bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Ammonia Selectivity by Using Nanofiber PVDF Composite Membranes Fabricated with Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Xiao Man , Shang Yu , Ji Long , Yan Mingwei , Chen Feng , He Qingyao , Yan Shuiping
Published: November 2022

Conventional hydrophobic membrane-based membrane distillation (MD) has been applied for ammonia recovery from an anaerobic digestion (AD) effluent. However, the typical hydrophobic membranes do not have selectivity for ammonia and water vapor, which results in high energy consumption from the water evaporation. To enhance the selectivity during the ammonia recovery process, the functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber membranes were fabricated by electrospinning, and the effects of different CNTs and their contents on the performance of nanofiber membranes were investigated. The results indicate that CNTs can be successfully incorporated into nanofibers by electrospinning. The contact angles of the composite membrane are all higher than those of commercial membrane, and the highest value 138° can be obtained. Most importantly, under the condition of no pH adjustment, the ammonia nitrogen transfer coefficient reaches the maximum value of 3.41 × 10−6 m/s, which is about twice higher than that of commercial membranes. The ammonia separation factor of the carboxylated CNT (C-CNT) composite membrane is higher than that of the hydroxylated CNT(H-CNT) composite membrane. Compared with the application of the novel C-CNT composite membrane, the ammonia separation factor is 47% and 25% higher than that of commercial and neat PVDF membranes. This work gives a novel approach for enhancing ammonia and water selectivity during AD effluent treatment.
Influence of Membrane Fouling and Reverse Salt Flux on Membrane Impedance of Forward Osmosis Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhao Yang , Duan Liang , Liu Xiang , Song Yonghui
Published: November 2022

The forward osmosis membrane (FO membrane) is an emerging wastewater treatment technology in bioelectricity generation, organic substrate removal and wastewater reclamation. Compared with traditional membrane materials, the FO membrane has a more uniform water content distribution and internal solution concentration distribution. In the past, it was believed that one of the important factors restricting power generation was membrane fouling. This study innovatively constructed a mass transfer model of a fouling membrane. Through the analysis of the hydraulic resistance coefficient and the salt mass transfer resistance coefficient, the driving force and the tendency of reverse salt flux during membrane fouling were determined by the model. A surprising discovery was that the fouling membrane can also achieve efficient power generation. The results showed that the hydraulic resistance coefficient of the fouling membrane increased to 4.97 times the initial value, while the salt mass transfer resistance coefficient did not change significantly. Meanwhile, membrane fouling caused concentration polarization in the FO membrane, which enhanced the reverse trend of salt, and the enhancement effect was significantly higher than the impact of the water flux decline caused by membrane pollution. This will make an important contribution to research on FO membrane technology as sustainable membrane technology in wastewater treatment.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Fish-Scaling Resistance of a Ti-Nb Microalloyed Hot-Rolled Enamel Steel
Authors: Zhang Yi , Yu Bo , Zhang Jian , Du Yu , Wang Xiaonan , Wu Hongyan , Gao Xiuhua , Du Linxiu
Published: November 2022

Currently, the fish-scaling resistance of most hot-rolled enamel steels is improved by adding Ti to form fine TiC carbides as hydrogen traps. Given that the hydrogen capture capacity of NbC is higher than that of TiC, the manufacture of hot-rolled enamel steels via Ti-Nb microalloying has a promising future. In the present study, a Ti-Nb microalloyed hot-rolled enamel steel was developed, and its microstructure, mechanical properties, and fish-scaling resistance were studied by optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, tensile test, and hydrogen permeation test. The results show that the microstructure of hot-rolled experimental steel is composed of ferrite and fine carbides, with a large number of fine precipitates uniformly distributed in the ferrite grains. After the first and second enamel firings, the average sizes of ferrite grain and precipitates gradually increase, the yield strength decreases from 711 ± 9 MPa to 471 ± 17 MPa and 409 ± 8 MPa, the tensile strength decreases from 761 ± 7 MPa to 524 ± 15 MPa and 490 ± 12 MPa, and the elongation increases from 21.0 ± 2.8% to 27.8 ± 1.8% and 33.9 ± 1.1%. The hydrogen permeation value (TH value) decreases from 35.9 min/mm2 to 6.8 min/mm2 and 3.9 min/mm2 after the first and second enamel firings. That is, the fish-scaling resistance of hot-rolled experimental steel is significantly reduced after enamel firing, which is caused by the coarsening of precipitates, resulting in a significant reduction in the density of irreversible hydrogen traps (from 1.21 × 1025 cm−3 to 6.50 × 1023 cm−3 and 4.27 × 1023 cm−3). A large amount of semi-coherent precipitates is the key to obtaining the good fish-scaling resistance of hot-rolled enamel steel.
Effect of Solution Heat Treatment on the Porosity Growth of Nickel-Based P/M Superalloys
Authors: Bu Hengyong , Chen Lu , Duan Yonghua
Published: November 2022

