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Heterogeneous construction waste such as masonry rubble has potential as a raw material for the production of lightweight aggregates similar to expanded clays or even pumice. In the present paper, the suitability of feedstocks with considerable gypsum contents was investigated in a pilot plant. Based on the results, initial technological statements could be made. According to these, energetic advantages can be expected in comparison with lightweight aggregates made from expanded clays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water quality parameters from 2000 to 2020 were used to identify the spatial and temporal sulfate variations in estuaries of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. Sulfate enrichment relative to conservative mixing was found to be associated with a low river discharge period from 2012 to 2014 in all estuaries. Based on reaction stoichiometry, sedimentary sulfide oxidation holds significant potential for reducing the alkalinity in estuarine waters. However, during this extreme drought, alkalinity enrichment was also occasionally observed in some of the southern estuaries along with sulfate enrichment, and when alkalinity depletion occurred, the magnitude of depletion was usually much less than what would be expected based on sulfide oxidation alone. This discrepancy can be partially explained by carbonate dissolution and other proton removal pathways (e.g., Fe‐oxide dissolution), and by the uncertainties in the model used to estimate alkalinity enrichment/depletion. Under a changing climate, the close coupling between river discharge variation and estuarine sulfate dynamics will significantly impact estuarine carbonate chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: GABAA receptors are regulated by numerous classes of allosteric modulators. However, regulation of receptor macroscopic desensitisation remains largely unexplored and may offer new therapeutic opportunities. Here, we report the emerging potential for modulating desensitisation with analogues of the endogenous inhibitory neurosteroid, pregnenolone sulfate. Experimental Approach: New pregnenolone sulfate analogues were synthesised incorporating various heterocyclic substitutions located at the C‐21 position on ring D. The pharmacological profiles of these compounds were assessed using electrophysiology and recombinant GABAA receptors together with mutagenesis, molecular dynamics simulations, structural modelling and kinetic simulations. Key Results: All seven analogues retained a negative allosteric modulatory capability whilst exhibiting diverse potencies. Interestingly, we observed differential effects on GABA current decay by compounds incorporating either a six‐ (compound 5) or five‐membered heterocyclic ring (compound 6) on C‐21, which was independent of their potencies as inhibitors. We propose that differences in molecular charges, and the targeted binding of analogues to specific states of the GABAA receptor, are the most likely cause of the distinctive functional profiles. Conclusions and Implications: Our findings reveal that heterocyclic addition to inhibitory neurosteroids not only affected their potency and macroscopic efficacy but also affected innate receptor mechanisms that underlie desensitisation. Acute modulation of macroscopic desensitisation will determine the degree and duration of GABA inhibition, which are vital for the integration of neural circuit activity. Discovery of this form of modulation could present an opportunity for next‐generation GABAA receptor drug design and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impacts of cloud mixing and uptake on wet scavenging are not adequately resolved in global models which can lead to an overestimation of the removal of water‐soluble gases and aerosols from the atmosphere. To address this issue, we develop and implement novel parameterizations to consider the impacts of these processes. Our analysis of vertical profiles of nitric acid, inorganic nitrate, ammonium, and sulfate concentrations during the Atmospheric Tomography Mission periods indicates that air refreshing limitation has a significant impact above 800 hPa, while cloud ice uptake limitation plays an important role above 500 hPa. Incorporating these two processes resulted in a reduction of wet depositions of these species across source regions and a slight increase in their downwind regions. Wet depositions of nitrate, ammonium, and sulfate were reduced in source regions by 22.7%, 8.4%, and 8.3%, respectively and increased in downwind regions by 10.1%, 7.0%, and 4.3%, respectively. Plain Language Summary: Atmospheric species in cloud‐free or rain‐free air need time to be transported and mixed with those in cloudy or rainy air before being influenced by wet scavenging. Additionally, the efficiency of rainout of water‐soluble aerosols for cold clouds is expected to be limited by cloud ice uptake. The removal of water‐soluble aerosols from cold clouds only occurs when they are taken up by ice crystals. However, current models do not adequately address these two processes. In this study, we derived new approaches that consider the effects of air refreshing and cloud ice uptake limitations on wet scavenging. We found that these new approaches have significant impacts on the vertical profiles and wet deposition fluxes of nitrate, ammonium, and sulfate. Key Points: Air refreshing and cloud ice uptake limitations are not well resolved in global modelsAir refreshing limitation impacts vertical concentration profiles <800 hPa, while cloud ice uptake limitation is important above 500 hPaIn combination, the two processes reduced wet depositions across source regions and slightly increased wet depositions in downwind regions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of polysaccharide sulfates without harmful solvents used is a serious environmental problem. A method for the synthesis of xylan sulfate using the sulfamic acid–urea melt as a sulfating agent without solvents is proposed. The melt is prepared by heating the sulfamic acid–urea mixture with a molar ratio of 1 : 1 at a temperature of 110 °C. This ratio allows significant reduction of side reactions, in particular, carbamation of xylan. Sulfation is carried out at temperatures of 110,115, 120, 125, and 130 °C. The maximum yield and degree of substitution (DSsulfate 1.40) are attained at atemperature of 115 °C. The proposed method makes it possible to synthesize xylan sulfate rapidly (for 0.5 h) and without contamination of the obtained product with toxic solvents, e. g., dimethyl sulfoxide, pyridine, etc. The composition and structure of initial and sulfated xylan are confirmed by FTIR, NMR, GC, and elemental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Doping is the use of prohibited substances by athletes to improve their performance. World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA)‐accredited laboratories require various metabolite reference standards of the prohibited chemical substances or drugs for routine quality control. Therefore, it was proposed to develop efficient synthetic methodologies for highly pure reference materials of Phase II metabolites of octopamine, norfenefrine and etilefrine, which are prohibited in sports by WADA under the S6 stimulant category. The reference materials were characterized using various analytical techniques. New high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection (HPLC‐DAD) methods were developed for purity assessment. RESULTS: The synthesized Phase II metabolite reference standards, i.e. octopamine sulfate, norfenefrine sulfate and etilefrine sulfate, were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared and thermogravimetric analysis. In the LC‐HRMS study, the mass error value of synthesized compounds was less than 10 ppm (error) which confirms the identity of the reference materials. New HPLC‐DAD method were developed to ensure the purity of the reference materials. We used the HILIC column as metabolite reference standards are highly polar. The mobile phase was composed of water and acetonitrile in fixed composition. The HPLC‐DAD purity of the developed reference materials was observed as 100%. CONCLUSION: We have developed reproducible synthetic routes for octopamine sulfate, norfenefrine sulfate and etilefrine sulfate, which are prohibited in sports by WADA. The synthesized metabolites were characterized using different advanced analytical techniques. These reference standards will be helpful to all WADA‐accredited laboratories in routine anti‐doping testing. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of biochar supported nano‐zero valent iron (nZVI/BC) on anaerobic digestion of sulfate wastewater including methane yield, total volatile fatty acids, COD balance, sulfur balance, variation of iron (Fe2+) and microbial community structure was investigated by a batch‐scale experiment. The results showed that nZVI/BC could effectively maintain the stability of anaerobic digestion even at a high sulfate concentration. At SO42−/COD = 0.1 with 2 g nZVI/BC, the maximum methane yield (Bmax) and maximum methane production rate (Rmax) were obtained with a value of 3940.6648 mL and 553.6266 mL/day, respectively. When the SO42−/COD ratio was increased from 0.1 to 2, the ratio of COD converting to CH4 was decreased from 80.85% to 20.16%, while the ratio of COD used for SO42− reduction was increased from 8.79% to 77.96%. Meanwhile, nZVI/BC could enrich the hydrogentrophic Methanobacterium especially Methanobacterium with an average relative abundance of 75.86%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effect of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and calcium hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)2] on the bond strength to pulp chamber dentin when followed or not by the use of sodium thiosulfate (Na2S2O3). The pulp chamber of fifty human molars were divided into five groups (n = 10) according to the immersion protocol: 2.5% NaOCl; 2.5% NaOCl + 5% Na2S2O3; 2.5% Ca(OCl)2; 2.5% Ca(OCl)2 + 5% Na2S2O3; and 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl; control). Subsequently, the samples were restored with resin composite. Three sticks each were obtained and subjected to microtensile testing. SEM/EDS analyses of the pulp chamber roof (n = 8) were carried out for mineral quantification. Elemental analysis data were investigated via one‐way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc, and bond strength data by post hoc pairwise comparisons using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Use of 2.5% NaOCl was associated with the lowest value of bond strength, while 2.5% Ca(OCl)2 had similar bond strength to that of the 0.9% NaCl control. Using 5% Na2S2O3 was able to increase the bond strength after 2.5% NaOCl, but not after 2.5% Ca(OCl)2. The group treated only with 2.5% Ca(OCl)2 had a higher Ca/P ratio on the dentin surface. Dentin treated with Ca(OCl)2 was not affected by Na2S2O3 and showed bond strength similar to the 0.9% NaCl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are associated with worsening health outcomes and effective treatment of each episode is essential. In this study, we aimed to investigate if plasma levels of heparan sulphate (HS) are associated with the aetiology of AECOPD. Methods: COPD patients (N = 1189), GOLD grade II–IV, from a discovery cohort (N = 638) and from a validation cohort (N = 551), were included in the study. HS and heparanase (HSPE‐1) were measured longitudinally in plasma at stable state, at AECOPD and at 4 weeks follow‐up. Results: Plasma HS was higher in patients with COPD as compared with non‐COPD controls and was significantly increased at AECOPD as compared to stable state (p < 0.001) in the discovery and in the validation cohorts. Four distinct exacerbation groups were classified based on aetiology (no‐infection/bacterial‐infection/viral‐infection/bacterial and viral coinfection) in the validation cohort. The fold‐increase of HS from stable state to AECOPD was associated with the aetiology of exacerbation and was higher in cases with bacterial and viral coinfections. HSPE‐1 was also significantly increased at AECOPD, however, there was no association of HSPE‐1 levels with the aetiology of these events. The probability of having an infection at AECOPD was raised as HS levels increased from stable state to AECOPD. This probability was higher for bacterial infections than viral infections. Conclusion: The results of our study indicate that circulating levels of HS are increased at AECOPD and this increase may be associated with the aetiology of these events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: We report a case of imported taeniasis, under the modality of "visiting friends and relatives", in the context of colon hydrotherapy. This technique allows the detection of proglottids, diagnosed in this case as Taenia saginata based on the gravid proglottid that presented more than 13 uterine branches and showed active motility. Moreover, the patient did not consume pork for religious reasons. The treatment with paromomicin sulfate was effective. In this case, a trip to Ethiopia, together with the ingestion of raw beef, was the cause of parasitization. It is highly advisable to obtain detailed information from the patient on their background, especially their travel and dietary histories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection of anions in complex aqueous media is a fundamental challenge with practical utility that can be addressed by supramolecular chemistry. Biomolecular hosts such as proteins can be used and adapted as an alternative to synthetic hosts. Here, we report how the mutagenesis of the β‐bulge residues (D137 and W138) in mNeonGreen, a bright, monomeric fluorescent protein, unlocks and tunes the anion preference at physiological pH for sulfate, resulting in the turn‐off sensor SulfOFF‐1. This unprecedented sensing arises from an enhancement in the kinetics of binding, largely driven by position 138. In line with these data, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations capture how the coordinated entry and gating of sulfate into the β‐barrel is eliminated upon mutagenesis to facilitate binding and fluorescence quenching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an attempt has been carried out to fabricate ion‐selective electrodes (ISEs) for the determination of Atropine sulfate (AT) in pharmaceutical formulas. Three plasticizers; namely, di‐n‐butyl phthalate (DBP), bis (2‐ethyl hexyl) phthalate (BEP), nitrobenzene (NB), and tetrahydrofuran (THF) were used in the fabrication of the three ion selective electrodes after incorporating into polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and symbolized as E1, E2, and E3, respectively. Beyond evaluation of the three ISEs, it has been confirmed that one with DBP experienced the most Nernstian behaviour. For the electrode of interest, the slope and detection limit are 55.02 mV/decade and 1.1×10−6 M, respectively. The linear range was 1.0×10−2–1.0×10−5 M (R2=0.9999) with recording 5 s and 45 days; sequentially, for the response time and shelf life of E1 electrode. The sensor has experienced high selectivity for atropine sulfate, verifying from the selectivity coefficient data for a number of potential interferences. The statistical analysis using t‐test and F‐test indicates the eligibility of constructed electrode for utilization in field of pharmaceutical analysis. A satisfactory accordance has been obtained between the proposed electrode for atropine sulfate and the standard method. This methodology is supposed to be applicable in quality control and even clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two cap carbonates overlying Cryogenian panglacial deposits are found in North‐East Svalbard of which the younger (635 Ma) forms the base of the Ediacaran Period. It is represented by a transgressive succession in which laminated dolostone, typically around 20 m thick (Member D1), is succeeded transitionally by a similar thickness of impure carbonates (Member D2). In Spitsbergen, there is evidence of microbially influenced sediment stabilisation and carbonate precipitation in the lower part of D1, whilst the upper part of D1 and D2 show centimetre‐decimetre‐scale graded units with undulatory lamination interpreted as evidence of storm activity. Carbonate originated as possible freshwater whitings, as well as microbial precipitates. Exhumed and eroded hardgrounds display replacive 10–30 μm dolomite crystals with cathodoluminescence characteristics consistent with early diagenetic manganese and iron reduction. Regionally, carbon isotope values consistently decrease by around 2‰ from around −3‰ over 30 m of section which is both a temporal and a bathymetric signal, but not a global one. An exponential decline in carbonate production predicted by box models is fitted by a semi‐quantitative sedimentation model. A mass‐anomalous 17O depletion in carbonate‐associated sulphate in dolomite, inherited from precursor calcite, decreases from −0.6 to −0.3‰ in the basal 15 m of section and then approaches background values. The post‐glacial anomalous 17O depletion in carbonate‐associated sulphate and barite elsewhere has been interpreted in terms of ultra‐high pCO2 at the onset of deglaciation. Such anomalies, with larger amplitude, have been reported in Svalbard from underlying lacustrine and tufaceous limestones representing a hyperarid glacial environment. The anomalous sulphate could be produced contemporarily, or the internally drained landscape may have continued to release 17O‐anomalous sulphate as it was transgressed during cap carbonate deposition. The late Cryogenian to earliest Ediacaran record in Svalbard provides the most complete record of the basal 17O‐depletion event in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of scale inhibition in thermal power plants using mine water as circulating cooling water is a major focus of current engineering attention. Mine water in North China is predominantly high sulfate mine water, with mine water in Shanxi mines generally having a sulfate content of over 1000 mg/L. Currently, most thermal power plants blindly follow the previous scale inhibitor with carbonate scale as the main scale inhibition target, which leads to a large amount of sulfate scale in its circulating cooling system, which is difficult to remove after the formation of sulfate scale. On the basis of the experiments, the corresponding scale inhibition laws were studied using the response surface method for the water quality characteristics of high sulfate mine water. The scaling process on the heat exchange surface of the circulating cooling water system was simulated by the hanging sheet deposition method, and the quantitative analysis was carried out by the weight method. Using EDTMPS as an example, the scale inhibition law of sulfate‐type scale inhibitors for this type of mine water was systematically investigated. The experiments showed that the scale inhibition rate (reduction of deposited scale after scale inhibitor dosing) reached a peak of 95.21% at a