and excellent catalytic activity of the Pt 3 Fe/Fe nanocomposites promise new opportunities for the development of waste water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fine-sized CdSe x S 1-x quantum dots were biosynthesized by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. • The bio-CdSe x S 1-x exhibited superior photo-activity under visible light. • Bio-hybrid exhibited higher nitrate removal efficiency than the bare cells. • NADH regeneration and denitrifying enzyme expression were enhanced in the bio-hybrid. • Bio-hybrid showed stable denitrification performance for treating real wastewater. Synergizing photocatalytic and biological processes in bio-hybrids offers opportunities to address the carbon deficiency challenge of wastewater denitrification, but is currently limited by the sluggish reaction kinetics due to inefficient transmembrane electron transfer. Herein, we report a self-assembled, intracellularly-photosensitized bio-hybrid, consisting of heterotrophic denitrifiers Pseudomonas aeruginosa and biogenic selenide/ sulfide quantum dots (CdSe x S 1-x QDs), to allow significantly improved photo-electrons utilization. It achieved 97.1 % nitrate removal within 36 h for treating low-carbon wastewater, which is 3.5-fold and 3-fold faster than those of the bare cells and the physically-mixed cells and bio-QDs. The selectivity for nitrogen gas production reached 72.1 %, against only 59.9 % in the bare cells control. Accordingly, the expression of several key denitrifying enzymes was stimulated by the photo-excited electrons. The bio-hybrid exhibited good denitrification performance during 5 cyclic operations. Its good performance for treating several real wastewaters was also demonstrated. This work broadens the application niches of photocatalytic bio-hybrid and may inspire the development of more sustainable biotechnologies for low-carbon wastewater denitrification application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a facile approach was developed for producing stable Ag–Fe2O3/Fe superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) with dendritic structures. The hierarchical structures were fabricated on iron substrates through etching in a hydrochloric acid aqueous solution and a simple replacement deposition process was carried out without any organic modification, followed by annealing. The contact angle can reach 164 ± 1° and the sliding angle is almost 2 ± 1°. By comparison, the catalytic properties of the hydrophilic sample and SHS were examined. The SHS exhibited excellent catalytic performance. The rate constant of SHS was 3.00 × 10−3 s−1, which was about three times higher than that of the hydrophilic sample without annealing, and the degradation rate was maintained above 90% after ten recycles. The experimental results showed that the as-prepared SHSs exhibited excellent catalytic, self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and anti-icing properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure of (GeTe4)1-x(AgI)x (x = 0.15 and 0.25) glasses has been investigated by X-ray and neutron diffraction as well as extended X-ray absorption spectroscopy (EXAFS) and Raman spectroscopy. Large-scale structural models have been obtained by fitting simultaneously the experimental datasets in the framework of the reverse Monte Carlo simulation technique (RMC). Short-range order parameters have been calculated and compared with that of GeTe4. Doping with AgI affects the structure of the host GeTe4 matrix in two ways. First, while Te is essentially twofold coordinated in GeTe4, its coordination number is as high as ~2.9 ± 0.3 for x = 0.25. The change is mainly due to the increased fraction of Te-Te bonds. Second, Ge atoms remain fourfold coordinated but the tetrahedral symmetry is distorted due to the elongation of some Ge-Te bonds. The incorporation of AgI in the GeTe4-based host covalent matrix and the Te coordination increase explains the enhanced thermal stability of (GeTe4)1-x(AgI)x in the supercooled liquid-state hindering the crystallization of Te found in case of GeTe4 glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms of osteoarthritis (OA) by microarray analysis. Three gene expression datasets GSE1919, 19664 and 55235 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus, and data of OA samples and healthy controls were used. After data preprocessing, differential expression analysis between the OA group and controls was performed using LIMMA (Linear Models for Microarray Data) package and genes with |log 2 FC (fold change)| > 1 and P < 0.05 were screened as DEGs (differentially expressed genes). The screened DEGs were then subject to functional annotation and pathway enrichment analysis using DAVID (Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery). Next, gene-set enrichment analysis was performed using Enrichment map Cytoscape plug-in, followed by detecting sub-networks using clusterONE. Finally, risk subpathways were screened using iSubpathwayMiner package. A total of 141 DEGs were screened, including 52 up-regulated ones and 89 down-regulated ones. These DEGs were enriched in 48 GO terms that were mainly related to locomotory behavior, taxis, adhesion, and 11 pathways that were related to cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, ECM-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, as well as several signaling pathways. The enrichment map enriched gene-sets mainly related to cell death and apoptosis, and extracellular components. The risk pathways up-regulated DEGs were exclusively related to arachidonic acid metabolism and glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, and the top two risk pathways were tyrosine metabolism for the down-regulated ones. From this study we conclude that genes involved in cell death and apoptosis, as well as cell–extracellular matrix interaction, may be essential for OA pathogenesis by altering multiple signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Cr3+/Yb3+-codoped glasses were studied as broadband down shifting materials for improving solar cells’ efficiency. We observed Föster resonance energy transfers (FRET) from Cr3+: 4T2g to Yb3+: 2 F5/2. The ET efficiency was up to 84 %, and the measured quantum yield (QY) reached 21.51 %. The glass can convert solar photons in super wide UV–Vis range to near infrared photons with the minimum quantum yields larger than 10%. Thus, such materials can be applied for improving silicon solar cells’ conversion efficiency. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • An inorganic-bio hybrid with biogenic CdSe x S 1-x nanoparticles was constructed. • Photo-electrons generated by CdSe x S 1-x stimulated hydrogen production by E. coli. • Photo-electrons were more efficiently utilized by cells than conventional hybrid. • Cell viability was not impaired due to holes scavenging by bacterial metabolites. Photosensitizing bacterial cells with semiconductor nanoparticles is an attractive way to enhance fermentative hydrogen production metabolism via harnessing solar energy as extra driving force, but the enhancement degree is typically limited by inefficient utilization of extracellular photo-electrons. Here, an intimately-coupled inorganic-bio hybrid with enhanced hydrogen-producing activity was constructed by utilizing self-assembled selenide/ sulfide semiconductor nanoparticles (CdSe x S 1-x) in Escherichia coli as the light harvester. Due to circumvention of transmembrane electron transfer limitation, this hybrid exhibited 2.6-fold higher hydrogen production rate than those with extracellular nanoparticles and achieved light energy conversion efficiency as high as 27.6%. The incorporation of photocatalysis did not impair the bacterial viability, attributed to an efficient scavenging of photo-excited holes by metabolites (e.g., lactate) and minimal reactive oxygen species production. Overall, the light-assisted fermentation system developed in this study offer opportunities for sustainable production of bio-hydrogen and may be extended to bio-photocatalytic production of other valuable chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A green approach to recycling hazardous solid waste EAFD is proposed. • EAFD slurry is used in wet desulfurization, realizing " waste control by waste". • Calcined EAFD formulated slurry with excellent desulfurization performance. • Residues (ZnFe 2 O 4) after wet desulfurization of EAFD slurry can be recycled. In this study, we used calcined hazardous waste electric arc furnace dust (EAFD) as a desulfurizer for an effective wet desulfurization process. Testing for desulfurization efficacy revealed that the calcined EAFD, particularly when treated at 800 °C in an oxygen (O 2) environment (termed EAFD-O 2), achieved an unprecedented breakthrough sulfur capacity (BSC) of 3.71 gSO 2 ·g−1 at 55 °C-the highest to date for EAFD applications in desulfurization efforts. Further investigation indicated that the calcination method expels certain volatile contaminants, thereby enhancing the crystallinity and lattice oxygen content of zinc oxide, the strong active phase of desulfurization in EAFD, which is principally responsible for the superior desulfurization results of EAFD-O 2. Moreover, the observed reduction in the desulfurization slurry's activity primarily stems from the depletion of the strong active phase of desulfurization (ZnO) and the resultant rise in the liquid phase's sulfate concentration. Notably, the deactivated slurry's solid residue predominantly consists of high-purity ZnFe 2 O 4 , a form of zinc ferrite utilized extensively for its proficiency in photocatalytic. Following straightforward processing, this substance displayed exceptional performance in photocatalytic-Fenton degradation tests on tetracycline (TC). In sum, the study not only turns hazardous EAFD into a powerful agent for removing SO 2 , a gaseous pollutant but also converts it into a value-added material, ZnFe 2 O 4 , thus proposing an integrated and efficient approach to solid waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To investigate the clinical value of ultrasound combined with electrophysiological examination in the diagnosis of early carpal tunnel syndrome, we aimed to provide a new EMG (electromyography) method for detecting early carpal tunnel syndrome by exploring the wrist back stretch position and electrophysiological examination. Methods. For the 82-lateral wrist (case group) of 62 patients with clinical symptoms or confirmed carpal tunnel syndrome and 40 normal healthy patients, neuroelectrophysiological measurements were performed using a Keypoint6.0 EMG evoked potentiometer, measuring each group twice: conventional position (before compression) and dorsal wrist extension position. The measures for each measurement included DSL, DML, and CAMP. Measure sensory conduction first and then measure motor conduction. The measurements were analyzed in a comprehensive comparative analysis. Combined ultrasound examination, the positive rate of combined ultrasound examination and electrophysiological examination was compared, respectively. Results. In the carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) group, the anterior and posterior median nerve DSL was (4.27 ± 0.73) ms and (4.82 ± 0.65) ms, and SNAP was (13.32 ± 13.68) UV and (12.19 ± 11.04) UV; the median nerve (wrist-bunions) DML was (5.29 ± 1.26) ms and (5.54 ± 1.29) ms, and CMAP was (6.44 ± 2.40) mV and (6.21 ± 2.46) mV. Mid-median DSL and DM in the CTS group L were significantly longer than before compression; median nerve SNAP and CMAP were significantly reduced compared with before compression. Conclusion. Electrophysiological testing at the dorsal carpal extension position has high diagnostic value in the diagnosis of mild carpal tunnel syndrome. It helps to improve the diagnostic rate of early carpal tunnel syndrome, while providing a more accurate and effective EMG detection of early carpal tunnel syndrome, and combination examination of neuroelectrophysiology and ultrasound can improve the diagnosis rate of compression peripheral nerve diseases and clarify the site, nature, and scope of compression lesions, which is worthy of clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic exposure