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Negative longitudinal magnetoresistivity (nLMR) induced by the chiral anomaly together with the weak antilocalization (WAL) due to the quantum interference can be regarded as remarkable magnetotransport signatures for three-dimension (3D) topological semimetals. Here, we report the observation of high-temperature competition between the chiral anomaly and WAL by magnetotransport measurements on high-quality Cd 3 As 2 nanoplates under parallel electromagnetic fields. We find that, the WAL dominates the magnetotransport in the weak magnetic fields, which decreases gradually and ultimately vanishes at a critical temperature T c. In contrast, the chiral anomaly is robust against temperature and can survive up to room temperature. This competition between the chiral anomaly and WAL can be understood in terms of Berry phase, accompanying with the low carrier density in Cd 3 As 2 nanoplates. Our work would offer a better understanding of magnetotransport properties governed by Berry phase and the nature of electronic states in topological semimetals. In this work, we systematically investigated the magnetotransport properties of high-quality Cd 3 As 2 nanoplates with low carrier densities. In configuration of the parallel electromagnetic fields, we observed a large positive longitudinal magnetoconductivity (LMR) induced by WAL in zero-magnetic field limits that overwhelms nLMR induced by chiral anomaly at low temperature regions. With the increase of temperatures, the WAL is suppressed and finally vanishes at a critical temperature T c. In contrast, the chiral anomaly can survive in the high temperature regions. Furthermore, the LMR exhibiting a strong competition between chiral anomaly and WAL that can be well fitted by a semiclassically parallel conductivity formula. By careful analysis, this high temperature competition is related to the low carrier density in our Cd 3 As 2 nanoplates. [Display omitted] • In the presence of parallel electromagnetic fields, a large WAL due to the quantum interference overwhelms the chiral anomaly in zero fields limit at low temperatures. • The WAL decreases gradually with increasing the temperature and finally vanishes at T c. • In contrast, the chiral anomaly is robust against temperature and dominates the magnetotransport at high temperatures. • Both chiral anomaly and WAL can be well understood by the picture of Berry phase. • Our finding provides a better understanding of the impact of Berry phase on magnetotransport as well as the electronic structure of topological semimetals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Rapid crystallization of Zr-Beta with high Zr content possible with MCLA protocol. • Zr-Beta formed with high crystallinity and hydrophobicity. • High Zr loadings useful in MPV reduction of sterically hindered ketones and diones. • MCLA-synthesized Zr-Beta is less susceptible to poisoning by water adsorption. Heteroatom-incorporated zeolite catalysts are critical for biomass utilization and feedstock valorization in green chemistry. Key features are adjustable acidity, high stability, and a tailored range of functionalities. However, an environmentally benign synthesis of zeolites with good crystallinity and especially with high levels of metal substitution into the lattice remains challenging. Here, we propose a mechanochemistry-based liquid-assisted method (MCLA) for Zr-incorporated Beta zeolites that is high yielding, facile and sustainable. Compared with the fluoride-mediated hydrothermal method, crystallization times were considerably shortened so that Si-Beta and Zr-Beta (Si/Zr 100) zeolites can be synthesized within 9 and 15 h, respectively. Using the MCLA route, Beta zeolites with Zr loading up to 10.4 wt% (Si/Zr 12.5) were obtained. The materials have excellent catalytic activity for Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reductions with much higher water tolerance compared to Zr-Beta prepared by the post-synthesis method. The hydrophobic nature of the MCLA-synthesized zeolites makes them particularly useful as catalysts for organic reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mg incorporated into zeolite Beta framework by two-step postsynthesis procedure. • Rh3+/[MgO 4 ]2- electrostatic interactions stabilize single Rh atoms. • Catalytic efficiency of Rh/Mg-Beta due to low atomic coordination and basicity. • High selectivity in phenol hydrogenation to cyclohexanone at mild conditions. Nanoparticles are of interest in heterogeneous catalysis because of their excellent activity associated with atoms in a low coordination environment. However, their high reactivity becomes a drawback where selectivity is desired, compounded by their propensity towards agglomeration. Here, we show that stable subnanometric Rh particles can be prepared in a Mg-doped zeolite Beta based on the electrostatic interaction of the negatively charged zeolitic framework and the Rh3+ precursor. The Mg ions are incorporated into the zeolite framework whereas the Rh is located in the channels adjacent to the Mg. With only 0.27 and 