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3' → 5' exoribonucleases play a critical role in many aspects of RNA metabolism. RNase R, PNPase, and RNase II are the major contributors to RNA processing, maturation, and quality control in bacteria. Bacteria don't seem to have dedicated RNA degradation machineries to process different classes of RNAs. Under different environmental and physiological conditions, their roles can be redundant and sometimes overlapping. Here, I discuss why PNPase and RNase R may have switched their physiological roles in some bacterial species to adapt to environmental conditions, despite being biochemically distinct exoribonucleases.

Naturally occurring gas hydrates are established as an abundant reserve of natural gas. Production initiatives raised challenges such as low production rate, freezing problems, water, and sand production along with geomechanical concerns. Recent studies suggest that fracturing the sediment can significantly improve the conductivity and productivity of such reserves. This study is an initiative to verify the suitability of conventionally used polymer (guar) for fracturing at extremely low temperatures along with the integration of widely available gas hydrate inhibitors for efficient stimulation. Established inhibitors such as NaCl, CaCl 2 and KCl were introduced to linear and crosslinked gels to study their compatibility with the reference guar-based gels. The inhibitor integrated linear gel samples demonstrated similar performance trends to that of the reference gel establishing their compatibility with the polymer, whereas the inhibitor integrated crosslinked samples displayed deswelling nature. The low concentration inhibitor integrated linear gel samples performed superior to the reference gel whereas the high concentration sample inhibited the swelling performance of the polymer. Both the reference and inhibitor integrated linear gel samples gradually disintegrated after 48 h leaving behind soft cloudy residue, whereas the inhibitor integrated crosslinked samples rapidly released water and contracted into a solid residue which can cause serious flow related disruptions during operations and apparently damage the conductivity of the sediment for long term. This study delivers crucial understanding on how various salts interact with guar polymers at low temperatures and whether their presence can be a boon or bane during the design of a fracturing fluid. • Low temperature fracturing of hydrate-bearing sediments for improved gas recovery. • Integration of hydrate inhibitors with conventional gelling polymer used in hydraulic fracturing. • Inhibitor integrated linear gel samples demonstrated good integrity during tests. • Inhibitor integrated low concentration samples performed superiorly. • Inhibitor integrated crosslinked gels prone to deswelling and residue formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actin depolymerizing factors (ADFs), as the important actin-binding proteins (ABPs) with depolymerizing/severing actin filaments, play a critical role in plant growth and development, and in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the information and function of the ADF family in melon remains unclear. In this study, 9 melon ADF genes (CmADFs) were identified, distributed in 4 subfamilies, and located on 6 chromosomes respectively. Promoter analysis revealed that the CmADFs contained a large number of cis-acting elements related to hormones and stresses. The similarity of CmADFs with their Arabidopsis homologue AtADFs in sequence, structure, important sites and tissue expression confirmed that ADFs were conserved. Gene expression analysis showed that CmADFs responded to low and high temperature stresses, as well as ABA and SA signals. In particular, CmADF1 was significantly up-regulated under above all stress and hormone treatments, indicating that CmADF1 plays a key role in stress and hormone signaling responses, so CmADF1 was selected to further study the mechanism in plant tolerance low temperature. Under low temperature, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of CmADF1 in oriental melon plants showed increased sensitivity to low temperature stress. Consistently, the stable genetic overexpression of CmADF1 in Arabidopsis improved their low temperature tolerance, possibly due to the role of CmADF1 in the depolymerization of actin filaments. Overall, our findings indicated that CmADF genes, especially CmADF1, function in response to abiotic stresses in melon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperature usually results in the developmental deformity of flower organs, immensely affecting the quality of rose flowers. However, it's largely unknown about the regulatory mechanisms activated by low temperature. Here, we used a low temperature-sensitive Rosa hybrida cv. 'Peach Avalanche' to screen a MADS-box gene RhAGL6 via conjoint analysis between RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). Furthermore, we found that low temperature induced the hypermethylation and elevated histone 3 lys-27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) level on the RhAGL6 promoter, leading to decreased RhAGL6 expression. In addition, RhAGL6 silencing resulted in the formation of abnormal receptacles. We also found that the levels of gibberellins (GA3) and abscisic acid (ABA) in the receptacle under low temperature were lower and higher, respectively, than under normal temperature. Promoter activity analysis revealed that GA³ significantly activated RhAGL6 promoter activity, whereas ABA inhibited it. Thus, we propose that RhAGL6 regulates rose receptacle development by integrating epigenetic regulation and phytohormones signaling at low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α‐Al2O3, commonly known as corundum, plays a significant role in various industrial applications. Typically, the synthesis of α‐Al2O3 requires elevated temperatures exceeding 1200°C, which results in reduced specific surface area and increased particle size due to high‐temperature calcination. In this study, α‐Al2O3 powder was primarily investigated. The precursor was prepared by non‐hydrolytic sol‐gel (NHSG) method, employing alcohols and other nonaqueous oxygen donors in nucleophilic substitution reactions with AlCl3. The precursor was then processed by mechanochemical method, leading to the attainment of α‐Al2O3 at temperatures below 800°C. The resultant α‐Al2O3 was in the form of thin flakes, with significantly increased specific surface areas up to 27.9 m2/g. Upon characterizing the precursors post‐ball milling, a large amount of pentacoordinate aluminum was observed. The pentacoordinate aluminum has activated the alumina lattice and increased the phase transition rate, a key factor in the low temperature preparation of α‐Al2O3. This innovative approach not only simplifies the preparation process but also enables the production of high‐purity, large specific surface area lamellar α‐Al2O3 at lower temperatures, paving the way for more efficient and cost‐effective industrial processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the mechanical properties of reinforced concrete flexural and axial-tension members at low temperatures ranging from 273.15 to 108.15 K based on experimental and theoretical analyses. Special test chambers were used to separately apply mechanical forces and low temperatures to the test members. The steel strain caused by the mechanical and thermal restraint forces was obtained using the self-compensation test method. The effects of low temperatures on the tensile and flexural stiffness behaviors of reinforced concrete beams, as well as the internal forces generated because of the different linear expansion coefficients of concrete and steel at low temperatures, were analyzed. Analytical models were developed to predict the restraint stress corresponding to different temperatures. The accuracy of the analytical models was verified using the test results. The results show that the deformation stiffness of both flexural and axial-tension members increases linearly with decreasing temperature. The difference between the thermal deformation of concrete and steel bars becomes more considerable as the temperature decreases, resulting in nonnegligible restraint stress in the steel bars. The study can provide a basis for the design of structures in service at low and ultralow temperatures, such as liquefied natural gas storage tank structures. Practical Applications: Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is primarily composed of methane. After extraction from gas fields, it goes through a purification process; thereafter, it is subjected to a series of ultralow-temperature liquefaction steps and transported through specialized LNG carriers. LNG has extensive applications in various aspects of daily life, including energy supply, transportation, industrial use, and power generation. Compared with traditional fuels, LNG offers higher efficiency and environmental benefits. Nonetheless, optimizing the design of LNG storage facilities presents several technical challenges. Presently, reinforced concrete is the predominant material used in the construction of LNG storage facilities. To fully exploit the advantages of concrete structures in