is a significant risk factor for folate-resistant neural tube defects (NTDs), but the potential mechanism is unclear. In this study, a mouse model of arsenic-induced NTDs was established to investigate how arsenic affects early neurogenesis leading to malformations. The results showed that in utero exposure to arsenic caused a decline in the normal embryos, an elevated embryo resorption, and a higher incidence of malformed embryos. Cranial and spinal deformities were the main malformation phenotypes observed. Meanwhile, arsenic-induced NTDs were accompanied by an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance manifested by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased antioxidant activities. In addition, changes in the expression of autophagy-related genes and proteins (ULK1, Atg5, LC3B, p62) as well as an increase in autophagosomes were observed in arsenic-induced aberrant brain vesicles. Also, the components of the upstream pathway regulating autophagy (AMPK, PKB, mTOR, Raptor) were altered accordingly after arsenic exposure. Collectively, our findings propose a mechanism for arsenic-induced NTDs involving AMPK/PKB-mTORC1-mediated autophagy. Blocking autophagic cell death due to excessive autophagy provides a novel strategy for the prevention of folate-resistant NTDs, especially for arsenic-exposed populations. [Display omitted] • Arsenic causes cranial and spinal deformities in mouse embryos. • Arsenic-induced NTDs are accompanied by an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance. • Excessive autophagy is observed in arsenic-induced aberrant brain vesicles. • ROS-dependent AMPK/PKB-mTORC1 participates in arsenic-induced NTDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Microbial storage and VFAs production in AD sludge were impaired by salinity. • Compatible solutes production was stimulated under high salinity. • The intracellular polymers dynamics were incorporated in the model. • The model more accurately describes the AD process under salinity than ADM1. Abstract High salinity can suppress the metabolic activities of anaerobic sludge in treating saline organic wastewater, but its impacts on production of intracellular polymers, which play important roles in microbial metabolism and carbon storage, remain unclear. This work examined the dynamics of intracellular polymers, functioning as microbial storage (for supplementing re-utilizable carbon source) and compatible solutes (for equalizing the salinity-induced osmotic pressure) respectively, in response to salinity (0–30 g/L NaCl) and evaluated their impacts on glucose transformation in a batch-fed anaerobic digestion (AD) system. Based on the experimental data, a mathematical model was developed to distinguish the stored carbohydrates and compatible solutes, and quantify the metabolic products. The results show a significantly stimulated formation of compatible solutes and a suppressed production of stored carbohydrates and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) under the salinity shock, due to their competition for substrate electrons. Taking into account the dynamics of intracellular polymers, the model in this study provides a more accurate description on the batch AD process under salinity shock than the existing Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1) proposed by the International Water Association (IWA). This work may lay a solid basis for improved monitoring and optimization of practical saline wastewater treatment processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keloid is characterized by hyper-proliferation of fibroblasts and excess extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Transmembrane protein 88 (TMEM88), belonging to the TMEM family, was involved in the regulation of tumorigenesis and fibrogenesis. However, the role of TMEM88 in keloid formation remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of TMEM88 on keloid-derived fibroblasts (KFs) proliferation and ECM expression, and explore the underlying mechanism. Our results demonstrated that TMEM88 was lowly expressed in human keloid tissues and TGF-β1-stimulated KFs. TMEM88 overexpression significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of KFs, as well as suppressed ECM expression in TGF-β1-stimulated KFs. Furthermore, TMEM88 overexpression greatly inhibited the protein levels of β-catenin, cyclin D1 and c-myc in TGF-β1-stimulated KFs. In conclusion, our data indicate that TMEM88 inhibits the TGF-β1-stimulated cell proliferation, migration and ECM expression in KFs through the inactivation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Therefore, TMEM88 may be a potential therapeutic target for treating keloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical and structural homogeneity of selenide glasses produced by mechanical homogenization of the melt in a rocking furnace is investigated by Raman and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Both techniques demonstrate that the glass is macroscopically homogeneous along the entire length of a 6 cm rod. EDS imaging performed over four orders of magnitude in scale further confirms that the glass is homogeneous down to the sub-micron scale. An estimate of the diffusion coefficient from experimental viscosity data shows that the diffusion length is far larger than the resolution of EDS and therefore confirms that the glass is homogeneous at any length scale. In order to investigate a systematic mismatch in physical properties reported in the literature for glasses produced by extended static homogenization, two germanium selenide samples are produced under the same conditions except for the homogenization step: one in a rocking furnace for 10 h and the other in a static furnace for 192 h. No difference in physical properties is found between the two glasses. The properties of an ultra-high purity glass are also found to be identical. The origin of the systematic deviation reported in the literature for germanium selenide glasses is therefore still unknown, but the present results demonstrate that homogeneity or dryness does not have a significant