0.5 wt% Mg and Rh, respectively, the Rh/Mg-Beta catalysts were highly active with > 94 % selectivity for the hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone, an important intermediate for the production of Nylon. Key to the selectivity is the formation of the C=O double bond early in the reaction sequence, aided by the basicity of the Mg-Beta support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Zr-HY is an excellent catalyst for the cascade reaction. • Hydrophobicity and cosolvents significantly accelerate the title reaction. • Ratio of open:closed Zr sites higher in Zr-HY than Zr-Beta. • IR of sorbed 2-pentanol probes hydrophobic/hydrophilic environment. Trans -anethole is an important ingredient in many flavors, fragrances and pharmaceutical formulations. Heterogeneous catalysis provides the opportunity for its green synthesis from 4′-methoxypropiophenone via a cascade of Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reduction followed by dehydration. Zr-containing zeolites were especially active catalysts. Surprisingly, Zr-HY was more active than Zr-Beta or mesoporous Zr-MSU. The effect of pore size, hydrophobicity and co-solvent has been investigated. Pyridine poisoning revealed that weak Lewis acid sites can catalyze the MPV reduction but stronger acid sites are required for the dehydration. The hydrophobicity and the ratio of open/closed Zr sites were higher for Zr-HY than Zr-Beta. Adding a moderately polar co-solvent like p -xylene more than doubled the reaction rate compared to only 2-pentanol as solvent. For an efficient cascade reaction, a hydrophobic catalyst with large micropores is required which combines hydrogen transfer and dehydration activities, together with an inert co-solvent that balances the concentration of both substrates inside the zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A highly efficient Cu/SiO 2 catalyst for non-oxidative dehydrogenation of ethanol. • Catalyst preparation by ammonia evaporation with optimum loading lends robustness. • High yields of acetaldehyde and hydrogen using 4.37% ethanol/Heat GHSV 8895 h−1. • Long catalyst lifetimewith minimal sintering and coking. While acetaldehyde is industrially produced in the Wacker process by homogeneous catalysts, a heterogeneous catalyst is so far elusive due to rapid deactivation stemming from metal sintering and coke formation. This work reports on a highly efficient, robust and stable Cu/SiO 2 catalyst for the non-oxidative dehydrogenation of ethanol prepared by the ammonia evaporation method. The highly dispersed Cu-particles are distinguished by outstanding thermal stability with very little sintering up to 600 °C. This was attributed to the strong interactions between the copper crystallites and SiO 2 arising from the intermediately formed copper phyllosilicate phase. Deactivation due to coke formation was successfully addressed by optimizing the metal loading. The CH x /Cu ratio in the used catalyst decreased by a factor of 10 as the copper loading was increased from 0.5 to 10 wt%. Samples with Cu ≥ 10 wt% demonstrated excellent activity of > 90% ethanol conversion and > 98% acetaldehyde selectivity with no observable deactivation for up to 500 h on-stream at 280 °C and a GHSV of 8895 h−1 (34,930 ml g-1h−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• One-pot cascade transformation of furfural to γ-valerolactone in open system. • Zr-HY is an excellent MPV catalyst for reduction of furfural and levulinate ester. • Variable combination of Lewis and Brønsted acidic sites in mixture of Zr-HY and Al-HY zeolites. • High yields of γ-valerolactone within short reaction times. A highly efficient catalyst system was developed for the one-pot transformation of furfural to γ -valerolactone (GVL) in an open system. The cascade of two Meerwein Ponndorf Verley (MPV) reductions, ring-opening and esterification reactions was catalyzed by a physical mixture of Zr- and Al-HY zeolites where the proportion and strength of Lewis and Brønsted acid sites could be independently optimized. The excellent activity of Zr-HY zeolites for the MPV reduction of furfural and levulinate ester with 2-pentanol as hydrogen donor was attributed to the larger pore size of HY-zeolites and stronger Lewis acidic sites compared to Zr-Beta. Al-HY zeolites were more effective as Brønsted acid than Al-Beta because they converted furfuryl ether to levulinate ester rather than to β -angelica lactone. The dual catalytic system comprising Zr-HY (Si/Zr 20) and Al-HY (Si/Al 6) exhibited remarkably high catalytic activity with GVL yields of 85% after only 5 h at 120 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A silica-supported rhodium catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone under mild conditions has been developed. As the Rh concentration on the catalyst increased from 0.5 to 15 wt%, the conversion (at phenol/Rh mole ratio 100/1) dropped whereas the initial selectivity to cyclohexanone increased. The direct hydrogenation to cyclohexanol occurred in parallel with partial hydrogenation to cyclohexanone. The negative correlation between