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Combining bio-based functional reagents and biopolymers has become a solution to address the needs of sustainability, health, and safety as society has grown. This study developed a waterproof and intumescent flame retardant system for epoxy resin (EP) by combining hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene and melamine with vanillin, synthesizing a ternary polymer flame retardant (HCPVM), combining carbon and gas sources, and using piperazine pyrophosphate (PAPP) as an acid source. The test results showed that HCPVM could participate in the curing reaction of EP and improve the mechanical properties of EP material. At the same time, the flame retardancy and water resistance of the material have been significantly improved. The peak heat release rate (PHRR) of EP/3.5 PAPP/0.5 HCPVM was 65.43% lower than that of pure EP. Additionally, the system's LOI and UL-94 did not significantly change after five days of boiling. In summary, this study's waterproof bio-based intumescent flame retardant solution broadens the application possibilities for EP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional addition method of rejuvenating agent used in the laboratory is inconsistent with the actual situation of the project, which reduces the reliability of the test results. In this paper, the way of premixing rejuvenating agent and Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and extracting asphalt binder is selected, and the modification effect, mechanism, and optimal content of rejuvenating agent on Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene Block Copolymer (SBS) modified asphalt are studied. In this paper, the asphalt in RAP is recycled and restored with different content of regenerant, and the conventional technical performance and Performance Graded (PG) grade of regenerated asphalt was tested. The composite equation of regenerated viscosity of SBS-modified asphalt was analyzed, and the pavement performance of regenerated SBS-modified asphalt mixture with different content of rejuvenating agent and RAP was tested, such as high-temperature stability, low-temperature crack resistance, and water stability. Finally, the determination method of the optimal content of rejuvenating agent was discussed. The results show that it is reliable to predict the viscosity, penetration, and softening point of regenerated asphalt by viscosity logarithmic composite equation. The content of rejuvenating agent has a certain influence on the PG classification of SBS-modified asphalt, which is mainly reflected in the low-temperature critical temperature. There is a certain content of rejuvenating agent to make the high-temperature stability of regenerated SBS-modified asphalt mixture reach the maximum. When the content of rejuvenating agent reaches a certain value, the low-temperature crack resistance and water stability of regenerated SBS-modified asphalt mixture no longer increase significantly with the increase of the content of regenerant. Using the three-level determination method of the optimal content of rejuvenating agent proposed in this paper, the optimal content and reasonable content range of rejuvenating agent can be obtained, which makes the technical performance of regenerated asphalt, PG grade, and the pavement performance of regenerated SBS-modified asphalt mixture meet the specification requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, co-production serves as a crucial approach to promote sustainable neighborhood rehabilitation. However, in China, where the governance system is characterized by strong state discourse power and a lack of public participation tradition, neighborhood rehabilitation encounters significant challenges, leading to project postponements or even failures due to unsuccessful co-production activities. To reveal the hidden problems, this paper aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the stakeholders' co-production roles and their participation structure in the co-produced sustainable neighborhood rehabilitation process from multiple dimensions. Using the case in Chongqing, the data was collected through questionnaire surveys and in-depth interviews. Social network analysis was utilized as the research method, and one-mode and two-mode networks were established to depict six relationship types with using diverse network indicators. This study revealed the high complexity of stakeholder structure, the awkward role of grass-rooted government, the dilemma of public voices and perceptions, uneven involvement in the co-production process, and the dynamic path of co-production formation. Drawing upon co-production theory, this paper elucidates the intricate mechanism of co-produced neighborhood rehabilitation in China. It offers valuable implications for policymakers and urban planners for project promotion, and contributes empirical insights to research in similar governance systems across the global context. • Stakeholder structure in co-produced sustainable neighborhood rehabilitation is highly complex. • Grass-roots government sectors have low discourse power in practice. • Resident-initiated organizations may not always accurately represent the views and interests of in-situ residents. • Uneven involvement of stakeholders can result in a downplayed co-design process and a weak role for investors. • Six network types are interconnected and interdepend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, aromatic petroleum resin (APR) was used as raw material. The fluorescence microscopic photography of styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS) modified asphalt with different contents of APR was carried out, and the effect of APR on the dispersion of SBS modified asphalt was quantitatively studied. The nano-surface morphology of SBS modified asphalt with different APR contents was tested by atomic force microscope (AFM), and the effects of APR content on AFM nanoscale parameters such as roughness and maximum amplitude were analyzed. In addition, this paper also tested the basic technical indexes of SBS modified asphalt with different APR contents and revealed its improvement law on the pavement performance of SBS modified asphalt. The results show that the use of APR is beneficial to the shearing of SBS into smaller particles. The larger the amount of APR, the smaller the maximum particle size and average particle size of SBS in asphalt and the smaller the roughness and maximum amplitude of SBS modified asphalt. APR can improve the viscosity and low-temperature ductility of SBS asphalt to a certain extent. High-temperature storage stability is improved obviously; SBS modified asphalt mixed with APR has a more dense spatial cross-linking structure after thorough development. The research results are helpful to reveal the mechanism of APR improving the performance of SBS polymer asphalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the estimation of attraction domain of nonlinear systems with saturated impulses and input disturbances is investigated. The sufficient conditions which can ensure the robust convergence of a class of nonlinear dynamical systems for every initial condition in the attraction domain are established. Moreover, some optimization problems are proposed to design the control gain so as to enlarge the size of the estimation of attraction domain as much as possible with a prespecified decay rate. In addition, the exponential stabilization and the estimation of attraction domain for nonlinear dynamical systems under this saturated impulsive control without disturbances are also studied. Finally, simulation results for a chaotic oscillator are displayed to show the effectiveness and feasibility of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of chitosan-modified inorganic oxyacid salt flame retardants (IOS-CS) were synthesized and used as flame retardants to improve the fire resistance of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) composites while improving the mechanical properties of the materials. The thermal stability of the material was analyzed by TG test; the flame-retardant and smoke suppression properties were evaluated by limiting oxygen index (LOI) and cone calorimeter test, and the mechanical properties were analyzed by tensile test and impact test. The TG results showed that the addition of flame retardant can promote the early cross-linking decomposition of PVC composites, not only advance the decomposition temperature of the material but also promote the formation of char layer and increase the char residual content. LOI and cone calorimeter test results showed that stannate chitosan (Sn-CS) can improve flame retardant and smoke suppression more effectively than other samples. Compared with pure PVC, the addition of Sn-CS increased its LOI from 26.6 to 30.5% and reduced the total heat release value and total smoke release by 18.23% and 