contribution in contrast to previous suggestions. The implications of glass homogeneity for technological applications and industrial production are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monolithic aerogel-like alumina was synthesized via the accumulation of mesoporous hollow microspheres through an epoxide-driven sol–gel method. The addition of propylene oxide to the solution controls the gelation process, while the aging time and H 2 O/ethanol molar ratio in the initial component determine the morphology of the gel. The bulk density of the as-prepared sample was 0.133 g/cm 3 , and the BET surface area was 505.6 m 2 /g, which were very close to the values for the common alumina aerogel synthesized through the supercritical drying method. The microstructural evolution of the aerogel-like material as a function of aging time was carefully studied by SEM and TEM. The transition from solid particles to urchin-like mesoporous hollow microspheres can be explained as a self-templating process according to the Ostwald ripening mechanism. In addition, the samples were heat treated to 800 °C, 1000 °C and 1200 °C for 2 h. With an increase of the heat treatment temperature, the crystalline phases of the aerogel-like alumina varied from γ-phase alumina to θ-phase alumina. The microstructures as well as the physical properties, such as the thermal conductivity and elastic modulus, of samples heat-treated at different temperatures were also measured and revealed that the samples exhibited excellent stability against high temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel oxynitride glass–ceramics with tremendously improved quantum yield and adjustable color coordinates were prepared with the conventional melt-and-quench method and subsequent annealing heat treatment. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed CaAl 2 Si 2 O 8 and Y 20 N 4 Si 12 O 48 crystalline phases were homogenously precipitated in the glass matrix. The optical absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectrum measurements showed that a large portion of Eu 3 + ions were reduced into Eu 2 + which were crystallized into CaAl 2 Si 2 O 8 phase during the heat treatment by substituting Ca 2 + ions in them. Emission spectra evidently show that Eu 2 + and Eu 3 + ions were preferentially incorporated in CaAl 2 Si 2 O 8 and Y 20 N 4 Si 12 O 48 crystalline phases, respectively. This assignment was further supported by cation ionic radii and local charge balances, as well as defect chemistry considerations. The total emission intensity including both Eu 2 + and Eu 3 + ions was enhanced with increasing the annealing temperature, due to the conversion of Eu 3 + to Eu 2 + and the enhanced quantum efficiency of Eu 3 + in the crystalline phase as compared to the glass matrix. As a result, the quantum yields (QYs) of the glass–ceramics were also enhanced significantly from 2.07% (the precursor glass) up to 43.33% (the maximum of the glass–ceramics). The emission ratio of Eu 2 + /Eu 3 + changed from < 1.0 to > 4.0, which led this novel glass–ceramics with adjustable color coordinates ranging from red to blue controlled by varying the annealing temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Oxyfluoride glass comprising Yb3+ ions and Ag nanoclusters was prepared via a melt-quenching method. The molecule-like Ag clusters (ML-Ag) in the glass displayed broad absorption and emission bands in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible spectral regions, respectively. The luminescence quantum yield (QY) was determined to be higher than 90%. We observed energy transfer from ML-Ag nanoclusters to Yb3+ ions as evidenced by time resolved luminescence spectra, which resulted in a four-fold enhancement in NIR emission of Yb3+. The luminescence enhancement effect described here would be applied to boost the efficiency of solar cells by converting high energy UV photons into NIR photons that better match the absorption of photovoltaic devices. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Chalcogenide glasses are amatchlessmaterial as far as mid-infrared (IR) applications are concerned. They transmit light typically from 2 to 12 µm and even as far as 20 µm depending on their composition, and numerous glass compositions can be designed for optical fibers. One of the most promising applications of these fibers consists in implementing fiber evanescent wave spectroscopy, which enables detection of the mid-IR signature of most biomolecules. The principles of fiber evanescent wave spectroscopy are recalled together with the benefit of using selenide glass to carry out this spectroscopy. Then, two large-scale studies in recent years in medicine and food safety are exposed. To conclude, the future strategy is presented. It focuses on the development of rare earth-doped fibers used as mid-IR sources on one hand and tellurium-based glasses to shift the limit of detection toward longer wavelength on the other hand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

● Bio-hybrid consisting of living cells and self-assembled bio-FeS was developed;. ● The cells drive efficient regeneration of bio-FeS for enhanced Cr reduction;. ● Bio-FeS shell serves as a protective layer to improve the bacterial Cr tolerance;. ● Bio-FeS forms a transmembrane electron channel to enhance Cr reduction;. ● The bio-hybrid is efficient for cyclic treatment real electroplating wastewater. Biogenic ferrous sulfide nanoparticles (bio-FeS) as low-cost and green-synthesized nanomaterial are promising for heavy metals removal, but the need for complicated extraction, storage processes and the production of iron sludge still restrict their practical application. Here, a self-regenerable bio-hybrid consisting of bacterial cells and self-assembled bio-FeS was developed to efficiently remove chromium (Cr(VI)). A dense layer of bio-FeS was distributed on the cell surface and in the periplasmic space of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, endowing the bacterium with good Cr(VI) tolerance and unusual activity for bio-FeS-mediated Cr(VI) reduction. An artificial transmembrane electron channel was constituted by the bio-FeS to facilitate extracellular electron pumping, enabling efficient regeneration of extracellular bio-FeS for continuous Cr(VI) reduction. The bio-hybrid maintained high activity within three consecutive treatment-regeneration cycles for treating both simulated Cr(VI)-containing wastewater (50 mg/L) and real electroplating wastewater. Importantly, its activity can be facilely and fully restored through bio-FeS re-synthesis or regeneration with replenished fresh bacteria. Overall, the bio-hybrid merges the self-regeneration ability of bacteria with high activity of bio-FeS , opening a promising new avenue for sustainable treatment of heavy metal- containing wastewater. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Eu2+/Tb3+/Eu3+ co-doped fluorosilicate glass ceramics containing SrLaF5 nanocrystals were prepared. XRD results showed the rare earth ions were enriched into the precipitated nanophase. It deduced efficient energy transfers (ET) from Eu2+ to Tb3+ and Eu3+ and intense warm white luminescence of the glass ceramics. Comparing the glass, the luminescence quantum yield (QY) of the glass ceramics was enlarged by about 3 times. That demonstrated the potential WLED application of the present glass ceramics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Fig. 2. FESEM profiles of hierarchically nanostructured TiO 2 grown at 140 °C with different MCC concentration (a) sample 1 (b) sample 2 (c) and (d) sample 3. • The TiO 2 materials were fabricated through a simple hydrothermal process. • The TiO 2 materials have highly visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The enhanced photocatalytic activity is attributed to the hierarchical structures. Efficient TiO 2 photocatalysts with hierarchical structures are fabricated using cellulose as the template through hydrothermal process. The structure, surface morphology, mesoporous characteristics, and the high photocatalytic activities of the as-prepared samples are studied. The TiO 2 photocatalysts are hierarchical shape, anatase phase, and higher specific surface area with small pore size. The photocatalytic activities of the hierarchically structured TiO 2 materials are evaluated by degradating methylene blue (MB) under light irradiation. The synthesized TiO 2 materials exhibited slightly higher photocatalytic activities than commercial photocatalyst Degussa P25. In addition, no obvious activity of the hierarchically structured TiO 2 is decreased after 3 cycles. The high photocatalytic activity is attributed to higher surface area and the unique structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Coagulation/co-catalytic membrane system integrated coagulation, filtration and AOP. • Fe3+ served as both the coagulant for DOM removal and PMS activator. • MoS 2 in catalytic membrane accelerate the redox cycling of Fe species. • Surface-bound radicals enable efficient BPA removal and in-situ membrane cleaning. • The system showed stable performance during 53 h treatment of WWTP effluent. Low-pressure catalytic membranes allow efficient rejection of particulates and simultaneously removing organics pollutant in water, but the accumulation of dissolved organic matters (DOM) on membrane surface, which cover the catalytic sites and cause membrane fouling, challenges their stable operation in practical wastewater treatment. Here we propose a ferric salt-based coagulation/co-catalytic membrane integrated system that can effectively mitigate the detrimental effects of DOM. Ferric salt (Fe3+) serving both as a DOM coagulant to lower the membrane fouling and as a co-catalyst with the membrane-embedded MoS 2 nanosheets to drive perxymonosulfate (PMS) activation and pollutant degradation. The membrane functionalized with 2H-phased MoS 2 nanosheets showed improved hydrophilicity and fouling resistance relative to the blank polysulfone membrane. Attributed to the DOM coagulation and co-catalytic generation of surface-bound radicals for decontamination at membrane surface, the catalytic membrane/PMS/ Fe3+ system showed much less membrane fouling and 2.6 times higher pollutant degradation rate in wastewater treatment than the catalytic membrane alone. Our work imply a great potential of coagulation/co-catalytic membrane integrated system for water purification application. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Transformation pathway of phenol in the PMS/chloride system was pH-dependent. • PMS-Cl− interactions at acidic pH resulted in formation of reactive chlorine species. • Phenol underwent chlorination and mineralization at acid and alkaline pHs respective. • 1O 2 was responsible for the efficient phenol degradation at neutral to alkaline pHs. Abstract The formation of halogenated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during organic pollutants degradation in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) has raised growing concerns globally. However, the detailed roles of chlorine ions (Cl−) in pollutant degradation by peroxymonosulfate (PMS) alone remain controversial so far. Here, we shed light on the PMS-Cl−-phenol interactions and revealed a previously overlooked pH-dependent phenol transformation pathway. At acidic pH, Cl− significantly accelerated the phenol removal. The Cl−-PMS reaction resulted in abundant reactive chlorine species, which attacked phenol to form 4-chlorophenol and 2, 4-dichlorophenol as the main transformation products. In contrast, the impact of Cl− became negligible at alkaline pH. Raising the pH severely suppressed the phenol chlorination and significantly stimulated generation of singlet oxygen (1O 2) for degradation of phenol and the minor formed chlorophenols. The 1O 2 was resulted from a combined effect of PMS self-decomposition and PMS-benzoquinone interaction at alkaline pH. Our results imply a previously-underestimated impact of Cl− on phenolic compounds degradation in PMS-based AOPs and underscore a potential risk of chlorinated DBPs formation under environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Pt/rGO/PDA@ITO composite of Pt nanoparticles (NPs), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and polydopamine (PDA) has been obtained on indium tin oxide glass (ITO). Firstly, a rGO/PDA@ITO composite of rGO and PDA on ITO was formed by immersing ITO into a dopamine solution at room temperature and then a graphene oxide (GO) suspension solution in a water bath at 60 °C for 3 h. Ag NPs were then deposited on the rGO/PDA@ITO surface by immersing rGO/PDA@ITO in an AgNO3 aqueous solution with the aid of ascorbic acid. Finally, Pt/rGO/PDA@ITO was obtained by immersing Ag/rGO/PDA@ITO in a platinum tetrachloride solution in the presence of ascorbic acid. Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the Pt NPs has been found at 260 nm from UV-visible spectra. Cyclic voltammetry curves of Pt/rGO/PDA@ITO and UV absorption peaks of the Pt NPs implied that the sample with the strongest LSPR is the optimal electrocatalyst for methanol oxidation. Cyclic voltammetry of Pt/rGO/PDA@ITO showed that the ratio of current intensity between the forward scan and reverse scan peaks (If/Ib) was 1.768, indicating the remarkable anti-poison property of Pt/rGO/PDA@ITO as an electrocatalyst. Its electrochemical active surface area can reach 2.60 m2 g−1 at a scan rate of 50 mV s−1. It was found that the current decreased only 38.7% after 200 cycles. The better stability also confirmed the superior tolerance of carbon monoxide and catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durable Ag-Fe 3 O 4 /Fe superhydrophobic surface (SHS) with dendritic structures on the galvanic sheet was obtained by chemical etching, deposition and following annealing process. The promising SHS showed fine superhydrophobicity having the water contact angle of 165° and dynamic sliding angle of 2°. Experimental results showed that the obtained SHS sample has excellent properties of anti-corrosion, catalysis, anti-icing, rolling-off and self-cleaning. The conditions of etching, chemical immersion, and annealing to obtain SHS were investigated. Chemical stability and durability of SHS were investigated via storage in air for ten months. The SHS as a catalyst showed long-term stability, catalytic activity, and reusability, as compared to the substrate of the un-annealed surface. It is an effortless and cheap method to fabricate SHS on the galvanic sheet for industrial applications. The SHS has a potential utilization in a diverse range of bio-medicines, chemistry, microfluidics fields, and electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, on a zinc substrate, a superhydrophobic Co5Zn21 alloy surface with a nanometer needle structure was fabricated by immersing processed Zn sheets perpendicularly into a cobalt(ii) nitrate aqueous solution followed by the annealing treatment. This alloy surface exhibited not only outstanding superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 160° but also excellent mechanical durability and corrosion resistance. The morphology and chemical composition of the superhydrophobic surface (SHS) were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The corrosion resistance of the samples was characterized via polarization, Nyquist, and bode modulus plots. The SHS endures mechanical stretch for more than 800 mm of abrasion using sandpaper with different grit sizes (P1200, P800, and P400) and shows abrasion resistance. When the superhydrophobic surface lost its superhydrophobicity after a long-term damage, the superhydrophobicity could be easily regenerated again by immersion and annealing treatment. The surface after repair can still maintain its superhydrophobicity after anti-friction, anti-ice, and UV irradiation tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinel-type CoMn 2 O 4 materials are promising catalyst for heterogeneous activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS), but the catalytic activity still need considerable improvements for practical environmental application and the underlying Co-Mn synergy is unclear. In this work, we synthesized CoMn 2 O 4 microplates by using CoMn 2 -perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic dianhydride (ptcda) metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as the precursor. The resulting material showed significantly higher catalytic activity for the PMS activation and sulfanilamide (SA) degradation than the CoMn 2 O 4 obtained by conventional solvothermal synthesis methods, due to its much higher specific surface area and abundant surface hydroxyl groups as the active sites. In addition, the Co-Mn synergy in the synthesized material for the efficient heterogeneous catalysis was elucidated. The catalyst stability was also evaluated. Our work may lay the foundation for optimized design of highly-efficient heterogeneous catalyst for environmental application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A textured flower-like cobalt superhydrophobic surface (SHS) with a water contact angle of 160° and a sliding angle of less than 1° was fabricated on aluminum substrate by immersing the processed aluminum sheets perpendicularly into cobalt (II) nitrate aqueous solution and followed by annealing treatment. The morphology and chemical composition of the SHS were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The corrosion resistance of the samples was characterized via polarization, Nyquist and bode modulus plots. The photocatalysis of samples was also studied by catalytic degradation of methyl orange under a UV lamp (λ = 365 nm) with a light intensity of 8 W. The cobalt superhydrophobic sample not only exhibited excellent catalytic properties, but also substantially improved the corrosion resistance of aluminum substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to regulations on bisphenol A (BPA) in many countries, a variety of bisphenol analogues are being widely manufactured and applied. However, there is a big knowledge gap on bioaccumulation and biomagnification of these emerging bisphenols in aquatic organisms. The bioaccumulation and magnification of nine bisphenol analogues in aquatic organisms at different trophic levels collected from Taihu Lake, China, were evaluated. The total