selectivity and Rh dispersion suggests that direct hydrogenation occurs at low coordination sites whereas dissociation of phenol to phenoxy followed by hydrogenation to cyclohexanone takes place at higher coordinated terrace sites. DFT calculations revealed that the activation barrier for O–H bond cleavage is lower for phenol adsorbed on a Rh(1 1 1) flat surface than on small particles. By blocking the low coordination edge and step sites through grafting with (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane, the cyclohexanone selectivity was improved from 82 to 93% at 100% conversion. The catalyst is active at room temperature and 1 atm H 2 pressure and can be easily activated by in-situ reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction pressure in the photocatalytic conversion of CO 2 into fuels is optimized between 0 and 0.80 MPa under CO 2 and moisture. The higher reactivity of water than H 2 was observed at higher pressure and the reason was clarified using several ∼10-μm-thick semiconductor-based photocatalysts. The best Pd/TiO 2 photocatalyst produces methane with a reaction order of 0.39. The sum of independent total formation rates of C-containing compounds under UV and visible light does not account for that under UV–visible light, demonstrating synergetic reaction mechanism on Pd for CO 2 reduction by excited electrons via surface plasmon resonance and on TiO 2 for water oxidation. Active metallic Pd and O vacancy sites due to O 2 formation from H 2 O are confirmed by in situ monitoring of EXAFS [ N (Pd–Pd) = 5.9–6.2; N (Ti–O) = 5.2–3.5] and the decrease of the H-bound and bi/tri-coordinated OH peaks in FTIR. Effective redox-site separation explains the higher reactivity of water than H 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic conversion of CO 2 into fuels could mitigate global warming and energy shortage simultaneously. In this study, the reaction pressure was optimized for CO 2 reduction by H 2 . The major products were methane, CO, and methanol, and the observed catalytic activity order was Cu or Pd on TiO 2 ≫ Ag/ZrO 2 ∼ g-C 3 N 4 > Ag/Zn 3 Ga-layered double hydroxide ∼ BiOCl. Hot/excited electrons due to surface plasmon resonance could be transferred to CO 2 -derived species and the remaining positive charge could combine with excited electrons in the semiconductor. As the levels of hot/excited electrons became more negative, the catalysts became more active, except for Ag/ZrO 2 and Ag/Zn 3 Ga-LDH, probably due to lower charge separation efficiency for intrinsic semiconductors or hydroxides. The reaction order was controlled by the partial pressure of H 2 , demonstrating preferable adsorption of H on Pd. The photoconversion of CO 2 into methane was optimum at P H2 = 0.28 MPa and P CO2 = 0.12 MPa, but the rates gradually dropped at higher partial pressures due to adsorption of CO 2 being hindered by H. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we consider the Boussinesq-type equation associated with logarithmic nonlinear term and initial boundary value conditions. By using potential well method combined with the logarithmic Sobolev inequality, we obtain the existence of global solution. At last we show that the L 2 -norm of the solution will grow up as an exponential function as time goes to infinity under some suitable conditions for initial data. The result shows that the polynomial nonlinearity is a critical condition of blow-up in finite time for the solutions of Boussinesq equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we consider the Cauchy problem of two-dimensional generalized Boussinesq-type equation u t t − Δ u − Δ u t t + Δ 2 u + Δ f ( u ) = 0 . Under the assumption that f ( u ) is a function with exponential growth at infinity and under some assumptions on the initial data, we prove the existence and nonexistence of global weak solution. There are very few works on Boussinesq equation with nonlinear exponential growth term by potential well theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nanopore regulation strategy can improve the sodium storage capacity of hard carbon. • The relationship between nanopore and sodium storage capability was investigated. • Micropores hardly accommodate Na+ ions and hinder Na+ ion diffusion. • Mesopores facilitate Na+ ion intercalation and shorten the ion diffusion pathway. Hard carbon is regarded as one of the most promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries in virtue of the low cost and stable framework. However, the correlation between pore structures of hard carbon and sodium-ion storage is still ambiguous. In this work, based on precise control of pore-size distribution, the capacity, ion diffusion, and initial Coulombic efficiency were improved. Meanwhile, the relationship between pore structure and capacity was investigated. Our result indicates that the micropores hinder ion diffusion and hardly ever accommodate Na+ ions, while mesopores facilitate Na+ ion intercalation. Hard carbon with negligible micropores and abundant mesopores delivers a maximum capacity of 283.7 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1, which