Thermal-induced porosity (TIP) is one of the major defects in powder metallurgy (P/M) superalloys, and it seriously affects the performance of P/M superalloys. The effects of solution heat treatment on the growth of the TIP of the nickel-based P/M superalloy FGH97 were investigated. A series of solution heat treatment tests were carried out at holding temperatures ranging from 1150 to 1200 °C, with holding times ranging from 0.5 to 8 h. The results showed that the holding time, temperature, and the initial volume of porosity are the primary factors influencing porosity growth, and the volume fraction of TIPs increases by increasing the temperature or extending the holding time. The porosity growth models were constructed based on the porosity statistics combined with a nonlinear fitting method. To evaluate the accuracy of the proposed models, the correlation coefficient (R) and average absolute relative error (AARE) were calculated between the predicted and experimental values. The unbiased AARE values were 2.06% and 3.99% for the average value of TIP and the worst value of TIP, respectively, which imply that the proposed porosity growth models have greater accuracy and can be used to illustrate TIP behavior in solution heat treatment.
The Impact of Sleep Disturbance on Gut Microbiota, Atrial Substrate, and Atrial Fibrillation Inducibility in Mice: A Multi-Omics Analysis
Authors: Zuo Kun , Fang Chen , Fu Yuan , Liu Zheng , Liu Ye , Liu Lifeng , Wang Yuxing , Wang Hongjiang , Yin Xiandong , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Jing , Zhong Jiuchang , Chen Mulei , Yang Xinchun , Xu Li
Published: November 2022

This study examined the effect of sleep disturbance on gut microbiota (GM), atrial substrate, and atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to six weeks of sleep deprivation (SD) using the method of modified multiple-platform. Transesophageal burst pacing was performed to evaluate AF inducibility. Feces, plasma, and an atrium were collected and analyzed by 16s rRNA sequencing, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based metabolome, histological studies, and transcriptome. Higher AF inducibility (2/30 of control vs. 15/30 of SD, p = 0.001) and longer AF duration (p < 0.001), concomitant with aggravated fibrosis, collagen, and lipid accumulation, were seen in the SD mice compared to control mice. Meanwhile, elevated alpha diversity, higher abundance of Flavonifractor, Ruminococcus, and Alloprevotella, as well as imbalanced functional pathways, were observed in the gut of SD mice. Moreover, the global patterns for the plasma metabolome were altered, e.g., the decreased butanoate metabolism intermediates in SD mice. In addition, disrupted metabolic homeostasis in the SD atrium, such as fatty acid metabolism, was analyzed by the transcriptome. These results demonstrated that the crosstalk between GM and atrial metabolism might be a promising target for SD-mediated AF susceptibility.
Spirulina platensis Suppressed iNOS and Proinflammatory Cytokines in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced BV2 Microglia
Authors: Ngu Ee-Ling , Tan Cheng-Yau , Lai Nicole Jean-Yean , Wong Kah-Hui , Lim Siew-Huah , Ming Long Chiau , Tan Kuan-Onn , Phang Siew-Moi , Yow Yoon-Yen
Published: November 2022

The disease burden of neurodegenerative diseases is on the rise due to the aging population, and neuroinflammation is one of the underlying causes. Spirulina platensis is a well-known superfood with numerous reported bioactivities. However, the effect of S. platensis Universiti Malaya Algae Culture Collection 159 (UMACC 159) (a strain isolated from Israel) on proinflammatory mediators and cytokines remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to determine the anti-neuroinflammatory activity of S. platensis extracts and identify the potential bioactive compounds. S. platensis extracts (hexane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and aqueous) were screened for phytochemical content and antioxidant activity. Ethanol extract was studied for its effect on proinflammatory mediators and cytokines in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglia. The potential bioactive compounds were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric (LC-MS) analysis. Ethanol extract had the highest flavonoid content and antioxidant and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity. Ethanol extract completely inhibited the production of NO via the downregulation of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and significantly reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. Emmotin A, palmitic amide, and 1-monopalmitin, which might play an important role in cell signaling, have been identified. In conclusion, S. platensis ethanol extract inhibited neuroinflammation through the downregulation of NO, TNF-α and IL-6. This preliminary study provided insight into compound(s) isolation, which could contribute to the development of precision nutrition for disease management.
Imaging-Guided Micromachines: Towards Intelligent Systems
Authors: Wang Qianqian
Published: November 2022

Micromachines with controllable motion, deformation, and collective behaviors provide advanced methods for performing tasks that traditional machines have difficulty completing thanks to the development of small-scale robotics, nanotechnology, biocompatible materials, and imaging techniques [...]
Reprogrammable Metasurface Controlled by 2D Thermal Fields
Authors: Zhang Ming , Ye Fuju , Tan Hongrui , Luo Sisi , Cui Haoyang , Chen Lei
Published: November 2022

The combination of thermal field sensing and microwave operation is an innovative topic in metamaterials. Although there exists research on modulating electromagnetic waves by controlling each column of the metasurface elements for programmable metasurfaces, the regulation is not flexible. In view of this, this paper proposes a metasurface based on distributed thermal sensing that can be independently modulated by each element. In this paper, the metasurface adopts a 1-bit coding metasurface, which is combined with PIN diodes to modulate the phase response. The voltage control circuit feeds back the change in the thermistors to the switching state of the PIN diode. Each metasurface unit contains thermistors, which are used to sense thermal stimulation and can be independently modulated. The metasurface composed of these elements can feel the field generated via heat energy. We can control electromagnetic waves by controlling this field. In order to prove the feasibility of this scheme, a metasurface sample of 8 × 8 elements was designed. Three patterns were used for the design, fabrication, and measurement of the samples. Meanwhile, printed circuit board (PCB) technology was applied. The results show that the simulated results are highly consistent with the experimental results, which verifies that this scheme is practicable.
Implementation of the Haptic Tele-Weight Device Using a 10 MHz Smart Torch VLC Link
Authors: Farooq Aqeel , Wu Xiping
Published: November 2022