ultralow-temperature environments and reduce construction costs, comprehensive studies on the performance of concrete under such extreme conditions are crucial. This study is of immense scientific value and offers promising prospects for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The creep mechanism of a Co-based single-crystal (SX) superalloy at 760°C/800 MPa (∼90% yield strength) was revealed and differed from those of Re-containing Ni-based SX superalloys. Experimental alloy displays superior creep resistance in the early creep stage, likely due to the accumulation of matrix dislocations and W segregation-assisted shearing of γ′ phase by leading Shockley partial dislocations instead of Co and Cr segregation a < 112> SF ribbons in Re-containing Ni-based SX superalloys during the accelerating creep stage. Segregation-assisted local χ/η phase transformations at SFs stabilize and enhance SF interactions, contributing to the subsequent slow accelerating creep stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cold shock proteins (CSPs) are ubiquitous nucleic acid-binding proteins involved in growth, development, and stress response across various organisms. While extensively studied in many species, their regulatory roles in sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) remain unclear. Objective: To identify and analyze CSP genes (PavCSPs) in sweet cherry genome, and explore the differential responses of PavCSP1 and PavCSP3 to low temperature and salt stress. Methods: Three methods were employed to identify and characterize CSP in sweet cherry genomes. To explore the potential functions and evolutionary relationships of sweet cherry CSP proteins, sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree incorporating genes from five species were conducted and constructed, respectively. To investigate the responses to abiotic stresses, cis-acting elements analysis and gene expression patterns to low-temperature and salt stress were examined. Moreover, transgenic yeasts overexpressing PavCSP1 or PavCSP3 were generated and their growth under stress conditions were observed. Results: In this study, three CSP genes (PavCSPs) were identified and comprehensively analyzed. The quantitative real-time PCR revealed diverse expression patterns, with PavCSP1-3 demonstrating a particular activity in the upper stem and all members were responsive to low-temperature and salt stress. Further investigation demonstrated that transgenic yeasts overexpressing PavCSP1 or PavCSP3 exhibited improved growth states following high-salt and low-temperature stress. Conclusion: These findings elucidated the responses of PavCSP1 and PavCSP3 to salt and low-temperature stresses, laying the groundwork for further functional studies of PavCSPs in response to abiotic stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inadequate ionic conductivity and freezing of the electrolyte are considered one of the main problems in low-temperature electrochemical energy storage. Mixing two or more solvents can reduce the overall freezing point of the solution and also increase the ionic conductivity at low temperatures. Therefore, using the co-solvent method to prepare electrolytes is crucial for preventing electrolyte freezing and improving ion conductivity. In this paper, ethylene glycol (EG) was used as a low-temperature co-solvent and an electrolyte with a freezing point lower than − 80 ℃ was obtained by the introduction of a volume fraction of 20% ethylene glycol in 4.5 mol L−1 LiCl aqueous solution. The resulting electrolyte exhibited high ionic conductivity (1.143 mS·cm−1) at − 60 ℃ and low viscosity (1.391 mPa·s) at 20 ℃. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and FITR results indicate that hydrogen bonds can be effectively formed between ethylene glycol and water molecules, which facilitate the electrolyte to operate at low temperatures. Additionally, the supercapacitor was able to operate better even at − 60 °C by introducing ethylene glycol into the electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sphagneticola trilobata, originally from the tropical regions of the Americas, has successfully invaded the subtropical regions of southern China and displays a tendency to spread towards colder northern regions. The accumulation of anthocyanins in stems under low temperature conditions exhibits strong cold tolerance, and therefore may be one mechanism supporting the northward spread of the species. However, the role and synthesis mechanism of anthocyanins in the stems of S. trilobata when confronted with low temperature stress are still unclear. Field experiments have shown that compared to in summer, the stems of S. trilobata significantly accumulated anthocyanins to cope with winter. Further short-term low-temperature treatments (0 °C) were conducted on red and green stems of S. trilobata, and the results showed that the red stems exhibited lower levels of reactive oxygen species, membrane damage, and chlorophyll fluorescence changes compared to the green stems. In an indoor low-temperature control experiment, it was observed that S. trilobata exhibited significant accumulation of callus in the periderm of its stems compared to S. calendulacea, which subsequently resulted in increased levels of sucrose, glucose, and fructose contents. Furthermore, there was a significantly induced higher levels of abscisic acid and cytokinin in S. trilobata stems under low temperatures. Under the joint regulation of these carbohydrates and hormones, the key structural genes associated with anthocyanins synthesis pathway in S. trilobata stems were more strongly induced compared to S. calendulacea. The upregulation of CHS, CHI, F3H, and DFR gene expression levels in S. trilobata was higher than that of native species, which directly leads to the accumulation of more anthocyanins in the epidermis of the stem of S. trilobata, thereby reducing the degree of oxidative stress and maintaining normal growth under low temperature. In summary, anthocyanins play an important light filtering role in the response of S. trilobatas stem to low temperature stress, which is one of the important mechanisms for its successful invasion into southern China. In the context of global climate change, we need to increase our vigilance against further invasion of S. trilobata into colder inland regions such as temperate regions. This research holds significant theoretical and practical implications for the prevention and control of S. trilobata invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY BARENTSZ (BTZ), a core component of the exon junction complex, regulates diverse developmental processes in animals. However, its evolutionary and developmental roles in plants remain elusive. Here, we revealed that three groups of paralogous BTZ genes existed in Poaceae, and Group 2 underwent loss‐of‐function mutations during evolution. They showed surprisingly low (~33%) sequence identities, implying functional divergence. Two genes retained in rice, OsBTZ1 and OsBTZ3, were edited; however, the resultant osbtz1 and osbtz3 mutants showed similar floral morphological and functional defects at a low frequency. When growing under low‐temperature conditions, developmental abnormalities became pronounced, and new floral variations were induced. In particular, stamen and carpel functionality was impaired in these rice btz mutants. The double‐gene mutant osbtz1/3 shared these floral defects with an increased frequency, which was further induced under low‐temperature conditions. OsBTZs interacted with OsMADS7 and OsMADS8, and the floral expressions of the OsTGA10 and MADS‐box genes were correlatively altered in these osbtz mutants and responded to low‐temperature treatment. These novel findings demonstrate that two highly diverged OsBTZs are required to maintain floral developmental stability under low‐temperature conditions, and play an integral role in male and female fertility, thus providing new insights into the indispensable roles of BTZ genes in plant development and adaptive evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastomer O-ring seals are used in many technical applications and their requirements are becoming increasingly challenging for high-pressure applications like hydrogen storage systems. We analyze the performance of such seals at low temperatures and highlight the essential effects of primary leakage. Linear viscoelastic material modeling is described and defined with the help of Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA), Time-Temperature Superposition Principle (TTSP), and the shift function of Williams-Landel-Ferry (WLF) by assuming thermo-rheological simple material behavior. Numerical calculations and experimental validation are done for strain-rate dependent uniaxial tensile tests, Temperature Retraction (TR), Compression Set (CS), and specific leakage tests with O-rings. Thanks to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) it is possible to identify the most significant influences on the sealing tightness. Thermal shrinkage and the increasingly limited recovery of elastomer O-rings are mainly responsible for primary leakage at low temperatures and can be enforced by time-temperature dependent stress relaxation and manufacturing tolerances. • The elastomer