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Procrastination (the intentional delay of action despite knowing that one will be worse off due to the delay) is a widespread phenomenon with various negative consequences, especially among adolescents. Based on relevant evidence, this study examined the relation between negative life events and adolescents' procrastination, as well as the underlying mechanisms—specifically, the effects of negative emotions and rumination, as well as the potential gender differences. A total of 780 adolescents (Mage = 12.92 years old; 52.2% females) were recruited to complete a set of questionnaires assessing negative life events, procrastination, depression-anxiety-stress symptoms and rumination. Results showed that negative life events were positively associated with procrastination, and negative emotions significantly mediated the relation; rumination played a moderating role in this mediation model, specifically, both the direct and indirect effects in this mediation model were stronger for adolescents with higher rumination. Besides this, gender differences in this moderated mediation model were also found—the indirect effect of negative emotions was stronger for girls, and this mediating effect could be moderated by rumination only for boys. These results expanded our understanding of how negative life events influence procrastination and when (or for whom) negative life events influence procrastination the most. The findings also have significant implications for the prevention and intervention of adolescents' procrastination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] A series of Sm-Mn perovskite@mullite composites with different amounts of acid sites were successfully synthesized by regulating the level of in situ etched-surface modification. X-ray diffraction (XRD) test showed that the crystal structure of catalyst gradually changed from perovskite to perovskite@mullite composites and mullite. The characterization of temperature programmed desorption with ammonia (NH 3 -TPD) confirmed the acid sites on the surface of catalyst can be deployed by the in-situ modification. The temperature-programmed reduction with hydrogen (H 2 -TPR), and N 2 adsorption–desorption showed that the surface modification also increased the reducibility, surface area, and mesoporosity of catalyst. The catalytic activities were compared by a long-term catalytic oxidation of chlorobenzene evaluation for 20 h of uninterrupted reaction at a relatively low temperature of 300 °C, and the Sm-Mn perovskite@mullite composite (SMPM-1.2) possessed the best catalytic stability. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement determined that the high ratios of lattice oxygen and tetravalent manganese did not improve the stability of catalyst in the catalytic oxidation of chlorobenzene, but the activities trends of samples were consistent with the change of surface (Mn4++Mn3+)/Mn2+ ratios. Meanwhile, the catalytic experiments for benzene, toluene, o-xylene and acetone showed that the as-prepared catalyst was also suitable for the efficient removal of the different types of VOCs. This work supplied a method for the further development of high activity catalysts for the removal of VOCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Bi-M/BMO S-scheme heterostructures were fabricated. • The heterostructures showed excellent photocatalytic CO 2 reduction and stability. • Bi SPR effect promoted the separation of photon-generated carries dramatically. • The S-scheme electron transport effectively suppressed the photocorrosion. Low redox ability and severe photocorrosion limit the photocatalytic activity of metal sulfides. Herein, step-scheme (S-scheme) heterojunction composited by diethylenetriamine (DETA) ammoniated MnS (α-MnS) and Bi 2 MoO 6 with Bi surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was successfully fabricated (Bi-5 %M/BMO). This special electron transport structure effectively suppresses the photocorrosion of α-MnS and makes photocatalysts with high redox ability. DETA was protonated to form positively charged ammonium ions and they are easy to combine with acid gas CO 2 , reducing the activation energy of CO 2 , building an efficient catalytic reaction system, and improving CO 2 reduction efficiency. The CO evolution rate of Bi-5 %M/BMO (61.11 μmol g-1h−1) is 2.42, 7.89 and 5.01 times greater than that of 5 %M/BMO, pure α-MnS hollow spheres and Bi 2 MoO 6 , respectively. This indicates that Bi SPR effect can promote the separation of photon-generated electron-hole pairs dramatically. The ammoniated S-scheme heterostructure decorated with the SPR effect may provide a new perspective to design heterojunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During gastrulation, the pluripotent epiblast self-organizes into the 3 germ layers—endoderm, mesoderm and ectoderm, which eventually form the entire embryo. Decades of research in the mouse embryo have revealed that a signaling cascade involving the Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP), WNT, and NODAL pathways is necessary for gastrulation. In vivo, WNT and NODAL ligands are expressed near the site of gastrulation in the posterior of the embryo, and knockout of these ligands leads to a failure to gastrulate. These data have led to the prevailing view that a signaling gradient in WNT and NODAL underlies patterning during gastrulation; however, the activities of these pathways in space and time have never been directly observed. In this study, we quantify BMP, WNT, and NODAL signaling dynamics in an in vitro model of human gastrulation. Our data suggest that BMP signaling initiates waves of WNT and NODAL signaling activity that move toward the colony center at a constant rate. Using a simple mathematical model, we show that this wave-like behavior is inconsistent with a reaction-diffusion–based Turing system, indicating that there is no stable signaling gradient of WNT/NODAL. Instead, the final signaling state is homogeneous, and spatial differences arise only from boundary effects. We further show that the durations of WNT and NODAL signaling control mesoderm differentiation, while the duration of BMP signaling controls differentiation of CDX2-positive extra-embryonic cells. The identity of these extra-embryonic cells has been controversial, and we use RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to obtain their transcriptomes and show that they closely resemble human trophoblast cells in vivo. The domain of BMP signaling is identical to the domain of differentiation of these trophoblast-like cells; however, neither WNT nor NODAL forms a spatial pattern that maps directly to the mesodermal region, suggesting that mesoderm differentiation is controlled dynamically by the combinatorial effect of multiple signals. We synthesize our data into a mathematical model that accurately recapitulates signaling dynamics and predicts cell fate patterning upon chemical and physical perturbations. Taken together, our study shows that the dynamics of signaling events in the BMP, WNT, and NODAL cascade in the absence of a stable signaling gradient control fate patterning of human gastruloids. A self-organizing in vitro model of cell fate decisions during human gastrulation reveals that patterning is controlled by combinatorial dynamics of multiple signaling pathways, rather than by stable gradients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) may be a "Trojan Horse" for some waterborne diseases caused by opportunistic pathogens (OPs). In this study, two simulated DWDS inoculated with groundwater were treated with chlorine (Cl 2) and ultraviolet/chlorine (UV/Cl 2) respectively to compare their effects on the OPs distributed in four different phases (bulk water, biofilms, corrosion products, and loose deposits) of DWDS. 16S rRNA genes sequencing and qPCR were used to profile microbial community and quantify target genes of OPs, respectively. Results showed that UV/Cl 2 was more effective than single Cl 2 to control the regrowth of OPs in the water with the same residual chlorine concentration. However, the OPs inhabiting the biofilms, corrosion products, and loose deposits seemed to be tolerant to UV/Cl 2 and Cl 2 , demonstrating that OPs residing in these phases were resistant to the disinfection processes. Some significant microbial correlations between OPs and Acanthamoeba were found by Spearman correlative analysis (p < 0.05), demonstrating that the ecological interactions may exist in the DWDS. 16S rRNA genes sequencing of water samples revealed a significant different microbial community structure between UV/Cl 2 and Cl 2. This study may give some implications for controlling the OPs in the DWDS disinfected with UV/Cl 2. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Opportunistic pathogens in the water, biofilms, corrosion products, and loose deposits of DWDS were quantified respectively. • UV/free chlorine controlled the opportunistic pathogens in water more efficiently than single chlorine. • Opportunistic pathogens in the biofilms, corrosion products and loose deposits were tolerant to UV/free chlorine. • Potential microbial correlations existed between the target opportunistic pathogens. • Apparent shift of bacterial community was captured in both ARs disinfected with UV/free chlorine and chlorine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, qPCR was used to quantify opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens (OPPPs) and free-living amoebae in 11 tap water samples collected over four seasons from a city in northern China. Results demonstrated that the average numbers of gene copies of Legionella spp. and Mycobacterium spp. were significantly higher than those of Aeromonas spp. (p < 0.05). Legionella spp. and Mycobacterium spp. were 100% (44/44) positively detected while P. aeruginosa and Aeromonas spp. were 79.54% (35/44) and 77.27% (34/44) positively detected. Legionella pneumophila was only detected in 4 samples (4/44), demonstrating its occasional occurrence. No Mycobacterium avium or Naegleria fowleri was detected in any of the samples. The average gene copy numbers of target OPPPs were the highest in summer, suggesting seasonal prevalence of OPPPs. Average gene copy numbers of OPPPs in the taps of low-use-frequency were higher than in taps of high-use-frequency, but the difference was not significant for some OPPPs (p > 0.05). Moderate negative correlations between the chlorine concentration and the gene copy numbers of OPPPs were observed by Spearman analysis (r s ranged from − 0.311 to − 0.710, p < 0.05). However, no significant correlations existed between OPPPs and AOC, BDOC, or turbidity. Moderate positive correlations were observed between the target microorganisms, especially for Acanthamoeba spp., through Spearman analysis (p < 0.05). Based on our studies, it is proposed that disinfectant concentration, season, taps with different-use frequency, OPPP species, and potential microbial correlations should be considered for control of OPPPs in tap water. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Simulated drinking water distribution system (DWDS) treated with O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 (ozone-biological activated carbon-chlorine) was constructed to study its effects on the regrowth of five typical opportunistic pathogens (OPs). It was found that O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 could significantly reduce the regrowth of target OPs in the effluents of DWDS compared with Cl 2 and O 3 -Cl 2 with the same residual chlorine levels. However, the effect of O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 on the average numbers of target OPs gene markers in the biofilms of DWDS was not apparent, suggesting that OPs in the biofilms of DWDS were tolerant to the upstream disinfection process. The quantification of target OPs in the BAC-filter column demonstrated that OPs decreased with the increase of depth, which was likely due to the organic nutrient gradient and microbial competition inside the BAC-filter. Increase in the ozone dose could further reduce the OPs at the bottom of the BAC-filter. Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated that some significant correlations existed between target microorganisms, suggesting potential microbial ecological relationships. Overall, our results demonstrated that the BAC-filter may act as a "battlefield" suppressing the OPs through microbial competition. O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 could be an effective multi-barrier process to suppress the proliferation of OPs in the bulk water of DWDS. However, OPs protected by the biofilms of DWDS should receive further attention because OPs may be detached and released from the biofilms. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • γ-MnO 2 /SmMnO 3 catalyst was prepared by an in situ etching method. • The catalyst showed superior activity for BETX removal at high WHSV and moisture. • The inner principle of VOCs oxidation was revealed by a dynamics investigation. • The strategy is low cost, scalable and efficient. Abstract γ-MnO 2 , SmMnO 3 , and γ-MnO 2 /SmMnO 3 catalysts were prepared by facile methods, wherein the SmMnO 3 (SMO) perovskite was synthesized through one-step calcination and the γ-MnO 2 /SmMnO 3 was formed by an in situ growth of γ-MnO 2 on the surface of SMO. These materials ware characterized by XRD, SEM-mapping, N 2 -adsorption, XPS and H 2 -TPR to investigate their textural properties. Compared with that of SMO and γ-MnO 2 , the γ-MnO 2 /SMO shows better performance for catalytic oxidation of aromatic VOCs in wet air (10 vol. %), which may be attributed to its higher surface molar ratio of lattice oxygen to adsorbed oxygen (O latt /O ads) and better low-temperature reducibility. Besides, for γ-MnO 2 /SMO catalyst, a successive oxidation route and the inner principle of BETX (benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and o-xylene) oxidation were also revealed via various tests and a comprehension of dynamics investigation. Meanwhile, the experiments under simulated realistic exhaust conditions displayed that the γ-MnO 2 /SmMnO 3 is also a good catalyst with high stability for aromatic VOCs oxidation, and fulfilled endurability to high humidity (20 vol.%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro stem cell models that replicate human gastrulation have been generated, but they lack the essential extraembryonic cells needed for embryonic development, morphogenesis, and patterning. Here, we describe a robust and efficient method that prompts human extended pluripotent stem cells to self-organize into embryo-like structures, termed peri-gastruloids, which encompass both embryonic (epiblast) and extraembryonic (hypoblast) tissues. Although peri-gastruloids are not viable due to the exclusion of trophoblasts, they recapitulate critical stages of human peri-gastrulation development, such as forming amniotic and yolk sac cavities, developing bilaminar and trilaminar embryonic discs, specifying primordial germ cells, initiating gastrulation, and undergoing early neurulation and organogenesis. Single-cell RNA-sequencing unveiled transcriptomic similarities between advanced human peri-gastruloids and primary peri-gastrulation cell types found in humans and non-human primates. This peri-gastruloid platform allows for further exploration beyond gastrulation and may potentially aid in the development of human fetal tissues for use in regenerative medicine. [Display omitted] • A robust method to generate an integrated model of human peri-gastrulation development • Peri-gastruloids encompass embryonic (epiblast) and extraembryonic (hypoblast) tissues • Peri-gastruloids model human post-implantation development into early organogenesis • scRNA-seq reveals transcriptomic similarity between peri-gastruloids and primate embryos A stem-cell-derived integrated embryo model recapitulates key post-implantation stages of human development into early organogenesis, including the formation of amniotic and yolk sac cavities, the development of bilaminar and trilaminar discs, the specification of primordial germ cells, the formation of the primitive streak, and gastrulation, as well as the initial stages of neurulation and organogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite-type oxide of SmMnO 3 sheet with mesoporous structures was successfully synthesized for the first time by a simple one-step calcination. Citric acid was utilized as the propellant