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Sulfates with a large bandgap are always promising optical candidates. However, due to insufficient birefringence, their applications are restricted. Here, in terms of this deficiency, two strategies are proposed to rationally modulate the optical anisotropy of sulfates by cations and anions, respectively. For the cation modulation, the [C(NH2)3]Al(SO4)2·6H2O crystal is investigated, which exhibits an unprecedented birefringence (0.098 @ 546 nm) compared with other deep‐ultraviolet transparent sulfates, resulting from the synergy of π‐conjugated [C(NH2)3]+ and non‐π‐conjugated [SO4]2− groups. For the anion modulation, a novel functional group, [S3O6]2−, with a large polarizability anisotropy, is designed. Thus, a new crystal, NaKS3O6, is obtained, which exhibits a large birefringence of 0.130 @ 546 nm with a short ultraviolet absorption cutoff edge of 215 nm. These results confirm the validity of the strategies. Therefore, the strategies play an important role in improving sulfate's birefringence and then promoting their potential applications in advanced optical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil fertility diagnosis often omits subsoil measurements, impacting precision. Our objective was to compare the vertical distribution of nitrate and sulfate in agricultural Mollisols. Both anions were measured in 34 Mollisols of the Pampean region (Argentina) sampled to 160‐cm depth at 20 cm intervals. Nitrate exhibited a continuous downward trajectory, with maximum values at 0–20 cm (12.7 mg N kg−1) and minimum values at 140–160 cm (3.3 mg N kg−1). Sulfate displayed a sinuous pattern, with a minimum at 60–80 cm (3 mg S kg−1). The 60–160/0–160 cm concentration ratio was 42% for nitrate and 60% for sulfate, indicating greater topsoil stratification for nitrate. Predicting deep‐layer nitrate concentrations from topsoil data was more accurate than for sulfate. This poses a challenge for assessing soil S bioavailability, as subsoil sulfates go undetected in conventional sampling. Core Ideas: Nitrate content consistently decreased from the shallowest to the deepest soil layer.In contrast, sulfate exhibited a sinuous trajectory, with minimum values at 60–80 cm.Compared to sulfates, the stratification toward the topsoil was 35% higher for nitrates.Sulfates in the upper layers failed to predict sulfate concentrations in deep layers.Nitrate at 20–60 cm was an acceptable predictor of subsoil nitrate (60–160 cm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate surfactants in cosmetic products raise concerns due to their skin irritating impact and sustainability. Rhamnolipid, a green and safe biosurfactant, was studied from the perspective of rheology to help develop a formulation with natural and effective ingredients for cosmetics. The viscosity of rhamnolipids was investigated by changing pH, concentration and adding additives like inorganic salts (NaCl, MgCl2) and polymers (Carbopol® Ultrez 20, Carbopol® Aqua SF‐1, Carbopol® 940 and cationic guar gum), showing that the viscosity of rhamnolipid had a positive correlation with the increase of concentration, a negative correlation with the increase of pH, and that polymers instead of inorganic salts were suitable for thickening rhamnolipid. Further rheology tests indicated that Carbopol® Aqua SF‐1 imparted gel properties of rhamnolipid while cationic guar gum determined the liquid properties. In addition, the rhamnolipid‐containing moisturizing cream consisting of stearic acid/squalane ratios all showed shear‐thinning and gel behavior the same as the commercial ones. Visual appearance and particle size analysis indicated that all formulations exhibited high storage stabilities. The knowledge gained from this study may be useful for designing "sulfonate‐free" shampoo and cream with rheological properties that can be tailed for specific commercial cosmetic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) are a class of high‐performing fibre‐reinforced cementitious materials recognised for their increased ductility and durability compared to conventional cement‐based materials, owing to their autogenously controlled tight crack widths, even when subjected to high strains. To reduce ECC's environmental impact, this research examines the use of a low‐clinker binder − limestone‐calcined clay cement (LC3) − as an alternative to portland cement (PC), along with fly ash to further reduce the clinker proportion and the embodied CO2 of the formulations. In conventional concrete, LC3 hydrates to a denser microstructure resulting from the synergistic reaction between limestone and calcined clay. At the lower water contents typical of ECC and with the presence of fly ash, the influence of the binder composition on the microstructure is difficult to anticipate. To examine the influence of these compositional variables on microstructure, permeability and durability, the sulphate resistance of LC3‐based ECC is explored. Specifically, the ECC‐LC3 blends are designed with high clinker replacement rate of 75% by mass of binder and contain either conventional fly ash or reclaimed fly ash at 50% by mass of binder. Expansion of ECC‐LC3 samples subjected to standard sodium sulphate test conditions was measured up to 12 months and the depth of penetration of sulphates into the ECC‐LC3 of varying compositions was quantified using micro‐X‐Ray Fluorescence (microXRF) imaging and modelling. The expansion results show that the ECC‐LC3 formulations performed better than the PC samples and can provide adequate resistance to external sulphate attack, even when reclaimed fly ashes are used in place of the conventional ash. In addition, the shallow penetration of sulphate into these cementitious composites demonstrates the low diffusion coefficients values that were determined using the quantitative data from MicroXRF imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous studies, CST has been identified as having an immunostimulatory effect on Caenorhabditis elegans and macrophage of rats. Here, we further investigated its immunomodulatory effects on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). LPS‐stimulated PBMCs inflammatory model was established. Flow cytometry was applied to measure phagocytosis of PBMCs. Cytokine mRNA and protein expression levels of LPS‐stimulated PBMCs with or without CST were measured by qRT‐PCR and ELISA. The transcriptomic profile of CST‐treated PBMCs was investigated by RNA‐sequencing. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encylopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) were applied to find potential signalling pathways. PBMCs showed a significant increase in phagocytic activity at 6 h after being incubated with CST at the concentration of 10 μg/mL. In the presence of LPS, CST maintained and promoted the expression of TNF‐α and chemokine CCL24. The content of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IFN‐γ, which were released from LPS‐stimulated PBMCs, was reduced by CST at 6 h. Anti‐inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐4, IL‐13 and TGF‐β1, were significantly increased by CST at 24 h. A total of 277 differentially expressed immune‐related genes (DEIRGs) were detected and cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction was highly enriched. CST presented obvious anti‐inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects in LPS‐induced PBMCs inflammatory model not only by improving the ability of PBMCs to clear pathogens but also by decreasing pro‐inflammatory cytokines and increasing anti‐inflammatory cytokines. And the mechanism may be related to cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balantioides coli (=Balantidium coli), a large ciliated protozoan, is reported in multiple free‐ranging and captive primate species, often in association with a clinical presentation that requires medical intervention. This