Considering the prerequisite need for a protected e-commerce platform, absence of haptic interaction in head-mounted displays (HMD), and exploitation of faster communication technology, this research work aims to present an amended version of the tele-weight device that utilizes the 6G visible light communication (VLC) technology, is faster in performance, and deals with a heavier article. The enhanced version of the device is to be called the ‘VLC tele-weight device’ and the aim for the VLC tele-weight device is to get it affixed over the headset which will allow the user to have the weight-based sensation of the product ordered on the virtual store. The proposed device sending end and receiving end part performs communication over the VLC link. Furthermore, Arduino Nano is used as the microcontroller (MCU) in the project. Sending end circuitry measures the weight using the load cell and HX711 amplifier combination and transmits it via the connected LED. The pre-equalizer circuit is connected between the LED and sending end part to improve the bandwidth. On the receiver side, the post-equalizer circuit improves the shape of the received pulse. The received weight value is then displayed using the motor-gear combination. The sending end device is to be sited at the virtual store, while the receiving end is planned to be positioned over the VR headset. The performance of the device was measured by performing repeated trials and the percentage error was found to be between 0.5–3%. Merging the field of embedded systems, internet of things (IoT), VLC, signal processing, virtual reality (VR), e-commerce, and haptic sensing, the idea proposed in this research work can help introduce the haptic interaction, and sensational realization-based innovation in immersive visualization (IV) and graphical user interface (GUI) domain.
Sonochemical Synthesis of Silica-Supported Iron Oxide Nanostructures and Their Application as Catalysts in Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Chen Lyufei , Costa Emily , Kileti Pradheep , Tannenbaum Rina , Lindberg Jake , Mahajan Devinder
Published: November 2022

The emphasis on climate change requires processes to be more efficient to minimize CO2 emissions, and nanostructured materials as catalysts could play a crucial role due to their high surface area per unit volume. Herein, we report the synthesis of silica microspheres (450–600 nm) using a modified Stober process, on which iron oxide clusters were deposited by sonolysis of iron pentacarbonyl to yield a nanostructured iron material (Si-Fe). A suite of spectroscopic techniques was used to characterize the synthesized materials. The BET surface area of freshly prepared Stober silica was 8.00 m2/g, and the Si-Fe material was 24.0 m2/g. Iron is commercially used as a Fischer–Tropsch (F–T) catalyst due to its low cost. However, catalyst attrition causes catalyst loss and lower product quality. In this study, the synthesized Si-Fe materials were evaluated for F–T synthesis to address these challenges. For comparison, two commercial materials, UCI (silica-supported micron-sized iron oxide) and BASF (unsupported nanosized iron oxide), were also evaluated. All three materials were first activated by pretreatment with either CO or synthesis gas (a mixture of CO and H2) for 24 h, then evaluated for quick screening in batch mode for F–T synthesis in a Parr batch reactor at three temperatures: 493 K, 513 K, and 533 K. The F–T data at 513 K showed that the CO-pretreated Si-Fe catalyst demonstrated lower CO2 (<0.5%), lower CH4 (<0.5%), and higher (>58%) C8–C20 selectivity (mol% C) to hydrocarbons, surpassing both reference catalysts. The temperature dependence data for Si-Fe: 17.4%, 58.3%, and 54.9% at 493 K, 513 K, and 533 K, respectively, showed that the hydrocarbon yield maximized at 513 K. The surface area increased to 27.9 m2/g for the CO-reduced Si-Fe catalyst after the F–T reaction at 513 K. The morphology and structural change of catalysts, before and after the F–T runs, were imaged. Of all the catalysts evaluated, the SEM–EDS data analysis showed the least carbon deposition on the CO-treated Si-Fe catalyst after the F–T reaction at 513 K and minimized CO2, a greenhouse gas. This could pave the way for selecting nanomaterials as F–T catalysts that effectively operate at lower temperatures and produce negligible CO2 by minimizing water-gas-shift (WGS) activity.
Isomorphism and Mutual Transformations of S-Bearing Components in Feldspathoids with Microporous Structures
Authors: Chukanov Nikita , Shchipalkina Nadezhda , Shendrik Roman , Vigasina Marina , Tauson Vladimir , Lipko Sergey , Varlamov Dmitry , Shcherbakov Vasiliy , Sapozhnikov Anatoly , Kasatkin Anatoly , Zubkova Natalia , Pekov Igor
Published: November 2022

The isomorphism of S-bearing feldspathoids belonging to the cancrinite, sodalite, tugtupite, vladimirivanovite, bystrite, marinellite and scapolite structure types has been investigated using a multimethodical approach based on infrared, Raman and electron spin resonance (ESR), as well as ultraviolet, visible and near infrared (UV–Vis–near IR) absorption spectroscopy methods and involving chemical and X-ray diffraction data. Sapozhnikovite Na8(Al6Si6O24)(HS)2 and sulfite and thiosulfate analogues of cancrinite are synthesized hydrothermally and characterized by means of electron microprobe analyses, powder X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The possibility of the incorporation of significant amounts of SO42−, S4 and SO32− in the crystal structures of cancrisilite, sulfhydrylbystrite and marinellite, respectively, has been established for the first time. Thermal conversions of S-bearing groups in the synthetic sulfite cancrinite and sapozhnikovite analogues as well as natural vladinirivanovite and S4-bearing haüyne under oxidizing and reducing conditions have been studied using the multimethodical approach. The SO42− and S2− anions and the S3•– radical anion are the most stable S-bearing species under high-temperature conditions (in the range of 700–800 °C); their ratio in the heated samples is determined by the redox conditions and charge-balance requirement. The HS− and S52− anions are stable only under highly reducing conditions.
Reaction Characteristics of Two Types of Shale with Supercritical CO2 and Its Potential Impact on Flow-Back Strategies
Authors: Yan Wei , Leng Guangyao , Li Wenbo , Wu Tao , Safarov Mustajab , Ndessabeka Jean P. E. Amboulou , Meng Keyu
Published: November 2022

Supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) fracturing has been used in developing low permeability and water-sensitive reservoirs in recent years, which is expected to become a new generation of unconventional reservoir fracturing fluid. However, the water-rock interaction characteristics of various lithology shales under SC-CO2 circumstance and its influence on fracturing effect still need to be investigated. Two kinds of shale samples from C7 and S1 formations of the Ordos Basin were treated by SC-CO2 with formation water. The aims of the research are to determine the processes taking place in shale reservoir when considering minerals components transformation, porosity/permeability variation, and micro pore-structure change during the SC-CO2 fracturing. Static and dynamic SC-CO2 immersed experiments were conducted and the scanning of electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to analyze the surface morphology and newly formed minerals. Helium porosimeter, the ultralow permeability meter, and the CT scanner are employed to record the alternation of physical parameters during SC-CO2 dynamic injection. The experimental results show that the C7 samples are rich of chlorite and easily reacting with SC-CO2 saturated formation water to form new minerals, but the S1 samples are insensitive to aqueous SC-CO2. The minimum value of permeability and porosity of the C7 cores appear at 24h in the long-interval experiment, but in the short-interval dynamic experiment, the minimum values move ahead to 12h. The optimal flowback time for the C7 reservoir is before 12 h or after 24 h. The high-pressure SC-CO2 flooding pushes the new forming minerals particles to migrate to the outlet side and block the pore throat. For the S1 core results, the porosity and permeability change little in both short and long interval experiments. There is no strict flow-back time requirement for S1 reservoir during SC-CO2 fracturing. This study is significance for the efficient application of SC-CO2 in the exploitation of shale oil reservoirs.
Dissolution of the Eudialyte-Group Minerals: Experimental Modeling of Natural Processes
Authors: Mikhailova Julia A. , Pakhomovsky Yakov A. , Kalashnikova Galina O. , Aksenov Sergey M.
Published: November 2022

Eudialyte-group minerals (EGMs) are typical accessory or rock-forming minerals of the Lovozero peralkaline massif (Kola Peninsula, Russia). The EGM grains in the rocks of the massif are often replaced by an association of various secondary minerals such as lovozerite and wöhlerite group minerals, as well as terskite, catapleiite, elpidite, gaidonnayite, vlasovite, zircon, and loparite-(Ce). However, EGMs in the Lovozero massif can be not only pseudomorphized, but also partially or completely dissolved. The partial dissolution of eudialyte grains was simulated in three series of experiments, and the results obtained were compared with natural samples. Observations in natural samples and experimental studies have shown that the partial dissolution of eudialyte-group minerals occurs in two stages: (1) loss of sodium and hydration; (2) loss of other cations not included in the zirconosilicate framework. This process proceeds most intensively in acidic hydrothermal solutions and may be responsible for the appearance of new mineral species in the eudialyte group.
Trace Elements and Pb-O Isotopes of Scheelite: Metallogenic Implications for the Shimensi W-Polymetallic Deposit in South China
Authors: Wang Peng , Liang Ting , Jiang HongJun , Xiang XinKui , Zhong Bo
Published: November 2022

The world-class Shimensi tungsten (W)-polymetallic deposit is located in Jiangnan Orogen, with an estimated reserve of 742.5 kt WO3 @ 0.195% W, 403.6 kt Cu and 28 kt Mo. In this paper, the trace elements and Pb-O isotopes of scheelite (the main ore mineral) are presented to study the ore-forming material source and ore-forming fluid evolution. The results show that the REE distribution in scheelite is mainly controlled by the substitution mechanism of 3Ca2+ = 2REE3+ + □Ca (where □Ca is the Ca-site vacancy). Oxygen isotope data indicate that the scheelite mineralization occurred under high-temperature oxygen isotope equilibrium conditions, and that the ore-forming fluid has a magmatic–hydrothermal origin. The variation in scheelite Eu anomalies and the wide range of scheelite Y/Ho ratio indicate that the ore-forming fluid evolves from reducing to oxidizing, and the early-stage and late-stage ore-forming fluid may have been relatively rich in F− and HCO3−, respectively. The significant Mo decrease in scheelite from the early to late stage that are opposite to the influence of fO2 variation may have resulted from the crystallization of molybdenite and Mo-rich scheelite. Lead isotopes of the ore minerals of scheelite, wolframite, molybdenite and chalcopyrite can be divided into three groups, similar to these of feldspars in different granites. Both the Mesozoic porphyritic and fine-grained biotite granites have Pb isotope ratios similar to the ores, which suggests that the former two are the main ore material source.
A Combined Re-Os and Pt-Os Isotope and HSE Abundance Study of Ru-Os-Ir Alloys from the Kunar and Unga Placer Deposits, the Taimyr Peninsula, Polar Siberia
Authors: Malitch Kreshimir N. , Puchtel Igor S. , Belousova Elena A. , Badanina Inna Yu.
Published: November 2022