for the construction of SmMnO 3 perovskite structure and the mesoporous formation. The characterization results showed that a large number of mesoporous were evenly distributed into the SmMnO 3 perovskites sheets by the effect of citric acid. The as-prepared catalyst showed superior catalytic activity and stability for toluene oxidation; the toluene conversion kept ca. 99.9% at 240 °C during the reaction of 36 h. This work could supply an impactful technique to prepare high catalytic activity of ABO 3 perovskites with mesoporous structure for the practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, ZnO nanoparticles decorated three-dimensional (3D) Ni@graphene (Ni@GE) composites with uniform size and magnetic separation properties were synthesized by a simple and scalable one-step sol–gel method. The photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, fourier-transform infrared spectra, field-emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, UV–vis diffusive reflectance spectra and photo luminescence. The results indicated the ZnO nanoparticles loaded on the outsides of the Ni@GE were no significant numbers of vacancies or apparent aggregation. Meanwhile, the introduction of 3D structured graphene material resulted in the better charge separation efficiency compared with that of the pure ZnO. More significantly, the as-prepared Ni@graphene-ZnO showed superior photocatalytic activity and stability for Cr(VI) reduction to Cr(III). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A magnetically separable Fe 3 O 4 @CuO-RGO (RGO: reduced graphene oxide) core-shell heterostructured photocatalysts were synthesized for the first time by low temperature hydrothermal method. This novel method enables simultaneously the decoration of Fe 3 O 4 @CuO spheres on both sides of graphene sheets as well as the reduction of graphene oxide. The hetero-photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectra, field-emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, UV–vis diffusive reflectance spectra, photo luminescence and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that the as-prepared Fe 3 O 4 @CuO-RGO composites possessed enlarged visible light adsorption range and enhanced charge separation efficiency compared with that of the pure CuO and Fe 3 O 4 @CuO. Also, the unique structure afforded Fe 3 O 4 @CuO-RGO desirable photocatalytic activity and stability for the degradation of methylene blue under visible-light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fe4+, Co3+, Ni3+ and Cu3+ are introduced into MnO 2 by ozone driving redox. • The first functional group adsorbed on the surface of catalyst is confirmed. • The internal relationship of structure and catalytic behavior is revealed. • The byproducts and degradation path for low-temperature oxidation are explored. A series of heteroatom-doped MnO 2 have been successfully synthesized by the ozone driving redox reaction, wherein the Fe, Co, Ni and Cu were directly introduced into MnO 2. It was inferred that the doped heteroatoms existed in the form of Fe2+, Fe3+, Fe4+, Co3+, Ni3+, Cu2+ and Cu3+ in MnO 2 by the characterization of XRD, XPS, Raman and HRTEM. Their catalytic activities of toluene oxidation were positively correlated with the molar ratios of (Mn2++Mn3+)/Mn4+, the proportion of adsorbed oxygen species and the low-temperature reducibility. The larger radius of high-valence Fe ions led to obvious structural distortion of MnO 2 , which brought about more active oxygen species on the surface of the most active Fe-MnO 2. According to BET and SEM characterization, the high specific surface area and nanostructure should contribute to the high activity of Fe-MnO 2. In addition, the in-situ DRIFTS confirmed that the first functional group adsorbed on the surface of Fe-MnO 2 was the methyl group, and thus toluene was oxidized to some carbonyl-containing species. TD/GC–MS detection showed that the organic compounds existed in the exhaust gas. Ultimately, the catalytic mechanism and the degradation of toluene oxidation were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel three-dimensional Ni@graphene-Cu composites were synthesized by a facile calcination method for the first time. The in-situ generated graphene played an important role in the successful fabrication of Ni@graphene-Cu that it acted both as an effective reductant to achieve the conversion of CuO to Cu nanoparticles (NPs) and as an ideal support to prevent the agglomeration of Cu NPs. The as-prepared Ni@graphene-Cu showed excellent catalytic activity for Cr(VI) reduction to Cr(III) at room temperature with formic acid as reductants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the process of impact between pedestrian's head and windshield (PVB laminated glass) in a pedestrian-vehicle collision accident under lower-speed condition, the effects of interfacial adhesion strength between glass and PVB layer on the crash energy absorption performance of windshield is studied by using finite element method. The results indicated that appropriate interfacial adhesion strength can enable windshield absorb more impact energy, and hence alleviate the injury of pedestrian's head, achieving the objective of pedestrian's life protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An analytical relationship between the ratio of hardness to reduced modulus H/E r and the geometry of a residual indent is established based on the theories of depth-sensing indentation. Various material parameters, including elastic parameters, recovery deformation and energy-dissipation capacity, are uniquely determined by the value of H/E r, so that they can be estimated from a residual indent trail. Thus, we are able to know what has happened in the material simply by analyzing or comparing residual trails on the material. The validity of this method has been confirmed by analyzing residual Vickers indents on quasi-plastic ceramic and brittle glass. In addition, it is demonstrated that the geometric constant ε in traditional nanoindentation theories is related to the proportional factor η through the exponent of unloading curve m, i.e., ε = m · η, where η is defined by h s = η ·(h m − h f). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

: PurposeTo determine the dose per fraction that could be used when gamma knife or linear accelerator–based stereotactic treatments are delivered in 2 or more fractions.: Methods and materialsThe linear-quadratic (LQ) model was used to calculate the dose per fraction for a multiple-fraction regimen which is biologically equivalent to a given single-fraction treatment. The results are summarized in lookup tables.: Results and conclusionsThe tables can be used by practicing clinicians as a guide in planning fractionated treatment. For the large doses used in typical stereotactic treatments and for small fraction numbers, the model is not very sensitive to the value of the α/β ratio in the LQ model. A simple rule of thumb is found that for two-fraction and three-fraction treatments the dose per fraction is roughly two-thirds and one-half of the single-fraction treatment dose, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are promising alternatives to lithium‐ion batteries with similar working principles, cell structures, and material systems. However, attaining long‐term stability and high‐capacity performance of SIBs at ultrahigh rates remains a significant challenge due to the large ionic radius and slow kinetic behavior of Na+. Herein, a novel robust anode with a dual‐biomimetic gradient hierarchical architecture is proposed and provide a simple strategy to fabricate this sulfur‐doped mesoporous carbon concave hollow sphere/Ti3C2Tx MXene (SCMX) anode. In addition, Cu2S nanoparticles are in situ embedded into the SCMX architecture by electrochemical induction during the cycling process to act as active sites, which enhances the rate performance and cycling stability. Relying on its hybrid architecture and in situ formed Cu2S, this SCMX anode can achieve high ion accessibility, rich active sites, rapid charge transfer, and favorable structure stability, as disclosed by in/ex situ characterizations. As a result, it exhibits high reversible capacity (745.6 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), ultrahigh‐rate