52.55%, respectively. At the same time, the addition of the flame retardants had no large deterioration effect on the mechanical properties of the material. The tensile properties of flame-retardant PVC were slightly reduced compared with pure PVC, and the impact resistance was even improved to some extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phosphazene-based flame retardant (PBFA) was synthesized by hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene and N-aminoethylpiperazine. To improve the flame retardancy of polypropylene (PP), PBFA and pentaerythritol derivatives (PEPA) were mechanically mixed to form a water resistance intumescent flame retardant (IFR). The flammability and thermal properties of the PP composites were analyzed by vertical burning test (UL-94), limit oxygen index, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and cone calorimeter test (CCT). The results indicate that there was a synergistic effect between PBFA and PEPA at a suitable mass ratio. When the mass ratio of PBFA/PEPA was 2:1, the PP composites can successfully achieve UL-94 V 0 rating. Compared with pure PP, the peak heat release rate and the total heat release were decreased by 75.40 and 15.38%, respectively; moreover, the total smoke production decreased by 22.11% during 0–465 s. The residual char after CCT was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR). A strong pyrophosphate absorption peak was found in FTIR, indicating that the IFR mainly played a flame-retardant mechanism in the condensed phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prefabrication has the potential to improve the efficiency and sustainability of housing production. However, there are various challenges in the realization of prefabricated housing (PH) from the stakeholder's perspective. Transaction costs (TCs) theory provides a particular angle that explains the invisible costs within transactions. This study aims to explore how perceptions of TCs vary for stakeholder groups and show the potential to reduce TCs in China. The distribution of TCs related to stages and stakeholders was investigated by a literature study and validated by expert interviews. Further, an existing framework of TCs was adopted to conduct a questionnaire survey for collecting perceptions of TCs from six stakeholder groups. The findings show that assembly, detailed design, and design change are the most highlighted TCs of PH. In particular, the component suppliers complained of TCs from the points of detailed design and hiring skilled labor. The local government emphasized TCs on monitoring and enforcement in assembly, architectural design, and component transportation. This research contributes to the construction management community by acknowledging stakeholders in understanding their TCs, which also inspires the policy makers to reduce significant TCs to smooth transactions for the future of China's PH market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyphosphate (copper polyphosphate: CuPPA, zinc polyphosphate: ZnPPA, cobalt polyphosphate: CoPPA and nickel polyphosphate: NiPPA) was used as surface modifiers, smoke suppressants and flame retardants to modify the magnesium hydroxide (MH). Core–shell flame retardants composed of transition metals (Cu, Zn, Co, Ni) and P were prepared. The morphology, chemical composition and structure of core–shell flame retardants were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectrum and X-ray diffraction. Compared with MH, the core–shell flame retardant endows EVA resin with better flame retardant, smoke suppression and mechanical properties. Under the same loading of flame retardant, the peak heat release rate, total heat release and CO production of EVA + Cu decreased by 41.45%, 7.51% and 54.84%, respectively, and the mass residue increased by 12.42%. These improvements can be attributed to the catalytic carbonation of transition metal compounds and better protection of char layer formation. The synergistic effect between polyphosphate and MH was discussed. Due to the extensive synergy between flame retardant metal ion and polyphosphate group, it had a potential application prospect in the preparation of various flame retardant polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanowires, nanosheets, and microflowers of nickel ammonium phosphate (NiNH4PO4·H2O) were synthesized by a mixed solvothermal method and used to improve the flame retardancy of epoxy resin (EP). The solvent concentration and surfactant content were found to play a key role in nucleation and growth of NiNH4PO4·H2O. The structure of NiNH4PO4·H2O was characterized by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The flame retardancy, thermostability, mechanical properties, and flame retardancy mechanism of EP/NiNH4PO4·H2O composites were analyzed using the limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimetry (Cone), mechanical property tests, thermogravimetric analysis, and thermogravimetric–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicated that NiNH4PO4·H2O has proper thermal stability and greatly improves the flame retardancy of EP. The nanosheets outperformed the other morphologies; the EP/5% NiNH4PO4·H2O nanosheets have an LOI of 35.2%, which exceeds that of pure EP (24.7%). Furthermore, Cone showed that these nanosheets have the lowest peak heat release rate and peak smoke production rate, which are 69.1% and 36.5% lower than those of pure EP, respectively. NiNH4PO4·H2O can promote the formation of a stable char layer and release nonflammable gases, thus protecting the matrix by preventing heat and oxygen transfer and reducing the concentration of combustible gas. NiNH4PO4·H2O is expected to serve as a new high-efficiency flame retardant for EP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synergistic flame-retardant and smoke suppression properties of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and activated carbon-supported Fe2O3 (AC-Fe2O3) on flame-retardant epoxy resin (EP) composites were studied. The fire behavior and smoke emission of EP composites were evaluated by limiting oxygen index (LOI), scanning electron microscopy, UL-94 vertical burning, and cone calorimeter test. LOI and UL-94 tests showed that the addition of appropriate amount of AC-Fe2O3 can effectively reduce the fly ash phenomenon, the dripping, and after-flame time. The thermogravimetric analysis and derivative thermogravimetry results showed that APP and AC-Fe2O3 can effectively decrease the maximum decomposition rate (Rmax) and promote the carbonization reaction of EP. As for the cone calorimeter test results, APP and AC-Fe2O3 clearly changed the decomposition behavior of EP, leading to the formation of a stable char layer on the surface of the composites. When flame-retardant loading was 4 mass%, the peak heat release rate and peak smoke production rate of the 3APP/1AC-Fe2O3/EP sample decreased 50.2% and 46.9%, respectively. The amount of char residual after test increased from 8.47 to 21.25%. In addition, it was observed from the macroscopic photographs of the char residue after the cone test that, at the optimum proportion, APP and AC-Fe2O3 could promote the formation of compact charred layers and prevent their cracking, which effectively protected the underlying materials from burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing environmental problems, the rapid urbanization, and the disappearance of the demographic dividend in China has brought unprecedented opportunities to the development of prefabricated housing (PH). However, many barriers are hindering the promotion of PH, for instance, cost, lack of regulations, and the shortage of knowledge, among which cost is identified as one of the most critical barriers. Unlike previous studies focused only on production costs, this research aims to investigate transaction costs (TCs), e.g., searching costs, negotiation costs, and enforcement costs. First, this paper develops a theoretical TCs framework of the PH supply chain, based on an extensive literature review. Secondly, an empirical study was conducted on two cases in Chongqing to validate the TCs framework. Key stakeholders are identified by Social Network Analysis (SNA). Subsequently, 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders, both to verify the new TCs framework and to explore stakeholder concerns about TCs. The centrality metrics by SNA identified six key stakeholders who have a significant influence on TCs. It is found from the interviews that both the conceptual phase and the construction phase are stages where the majority of TCs occur. Both the developer and the general contractor are paying for more TCs compared to the other stakeholders. This study contributes to theory by initially introducing the concepts of TCs to the PH field, and the findings bring implications on the governance of PH supply chain to both private stakeholders and the government. • Transaction