material 80FVMQ 567 was characterized via several material tests. • Linear viscoelastic material modeling was described in detail (WLF, TTSP, Prony) and implemented in the simulation. • Finite element simulations were validated with key O-Ring experiments at different temperatures. • The generation of primary leakage could be shown with numerical analyses and experiments. • The essential effects of primary leakage were identified and segregated with Finite Element Analyses and experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an inorganic halide perovskite (IHP), CsPbI2Br has generated enormous publicity due to its suitable optical bandgap (≈1.92 eV) and thermal stability. Unfortunately, the terrible phase stability of CsPbI2Br film will cause a phase change in a wet environment and decelerate light response, seriously hindering the progression of IHP photovoltaics. Herein, a synergistic postmodification strategy with CsBr and MABr to achieve high‐quality CsPbI2Br film at a low‐temperature (≈150 °C) and positive perovskite/carbon interface is presented. Adding a small amount of MABr can promote the crystallization of perovskite. The evaporated CsBr accumulates on the grain boundaries and surface of CsPbI2Br and forms Br‐rich perovskite, which provides the protection of CsPbI2Br and segregation of water vapor. The carbon‐based perovskite solar cell (C‐PeSC) with the modified CsPbI2Br harvests a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.04%. Notably, the unpackaged cell maintains 81% of its original PCE after being stored for 21 days in an air atmosphere with 25–35% humidity. Flexible devices are further manufactured, whose PCE drops to 90% of the initial value during 150 bending cycles. The flexible device also exhibits excellent blue photodetection performances. The maximum responsivity and detection reach 0.68 A W−1 and 8.91 × 1012 Jones, respectively. These findings provide broader avenues for flexible IHP in multifunctional devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra‐low temperature sintered ceramics, Li2(Mg1−xCax)2(MoO4)3 (x = 0.025–0.100), were synthesized using the solid‐phase method. XRD analysis revealed that adding Ca2+ increased the second‐phase CaMoO4 content. Particularly, Li2(Mg0.975Ca0.025)2(MoO4)3 ceramics exhibited excellent properties: εr = 9.31, Q × f = 55,400 GHz, and τf = −38.9 ppm/°C. Incorporating Ca2+ significantly improved the performance of ceramics. The microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Mg0.9Ca0.1)2(MoO4)3 ceramics sintered at 650°C showed enhancements: εr of 9.55, Q × f of 63,500 GHz, and τf of −10.8 ppm/°C. The rise in εr can be attributed to polarizability, while a higher packing fraction led to a larger Q × f value, and the reduced distortion of the [Li/Mg/CaO6] octahedra enhanced the τf value. Moreover, the increased of CaMoO4 also positively influenced the ceramic's properties. Furthermore, in accordance with the principles of complex chemical bonding, the elevation of ionicity, lattice energy, and bond energy of the Mo–O bond contributed to the enhancement of εr, Q × f, and τf, respectively. Raman spectroscopy showed a positive correlation between dielectric loss and full width at half maximum of the Raman peak. Good chemical compatibility between silver and Li2(Mg0.9Ca0.1)2(MoO4)3 ceramic was demonstrated through our co‐firing experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt‐free and spinel LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO) cathodes commonly suffer from undesirable solvent decomposition, serious transition‐metal dissolution, and unstable cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) layers, incurring rapid capacity decay at high voltages and low temperatures. Herein, these issues are well addressed by utilizing fluorinated solvents with a low coordination number and ethyl propionate with a low melting point. A Li2CO3/LiF‐rich heterostructured CEI layer, which possesses good electron blocking capability of LiF, fast Li+ transport kinetics of Li2CO3 and good mechanical stability, is generated by the synergistic decomposition of hybrid solvents. The robust, homogeneous, and well‐balanced CEI layers subsequently prevent catalyzed parasitic side reactions, prohibit transition‐metal dissolution, and ensure fast interfacial reaction kinetics crossover to the LNMO cathode, thus improving its cycling stability. Consequently, the LNMO cathode delivers a high‐capacity retention of 95.8% over 500 cycles at 25 °C and 97.5% after 180 cycles at −20 °C. This work provides an encouraging alternative to design the high‐voltage and low‐temperature electrolyte for pushing the ongoing research to stabilize Co‐free LNMO materials toward practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the low‐temperature toughness and resistance of the engineering plastic polyamide PA12, this study introduces novel PA12/MVQ@POE‐g‐MAH ternary composites using a two‐step process and dynamic curing. Analytical results indicate that incorporating MVQ@POE‐g‐MAH into the PA12 matrix markedly enhances its toughness and heat resistance. As the MVQ@POE‐g‐MAH content increases, the elongation at break of PA12 composites significantly expands from 52.83% to 204.69%, and the notch impact strength escalates from 8.69 to 74.34 kJ m−2. In addition, the brittleness temperature of PA12 decreases from −59.5 to −67.0 °C. Experimental findings confirm that POE‐g‐MAH is dispersed at the interface between MVQ and PA12, creating an encapsulated structure of MVQ@POE‐g‐MAH. This enhancement significantly broadens the potential applications of PA12 by improving its toughness, and resistance to both low and high temperatures, as well as impact endurance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperatures (< −20 °C) significantly diminish lithium‐ion battery performance due to freezing issues within commercial electrolytes and the high energy barrier for Li+ desolvation at the interface. Although high‐concentration electrolytes and localized high‐concentration electrolytes enhance Li+ desolvation kinetics featuring anion‐participated solvation structures, their high viscosity and propensity for Li salt precipitation render them unsuitable for low‐temperature environments. This study introduces an anion‐dominated conventional‐concentrations electrolyte (ACCE) created by incorporating Lithium difluorophosphate(LiPO2F2)into a 1 M Lithium bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)azanide(LiTFSI) Dimethyl carbonate(DMC)/Fluoroethylene carbonate(FEC)/Methyl acetate(MA) electrolyte solution. LiPO2F2, characterized by its poor solubility and strong binding with Li+, demonstrates a pronounced tendency to integrate into the primary solvation sheath of Li+. Moreover, the synergy between LiTFSI and LiPO2F2 establishes a dual anion configuration, unveiling a dual anion‐driven mechanism. This mechanism significantly diminishes the interaction between Li+ and solvent molecules, resulting in reduced desolvation energy under low temperatures. The ACCE exhibits high ionic conductivity of 1.3 mS cm−1 at −50 °C, enabling stable cycling of Li/NCM811 cells at −50 °C, and further allows 0.75 Ah graphite(Gr)/LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2(NCM811) batteries dischargeable at −40 °C. This study presents a practical application potential for poorly soluble lithium salts and provides a new avenue for designing electrolytes suitable for low‐temperature applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] People have been focusing on how to improve the specific capacity and cycling stability of lithium-sulfur batteries at room temperature, however, on some special occasions such as cold cities and aerospace fields, the operating temperature is low, which dramatically hinders the performance of batteries. Here, we report an iron carbide (Fe 3 C)/rGO composite as electrode host, the Fe 3 C nanoparticles in the composite have strong adsorption and high catalytic ability for polysulfide. The rGO makes the distribution of Fe 3 C nanoparticles more disperse, and this specific structure makes the deposition of Li 2 S more uniform. Therefore, it realizes the rapid transformation and high performance of lithium-sulfur batteries at both room and low temperatures. At room temperature, after 100 cycles at 1C current density, the reversible specific capacity of the battery can be stabilized at 889 ± 7.1 mAh/g. Even at −40 °C, in the first cycle battery still emits 542.9 ± 3.7 mAh/g specific capacity. This broadens the operating temperature for lithium-sulfur batteries and also provides a new idea for the selection of host materials for sulfur in low-temperature lithium-sulfur batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) present great application potential in low‐temperature energy storage scenarios due to their unique dual‐ion working mechanism. However, at low temperatures, the insufficient electrochemical oxidation stability of electrolytes and depressed interfacial compatibility impair the DIB performance. Here, we design a variant‐localized high‐concentration solvation structure for universal low‐temperature electrolytes (ν‐LHCE) without the phase separation via introducing an extremely weak‐solvating solvent with low energy levels. The unique solvation structure