capability (380.5 mAh g−1 at 50.0 A g−1), and long cycling stability (98.2% capacity retention after 10 000 cycles at 80.0 A g−1). This work is anticipated to accelerate the development of high‐performance SIBs and offer distinctive inspiration for the design of electrode structures/systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two commercially available water-equivalent solid phantom materials were evaluated for output calibration in both photon (6–15 MV) and electron (6–20 MeV) beams. The solid water 457 and virtual water materials have the same chemical composition but differ in manufacturing process and density. A Farmer-type ionization chamber was used for measuring the output of the photon beams at 5- and 10-cm depth and electron beams at maximum buildup depth in the solid phantoms and in natural water. The water-equivalency correction factor for the solid materials is defined as the ratio of the chamber reading in natural water to that in the solid at the same linear depth. For photon beams, the correction factor was found to be independent of depth and was 0.987 and 0.993 for 6- and 15-MV beams, respectively, for solid water. For virtual water, the corresponding correction factors were 0.993 and 0.998 for 6- and 15-MV beams, respectively. For electron beams, the correction factors ranged from 1.013 to 1.007 for energies of 6 to 20 MeV for both solid materials. This indicated that the water-equivalency of these materials is within ± 1.3%, making them suitable substitutes for natural water in both photon and electron beam output measurements over a wide energy range. These correction factors are slightly larger than the manufacturers'' advertised values (± 1.0% for solid water and ± 0.5% for virtual water). We suggest that these corrections are large enough in most cases and should be applied in the calculation of beam outputs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Porous Mn-based mullite SmMn 2 O 5 was synthesized by the in-situ dismutation of solid state Mn3+ in bulk SmMnO 3 perovskite to catalytic oxidation of benzene and chrolobenznen. The physicochemical property of catalyst was acquired by XRD, SEM, N 2 adsorption–desorption, XPS, O 2 -TPD and H 2 -TPR. Compared with that of bulk SmMnO 3 and bulk SmMn 2 O 5 , the porous SmMn 2 O 5 mullite (SmMn 2 O 5 -ID) displayed higher molar ratios of Mn4+/Mn3+ and O latt /O ads , and better active oxygen desorption capacity, reducibility and larger specific surface, which promoted the preferable low-temperature catalytic oxidation of VOC. The increase in the content of Mn4+ on the surface of the Sm-Mn mullite reduced the surface defects and increased the proportion of its surface lattice oxygen, thereby promoting the attack of VOC molecules by more lattice oxygen. Combined with the analysis of reactant intermediate for benzene oxidation by in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, the catalytic mechanism of the catalyst was also explored. Moreover, SmMn 2 O 5 -ID also showed the excellent stability and the superior removal of mixed VOCs with different concentration ratios. This finding provides an efficient and practical method for exploiting highly active Mn-based mullite with a high efficiency and stability for the purification of air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenylpropanoid glycosides (PPGs) are important bioactive polyphenolic compounds that are widely distributed in plants. In this paper, the inhibitory effects of four selected PPGs against trypsin were investigated. The interactions between these PPGs and trypsin were further investigated by multiple spectroscopic methods and molecular docking studies. The results showed that the binding of each of these PPGs to trypsin induced changes in the natural conformation of trypsin, which inhibited the enzyme in the following order: acteoside > syringalide A 3′-α- l -rhamnopyranoside > lipedoside A-I > osmanthuside B. The binding constant ( K a ) values followed the same trend. The hydrogen bond force played an important role in the interaction between each PPG and trypsin. Interestingly, the binding affinity and inhibitory effect increased as the number of phenolic hydroxyl groups increased. In addition, the effect of the phenolic hydroxyl group on the A ring had a greater effect than one on the B ring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impure ions in the precursor can cause the structural transition of prepared MnO 2 catalysts and influence their activity in toluene catalytic oxidation. Here, the effects of K+ and SO 4 2- on the catalytic activity of MnO 2 are examined. Removing absorbed SO 4 2- by repeating water washing facilitates the exposure of active sites on the surface of MnO 2. The temperature for toluene conversion reaches 90% (T 90) of catalysts decreases from 247 ºC to 238 ºC. While the loss of K+ during the water washing leads to the inferior performance of MnO 2. Re-impregnating of K+ can stimulate the generation of active oxygen species on the surface of catalysts (K/MnO 2), which showed elevated catalytic activity in toluene conversion (T 90 , 229 ºC). In addition, K/MnO 2 performs good stability for toluene combustion in long-term operation. Density Function Theory calculations reveal that the formation energy of oxygen vacancy and the adsorption energy of toluene on the surface of catalyst decrease from 6.996 eV and − 0.079 to 5.482 eV and − 0.468 eV as the introduction of K+, respectively. Our results provide a complete understanding of the effects of impurity ions on the performance of manganese oxide for catalytic oxidation of toluene. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction of ciprofloxacin chlorination products (CIP-CPs) with bacteria in drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs) was investigated. The piperazine ring of CIP was destroyed by chlorination. Among of CIP-CPs, by the bacterial role, 7.63% of the derivative with two carboxylic groups went through decarboxylation to form desethylene ciprofloxacin, and then loss of C 2 H 5 N group generated aniline compound. Furthermore, 12.3% of the aniline compound, 7.60% of chlorinated aniline compound and 1.35% of defluorinated product were bio-mineralized. Therefore, the chlorine and bacteria played synergistic effects on transformation of CIP-CPs in DWDSs, contributing to the obvious decrease of genotoxicity in effluents. Correspondingly, the TEQ 4-NQO decreased from 667 μg/L to 9.41 μg/L. However, compared with DWDSs without CIP-CPs, the relative abundance of mexA and qnrS increased 1-fold in effluents and the relative abundance of qnrA and qnrB increased 3-fold in biofilms in DWDSs with CIP-CPs. mexA and qnrS positively correlated with Hyphomicrobium , Sphingomonas and Novosphingobium (p < 0.05), while qnrA and qnrB positively correlated with Shewanella and Helicobacter (p < 0.05), indicating the increase of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) came from the growth of these bacterial genera by transformation of CIP-CPs in DWDSs. These results suggested that biotransformation of antibiotics might increase ARGs risk in DWDSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that investigated the effect of protein kinase C (PKC) zeta and protein kinase B (PKB) on actin remodeling and glucose transport in rat L6 muscle cells. It states that PKB phosphorylation on Ser473 and Thr308 was decreased by pseudosubstrate (PS). It concludes that PKCzeta locates upstream PKB in insulin signaling pathway and has a role in insulin-induced glucose transport through PKB in L6 muscle cells.