costs in the prefabricated housing supply chain cause low economic efficiency. • Critical stakeholders include developers, general contractors, architects, local governments, supervisors and component suppliers. • Developers and general contractors are recognized as bearing more Transaction Costs compared with the other stakeholders. • The conceptual phase and the construction phase are where the majority of transaction costs occur. • To improve the governance of projects, both public and private stakeholders can take actions to reduce transaction costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of transplanting bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) for the treatment of white matter damage are not well understood, nor are the underlying mechanisms. Recent studies showed that endogenous oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) can be stimulated to proliferate. Therefore, we explore the effects of BMSCs transplantation on white matter damage and the proliferation of OPCs in transient focal cerebral ischemic rats. BMSCs were transplanted into a group of rats that had undergone middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) 24 h after reperfusion. The ratswere examined by MRI-T2 and DTI sequencesdynamically. The proliferating cells were labeled by 5-Bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU). The effects of BMSC transplantation on neurons, axons, myelination, and proliferating OPCs were examined by Nissl staining, MBP/NF-H and BrdU/NG2 immunofluorescence staining7 days after transplantation. More Nissl-stained neuronswere found and the FA value of MRI-DTI was significantly higher in the MCAO + BMSCs group than in the MCAOgroup (both P  < .01). The fold change of MBP protein was significantly higher in the MCAO + BMSCs group than in the MCAO group ( P  < .01); the same was true of NF-H protein. Additionally, there were more BrdU + NG2 + cells in the SVZ areas of the MCAO + BMSCs group than in the MCAO group ( P  < .01). BMSCs thus were shown to alleviate neuronal/axonal injury and promote the proliferation of OPCs and formation of myelin sheath, significantly alleviating white matter damage in focal cerebral ischemic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a memristor-based hyperchaotic system is introduced. Considering time delays between the drive system and the response system in the process of synchronization, this paper designs one kind of flexible sandwich controller, which includes a rest in the sandwich structure, to realize the synchronization between two memristor-based hyperchaotic systems. Based on Lyapunov stability theory, matrix inequality, sandwich control and considering time delays, the exponential synchronization conditions for the memristor-based hyperchaotic systems with time delays via sandwich control are given. Finally, simulation results are displayed to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a frequent itemset mining algorithm based on the divide and conquer strategy in composite granular computing. In order to construct composite information granules (CIGs) and find the frequent patterns, an iterative approach is used in this algorithm. First, create atomic information granules. Next, atomic composite information granules are generated by atomic information granules. Then, through the intersect operation between atomic composite information granules and prune action, the frequent 2-CIGs that will be used to construct frequent 3-CIGs will be constructed, and so on, until no more frequent CIGs can be found. When creating CIGs, this method will improve the computing speed by logical operation in binary. It can avoid scanning database frequently and avoid using complex data structure, so it will reduce the I/O overhead and save a lot of memory space. And it also can optimize the generation of candidate CIGs and compress the transaction database dynamically. The experimental results show that this algorithm has good performance and has low computational complexity and high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a mathematical model that can control the stability of an unstable system. Periodicity is an important feature of the system. We add a continuous control to the first half of each period of the system and then add an impulse control J1 at the $1/2$ period time. Again, we do not control the rest half of each period of the system. Finally, we add an impulse control J2 at the end of each period of the system. The system is called an alternate-continuous-control system with double-impulse. We study the stability of the current system by constructing the Lyapunov function. Using the proposed method, we can control the Chua oscillator. The system has two impulse inputs per period, which is more in line with natural law than the system that only has a single-impulse input. Therefore, the system proposed in this paper is more practical than current mature control systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction mechanisms ofChlorella pyrenoidosa(CP) and textile dyeing sludge (TDS) co-pyrolysis were complex attributed to large activation energy variation. The maximum decomposition rate of CP/TDS co-pyrolysis presented a linearity (R2= 0.9960) versus blending ratio. Obvious synergistic effects had been found during co-pyrolysis at high temperature. The synergistic index of co-pyrolysis reached a maximum value (χ= 3.92%) at a blending ratio of 50% CP and 50% TDS. The blending ratio of 20% CP and 80% TDS led to the minimum lowest synergistic index value (χ= 1.34%), but decreased the apparent activation energy effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: A novel open-bowl pyramidal compound cyclotriveratrylene–carbazole (CTV–CZ) was designed and synthesized. Its absorption and emission spectroscopic properties in different organic solvents were characterized. Three absorption peaks of CTV–CZ around 235nm, 260nm and 290nm were observed. The fluorescence emission peaks were at about 353nm and 368nm using a solution of ∼10−7 M CTV–CZ. The intermolecular interaction between CTV–CZ and fullerene (C60) was studied in detail by UV–vis absorption and fluorescence spectra. CTV–CZ could associate with C60 to form supramolecular complex with 1:1 molar ratio and the binding constant was estimated to be 5.0(6)×104 M−1 by fluorimetry. The formation of inclusion complex for CTV–CZ and C60 was further confirmed by 1H NMR and cyclic voltammetry. The downfield shift of protons of CTV–CZ in its 1H NMR spectrum and the decrease of redox currents on addition of C60 showed that photo induced electron transfer (PET) occurred from the electron donor CTV and CZ units to the electron acceptor C60. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To exploretheeffects of physical, mechanical, anti-deterioration properties of graphene oxide (GO) on cement-based cementitious materials, GO sheet dispersions areprepared by the improved Hummers method and ultrasonic dispersion method. The influence of theGO content on the compressive and flexural strengths of cement paste is investigated, and the penetration process of chloride ions in graphene oxide concrete is discussed by the electric accelerated erosion method. Combined with the rapid freeze-thaw test, the deterioration of graphene oxide concrete ismethodically analyzed. Theobtained results reveal that an appropriate amount of GO improves both the compressive and flexural strengths of cement pastev. In the chloride environment, the chloride diffusion coefficient of 0.03% GO concrete is 18.75% less than that of ordinary concrete.Under the action of freeze-thaw cycles, with the increase of salt freezing times, the deterioration mode of GO concrete is a combination of mortar shedding, micro-crack expansion, denudation, and block shedding; The stress-strain curve of the specimen tends to be flat with the growth of salt freezing times. The peak stress gradually lessens, the peak strain gradually grows, and the elastic modulus remarkably reduces. Compared with ordinary cement paste, theGO is capable of promoting the growth of cement paste hydration crystals, changing the size and shape of crystals, and realizingthe regulation of cement paste microstructure. Incorporating an appropriate amount of theGO could promote the cement hydration process and enhance the chemical water-binding amount in the cement paste. The optimal GO content is reported to be 0.03% of the cement mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The underground buds of herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) ‘Zhong Sheng Fen’ were used to investigate the effects of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) on culture initiation, benzyladenine (BA) on axillary shoot induction, and three auxins (IAA, indole-3-butyric acid [IBA] and 1-naphthyleneacetic acid [NAA]) on axillary shoot proliferation. In addition, methods to rejuvenate hyperhydric microshoots were