bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biology of the Apionidae (Coleoptera: Curculionoidea) in New Caledonia, a preliminary report
Authors: WANAT MAREK , MUNZINGER JÉRÔME
Published: May 2019

Host records on the weevil family Apionidae in New Caledonia are summarised, based on field observations in 2004–2010, and supplemented with dates of collecting freshly emerged adult specimens obtained from museum collections worldwide. At the genus level, the following generalised host associations of the Apionidae have been documented: Rhadinocyba (only the Rh. singularis-species group), Megatracheloides and Himantapion with Hibbertia (Dilleniaceae); Discelapion, Thyridapion and Pterapion (s. str.) with Pycnandra, Planchonella, and Beccariella (Sapotaceae); Apterapion with Codia (Cunoniaceae); Hellerenius and Caledonapion with Hedycarya (Monimiaceae); Anapotapion with Piper and Macropiper (Piperaceae), Sterculapion with Commersonia (Malvaceae). Various species of Tetrapion were collected either from Codia (Cunoniaceae) or Guioa, Cupaniopsis ( Sapindaceae). Recorded associations of Diapion with Ficus (Moraceae), and Zimmius with Cryptocarya (Lauraceae) still need confirmation. Two generations per season are likely in members of at least Rhadinocyba, Megatracheloides, and Pterapion, judging from the extended period of appearance of teneral specimens. The subgenus Apterapion Wanat, 2001 of Pterapion Faust, 1889 is raised to genus rank, with type-species Apterapion hamiota (Wanat, 2001).
Revision of the African genus Neomacrocoris (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha: Naucoridae)
Authors: SITES ROBERT W. , MBOGHO AARON Y.
Published: May 2019

The genus Neomacrocoris is endemic to Africa and represented by 12 known species with scant mention in the literature. Presented here is an annotated list of the species summarizing the literature and providing available diagnostic information, illustrations, known repositories of types, and a taxonomic key. Also presented here are descriptions of four new species of Neomacrocoris from South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda. Macrocoris transvaalensis Distant is transferred to Neomacrocoris. N. handlirschi var. armatus Poisson 1948 is synonymized with N. handlirschi handlirschi (Montandon 1909). Further, designated here are a neotype for N. usambaricus Montandon and lectotypes for N. dubius Poisson, N. handlirschi (Montandon), N. hungerfordi Poisson, N. nanus Poisson, N. parviceps (Montandon), and N. transvaalensis.
Taxonomy of 'Euconnus complex'. Part I. Morphology of Euconnus s. str. and revision of Euconnomorphus Franz and Venezolanoconnus Franz (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: May 2019

The large 'Euconnus complex' of genera includes Cyrtoscydmini with long, slender and strongly projecting mesoventral intercoxal process. Diagnoses of individual genera, including that of Euconnus Thomson, are exceptionally poorly defined and need to be revised. In the first part of this revision a detailed morphology of Euconnus s. str. is described and illustrated, based on the type species of the genus. Two Neotropical members of the complex, genera Euconnomorphus Franz and Venezolanoconnus Franz are revised; their morphology is described and diagnoses re-defined. Euconnomorphus pilosissimus Franz, Venezolanoconnus andinus Franz, V. caracasensis Franz and V. ranchoi Franz are redescribed. Venezolanoconnus minor Franz is transferred to Euconnus, resulting in Euconnus (incertae sedis) minor (Franz), comb. n.
First Inventory of Sea Anemones (Cnidaria: Actiniaria) of the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: GONZALEZ-MUÑOZ RICARDO , SIMÕES NUNO , SANCHEZ-RODRIGUEZ JUDITH , RODRIGUEZ ESTEFANIA , SEGURA-PUERTAS LOURDES
Published: May 2019

Ten species of sea anemones (Anthozoa: Actiniaria) are documented in the Mexican Caribbean based on observations andcollections in 11 coral reef localities during 2006–2011; three of them are new records for Mexico. These species belongto families Actiniidae, Aiptasiidae, Aliciidae, Boloceroididae, Phymanthidae, and Stichodactylidae. Although these do notrepresent all species reported in the Mexican Caribbean, these are the most abundant and conspicuous. This work represents the first inventory of sea anemones of the Mexican Caribbean.
Revalidation of Oliera Brèthes (Lepidoptera: Cecidosidae) based on a redescription of O. argentinana and DNA analysis of Neotropical cecidosids
Authors: MOREIRA GILSON R. P. , GONÇALVES GISLENE L. , ELTZ RODRIGO P. , SAN BLAS GERMÁN , DAVIS DONALD R.
Published: May 2019