concentrations of the nine bisphenols in the lake waters were in the range of 49.7–3480 ng/L (mean, 389 ng/L). BPA, bisphenol AF (BPAF) and bisphenol S (BPS) were the most predominant analogues in the water. The mean natural logarithm bioaccumulation factor (log BAFs) of BPAF, bisphenol C (BPC), bisphenol Z (BPZ) and bisphenol E (BPE) were greater than BPA, and there was a significantly positive correlation between log BAFs of the biphenols and their octanol-water partition coefficients (log K ow ). The trophic magnification factors of BPAF, BPC and BPZ were 2.52, 2.69 and 1.71, respectively, suggesting that they had the potential to biomagnify in the food web. The results of this study call for further investigations on risk assessment of these emerging pollutants in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A textured ice edge-like Ir-ZnO/Zn superhydrophobic surface (SHS) with a water contact angle of 169° and a sliding angle of less than 1° was fabricated on zinc substrates via immersing the processed zinc sheet perpendicularly into iridium (III) chloride aqueous solution and annealing treatment. The morphology and chemical composition of the resulted SHS were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS). The Ir-ZnO/Zn SHS exhibited properties of lasting stability, excellent self-cleaning ability, superior corrosion resistance, super buoyancy force as well as catalyzer. The super buoyancy force of the resulted sample is 6.14 times that of zinc sheet. The Ir-ZnO/Zn SHS exhibited good catalytic activity with a full degradation of methyl orange within 80 min under an ultraviolet (UV) lamp with a light intensity of 8 W. Moreover, the Ir-ZnO/Zn SHS exhibited a good stability up to 3 recycles without a significant loss of its catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A durable superhydrophobic tin surface with a water contact angle of 170° and a sliding angle of < 1° was fabricated on copper substrate via electrodeposition under magnetic stirring and followed by annealing treatment at 180 °C for 60 min. The resulting superhydrophobic tin surfaces shows a porous tremella-like morphology and the water drop can fully bounce as a balloon on such a surface, exhibiting excellent non-sticking property. The as-prepared superhydrophobic tin surfaces also display excellent properties of anticorrosion, self-cleaning, long-term stability and durability. The influences of magnetic stirring and electrodeposition time on the wetting properties were also investigated to understand the formation mechanism of the superhydrophobic tin surfaces. This sufficiently simple and inexpensive method may offer an effective strategy for fabricating superhydrophobic surfaces on various conductive engineering materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-assembled bio-hybrids with biogenic ferrous sulfide nanoparticles (bio-FeS) on the cell surface are attractive for reduction of toxic heavy metals due to higher activity than bare bacteria, but they still suffer from slow synthesis and regeneration of bio-FeS and bacterial activity decay for removal of high-concentration heavy metals. A further optimization of the bio-FeS synthesis process and properties is of vital importance to address this challenge. Herein, we present a simple pH-regulation strategy to enhance bio-FeS synthesis and elucidated the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Slightly raising the pH from 7.4 to 8.3 led to 1.5-fold higher sulfide generation rate due to upregulated expression of thiosulfate reduction-related genes, and triggered the formation of fine-sized bio-FeS (29.4 ± 6.1 nm). The resulting bio-hybrid exhibited significantly improved extracellular reduction activity and was successfully used for treatment of high-concentration chromium -containing wastewater (Cr(VI), 80 mg/L) at satisfactory efficiency and stability. Its feasibility for bio-augmented treatment of real Cr(VI)-rich electroplating wastewater was also demonstrated, showing no obvious activity decline during 7-day operation. Overall, our work provides new insights into the environmental-responses of bio-hybrid self-assembly process, and may have important implications for optimized application of bio-hybrid for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation. [Display omitted] • Bio-FeS synthesis was accelerated by raising the pH from 7.4 to 8.3. • Expression of thiosulfate reduction related genes was upregulated at raised pH. • High-activity bio-hybrid for Cr(VI) removal was obtained at weak alkaline pH. • The bio-hybrid exhibited superior stability in cyclic Cr(VI) removal. • The system was used for bio-augmented treatment of electroplating wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finite‐difference methods (FDMs) suffer from the notorious numerical dispersion problem, especially when large simulation time steps and wideband pulses are involved. In this Letter, an approach to obtain optimised numerical dispersion for FDMs based on the adaptive wind driven optimisation (AWDO) is proposed. Numerical dispersion errors are analysed and minimised through the AWDO, then the authors could obtain the updating coefficients for the FDMs. The 2D case is exemplified to demonstrate the procedures in detail. Serval numerical experiments are carried out to validate the accuracy of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroatom-doped porous carbon has attracted enormous attention in fabricating high-performance supercapacitors. However, designing heteroatoms containing carbon materials through an eco-friendly and cost-effective route remains challenging. In this work, N-O-S self-doped porous carbon materials are prepared from semi-coking wastewater-based phenolic resin (SWPR) via a simple Na 2 CO 3 activation strategy. The abundant phenols, NH 4 +, and SO 4 2- in semi-coking wastewater endows the versatile N, O, and S doping in porous carbon material, remarkably enhancing its conductivity. The optimal SWPR-700–2.5 porous carbon material is obtained at an activation temperature of 700 °C and a mass ratio of 2.5:1 for SWPR: Na 2 CO 3. The symmetrical supercapacitor