is 83% higher than that of micropore-rich one. Even after 320 cycles at 200 mA g−1, the capacity still remains 189.4 mAh g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimized fertilization is an effective strategy for improving nitrogen (N) use efficiency and maintaining high crop yield, but its long-term impacts on soil organic carbon (C) and inorganic N dynamics remain unclear. The objectives of this study were to 1) explore the economic optimum N rate and evaluate the DSSAT CERES-Maize model using the measurements from three 3-year maize (Zea mays L.) field experiments, in Gongzhuling and Yushu County, Northeast China, and 2) assess the long-term impacts of farmers' N rate (N250), optimum N rate (N180) and organic-inorganic combined N rate (MN180) on maize yields, soil N and C changes from 1985 to 2020. Results showed that similar maize yields of 8000–11,000 kg ha−1 were achieved under the average economic optimum N rate of 170 kg N ha−1 relative to N250 in both counties. Good agreements were observed between the simulated and measured maize yield, above-ground biomass, N uptake and soil nitrate (NO 3 −-N). Long-term simulation confirmed that N180 and MN180 can achieve the same yield as N250 in both counties. The lowest annual soil inorganic N balance, NO 3 −-N leaching, and nitrous oxide (N 2 O) and ammonia (NH 3) emissions were achieved under MN180, followed by N180 in both sites. Higher NO 3 −-N leaching was found in sandy clay loam soil than silt clay loam and clay loam soils. Average soil organic C (SOC, 0–0.2 m) increased from 1.3 to 2.4% in Gongzhuling and from 2.2 to 2.4% in Yushu under MN180 during the 35-year period, but it showed declining trends under N180 and N250. We concluded that the economic optimum N rate could be an option to replace current farmers' N rate for the continuous maize. Substitution of inorganic fertilizer by 20–30% manure under the optimum N rate showed advantage on maintaining high yield, reducing soil inorganic N losses as well as increasing SOC stock for sustainable agriculture. • Economic optimum N rate saved 23–76 kg N ha−1 compared with the maximum N rate. • DSSAT well simulated maize growth and soil N dynamics under multiple sites. • Soil N balance and SOC were simulated under long-term fertilization scenarios. • Substitution with 20–30% manure under optimum N rate maintained maize yields with high SOC and low N losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generated lattice strain induces the charge redistribution at the interface between BP and NiO, which leads to the improved electron transfer efficiency and favorable H* adsorption kinetics for photocatalytic H 2 evolution reaction. [Display omitted] • A novel multilayered heterostructure coupling BP nanosheets and NiO nanosheets with abundant interface P-Ni and P O bonds is prepared. • Due to the lattice mismatch between BP and NiO, the strain effect was introduced. • BP-NiO heterostructure with strain effect exhibits much enhanced photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity in the presence of Eosin Y. • The lattice strain induces the charge redistribution at the interface between BP and NiO, leading to the improved electron transfer efficiency and favorable H* adsorption kinetics. As an emerging post-graphene two-dimensional material, black phosphorus (BP) has attracted enormous interest as a promising cocatalyst for photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) evolution, however, the activity of either pristine bulk or BP nanosheets is far from satisfactory. Herein, we present an effective strategy to greatly boost the H 2 evolution performance of BP via applying the synergistic effect of heterojunction and interfacial lattice strain. A multilayered heterostructure coupling BP nanosheets and nickel oxide (NiO) nanosheets with abundant interface P-Ni and P O bonds is synthesized and utilized as a proof-of-concept material for our design. Both the experimental and theoretical results have revealed that the strain is formed in BP-NiO multilayered heterostructure. The generated lattice strain induces the charge redistribution at the interface between BP and NiO, which leads to the improved electron transfer efficiency and favorable H* adsorption kinetics for photocatalytic H 2 evolution reaction. As a result, the BP-NiO heterostructure with strain effect exhibits much enhanced photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity in the presence of Eosin Y (EY) as photosensitizer, exceeding that of zero-strained BP/NiO heterostructure and many other reported noble-metal-free cocatalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Co–TCPP was covalently anchored on TiO 2 surface. • Co–TCPP–TiO 2 photoproduced 13CO at a rate of 17 μmol h−1 g cat −1 from 13CO 2 and H 2. • 13CO formation rate using Co–TCPP–TiO 2 decreased to 12 % after 9 h of photoreaction. • Deactivated Co–TCPP–TiO 2 was reactivated under ethanol and UV–visible light. • Reactivated Co–TCPP–TiO 2 photoproducted 13CO at a rate of 63 μmol h−1 g cat −1. Porphyrin and its derivatives have been often