time of 6.1 h, a solution temperature of 70°C and an EDTMPS dosing rate of 6 mg/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate (SO42−) sources are unclear leading to the underestimation of its concentration in the model. Hourly resolution δ34S‐SO2 and δ34S‐SO42− values of three haze episodes (EP1‐EP3) were synchronously collected for the first time to quantify the influence of 34S fractionation from emission sources (e.g., coal combustion) and SO2 atmospheric oxidation on SO2/SO42− source apportionment. After considering the 34S fractionation from coal combustion and atmospheric oxidation, the reasonable and logical source contributions of SO42− were obtained, showing highly consistent with that of Positive Matrix Factorization model results. Considering the 34S fraction from atmospheric oxidation, the source apportionment of SO2/SO42− obtained by hourly resolution δ34S‐SO2 and δ34S‐SO42− can more accurately reflect the dynamic changes of emission sources. Traffic emissions (49%) and coal combustion (46%–65%) were the major contributors to SO2/SO42− in EP1 and EP2‐EP3, respectively. However, obvious deviations of coal combustion contribution were found without considering 34S fractionation from coal combustion. Especially for the northwest transmission channels in EP2‐EP3, the deviation values accounted for 17.1%–38.5% of secondary SO42−. Moreover, δ34S was considered as a more sensitive source indicator than SO2 concentration by the results comparison of 34S technique and air quality model (Nested Air Quality Prediction Model System), which can provide more reliable evidence for SO2 emission control. Plain Language Summary: Inadequate understanding of sulfate (SO42−) sources leads to the deviation of its concentration prediction in the model. Based on the hourly resolution δ34S values of SO2 and SO42− during three haze episodes, this study investigated the influence of 34S fractionation from emission sources and the SO2 oxidation process on the source contributions of SO42−. We found that the source contributions of SO42− were more reasonable when considered the 34S fractionation from coal combustion and SO2 atmospheric oxidation, which were similar to the results of Positive Matrix Factorization model. Considering the 34S fractionation from SO2 oxidation process, we also obtained the dynamic source contributions of SO42− in haze episodes, showing traffic emission (49%) and coal combustion (46%–65%) as the major contributors to SO42− in EP1 and EP2‐EP3, respectively. Otherwise, ignoring the 34S fractionation from coal combustion, the contribution of coal combustion to SO42− showed great deviations (17.1%–38.5% of secondary SO42−). Finally, the result comparisons of SO42− sources between 34S and air quality model showed 34S as a more sensitive source indicator than SO2 concentration to trace the source emission and make emission reduction measures in the future. Key Points: Reasonable and logical source contributions of SO42− were obtained with considering the 34S fractionation effects from coal combustion and atmospheric oxidation processesEvidence from 34S showed that traffic emission and coal combustion were major contributors to SO42− in EP1 and EP2‐EP3, respectivelyCompared with SO2 concentration, 34S is a more sensitive index to trace the SO2/SO42− emission sources in the future [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anhydrite (CaSO4) and calcite (CaCO3) are two of the main mineral structures on which there is no longer any discussion today. The problem is different when it comes to analyzing the crystal chemical relationships between them and, in particular, the crystallography arising at the epitaxial interfaces between Ca sulfates (deposits) and the peculiar {10.4} form of cleaved calcite (substrate). Recently, Ca sulfates replacing calcite have acquired great importance in addressing the epitaxy challenge. The crystallographic epi‐interactions between CaSO4·2H2O gypsum and CaSO4·0.5H2O bassanite and the {10.4} form of calcite have already been analyzed in detail by this research group [Aquilano et al. (2022). CrystEngComm, 24, 5120–5127; Aquilano et al. (2022). J. Appl. Cryst.55, 1289–1296] (parts I and II, respectively). This work is intended to complete the research, presenting the re‐evaluation (part III) of anhydrite (CaSO4) epitaxially matching on the {10.4} rhombohedron of calcite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peatlands are among the largest natural sources of atmospheric methane (CH4) worldwide. Microbial processes play a key role in regulating CH4 emissions from peatland ecosystems, yet the complex interplay between soil substrates and microbial communities in controlling CH4 emissions as a function of global change remains unclear. Herein, we performed an integrated analysis of multi‐omics data sets to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular processes driving changes in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in peatland ecosystems with increasing temperature and sulfate deposition in a laboratory incubation study. We sought to first investigate how increasing temperatures (4, 21, and 35°C) impact soil microbiome–metabolome interactions; then explore the competition between methanogens and sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRBs) with increasing sulfate concentrations at the optimum temperature for methanogenesis. Our results revealed that peat soil organic matter degradation, mediated by biotic and potentially abiotic processes, is the main driver of the increase in CO2 production with temperature. In contrast, the decrease in CH4 production at 35°C was linked to the absence of syntrophic communities and the potential inhibitory effect of phenols on methanogens. Elevated temperatures further induced the microbial communities to develop high growth yield and stress tolerator trait‐based strategies leading to a shift in their composition and function. On the other hand, SRBs were able to outcompete methanogens in the presence of non‐limiting sulfate concentrations at 21°C, thereby reducing CH4 emissions. At higher sulfate concentrations, however, the prevalence of communities capable of producing sufficient low‐molecular‐weight carbon substrates for the coexistence of SRBs and methanogens was translated into elevated CH4 emissions. The use of omics in this study enhanced our understanding of the structure and interactions among microbes with the abiotic components of the system that can be useful for mitigating GHG emissions from peatland ecosystems in the face of global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogensulfate‐sulfates Ln(HSO4)(SO4) (Ln: Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy) have been crystallized from sulfuric acid and their thermal decomposition behavior has been studied. The crystal structures for all members of the series were refined from X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction data (for all: Tb(HSO4)(SO4) structure type, P21, Z=2, a≈6.66 Å, b≈6.63 Å, c≈6.82 Å, β≈104.6°). Optical spectra (Sm–Dy) and magnetic susceptibilities (Eu–Dy) have been measured. For comparison the octahydrates Ln2(SO4)3 ⋅ 8 H2O (Sm, Eu) and the anhydrous sulfates Ln2(SO4)3 (Sm, Eu) have also been characterized by optical spectroscopy and magnetic measurements. Ligand field analyses (angular overlap model) based on these data suggest for the square‐antiprismatic [LnIIIO8] chromophores in the hydrogensulfate‐sulfates a rather weak ligand field, which is comparable only to that in ultraphosphates LnP5O14 and in contrast to the much stronger field observed for most other lanthanoid(III) oxo‐compounds studied so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, readily prepared biphenyl bis‐amidinium compound (1⋅Cl2) is able to selectively precipitate sulfate from water. The precipitant is effective at concentrations as low as 1 mM and shows complete selectivity against monovalent anions, and high selectivity even against CO32− and HPO42−. It is highly effective (>90 % sulfate removed) in both seawater and highly acidic conditions relevant to mining waste‐streams. X‐ray crystallography reveals that 1⋅SO4 forms a tightly packed, anhydrous, structure where each sulfate anion receives eight hydrogen bonds from amidinium N−H hydrogen bond donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of wastewater contaminated with high sulfate concentrations is an environmental imperative lacking a sustainable and environmental friendly technological solution. Microbial electrochemical technology (MET) represents a promising approach for sulfate reduction. In MET, a cathode is introduced as inexhaustible electron source for promoting sulfate reduction via direct or mediated electron transfer. So far, this is mainly studied in batch mode representing straightforward and easy‐to‐use systems, but their practical implementation seems unlikely, as treatment capacities are limited. Here, we investigated bioelectrochemical sulfate reduction in flow mode and achieved removal efficiencies (Esulfate, 89.2 ± 0.4%) being comparable to batch experiments, while sulfate removal rates (Rsulfate, 3.1 ± 0.2 mmol L−1) and Coulombic efficiencies (CE, 85.2 ± 17.7%) were significantly increased. Different temperatures and hydraulic retention times (HRT) were applied and the best performance was achieved at HRT 3.5 days and 30°C. Microbial community analysis based on amplicon sequencing demonstrated that sulfate reduction was mainly performed by prokaryotes belonging to the genera Desulfomicrobium, Desulfovibrio, and Desulfococcus, indicating that hydrogenotrophic