Series of α, β, γ, δ type MnO2 supported on LaMnO3 perovskite was developed by a one-pot synthesis route. Compared with α-MnO2, β-MnO2, γ-MnO2, δ-MnO2 and LaMnO3 oxides, all MnO2/LaMnO3 showed promotional catalytic performance for toluene degradation. Among them, α-MnO2/LaMnO3 holds the best active and mineralization efficiency. By the analysis of N2 adsorption-desorption, XPS and H2-TPR, it can be inferred that the improved activity should be ascribed to the higher proportion of lattice oxygen, better low-temperature reducibility and larger specific surface area. Besides, the byproducts from the low-temperature reaction of toluene oxidation were detected by a TD/GC-MS, confirming the presence of the intermediates. Combined with the in-situ DRIFTS, the catalytic degradation path of toluene oxidation has also been discussed in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When the part size is scaled down to micro-scale, the material consists of only a few grains and the material properties and deformation behaviors are quite different from the conventional ones in macro-scale. This paper focuses on the effect of grain size and heterogeneity on the mechanical behavior of foil rolling using a grain level finite element analysis in combination with a rate dependent crystal plasticity constitutive model. Voronoi tessellation has been applied to describe the polycrystalline aggregate. Based on a heterogeneity crystalline plasticity model identified for metal foil, simulations of rolling tests were performed for samples with different grain orientations and sizes. The simulation results have been validated by comparing with the experimental observations. It is predicted that detrimental effects on the mechanical performance will generate by reducing the number of grains through the foil thickness and changing the grain orientation sets. The simulations correctly reproduce the softening effect which has been experimentally characterized linked to decreases in the number of grains through the thickness. The analysis of the plasticity deformation mechanisms shows that the softening is due to surface grain effect which is discussed in terms of grain orientations, activity of slip systems and strengthening of interior grains versus weakening of surface grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A wire-in-tube Co 9 S 8 /C@C composite is constructed to realize fast and stable potassium storage performance. • The rate capability of WIT Co 9 S 8 /C@C composite outperforms most cobalt sulfide-based anodes reported so far for PIBs. • The internal carbon network engineering of WIT structure results in superior structural integrity and fast charge transportation. Hollow structured composites show great promising to accommodate the large volume fluctuation of high-capacity anodes with good structure integrity, while it still suffers from insufficient charge transportation due to the intrinsic low conductivity of anodes and the limited transport channels within hollow structure. Herein, conductive carbon networks are rationally constructed within hollow structure to realize both excellent structure stability and superior charge transportation. By encapsulating MOF-derived Co 9 S 8 /C wires into hollow carbon tubes, as-prepared wire-in-tube (WIT) Co 9 S 8/ /C@C composite manifests exceptional potassium storage performance. It displays excellent cycling retention and maintains high capacities of 410 mA h g−1 at 100th cycle under 0.1 A/g and 201 mA h g−1 after 1500 cycles at 1 A/g. It also achieves a superior rate capability of 200 mA h g−1 at 10 A/g, surpassing most cobalt sulfide-based anodes that have been reported for PIBs. As revealed by in-depth characterizations and theoretical calculation, the conductive network engineering within hollow structure can optimally augment the electron/ion conductivity of Co 9 S 8 and tolerate its volume changes during cycles, thus leading to the exceptional performance of WIT Co 9 S 8/ /C@C composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: To compare outcomes of patients treated with low-dose-rate (LDR) adjuvant brachytherapy (BT)+external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) vs. high-dose-rate (HDR) adjuvant BT+EBRT. Methods and materials: Thirty-seven patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) were treated with pre- or postoperative external beam irradiation and postoperative LDR or HDR BT. Results: There was no significant difference in the 2-year local control rates (90% with LDR boost vs. 94% for HDR). The rate of National Cancer Institute (NCI) grades 2–4 wound-healing complications was 40% in the LDR group vs. 18% in the HDR group (p =0.14). On univariate analysis, only suboptimal geometry of the implant predicted for increasing complication rate in the LDR group. In the HDR group, BT dose per fraction, total BT dose, and total biologically equivalent dose (BED3) radiation dose were significant. Conclusions: HDR and LDR boost BT results in acceptable local control for STS. There is a suggestion that HDR may have lower incidence of severe (grade ≥3) acute toxicity than LDR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: GLUT4 is the main glucose transporter activated by insulin in skeletal muscle cells and adipocytes. GLUT4 storage vesicles (GSVs) traffic in endocytic and exocytic compartments. In the basal state, GLUT4 compartments are preferentially sequestered in perinuclear deposits wherein stimuli including insulin and non-insulin factors can increase GLUT4 vesicle formation, its exocytosis, and fusion to plasma membrane. In addition to well-established effectors of insulin signaling pathway, such as PKCzeta and Akt, the cytoskeletal network is implicated in GLUT4 translocation. This review will discuss the mechanisms and activation of GLUT4 trafficking and incorporating to PM from three aspects: known molecules of the insulin signaling pathway; Rho and Rab family proteins and cytoskeletal molecules. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • GdCoO 3 was formed via a stepwise calcination using viscous mixture. • The viscous state facilitates uniform mixing of the raw material. • GdCoO 3 shows remarkable reducibility, notable oxygen species, and good activity. • The preparation was affordable, reliable, and easily scalable. Grape-like GdCoO 3 perovskite was synthesized through a straightforward one-step method. In this process, the combined raw materials were lightly dampened with a minute quantity of water to form a viscous state and subsequently subjected to a single-step calcination, resulting in the formation of the perovskite structure, all without the need for additional procedural steps. The characterization results indicated the presence of abundant reactive oxygen species distributed on the surface of GdCoO 3. Most notably, the catalyst prepared in this manner exhibited remarkable catalytic activity for VOC oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, manganese is selectively and efficiently recovered from spent lithium-ion batteries via advanced oxidation by using potassium permanganate and ozone, and the transition metal-doped α-MnO 2 and β-MnO 2 are one-step prepared for catalytic oxidation of VOCs. The recovery rate of manganese can be approximately 100% while the recovery efficiency of cobalt, nickel, and lithium is less than 15%, 2%, and 1%, respectively. Compared with pure α-MnO 2 and β-MnO 2 , transition metal-doped α-MnO 2 and β-MnO 2 exhibit better catalytic performance in toluene and formaldehyde removal attributed to their lower crystallinity, more defects, larger specific surface area, more oxygen vacancies, and better low-temperature redox ability. Besides, the introduction of the appropriate proportion of cobalt or nickel into MnO 2 can significantly improve its catalytic activity. Furthermore, the TD/GC-MS result indicates that toluene may be oxidized in the sequence of toluene − benzyl alcohol − benzaldehyde-benzoic acid − acetic acid, 2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-hydroxy-, cyclopent-4-ene-1,3-dione − carbon dioxide. This method provides a route for the resource utilization of spent LIBs and the synthesis of MnO 2. ga1 • Manganese is selectively and efficiently recovered from spent LIBs. • Metal-doped α-, β-MnO 2 were one-step prepared for catalytic oxidation of VOCs. • Metal-doped α-, β-MnO 2 exhibited better catalytic performance in VOCs removal. • Metal-doped α-, β-MnO 2 showed better physicochemical properties. • The reaction pathway of metal-doped α-MnO 2 for toluene oxidation was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the sustainable use of wastes, cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries are recovered and used as transition metal precursors to prepare metal oxides catalysts for the oxidation of VOCs. In this work, a series of manganese-based and cobalt-based metal oxides are synthesized via different preparation methods. Catalytic