used for electrochemical and photocatalysis combined with first-row transition metals for sustainable applications. Cobalt–tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (Co–TCPP) was covalently anchored onto TiO 2. Under CO 2 , H 2 , and UV–visible light irradiation, Co–TCPP anchored on TiO 2 produced CO at a rate of 2.5 μmol h−1 (using 100 mg of catalyst and UV–visible light of 118 mW cm−2) when the Co–TCPP content was 2.5 wt %; however, the CO formation rate dropped to 0.3 μmol h−1 (using 100 mg of catalyst and the same intensity of light). The photoactivity drop to 12 % was solved by removing the hydroxy ligands coordinated to the central Co ions through ethanol treatment for 5 min of the Co–TCPP–TiO 2 photocatalysts. This resulted in an increased CO photoformation rate to 7.3 μmol h−1 (using 100 mg of catalyst and the same intensity of light) because the dispersion of the J- and/or H-aggregates to the isolated Co–TCPP unit proceeded more with ethanol treatment and under UV–visible light. Conversely, to use ethanol as reductant was not effective because it reduced and deactivated Co–TCPP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A Co 3 O 4 -Bi 2 O 3 -Ti catalytic membrane was facilely fabricated. • The membrane efficiently activated PMS to degrade organic pollutants continuously. • Reactive oxidative species and non-radical electron transfer were involved. • The catalytic membrane showed excellent reusability. In this study, a functionalized Co 3 O 4 -Bi 2 O 3 -Ti catalytic membrane (CBO-Ti-M) was prepared and applied for removing organic pollutants via activating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) in the dead-end filtration mode. Characterizations including scanning electron microcopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed that the Co 3 O 4 -Bi 2 O 3 catalyst was successfully supported on the Ti membrane. The CBO-Ti-M /PMS system could efficiently remove various organic pollutants such as sulfamethoxazole, methyl orange, bisphenol A and methylene blue, achieving removal efficiencies of 98.0%-99.5%. The effects of PMS concentration, flow rate and solution environment on degradation efficiency were investigated in detail. Furthermore, quenching experiments, electron spin resonance (ESR) and in-situ open circuit potential (OCP) tests collectively demonstrated that singlet oxygen as well as the non-radical electron transfer pathway mainly contributed in the reaction mechanism. The synergistic effect of Co and Bi was illustrated according to XPS results, and the possible degradation pathway of MB was proposed based on LC-MS analysis. Reusability test showed that pollutant removal efficiency with the CBO-Ti-M /PMS system remained stable in four runs and limited metal leaching was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular interactions and mechanisms between four ethyl esters (ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, and ethyl octanoate) and myofibrillar proteins (MPs) were investigated. The gas chromatography and mass spectrometry results showed that binding capability was significantly enhanced as MP concentrations increased (p < 0.05). The four esters bound to MPs (6 mg/mL) with: ethyl octanoate > ethyl hexanoate > ethyl butanoate > ethyl acetate (p < 0.05), according to their binding capabilities. Moreover, hydrogen bonding was the dominant reversible physicochemical force between the MPs and ethyl esters. In addition, ethyl octanoate was the best MP fluorescence quenchera, and the static quenching performed a more predominant role in the fluorescence quenching process. Furthermore, the MPs' α-helix content gradually decreased as the concentration of ethyl octanoate was increased. Finally, the molecular docking and dynamic simulation verified that hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces were the primary driving forces in the myosin-ethyl octanoate complex. This study sheds light on the interactions between proteins and ester compounds facilitating flavor regulation in protein-rich foods. • Myofibrillar protein (MP) concentrations affected MPs-ester binding capabilities. • Ester characteristics affected MPs-ester binding capabilities. • MPs-ethyl octanoate binding resulted in static fluorescence quenching. • Conformation of MPs was changed by interactions with ethyl octanoate. • Hydrogen bonding and Van der Waals forces were the main reversible interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ultrafine Pt-based intermetallic catalyst synthesized by in situ LRM strategy. • The electron-rich and isolated features of Pt sites in the Pt-based catalyst. • A superior catalytic performance for anti-Markovnikov alkene hydrosilylation. Regulating electronic structure of active centres to improve the performance of catalysts has always been a notable research topic, in which many challenges still need to be solved urgently. Herein, we report a PtFe 3 intermetallic catalyst anchored on N-doped carbon spheres (PtFe 3 /CN) with electron-rich isolated Pt active sites. The electron-rich nature of isolated Pt sites is attributed to the coordination of