Larvae of Oliera argentinana, Brèthes 1916 (Lepidoptera: Cecidosidae) were rediscovered inducing spindle-shaped gallsenclosed within swollen stems of Schinus (Anacardiaceae) in central Argentina and Rio Grande do Sul, the southernmoststate of Brazil. Male, female, immature stages, and plant galls of O. argentinana are redescribed, using optical andscanning electron microscopy. The genus Oliera Brèthes, 1916, previously a junior synonym of Cecidoses Curtis, 1835,is revalidated, by comparing morphological characteristics within the family and through an analysis of mitochondrial(COI) DNA sequences, including putative members of the four Neotropical cecidosid genera. Information on preliminary Cecidosidae phylogeny and taxonomy is also provided.
Species of Bittacomorphella Alexander from China with descriptions of two new species (Diptera: Ptychopteridae)
Authors: KANG ZEHUI , WANG JUNCHAO , YANG DING
Published: May 2019

The genus Bittacomorphella (Alexander) is newly recorded from the Chinese mainland. Two species, Bittacomorphella gongshana sp. nov. and B. zhaotongensis sp. nov., are described. A key to males of described Bittacomorphella from the Oriental region is presented.
A new species of Lathrobium Gravenhorst (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae) from Yulongxueshan Mountain, Southwest China
Authors: PENG ZHONG , LI LI-ZHEN , ZHAO MEI-JUN
Published: May 2019

Up to today, eighteen species of the genus Lathrobium Gravenhorst, 1802 have been recorded from Yunnan Province (Assing, 2012; Bernhauer, 1938; Herman, 2003; Hua, 2002; Watanabe & Xiao, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2000), three of which, L. lijiangense Watanabe & Xiao, 1997, L. yinae Watanabe & Xiao, 1997 and L. naxii Watanabe & Xiao, 1996, are distributed in the Yulongxueshan.
A new eriophyoid mite genus and species, Gymnaceria cupuassu (Acari: Eriophyidae), described from the cupuaçu tree in Brazil
Authors: OLIVEIRA ANIBAL R. , RODRIGUES DANIELA F. S. , FLECHTMANN CARLOS H. W.
Published: May 2019

A new eriophyoid mite genus and species, Gymnaceria cupuassu n. sp. et n. gen. (Acari: Eriophyidae: Eriophyinae: Ace-riini), is described from young fruits and other plant parts of the cupuaçu tree, Theobroma grandiflorum (Willd. Ex Spreng.) K. Schum. (Sterculiaceae), from the State of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. No visible damage symptoms were observed.
Oziella sibirica (Acari: Eriophyoidea: Phytoptidae), a new eriophyoid mite species described using confocal microscopy, COI barcoding and 3D surface reconstruction
Authors: CHETVERIKOV PHILIPP E. , BEAULIEU FRÉDÉRIC , CVRKOVIĆ TATJANA , VIDOVIĆ BILJANA , PETANOVIĆ RADMILA U.
Published: May 2019

Oziella sibirica sp. nov., collected from sedges (Cyperaceae: Carex macroura) in Siberia, Russia, is herein describedbased on the external morphology of all active instars using primarily conventional phase contrast microscopy, andon the female internal genitalia and prodorsal shield design using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM)imaging and a 3D modelling technique. A partial mitochondrial COI gene sequence of O. sibirica sp. nov. is alsoprovided, through GenBank, and this represents the first published record of any gene sequence data for the familyPhytoptidae. We present remarks on the phylogenetic significance of the position of setae 3a in immature instars oferiophyoids and on the ontogenic variability of the empodium morphology of O. sibirica sp. nov. Using this speciesas a model, we propose a method for describing the internal genitalia of eriophyoids based on CLSM. We advocatethe use of CLSM imaging as a new, relatively simple technique for observing and describing the internal genitalia oferiophyoids, as these largely unexplored genitalic structures may provide phylogenetically meaningful informationfor improving the classification of this poorly understood group of mites. In addition, CLSM may complementconventional light microscopy techniques in facilitating the interpretation of external structures such as body ornamentation or chaetotaxy.
Revision of Semiodera Chamberlin, 1919 (Polychaeta: Flabelligeridae)
Authors: SALAZAR-VALLEJO SERGIO I.
Published: May 2019