and heterotrophic sulfate reduction occurred by utilizing cathodically produced H2 or acetate produced by homoacetogens (Acetobacterium). The advantage of flow operation for bioelectrochemical sulfate reduction is likely based on higher absolute biomass, stable pH, and selection of sulfate reducers with a higher sulfide tolerance, and improved ratio between sulfate‐reducing prokaryotes and homoacetogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The adenoma detection rate (ADR), which is closely related to bowel preparation, is the most important factor for colonoscopy quality assessment. New oral sulfate tablets (OSTs) have been developed to improve bowel preparation compliance. This study evaluated the efficacy of OSTs in terms of the ADR and bowel preparation status. Methods: Medical records of subjects under the age of 65 who underwent colonoscopy from March 2019 to February 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Polyethylene glycol with ascorbic acid (PEG‐A) was used as a bowel preparation for the first half of the study period, and OSTs were used for the second half. In total, 16 971 subjects were included in the study: 9199 (54.2%) used PEG‐A, and 7772 (45.8%) used OSTs. Bowel cleansing quality was assessed by the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS). Results: The average age was 50 years. The rate of adequate bowel preparation was higher in the OST group than in the PEG‐A group (97.2% vs 95.0%, P < 0.001). The mean BBPS was also higher in the OST group (8.02 vs 7.75, P < 0.001). The adenomas per colonoscopy (APC), the ADR and the sessile serrated polyp detection rate (SSPDR) were higher in the OST group than in the PEG‐A group (APC 0.56 ± 1.01 vs 0.48 ± 0.91, P < 0.001; ADR 34.5% vs 30.7%, P < 0.001; SSPDR 5.2% vs 3.3%, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Compared with PEG‐A, OSTs yielded superior APC, ADRs, SSPDRs, and better bowel cleanliness. Therefore, OSTs are a good alternative for patients who have difficulty taking large‐volume bowel preparation formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excess protein‐bound uremic toxins (such as indoxyl sulfate [IS]) in the blood could aggravate chronic kidney disease and also predispose to serious cardiovascular disease. In this study, we constructed a novel IS adsorbent polyacrylonitrile/MIL‐101(Cr) (PAN‐M) nanofibrous membrane with high adsorption capacity and ultra‐fast sorption rate for IS. The porous metal–organic framework MIL‐101(Cr) were embedded in PAN nanofibers by electrospinning as an adsorbent for easy recovery. It was found that MIL‐101(Cr) had a strong electrostatic effect on the SO3− of IS and could reach the adsorption equilibrium within 5 min. Notably, MIL‐101(Cr) showed an extremely high adsorption capacity (~170 mg/g) for IS. The MIL‐101(Cr) loading of prepared PAN‐M nanofibrous membrane was optimized at 60 wt% and the optimal PAN‐M60 exhibited an appreciable IS adsorption capacity (103 mg/g). The removal of IS was enhanced from 35.4% to 62.5% during hemodialysis by using PAN‐M60 as adsorbent immersed in dialysate. This efficient adsorption performance can greatly reduce the consumption of dialysate and may shorten the hemodialysis time. This work would provide a fresh perspective on the development of MOF‐based adsorbents to improve hemodialysis therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using Ni‐rich material (LiNixCoyMnzO2, x+y+z=1) as cathode electrode, the energy density of lithium‐ion batteries can be increased. However, the electrode/electrolyte interface instability of Ni‐rich cathode at high voltage will adversely affect the cycle performance and limit its practical application. In this paper, propanediol cyclic sulfate (PCS) is proposed as a functional additive to improve the cycling stability of LiNi0.6Co0.1Mn0.3O2/graphite battery. After adding 3.0 wt.% PCS to the baseline electrolyte, the capacity retention of the batteries improves from 9.6 % to 86.5 % after 150 cycles at the voltages of 3.0–4.5 V. Based on the theoretical calculation and experimental result, the main reason for the improvement of electrochemical performance is that the PCS forms a highly stable sulfur‐containing compound interface layer (SEI/CEI) on the electrode surface, which can not only inhibit electrolyte decomposition and interface impedance increase, but also reduce transition metal dissolution. This work has given some ideas for the practical utilization of high‐voltage LiNi0.6Co0.1Mn0.3O2/graphite pouch‐cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous processing of Ni‐rich layered oxide cathode materials is a promising approach to simultaneously decrease electrode manufacturing costs, while bringing environmental benefits by substituting the state‐of‐the‐art (often toxic and costly) organic processing solvents. However, an aqueous environment remains challenging due to the high reactivity of Ni‐rich layered oxides towards moisture, leading to lithium leaching and Al current collector corrosion because of the resulting high pH value of the aqueous electrode paste. Herein, a facile method was developed to enable aqueous processing of LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) by the addition of lithium sulfate (Li2SO4) during electrode paste dispersion. The aqueously processed electrodes retained 80 % of their initial capacity after 400 cycles in NCM811||graphite full cells, while electrodes processed without the addition of Li2SO4 reached 80 % of their capacity after only 200 cycles. Furthermore, with regard to electrochemical performance, aqueously processed electrodes using carbon‐coated Al current collector outperformed reference electrodes based on state‐of‐the‐art production processes involving N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone as processing solvent and fluorinated binders. The positive impact on cycle life by the addition of Li2SO4 stemmed from a formed sulfate coating as well as different surface species, protecting the NCM811 surface against degradation. Results reported herein open a new avenue for the processing of Ni‐rich NCM electrodes using more sustainable aqueous routes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra‐small luminescent gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have gained substantial interest owing to their low photobleaching and high biocompatibility. While the substitution of silver for gold at the central core of AuNCs has shown significant augmentation of photoluminescence with enhanced photostability, selective replacement of the central atom by silver is, however, energetically inhibited. Herein, a new strategy for in situ site‐selective Ag‐doping exclusively at the central core of AuNCs using sulphated colloidal surfaces as the templates is presented. This approach exceedingly improves the photoluminescence quantum efficiency of AuNCs by eliminating nonradiative losses in the multi‐step relaxation cascade populating the emissive state. Density functional theory predicts the mechanism of specific doping at the central core, endorsing the preferential bonding between Ag+ ions and sulphates in water. Finally, the generic nature of the templating concept to allow core‐specific doping of nanoclusters is unraveled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate is the fourth most abundant anion in human plasma but is not measured in clinical practice and little is known about the consequences of sulfate deficiency. Nevertheless, sulfation plays an essential role in the modulation of numerous compounds, including proteoglycans and steroids. We report the first patient with a homozygous loss‐of‐function variant in the SLC13A1 gene, encoding a renal and intestinal sulfate transporter, which is essential for maintaining plasma sulfate levels. The homozygous (Arg12Ter) variant in SLC13A1 was found by exome sequencing performed in a patient with unexplained skeletal dysplasia. The main clinical features were enlargement of joints and spondylo‐epi‐metaphyseal radiological abnormalities in early childhood, which improved with age. In addition, autistic features were noted. We found profound hyposulfatemia due to complete loss of renal sulfate reabsorption. Cholesterol sulfate was reduced. Intravenous N‐acetylcysteine administration temporarily restored plasma sulfate levels. We conclude that loss of the SLC13A1 gene leads to profound hypersulfaturia and hyposulfatemia, which is mainly associated with abnormal skeletal development, possibly predisposing to degenerative bone and joint disease. The diagnosis might be easily missed and more frequent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to extract brownmillerite from sulfate resisting Portland cement (SRPC) in order to determine its crystal chemistry and the effects of dissolution protocols. Brownmillerites (C4AF) from four SRPC were extracted and systematically studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Two extraction steps were used. The first is the salicylic acid/methanol (SAM) protocol that leaves a residue rich in ferrite, C3A and sulfates. Precipitated hydrated sulfate minerals are also observed for clinker with high molar SO3/Na2Oeq ratio. The second, developed in this paper, uses acetic acid (AcA) extraction to dissolve C3A and sulfates. The Rietveld refinements showed that all brownmillerites of this study crystallize in Ibm2 space group. Two families of brownmillerite were identified by their aluminum content and cell parameters, related to the presence of C3A in the clinker. EPMA indicated that ferrites from SR0 and SR3 cements have Al/Fe