low electronegativity iron atoms. The PtFe 3 /CN catalyst showed a catalytic performance for the hydrosilylation of alkene superior to traditional single-atom Pt catalyst (coordinate with N etc. atoms) loading on N-doped graphene carbon (Pt1/CN) with electron-deficient isolated Pt sites and Pt nanoparticles supported N-doped carbon spheres (Pt NPs/CN) catalysts with the contiguous Pt sites. More importantly, turnover number (TON) of alkene hydrosilylation can reach a striking ca. 740,000 and no Pt leaching was detected. The opinion has been substantiated by both experimental and theoretical results that the PtFe 3 /CN catalyst can completely catalyze conversion of alkene and exhibit a high selectivity for anti-Markovnikov addition under environmentally friendly and mild conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sucrose and phytic acid as abundant biomass resources have been combined for the fabrication of highly porous carbons with surface areas up to 1897 m2/g through hydrothermal carbonization and phytic acid-induced in-situ activation in the absence of additional activation agents. The carbons were employed as efficient adsorbents for the adsorptive removal of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) from water and the adsorption of dibenzothiophene (DBT) from model fuels. Kinetic and isotherm studies were performed for both processes. The effect of pH and ionic strength on SMX adsorption as well as the effect of arene on DBT adsorption was also investigated. By comparing the two adsorption processes, it was found that heteroatom doping could promote DBT adsorption obviously, but its effect on SMX adsorption was less straightforward. This was mainly attributed to the divergent solution media and thus the different adsorption mechanisms between aqueous and non-aqueous adsorption processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addition of different (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) (0, 100, 200, 500 or 1000 mg/L emulsion) on the interfacial composition and protein-lipid co-oxidation of whey protein isolate (WPI)-stabilised oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions were studied, and underlying mechanisms were also explored. The results indicated that the physical stability of emulsions gradually decreased with the increasing level of EGCG during storage, which clearly verified by decreasing ζ-potential absolute values and increasing droplet size. Moreover, the combination between WPI and EGCG by covalent/non-covalent binding for either adsorbed proteins (AP) or unadsorbed proteins (UAP) led to aggregation and conformational changes in WPI, which confirmed and characterised by electrophoresis, fluorescence quenching, and molecular docking simulation. Meanwhile, the concentration of AP slightly decreased as a function of EGCG level and storage time, however, the UAP showed the opposite change tendency, indicating that EGCG could effectively modulate the interfacial adsorption property of WPI in O/W emulsions. In addition, the incorporation of EGCG efficiently suppressed protein-lipid co-oxidation of O/W emulsions during storage, which was illustrated by hierarchical cluster and correlation analysis between protein and lipid oxidation products. Our results clearly revealed the viability of the EGCG to modulate the interfacial composition and retard the co-oxidation of O/W emulsions with enhanced storability. • Higher levels of EGCG decreased the physical stability of O/W emulsions. • EGCG can alter the structure and molecular mass of whey protein isolate (WPI). • EGCG can bind to WPI mainly via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. • EGCG could modulate the interfacial adsorption properties of WPI in O/W emulsions. • Incorporation of EGCG suppressed the protein-lipid co-oxidation of O/W emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxides (LDH) are prepared by controlling urea assisted homogeneous precipitation conditions. Morphology and crystallinity of LDHs are confirmed by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. After LDHs are incorporated into quaternized polysulfone membranes, transmission electron microscope is used to observe the exfoliated morphology of LDH sheets in the membranes. The properties of the nanocomposite membranes, including water uptake, swelling ratio, mechanical property and ionic conductivity are investigated. The nanocomposite membrane containing 5% LDH sheets shows more balanced performances, exhibiting an ionic conductivity of 2.36×10 −2 S cm −1 at 60 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining ecosystem services (ESs) and reducing ecosystem degradation are important goals for achieving sustainable development. However, under the influence of various anthropogenic factors, the total ecosystem service value (ESV) of China continues to decline, and the detailed processes involved in this decline are unclear. In this paper, a new long-term annual land cover dataset (the Climate Change Initiative Land Cover or CCI-LC dataset) with a spatial resolution of 300 m was employed to estimate the ESV