Some flabelligerid bodies are modified into a thick thorax and a long, thinner abdomen, or cauda; the thorax usually hassome sediment particles cemented forming a dorsal shield, and these flabelligerids have been found boring into consoli-dated sediments or calcareous substrates. Two species, Pherusa inflata (Treadwell, 1914) and P. parmata (Grube, 1877),are frequently recorded from many different environmental conditions and localities. The study of all type or non-typematerials of similar flabelligerids had several results: 1) The species with bodies modified into thorax and cauda, usuallycarrying a dorsal shield, are removed from Pherusa Oken, 1807; 2) Two body patterns are recognized on the basis of thetype of neurochaetae in transitional chaetigers (3–5), and on the development of the caudae; 3) Semiodera Chamberlin,1919 is redefined to include species with a dorsal shield variously developed, pseudocompound transitional chaetae, andcaudae usually cylindrical with few neurohooks; 4) Daylithos n. gen., includes species with well-developed dorsal shield,multiarticulate or aristate transitional neurochaetae, and caudae usually depressed with few to many neurohooks; 5) Semi-odera includes Semiodera caribea (Grube & Ørsted in Grube, 1859) new spelling, n. comb. (type species), S. blakei n.sp., S. curviseta (Caullery, 1944) n. comb., S. dubia (Treadwell, 1929) n. comb., S. glynni n. sp., S. inflata (Treadwell,1914) n. comb., S. laevis (Stimpson, 1856) n. comb., S. mezianei n. sp., S. nishii n. sp., S. salazarae n. sp., S. tenera(Grube, 1868) n. comb., S. tovarae n. sp., S. treadwelli n. sp. and S. villalobosi n. sp.; 6), Daylithos n. gen. includes Day-lithos parmatus Grube, 1878 n. comb. (type species), D. amorae n. sp., D. cinctus (Haswell, 1892) n. comb., D. dieteri n. sp., D. iris (Michaelsen, 1892) n. comb., and D. nudus (Caullery, 1944) n. comb.
Three new species of the genus Neuquenaphis (Hemiptera, Aphididae, Spicaphidinae) from southernmost South America
Authors: NAFRÍA JUAN MANUEL NIETO , DOHLEN CAROL D. VON , BROWN PAUL A. , DURANTE M. PILAR MIER , ORTEGO JAIME , CIRUELOS SARA I. LÓPEZ , LICHT MEGAN
Published: May 2019

Three new species of Neuquenaphis Blanchard are described from aphids collected in southernmost South America on several species of Nothofagus, southern beeches: Neuquenaphis blackmani Nieto Nafría and Brown, sp. n. from apterous and alate viviparous females and alatoid nymphs collected on Nothofagus dombeyi in Los Lagos and Los Ríos regions (Chile) and on Nothofagus nitida in Los Ríos region, Neuquenaphis aurata Mier Durante and von Dohlen, sp. n. from apterous and alate viviparous females collected on Nothofagus betuloides in Magallanes region (Chile) and Tierra del Fuego province (Argentina), and Neuquenaphis ramireziNieto Nafría and Ortego, sp. n. from apterous viviparous females collected on Nothofagus pumilio and N. antarctica in Tierra del Fuego province (Argentina) and La Araucanía, Aysén and Magallanes regions (Chile). Sequences of the mitochondrial COI “barcode” region and the tRNAleu-COII locus support the distinction of these new species from described Neuquenaphis species. Morphological characteristics that differentiate the new species from already described species of the genus are discussed. Partial identification keys for known apterous and alate viviparous females of Neuquenaphis species are presented on the basis of those established by Quednau (2010).
Two new species of the genus Hamodes Guenée, 1852 (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Erebinae) from China, with notes on a new record in mainland China
Authors: WEI FU-HONG , WANG MIN
Published: May 2019