In order to provide further insights into the origin of Ru-Os-Ir alloys, this study presents new highly siderophile element (HSE: Re, Os, Ir, Ru, Pt, and Pd) abundance and 187Re-187Os and 190Pt-186Os isotope data for detrital grains of native Ru-Os-Ir alloys in placer deposits of the Kunar and Unga Rivers, which display a close spatial association with the Kunar dunite–harzburgite complex in the northern part of the Taimyr Peninsula in the Polar Siberia. The study utilized electron microprobe analysis, negative thermal ionization mass-spectrometry (N-TIMS) and laser ablation multiple-collector inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (LA MC-ICP-MS). The primary nature of the Ru-Os-Ir alloys is supported by the occurrence of euhedral inclusions of high-Mg olivine (Fo92–93) that fall within the compositional range of mantle olivine. The LA MC-ICP-MS data show similar average initial 187Os/188Os and γ187Os(740 Ma) values for PGM assemblages from the Kunar and Unga deposits of 0.1218 ± 0.0010, −0.18 ± 0.85, and 0.1222 ± 0.0025, +0.10 ± 2.1, respectively. These values are identical, within their respective uncertainties, to the initial 187Os/188Os value of the Ru-Os-Ir alloy grain measured by N-TIMS (0.1218463 ± 0.0000015, γ187Os(740 Ma) = −0.1500 ± 0.0012). The combined 187Re-187Os isotopic data for all studied grains (γ187Os(740 Ma) = −0.02 ± 1.6) indicate evolution of the Kunar and Unga mantle sources with a long-term chondritic 187Re/188Os ratio of 0.401 ± 0.030. In contrast to the 187Os/188Os data, the initial 186Os/188Os value of 0.1198409 ± 0.0000012 (µ186Os(740 Ma) = +34 ± 10) obtained for the same Ru-Os-Ir alloy grain by N-TIMS is suprachondritic and implies evolution of the Kunar and Unga mantle source(s) with a long-term suprachondritic 190Pt/188Os ratio of 0.00247 ± 0.00021. This value is ~40% higher than the average chondritic 190Pt/188Os ratio of 0.00180 and indicates long-term enrichment of the Kunar source in Pt over Os. Establishing the source of this enrichment requires further investigation.
Seismic Wave Finite-Difference Forward Modeling for Orogenic Gold Deposits
Authors: Pang Yao , Yan Lijun , Liu Yuan , Tang Lin , Zhu Rui , Liu Guofeng
Published: November 2022

The demand for deep prospecting has led to an increase in the enthusiasm for seismic techniques in mineral exploration. Reflection seismology applications in the base metal industry have achieved success. For orogenic gold deposits, however, their applicable conditions remain to be investigated. This paper simulated seismic wave propagation based on a finite-difference algorithm with an accuracy of eighth order in space and second order in time to investigate the factors influencing the reflection seismic exploration results. Then, the paper assessed the algorithm’s feasibility for orogenic gold deposits, taking the giant Zaozigou deposit in central China as an example. The forward modeling showed that the petrophysical properties, dimensions, and dip of targets significantly affected the seismic exploration results. In the Zaozigou model, shallowly dipping orebodies were well imaged with precise extension and thickness. Steeply dipping orebodies were recognized but their thickness information was lost. Steeply dipping orebodies at depth were not detectable under a surface configuration. These problems could be effectively solved by increasing the array length and using vertical seismic profiling methods. For small orebodies, multiwave and multicomponent seismic techniques offered more valuable information in terms of mineral exploration. In conclusion, it was possible to locate orogenic gold deposits using the reflection seismology method.
Valorization Potential of Polish Laterite Leaching Residues through Alkali Activation
Authors: Karmali Vasiliki , Petrakis Evangelos , Bartzas Georgios , Komnitsas Konstantinos
Published: November 2022

In this study, the valorization potential of Polish laterite leaching residues through alkali activation with the use of NaOH and Na2SiO3 solutions as activators was investigated. The effect of the main factors, namely the H2O/Na2O molar ratio in the activating solution, the curing temperature, and the ageing period on the main properties of the produced alkali activated materials (AAMs) was assessed. The experimental results showed that AAMs with sufficient compressive strength were only produced when the laterite leaching residues were mixed with significant quantities of metakaolin; thus, when the mass ratio of laterite leaching residues and metakaolin was 0.50, after curing at 40 °C for 24 h and ageing for 7 days, the produced AAMs acquired compressive strength that slightly exceeded 25 MPa. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) analysis were used for the characterization of the raw materials and selected AAMs. Furthermore, the structural integrity of the specimens was investigated after immersion in distilled water and acidic solution (1 mol L−1 HCl), or after firing at higher temperatures. Finally, the toxicity of the produced AAMs was assessed with the use of standard leaching tests.
Recovery of Uranium, Thorium, and Other Rare Metals from Eudialyte Concentrate by a Binary Extractant Based on 1,5-bis[2-(hydroxyethoxyphosphoryl)-4-ethylphenoxy]-3-oxapentane and Methyl Trioctylammonium Nitrate
Authors: Safiulina Alfiya M. , Lizunov Alexey V. , Semenov Aleksandr A. , Baulin Dmitriy V. , Baulin Vladimir E. , Tsivadze Aslan Yu. , Aksenov Sergey M. , Tananaev Ivan G.
Published: November 2022