of China, and Bayesian spatiotemporal hierarchy models were built to examine the detailed patterns and anthropogenic driving factors. From 1992 to 2018, the total ESV of China fluctuated and decreased from 3265.3 to 3253.29 billion US$ at an average rate of 0.55 billion US$ per year. Furthermore, the model revealed the spatiotemporal variations in the ESV pattern, and simultaneously detected the influences of 9 variables related to economic factors, population, infrastructure, energy, agriculture and ecological restoration, providing a convenient and effective method for ESV spatiotemporal analysis. The results enrich our understanding of the detailed spatiotemporal variation and anthropogenic driving factors underlying the declining ESV in China. These findings have substantial guiding implications for adjusting ecological regulation policies. • The annual ESVs of China from 1992 to 2018 was estimated. • China's total ESV showed a trend of decline and fluctuation. • The Bayesian spatiotemporal hierarchy model was constructed for ESV analysis. • The hot and cold provinces of ESV spatial distribution were identified. • The effects of 9 variables from anthropogenic driving factors on ESV were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining ecosystem services (ESs) and reducing ecosystem degradation are important goals for achieving sustainable development. However, under the influence of various anthropogenic factors, the total ecosystem service value (ESV) of China continues to decline, and the detailed processes involved in this decline are unclear. In this paper, a new long-term annual land cover dataset (the Climate Change Initiative Land Cover or CCI-LC dataset) with a spatial resolution of 300 m was employed to estimate the ESV of China, and Bayesian spatiotemporal hierarchy models were built to examine the detailed patterns and anthropogenic driving factors. From 1992 to 2018, the total ESV of China fluctuated and decreased from 3265.3 to 3253.29 billion US$ at an average rate of 0.55 billion US$ per year. Furthermore, the model revealed the spatiotemporal variations in the ESV pattern, and simultaneously detected the influences of 9 variables related to economic factors, population, infrastructure, energy, agriculture and ecological restoration, providing a convenient and effective method for ESV spatiotemporal analysis. The results enrich our understanding of the detailed spatiotemporal variation and anthropogenic driving factors underlying the declining ESV in China. These findings have substantial guiding implications for adjusting ecological regulation policies. • The annual ESVs of China from 1992 to 2018 was estimated. • China's total ESV showed a trend of decline and fluctuation. • The Bayesian spatiotemporal hierarchy model was constructed for ESV analysis. • The hot and cold provinces of ESV spatial distribution were identified. • The effects of 9 variables from anthropogenic driving factors on ESV were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional dry sausage is highly appreciated in China because of its unique quality characteristics, but it contains high salt content. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) comprising Lactobacillus sakei (LS), Lactobacillus curvatus (LC), Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), and Weissella hellenica (WH) on the quality attributes of the reduced-salt dry fermented sausages. The results indicated that the LP sausage showed higher (P < 0.05) shear force value compared to the other sausages, while the LP, LC, and WH sausages had higher (P < 0.05) lightness values than the control sausages. Seventy-six volatile compounds were detected, and nine compounds were identified as the key differential volatile compounds among the sausages based on partial least squares discriminant analysis. Clustering analysis of electronic nose results corresponded well to the volatile compound results. The sensory evaluation confirmed that the inoculation with LC and LP had a positive impact on the aroma, color, and hardness attributes of the reduced-salt sausages. Besides, partial least squares regression analysis further indicated that L. curvatus and L. plantarum could be used as the potential starter cultures to manufacture reduced-salt dry fermented sausage having improved texture, color, and flavor. [Display omitted] • The LP sausage shows higher shear force value compared to the other sausages. • The LP, LC, and WH sausages have higher lightness values than the control sausages. • Seventy-six volatile compounds are detected in dry fermented sausage. • Sensory attributes correlate with the key volatile compounds using PLSR analysis. • L. curvatus and L. plantarum can improve the quality of reduced-salt dry sausage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urbanization in China has worsened the sustainable utilization of limited cultivated land resources, which seriously threatens food security and ecological security. To realize maximum benefits and minimize environmental pollution, the eco-efficiency of cultivated land utilization (ECLU) is becoming