is assembled with SWPR-700–2.5, exhibiting a high specific capacitance of 170.5 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, with a high energy density of 5.92 Wh kg−1 at 124.9 W kg−1. After 10,000 cycles, the Coulombic efficiency and capacity retention are 100% and 99.4%, respectively, at a current density of 20 A g−1. The excellent performance of SWPR-700–2.5 based capacitor is attributed to the porous structure with a large specific surface area (718 m2 g−1) and abundant N-O-S self-doping (2.739 at% N, 8.627 at% O and 1.378 at% S). This study provides a simple route to prepare N-O-S self-doped porous carbon for supercapacitors and pushes forward the advancement of semi-coking wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ag/Eu singly-doped and co-doped glasses were prepared with a melt-quenching method. Silver species are identified as Ag + , molecule-like Ag nano-clusters (Ag NCs) and Ag nano-particles (Ag NPs) with surface plasmonic resonance (SPR) behaviors in the Ag-doped glasses (GAg and GAgEu) by absorption and photoluminescence spectra. Europium ions, including Eu 2 + and Eu 3 + , also existed in the Eu-doped glasses (GEu and GAgEu). The formation of Ag NCs was found to be effectively promoted by an accompanied oxidation of Eu 2 + . This significantly enhances the super-broad visible emission of the Ag/Eu co-doped glass (GAgEu) by about 8 times than the Ag-doped glass (GAg). Owing to energy transfer from silver species (Ag + and Ag NCs) to Eu 3 + , the UV excitation of the Eu 3 + red emission was enhanced and extended in 240 nm – 400 nm region. Combining the bluish white emission of Ag NCs and the red emission of Eu 3 + , the Ag/Eu co-doped glass (GAgEu) emits pure white light with a low color temperature (CCT) and a high color rendering index (CRI), thus can be a candidate for LED illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life-history theory assumes that the fitness costs of immunity may have negative effects on reproductive success. Similarly, the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis is based on findings that testosterone (T) has immunosuppressive effects, although the basis of this hypothesis has recently been challenged. As much of the work examining the relationship between T levels and immune function has been carried out in captive-housed species, these results may not accurately reflect the situation of animals living in natural environments. To better understand the relationship between plasma T levels and immune function, studies focusing on free-living animals are needed. A previous study by our group determined the changes in both baseline and stress-induced T levels in free-living Eurasian Tree Sparrows ( Passer montanus) across different annual cycle stages. In this study, we further report the phytohaemagglutinin skin-swelling (PHA) immune response in this multi-brooded species during different breeding sub-stages, and then determine the relationships between the PHA response and both baseline and stress-induced T levels. Our results show that the PHA response varied across the different sub-stages and differed significantly between the first and second brood stage. Furthermore, T levels in male Tree Sparrows are positively correlated with the PHA response during the breeding season, whereas this relationship is negative in females, suggesting that the biological function of T differs between the sexes. Therefore, our results suggest that free-living animals have evolved the ability to orchestrate trade-offs between reproduction and immune functions based on changes in physiology and the environment, which should provide further opportunities to study the flexibility and plasticity of physiological and ecological adaptations in natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Two compounds containing one-dimensional polyanionic chains of monosubstituted Keggin clusters were synthesized. [•] There are two kinds of nanosized polyanionic clusters to simultaneously exist in the one crystal framework. [•] The photocatalytic activities of both complexes for methylene blue (MB) degradation under UV were explored. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Ce3+ and Dy3+ co-doped oxyfluoride glasses and glass ceramics containing CeOF or CeF3 nanocrystals have been prepared in the reducing atmosphere. The crystallinity increased significantly with the Ce3+ concentration, while the crystal size of nanocrystals is mainly influenced by the annealing temperatures. The glasses and glass ceramics emitted white light, deriving from a combination of the Ce3+ blue and the Dy3+ yellow light. The emission intensity and CIE chromaticity coordinates of the Ce3+ and Dy3+ co-doped glasses can be tuned by adjusting the ratio of Ce3+/Dy3+ concentration or the annealing temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Anodic H 2 S reduction was coupled with cathodic CO 2 reduction. • Anodic reaction was mediated by Fe2+ to produce pure element sulfur particles. • CO 2 reduction at methanogenic biocathode was mediated by electrolytic H 2. • High biogas upgrading level and stability was achieved in continuous operation. In this work, a single microbial electrochemical system was developed for multiple goals simultaneously – CO 2 reduction, biogas purification, upgrading and sulfur recovery. This system consists of a methanogen-inoculated biocathode for CO 2 reduction and a ferrous ion (Fe2+)-mediated abiotic anode for hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) oxidation. In the cathodic chamber, methane production rate of 20.6 ± 1.0 μmol·h−1 and high upgrading level (up to 98.3% methane content) were achieved. In the anodic chamber, H 2 S was completely removed and selectively converted into elemental sulfur particles. The system showed stable performance during continuous operation for treating both pure CO 2 and mixed gases, with a cathodic coulombic efficiency of up to 85.2%. This simple system holds a great potential for practical application for biogas upgrading and sulfur recovery from waste water/gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]