established. Our results showed that the best initiation medium for ‘Zhong Sheng Fen’ was half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with double the concentration of Ca2 + (880 mg L−1), 1 mg L−1 BA, 0.5 mg L−1 gibberellic acid (GA3) and 0.1 mg L−1 IAA. Axillary shoots were successfully induced by 2.0 mg L−1 BA. Several methods allowed the successful rejuvenation of hyperhydric microshoots, allowing them to develop normally. These included the addition of 3 g L−1 activated charcoal, the removal of ammonium nitrate from the medium, doubling the concentration of Ca2 + or eliminating BA from the medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphor nitrile functionalized UiO-66-NH 2 /graphene (G-U-H) was prepared combined a green mechanochemical method and microwave-assisted rapid method to improve the fire safety of epoxy resin (EP). The scanning electronic microscopy, transmission electron microscope and X-ray diffraction results indicated that the G-U-H exhibited sandwich-like hybrid structure. And the -OH from graphene nanoplatelets and -NH 2 from UiO-66-NH 2 were grafted with hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene to form covalent bonds. The obtained flame retardant was added to the EP at a different content. The flame retardancy index and cure index of EP composites were calculated, and those of EP-3 were both good. The cone calorimetry test showed that the flame retardancy of EP was improved and the flame retardant mechanism is the combination of condensed phase and gas phase with the synergistic of P, N and other elements. The physical barrier of graphene nanoplatelets and the generated more stable and denser residual char in condensed phase can effectively cut off the heat and mass transmission. In gas phase, the non-flammable gases were generated to help reduce the heat released. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetic foot is a global threat to public health, as it can lead to infections and amputations and cause significant pain and economic costs for patients. Diabetic foot patients in northern China have more severe local ulcers, worse prognosis, and longer disease duration. Objective: This study assessed the foot risk levels and foot care knowledge and behavior status of people with diabetes with different foot risk levels, and investigated the factors that influence the occurrence of high-risk foot in diabetes. Methods: This cross-sectional survey included 410 hospitalized people with diabetes. Demographic and disease-related data and foot risk stratification status were collected using investigator-designed questionnaires. Foot care knowledge and behavior questionnaires were also used. Results: Among the 410 participants, a total of 367 cases were classified as high-risk feet, among which 135 cases were rated as grade 1, 202 cases grade 2, and 30 cases grade 3. Foot care knowledge surveys revealed low scores in the areas of shoe and sock selection, foot and footwear examination, and management of foot problems. Foot care behavior surveys showed low scores in the areas of foot and footwear examination, management of foot problems, and foot injury risk behavior. One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in foot care behaviors among patients with different foot risk classifications (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed in foot care knowledge scores. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, history of cerebrovascular disease, and foot care behavior scores were factors influencing the occurrence of high-risk foot in people with diabetes. Conclusion: The results of this study showed a high prevalence of high-risk foot in diabetics; The knowledge and behavior of foot care in diabetics with different foot risk levels were both at a moderately low level; There were differences in foot behavior scores among patients with different foot risk classes, but, counter-intuitively, no significant differences in foot care knowledge. The study found that advanced age, history of cerebrovascular disease, and low foot care behavior scores are risk factors for high-risk foot in diabetes. Therefore, it is necessary to screen patients with diabetes for high-risk feet and implement targeted interventions according to the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An ion replacement strategy modified ZHS and rGO hybrid flame retardant by chitosan. • The flame retardancy and mechanical property of PVC can be improved simultaneously. • The chitosan has the characteristics of non-toxic and good anti-migration effect. Chitosan-modified zinc hydroxystannate (ZHS-CS) was synthesized using the cations of the biomaterial chitosan (CS) and ion replacement strategy. A ZHS-CS and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid flame retardant (ZHS-CS/rGO) was synthesized for use in flexible poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC). Scanning electron microscopy images indicated that ZHS-CS and rGO were evenly dispersed in ZHS-CS/rGO without agglomeration. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results showed that rGO was fully reduced. The flame-retardant and mechanical properties of PVC composites were investigated using the limiting oxygen index (LOI), a cone calorimeter, and mechanical equipment. By replacing one-fifth of the zinc ions in ZHS by chitosan cations to obtain Sn-4Zn-1CS/rGO, the ZHS-CS/rGO was found to improve PVC composite performance. The total heat release and total smoke release of PVC/Sn-4Zn-1CS/rGO were reduced by 24.2 and 40.0 %, respectively, from those of pure PVC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel type of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) encapsulated hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (ZIF-8@HCCP) dodecahedral flame retardant was synthesized and incorporated into epoxy (EP) for reducing the fire hazard of EP. HCCP was successfully encapsulated into ZIF-8 by one-pot approach combining ZIF-8 synthesis and molecule encapsulation benefiting the small windows and large holes effect of ZIF-8. HCCP was interact with ZIF-8 by P–Cl–N. The thermal decomposition temperature of ZIF-8@HCCP was 550.9 °C, significantly higher than that of HCCP (105.6 °C). This encapsulation exhibits high efficiency in flame retardancy and smoke suppression. The peak heat release rate, smoke release rate and CO release rate of 4 phr ZIF-8@HCCP-incorporated EP sample decreased by 56.2%, 57.2% and 45.7% because of the "quenching mechanism". This mechanism was proposed in which the structure of ZIF-8 collapsed following the rapid release of flame retardant exhibiting instantaneous flame-retardant behavior. Additionally, EP corresponded with ZIF-8@HCCP have good mechanical properties. This work provides a promising advance in designing good-thermal stability flame retardants for improving the fire safety of EP. Image 1 • Novel ZIF-8 encapsulated HCCP flame retardant was designed and was incorporated into epoxy resin to improve its fire safety. • The thermal stability of ZIF-8@HCCP composites could be controlled by dominating of encapsulating quantity. • ZIF-8@HCCP exhibited temperature-responsive transient release. • The flame retardancy and smoke suppression of the composites were improved dramatically. • Quenching flame-retardant mechanism was proposed and confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MH-PZPN-Ni was synthesized by LBL combining chelating Ni2+ method and added into EVA. • The core–shell structure and composition of MH-PZPN-Ni were characterized. • The flame retardancy were improved dramatically combining gas and condensed phase mechanism. • PZPN-Ni can endow EVA with excellent mechanical properties. A novel magnesium hydroxide-polyphosphazene-Ni2+ (MH-PZPN-Ni) was synthesized by the layer-by-layer assembly strategy and Ni2+ chelation method. Post modification, the composite was incorporated into ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). The morphology, composition and structure of the MH-PZPN-Ni composites were comprehensively characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. MH-PZPN-Ni could efficiently increase the flame retardancy and smoke suppression of EVA. The MH-PZPN-Ni (60 wt %)-incorporated EVA composite showed a limiting oxygen index value of 30.4 % and was rated as a UL 94 V-0 material. Cone calorimeter test results showed that the peak heat release rate and total heat release of EVA/MH-PZPN-Ni were decreased by 85.8 % and 56.7 %, respectively when compared to pure EVA. The morphology, structure, and chemical composition of the char residue and the pyrolysis products formed during the decomposition of the EVA composites were analyzed to investigate the flame-retardant mechanism of the modified EVA matrix. The production of ammonia (during the process of PZPN-Ni decay) and the water vapor formed due to the combustion of the H· and OH· radicals were found to dilute the concentration of the generated