report describes the clinical effectiveness of paromomycin sulfate against B.coli in zoo‐kept mandrill monkeys (Mandrillus sphinx, at orally doses of 8–31 mg/kg, once daily (SID) for 7 days) and gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla, at orally doses of 1.4–3.1 mg/kg, SID for 5 days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sonopiezoelectric therapy (SPT) has gained ever‐increasing prominence in tumor therapy as a combination of ultrasound (US) and piezoelectric nanomaterials to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) for tumor suppression. In this study, the facile hydrothermal method is used to construct the distinct 2D piezocatalyst Bi2Fe4O9 nanosheets (BFO NSs). The engineered BFO NSs can create a piezoelectric field when exposed to US irradiation, facilitating the separation of electron–hole (e−–h+) pairs to play a crucial role in Fe3+/Fe2+ circulation, which catalyzes the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS), resulting in an amplified production of cytotoxic sulfate radical (SO4•−). The produced SO4•− combines with ROS generated by SPT including hydroxyl radicals (•OH), and singlet oxygen (1O2), leading to the augmented oxidative tumor suppression. The BFO NSs and PMS are further integrated into a thermal hydrogel (BFO/PMS‐Gel) for in vitro and in vivo investigations on their catalytic antitumor effects. In both in vitro and in vivo studies, it is validated that BFO/PMS‐Gel, under US irradiation, significantly enhances radicals generation efficiency, which achieves superior antitumor performance while maintaining high therapeutic biocompatibility and biosafety, providing a representative paradigm of US‐activated multiple radicals production as enabled by piezoelectric nanomedicine for antitumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystalline ferric sulfates (e.g., ferricopiapite and Fe(OH)SO4) have been proposed at multiple locations on Mars by the orbiter. While at Meridiani Planum and Gale Crater by rover missions, amorphous ferric sulfates were also suggested to exist in soils and sedimentary rocks. Ferric sulfates with different hydration degrees may play a key role in the water cycle on Mars. In order to understand the role of the hydrated ferric sulfates in the water cycle and their exact hydration states on Mars, five crystalline ferric sulfates and seven amorphous ferric sulfates with different hydration states were synthesized in the laboratory. The water content (number of H2O molecules per ferric sulfate molecule) was quantified by Raman spectroscopy and Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), respectively. It was found that the amorphous ferric sulfates water content has a good relationship with the SO4 tetrahedron main Raman feature position around 1,000 cm−1, shown as the intensity and area of water feature around 3,500 cm−1 over SO4 tetrahedron main Raman feature around 1,000 cm−1, respectively. Twelve ferric sulfates' Hα emission line area at 656.7 nm was normalized by the O emission line area at 778 nm in LIBS spectra. The crystalline and amorphous ferric sulfates all showed a good relationship between the values of normalized results and the water content. These results will aid us in precisely constraining the exact phases of hydrated ferric sulfates, provide a better reference for ChemCam, SuperCam, and Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman and Luminescence for Organics and Chemicals data interpretation and their use to quantify the water content in detected targets. Plain Language Summary: Hydrated ferric sulfates have been suggested to occur on Mars at different sites (e.g., Meridiani Planum and Gale Crater) during orbital and rover missions. The hydration states of crystalline or amorphous ferric sulfates are greatly affected by environmental conditions, and the amorphous ferric sulfates are metastable phases, which are considered to be produced by rapid dehydration and rehydration processes. The presence of ferric sulfates indicates the occurrence of water‐related processes, while the water content within these compounds can provide valuable insights into Mars' water history. However, the exact phases of ferric sulfates cannot be precisely constrained except for the jarosite that limited our knowledge about the water‐related geochemical process on Mars. In the present study, 12 hydrated ferric sulfates were synthesized in the laboratory and measured by Raman and Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) spectroscopy. The unique Raman features of those ferric sulfates will help to identify them on Mars by Raman spectroscopy. Besides, the methods of water content quantification were developed based on their Raman and LIBS spectra, respectively. It will help us to better understand the water cycle and provide a better reference for payloads such as ChemCam, SuperCam, and SHERLOC to determine the ferric sulfates on Mars. Key Points: Seven amorphous ferric sulfates with specific hydration degrees (6w–12w) were synthesizedWater quantification of amorphous and crystalline ferric sulfates is achieved using Raman and Laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy spectroscopic methodsA new pathway of amorphous ferric sulfates formed by unsaturated solution is suggested to occur on Mars [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of repeated copper sulfate (CuSO4) treatments on the growth and survival of juvenile Walleye Sander vitreus. Methods: Culture tanks were treated with 0 or 0.76 mg/L CuSO4 every other day for five exposures, then were not treated for 14 consecutive days; this regimen was repeated for a total of 10 exposures over the course of 50 days. Copper sulfate treatments had a half‐life of about 60 min. The study was conducted in flow‐through well water at ≈1.5 L/m and 23.8°C. Result: The resulting survival data for CuSO4 treated and nontreated fish was 96% and 85% survival, respectively, and not statically different. There was no difference in weight, with treated weighing 25.3 g compared to 25.2 g for nontreated control fish. Both groups had weight increases of over 400% during the study. Neither group differed in length, with treated fish reaching a mean length of 14.6 cm and nontreated reaching a mean length of 14.5 cm. Conclusion: The results indicate that repeated CuSO4 treatments had no effect on Walleye growth or survival. Impact statementCopper sulfate has a long history of use in aquaculture. While it is no secret that copper toxicity or other deleterious effects can happen, if used appropriately copper sulfate can be one of the most useful chemicals in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Degradation of organic coatings is essential for recycling valuable substrates. Despite the development of strategies for this purpose, the resulting degradations are typically constrained by the composition of the coating. This paper presents a simple strategy utilizing radicals induced by UV for the degradation of diverse organic coatings. The sulfate radicals, generated from UV‐exposed ammonium persulfates, induce the degradation of various organic coatings, including layer‐by‐layer assembled coating composed of alginate and chitosan polymers as well as polydopamine coating. This strategy also facilitates the separation of two adhered substrates by degrading the adhesive polymer layer positioned between them. This novel approach enables the complete degradation of various organic coatings in aqueous conditions without imposing restrictions on their composition, leading to the recovery of the original surface properties of the substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of potassium aluminum sulfate (alum) application on the stainability and translucency of computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD‐CAM) materials after coffee thermocycling (CTC). Materials and Methods: Disk‐shaped