ratios about 0.7 and 0.8–1.0, respectively. XRD allows to predict the (Al+Mg+Si)/Fe ratio in brownmillerite in good agreement with EPMA. The SAM protocol is the best way to study crystal chemistry of brownmillerite and the AcA protocol is recommended to dissolve sulfates and C3A for further reactivity studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical trauma‐induced inflammation during major surgery may disrupt endothelial integrity and affect plasma concentrations of glycocalyx constituents, such as syndecan‐1 and heparan sulphate. To date, no studies have focused on their perioperative temporal changes. Methods: As part of a trial, we obtained plasma and urine specimens sampled during the perioperative period in 72 patients undergoing major abdominal surgery. The plasma concentration of syndecan‐1 and heparan sulphate was measured on five occasions, from baseline to the second postoperative day. Plasma and urinary creatinine and urinary syndecan‐1 concentrations were measured before surgery and on the first postoperative morning. Results: We observed three different temporal patterns of plasma syndecan‐1 concentration. Group 1 'low' (64% of patients) showed only minor changes from baseline despite a median heparan sulphate increase of 67% (p <.005). Group 2 'increase' (21% of patients) showed a marked increase in median plasma syndecan‐1 from 27 μg/L to 118 μg/L during the first postoperative day (p <.001) with a substantial (+670%; p <.005) increase in median plasma heparan sulphate from 279 to 2196 μg/L. Group 3 'high' (14% of patients) showed a constant elevation of plasma syndecan‐1 to >100 μg/L, but low heparan sulphate levels. The plasma C‐reactive protein concentration did not differ across the three groups and 90% of colon surgeries occurred in Group 1. Treatment with dexamethasone was similar across the three groups. Surgical blood loss, duration of surgery and liver resection were greatest in Group 2. Conclusion: Changes in syndecan‐1 and heparan sulphate after surgery appear to show three different patterns, with the greatest increases in those patients with greater blood loss, more liver surgery and longer operations. These observations suggest that increases in syndecan‐1 and heparan sulphate reflect the degree of surgical injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delivery of sulfate to petroleum hydrocarbons (PHCs) source zones and groundwater plumes is desirable to enhance biodegradation rates when treatment has become limited due to depletion of sulfate. Sulfate land application involves spreading sulfate salts on ground surface and allowing their dissolution and infiltration of sulfate into subsurface. The objectives of this pilot‐scale investigation were to capture the vertical transport of sulfate beneath an application area, confirm that sulfate reduction was occurring, and explore how the added sulfate affected biodegradation of benzene and toluene. Approximately 4000 kg of gypsum was spread over a 30 m × 30 m study area above a smear zone located approximately 2 m below‐ground surface. Precipitation was augmented by two irrigation events. Groundwater samples, collected over 1058 days from multilevel wells and a conventional long‐screened monitoring well, were analyzed for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX), sulfate, bromide, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and methane. Compound‐specific isotope analyses (CSIA) for benzene and toluene, and isotope analyses of 13C‐DIC and 34S‐SO42− were performed. Following application, an increase in sulfate concentration was noted in the smear zone. 34S‐SO42− enrichment and 13C‐DIC depletion indicated that sulfate reduction and mineralization of PHCs were enhanced. CSIA results provided unequivocal evidence of anaerobic biodegradation of benzene and toluene. After 1058 days when sulfate was depleted, methane concentrations were about three times greater than baseline conditions suggesting syntrophic benefit of the delivered sulfate. Observations from this investigation support the viability of sulfate land application to enhance biodegradation rates in shallow PHC smear zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate attack is a major cause of the deterioration of concrete structures. Accurately predicting the temporal and spatial distribution of sulfate ions in concrete is the basis for revealing the mechanism of concrete performance deterioration caused by sulfate attack. In this article, based on the pore change caused by sulfate damage to cement mortar, a diffusion model of sulfate ions in cement mortar considering changes in surface concentration was established. Furthermore, a two‐dimensional mesoscopic concrete model composed of cement mortar, coarse aggregate, the intrafacial transition zone (ITZ) and macroscopic defects, which can reflect the real aggregate shape, was constructed to study the diffusion of sulfate ions in concrete. The correctness of the model is verified with existing experimental data, and the model is further studied. The results show the following. (1) The average value of the calculation results of multiple sets of models can be used to eliminate the influence of the randomness of the construction of the two‐dimensional mesoscopic concrete model. (2) With increasing stone content, the corrosion depth increases, but the average concentration at a given location decreases. (3) With increasing sulfate solution concentration and water‐cement ratio, the sulfate ion concentration and the corrosion depth in concrete increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase evolutions in sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate–activated slag cements upon sulfate salt attack were investigated via thermodynamic modeling. The effects of different sulfate salts (i.e., Na2SO4 and MgSO4) and slag compositions were studied. In thermodynamic modeling, a solid solution model, that is, MgAl–SO4–LDH_ss, was proposed to describe the sulfate‐intercalated hydrotalcite. The modeling results were presented and discussed in comparison with experimental observations. Upon sulfate salt attack, ettringite, gypsum, sulfate‐intercalated hydrotalcite, magnesium silicate hydrate, and so on were predicted to form. By quantitatively evaluating the composition change of C–(N–)A–S–H gel, solid phase expansion, and alteration in pore solution chemistry, it was found that magnesium sulfate induced severer degradation of alkali‐activated slag cements compared to sodium sulfate. Upon sulfate salt attack with a fixed sulfate concentration, the ideal outcome shows that the slag with lower Al2O3 content not only gave a larger content of C–(N–)A–S–H gel but also caused the reduced decalcification and dealumination of C–(N–)A–S–H gel and solid phase expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to explore the association between dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) levels at age 7, pubertal development between ages 10 and 13, and age at menarche. Design and participants: This is a longitudinal study of 603 individuals (301 girls, 302 boys) from the Generation XXI cohort. Measurements: Evaluation of the participants at ages 7, 10 and 13 included anthropometry and Tanner staging. Pubertal development between ages 10 and 13 was categorized using latent class analysis, based on Tanner stages. The association between DHEAS at age 7 and pubertal development between ages 10 and 13 was conducted with binomial logistic regression, adjusted for BMI z‐score. The variation of age at menarche in relation to DHEAS levels at age 7, controlling for maternal age at menarche, birth weight z‐score and BMI z‐score, was estimated fitting a linear regression model. Results: Pubertal development at ages 10−13 was categorized into two classes—Class 1 had a higher probability for the lower Tanner stage (less advanced sexual maturation) and Class 2 had a higher probability for the higher Tanner stage (more advanced sexual maturation). In girls, taking Class 1 as a reference, Class 2 was positively associated with BMI z‐score and DHEAS. In boys, Class 2 was positively associated with BMI, but not with DHEAS. DHEAS levels at age 7 were negatively associated with age at menarche, after adjustment for maternal age at menarche, birth weight and BMI. Conclusion: In girls, but not in boys, DHEAS at age 7 was positively associated with more advanced pubertal development between ages 10 and 13, and with earlier age at menarche. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biocide tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulphate (THPS) and other members of the tetrakis(hydroxymethyl) phosphonium salts (THPX) family are associated with liver toxicity in several mammalian species and teratogenicity in rabbits. Malformations include skeletal changes and abnormalities in eye development and are very similar to those seen with vitamin A deficiency or excess. For this reason, it was hypothesized that teratogenicity of THPS(X) might be attributed to disturbances in retinol availability and/or metabolism as a result of maternal toxicity, for example, either due to insufficient dietary intake by the mothers or due to liver toxicity. Therefore, in the present study, liver toxicity and vitamin A homeostasis were studied in pregnant rabbits that were exposed to 13.8 or 46.0 mg/kg THPS during organogenesis and in precision‐cut liver slices of rats and rabbits exposed to 0–70 μM THPS. Results show that in vivo exposure to THPS leads to a marked reduction of food intake, increased plasma concentrations of γ‐glutamytransferase, degenerative changes in the liver and to changes in retinoid content in liver and plasma in the rabbits during organogenesis. In addition, THPS, both in vivo and ex vivo, caused a change in expression of proteins related to vitamin A metabolism and transport. Together, these observations could explain the birth defects observed in earlier teratogenicity studies. Pregnant rabbits and liver slices of rats and rabbits were exposed to tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulphate (THPS) to investigate its interaction with vitamin A homeostasis. In the rabbits, this resulted in substantial reduction of food intake, adverse liver effects, and reduced retinol concentrations in liver and plasma. In vivo and in liver slices, THPS changed the expression of proteins related to retinoid metabolism and transport. The interference with vitamin A homeostasis could act in synergy with food deprivation leading to birth defects in rabbits following THPS exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indoxyl sulphate (IS) is a uremic toxin accumulating in the plasma of chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. IS accumulation induces side effects in the kidneys, bones and cardiovascular system. Most studies assessed IS effects on cell lines by testing higher concentrations than those measured in CKD patients. Differently, we exposed a human microvascular endothelial cell line (HMEC‐1) to the IS concentrations measured in the plasma of healthy subjects (physiological) or CKD patients (pathological). Pathological concentrations reduced cell proliferation rate but did not increase long‐term oxidative stress level. Indeed, total protein thiols decreased only after 24 h of exposure in parallel with an increased Nrf‐2 protein expression. IS induced actin cytoskeleton rearrangement with formation of stress fibres. Proteomic analysis supported this hypothesis as many deregulated proteins are related to actin filaments organization or involved in the endothelial to mesenchymal transition. Interestingly, two proteins directly linked to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in in vitro and in vivo studies underwent deregulation: COP9 signalosome complex subunit 9 and thrombomodulin. Future experiments will be needed to investigate the role of these proteins and the signalling pathways in which they are involved to clarify the possible link between CKD and CVD. We exposed HMEC‐1 to the IS concentrations measured in the plasma of healthy subjects or CKD patients. Pathological concentrations reduced cell proliferation rate but did not increase long‐term oxidative stress level. Total protein thiols were decreased only after 24 h of exposure in parallel with an increase in Nrf‐2 protein expression. IS induced actin cytoskeleton rearrangement with formation of stress fibres. Proteomic analysis data suggest that IS could also act as an endothelial to mesenchymal transition stimulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the treatment of organophosphate poisoning atropine sulphate monohydrate (AT) and obidoxime dichloride (OB) play a vital role. Currently, the Austrian Armed Forces use the DOUBLEPEN OA two‐chamber autoinjector (ChemProtect) to administer these two drugs. The autoinjector is a part of military standard equipment as a "Basic CBRN‐First Aid Kit" and contains OB and AT with a declared concentration of 220 mg/2 ml and 2 mg/2 ml, respectively. Especially in the two‐chamber autoinjectors, it is highly possible that not all the content of the antidote solution is administered when the autoinjector is triggered. The purpose of the study was to analyze one hundred DOUBLEPEN OA autoinjectors from two different production batches (1707068 and 1707067) for volume loss, drug content and uniformity of dosage unit. Uniformity of dosage units, assessed by the content uniformity method (Chapter 2.9.40 of the European Pharmacopeia), requires the calculation of an acceptable value to quantify the uniformity of the drug product. An acceptance value for the first 10 dosage units of 15.0% or below is considered acceptable. The loss of volume was calculated by determining the density and mass of the solution after triggering the autoinjector. A quantitative high‐performance liquid chromatography method has been developed and in‐house validated for the determination of the content of two drugs. According to International Council for Harmonisation guidelines, the analytical method was proven to be accurate and repeatable. The obtained results show that the average loss of volume after injection was 5%, and the average content of OB and AT for batch 1707068, was 216.5 and 1.9 mg, while for batch 1707067 it was 224.2 and 2.0 mg, respectively. Although the loss of volume and content were observed, the calculated acceptance value for both production batches met the requirements of uniformity of dosage unit by the European Pharmacopeia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the genesis of Martian soils is important to constrain the hydrogeologic history of the planet. Soils have the potential to record paleoenvironmental conditions, through the nature of secondary minerals formed during weathering. In situ X‐ray diffraction analyses in Gale crater have revealed that about one third of each soil sample is composed of amorphous materials containing hydrated phases. Here, we use the geochemical data from the ChemCam instrument to investigate the nature and origin of the hydrated amorphous phases. We report for the first time with ChemCam clues for the presence of sulfates within the amorphous component of soils. We show that sulfates are the main carrier of the soil hydration and possibly explain the nature of hydrogen and sulfur measured from orbit. These sulfates and the apparent lack of significant Al‐bearing weathering products are consistent with a model of soil formation including weathering of olivine in water‐limited acidic conditions. Plain Language Summary: The study of Martian soils is of considerable interest as the nature of the mineral phases they contain, formed by the action of water for some of them, can give information on the past environments of the planet. Mineralogical analyses in Gale crater have shown that about one third of soils are composed of poorly crystalline materials whose nature remains unclear, and that soil hydration could be associated with these phases. Here, we use the chemical analyses from the ChemCam instrument to investigate the composition of the hydrogen‐bearing products, and we report for the first time the presence of sulfates in soils with this instrument. We demonstrate that sulfates are the main contributor to the water content of soils and are probably the source of the hydrogen and sulfur measured from orbit. The presence of sulfates and the lack of significant other secondary materials, especially enriched in aluminum, suggest that soils have probably undergone an acidic aqueous alteration with a low quantity of water, favoring the dissolution of olivine as the precursor to sulfates. Key Points: The amorphous component of Gale crater soils contains hydrated sulfatesThe Eolian dust deposits are not the carrier of the identified hydrated sulfatesWater‐limited acidic conditions may have led to the formation of these phases [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern anoxic marine sediments release phosphorus (P) to seawater, driving feedbacks at multiple timescales. On sub‐Myr timescales, anoxic P regeneration amplifies ocean deoxygenation; on multi‐Myr timescales, it stabilizes atmospheric O2. Some authors have extended this thinking to the Precambrian: by analogy, widespread ocean anoxia would imply extensive P regeneration from sediments. However, this neglects the role of sulfate in P regeneration. While abundant in seawater today, sulfate was scarce in the Precambrian. Here a simple model is used to isolate the role of sulfate in anoxic P cycling. The model reproduces known feedbacks driven by anoxic P regeneration in a high‐sulfate world, but shows muted P regeneration in low‐sulfate, anoxic sediments. The transition between "limited" and "enhanced" P regeneration is thus controlled by sulfate. As a result, sulfate is a double‐edged sword wielded by the anoxic P cycle: it can amplify oxygenation or deoxygenation depending on environmental context. Plain Language Summary: Phosphorus is a critical nutrient and its availability controls the rate of biological productivity in the ocean. Constraining phosphorus availability in seawater through time is thus of great interest to paleoceanographers. A key observation in recent years has been that ancient marine sediments from the Precambrian Era (prior to 541 million years ago) contain less phosphorus than younger sediments. Researchers disagree as to why this is, with proposed ideas falling into two main camps. One camp maintains that phosphorus burial was efficient in the Precambrian, meaning that phosphorus was quickly removed from seawater, creating a small ocean inventory and keeping sedimentary phosphorus levels low. Another camp suggests that Precambrian phosphorus burial was inefficient, causing sediments to have low phosphorus content, instead allowing phosphorus to accumulate to high levels in seawater. Here a simple model is used to reconcile these contrasting hypotheses. The model examines the effect of sulfate on phosphorus burial efficiency in anoxic sediments, finding that lower sulfate levels imply higher burial efficiency, and vice‐versa. The contrasting hypotheses for Precambrian phosphorus burial can thus both potentially be accurate, and