combustible gases. The denser char layer effectively blocked the heat and mass transfer. At the same time, the use of the Ni catalyst resulted in a significantly low production of various volatile products (such as CO and aliphatic and aromatic compounds). Moreover, PZPN-Ni enhanced the mechanical properties of EVA. The elongation at break increased by 74.9 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polyphosphazene and boric acid were deposited on the surface of magnesium hydroxide. • The multi-element cooperative strategy can effectively improve the flame retardancy of EVA. • The in-situ generation of BN can improve the flame retardant efficiency of the flame retardant. This work investigates the application of polyphosphazene (PZN) modified magnesium hydroxide (MH) crosslinked by boric acid (BA) (MH-PZPI-BA) for simultaneous flame retardant, smoke suppression and mechanical properties enhancement of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) nanocomposites. The MH-PZPI-BA was prepared by a PZN nano-coating made from hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene and branched polyethyleneimine (bPEI) was deposited onto the MH followed by BA cross-linking bPEI. Then MH-PZPI-BA was incorporated into EVA, and the properties were examined. Compared with pure EVA, the peak heat release rate and total heat released decreased by 82.7% and 44.2%, respectively. The MH-PZPI-BA has an excellent performance in reducing the smoke, CO, and CO 2 production rates. The "tortuous path" effect of the boron nitride of in-situ growth hindered the transfer of volatile products, and led to the formation of a compact and robust char layer in condensed phase during combustion, in the combustion process of EVA/MH-PZPI-BA. The tensile strength and elongation at break are improved by 26.1% and 33.5%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advancement of digital technology has driven innovation across industries. Artificial intelligence (AI) as a pivotal digital technology, has the potential to stimulate innovative outcomes when converged with construction technologies. However, current research has yet to accurately discover promising technology opportunities between AI and construction. To fill this gap, this study uses patent data to develop a holistic approach for precisely discovering technology opportunities. It focuses on analyzing technology convergence from two distinct perspectives: the "degree" and "value" of convergence. The technology convergence degree is measured based on the semantic network and graph convolution network (GCN) method. The technology convergence value is calculated according to patent attribute metrics. Analysis of the spatial-temporal evolution of technology convergence reveals the irreversible convergence trend between AI and construction. This study further identifies key opportunities, such as the convergence of computer vision and construction equipment technology, which have the potential to advance the construction industry. Technology opportunities are also identified both at global and national levels, providing strategic insights that could guide industry regulatory authorities. [Display omitted] • A framework is proposed to identify the technology opportunities from a technology convergence perspective. • The spatio-temporal evolution trend of the convergence between AI and construction technology is revealed. • The key convergence fields of both global and national convergence of AI and construction technologies are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While planning and management of urban green space (UGS) remain primarily driven by policymakers and expert knowledge, increasing attention has been paid to the general public's perception of and demand for UGS. This study was conducted to provide price-related outcomes to support UGS-related decision making and achieve an improved understanding of the causal relationships underpinning the residents' willingness-to-pay (WTP) for UGS conservation. An extensive survey with 3000 urban residents from three provincial capital cities in central China (i.e., Wuhan, Changsha and Nanchang) was conducted. We applied structural equation modelling to examine a range of hypothetical causal relationships among residents' perceptions about ecosystem services/disservices provided by UGS, frequency of UGS visits, socioeconomic status (SES) and WTP for the conservation of five different types of UGS. We found that residents had an average WTP of 202.4 CNY or 30.6 USD per year cross UGS types, with the attached green space having the greatest WTP (223.0 CNY or 33.7 USD per year), followed by park (215.4 CNY or 32.6 USD year), square (201.7 CNY or 30.5 USD year), suburban ecological (190.1 CNY or 28.7 USD year) and protective (182.0 CNY or 27.5 USD year) green spaces. Perceptions of UGS's ecosystem services had a positive causal impact on WTP, while perceptions of ecosystem disservices would have a negative impact. The frequency of UGS visits was found to amplify WTP at a limited level. It could further heighten and diminish the perceptions of ecosystem services and disservices. Participants with higher SES typically had greater perceptions of UGS's ecosystem services and WTP. Finally, we found that the structure of the causal relationships on WTP varied between cities, highlighting the importance of considering the fine-level impacts of biophysical environment jointly. Our results could help urban planners to understand better the ways urban green space was perceived and anticipate the likely effects of changing spatial patterns of UGS on the benefits and nuisances experienced by the general public. • An extensive survey with 3000 residents from three major cities in central China was conducted. • Residents reported an averaged willingness-to-pay (WTP) of 202.4 (CNY/person/year) for urban green space (UGS) conservation. • Perceptions of UGS's ecosystem services and disservices had positive and negative causal impacts on WTP. • Residents with higher socioeconomic status (SES) and higher frequency of UGS visits have relative higher WTP. • Impacts of perceptions, frequency of visits, and SES on WTP varied between cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and fast traffic prediction is the data-based foundation for achieving traffic control and management, and the accuracy of prediction results will directly affect the effectiveness of traffic control and management. This paper proposes a new spatiotemporal periodic polynomial model for road traffic, which integrates the temporal, spatial, and periodic features of speed time series and can effectively handle the nonlinear mapping relationship from input to output. In terms of the model, we establish a road traffic speed prediction model based on polynomial regression. In terms of spatial feature extraction methods, we introduce a maximum mutual information coefficient spatial feature extraction method. In terms of periodic feature extraction methods, we introduce a periodic trend modeling method into the prediction of speed time series, and effective fusion is carried out. Four strategies are evaluated based on the Guangzhou road speed dataset: a univariate polynomial model, a spatiotemporal polynomial model, a periodic polynomial model, and a spatiotemporal periodic polynomial model. The test results show that the three methods proposed in this article can effectively improve prediction accuracy. Comparing the spatiotemporal periodic polynomial model with multiple machine learning models and deep learning models, the prediction accuracy is improved by 5.94% compared to the best feedforward neural network. The research in this article can effectively deal with the temporal, spatial, periodic, and nonlinear characteristics of speed prediction, and to a certain extent, improve the accuracy of speed prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was initiated to document information on the levels of sediment contamination with organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Moreover, it was intended to identify compounds which impose major ecological risks to aquatic organisms. Surficial sediments were collected from 46 locations within the streams and rivers of the Awash River Basin. In total 30 compounds were included in this study: 16 OCPs, 7 PCBs and 7 PBDEs. The total concentrations of OCPs, PCBs, and PBDEs ranged from 6.63 to 206.13 ng g-1- dry weight (dw), 0.85 to 26.56 ng g-1-dw and 3.71 to 18.95 ng g-1-dw respectively. Out of all the tested OCPs, heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, p,p′-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p′-DDT) and β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) were the most abundant in the study area. The ratio of (β-HCH/∑HCHs) indicated that HCHs were originally from earlier usage of HCH in the area whereas the ratio of (p,p’-DDT/p,p’-DDE) showed that the majority of DDT