specimens (Ø10 × 1 mm; N = 200) were fabricated by using additively (Crowntec [CT] and Varseo Smile Crown Plus [VS]) and subtractively manufactured (Brilliant Crios [RCR], CEREC Block [FC], and Vita Enamic [VE]) CAD‐CAM materials and polished. All specimens were randomly divided into two groups as alum applied and control (n = 10). All specimens were then subjected to CTC (10,000 cycles at 5–55°C) and color coordinates were measured at each time interval. Color differences (ΔE00) and relative translucency parameters (RTPs) were calculated and the data were statistically analyzed (a = 0.05). Results: Among tested time intervals, alum applied specimens had their lowest ΔE00 after alum application (p ≤ 0.006), except for FC (p = 0.177). In addition, alum applied RCR had lower ΔE00 values than its control specimens (p = 0.029). Alum applied specimens had their lowest RTP after CTC (p < 0.001) and alum application decreased the RTP of CT (p = 0.010). CTC reduced the RTP of all materials in control groups (p < 0.001). Alum applied CT had higher RTP than its control specimens (p = 0.049). Conclusions: Alum application's effect on color change varied depending on the material and alum mostly resulted in clinically acceptable changes in translucency. CTC led to unacceptable color and translucency changes based on previously reported threshold values. Clinical Significance: Optical properties of CAD‐CAM materials and the sustainability of these properties over time is critical for longevity. Alum may improve the color stability of reinforced composite resin when subjected to long‐term coffee consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sulfur (S) mass fraction of carbonate minerals can be used to reconstruct the environmental conditions and S sources at the time of precipitation. As S is present in a wide range of host materials, there is an urgent need to develop a method to extract S from a single mineral phase. We have developed a method to extract structurally substituted sulfate, termed carbonate‐associated sulfate (CAS), from geological and biogenic carbonate minerals using weakly acidic cation exchange resins. Two types of weakly acidic cation exchange resin (methacrylic acid and acrylic acid types) were tested to minimise the blank S contents and decompose carbonate. After repeated cleaning of the resins with high‐purity water or HCl, the blank S contents were reduced to < 0.1 μg, which is < 0.1% of the CAS in the samples. The cleaned resin was used to dissolve 10 and 25 mg of the JCp‐1 carbonate certified reference material (CRM; Japanese National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, AIST). Samples and resin were added to 8 ml of high‐purity water at resin/sample ratios of 2, 5, 10 and 20, set on a shaking table, and reacted. The supernatant solutions were sampled sequentially from 0.5 h to 87 h after the start of experiments. The results show that the optimal conditions for decomposing 10 mg of carbonate is a resin/sample ratio of ≥ 10 with a reaction time of ≥ 40 h. Carbonate‐associated S mass fractions were measured for six geological and biogenic carbonate CRMs. The coefficient of variation in carbonate‐associated S mass fractions was ≤ 7%, regardless of the type of resins used. The mass fractions determined with this method recover 74–94% of the total S mass fractions reported in previous studies, suggesting that this method dissolved carbonate, and did not leach other S‐bearing fractions that are not resistant to weak acids. Another benefit of this method is that the decomposed solution can be introduced directly into the ion chromatograph, allowing for more sensitive analyses. We emphasise that this method can also be used for S isotopic measurements, as S contamination from other S‐bearing mineral phases is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary ion mass spectrometry was used to test the δ18O and δ34S nanogram‐scale homogeneity of a suite of candidate sulfate minerals, ultimately selecting three barite, two anhydrite, and two gypsum samples from the Royal Ontario Museum that have repeatabilities for their SIMS measurements of better than ±0.39‰ and ±0.37‰ (1s) for oxygen and sulfur isotope ratios, respectively. Metrological splits of each of the seven materials were sent to multiple gas source isotope ratio mass spectrometry laboratories in order to establish their absolute 18O/16O and 34S/32S ratios. The inter‐laboratory results of GS‐IRMS analyses yielded reasonably narrow ranges in δ18OVSMOW, whereas larger variations in δ34SVCDT values were found between the results from the gas source laboratories. All samples have good reproducibility within laboratories of GS‐IRMS 103δ18O values of between ±0.24‰ and ±0.44‰ (1s). The reproducibility within laboratories of GS‐IRMS 103δ34S values range from ±0.07‰ to ±0.99‰ (1s). Here we also discuss some of the current analytical limitations affecting these isotope‐mineral systems. A total of 256 metrological splits have been prepared from each of these seven materials; these aliquots will be made available to the global geochemical community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the interaction between molybdenum (Mo) and organic matter during microbial sulfate reduction is critical for the use of Mo to reconstruct marine redox conditions throughout Earth's history. However, little is known about Mo isotope fractionation and how it relates to organic matter remineralization during microbial sulfate reduction. Here, we report Mo abundances and isotopic (δ98Mo) compositions for bulk‐rock, non‐lithogenic and sequentially extracted fractions, including carbonate (carb), pyrite, and organic matter (OM), of seep carbonate rocks. Our data indicate that the difference between δ98Mocarb and δ98MoOM (Δ98Mocarb‐OM) displays significant variability in the studied samples, ranging between 0.72 and 1.01‰. Remarkably, the obtained Δ98Mocarb‐OM values indicate correlative trends with stable carbon isotope ratios and bulk abundances of (a) total organic carbon, (b) Mo, and (c) pyrite in seep carbonates, which we interpret as reflecting sustained adsorption of isotopically light Mo onto organic matter during enhanced sulfate reduction. On this basis, we put forward the concept that Δ98Mocarb‐OM of authigenic carbonate rocks can be used as a measure of the intensity of sulfate reduction and for reconstructing past interactions between Mo and organic matter in marine sediments. Plain Language Summary: Molybdenum (Mo) is a useful element for reconstructing marine redox conditions throughout the Earth's history. The sequestration of Mo through sulfate‐reducing bacterial activity acts as a significant pathway for Mo burial in the ocean. However, the impact of microbial sulfate reduction in Mo isotope fractionation remains unclear, preventing the understanding of the interaction between Mo and organic matter. We report Mo abundances and isotopic (δ98Mo) compositions for different phases extracted from seep carbonate rock fractions, including carbonate (carb), pyrite, and organic matter (OM). Our findings indicate that organic matter tends to preferentially adsorb isotopically light Mo. The observed δ98Mo difference between carbonate and organic matter fractions (Δ98Mocarb‐OM from 0.72 to 1.01‰) represents the first report of the extent of Mo isotope fractionation during Mo adsorption to organic matter in marine environments. We attribute greater Δ98Mocarb‐OM offsets to the preferential adsorption of isotopically light Mo onto organic matter during enhanced sulfate reduction, and in turn put forward the idea that such offsets can be possibly used in the sedimentary record to trace the intensity of sulfate reduction and to reconstruct the past interaction between Mo and organic matter in marine sediments. Key Points: Organic matter tends to adsorb isotopically light Mo, resulting in low δ98Mo values of organic matter in marine