activities of the catalysts prepared are investigated through complete oxidation of oxygenated VOCs and the physicochemical properties of optimum samples are characterized. Evaluation results indicate that MnOx (SY) (HT) sample prepared via hydrothermal method and CoOx (GS) (CP) synthesized via co-precipitation method had better performance, because they have higher specific surface area, higher concentration of active oxygen species and high-valence metal ion, as well as better low-temperature reducibility compared to the other multi-metal oxides used in the study. In addition, TD/GC-MS results imply that further oxidation of by-products requires high reaction temperature during VOCs oxidation. • Cathode materials are recovered from spent LIBs. • A series of multi-metal oxides are synthesized by different methods. • MnOx (SY) (HT) and CoOx (GS) (CP) samples perform better catalytic activities. • MnOx (SY) (HT) and CoOx (GS) (CP) possess optimized physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Valuable metals were recovered from spent LiBs and CuNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 as high-efficient catalyst for VOCs oxidation was prepared from spent LiBs. • The effective removal of Li and Al can improve the catalytic performance of toluene combustion over CuNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4. • In-situ DRIFTs results indicate that the main intermediates are benzoate over manganese-based oxides. • TD/GC-MS results show that main by-products of toluene oxidation are benzaldehyde and benzoic acid over CuNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4. • The oxidation pathway and reaction mechanism of toluene oxidation over CuNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 were investigated. Valuable metals such as manganese, cobalt, nickel and copper are recycled from spent ternary lithium-ions batteries (LiBs) and are considered as the active metal precursor to prepare based-manganese multi oxide for VOCs oxidation. The results of characterization analysis indicate that the catalyst from spent LiBs shows larger specific surface area of 26.80 m2/g as well as abundant mesoporous structures on the surface, higher molar ratio of Mn4+/Mn3+ (0.70) and O latt /O ads (1.68), better low-temperature reductivity and stronger intensity of weak acid sites in comparison with those of pure manganese oxides. The evaluation experiments show that the catalyst from waste exhibits more excellent catalytic performance of toluene combustion in comparison with pure manganese oxides. Furthermore, the presence of considerable amount of lithium and aluminum ions can severely weaken the catalytic activity while the co-existence of nickel, cobalt and copper ions contribute a lot to facilitate the catalytic behavior. In-situ DRIFT study implies that the introduction of lithium, aluminum, nickel, copper and cobalt into pure manganese oxides can facilitate toluene conversion to various extents, following the consecutive steps via benzyl species, benzoyl oxide species, benzaldehyde species, benzoate species and the primary intermediates are benzoate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selectivity of a facile reductive and extractive desulfurization process was studied. In this desulfurization method, polyethylene glycol was used as the extractant, and sodium borohydride was used as the reductant. Several different simulated fuels were prepared by dissolving thiophenic sulfides, methylbenzene and hexylene in octane. The results showed that methylbenzene and olefins had different effects on different sulfur compounds during this desulfurization process. The extraction and reduction mechanisms were also explained. Four factors could affect the desulfurization performance: (1) intermolecular hydrogen bonding: (a) active O bonding with aromatic H or (b) S bonding with H atoms in hydroxide radicals, (2) "like-dissolves-like" interactions between polyethylene glycol and thiophenic sulfides, (3) the methyl steric hindrance effect and the electron density of sulfur atoms, and (4) the combination of S atoms with produced nickel boride to form active desulfurization centres. The desulfurization reaction path was also deduced according to the GC/MS results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: 2-HP-β-cyclodextrin-PLGA nanoparticle complexes were prepared to enhance the aqueous humour delivery of Triamcinolone acetonide. Materials & methods: Drug-loaded 2-HP-β-CD/PLGA nanoparticle complexes prepared by adapting a quasi-emulsion solvent evaporation technique. In vitro drug release, in vitro transcorneal permeation study, histopathological study and in vivo transcorneal penetration of PLGA nanoparticles and 2-HP-β-CD/PLGA nanoparticle complexes were evaluated. Results: Particle size distributions of 2-HP-β-CD/PLGA nanoparticle complexes were 149.4 ± 3.7 nm and presented stable system. Corneal penetration studies revealed steady sustained drug release (First-order); 2-HP-β-CD/PLGA nanoparticle complexes increased ocular bioavailability by increasing dispersion in the tear film and improving drug release. Conclusion: 2-HP-β-CD/PLGA nanoparticle complex formulation is a promising alternative to conventional eye drops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embryogenesis necessitates harmonious coordination between embryonic and extraembryonic tissues. Although stem cells of both embryonic and extraembryonic origins have been generated, they are grown in different culture conditions. In this study, utilizing a unified culture condition that activates the FGF, TGF-β, and WNT pathways, we have successfully derived embryonic stem cells (FTW-ESCs), extraembryonic endoderm stem cells (FTW-XENs), and trophoblast stem cells (FTW-TSCs) from the three foundational tissues of mouse and cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) blastocysts. This approach facilitates the co-culture of embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells, revealing a growth inhibition effect exerted by extraembryonic endoderm cells on pluripotent cells, partially through extracellular matrix signaling. Additionally, our cross-species analysis identified both shared and unique transcription factors and pathways regulating FTW-XENs. The embryonic and extraembryonic stem cell co-culture strategy offers promising avenues for developing more faithful embryo models and devising more developmentally pertinent differentiation protocols. [Display omitted] • A common culture condition for mouse and monkey embryonic and extraembryonic stem cells • Stem cell co-cultures reveal crosstalk between embryonic and extraembryonic lineages • Extraembryonic endoderm cells limit pluripotent cell growth via ECM signaling • Cross-species study uncovers common/unique genes regulating extraembryonic endoderm cells A unified culture condition for all three primary tissues of mouse and cynomolgus monkey blastocysts is established, facilitating stem cell co-culture experiments and uncovering intricate interactions between embryonic and extraembryonic lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CoMn 2 O 4 spinel catalyst was successfully synthesized by facile solvent-free molten method and utilized as PMS activator. • Systematical catalytic RhB degradation performance of CoMn 2 O 4 activating PMS system was investigated. • The as-prepared CoMn 2 O 4 exhibited diverse valences of Mn, Co species and oxygen vacancies. • RhB degradation mechanism was proposed based on scavenging, EPR and UV–vis measurement. CoMn 2 O 4 spinel catalyst was successfully fabricated by facile solvent-free molten method and utilized as peroxymonosulfate activator for rhodamine B (RhB) degradation. The as-prepared CoMn 2 O 4 exhibited nano-cluster with porous structure and abundant lattice oxygen amount. The catalytic activity of CoMn 2 O 4 for RhB degradation was investigated under different conditions. The superior catalytic activity was further confirmed by quenching experiment and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), which was concluded that 1O 2 was the dominant active species during RhB degradation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The interactions between anthraquinones and βLG were investigated. • The anthraquinones