gives the ν‐LHCE enhanced electrochemical oxidation stability. Meanwhile, the extremely weak‐solvating solvent can competitively participate in the Li+‐solvated coordination, which improves the Li+ transfer kinetics and boosts the formation of robust interphases. Thus, the ν‐LHCE electrolyte not only has a good high‐voltage stability of >5.5 V and proper Li+ transference number of 0.51 but also shows high ionic conductivities of 1 mS/cm at low temperatures. Consequently, the ν‐LHCE electrolyte enables different types of batteries to achieve excellent long‐term cycling stability and good rate capability at both room and low temperatures. Especially, the capacity retentions of the DIB are 77.7 % and 51.6 %, at −40 °C and −60 °C, respectively, indicating great potential for low‐temperature energy storage applications, such as polar exploration, emergency communication equipment, and energy storage station in cold regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the acceleration of industrialization and the increasing prominence of environmental pollution problems, the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the atmosphere has become a global concern. These emissions are not only hazardous to human health, but also one of the main factors leading to acid rain, photochemical smog and global climate change. Therefore, the development and implementation of efficient denitrification technologies are an important issue for environmental protection. The present review focuses on the research progress of the denitrification technology in the recent years, including the traditional denitrification methods and common technologies. At the same time, the advantages, limitations and application prospects of each method are analyzed. The mechanisms, influencing factors, advantages and disadvantages of the denitrification catalysts are also discussed. In addition, the future research trends and potential challenges of denitrification technology are discussed. It is expected that this review will provide useful references for promoting the development and application of denitrification technology, which may help researchers to choose high‐performance and cost‐effective methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) shows great promise as an ectoparasitoid for controlling various coleopteran pests in warehouses. However, for a large‐scale release, it is crucial to establish an ample supply of A. calandrae while carefully maintaining their quality and effectiveness. Appropriate cold storage techniques are the key to achieving these goals. Previous studies on cold storage have focused on specific developmental stages and explored cold storage conditions that can be applied only to those stages. Herein, we examined the development, survival and reproductive capacity of A. calandrae at different temperatures (13, 16, and 19 °C) and storage durations (30, 60, and 90 d) and evaluated the fitness of the offspring. A. calandrae completed its egg‐to‐larva development and pupated at 16 °C, but its development was arrested at an early pupal stage. Even after 90 d of cold storage at 16 °C, the survival rate of A. calandrae remained high at 77%, with no significant impact on reproductive capacity. Furthermore, cold storage showed no negative effect on the F1 generation. In contrast, eggs stored at 13 °C failed to hatch, whereas those stored at 19 °C developed. Adults emerged after > 60 d. This indicates that storage at 19 °C is only suitable for short durations. Our findings highlight the developmental pattern of A. calandrae at 16 °C, indicating that the parasitic wasp can be stored for a long time at this temperature across all stages of development before pupation, substantially facilitating its mass reproduction and industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the wine industry carries out fermentations at low temperatures because this oenological practice clearly improves the aromatic complexity of the final wines. In addition, nitrogen content of the must also influences the quality of the wine. In this study, we carried out a phenotypic and fermentative analysis of two industrial wine Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (P5 and P24) at 15 and 28 °C and three nitrogen concentrations (60, 140 and 300 mg N/L) in synthetic must. Our results show that both parameters, temperature and nitrogen, are interrelated and clearly determine the competitiveness of the wine strains and their ability to adapt at low temperatures. The best adapted strain at low temperatures decreased its competitiveness at lower nitrogen concentrations. In addition, our results show that it is not only the quantity of nitrogen transported that is important but also the quality of the nitrogen source used for wine yeast adaptation at low temperatures. The presence of some amino acids, such as arginine, branched chain amino acids, and some aromatic amino acids can improve the growth and fermentation activity of wine yeasts at low temperatures. These results allow us to better understand the basis of wine yeast adaptation to fermentation conditions, providing important information for winemakers to help them select the most appropriate yeast strain, thus reducing the economic costs associated with long and sluggish fermentations. The correlation between some amino acids and better yeast fermentation performance could be used in the future to design inactive dry yeast enriched in some of these amino acids, which could be added as a nutritional supplement during low temperature fermentations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cold storage system is useful for maintaining the quality of hardy kiwifruit. However, extended cold storage periods inevitably result in cold stress, leading to lower fruit marketability; the severity of chilling injury depends on fruit types and cultivars. In this study, the impact of cold storage conditions on the physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of two phenotypically different hardy kiwifruit cultivars—'Cheongsan' (large type) and 'Daebo' (small type)—stored at low (L; 3 °C, relative humidity [RH]; 85–90%) and moderate-low (ML; 5 °C, RH; 85–90%) temperatures was determined. Significant differences in fruit firmness and titratable acidity between treatments L and ML were observed in both cultivars during the experimental storage period. Meanwhile, the browning and pitting rates of the 'Cheongsan' fruits in treatment L increased for 8 weeks compared with those of the 'Daebo' fruits in treatments L and ML; nonetheless, fruit decay was observed in the 'Daebo' fruits in treatment ML after 6 weeks. The total chlorophyll, carotenoid, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid concentrations as well as the antioxidant activities of both the cultivars significantly differed between treatments L and ML. After 2 weeks of storage, the 'Cheongsan' fruits in treatment L had lower antioxidant activities and ascorbic acid content than those in treatment ML. These results demonstrate that the quality attributes and antioxidant activity of hardy kiwifruit are influenced by the low-temperature storage conditions and the specific kiwifruit cultivars. Our findings suggest that optimal cold storage conditions, specific to each hardy kiwifruit cultivar, promise to maintain fruit quality, including their health-promoting compounds, during long-term storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract At present, the NH3-SCR catalyst used in smelting flue gas treatment and denitrification has shortcomings such as narrow operating temperature window, low catalytic activity at low temperature (120 °C), and easy poisoning, which limits its wide application. Therefore, the development of catalysts with low temperature efficiency, good anti-toxicity performance and strong stability has become the focus of current research. Carbon-based catalysts have attracted much attention due to their wide range of sources, strong adsorption performance, and good catalytic activity, and have broad prospects in denitrification. Based on the latest research progress of carbon-based low-temperature NH3-SCR catalysts, the factors influencing the denitrification activity of catalysts were introduced from the aspects of carbon-based catalyst materials, addition of active components, acid or base modification, resistance to SO2 and H2O poisoning, and the NH3-SCR reaction mechanism of carbon-based catalysts is analyzed, and the direction of carbon-based catalysts with excellent denitrification performance and anti-poisoning performance of low-temperature NH3-SCR is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperatures during germination inhibit seed growth, lead to small and weak seedlings, and significantly reduce the wheat yield. Alleviating the adverse effects of low temperature on wheat seed germination is highly important for achieving high and stable wheat yields. In this study, Tongmai 6 (insensitive) and Zhengmai 113 (sensitive), which have different low-temperature sensitivities during germination were treated with low temperature during germination. The transcriptome, metabolome and physiological data revealed that low temperature decreased the germination rate, downregulated the expression of a large number of genes involved