a vital indicator in weighing the rationality of regional land use. However, conceptualization of the ECLU remains lacking, while assessments of this indicator are still incomplete. This lack of information may inhibit planning guideline for the sustainable development of cultivated land resources. Thus, this study attempts to fill this gap by customizing a new conceptual index system for the ECLU and measuring it using the slack-based measure with undesirable output (SBM-Undesirable) model in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) during the period 2001–2018. Spatial econometric models were used to further analyze the influencing factors of the ECLU. The average ECLU value in the YREB declined from 2001 to 2004, and then rapidly trended upward in 2005–2018. The lower reaches had the highest efficiency, followed by the middle and upper reaches, with respective values of 0.494, 0.628, and 0.683. The spatial–temporal pattern of the ECLU reveals that the number of areas with low and medium-low efficiency decreased gradually, while the number of areas with medium-high and high efficiency increased continuously. The magnitude and direction of influencing factors indicates that socioeconomic development level, agricultural science and technology investments, carbon emission reducing, and agricultural pollution control could effectively improve the ECLU. These findings have important implications for promoting high-efficient, low-carbon utilization of cultivated land resources and sustainable regional development in China. [Display omitted] • A new conceptual index system for ECLU's measurement was customized. • The average ECLU value in the YREB declined from 2001 to 2004, and then rapidly trended upward in 2005–2018. • Spatial econometric models were adopted to investigate influencing factors of the ECLU. • Attentions should be paid to achieve highly efficient utilization of cultivated land and sustainable regional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study a distributionally robust risk optimization (DRRO) problem where the information on the probability distribution of the underlying random variables is incomplete. But it is possible to use partial information to construct an ambiguity set of probability distributions. In some cases, decision vector x may have a direct impact on the likelihood of the underlying random events that occur after the decision is taken, which motivates us to propose an ambiguity set to be parametric and decision-dependent. To conduct quantitative stability analysis of the optimal value function and the optimal solution mapping of the DRRO problem, we derive error bounds results for the parametrized ambiguity set under the total variation metric and investigate Lipschitz continuity of the objective function of the DRRO problem under some conditions. As an application, we demonstrate that the two-stage stochastic linear semi-definite programs satisfy these conditions and then apply results obtained to it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-made micro-electrolysis-circulatory system with the mixture regime of an upflow bed and reactor was tested for the pretreatment of industrial estate wastewater with a low ratio of biological to chemical oxygen demand (BOD 5 /COD) at room temperature, 1:1 vol ratio of sponge iron (SFe)/granular activated carbon (GAC), and an intermittent process in aeration and discharge. The system efficiency was evaluated in view of the effects of various processes (hydraulic retention time (HRT), fillers/wastewater ratio (S/L) and aeration). COD reduction of about 51% was obtained for industrial estate wastewater at an S/L ratio of 25%, refluence rate of 16 L/h, HRT of 24 h, and aeration of 60 L/h as the optimal conditions. The considerable change in the calculated BOD 5 /COD ratio, from 0.07 to 0.49, showed favorable application of the micro-electrolysis-circulatory system for the reductive and oxidative degradation of organic pollutants to enhance wastewater biodegradability. The reusability of the SFe was also investigated after three successive runs. On the basis of the results of Fe leaching, HRT, S/L ratio, scanning electron microscopy observation, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis, the corrosion products facilitated by the inherent porosity of SFe played a significant role due to different oxygen conditions in the surface and internal layers. One result from the removal of organic pollutants dominated by the galvanic cell reactions between SFe and GAC was observed, and the integration coagulation in the bulk solution was mainly attributed to the leaching of Fe. The innovative approach described in this study provides a promising and economical technology for pretreatment of industrial wastewater prior to a biological process. • The micro-electrolysis-circulatory system was capable of elevating biodegradability of industrial estate wastewater. • The optimal conditions for COD removal were in excellent agreement with the real values. • It was very easy to regenerate SFe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]