environmentsIsotopically light Mo is inferred to be preferentially adsorbed onto organic matter during enhanced sulfate reductionδ98Mo offset between carbonate and organic phases in authigenic carbonates is promising to trace the past intensity of sulfate reduction [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the surface roughness and friction of different orthodontic archwires after exposure to salbutamol sulphate inhalation, an anti‐asthmatic medication. Methods: Orthodontic archwires (stainless‐steel [StSt], nickel‐titanium [NiTi], beta‐titanium [β‐Ti], and copper‐NiTi [Cu‐NiTi]) were equally divided into two groups. The exposed groups were subjected to 20 mg salbutamol sulphate for 21 days and kept in artificial saliva. The control groups were only kept in artificial saliva. Surface changes were visualized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The average surface roughness (Ra) was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM), and friction resistance forces were assessed using a universal testing machine. Statistical analyses were performed using t‐tests and ANOVA followed by post hoc tests. Results: Salbutamol sulphate did not change the surface roughness of StSt and NiTi archwires (p >.05). However, the change in the surfaces of β‐Ti and Cu‐NiTi archwires was significant (p <.001). The frictional forces of exposed StSt, NiTi, and Cu‐NiTi archwires did not change (p >.05). However, the frictional forces of β‐Ti archwires increased significantly after exposure to salbutamol sulphate (p =.021). Brushing with fluoride after exposure to salbutamol sulphate increased the frictional forces of β‐Ti only (p =.002). Conclusions: Salbutamol sulphate inhalation significantly affected the surface texture of β‐Ti and Cu‐NiTi orthodontic archwires and increased the friction of β‐Ti archwires. These deteriorating effects were not detected on the surface of StSt and NiTi archwires. Therefore, we suggest that β‐Ti and copper titanium archwires should be used cautiously in individuals under salbutamol sulphate inhalation treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widely discussed single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are regarded as a kind of attractive material for sulfate radical‐based advanced oxidation processes (SR‐AOPs) owing to their maximum atomic utilization efficiency and outstanding stability. Currently, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have appeared as prospective precursors for building SACs due to extensive chelating sites, functional adjustability, and structural tunability. However, there are few critical and systematic reviews about the application of MOF‐derived SACs in SR‐AOPs, especially in‐depth analysis of the mechanisms. Therefore, this review seeks to offer a thorough summary of the development of MOF‐derived SACs in SR‐AOPs. First, the unique advantages of MOFs as derivative precursors for SACs are discussed thoroughly. Afterward, the current synthesis strategies are elaborated categorically to unveil the formation process of single atoms and their coordination environments. Notably, the roles of different reaction sites including the generation of reactive species and mediating electron transfer are further analyzed to explain mechanisms comprehensively. Thereafter, the characterization techniques and theoretical calculations for mechanisms studies are also highlighted. Eventually, critical insights into present challenges and future developments are proposed, which are expected to enhance the catalytic efficiency of MOF‐derived SACs in SR‐AOPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mars 2020 Perseverance rover has examined and sampled sulfate‐rich clastic rocks from the Hogwallow Flats member at Hawksbill Gap and the Yori Pass member at Cape Nukshak. Both strata are located on the Jezero crater western fan front, are lithologically and stratigraphically similar, and have been assigned to the Shenandoah formation. In situ analyses demonstrate that these are fine‐grained sandstones composed of phyllosilicates, hematite, Ca‐sulfates, Fe‐Mg‐sulfates, ferric sulfates, and possibly chloride salts. Sulfate minerals are found both as depositional grains and diagenetic features, including intergranular cement and vein‐ and vug‐cements. Here, we describe the possibility of various sulfate phases to preserve potential biosignatures and the record of paleoenvironmental conditions in fluid and solid inclusions, based on findings from analog sulfate‐rich rocks on Earth. The samples collected from these outcrops, Hazeltop and Bearwallow from Hogwallow Flats, and Kukaklek from Yori Pass, should be examined for such potential biosignatures and environmental indicators upon return to Earth. Plain Language Summary: Images and compositional data of Mars rocks taken by the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover at Hogwallow Flats and Yori Pass in Jezero crater show an abundance of sulfate minerals. The goal of this study was to describe the characteristics of these rocks with close‐up views of places where these rocks were abraded to expose fresh rock surface, and to make preliminary interpretations of any preservation potential of any possible environmental and biosignature data. We found sand and silt grains with a variety of colors, some of which are sulfate minerals. We also found sulfate mineral crystals between and cross‐cutting the grains. The sulfate sand and silt grains may have originally grown as chemical sediments in past salty lakes, and the sulfate crystals found between and cross‐cutting the grains formed from past salty groundwater. Sulfate mineral grains and crystals on Earth contain fluid and solid inclusions, which are remnant water, air and other gases, other minerals, and microorganisms and organic compounds. From this knowledge of terrestrial sulfate minerals, we suggest that samples of Hogwallow Flats and Yori Pass, if returned to Earth, should be investigated for fluid and solid inclusions to be evaluated for any enclosed past Martian water, gas, minerals, and possible biosignatures. Key Points: We describe sub‐mm scale observations for abrasion patches Berry Hollow and Uganik Island at Hogwallow Flats and Yori Pass on the western fan front in Jezero craterThese are sulfate‐rich clastic rocks with various diagenetic features that suggest sulfate‐rich surface waters and groundwaterEnvironmental data, such as parent water temperatures and compositions, and any potential biosignatures, may have been preserved [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate crystals typically exhibit minimal optical anisotropy due to the near‐zero polarizability anisotropy (δ) of [SO4]2− tetrahedra, arising from highly symmetrical electron clouds. Recent research sought to enhance δ via chemical modifications, such as fluorination. However, the resultant crystals often maintain subpar optical anisotropy, frequently with birefringence values below 0.1. In this study, we have uncovered that δ can be significantly strengthened by chemically tailoring the tetrahedral [SO4]2− with anisotropic π‐conjugated modules. This has been demonstrated by several newly proposed S−O‐Org (Org: π‐conjugated organic species) moieties, which show a sharp increase in δ based on theoretical computations. To further validate this experimentally, we synthesized and characterized six new 3‐pyridinesulfonate crystals with the formula A(3‐C5H4NSO3) ⋅ xH2O (A=Li, Ag, K, Rb, Cs, and NH4; x=0 and 1). Notably, these materials exhibit strong optical anisotropy, with birefringence values ranging from 0.240 to 0.312 at 546 nm. These values are approximately 23 to 145.5 times greater than those of corresponding sulfates, and they outperform a vast number of sulfate‐related optical materials, thus verifying the effectiveness of the proposed strategy. Furthermore, the title compounds exhibit diverse microstructure peculiarities influenced by the size and binding natures of the counter cations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study is to use machine learning models to predict drinking water quality from a public health nursing approach. Design: Machine learning study. Sample: "Water Quality Dataset" was used in the study. The dataset contains physical and chemical measurements of water quality for 2400 different water bodies. The process consists of four stages: Data processing with Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique, hyperparameter tuning with 10‐fold cross‐validation, modeling and comparative analysis. 