in regulating glycometabolism, and inhibited carbon, nitrogen (especially amino acids) and energy metabolism in the seeds. Arginine content increased at low temperature, and its increase in the low-temperature-tolerant variety was significantly greater than that in the sensitive variety. Arginine priming experiment showed that treatment with an appropriate concentration of arginine improved the seed germination rate. The conversion of starch to soluble sugar significantly increased under exogenous arginine conditions, the content of key metabolites in energy metabolism increased, and the utilization of ATP in the seeds increased. Taken together, arginine priming increased seed germination at low temperature by relieving inhibition of seed carbon and nitrogen metabolism and improving seed energy metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: CsDGAT1A and CsDGAT2D play a positive regulatory role in cucumber's response to low-temperature stress and positively regulate the synthesis of triacylglycerol (TAG). Triacylglycerol (TAG), a highly abundant and significant organic compound in plants, plays crucial roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. The final acetylation step of TAG synthesis is catalyzed by diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs). However, the involvement of DGATs in cucumber's low-temperature stress response remains unexplored. This study focused on two DGAT genes, CsDGAT1A and CsDGAT2D, investigating their function in enhancing cucumber’s low-temperature stress tolerance. Our results revealed that both proteins were the members of the diacylglycerol acyltransferase family and were predominantly localized in the endoplasmic reticulum. Functional analysis demonstrated that transient silencing of CsDGAT1A and CsDGAT2D significantly compromised cucumber’s low-temperature stress tolerance, whereas transient overexpression enhanced it. Furthermore, the TAG content quantification indicated that CsDGAT1A and CsDGAT2D promoted TAG accumulation. In conclusion, this study elucidates the lipid metabolism mechanism in cucumber’s low-temperature stress response and offers valuable insights for the cultivation of cold-tolerant cucumber plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inexpensive mercury lamps were adopted to sterilize refrigerator compartments. • Both UVC irradiance and inactivation of E. coli were measured. • Impacts of low temperature and humidity on the UVC output were examined. • CFD modeling was used to aid positioning of multiple UVC lamps. Household refrigerator compartments and cold chain systems are highly susceptible to microbial contamination. To minimize the surface-contact disease transmission, low-temperature surfaces must be inactivated. Currently, there is no environmentally friendly and convenient means for surface sterilization at low temperatures. This investigation proposed the use of low-pressure mercury lamps to sterilize the bottom surface of a refrigerator. The mercury lamps emitted UVC irradiation and were mounted horizontally on the sidewalls of the refrigerator compartment to inactivate Escherichia coli (E. coli) on the bottom surface. The measured irradiances and E. coli inactivation efficiencies were used to validate the surface-to-surface (S2S) model. The impacts of the refrigeration temperature (20 °C, 4 °C, and −18 °C, respectively) on the UVC output and E. coli sterilization efficiency were evaluated. And so did for the impacts of the relative humidity (ranging from 45 % to 85 % at 4 °C). The required time for operation of the UVC lamps to reach a 3-log reduction in E. coli was calculated for different lamp placements. The results revealed that the UVC emission of low-pressure mercury lamps decreases remarkably with the temperature. The necessary UVC irradiation dose to achieve the same inactivation efficiency increases as the temperature decreases. To extend the operating life of UVC lamps, the installed lamps should make the irradiance distribution on the target surface as uniform as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-temperature stress is one of the factors affecting the growth and development of peanuts. Currently, biochemical detection technologies for crop freeze damage are well established. In the context of rapid development in optical sensing technology and smart agriculture, non-destructive crop freeze damage detection based on such technologies has gained increasing attention. The accurate detection, early warning, and targeted control of crop cold damage are particularly important. In this study, 70 peanut germplasm resources were collected and used for the research objectives. Indoor low-temperature seedling identification was conducted at 25 °C (the control group) and 5 °C (low-temperature stress group) for 7 days. Photosynthetic fluorescence values in leaves, as well as 13 indicators (Fo, Fm, Fv, Fv/Fm, Fv'/Fm', ΦPSII, NPQ, qP, Rfd, Pn, Gs, Ci, and Tr), were analyzed for their responses to low-temperature stress. The results showed that under low-temperature stress, the Pn and Ci of peanut seedlings exhibited an ascending trend, while Tr and other indicators showed a decreasing trend compared to the control group. Based on the relative coefficients of resistance to low temperature for each individual indicator, a comprehensive non-destructive evaluation of cold resistance was conducted using methods such as principal component analysis, cluster analysis, and stepwise regression. Through principal component analysis, the 13 individual physiological indicators were transformed into 3 comprehensive indicators. The 70 peanut varieties were divided into 4 categories based on their resistance to low temperature: sensitive materials, moderately sensitive materials, moderately cold-tolerant materials, and cold-tolerant materials. Additionally, a mathematical model for evaluating cold resistance in peanuts was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot water treatment (HWT) is a versatile technique for synthesizing metal oxide nanostructures (MONSTRs) by immersing metal substrates in hot water, typically in glass beakers. The proximity of substrates to the heat source during HWT can influence the temperature of the substrate and subsequently impact MONSTR growth. In our study, zinc (Zn) substrates underwent HWT at the base of a glass beaker in contact with a hot plate and at four different vertical distances from the base. While the set temperature of deionized (DI) water was 75.0 °C, the substrate locations exhibited variations, notably with the base reaching 95.0 °C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy showed stoichiometric and crystalline zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods. ZnO rods on the base, exposed to higher temperatures, displayed greater growth in length and diameter, and higher crystallinity. Nanorods with increasing vertical distances from the base exhibited a logarithmic decrease in length despite identical temperatures, whereas their diameters remained constant. We attribute these findings to crucial HWT growth mechanisms like surface diffusion and "plugging", influenced by temperature and water flow within the beaker. Our results provide insights for optimizing synthesis parameters to effectively control MONSTR growth through HWT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to reduce the risk of early freezing damage to cement-based materials in winter construction, lime powder was used to improve the properties of the Portland cement–sulphoaluminate cement (PC–CSA) composite system at low temperatures. In this study, the effects of lime powder dosage on the properties of a PC–CSA blended system with two proportions (PC:CSA = 9:1 and 7:3) at −10 °C were investigated, and the mechanisms of improvement were revealed. The results showed that the compressive strength of the PC–CSA composite system was effectively improved, and the setting time was shortened by the addition of lime powder. Lime powder could effectively act as an early heating source in the PC–CSA composite system, as the maximum temperature of samples exposed to sub-zero temperatures was increased and the time before dropping to 0 °C was prolonged by the addition of lime powder. The extra CH generated by the hydration of lime powder provided an added hydration path for C4A3 S ¯ , which accelerated the formation of AFt at each stage. Frozen water as well as the early frost damage were effectively decreased by lime powder because of the faster consumption of free water at an early stage. The modification of the hydration products also contributed to the denseness of the microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium oxide, CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized through various methods to achieve the desired physicochemical properties. However, high temperatures, pressure and long reaction time were involved. In this study, ultra-small CeO2 NPs were successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method but under a favourably low temperature (70 ℃) for 4 hours using cerium nitrate hexahydrate, Ce(NO3)3 • 6 H2O and sodium hydroxide, NaOH as the precursors while deionized water was used as the solvent. The synthesized ultra-small CeO2 NPs