this exercise highlights the importance of constraining marine sulfate levels to know more about the ancient phosphorus cycle. Key Points: Sulfur cycling drives phosphorus (P) release from modern anoxic sediments to overlying seawaterIn a high‐sulfate, high‐O2 world, P regeneration stabilizes atmospheric O2 on long timescales, but amplifies transient ocean anoxic eventsIn a low‐sulfate, low‐O2 world, P regeneration amplifies transient atmosphere oxygenation events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate is a major atmospheric pollutant and radiative forcing (RF) factor that influences air quality, cloud microphysics, and climate. Therefore, a better evaluation of sulfate concentrations and RF patterns is essential for policy‐making and the management of air pollution and climate change. This study comprehensively estimates the global distribution of sulfate concentrations and RFs and analyzes the sources of uncertainty in the Community Earth System Model version 2 and the Parallel Offline Radiative Transfer model. Compared with the observations, the incorporation of detailed in‐cloud aqueous‐phase chemistry and the enhanced wet deposition (WD) flux of sulfate significantly improved the simulations of sulfur species both near the ground and at high altitudes, which is beneficial for a more accurate estimation of the global RF of sulfate. The improved simulated RF of sulfate from 1850 to 2015 is −0.502 Wˑm−2. This study finds that WD is the key process governing both the horizontal and vertical distributions of sulfate concentrations. The overestimation of surface sulfate and the underestimation of high‐altitude sulfate made by the model are essential uncertainty factors of the sulfate RF estimation. This study emphasizes the importance of improving the simulation of global sulfate distribution as well as its RF, which may strongly pressure the near‐future warming potential when witnessing a rapid transition to a carbon neutral world that is phasing out fossil fuel. A more accurate assessment of sulfate levels and radiation effects will play a remarkable guiding role in the formulation of global emission reduction‐related policies in the future. Plain Language Summary: Sulfate aerosols play an essential role in the entire atmosphere and climate system. Therefore, it is necessary to better simulate the distribution and radiative forcing (RF) of sulfate. By using a global climate model, we improved the simulation of sulfate distribution both near the ground and at high altitudes and achieved a more accurate estimation of the global RF of sulfate. We found that wet deposition is the key process influencing the distribution of sulfate concentrations. The overestimation of surface sulfate and the underestimation of high‐altitude sulfate are important uncertainty factors of sulfate RF. Our results suggest that more field studies (e.g., aircraft campaigns, surface measurements over remote regions, etc.) of sulfate are urgently needed. This study indicates that large uncertainties may exist in current global climate models, which may impact the formulation of future policy‐making in carbon neutrality. Key Points: The global simulations of sulfate distribution and radiative forcing are significantly improved with the usage of Community Earth System Model version 2Wet deposition is the key process governing both the horizontal and vertical distributions of global sulfate concentrationsThe uncertainty of sulfate forcing is very important to the formulation of global carbon neutral policies [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titania nanoparticles surface‐functionalized with sulfate were prepared by thermal degradation of titanyl sulfate. At 600 °C pure anatase phase is obtained. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) showed 1.4 at.% sulfur in the +6 oxidation state. At 700 °C anatase was still present, which is attributed to the presence of small amounts of stabilizing sulfate groups only detectable by high‐resolution XPS, segregating to the nanoparticle interfaces. Adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde reactions were studied by in situ diffuse reflectance Fourier transform spectroscopy and 2D correlation spectroscopy, and compared with pure anatase nanoparticles. Aldol condensation of acetaldehyde and subsequent accumulation of crotonaldehyde was lower on sulfate‐modified titania. Butanoate was identified as an intermediate, which forms after dimerization and aldol condensation. Much more carboxylates and carbonates accumulated on pure anatase catalysts compared with sulfate‐modified anatase during photocatalysis. It is conjectured that surface acidic photocatalysts could be beneficial for achieving sustained activity for photodegradation of organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the feasibility of sulfate modification of Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs) and their potential anti‐HIV‐1 application. LBPs with different molecular weights were prepared by fractional precipitation from crude LBP via aqueous extraction, ethanol precipitation, and deproteinization. The purified LBPs (G1, G2, and G3) were sulfated using the chlorosulfonic acid pyridine method to obtain sulfated LBPs (G1S1–G1S4, G2S1–G2S4, and G3S1–G3S4) with different sulfur degrees of substitution. The anti‐HIV‐1 activity in vitro was evaluated via the TD50 from the cytotoxicity test and the IC50 inhibitory activity. The cytotoxicity and inhibitory activity in vitro were carried out using the CCK‐8 assay and MAGI test with Azidothymidine (AZT) as a positive control. The results show that the LBPs and the sulfated derivatives were not toxic towards CCK‐8 cells with TD50>100 μg/mL and they had strong anti‐HIV‐1 activity with IC50 values of 0.02–0.12 μg/mL. Compared with the LBPs, the anti‐HIV‐1 activity of the sulfated LBPs increased with IC50 values from 0.0924–0.1206 μg/mL to 0.0206–0.0722 μg/mL. Sulfate modification of LBPs can increase their anti‐HIV pharmacological activity, the G1S4 (Mw=2.13×104 Da and DS=1.12) showed relatively good in vitro anti‐HIV‐1 activity with an IC50 value near that of AZT (0.0200 μg/mL). The results suggest further detailed in vivo studies are warranted for these promising candidates with anti‐HIV‐1 activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited investigations are available on the influence of chloride and sulfate solutions on pozzolana‐based cement rubberized concrete after crumb rubber treatment. Mechanical and durability characteristics of rubberized concrete are assessed and compared to conventional concrete. Five contents of crumb rubber (10%–30% at 5% of increment) are utilized for partially replacing fine aggregate in concrete. The optimum amount of crumb rubber in concrete is revealed at a replacement level of 15%. The specimens remained in the crystalline form after being immersed in NaCl (sodium chloride), Na2SO4 (sodium sulfate), and MgSO4 (magnesium sulfate) solution, according to structural analyses by XRD (X‐ray diffraction). When rubberized concrete is submerged in both sulfate solutions with the same concentrations and for the same amount of time, the specimens immersed in Na2SO4 solution lose less weight and compressive strength than specimens submerged in MgSO4 solution. The losses in compressive strength of conventional concrete are 1.86%, 3.57%, and 4.82% when immersed in NaCl, Na2SO4, and MgSO4 solution. However, the losses are 1.67%, 2.79%, and 3.16% in rubberized concrete only at 24 weeks. Pozzolana‐based cement and after crumb rubber treatment, the rubberized concrete can resist chloride and sulfate solutions for a long duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D and 3D epitaxies of the main {010}, {001} and {100} forms of deposited bassanite (CaSO4·0.5H2O) on {10.4} calcite (CaCO3) as a substrate are described to provide a theoretical crystallographic background for the replacement of calcite by bassanite both in nature and in the laboratory and by weathering linked to cultural heritage. First, epitaxy in the third dimension, perpendicular to the investigated interfaces, has been verified in order to establish whether adsorption/absorption can occur (as anomalous mixed crystals) at the bassanite/calcite epi‐contacts. Secondly, and by applying the Hartman–Perdok method, 2D lattice coincidences have been obtained from the physical‐geometric matches of bonds running in the common directions within the elementary slices facing the substrate/deposit interfaces. This research represents the second and more detailed part of a wider program extended to the epi‐interactions between the following pairs: (i) {010}‐gypsum/{10.4}‐calcite (just published); (ii) bassanite/{10.4}‐calcite (the present work); and (iii) anhydrite (CaSO4)/{10.4}‐calcite (coming soon). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate is present in all freshwater and marine environments and is reduced to toxic and corrosive hydrogen sulfide by anaerobic bacteria. By measuring depth profiles of sulfate in sediments, it is possible to obtain estimates of sulfate reduction rates (SRRs). A whole‐cell microscale biosensor for sulfate was constructed by placing a mixture of sulfate‐reducing and aerobic bacteria in front of a hydrogen sulfide microsensor. The bacteria were supplied with electron donors from a reservoir behind the bacterial biomass. The aerobic bacteria ensured anaerobic conditions in deeper parts of the 150‐μm‐thick bacterial layer, so that the sulfate reducers could be active. A typical tip diameter of a sulfate biosensor is 50 μm. The calibration curve was close to linear in the 0–2 mM range, with a detection limit of about 10 μM. The 90% response time varied between 90 and 220 s, slowest response at low concentrations. Oxygen and ferrous iron at environmental concentrations gave no interference, but there was a 6% signal difference between stirred and stagnant liquid medium. The sensitivity of the biosensor could be modulated by applying a charge between sensor interior and an external electrode. The lifetime is usually a few weeks. The biosensor was used to measure sulfate profiles in a freshwater sediment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regioselective sulfation of bioactive compounds is a vital and scarcely studied topic in enzyme‐catalyzed transformations and metabolomics. The major bottleneck of enzymatic sulfation consists in finding suitable sulfate donors. In this regard, 3′‐phosphoadenosine 5′‐phosphosulfate (PAPS)‐independent aryl sulfotransferases using aromatic sulfate donors are a favored choice due to their cost‐effectiveness. This work presents a unique study of five sulfate donors differing in their leaving group pKa values with a new His‐tagged construct of aryl sulfotransferase from Desulfitobacterium hafniense (DhAST‐tag). DhAST‐tag was purified to homogeneity and biochemically characterized. Two new donors (3‐nitrophenyl sulfate and 2‐nitrophenyl sulfate) were synthesized. The kinetic parameters of these and other commercial sulfates (4‐nitrophenyl, 4‐methylumbelliferyl, and phenyl) revealed large differences with respect to the structure of the leaving group. These donors were screened for the sulfation of selected flavonoids (myricetin, chrysin) and phenolic acids (gallate, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetate). The donor impact on the sulfation regioselectivity and yield was assessed. The obtained regioselectively sulfated compounds are authentic human metabolites required as standards in clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, only KBe2BO3F2 (KBBF) can effectively realize a deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) coherent output, while the layered growth habit seriously hinders its application. Here, a new design strategy with an optimized KBBF‐like structure based on the quasi‐phase matching principle is proposed. Thus, the first KBBF‐like ferroelectric, Li2KRb(SO4)2, is designed. It exhibits a short DUV absorption cutoff edge of 163 nm, a large nonlinear optical (NLO) effect of 1.7 × KH2PO4 under a 1064 nm laser, and typical ferroelectricity. More importantly, it completely eliminates the layered structure by replacing K‐F bonds with strong ‐Li‐O‐S‐ ones as the interlayer force. Therefore, this work finds a new promising DUV NLO candidate, a unity of the DUV transparency, NLO response, and ferroelectricity, which is advantageous to explore new DUV NLO materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypersaline Dead Sea and its sediments are natural laboratories for studying extremophile microorganism habitat response to environmental change. In modern times, increased freshwater runoff to the lake surface waters resulted in stratification and dilution of the upper water column followed by microbial blooms. However, whether these events facilitated a microbial response in the deep lake and sediments is obscure. Here we investigate archived evidence of microbial processes and changing regional hydroclimate conditions by reconstructing deep Dead Sea chemical compositions from pore fluid major ion concentration and stable S, O, and C isotopes, together with lipid biomarkers preserved in the hypersaline deep Dead Sea ICDP‐drilled core sediments dating to the early Holocene (ca. 10,000 years BP). Following a significant negative lake water balance resulting in salt layer deposits at the start of the Holocene, there was a general period of positive net water balance at 9500–8300 years BP. The pore fluid isotopic composition of sulfate exhibit evidence of intensified microbial sulfate reduction, where both δ34S and δ18O of sulfate show a sharp increase from estimated base values of 15.0‰ and 13.9‰ to 40.2‰ and 20.4‰, respectively, and a δ34S vs. δ18O slope of 0.26. The presence of the n‐C17 alkane biomarker in the sediments suggests an increase of cyanobacteria or phytoplankton contribution to the bulk organic matter that reached the deepest parts of the Dead Sea. Although hydrologically disconnected, both the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea microbial ecosystems responded to increased freshwater runoff during the early Holocene, with the former depositing the organic‐rich sapropel 1 layer due to anoxic water column conditions. In the Dead Sea prolonged positive net water balance facilitated primary production and algal blooms in the upper waters and intensified microbial sulfate reduction in the hypolimnion and/or at the sediment–brine interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even slight changes occurring in the lattice positions of solid materials enforced by the external forces may give rise to remarkable results in the crystallographic nature. The materials which undergo phase‐change without modifying their overall chemistry are the prominent candidates to be the driving forces for the applications involving phase transitions. In the present context, the authors present and demonstrate the switchable phase transition occurring between crystalline and amorphous nature of cadmium sulfate octahydrate single crystals (3CdSO4·8H2O) impacted by shock waves with which the transition is authenticated via diffraction, vibrational and optical spectroscopic techniques such as powder X‐ray diffractometry, Raman and UV‐Vis spectral analyses. Based on the results attained from diffraction and spectroscopic analyses, it is observed that the switchable phase transition sequence is crystalline–crystalline–amorphous–crystalline–crystalline with respect to the control, one, two, three, and four shock‐wave‐loaded conditions, respectively. Due to the outstanding switching behavior, the title material is strongly suggested for the applications of molecular switching and optical data storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited therapeutic options exist for multidrug‐resistant/extensively drug‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR/XDR‐Ab) meningitis/ventriculitis. A combination of intravenous and intraventricular (IVT)/intrathecal (IT) polymyxins achieves good therapeutic outcomes for cases of healthcare‐associated MDR/XDR‐Ab meningitis/ventriculitis. Colistin is commercially available as colistin sulphate and its sulphomethylated derivative. However, the effect and safety of colistin sulphate in the treatment of MDR/XDR‐Ab meningitis/ventriculitis has not been reported. We report on a 66‐year‐old male patient who developed post‐neurosurgical ventriculitis caused by MDR‐Ab. IVT concomitant intravenous colistin sulphate was used as a last‐resort antimicrobial therapy, the patient's ventriculitis was dramatically improved, and the concentrations of CSF colistin were higher than the MIC breakpoint throughout the treatment. Meanwhile, no nephrotoxicity or neurotoxicity was observed during the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight horses underwent IVRLP at two occasions through a 23‐gauge 2 cm long butterfly catheter. Regional anaesthesia of the ulnar, median and medial cutaneous antebrachial nerves was performed prior, and an 8 cm rubber tourniquet was placed on the proximal radius for 30 minutes following the infusion. The first infusion consisted of 2 g of amikacin sulphate and 10 mg of dexamethasone phosphate diluted with 0.9% NaCl to a total volume of 100 ml. The second perfusion was performed after a 2‐week washout period, the same protocol was used but without dexamethasone phosphate. Synovial fluid samples were collected from the metacarpophalangeal joint at T = 0, 0.5, 2, 12, 24 and 36 h post‐infusion. Synovial fluid amikacin sulphate concentrations were determined by use of liquid chromatography/tandem mass‐spectrometry. All horses (n = 8) remained healthy throughout the study, and no adverse effects associated with the study were encountered. No statistically significant differences were found in synovial fluid amikacin sulphate concentrations between the treatment and the control group at any of the time points. In conclusion, dexamethasone phosphate can be used in IVRLP concomitantly with amikacin sulphate in cases of distal limb inflammation and pain without decreasing the synovial fluid concentration of amikacin sulphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrocatalytic nitrogen oxidation reaction (NOR) to generate nitrate is gaining increasing attention as an alternative approach to the conventional industrial manufacture. But, current progress in NOR is limited by the difficulties in activation and conversion of the strong N≡N bond (941 kJ mol−1). Herein, we designed to utilize sulfate to enhance NOR performance over an Rh electrocatalyst. After the addition of sulfate, the inert Rh nanoparticles exhibited superior NOR performance with a nitrate yield of 168.0 μmol gcat−1 h−1. The 15N isotope‐labeling experiment confirmed the produced nitrate from nitrogen electrooxidation. A series of electrochemical in situ characterizations and theoretical calculation unveiled that sulfate promoted nitrogen adsorption and decreased the reaction energy barrier, and in situ formed sulfate radicals reduced the activation energy of the potential‐determining step, thus accelerating NOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]