80% of the dataset is allocated as training data and 20% as test data. ML models logistic regression, K‐nearest neighbor, support vector machine, random forest, XGBoost, AdaBoost Classifier, Decision Tree algorithms were used for water quality prediction. Accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score and AUC performance metrics of ML models were compared. To evaluate the performance of the models, 10‐fold cross‐validation was used and a comparative analysis was performed. The p‐values of the models were also compared. Results: N this study, where drinking water quality was predicted with seven different ML algorithms, it can be said that XGBoost and Random Forest are the best classification models in all performance metrics. There is a significant difference in all ML algorithms according to the p‐value. The H0 hypothesis is accepted for these algorithms. According to the H0 hypothesis, there is no difference between actual values and predicted values. Conclusion: In conclusion, the use of ML models in the prediction of drinking water quality can help nurses greatly improve access to clean water, a human right, be more knowledgeable about water quality, and protect the health of individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) contribute to acid rain, cloud formation, and albedo, and thus influence the climate. Their global emissions are quite uncertain, especially contributions from freshwater wetlands. We investigated the processes leading to hydrogen sulfide (H2S), methanethiol (MeSH), and dimethyl sulfide (Me2S) emissions in a slightly acidic peatland and found multiple indications that organic matter degradation rather than sulfate reduction is the main driver for Me2S emissions in this system. Evidence includes: the lack of labeled Me234S production after addition of Na234SO4 despite high emissions of Me34SH and H234S, and increased emission rates when soils were amended with organic substrates containing thiol groups (H2S emissions), methylthiols (MeSH), and dimethyl sulfonio groups (Me2S). VSC precursors were identified from an Untargeted Metabolomics data set from the same soil. The abundance of sulfur cycling microbes like Acidobacteria SD 1 and Desulfosporosinus correlated with VSC emissions. We conclude that organic matter degradation is more important than sulfate reduction as a source of Me2S in our peatland system, and potentially also in other organic and wetland soils. Plain Language Summary: Sulfur gases influence acid rain and the way clouds form. In peats and swamps, there are two mechanisms to form sulfur gases. First, when the soils are flooded soil microbes use sulfate for respiration as an alternative to oxygen for the degradation of organic matter. During this process, microbes can convert sulfate to the sulfur gases hydrogen sulfide and methanethiol. In some wetland soils, methanethiol can then be converted to dimethyl sulfide, but we found that this only happens very slowly in our peatland soil. Second, soil microbes degrade organic sulfur compounds and produce sulfur gases as waste even in conditions where O2 is present. Which sulfur gas is produced depends on the structure of the organic sulfur compound that serves as a substrate. Compounds with a free ‐S‐H group form hydrogen sulfide (H‐S‐H), compounds with a ‐S‐CH3 group form methanethiol (CH3‐S‐H), compounds with a ‐S(‐CH3)2 group form dimethyl sulfide (H3C‐S‐CH3), while compounds without those groups do not produce sulfur gases. We also found microbes that could be feeding on these VSC precursors. This means that emissions of sulfur gases from wetlands are caused not just by the reduction of sulfate under anoxic conditions, but directly from the degradation of organic matter, even in oxic soils outside of wetlands. Key Points: Organic matter decomposition is a main source of volatile sulfur compound (VSC) emitted from organic soils and wetlandsSulfate reduction is also an important source of methanethiol and hydrogen sulfide but not dimethyl sulfideInterconversion of volatile sulfur compounds is slower than formation and emission [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate is a potential pollutant and important nutrient linked with the nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus cycles. The importance of different anthropogenic sulfate sources in suburban streams (septic systems, fertilizer, road salt, and infrastructure) is uncertain, and the temporal dynamics of stream export sparsely documented. We study sources and export dynamics of sulfate in suburban and forested headwater catchments. Stream baseflow discharge and sulfate concentrations were strongly positively correlated in both watersheds with the highest values in spring. Suburban concentrations and fluxes (2.48–7.5 mg/L or 25.8–78.1 μM, 16.6 kg/ha/yr) were consistently higher than forested (0.56–2.78 mg/L or 5.8–28.9 μM, 5 kg/ha/yr). Following precipitation, sulfate concentrations in both forested and suburban streams increased to concentrations above pre‐storm values and remained high after peak discharge. These dynamics suggest that both catchments have a large pool of sulfate that can be mobilized under wet conditions. Ridge‐top forest soil samples contained 210 kg/ha stored, extractable sulfate. Current atmospheric sulfate deposition rates (5–7 kg/ha/yr) are approximately in balance with sulfate export in the forested stream. In the suburban watershed, we estimated septic fields contribute up to 11 kg/ha/yr (about half from surfactants) and lawn care up to 4.3 kg/ha/yr and are the most likely sources of elevated stream sulfate. Sulfate sulfur (4.9–5.8‰ forested; 6.1–7.0‰ suburban) and oxygen isotope values (0.7–2.0‰ forested; −0.1–4.1‰ suburban) are consistent with this interpretation, but do not provide strong corroboration due to large variation and overlap in estimated source values. Plain Language Summary: Sulfate can be a nutrient or pollutant that alters stream biogeochemistry depending on dissolved concentrations. For decades, atmospheric sulfur deposition was elevated due to regional anthropogenic emissions. Regulation in the 1990s resulted in decreasing deposition and increasing importance of other sulfur sources, for example, associated with land use. We studied suburban sulfate sources, including infrastructure and activities not widely recognized as sources of stream sulfate. We measured dissolved sulfate concentrations and sulfate tracer isotopes in neighboring forested and suburban watersheds. Sulfate inputs and exports are compared with budgets of possible sulfate contributions to the stream from septic systems, lawn care, road salt, building materials, and historic agriculture. The suburban stream exports about 3x more sulfate a year from the watershed than the forested stream. Extra suburban stream sulfate appears to be largely caused by human waste and cleaning products flowing to septic fields and lawn care. More sulfate is transported to the stream during the wetter spring and after rain. This elevated transport may be because the groundwater table moves upwards during wetter times and transports sulfate that was stored in soil to the stream. Identifying suburban sources of sulfate pollution is important to protecting stream health. Key Points: The suburban stream