were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), ultraviolet visible (UV-Vis) spectrometer, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method. The synthesized ultra-small CeO2 NPs were determined to have an average particle size of 3.54 nm, crystallite size of 3.05 nm and a high specific surface area of 185 m2 g-1. UV-Vis spectrum also showed absorption peak at 310 nm and FTIR spectrum intense peak at 447.20 cm-1 indicating the presence of CeO2 NPs. FTIR, EDX and XRD diffraction pattern have proved that the synthesized CeO2 NPs is of high purity. This study has successfully synthesized ultra-small CeO2 NPs with optimal conditions of hydrothermal treatment at 70℃ for 4 hours and a percent yield of ~99%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current article presents an exploration of the solid–liquid phase diagram for a binary system comprising n-alkanes with an odd number of carbon atoms, specifically n-nonane (n-C9) and n-undecane (n-C11). This binary system exhibits promising characteristics for application as a phase change material (PCM) in low-temperature thermal energy storage (TES), due to the fusion temperatures of the individual components, thereby motivating an in-depth investigation of the solid–liquid phase diagram of their mixtures. The n-nonane (n-C9) + n-undecane (n-C11) solid–liquid phase equilibrium study herein reported includes the construction of the phase diagram using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) data, complemented with Hot–Stage Microscopy (HSM) and low-temperature Raman Spectroscopy results. From the DSC analysis, both the temperature and the enthalpy of solid–solid and solid–liquid transitions were obtained. The binary system n-C9 + n-C11 has evidenced a congruent melting solid solution at low temperatures. In particular, the blend with a molar composition xundecane = 0.10 shows to be a congruent melting solid solution with a melting point at 215.84 K and an enthalpy of fusion of 13.6 kJ·mol–1. For this reason, this system has confirmed the initial signs to be a candidate with good potential to be applied as a PCM in low-temperature TES applications. This work aims not only to contribute to gather information on the solid–liquid phase equilibrium on the system n-C9 + n-C11, which presently are not available in the literature, but especially to obtain essential and practical information on the possibility to use this system as PCM at low temperatures. The solid–liquid phase diagram of the system n-C9 + n-C11 is being published for the first time, as far as the authors are aware. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive (Olea europaea L.), an economically important oil-producing crop, is sensitive to low temperature, which severely limits its productivity and geographical distribution. However, the underlying mechanism of cold tolerance in olive remains elusive. In this study, a chilling experiment (4 °C) on the living saplings of two olive cultivars revealed that O. europaea cv. Arbequina showed stronger cold tolerance with greater photosynthetic activity compared with O. europaea cv. Leccino. Transcriptome analyses revealed that early light-inducible protein 1 (ELIP1), the main regulator for chlorophyll synthesis, is dramatically induced to protect the photosynthesis at low temperatures. Furthermore, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, yeast one-hybrid and luciferase assays demonstrated that transcription factor bHLH66 serves as an important regulator of ELIP1 transcription by binding to the G-box motif in the promoter. Taken together, our research revealed a novel transcriptional module consisting of bHLH66-ELIP1 in the adaptation of olive trees to cold stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mn/TiO2 catalysts with varying solid contents were innovatively prepared by the sol–gel method and were used for selective catalytic reduction of NO at low temperatures using NH3 (NH3-SCR) as the reducing agent. Surprisingly, it was found that as the solid content of the sol increased, the catalytic activity of the developed Mn/TiO2 catalyst gradually increased, showing excellent catalytic performance. Notably, the Mn/TiO2 (50%) catalyst demonstrates outstanding denitration performance, achieving a 96% NO conversion rate at 100 °C under a volume hourly space velocity (VHSV) of 24,000 h−1, while maintaining high N2 selectivity and stability. It was discovered that as the solid content increased, the catalyst's specific surface area (SSA), surface Mn4+ concentration, chemisorbed oxygen, chemisorption of NH3, and catalytic reducibility all improved, thereby enhancing the catalytic efficiency of NH3-SCR in degrading NO. Moreover, NH3 at the Lewis acidic sites and NH4+ at the Bronsted acidic sites of the catalyst were capable of reacting with NO. Conversely, NO and NO2 adsorbed on the catalyst, along with bidentate and monodentate nitrates, were unable to react with NH3 at low temperatures. Consequently, the developed catalyst's low-temperature catalytic reaction mechanism aligns with the E-R mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a proprietary powder‐fed 3D printer is employed to fabricate impellers from metal‐polymer mixtures via low‐temperature extrusion, simplifying the traditional complex metal molding process. By adjusting the extrusion speed and temperature, various quality impeller blanks are produced, identifying optimal printing conditions. The best results are achieved with a feed temperature of 170 °C, extrusion speed of 6 r min−1, printing platform temperature of 50 °C, and nozzle temperature of 175 °C, achieving a surface roughness of Ra = 9.973 μm. Post‐processing densification of the stainless steel wheels reach 97.23%, with a tensile strength of 255 MPa, elongation at break of 49%, and hardness of 60 HRB. These parameters meet the physical and mechanical standards required for general metal parts, demonstrating potential for precision metal processing in sectors such as aircraft engines, gas turbines, and high‐performance pumps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-contact temperature sensors utilising the fluorescence intensity ratio and the unique up-conversion (UC) luminescence of rare-earth ions have numerous benefits; however, their operational temperature range has remained limited. In this study, NaLuF4:Yb3+/Ho3+ samples were prepared by the hydrothermal method. The samples exhibited exceptional UC luminescence properties at low temperatures. The intensity of the green emission (with peak wavelengths of 540 and 546 nm) gradually decreased with increasing temperature, and the green emissions showed a unique change at low temperatures. In addition, we studied the dependence of the UC luminescence intensity on the excitation power and the variation in the decay lifetime with temperature. The experiments revealed excellent luminous performance and significantly enhanced sensitivity at low temperatures; the maximum absolute sensitivity Sa and relative sensitivity Sr of the 540 and 546 nm thermally coupled energy levels were 1.02% and 0.55% K−1, respectively. The potential temperature sensing properties of Yb3+/Ho3+-co-doped NaLuF4 makes it suitable for temperature sensing applications at temperatures as low as 30 K. This study offers a novel approach for the advancement of temperature sensing technology at low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid global climate change featuring erratic temperature fluctuations, insects adapt via seasonal polyphenism, essential for population sustainability and reproductive success. Cacopsylla chinensis, influenced by environment variations, displays a distinct summer form and winter form distinguished by significant morphological variations. Previous studies have highlighted the role of temperature receptor CcTPRM in orchestrating the transition in response to 10 °C temperature. Nevertheless, the contribution of the transcription factor FoxO in this process has remained ambiguous. Here, we aimed to explore the correlation between C. chinensis FoxO (CcFoxO) and cold stress responses, while identifying potential energetic substances for monitoring physiological shifts during this transition from summer to winter form under cold stress by using RNAi. Initially, CcFoxO emerges as responsive to low temperatures (10 °C) and is regulated by CcTRPM. Subsequent investigations reveal that CcFoxO facilitates the accumulation of triglycerides and glycogen, thereby influencing the transition from summer form to winter form by affecting cuticle pigment content, cuticle chitin levels, and cuticle thickness. Thus, the knockdown of CcFoxO led to high mortality and failed transition. Overall, our findings demonstrate that CcFoxO governs seasonal polyphenism by regulating energy storage. These insights not only enhance our comprehension of FoxO functionality but also offer avenues for environmentally friendly management strategies for C. chinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel hydroxide is a potentially cheap non-precious metal catalytic material for alkaline hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs). Herein, a nickel form (NF)-based nitrogen-modified nickel hydroxide (N-Ni(OH)2/NF) with interlaced two-dimensional (2D) nanosheet structures was synthesized by a simple one-step ammonia vapor-phase hydrothermal method for efficient electrocatalytic HERs. The effect of the reaction temperature of the catalyst preparation on the HERs' performance was studied in detail. The HER activity of N-Ni(OH)2/NF is enhanced by the large specific surface area, mass transfer and electron conductivity provided by a unique and suitable 2D nanostructure and nitrogen doping. The obtained N-Ni(OH)2/NF not only shows a superior HERs performance, but also exhibits good stability during long-term electrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Anthocyanins are natural pigments and dietary antioxidants that play multiple biological roles in plants and are important in animal and human nutrition. Low temperature (LT) promotes anthocyanin biosynthesis in many species including blood orange. A retrotransposon in the promoter of Ruby1, which encodes an R2R3 MYB transcription factor, controls cold‐induced anthocyanin accumulation in blood orange flesh. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we characterized two LT‐induced ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTORS (CsERF054 and CsERF061). Both CsERF054 and CsERF061 can activate the expression of CsRuby1 by directly binding to a DRE/CRT cis‐element within the retrotransposon in the promoter of CsRuby1, thereby positively regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis. Further investigation indicated that CsERF061 also forms a protein complex with CsRuby1 to co‐activate the expression of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes, providing a dual mechanism for the upregulation of the anthocyanin pathway. These results provide insights into how LT mediates anthocyanin biosynthesis and increase the understanding of the regulatory network of anthocyanin biosynthesis in blood orange. Significance Statement: Anthocyanins are natural pigments and dietary antioxidants that play multiple biological roles in plants and are important in human nutrition. Low temperature is a necessary condition for anthocyanin accumulation in blood orange and the retrotransposon promoter of Ruby1 controls this process. Our results provide upstream insights into its cold response and enrich the understanding of the regulatory network of anthocyanin biosynthesis in blood orange. These results are of fundamental importance and great practical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-assembly strategy was proposed to fabricate polyaniline encapsulated hollow ZnS-SnS 2 heterojunction confined on MXene nanosheets, which demonstrates reversible capacity stabilized at 362.5 mAh/g for 250 cycles at −20 °C. [Display omitted] • Hollow bimetallic sulfides with heterojunction confined on MXene nanosheets are successfully synthesized. • The specific capacity of H-ZSSMP can reach 520.3 mAh/g after 1000 cycles at 2 A/g. • The reversible capacity of H-ZSSMP can stabilize at 362.5 mAh/g for 250 cycles at −20 °C. • Theory calculation confirm heterogeneous interface speeds up the transfer of ions through the interfacal regulation effect of MXene on H-ZSS. Metal sulfides exhibit obvious volume expansion due to the inherent poor conductivity and large temperature fluctuations, leading to reduced storage capacity. Herein, an electrostatic self-assembly strategy was proposed to fabricate a three-dimensional (3D) polyaniline (PANI) encapsulated hollow ZnS-SnS 2 (H-ZSS) heterojunction confined on Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene nanosheets (H-ZnS-SnS 2 @MXene@PANI, denoted as H-ZSSMP), which exhibits remarkable reversible capacity and cyclic stability (520.3 mAh/g at 2 A/g after 1000 cycles) at room temperature. Additionally, specific capacity can stabilized at 362.5 mAh/g for 250 cycles at −20 °C. A full cell with the configuration of H-ZSSMP//lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO 4) can retain a satisfactory reversible capacity of 424.7 mAh/g after 100 cycles at 0.1 C. Theory calculations confirm heterogeneous interface can accelerate the transfer of ions through the interfacial regulation effect of MXene on H-ZSS. Our work provides a simple strategy to improve the capacity and stability of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as well as the new applications of MXene and bimetallic sulfides as anode materials, which will facilitate the development of MXene based composites for energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the experimental research on high-efficiency ortho-para (O-P) hydrogen conversion is carried out. By designing and building a low-temperature O-P hydrogen conversion experimental device, the low-temperature catalytic conversion and pressure drop flow characteristics are studied. The experimental data show that under the same conditions, the catalytic performance of iron hydroxide is the best among the three iron-based catalysts, and the hydrogen flow rate is an important factor affecting the conversion efficiency. The pressure drop formula for the porous region filled with catalyst suitable for the experimental device is proposed. This study has reference significance for the design of high-efficiency O-P hydrogen converter and the optimization design of hydrogen liquefaction process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystal structure of lithium xanthinate hydrate was studied by single crystal X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy on cooling to 100 K and under compression to 5.3 GPa. A phase transition at ∼4 GPa is observed. No phase transitions occur on cooling. Anisotropy of lattice strain and changes in intermolecular interactions are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incorporating silver wires into propellant has emerged as a highly effective strategy for enhancing propellant burning rates, a technique extensively deployed in the construction of numerous fielded sounding rockets and tactical missiles. Our research, employing a multi-faceted approach encompassing thermogravimetric-differential scanning calorimetry measurements (TG-DSC), combustion diagnoses, burning rate tests, and meticulous collection of condensed combustion products, sought to elucidate how variations in silver wire quantity and winding configuration impact the combustion properties of propellants. Our findings underscore the remarkable efficacy of double tightly twisted silver wire in significantly boosting propellant burning rates under ambient conditions. Moreover, at lower temperatures, the reduced gap between the propellant and silver wire further magnifies the influence of silver wire on burning rates. However, it is noteworthy that the relationship between burning speed and combustion efficiency is not deterministic. While a smaller cone angle of the burning surface contributes to heightened burning rates, it concurrently exacerbates the polymerization effect of vapor phase aluminum particles, consequently diminishing propellant combustion efficiency. Conversely, propellants configured with sparsely twinned silver wires exhibit notable enhancements in combustion efficiency, despite a less pronounced impact on the burning rate attributed to the larger cone angle of the burning surface. Remarkably, these trends persist at lower temperatures. Based on the principle of heat transfer balance, a theoretical model for the combustion of propellants with wire inserts is developed. The reliability of this theoretical model is validated through a comparison of calculated values with experimental data. Our research outcomes carry significant implications for guiding the application and advancement of the silver wire method in solid propellants for solid rocket motors, offering valuable insights to inform future research and development endeavors in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold and excess moisture pose a serious threat to soybean production especially during seed germination in short-season environments. In this study, the effects of low temperature and excess moisture stress on seed germination were investigated in 187 soybean accessions originating from 18 countries. The experiment used a combination of three temperature conditions (i.e., 20 °C/14 °C, 14 °C/10 °C, and 10 °C/10 °C day/night) and two moisture levels (i.e., normal and excess). The seed germinability traits measured included germination rate (GR), germination index, germination time, germination uniformity, and coefficient of velocity of germination. Overall, GR was lowest in the 20 °C/14 °C + excess moisture and germination time was longest in the 10 °C/10 °C + excess moisture. When compared with 20 °C/14 °C + normal moisture treatment, GR at 10 °C/10 °C + excess moisture decreased by 38%; germination time increased by 20 days; seed viability decreased by 83%; germination uniformity decreased by 70%; germination speed decreased by 73%. Differences in GR, germination index, and germination velocity under different treatments were affected by temperature, moisture, and their interaction. Variation in germination time uniformity was determined by temperature, with no significant effects of moisture conditions and the interaction of temperature and moisture. It was shown that the temperature–excess moisture interaction led to a sharp decrease in seed germination. Two genotypes including PI 603147 and PI 507702 