Eudialyte-group minerals are of scientific interest as important concentrators of rare elements (mainly Zr and REE) in agpaitic alkaline rocks and a potential source of REE, Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta for industrial use. Extraction of uranium(VI), thorium(IV), zirconium(IV), hafnium(IV), titanium(IV), and scandium(III) by a binary extractant based on 1,5-bis[2-(hydroxyethoxyphosphoryl)-4-ethylphenoxy]-3-oxapentane and methyl trioctylammonium nitrate from eudialyte breakdown solutions is studied. Extraction isotherms were obtained and exhaustive extraction was investigated. It is shown that uranium, thorium, hafnium, zirconium, scandium, and titanium are almost completely recovered in two-stage extraction by a mixture of 1,5-bis[2-(hydroxyethoxyphosphoryl)-4-ethylphenoxy]-3-oxapentane and methyltrioctylammonium nitrate in 1,2-dichloroethane. Quantitative characteristics were compared for uranium(VI), thorium(IV), zirconium(IV), hafnium(IV), titanium(IV), and scandium(III). It was shown that the extraction efficiency of the metals by the binary extractant based on 1,5-bis[2-(hydroxyethoxyphosphoryl)-4-ethylphenoxy]-3-oxapentane and methyltrioctylammonium nitrate in 1,2-dichloroethane is much higher in comparison with the commercially available tributyl phosphate.
The Trypanosoma cruzi TcrNT2 Nucleoside Transporter Is a Conduit for the Uptake of 5-F-2′-Deoxyuridine and Tubercidin Analogues
Authors: Aldfer Mustafa M. , Alfayez Ibrahim A. , Elati Hamza A. A. , Gayen Nilanjana , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb , Milena Murillo Ana , Marsiccobetre Sabrina , Van Calenbergh Serge , Silber Ariel M. , de Koning Harry P.
Published: November 2022

Among the scarce validated drug targets against Chagas disease (CD), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite’s nucleoside salvage system has recently attracted considerable attention. Although the trypanocidal activity of tubercidin (7-deazapurine) has long been known, the identification of a class of 7-substituted tubercidin analogs with potent in vitro and in vivo activity and much-enhanced selectivity has made nucleoside analogs among the most promising lead compounds against CD. Here, we investigate the recently identified TcrNT2 nucleoside transporter and its potential role in antimetabolite chemotherapy. TcrNT2, expressed in a Leishmania mexicana cell line lacking the NT1 nucleoside transporter locus, displayed very high selectivity and affinity for thymidine with a Km of 0.26 ± 0.05 µM. The selectivity was explained by interactions of 2-oxo, 4-oxo, 5-Me, 3′-hydroxy and 5′-hydroxy with the transporter binding pocket, whereas a hydroxy group at the 2′ position was deleterious to binding. This made 5-halogenated 2′-deoxyuridine analogues good substrates but 5-F-2′-deoxyuridine displayed disappointing activity against T. cruzi trypomastigotes. By comparing the EC50 values of tubercidin and its 7-substituted analogues against L. mexicana Cas9, Cas9ΔNT1 and Cas9ΔNT1+TcrNT2 it was shown that TcrNT2 can take up tubercidin and, at a minimum, a subset of the analogs.
Determination of Glyphosate in White and Brown Rice with HPLC-ICP-MS/MS
Authors: Fontanella Maria Chiara , Lamastra Lucrezia , Beone Gian Maria
Published: November 2022

Background: In 2017, the European Commission renewed the approval of glyphosate (GLY) but only for five years. GLY remains one of the most controversial and studied molecules. Method: A simplified method was tested for the determination of GLY in white rice (WR) and brown rice (BR), after extraction only with a methanol solution, by liquid chromatography coupled with inductively coupled mass triple quadrupole (HPLC-ICP-MS/MS) with a PRP-X100 anionic column. After performing a test on groundwater, the quantification of GLY in WR and BR was validated in terms of the LOD, LOQ, accuracy, precision, linearity, and the matrix effect. Results: The LOD was 0.0027 mg kg−1 for WR and 0.0136 mg kg−1 for BR. The LOQ was 0.0092 mg kg−1 for WR and 0.0456 mg kg−1 for BR. The mean recoveries were within 76–105% at three fortification levels. The relative standard deviation for the analysis (five replicates for three spike levels) was < 11% for both matrices. A linear response was confirmed in all cases in the entire concentration range (R2WR = 1.000 and R2BR = 0.9818). Conclusion: The proposed method could be considered useful for the determination of GLY in different types of rice and designed and adapted for other cereals. The matrix effect, quantified in BR matrix extraction, could be avoided by using a matrix-matched calibration line.
Bioimaging of Lysosomes with a BODIPY pH-Dependent Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Gonçalves Raquel C. R. , Belmonte-Reche Efres , Pina João , Costa da Silva Milene , Pinto Sónia C. S. , Gallo Juan , Costa Susana P. G. , Raposo M. Manuela M.
Published: November 2022

Fluorescence-based probes represent a powerful tool for noninvasive imaging of living systems in real time and with a high temporal and spatial resolution. Amongst several known fluorophores, 3-difluoroborodipyrromethene (BODIPY) derivatives have become a cornerstone for innovative fluorescent labelling applications, mainly due to their advantageous features including their facile synthesis, structural versatility and exceptional photophysical properties. In this context, we report a BODIPY-based fluorescent probe for imaging of lysosomes in living cells. The BODIPY derivative displayed a remarkable fluorescence enhancement at low pH values with a pKa* of 3.1. In vitro studies by confocal microscopy in HeLa cells demonstrated that the compound was able to permeate cell membrane and selectively label lysosome whilst remaining innocuous to the cell culture at the maximum concentration tested. Herein, the BODIPY derivative holds the promise of investigating lysosomal dynamics and function in living cells through fluorescence imaging.
Curcuma longa L. Rhizome Extract as a Poly(vinyl chloride)/Graphene Nanocomposite Green Modifier
Authors: Wilczewski Sławomir , Skórczewska Katarzyna , Tomaszewska Jolanta , Lewandowski Krzysztof , Studziński Waldemar , Osial Magdalena , Jenczyk Piotr , Grzywacz Hubert , Domańska Agata
Published: November 2022