has elevated sulfate concentrations and fluxes, likely due to contributions from septic systems and lawn careSulfate mobilized in seasonal‐ and event‐scale wet conditions in both forested and suburban streamsSulfate in the suburban stream is associated with soil storage mobilized in wet conditions, not runoff from impervious surfaces [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Preparation of BaSO4 from samples of atmospheric rain, snow, and aerosols has been used for δ18O and δ34S analyses. In the present study, we investigated the effect of various sample pretreatments on δ18O and δ34S values determined from a Na2SO4 reagent solution and samples of atmospheric precipitation to improve assay time and cost efficiency. Methods: BaSO4 was prepared from a Na2SO4 solution by (a) evaporative concentration, (b) evaporation to dryness, (c) evaporation to dryness after adding HCl, and (d) evaporation to concentration after adding HCl, followed by cooling and then precipitation using a BaCl2 solution. To analyze the atmospheric precipitation samples for δ18O, BaSO4 prepared from the samples was treated with diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) and SO42− and separated chromatographically. The values of δ18O and δ34S were measured using a continuous‐flow elemental analyzer coupled to an isotope‐ratio mass spectrometer. Results: The δ34S values in BaSO4 precipitated from Na2SO4 solution determined by methods (a)–(c) were consistent within precisions of ±0.5‰. The δ18O values of methods (a) and (b) were consistent within ±0.2‰, whereas the δ18O values of methods (c) and (d) increased with increasing HCl concentrations. Similar results were obtained from samples of atmospheric precipitations. The δ18O values from DTPA‐treated BaSO4 were consistent with those obtained by chromatographic separation within ±0.5‰. Conclusions: We found no significant differences in the effects of various pretreatments (acidification, heating, concentration, and drying) on δ18O and δ34S values in sulfate from samples of atmospheric precipitation and aerosols extracted as BaSO4 if HCl was not added to the sample before heating and BaSO4 was treated with DTPA for the δ18O analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two neodymium sulfate based purely inorganic networks, [NH4][Nd(SO4)2(H2O)3] ⋅ H2O (1) and [Nd2(SO4)3(H2O)4] ⋅ H2O (2) have been synthesized at different reaction temperatures and pH values. The structure of 1 features a two‐dimensional (2D) anionic corrugated sheet with an sql topological net built up by linking NdO8 units and μ2‐SO42− anions, in which the NH4+ charge‐compensating/templating cations occupy the intersheet layers. While 2 possesses a 3D neutral framework with an unprecedented (3,42,7‐c) net constructed by NdO9 units and μ4‐ and μ6‐SO42− linkers. They exhibit thermally induced irreversible structural transformation associated with the dehydration and the changes in coordination geometry and dimensionality. Both compound 1 and 2 display typical antiferromagnetic interactions between the Nd3+ centres. In addition, the CO2 adsorption isotherms of the desolvated samples 1 and 2 were also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Indoxyl sulfate and parathyroid hormone (PTH), which accumulate in chronic kidney disease (CKD), have been reported to reduce cytochrome P450(CYP)3A activity. Homozygotes of the CYP3A5*3 allele have reduced CYP3A5 activity compared to carriers of at least one CYP3A5*1 allele. 4β‐Hydroxycholesterol (4β‐OHC) has been established as an endogenous substrate reflecting CYP3A activity. 4β‐OHC is produced through hydroxylation by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 and by autoxidation of cholesterol, whereas 4α‐hydroxycholesterol (4α‐OHC) is produced solely by autoxidation of cholesterol. This study focused on CKD patients and evaluated the effects of plasma indoxyl sulfate and intact‐PTH concentrations on plasma 4β‐OHC concentration, 4β‐OHC/total cholesterol ratio and 4β‐OHC–4α‐OHC, with consideration of the influence of CYP3A5 polymorphism. Methods: Sixty‐three CKD patients were analysed and divided into CYP3A5 carrier group (n = 26) and non‐carrier group (n = 37). Results: Plasma indoxyl sulfate significantly correlated inversely with 4β‐OHC concentration and with 4β‐OHC–4α‐OHC in both the CYP3A5*1 carrier group (r = −0.42, P =.034; r = −0.39, P =.050, respectively) and the non‐carrier group (r = −0.45, P =.0054; r = −0.39, P =.019, respectively). However, multiple regression analysis did not identify plasma indoxyl sulfate concentration as a significant independent factor associated with any of the CYP3A activity indices. There was no significant correlation between plasma intact‐PTH concentration and any of the CYP3A activity indices. Conclusions: The present results suggest that plasma indoxyl sulfate and intact‐PTH concentrations do not have clinically significant effects on CYP3A activity in patients with CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is a protein‐bound uremic toxin that causes uremic sarcopenia. IS has poor dialysis clearance; however, the addition of a binding competitor improves its removal efficiency. Methods: Dialysis experiments were performed using N‐acetyl‐l‐tryptophan (L‐NAT) instead of l‐tryptophan (Trp) using pooled sera obtained from dialysis patients. The molecular structures of L‐NAT and Trp were similar to that of IS. Therefore, we examined whether Trp and L‐NAT were involved in muscle atrophy in the same manner as IS by performing culture experiments using a human myotube cell line. Results: The removal efficiency of L‐NAT was the same as that of Trp. However, L‐NAT concentrations in the pooled sera increased at the end of the experiment. Trp (1 mM) decreased the area of human myocytes, similar to IS, whereas L‐NAT did not. Conclusion: L‐NAT is a binding competitor with the ability to remove protein‐bound IS while preventing sarcopenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SCMs with a large specific surface area, such as calcined clays or fine limestone powder, can significantly accelerate the occurrence of the aluminate heat flow peak during the early hydration of blended cements. These systems therefore require a higher amount of sulfate. While this effect has been drawn back to the sulfate incorporation into C‐S‐H, which is formed more rapidly due to the filler effect, it has been recently shown that in systems with high amounts of metakaolin, the sulfate balance is influenced by further mechanisms. This study provides new results on the influence of aluminum‐rich and aluminum‐free SCMs on the early hydration of alite in presence of calcium sulfate. A synthesized alite was blended with 5 wt% of anhydrite and its hydration was investigated by isothermal calorimetry and in‐situ XRD at a w/b ratio of 0.5. It was shown that the formed C‐S‐H is able to take up the calcium and sulfate ions, indicated by a depletion of the solid anhydrite after approximately 20 hours. This process is significantly accelerated by incorporating 30 wt% of a fine limestone filler. The addition of metakaolin leads to an acceleration of the alite hydration compared to the reference as well, but to a significantly lower extend compared to the limestone. However, this system requires a lower degree of alite reaction to reach sulfate depletion. This indicates that in metakaolin‐rich systems, the sulfate demand is influenced by further effects. The results from in‐situ‐XRD reveal that significant ettringite formation is taking place in the metakaolin‐blended system already during the first hours of hydration. Correlations between the degree of alite hydration and the rate of sulfate depletion provide new insights into the mechanisms affecting the sulfate balance and early hydration of blended cements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sulfur biogeochemical cycle controls the sulfur dynamics