Two new species of the genus Hamodes Guenée, 1852, H. pseudobutleri sp. nov. and H. hainana sp. nov. are described from Southern China. Compared with the already known species H. butleri, the new species have a wider submarginal line on forewing and medial line on hindwing respectively; and in male genitalia, H. pseudobutleri sp. nov. has a shorter and curved saccular process, while H. hainana sp. nov. has a stouter saccular process. In addition, H. pendleburyi Prout, 1932 is recorded in mainland China for the first time. Adults and their genitalia are illustrated.
Taxonomy and natural history of arboreal microhylid frogs (Platypelis) from the Tsaratanana Massif in northern Madagascar, with description of a new species
Authors: RAKOTOARISON ANDOLALAO , GLAW FRANK , VIEITES DAVID R. , RAMINOSOA NOROMALALA R. , VENCES MIGUEL
Published: May 2019

We review the taxonomic status of microhylid frogs of the genus Platypelis occurring on the Tsaratanana mountain rangein northern Madagascar. Two species have originally been described from the region, Platypelis alticola and P.tsaratananaensis. We found P. alticola at elevations from 1589–2429 m, with the population at 1589 m being geneticallydivergent (pairwise sequence divergence in the 16S rRNA gene fragment 3.8%). The species was mainly found in bamboosegments accessible via small holes, and its vocalization was a tonal single-note call repeated in long regular series. Theidentity of P. tsaratananaensis was uncertain for many years. Based on comparisons with the type material we concludethat the name should be applied to a common species in the Tsaratanana region morphologically similar to P. pollicarisbut distinguished by a double-note advertisement call, repeated in long series in P. tsaratananaensis (vs. single-note in P.pollicaris), relative length of toes, and size of the prepollex in males (larger in P. pollicaris). Populations of P.tsaratananaensis from several nearby forests were genetically similar to those from the main Tsaratanana Massif. Thespecies is nidicolous with 1–27 embryos and non-feeding larvae in waterfilled bamboo segments. Oocyte number iscorrelated with female size, and larger adult specimens were found in bamboo segments situated higher above the ground.A new species, Platypelis olgae sp. nov., is described from two sites at ca. 2500 m elevation on the Tsaratanana, based onits genetic and morphological differentiation. It differs from other Platypelis by small body size (adult snout-vent length20–22 mm) the absence or rudimentary state of vomerine teeth, green to yellow ventral color, and absence of contrastingand sharply delimited symmetrical dark dorsal patches. Platypelis alticola, P. tsaratananaensis and P. olgae sp. nov. were regularly parasitized by mites probably of the genus Endotrombicula.
The identity of Sertularia reptans Linnaeus, 1758 (Bryozoa, Candidae)
Authors: VIEIRA LEANDRO M. , JONES MARY E. SPENCER
Published: May 2019

This paper includes a reassessment of Scrupocellaria reptans (Linnaeus, 1758) (basionym Sertularia reptans), thelectotype of which is selected and figured from among herbarium-sheet specimens held at the Linnean Society of London.Material previously assigned to S. reptans was examined, providing morphological characteristics to distinguishScrupocellaria ellisi n. sp. Scrupocellaria reptans has a geographically limited distribution in the United Kingdom, while S. ellisi is more widespread in the North Sea, Northeast Atlantic, Adriatic and Tasmania.
A new species of Trechalea Thorell, 1869 (Araneae: Lycosoidea: Trechaleidae: Trechaleinae) from Costa Rica, with notes on its natural history and ecology
Authors: DA SILVA ESTEVAM L. CRUZ , LAPINSKI WITOLD
Published: May 2019

The genus Trechalea Thorell, 1869 was revised by Carico (1993), who redescribed the eight species known at that time and described two new species, Trechalea boliviensis Carico, 1993 and Trechalea lomalinda Carico, 1993, which were recently transferred to Syntrechalea F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1902 by Silva et al. (2012). Presently, the genus comprises eight species, distributed from Southern Arizona, USA to Northern Argentina (Platnick 2012). Other taxonomic papers on Trechalea were made by Carico (2008b), who described male of T. trinidadensis Carico, 1993, and Carico & Silva (2010) who described a new species, T. rothi Carico & Silva, 2010, from Colombia. Both species were synonymized by Silva & Lise (2010) with T. amazonica F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1903.
New synonymies in the order Urodela Duméril, 1805 (Amphibia, Batrachia), with comments on the use of the formula "new taxon" to designate new nomina
Authors: DUBOIS ALAIN
Published: May 2019