In this work, a method to increase the dispersion of graphene (GN) in the matrix of rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) by using a natural plant extract from Curcuma longa L. (CE) is proposed. Currently, despite the increasing number of reports on the improvement of GN dispersion in PVC blends, still there is a need to find environmentally friendly and economical dispersion stabilizers. We proposed a stabilizer that can be easily obtained from a plant offering thermal stability and high effectiveness. PVC/GN nanocomposites stabilized with the proposed extract were investigated by SEM, AFM (structure), TGA, and Congo red test (thermal properties). Additionally, static and dynamic mechanical properties and electrical resistivity were measured. The use of CE as a graphene dispersant improved its dispersion in the PVC matrix, influenced tensile properties, increased the storage modulus and glass transition temperature, and extended the thermal stability time of nanocomposites. In this work, a CE extract is proposed as an efficient eco-friendly additive for the production of nanocomposites with an improved homogeneity of a nanofiller in the matrix and promising characteristics.
First-Principles Prediction of New 2D p-SiPN: A Wide Bandgap Semiconductor
Authors: Bhandari Sharma Shambhu , Qattan Issam , KC Santosh , Abedrabbo Sufian
Published: November 2022

Pentagonal two-dimensional ternary sheets are an emerging class of materials because of their novel characteristic and wide range of applications. In this work, we use first-principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations to identify a new pentagonal SiPN, p-SiPN, which is geometrically, thermodynamically, dynamically, and mechanically stable, and has promising experimental potential. The new p-SiPN shows an indirect bandgap semiconducting behavior that is highly tunable with applied equ-biaxial strain. It is mechanically isotropic, along the x-y in-plane direction, and is a soft material possessing high elasticity and ultimate strain. In addition, its exceptional anisotropic optical response with strong UV light absorbance, and small reflectivity and electron energy loss make it a potential material for optoelectronics and nanomechanics.
A Stable Rechargeable Aqueous Zn–Air Battery Enabled by Heterogeneous MoS2 Cathode Catalysts
Authors: Wang Min , Huang Xiaoxiao , Yu Zhiqian , Zhang Pei , Zhai Chunyang , Song Hucheng , Xu Jun , Chen Kunji
Published: November 2022

Aqueous rechargeable zinc (Zn)–air batteries have recently attracted extensive research interest due to their low cost, environmental benignity, safety, and high energy density. However, the sluggish kinetics of oxygen (O2) evolution reaction (OER) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of cathode catalysts in the batteries result in the high over-potential that impedes the practical application of Zn–air batteries. Here, we report a stable rechargeable aqueous Zn–air battery by use of a heterogeneous two-dimensional molybdenum sulfide (2D MoS2) cathode catalyst that consists of a heterogeneous interface and defects-embedded active edge sites. Compared to commercial Pt/C-RuO2, the low cost MoS2 cathode catalyst shows decent oxygen evolution and acceptable oxygen reduction catalytic activity. The assembled aqueous Zn–air battery using hybrid MoS2 catalysts demonstrates a specific capacity of 330 mAh g−1 and a durability of 500 cycles (~180 h) at 0.5 mA cm−2. In particular, the hybrid MoS2 catalysts outperform commercial Pt/C in the practically meaningful high-current region (>5 mA cm−2). This work paves the way for research on improving the performance of aqueous Zn–air batteries by constructing their own heterogeneous surfaces or interfaces instead of constructing bifunctional catalysts by compounding other materials.
Highly Efficient Antibacterial Polymer Composites Based on Hydrophobic Riboflavin Carbon Polymerized Dots
Authors: Marković Zoran M. , Kováčová Mária , Jeremić Sanja R. , Nagy Štefan , Milivojević Dušan D. , Kubat Pavel , Kleinová Angela , Budimir Milica D. , Mojsin Marija M. , Stevanović Milena J. , Annušová Adriana , Špitalský Zdeno , Todorović Marković Biljana M.
Published: November 2022

Development of new types of antimicrobial coatings is of utmost importance due to increasing problems with pathogen transmission from various infectious surfaces to human beings. In this study, new types of highly potent antimicrobial polyurethane composite films encapsulated by hydrophobic riboflavin-based carbon polymer dots are presented. Detailed structural, optical, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic investigations of these composites were conducted. Low-power blue light triggered the composites to eradicate Escherichia coli in 30 min, whereas the same effect toward Staphylococcus aureus was reached after 60 min. These composites also show low toxicity against MRC-5 cells. In this way, RF-CPD composites can be used for sterilization of highly touched objects in the healthcare industry.
Correction: Diniz et al. Silver Nanoparticles-Composing Alginate/Gelatine Hydrogel Improves Wound Healing In Vivo. Nanomaterials 2020, 10, 390
Authors: Diniz Flavia Resende , Maia Romerito Cesar A. P. , de Andrade Lucas Rannier M. , Andrade Luciana Nalone , Vinicius Chaud Marco , da Silva Classius Ferreira , Corrêa Cristiane Bani , de Albuquerque Junior Ricardo Luiz C. , Pereira da Costa Luiz , Shin Su Ryon , Hassan Shabir , Sanchez-Lopez Elena , Souto Eliana Barbosa , Severino Patricia
Published: November 2022

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 6 as published [...]
Generation of Subdiffraction Optical Needles by Simultaneously Generating and Focusing Azimuthally Polarized Vortex Beams through Pancharatnam–Berry Metalenses
Authors: Shen Zhe , Huang Shijie
Published: November 2022