in the soil. In contrast to almost all deposited sulfur leaching out in temperate catchments, approximately 80% of the deposited S is retained in the catchments in subtropical regions. However, the mechanisms for sulfur retention were unclear, hindering the understanding of potential threats of legacy sulfur with environmental changes. Here, we demonstrated that sulfate reduction (as sulfide fixed in soil) was a prominent yet overlooked mechanism for sulfur retention in addition to the widely recognized sulfate adsorption in soil, based on a study on soil sulfur storage and stable isotope signatures within entire soil profiles in a typical subtropical catchment in China. Using a dual‐isotopic model, the sulfate reduction flux was further determined to be 30% of the S deposition. Due to a lot of deposited sulfur fixed via sulfate reduction, the release of soil legacy sulfur would be less in response to decreasing sulfur deposition compared to the projections only considering adsorption. However, the remobilization of large amounts of reduced S should be regarded as a threat to the environment under climate change in the future. Plain Language Summary: Sulfur budget in catchments reveals substantial retention of around 80% of deposited sulfur in subtropical soils, mitigating acidification arising from heightened sulfur deposition. The substantial sulfur retention was previously ascribed to sulfate adsorption. However, our study unveils sulfate reduction as a prominent yet overlooked retention mechanism, evidenced by soil sulfur storage estimates and stable isotope signatures across complete soil profiles in a typical subtropical Chinese catchment. Sulfate adsorption displays reversibility with declining atmospheric deposition. However, sulfate reduction exhibits relatively stable except during periods of frequent drought attributed to climate change or the soil excavation induced by land‐use change. Key Points: A dual isotopic mass balance model was built to quantify the transformations of S in the ecosystemsSulfur retention accounted for approximately 80% of deposition based on the sulfur input–output budgets for 17 sites in subtropical ChinaSulfate reduction was a prominent mechanism for sulfur retention in addition to widely recognized sulfate adsorption [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wide bandgap and large birefringence, as well as strong second harmonic effect, are important but often mutually restraint prerequisites for deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals, a type of photoelectronic materials that play an indispensable role in the DUV laser generation. For the long term, the search for new DUV NLO crystals has focused on the alkali‐metal inorganic acid salts where the variations of anionic groups are considered. Herein, another design strategy is reported, in which the alkali‐metal cations are substituted by the asymmetrical non‐π‐conjugated cations to harmonize the above mutual restrictions. Accordingly, LiN2H5SO4 (LNHSO) crystal is obtained by the substitution of [N2H5]+ for alkali‐metal ions in LiMSO4 (M = Na, K, and Rb). Compared with LiMSO4 (M = Na, K, and Rb), LNHSO exhibits a moderate phase‐matching second‐harmonic generation response (0.6 × KH2PO4), increased birefringence (two to three times that of other sulfates), and the widest bandgap (7.69 eV) among all the reported NLO sulfates. The structural analysis and theoretical calculation reveal that the structural anisotropy, arrangement, and packing configuration of the novel NLO‐active [N2H5]+ cation in LNHSO effectively promotes the optical properties and enlarges the bandgap. This work provides an innovative perspective for the rational design and synthesis of DUV NLO materials with excellent performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate distribution of mineral sulphur (S) nutrition to nodules mediated by sulphate transporters is crucial for nitrogen fixation in symbiosis establishment process. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unknown. In this study, we characterized the function of Early Senescent Nodule 2 (MtESN2), a gene crucial to nitrogen fixation in Medicago truncatula. Mutations in MtESN2 resulted in severe developmental and functional defects including dwarf shoots, early senescent nodules, and lower nitrogenase activity under symbiotic conditions compared to wild‐type plants. MtESN2 encodes an M. truncatula sulphate transporter that is expressed only in roots and nodules, with the highest expression levels in the transition zone and nitrogen‐fixing zone of nodules. MtESN2 exhibited sulphate transport activity when expressed in yeast. Immunolocalization analysis showed that MtESN2‐yellow fluorescent protein fusion protein was localized to the plasma membranes of both uninfected and infected cells of nodules, where it might transport sulphate into both rhizobia‐infected and uninfected cells within the nodules. Our results reveal an unreported sulphate transporter that contributes to effective symbiosis and prevents nodule early senescence in M. truncatula. Summary statement: In the present study, we performed detailed phenotypic studies of loss‐of‐function mutants and functional characterization of MtESN2 and found that MtESN2 is a sulphate transporter localized on the plasma membrane of infected and uninfected nodule cells with an important role in nitrogen fixation. Our findings have expanded knowledge of an indispensable role of the subgroup II sulphate transporter MtESN2 in legume‐rhizobial symbiosis and nodule senescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) is being developed as a competitive technology for waste lithium‐ion battery recovery. However, the purity and concentration of lithium hydroxide generated from a BMED plant could not meet the product criteria for ternary lithium batteries, thus requiring additional condensation, purification, evaporation, and crystallization procedures. Herein, bipolar membrane crystallization (BMC) was proposed for the one‐step conversion of sulfate lithium into high‐purity lithium hydroxide monohydrate crystals. By mediating a continuous saturated feedstock in the salt compartment, it is possible to convert Li2SO4 into 5+ mol/L LiOH at a current density higher than 500 A/m2. Therefore, this unique design allows the production of 99.9% LiOH∙H2O by taking the principle of water dissociation in the bipolar membrane and the simultaneous crystallization procedure. This proof‐of‐concept study proves the feasibility and competitiveness of the BMC for waste lithium recovery by abandoning the condensation and evaporation procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the current water crisis worldwide, it is of great importance to find alternative sources of drinking water, such as sulfur water. This review analyses laboratory, pilot and industrial‐scale technologies available for sulfate removal from water produced for human consumption, from naturally occurring sulfur water and that resulting from human activities. Most of them exceed 90% removal efficiencies. However, the concentrations treated in each study were different; some technologies evaluate concentrations below recommended limits (250 mg L−1), while others evaluate much higher concentrations but require previous treatments. The technologies with higher energy requirements such as reverse osmosis and ion exchange have better removal efficiencies but require larger initial investments and have higher operational costs. Biological treatments, on the other hand, with lower energy and material requirements, are less expensive but require long retention times and depend on the season of the year and/or environmental conditions. Lastly, adsorption removal technologies fall in the middle, especially for energy requirements and operational costs and retention times. This review shows that although there are a variety of sulfate removal