components were recently introduced into most of the sampling locations. Even though there were relatively low concentrations of PBDEs and PCBs across the sampling sites, substantial amounts of PCBs were observed in Addis Ababa City. According to the established ecological risk indices, p,p’-DDT and γ-HCH are the major concerns for potential adverse ecological impacts. This study provided the first comprehensive information on organohalogenated compounds’ (OCs’) occurrences, spatial distributions, and ecological risks in sediments of the Awash River Basin. Thus, the report will be very useful background information for further studies on sediment contamination with OCs’ in the region. It also adds important first-hand data to the field of fresh water ecology and provides useful empirical evidence for setting pollution control priorities for an ecologically important, yet largely understudied region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To elucidate the possible mechanisms of how basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) influences epidermal homeostasis in a living skin equivalent (LSE) model. Methods: Several wound healing-related growth factors were analyzed at protein and mRNA levels for dermal fibroblasts of induced alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive or α-SMA-negative phenotypes. During culturing an LSE model by seeding normal human keratinocytes on a fibroblast-populated type I collagen gel, bFGF or neutralizing antibody for keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) was added to investigate its effects on fibroblast phenotypes and, subsequently, epidermal homeostasis by histology and immunohistochemistry. Results: The α-SMA-positive phenotype of fibroblasts induced by transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) markedly suppressed the expression of KGF and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and slightly upregulated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and TGF-β1 at mRNA and protein levels, compared with α-SMA-negative fibroblasts treated with bFGF. α-SMA expression of fibroblasts at the epidermal-mesenchymal junction of the LSEs was suppressed by the addition of bFGF, and a better-differentiated epidermis was presented. The abrogation of KGF from fibroblasts by the addition of the KGF neutralizing antibody disenabled the LSE culturing system to develop an epidermis. Conclusions: bFGF, through affecting the phenotypes and functions of fibroblasts, especially KGF expression, influenced epidermal homeostasis in an LSE model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work extends the finite-time stability (FTS) results to non-instantaneous impulsive time-varying systems on the basis of general impulsive systems via Lyapunov theory. The impacts of impulse numbers, impulse time sequences and impulse amplitudes on FTS and settling-time estimation are discussed. The effects of different types of impulses on settling-time are discussed when the impulse number is known or pre-given. The average impulsive interval is introduced to extend the above results to the case when the impulse number is unknown, and the derivative of Lyapunov function is allowed to be indefinite instead of being negative definite or semi-negative definite. Moreover, the theoretical results are applied to non-instantaneous impulsive neural networks. Finally, we provide two numerical examples to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A kind of nonlinear noninstantaneous impulsive equation with state‐dependent delay is studied here. By utilizing suitable fixed point theorem and the theory of semigroup in Banach space, the uniqueness and existence results of S$$ \mathcal{S} $$‐asymptotically w$$ w $$‐periodic mild solutions are obtained, respectively. In the end, two examples are presented to demonstrate the validity of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In China, neighborhood regeneration has transitioned into a new phase characterized by small-scale rehabilitation, and fostering active resident participation has emerged as a crucial challenge. While numerous studies have focused on encouraging resident participation, they often overlook the fact that, cultivating active resident participation requires establishing trust in the grassroots government as a precursor in the China's top-down governance system context. Grounded on the innovative notion of trust building, this paper aims to explore the formation of residents' trust in the grassroots government and its influence on their participation willingness. The theoretical foundation is rooted in the perspectives of organizational behavior and Social Exchange Theory (SET). Data is collected through a questionnaire survey, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed for empirical analysis. The empirical findings indicate that trust propensity, trustworthiness, and place attachment directly impact the development of residents' trust in the grassroots government. In turn, trust influences their participation willingness by shaping their perceived benefits and costs. By adopting the unique perspective of trust building, this paper provides theoretical support and practical implementation strategies for promoting resident participation in neighborhood regeneration in China. • Building residents' trust in grassroots government is pivotal in a top-down governance system. • The 'trust' is positively impacted by trust propensity, trustworthiness, and place attachment. • It reveals the pathway of how the 'trust' influence residents' participation willingness. • The theoretical model integrates concepts from organizational behavior and SET. • It offers implications and theoretical support for enhancing resident participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: International guidelines advocate providing prompt structured education to individuals with diabetes at diagnosis. However, among the few eligible structured education programs, heterogeneous intervention regimens and inconsistent findings were reported. Eligible programs for Chinese individuals with diabetes are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a nurse-led integrative medicine-based structured education program on self-management behaviors, glycemic control and self-efficacy among individuals with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Methods: Employing a randomized controlled trial, 128 individuals with type 2 diabetes diagnosed in the preceding three to nine months were recruited from four university-affiliated tertiary hospitals in Xi'an City, Northwest China, and randomly allocated to the intervention or control groups after baseline assessments. Participants in the intervention group received a 4-week nurse-led integrative medicine-based structured education program, which is theoretically based on the Health Belief Model and Self-Efficacy Theory, in line with updated diabetes management guidelines, and informed by relevant systematic reviews. Participants in the control group received routine care. Self-management behaviors and self-efficacy were measured with the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities and the Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale at baseline, immediate post-intervention and 12 weeks following the intervention while Glycated Hemoglobin A was measured at baseline and the 12th-week follow-up. The intervention effects were estimated using the generalized estimating equation models. Results: Participants in the intervention group exhibited significantly better self-management performance in specific diet regarding intake of fruits and vegetables at both follow-ups (β = 1.02, p = 0.011 and β = 0.98, p = 0.016, respectively), specific diet regarding intake of high-fat foods at the immediate post-intervention follow-up (β = 0.83, p = 0.023), blood glucose monitoring at the 12th-week follow-up (β = 0.64, p = 0.004), foot care at both follow-ups (β = 1.80, p < 0.001 and β = 2.02, p < 0.001, respectively), and medication management at both follow-ups (β = 0.83, p = 0.005 and β = 0.95, p = 0.003, respectively). The intervention also introduced significant improvements in Glycated Hemoglobin A (β = − 0.32%, p < 0.001), and self-efficacy at both follow-ups (β = 8.73, p < 0.001 and β = 9.71, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The nurse-led integrative medicine-based structured education program could produce beneficial effects on multiple diabetes self-management behaviors, glycemic control and self-efficacy. Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov. on 25/08/2017; registration number: NCT03261895. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of oxazole derivatives, 5-methyl-2-(p-methylphenyl)-4-acetyl oxazole (MMPAO), 5-methyl-2-(p-methoxyphenyl)-4-acetyl oxazole (MOPAO), 5-methyl-2-(p-N,N′-dimethylamino-phenyl)-4-acetyl oxazole (MDMAPAO) and 5-methyl-2-(p-N,N′-diphenylaminophenyl)-4-acetyl oxazole (MDPAPAO) have been synthesized and studied to compare their photophysical properties. The UV–visible absorption spectra of MDMAPAO and MDPAPAO are bathochromatically shifted as compared to that of MMPAO and MOPAO. The fluorescence emission of MDPAPAO is very sensitive to the polarity of solvents. The magnitude of change in the dipole moment was calculated using the Lippert–Mataga equation. MDPAPAO shows the highest change in the dipole moment (Δu =13.3D) than that of the other three oxazole derivatives. The spectral properties including fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime were determined in solvents with different polarities. MDPAPAO displays the highest fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime, following a bi-exponential fluorescent decay fashion. Our result demonstrates that the excited state of MDPAPAO possesses the property of intramolecular charge transfer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The effect of three flame retardants, KCO, NaSiO·9HO, and NaBO·10HO on the process and composition of volatile products of the thermal degradation of wood has been investigated by the thermogravimetric (TG), differential thermogravimetry (DTG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and the synchronous thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry (TG-MS) analysis methods. The results showed that the ion current intensity and ion peak area of m/ z = 18 and 44 MS signals were increased by the flame retardants but the ion peak area of m/ z = 28 MS signal was decreased (except KCO) at the meantime. What's more, the ion current intensity and ion peak area of m/ z = 60 and 68 MS signals were also decreased (except KCO), which mean that NaBO can significantly enhances the dehydration and inhibits the depolymerization of wood. Although KCO accelerates the dehydration reaction, it cannot inhibit the depolymerization reaction effectively, so the flame retardant efficiency of KCO is decreased with the higher concentration. The catalysis of dehydration reaction of NaSiO is the worst one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Microcystins (MCs) are cyanobacterial toxins in water blooms that have received increasing attention as a public biohazard for human and animal health. Previous studies were mainly focused on the toxic effects on adult fish, rather than juvenile or larvae, and the response of fish immune system were usually neglected. This paper presents the first data of the effects of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) on transcription of several genes essential for early lymphoid development (Rag1, Rag2, Ikaros, GATA1, Lck, TCRα) and heat shock proteins (HSP90, HSP70, HSP60, HSP27) in zebrafish larvae. Relative changes of mRNA transcription were analyzed by real time PCR. The transcription of Rag1, Rag2, Ikaros, GATA1, Lck and TCRα were up-regulated when following exposure to 800 µg/L MC-LR, which may indicate that specific lymphocytes differentiation and TCR/Ig arrangement are induced to counteract the toxic effects of MC-LR. It was also interesting to note the dramatically increased transcription of HSP90, HSP70, HSP60 and HSP27, which may indicate their important roles as molecular chaperones under oxidative stress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • Impacts of climate and land use change on the distribution of ticks were explored. • A model of different ticks showed diverse sensitivities to environmental factors. • The future distribution probability decreased under the scenario SSP5-RCP8.5. • The future potential distribution of ticks shifted further north in China. Ticks are known as vectors of several pathogens causing various human and animal diseases including Lyme borreliosis, tick-borne encephalitis, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. While China is known to have more than 100 tick species well distributed over the country, our knowledge on the likely distribution of ticks in the future remains very limited, which hinders the prevention and control of the risk of tick-borne diseases. In this study, we selected four representative tick species which have different regional distribution foci in mainland China. i.e., Dermacentor marginatus , Dermacentor silvarum , Haemaphysalis longicornis and Ixodes granulatus. We used the MaxEnt model to identify the key environmental factors of tick occurrence and map their potential distributions in 2050 under four combined climate and socioeconomic scenarios (i.e., SSP1-RCP2.6, SSP2-RCP4.5, SSP3-RCP7.0 and SSP5-RCP8.5). We found that the extent of the urban fabric, cropland and forest, temperature annual range and precipitation of the driest month were the main determinants of the potential distributions of the four tick species. Under the combined scenarios, with climate warming, the potential distributions of ticks shifted to further north in China. Due to a decrease in the extent of forest, the distribution probability of ticks declined in central and southern China. In contrast with previous findings on an estimated amplification of tick distribution probability under the extreme emission scenario (RCP8.5), our studies projected an overall reduction in the distribution probability under RCP8.5, owing to an expected effect of land use. Our results could provide new data to help identify the emerging risk areas, with amplifying suitability for tick occurrence, for the prevention and control of tick-borne zoonoses in mainland China. Future directions are suggested towards improved quantity and quality of the tick occurrence database, comprehensiveness of factors and integration of different modelling approaches, and capability to model pathogen spillover at the human-tick interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Changes in the spatial pattern of urban and rural development were explored. • Impact of high-speed rail (HSR) on the spatial regional pattern were investigated. • An increasingly fragmented spatial pattern was found for urban-rural development. • Rural areas were expanded in a less contiguous but more complex and dispersed way. • Departure frequency of HSR and proximity to HSR station were important factors. China has experienced rapid residential land expansion in both urban and rural areas over the past three decades, causing complex ecological and environmental challenges. Much research attention has been paid on urbanisation, yet little is known about rural development. In this study, we analysed and compared the changes in a selected number of landscape indices describing the spatial patterns of both urban and rural area in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River in central China from 2005 to 2015 and explored how these changes could be associated with the development of high-speed rail (HSR) using spatial error models. We found a partial synchronised spatial development pattern between urban and rural areas in central China, with an increasingly fragmented pattern for both urban and rural areas, albeit rural areas were expanded in a less contiguous but more complex and dispersed fashion. The impacts of the provision of HSR services on the region's spatial development were found to be multi-level. It was associated with greater urban expansion and dispersion at the county/district level and amplified rural patch size and complexity at the patch level. The departure frequency of HSR trains and proximity to HSR station were found to have affected the magnitude of the impact of HSR service provision on regional spatial development. Our results shed lights on the spatio-temporal evolution of an ecologically important region, add new evidence into the expanding fields of urban and rural morphological studies in China, and provide valuable decision support information for integrated spatial planning of transportation and land use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex interactions have been established between nanoparticles (NPs) and heavy metals in real environments. Herein we used zebrafish embryos to investigate the influence of titanium dioxide NPs (n-TiO 2) on the uptake, bioconcentration, and depuration, and toxicity of Pb. The formation of n-TiO 2 –Pb complexes was confirmed in an exposure suspension. An increase in Pb bioconcentration was observed in zebrafish embryos upon co-exposure to n-TiO 2 and Pb; moreover, n-TiO 2 –Pb complexes could be found in the embryos, indicating the bioavailability of NPs. However, there was no difference in the depuration rates of Pb in the presence of n-TiO 2. Metallothionein (MT) content was significantly increased upon exposure to Pb alone, and the content significantly increased even further upon co-exposure. A downregulation in the expression levels of the neurodevelopment-related genes gfap , syn2α , and elavl3 was observed in the embryos, and we also noted a reduction in the swimming speed of and the total distance