Needle beams have received widespread attention due to their unique characteristics of high intensity, small focal size, and extended depth of focus (DOF). Here, a single–layer all–dielectric metalens based on Pancharatnam–Berry (PB) was used to efficiently generate and focus an azimuthally polarized vortex beam at the same time. Then, additional phase or amplitude modulation was respectively adopted to work with the metalens to produce optical needles. By decorating the PB metalens with the binary optical element (BOE), an optical needle with full–width–at–half–maximum (FWHM) of 0.47 λ and DOF of 3.42 λ could be obtained. By decorating the PB metalens with an annular aperture, an optical needle with long DOF (16.4 λ) and subdiffraction size (0.46 λ) could be obtained. It is expected that our work has potential applications in super–resolution imaging, photolithography, and particle trapping.
Totally Spin-Polarized Currents in an Interferometer with Spin–Orbit Coupling and the Absence of Magnetic Field Effects
Authors: Lopes Victor , Chiappe Guillermo , Ribeiro Laercio C. , Anda Enrique V.
Published: November 2022

The paper studies the electronic current in a one-dimensional lead under the effect of spin–orbit coupling and its injection into a metallic conductor through two contacts, forming a closed loop. When an external potential is applied, the time reversal symmetry is broken and the wave vector k of the circulating electrons that contribute to the current is spin-dependent. As the wave function phase depends upon the vector k, the closed path in the circuit produces spin-dependent current interference. This creates a physical scenario in which a spin-polarized current emerges, even in the absence of external magnetic fields or magnetic materials. It is possible to find points in the system’s parameter space and, depending upon its geometry, the value of the Fermi energy and the spin–orbit intensities, for which the electronic states participating in the current have only one spin, creating a high and totally spin-polarized conductance. For a potential of a few tens of meV, it is possible to obtain a spin-polarized current of the order of μA. The properties of the obtained electronic current qualify the proposed device as a potentially important tool for spintronics applications.
CoSn3 Intermetallic Nanoparticles for Electronic Packaging
Authors: Wang Jintao , Lv Ziwen , Zhang Luobin , Duan Fangcheng , Zhang Weiwei , Chen Hongtao
Published: November 2022

At present, composite solder pastes are getting a lot of attention, especially composite Sn based solders reinforced by nanoparticles. Indeed, CoSn3 is a strong nucleating agent of Sn crystal, which has potential application value in the field of electronic packaging. However, there is no reliable synthetic path for CoSn3 nanoparticles at present. In this article, a chemical synthesis method for CoSn3 nanoparticles is developed. Here, CoCl2 and SnCl2 are reduced by NaHB4 in triethylene glycol (TEG), dispersed by ultrasonics, and heated to 350 °C in a tube furnace for growth. The CoSn3 nanoparticles with a diameter of about 150 nm are obtained by heating at 350 °C for 10 min. The CoSn3 nanoparticles undergo a step reaction in the process of synthesis and go through different stages of merging and annexation during their growth. The crystal growth behavior and the process of orientation change during the nucleation and growth of CoSn3 nanoparticles are studied, especially the two growth mechanisms, namely OU (orientation unified) and OA (orientation attached). By mixing CoSn3 nanoparticles with SAC305, we obtain a kind of strengthened composite soldering paste. There are obvious six-fold cyclic twins in the joints made by this soldering paste.
Cascade Förster Resonance Energy Transfer Studies for Enhancement of Light Harvesting on Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Efa Mulugeta Tesema , Huang Jheng-Chang , Imae Toyoko
Published: November 2022

This work reports cascade Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based n-type (ZnO) and p-type (NiO) dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), discussing approaches to enhance their overall performance. Although DSSCs suffer from poorer performance than other solar cells, the use of composites with carbon dot (Cdot) can enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of DSSCs. However, further improvements are demanded through molecular design to stimulate DSSCs. Here, a photosensitized system based on a cascade FRET was induced alongside the conventional photosensitizer dye (N719). To N719 in a DSSC is transferred the energy cascaded through donor fluorescence materials (pyrene, 3-acetyl-7-N,N-diethyl-coumarin or coumarin and acridine orange), and this process enhances the light-harvesting properties of the sensitizers in the DSSC across a broad region of the solar spectrum. PCE values of 10.7 and 11.3% were achieved for ZnO/Cdot and NiO/Cdot DSSCs, respectively. These high PCE values result from the energy transfer among multi-photosensitizers (cascade FRET fluorophores, N719, and Cdot). Moreover, Cdot can play a role in intensifying the adsorption of dyes and discouraging charge recombination on the semiconductor. The present results raise expectations that a significant improvement in photovoltaic performance can be attained of DSSCs exploiting the cascade FRET photonics phenomenon.
Lead-Free Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 Ferroelectric Nanomaterials for Pyro-Catalytic Dye Pollutant Removal under Cold-Hot Alternation
Authors: Wu Zheng , Wu Siqi , Hong Siqi , Shi Xiaoyu , Guo Di , Zhang Yan , Xu Xiaoli , Chen Zhi , Jia Yanmin
Published: November 2022

In this work, explicitly pyro-catalytic performance is observed in sol-gel-synthesized ferroelectric Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 lead-free nanomaterials, and its application for dye wastewater purification is also actualized under temperature fluctuations varying from 23 °C to 63 °C. The decomposition ratios of the pyro-catalytic Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 nanomaterials on Rhodamine B, methyl blue and methyl orange can reach 96.75%, 98.35% and 19.97%, respectively. In the pyro-catalytic process, the probed active species such as hydroxyl radicals, superoxide radicals and holes play an extremely important role in decomposing dye molecules. The ferroelectric Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 lead-free nanomaterials will have an excellent prospect for dye wastewater purification due to its explicit pyro-catalysis.