bound to the side near Trp19–Arg124 on βLG. • The order of binding increased with increasing polarity of anthraquinones. • Complexing with βLG increases the hydrosolubility of anthraquinones. Abstract Anthraquinones, a class of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds, exhibit a wide range of bioactivities. However, most free anthraquinones are lipophilic bioactive compounds. Bovine β-lactoglobulin (βLG), a major whey protein, has a high affinity for small hydrophobic compounds. In this study, the interactions between anthraquinones (rhein, emodin, and chrysophanol) and βLG were investigated by using fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and docking studies. These anthraquinones bound to the site near Trp19–Arg124 on βLG with a binding constant (Ka) between 103 and 105 L mol−1 to form complexes, which changed the secondary structure of βLG, inducing an α-helix to β-sheet structure transition. The order of binding increased with an increasing polarity in the order of rhein > emodin > chrysophanol. In addition, the degree of radical scavenging capacity masking increased with an increasing binding affinity. Complexation with βLG significantly increases the hydrosolubility of anthraquinones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Different ZnFe/Si ratio of 3DOM sorbents were prepared via colloidal crystal template method. • SiO 2 plays a crucial role in 3DOM framework construction and stabilization. • High surface area and connected macropores of 3DOM sorbents are beneficial for diffusion. • 3D-50ZFS perform excellently in H 2 S removal and multiple processes. Abstract A series of 3DOM zinc ferrites and silica composites were prepared and applied on the hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) removal at 500 °C. With ∼230 nm-sized macropores and 15 nm-sized walls, the morphology analysis showed the as-prepared ZnFe 2 O 4 -SiO 2 materials were conducted as a typical 3DOM structure. As a solifidation agent, silica significantly influenced not only the composites structure, which induced the homogeneity and stability of 3DOM structure, but also the desulfurization behavior, in which the active phase utilization decreased if the compounded silica amount was too high or too low. Anyway, the 3DOM sorbents exhibited remarkable desulfurization performance due to the unique structure features with high surface area, nano zinc ferrite particles, well arranged macropores with interconnected mesopores, which significantly enhances gaseous reactant diffusion during sulfidation compared with those of bulk sorbent. Sulfates could be formed during both sulfidation and regeneration process, while Fe 2 (SO 4) 3 in sulfided sample and ZnSO 4 in regenerated sample. 3DOM structure and silica participation enhanced the breakthrough capacity of 50 wt% ZnFe 2 O 4 compounded sorbent and maintained higher desulfurization capacities upon multiple sulfidation/regeneration cycles more ascribed to its special structural feature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Mechanism of microstructure in different thickness positions of TRTs are discussed. • Crashing tests and simulation of TRTs are performed and compared. • Novel theoretical model of TRTs with axially varying thickness and material strengths are established. • Effects of the thickness and material strengths on the heights of folding elements are analyzed. • Different tube structures are selected to compare the crashing behaviors by adopting novel model. Abstract By adopting the variable gauge rolling (VGR) technology and the annealing process, the tailor rolled blanks (TRBs) with both continuously varying thickness and inhomogeneous material properties could be obtained. Through the procedure of subsequent forming and laser welding technology on TRBs, the tailor rolled tubes (TRTs) with axially varying thickness and material properties were successfully produced, and performed by the quasi-static axial crushing afterwards. On the basis of the microstructural transformation at different thickness locations, the relationships between the material properties and thicknesses were analyzed. Moreover, the failure mode and the deformation mechanism of TRTs have been discussed. It is noted that the progressively increased distances between the top and bottom of the plastic hinges is the essential characteristic. Combined with the classical crushing theories and models, a novel predictive mathematical model considering the thickness variation, changing material properties and variety heights of folding elements has been established. Compared with the series conventional computing models, this novel model performed better. On this foundation, the effects of different thickness transition form and distribution of material properties on the crushing performances were investigated. Besides, detailed effects of the tube structure and with or without changing material properties on the crushing capacity were also studied by introducing the concept of equivalent strength and equivalent thickness. Graphical abstract Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The mechanical properties in tailor rolled blank of dual phase steel (DP-TRB) at different thickness zones present significant differences after annealing. In this paper, the differences in mechanical property of the tailor rolled blank were investigated. The work hardening behavior is analyzed by C-J analysis method. The results indicate that the microstructure of DP-TRB is composed of ferrite and martensite at 800–820 °C. It is interesting that the martensite islands gradually chang to equiaxed morphology from rod-like shape at annealing temperature of 800 °C. In addition, the differences in mechanical properties between different thicknesses zones become less with the increased intercritical temperature from 760 °C to 820 °C. It indicates that the difference in yield strength decreases from 230 MPa to 60 MPa with the intercritical temperature changing from 760 °C to 820 °C. Ferrite recrystallization or not is the main reason for the differential properties. The critical thickness for recrystallization is same ~ 1.6 mm, and the 1.6 mm zones is experimentally proved to possess the largest strength at 760 °C, 800 °C, and 820 °C. The samples in thinner zones are softened because of the recrystallization, while the samples in the larger thickness zone are not strong enough as 1.6 mm with less work-hardening. After the yield point, there is an extra work hardening stage in 1.6 mm and 1.8 mm samples relative to 1.0–1.4 mm samples, which can eliminate nonuniform deformation and prepare for the followed uniform deformation. Consequently, turning of this feature of properties differentiation rationally would play an important role in application of DP-TRB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The effects of O 3 /Cl 2 disinfection on corrosion and the growth of opportunistic pathogens in drinking water distribution systems were studied using annular reactors (ARs). The corrosion process and most probable number (MPN) analysis indicated that the higher content of iron-oxidizing bacteria and iron-reducing bacteria in biofilms of the AR treated with O 3 /Cl 2 induced higher Fe 3 O 4 formation in corrosion scales. These corrosion scales became more stable than the ones that formed in the AR treated with Cl 2 alone. O 3 /Cl 2 disinfection inhibited corrosion and iron release efficiently by changing the content of corrosion-related bacteria. Moreover, ozone disinfection inactivated or damaged the opportunistic pathogens due to its strong oxidizing properties. The damaged bacteria resulting from initial ozone treatment were inactivated by the subsequent chlorine disinfection. Compared with the AR treated with Cl 2 alone, the opportunistic pathogens M. avium and L. pneumophila were not detectable in effluents of the AR treated with O 3 /Cl 2 , and decreased to (4.60 ± 0.14) and (3.09 ± 0.12) log 10 (gene copies/g corrosion scales) in biofilms, respectively. The amoeba counts were also lower in the AR treated with O 3 /Cl 2. Therefore, O 3 /Cl 2 disinfection can effectively control opportunistic pathogens in effluents and biofilms of an AR used as a model for a drinking water distribution system. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the microstructure and mechanical properties that distribute regulation along the rolling direction of tailor rolled blanks (TRB) were investigated. A tensile specimen with equal probability in yield (EYS) was first designed considering variation both in thickness and in material strength. The uniaxial tension test was carried out with a digital image correlation method to analyze the mechanical behaviors. The results showed that the strain distribution of EYS was homogeneous. From the results, it can be known that a new design philosophy for a TRB tensile specimen is reasonable and EYS is suitable to characterize the mechanical behavior of TRB. The true stress-strain curves of metal in different cross sections of TRB were calculated. On the basis of the true stress-strain curves, a material model of TRB was constructed and then implemented into finite element simulations of TRB uniaxial tensile tests. The strain distribution of numerical and experimental results was similar and the error between the elongation of the specimen after fracture obtained by experiment and FE ranged from 9.51% to 13.06%. Therefore, the simulation results match well with the experimental results and the material model has high accuracy and as well as practicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of ozone-biologically activated carbon (O 3 -BAC) treatment with various phosphate doses (0, 0.3 or 0.6 mg/L) were investigated on the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) and occurrence of opportunistic pathogens (OPs) in drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs) simulated by annular reactors (ARs). It was found that the lowest DBPs and the highest inactivation of OPs such as Mycobacterium spp. , Mycobacterium avium , Aeromonas spp. , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Hartmanella vermiformis , occurred in the effluent of the AR with 0.6 mg/L phosphate addition. Based on the results of different characterization techniques, for the AR with 0.6 mg/L phosphate-enhanced O 3 -BAC treatment, dissolved organic carbon in the influent exhibited the lowest concentration and most stable fraction due to the improved biodegradation effect. Moreover, the total amount of suspended extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the bulk water of the AR decreased greatly, resulting in the lowest chlorine consumption and DBPs formation in the AR. In Fourier transform infrared spectra of the suspended EPS, the amide II band (1600-1500 cm −1 ) disappeared and the protein/polysaccharide ratio decreased remarkably, indicating the destruction of protein and a decrease in hydrophobicity. Moreover, β-sheets and α-helices in the protein secondary structures were degraded while the random coils increased sharply as phosphate addition increased to 0.6 mg/L, inhibiting microbial aggregation and hence weakening the chlorine-resistance capability. Thus, most of the OPs in suspended biofilms were more easily inactivated by residual chlorine, resulting in the lowest OPs occurrence in the effluent of the AR. Our findings indicated that enhancing the efficiency of the BAC filter by adding phosphate is a promising method for improving water quality in DWDSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To help produce hypoallergenic food, this study investigated reducing the allergenicity and improving the functional properties of bovine β-lactoglobulin (βLG) by covalent conjugation with (−)-epigallo-catechin 3-gallate (EGCG) and chlorogenic acid (CA). The covalent bond between the polyphenols and the amino acid side-chains in βLG was confirmed by MALDI-TOF-MS and SDS-PAGE. Structural analysis by fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) indicated that the covalent conjugate of EGCG and CA led to the changed protein structure of βLG. Western blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay indicated that conjugation of βLG with these polyphenols was effective in reducing the IgE-binding capacity of βLG. The conjugates maintained the retinol-binding activity without denaturation the protein and enhanced the thermal stability with high antioxidant activity. The study provides an innovative approach to producing hypoallergenic food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pre-treatment/treatment/post-treatment multiple functional dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma is developed with different γ -Al 2 O 3 based catalysts packed in this research to deeply mineralize styrene and reduce by-products generation. NiO/ γ -Al 2 O 3 is packed in the first pre-treatment cell to effectively destroy the branched chains in styrene and weaken the benzene rings. TiO 2 / γ -Al 2 O 3 is packed in the second treatment cell due to their high catalytic oxidation activity to mineralize the generated aromatic compounds thoroughly. Finally, bare γ -Al 2 O 3 is packed in the last post-treatment cell to reduce the concentrations of by-products including O 3 and NO generated by air over oxidation. The combinations of these three catalysts are optimized through the treatment of 3000 mg m −3 styrene at specific input energy of 189 J L −1 . In comparison with single TiO 2 / γ -Al 2 O 3 packed reactor with the total discharge length of 8 cm, the selectivity of CO 2 can be significantly improved from 33% to 62% when the first 2 cm TiO 2 / γ -Al 2 O 3 is replaced by NiO/ γ -Al 2 O 3 . Furthermore, the concentrations of O 3 and NO in outlet can also be effectively reduced from 8.44 mg L −1 and 81 mg m −3 to 3.72 mg L −1 and 25 mg m −3 , respectively, when the last 2 cm TiO 2 / γ -Al 2 O 3 is replaced by bare γ -Al 2 O 3 . The effects of specific input energy and styrene initial concentration are also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial community structure and iron corrosion were investigated for simulated drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs) composed of annular reactors incorporating three different treatments: ozone, biologically activated carbon and chlorination (O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 ); ozone and chlorination (O 3 -Cl 2 ); or chlorination alone (Cl 2 ). The lowest corrosion rate and iron release, along with more Fe 3 O 4 formation, occurred in DWDSs with O 3 -BAC-Cl 2 compared to those without a BAC filter. It was verified that O 3 -BAC influenced the bacterial community greatly to promote the relative advantage of nitrate-reducing bacteria (NRB) in DWDSs. Moreover, the advantaged NRB induced active Fe(III) reduction coupled to Fe(II) oxidation, enhancing Fe 3 O 4 formation and inhibiting corrosion. In addition, O 3 -BAC pretreatment could reduce high-molecular-weight fractions of dissolved organic carbon effectively to promote iron particle aggregation and inhibit further iron release. Our findings indicated that the O 3 -BAC treatment, besides removing organic pollutants in water, was also a good approach for controlling cast iron corrosion and iron release in DWDSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The output and per capita consumption of China's dairy products have increased greatly; however, there has also been an increase in dairy safety issues in recent years. After the melamine milk scandal, China's government reformed the management of dairy products and associated laws to strengthen food safety regulations and raise technical standards to improve the safety of dairy products. Here, we review comprehensive relevant information on dairy supply, dairy product safety issues, and dairy product safety assurance systems in China. We discuss the features of the dairy industrial chain and analyze the key options available to China to improve dairy safety. At present, the dairy industry chain and the corresponding organization system of safety assurance are in a period of transition. The dairy industry chain is shifting from being decentralized and loose to intensive and compact. Meanwhile, the organization system of safety assurance is shifting from being under the sectional supervision of a multiagency coordination system to centralized supervision. In conclusion, the overall safety level of dairy products in China has increased after the melamine milk scandal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]