traveled by the larvae. To summarize, our results indicate that n-TiO 2 can act as an effective carrier of Pb to enhance its uptake, bioavailability, and toxicity in zebrafish embryos. • n-TiO 2 -Pb complexes were formed in co-exposure suspension. • Bioconcentration and bioavailability of Pb was increased by n-TiO 2 in zebrafish embryos. • Neurotoxicity of Pb was enhanced in the presence of n-TiO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In cold and arid regions, the maintenance of roadways and railways faces significant challenges due to serious spalling and sheet erosion, rill erosion, and shallow sliding of loess slopes. Moreover, the frequency and severity of these shallow failures, as well as the vegetation cover, differ greatly between sunny and shady slopes, further complicating slope maintenance. This study focuses on field observations conducted over two consecutive years along a highway at the western end of Chinese Loess Plateau, specifically examining soil temperatures and moisture content within two cut slopes. By analyzing the differences in hydro-thermal regimes within a depth of 100 cm between the sunny and shady slopes, and considering the meteorological data collected at the study site, the research aims to provide insights into these failures of loess slopes. The results indicate that the shady slope undergoes significant seasonal freeze-thaw cycles from the surface down to a depth of 100 cm. The freezing duration ranges from 96 to 120 days, with a freezing index ranging from −250 °C·d to −850 °C·d. Additionally, the shallow layer on the shady slope experiences significant daily freeze-thaw cycles in late autumn and early winter. In contrast, the sunny slope experiences minimal seasonal freeze-thaw processes. Although the shallow surface layer of the sunny slope undergoes some daily freeze-thaw cycles in late winter and early spring, the amplitudes of soil temperature fluctuations are significantly smaller compared to those on the shady slope. Given that the precipitation is concentrated in summer and autumn, the moisture content of the soil on the shady and sunny slopes exhibits noticeable seasonal changes. The soil layers on the shady slope tend to be relatively dry, while those on the sunny slope remain relatively moist. The moisture content within the observed depth on the sunny slope remains relatively consistent, while on the shady slope, a clear gradient is evident. The moisture content of the shallow slope layers within a depth25 cm primarily responses to heavy rainfall events, with a greater response observed on the shady slope compared to the sunny slope. The field-observed hydro-thermal data collected in this study serve a valuable basis for implementing revegetation strategies and enhancing the stability of loess slopes in cold and arid regions. • Hydro-thermal regimes of sunny and shady cut slopes were observed in loess regions. • Seasonal and daily freeze-thaw of sunny and shady cut slopes were compared. • Dry-wet cycles of sunny and shady cut slopes were compared. • Response of soil moisture content of slopes to rainfall events were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermogravimetric kinetic of bamboo waste (BW) pyrolysis has been studied using Asymmetric Double Sigmoidal (Asym2sig) function deconvolution. Through deconvolution, BW pyrolytic profiles could be separated into three reactions well, each of which corresponded to pseudo hemicelluloses (P-HC), pseudo cellulose (P-CL), and pseudo lignin (P-LG) decomposition. Based on Friedman method, apparent activation energy of P-HC, P-CL, P-LG was found to be 175.6 kJ/mol, 199.7 kJ/mol, and 158.4 kJ/mol, respectively. Energy compensation effects (ln k 0, z vs. E z ) of pseudo components were in well linearity, from which pre-exponential factors ( k 0 ) were determined as 6.22E+11 s −1 (P-HC), 4.50E+14 s −1 (P-CL) and 1.3E+10 s −1 (P-LG). Integral master-plots results showed pyrolytic mechanism of P-HC, P-CL, and P-LG was reaction order of f ( α ) = (1 − α ) 2 , f ( α ) = 1 − α and f ( α ) = (1 − α ) n ( n = 6–8), respectively. Mechanism of P-HC and P-CL could be further reconstructed to n -th order Avrami-Erofeyev model of f ( α ) = 0.62(1 − α )[−ln(1 − α )] −0.61 ( n = 0.62) and f ( α ) = 1.08(1 − α )[−ln(1 − α )] 0.074 ( n = 1.08). Two-steps reaction was more suitable for P-LG pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A socio-biophysical index of water resource vulnerability (WRV) was developed. • Water-rich areas in the southeast were projected to suffer declining water yield. • The greatest increase in WVR was projected under medium-to-high-end climate scenario. • Projected regional differences in WVR resulted from mixed effects. • Several adaptation actions were proposed to reduce the vulnerability. Despite being one of the most abundant water resources globally, the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) region is facing substantial risks aggravated by climatic and anthropogenic changes. Here, we adopted an integrated framework to investigate the plausible futures of water resource provisioning in YRB under current and future conditions on the sub-watershed level: (i) a process-based model (InVEST) was used to project the water yield of the whole of YRB in the nearest future (2040–2060) and distant future (2080–2100) and (ii) a socio-ecological index was developed to assess the spatio-temporal patterns of water resources vulnerability (WRV). Model projections indicated that several water-rich areas in the southeastern YRB would suffer declining water yield in the future. While water yield was projected to increase in some drier regions in the northwest. Future changes in the basin-level vulnerability were projected to decrease under low emissions scenarios (RCP2.6) combined with a sustainability socioeconomic scenario (SSP1). The greatest increase in vulnerability was projected under the medium-to-high end (RCP7.0) rather than high-end (RCP8.5) climate change scenario. The areas with high WRV were distributed in sub-watersheds near Taihu Lake and the source of the Yangtze River. Climate and socioeconomic change were projected to have different roles in shaping the future dynamics of WRV, with precipitation reduction and water consumption increase being likely to result in increased WRV levels in the southeastern lower reaches and the middle reaches, respectively. Our study added new spatial data on projected water resource dynamics for the region of vital ecological and economic importance in Asia. The areas prone to increased WRV should be prioritised in future water resources management practices. The assessment approach used in this study integrated concurrent measures from both subjective and objective perspectives and could be used in relevant studies on exploring how future vulnerability could respond to environmental changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted considerable attention because of their wide range of applications. Interactions between heavy metals (e.g., Pb) and NPs in aquatic environments may modify the bioavailability and toxicity of heavy metals. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of NPs (e.g., nano-TiO 2 ) on the bioavailability and toxicity of Pb and its effects in the thyroid endocrine and nervous systems of zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) larvae. Zebrafish embryos (2-h post-fertilization) were exposed to five concentrations of Pb alone (0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 μg/L) or in combination with nano-TiO 2 (0.1 mg/L) until 6 days post-fertilization. Results showed that the bioconcentration of Pb was significantly enhanced when combined with nano-TiO 2 than when used alone. Zebrafish exposure to Pb alone at 30 μg/L significantly decreased the thyroid hormone levels (T 4 and T 3 ), whereas nano-TiO 2 treatment alone did not produce detectable changes. The levels of T 4 and T 3 were further decreased when Pb was combined with nano-TiO 2 than when used alone. The transcription of the thyroid hormone-related factor tg gene was remarkably down-regulated by Pb treatment alone but up-regulated when Pb was combined with nano-TiO 2 . The significant up-regulation of tshβ gene and the down-regulation of TTR gene expression in the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid were observed in Pb with or without nano-TiO 2 treatment groups. In addition, the transcription of genes involved in central nervous system (CNS) development (α -tubulin , mbp , gfap and shha ) were significantly down-regulated by Pb and nano-TiO 2 co-exposure as compared with Pb exposure alone. The locomotion activity analyzes confirmed that nano-TiO 2 might enhance the toxicity of Pb to CNS development. These results suggest that nano-TiO 2 increase bioconcentration of lead, which lead to the disruption of thyroid endocrine and neuronal system in zebrafish larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]