technologies suitable for use, there is still room for a novel methodology that removes sulfates from a wider range of concentrations more economically, more effectively and in less time than what is currently available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfated metabolites have shown to have potential as long‐term markers (LTMs) of anabolic–androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse. The compatibility of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) with trimethylsilyl (TMS)‐derivatives of non‐hydrolysed sulfated steroids has been demonstrated, where, after derivatisation, generally, two closely eluting isomers are formed that both have the same molecular ion [M‐H2SO4]•+. Sulfated reference standards are in limited commercial availability, and therefore, the current knowledge of the GC–MS behaviour of these compounds is mainly based on sulfating and analysing the available standard reference material. This procedure can unfortunately not cover all of the current known LTMs as these are often not available as pure substance. Therefore, in theory, some metabolites could be missed as they exhibit alternative behaviour. To investigate the matter, in‐house sulfated reference materials that bear resemblance to known sulfated LTMs were analysed on GC–MS in their TMS‐derivatised non‐hydrolysed state. The (alternative) gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric behaviour was mapped, evaluated and linked to the corresponding steroid structures. Afterwards, using fraction collection, known sulfated LTMs were isolated from excretion urine to confirm the observed findings. The categories that were selected were mono‐hydroxy‐diones, 17‐methyl‐3,17‐diols and 17‐keto‐3,16‐diols as these are commonly encountered AAS conformations. The ability to predict the GC–MS behaviour of non‐hydrolysed sulfated AAS metabolites is the corner stone of finding new metabolites. This knowledge is also essential, for example, for understanding AAS detection analyses, for the mass spectrometric characterization of metabolites of new designer steroids or when one needs to characterize an unknown steroid structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of authigenic carbonate in marine sediments has been regarded as a significant contributor to the carbon cycle over Earth's history. However, accurate quantification of the extent of authigenic carbonate formation in both modern and ancient oceans has been challenging due to limited approaches. Here, we analyzed calcium, magnesium, dissolved inorganic carbon, and alkalinity pore‐water profiles of 153 sites influenced by methane diffusion from the northern South China Sea. By combining these data with published data of diffusive sulfate flux, we found a significant positive correlation between carbonate precipitation rate and sulfate flux in the subseafloor. This correlation can be used to quantify the regional extent of authigenic carbonate formation, representing an advantage over a spatial interpolation approach. We therefore propose that the observed correlation can serve as a new approach for quantifying authigenic carbonate formation in shallow sediments along continental margins for both modern and ancient oceans. Plain Language Summary: Carbonate mineral precipitation through removing seawater dissolved inorganic carbon—the marine carbonate factory—plays a critical role in shaping marine carbon cycling and global climate. The formation of authigenic carbonate from pore‐water of marine sediments represents a variable share of the marine carbonate factory throughout geological history. However, it is challenging to quantify the extent of such authigenic carbonate formation. By analyzing pore‐water parameters from 153 sites influenced by methane diffusion of the northern South China Sea, we found a significant positive correlation between the rate of carbonate precipitation and the diffusive flux of sulfate into shallow sediments. Given the existence of estimates on the sizes of the seawater sulfate pool and diffusive fluxes of sulfate into sediments over Earth's history, we propose that the observed correlation can be used for quantifying authigenic carbonate formation in shallow sediments along continental margins through time, which will greatly advance our understanding for past carbon cycling and its relation to climate. Key Points: Porewater parameters from 153 sites of the northern South China Sea were evaluated to quantify the extent of authigenic carbonate formationRate of carbonate formation strongly correlates with diffusive flux of sulfate into sediments affected by methane diffusionA correlation of carbonate formation rate with sulfate flux is used to quantify most of authigenic carbonate formation in shallow sediments [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are promising high‐definition display candidates due to their narrow emission bandwidth and wide color gamut. However, efficient and stable pure‐red PeLEDs have rarely been achieved. Herein, a robust and strongly‐coordinated sulfate anion passivation strategy is reported to achieve a spectrally stable and efficient pure‐red PeLED with an electroluminescent peak at 630 nm and full width at half maximum of 27 nm. Octylammonium sulfate is employed to construct a PbSO4 layer on the surface of CsPbI3−xBrx nanocrystals, which can effectively inhibit phase separation under UV light, humidity, or heat treatment. Using sulfate passivated CsPbI3−xBrx NC film, pure red PeLEDs with high external quantum efficiency of 12.6%, excellent spectral stability, and an operational half‐life time of over 300 min (T50@100 cd cm−2) are fabricated. This work provides a new avenue to improve performance of pure red PeLEDs via strong‐coordinated sulfate passivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A regioselective fluoromethylation by ring‐opening of cyclic sulfamidates and sulfates with α‐fluorocarbanions and subsequent reductive desulfonylation is developed. Fluorobis(phenylsulfonyl)methane (FBSM) was explored as fluoromethide equivalent and the reaction was extended to the α‐fluorocarbanion of ethyl 2‐fluoroacetoacetate. This approach allows access to γ‐ and δ‐fluoroamines as well as γ‐ and δ‐fluoroalcohols in high yields. [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]

Four salts, namely, 2,4,6‐triaminopyrimidinium 6‐chloronicotinate dihydrate, C4H8N5+·C6H3ClNO2−·2H2O, (I), 2,4,6‐triaminopyrimidinediium pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylate dihydrate, C4H9N52+·C7H3NO42−·2H2O, (II), 2,4,6‐triaminopyrimidinediium sulfate monohydrate, C4H9N52+·SO42−·H2O, (III), and 2,4,6‐triaminopyrimidinium 3,5‐dinitrobenzoate dihydrate, C4H8N5+·C7H3N2O6−·2H2O, (IV), were synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction techniques. Proton transfer from the corresponding acid to the pyrimidine base has occurred in all four crystal structures. Of the four salts, two [(I) and (IV)] exist as monoprotonated bases and two [(II) and (III)] exist as diprotonated bases. In all four crystal structures, the acid interacts with the pyrimidine base through N—H...O hydrogen bonds, generating an R22(8) ring motif. The sulfate group mimics the role of the carboxylate anions. The water molecules present in compounds (I)–(IV) form water‐mediated large ring motifs. The formation of water‐mediated interactions in these crystal structures can be used as a model in the study of the hydration of nucleobases. Water molecules play an important role in building supramolecular structures. In addition to these strong hydrogen‐bonding interactions, some of the crystal structures are further enriched by aromatic π–π stacking interactions [(I) and (II)]. [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]

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Copyright of Chemie Ingenieur Technik (CIT) is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]