were identified with a GR over 90% at 10 °C/10 °C + excess moisture. This study generated new knowledge and data to further the understanding of genetic resistance to cold and excess moisture stress in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunus mume Siebold & Zucc (mei) is a horticulturally important fruit tree that undergoes anthesis in winter. Therefore, its flowering process is challenged by low-temperatures conditions. The transcription factor (TF) MYB21 is pivotal in regulating the flowering process, and particularly functions in petal expansion and filament elongation. However, the regulatory mechanism of PmMYB21 in mei remains unknown. To breed early-flowering cultivars, a deeper understanding of PmMYB21-regulated genes is essential. We employed DNA affinity purification sequencing (Dap-seq) to identify downstream genes bound by PmMYB21. The results revealed the promoter region is the primary binding region of PmMYB21, and the AGTTAGGTARR motif (motif1) is the predominant binding sequence type. Our analysis identified 8533 genes that are potentially bound by PmMYB21 with the motif1 sequence type, within the promoter region. These genes are involved in biological processes critical to flowering. Further refinement of candidate genes was achieved through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), which identified the co-expressed genes of PmMYB21 during flowering activity. Integrating Dap-seq and WGCNA data, we narrowed down the candidate gene list to 54, with a focus on 4 MADS-box genes and 2 hormone signaling genes that are crucial to the flowering process under low-temperature conditions. This study offers valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings of PmMYB21's role in the low-temperature flowering regulation of mei, paving the way for the development of new cultivars adapted to early blooming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the impact of low-temperature (LT) stress during the jointing stage on three most representative wheat varieties in the Huang-Huai-Hai region: "Shannong 38" (a robust winter wheat variety), "Jimai 22" (a semi-winter wheat variety), and "Zhenmai 12" (a weak winter wheat variety). The objective was to explain the sensitivity and change thresholds of various physiological and yield indicators of three winter wheat varieties to low temperatures during the jointing stage and to construct an index for the grading of LT disasters during the jointing stage using principal component analysis. Controlled environment experiments were conducted using an artificial climate chamber during the jointing stage of winter wheat. Five daily minimum temperature treatments were applied, namely (T1, −6 °C); (T2, −3 °C); (T3, 0 °C); (T4, 3 °C); (T5, 6 °C); and control (CK, 8 °C). The duration of treatments was divided into three levels: (D1: 2 days), (D2: 4 days), and (D3: 6 days). It was found that the photosynthetic parameters and chlorophyll content showed a decreasing trend with the increase in the degree of LT stress. The activities of protective enzymes and endogenous hormones increased during the early stages of LT stress or at relatively high temperatures. However, they decreased significantly with an increase in LT stress. Among the varieties, "Zhenmai 12" exhibited a yield reduction rate exceeding 10% under 3 °C LT stress for more than 4 days and a yield reduction rate exceeding 20% under 0 °C LT stress for more than 6 days. "Jimai 22" showed a yield reduction rate exceeding 10% under 3 °C LT stress lasting more than 2 days, and a yield reduction rate exceeding 20% under −3 °C LT stress lasting more than 4 days. "Shannong 38" experienced a yield reduction rate exceeding 10% under 0 °C LT stress lasting more than 4 days and a yield reduction rate exceeding 20% under −6 °C LT stress lasting more than 6 days. Principal component analysis (PCA) conducted on all trait indicators of the three winter wheat varieties revealed that "Zhenmai 12" experienced mild LT stress at 6 °C for 2 days, moderate LT stress at 0 °C for 6 days, and severe LT stress at −3 °C for 6 days. "Jimai 22" experienced mild LT stress under 6 °C for 6 days, moderate LT stress under 0 °C for 4 days, and severe LT stress under −6 °C for 2 days. "Shannong 38" experienced mild LT stress under 3 °C for 4 days, moderate LT stress under 0 °C for 4 days, and severe LT stress under −6 °C for 6 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The catalytic exchange of hydrogen isotopes is a promising technology for purifying recycled water in nuclear power stations. However, it remains a challenge for achieving high catalytic efficiency and stability at low temperatures. In this work, we propose a facile strategy to enhance the catalyst efficiency by introducing LiF in the Pt/Ti3AlC2 (Pt−5‐LiF/Ti3AlC2). The incorporation of LiF significantly achieves high catalytic exchange efficiency of 92 % and a turnover frequency of 28.1 h−1, which are more than twice that of Pt/Ti3AlC2. The structure‐activity relationship analysis reveals that the introduction of LiF substantially enhanced the hydrogen adsorption capacity of the catalyst and further improved the performance of the catalysts. Moreover, this LiF‐added strategy is also applicable to other Pt‐based catalysts such as Pt/Al2O3 and Pt/activated carbon. This work provides a novel catalyst design strategy for high‐efficiency catalytic exchange of hydrogen isotopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review critically evaluates the algal–bacterial consortium (ABC) as a promising technology for wastewater treatment, carbon capture and storage, while also assessing its challenges and opportunities. The ABC system, characterized by the coupling of algae and bacteria, not only removes pollutants and reclaims resources but also helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This system harnesses algal photosynthesis and bacterial degradation of organic matters to establish a carbon cycle, enhancing biomass production and pollutant removal. Despite its promise, the ABC process is subject to several hurdles, including sensitivity to low temperatures, reliance on artificial illumination, and the potential for algal biomass contamination by toxic substances. To capitalize on its full potential, continued research and technological advancements are imperative. Future investigations should focus on optimizing the system's operational efficiency, developing precise process models, exploring avenues for resource recovery, and broadening the scope of its applications. By surmounting these challenges, the ABC system has the capacity to make a significant impact on sustainable wastewater management and carbon fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the appropriate storage temperature of'Carola' rose cut flowers. The changes of anthocyanin contents, soluble protein contents, total phenolic contents, total flavonoid contents, respiratory intensity, ethylene release rates, malondialdehyde contents and relative conductivity of cut flowers stored at 0 °C, 4 °C, and 8 °C were investigated and compared, and the largest stems, rot indices, bottle lives and other sensory indices were determined to analyze the differences of fresh-keeping effects under different temperature conditions. The results showed that compared with storage at 0 °C and 8 °C, the 4 °C storage could inhibit water loss caused by high temperature and cold damage caused by low temperature to a certain extent, reduce the decay indices, and delay the decrease of anthocyanin, soluble protein, total phenol and total flavonoid contents. The respiratory intensity of cut flowers stored at 0 °C, 4 °C and 8 °C for 20 days were 587.66, 508.42, 575.49 mg⋅kg-1⋅h-1, respectively, and the respiratory intensity stored at 0 °C and 8 °C were 1.15 and 1.13% times higher than that of 4 °C . At the same time, the increase of malondialdehyde contents and relative conductivity could be better inhibited at 4 °C . The scoring results determined by SPSS showed that the comprehensive fresh-keeping effects of 'Carola' rose cut flowers at different storage temperatures ranked as 4 °C >0 °C >8 °C, and the qualities of cut flowers stored at 4 °C was the best. In conclusion, the optimal storage temperature for'Carola' rose cut flowers was 4 °C, which provided the best appearance, nutritional and physiological qualities and longer storage life of cut flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the radiative relaxation of electronic excitations through luminescence spectroscopy techniques applied to high-purity KBr crystals subjected to low-temperature (85 K) uniaxial deformation along the <100> and <110> crystallographic directions. Results demonstrate that the most significant enhancement in the intensity of σ-(4.42 eV) and π-(2.3 eV) luminescence from self-trapped excitons in KBr crystals occurs with elastic deformation along the <110> direction, aligning with the axis of the hole component of the anion self-trapped exciton. Deformation-induced changes in X-ray, tunneling, and thermally stimulated luminescence spectra reveal a new band, denoted as Ex, peaking at approximately 3.58 eV, attributed to tunneling charge exchange between the F'- and VK-centers in their ground state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]