Dubois & Raffaëlli (2012) recently published a new comprehensive taxonomy and nomenclature of the recent salamanders and newts of the world. Almost coincidentally, Wake (2012) published a revised classification of the salamander family Plethodontidae. Three family-series (or family-group) nomina (scientific names) were proposed as new in both papers. According to the date appearing in Zootaxa, the latter paper was published on 18 September 2012, whereas, according to the printer Frédéric Paillart (personal communication), the former was mailed to subscribers of Alytes on 24 October 2012. Therefore the new nomina that are common to both papers are valid in the latter, and invalid junior synonyms and homonyms in the former. I here present complete synonymic lists for these three nomina, as well as a few additional comments.
Photocatalytic Decomposition of N2O Over Ceramics Cordierite/CeO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Ambrožová Nela , Edelmannová Miroslava , Troppová Ivana , Kocí Kamila , Valášková Marta
Published: May 2019

The study is focused on the testing of the photocatalytic ability to decompose nitrous oxide (N2O) over cordierite/CeO2 nanoparticles ceramic photocatalysts. The activity of ceramic materials was compared with the activity of industrially produced TiO2
(Evonik photocatalyst). Photocatalytic decomposition of N2O over the ceramic samples and the TiO2 Evonik was performed in annular batch reactor illuminated with 8 W Hg lamp (λ ═ 254 nm wavelength). Reaction kinetics was well described by pseudo 1st
rate law. Photocatalytic activity of cordierite/CeO2 was better in comparison with TiO2 Evonik P25. The highest N2O conversion (56%) after 20 h of irradiation in inert gas was achieved over the sample with higher amount of CeO2. This photocatalyst
sample was examined for photocatalytic activity in the decomposition of N2O in the three various gaseous feed mixtures. The gaseous feed mixtures were: N2O enriched with O2 (6.5 mol.%); N2O enriched with H2O(25 mol.%) and N2O
enriched with mixture of O2 and H2O(6.5 mol.% and 25 mol.%, respectively). It is assumed that the reduced conversion of N2O (47%) observed in the flow of the mixture of N2O and H2Ocould be affected by the sorption of water vapor on/onto
the photocatalyst “active sites” causing less penetration of light and thus reducing the efficiency of photocatalytic decomposition of N2O. The presence of oxygen in the N2O mixture had only little effect to photocatalytic decomposition of N2O.
A Clinical Study of Early Intervention with Coralline Hydroxyapatite on Fresh Extraction Sockets
Authors: Yang Wei , Zhou Wenwei , Li Na , Huang Yanxi , Cheng Xuejiao , Shuai Binbin , Wen Bing
Published: May 2019

To clinically, histologically and radiologically evaluate the effects of early intervention on fresh extraction sockets, 30 patients were selected and assigned evenly into group A (blood clot) and group B (coralline hydroxyapatite). All participants underwent clinical examination. Oral
plaster casts and panoramic radiographs were undertaken before tooth extraction and at 3–4 months after socket grafting. A 6–8 mm sample of longitudinal bone core was obtained using a 2 mm diameter trephine 3–4 month's post-operatively. Group A had a greater decrease in interdental
papilla height, which was about 2–3 times more than that of group B (P >0.001). The buccal-lingual alveolar ridge width also absorbed more in group A (P >0.001). Radiological findings were similar. Group B had less new bone formation (P >0.001), and the residual rate was a little
high. There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of new bone formation rating grade. Clinical, histological and radiological tissue differences were observed between sockets with and without biomaterial grafts 3–4 months after surgery. This indicates that early
intervention of extraction sockets is clinically advantageous.
4-Sulfonylcalix[6]Arene Modified Fe3O4@Aspergillus Niger Biosorbents for Effective Removal of Uranium(VI) from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Li Le , Liao Qi , Cao Chen , Tang Shuangyang , Ding Dexin , Yuan Yali , Cheng Bin , Dai Zhongran , Ma Dandan , Lu Wei , Hou Shaoyan
Published: May 2019

A biosorbent, 4-sulfonylcalix[6]arene modified Fe3O4@Aspergillus Niger (MFSC), was successfully prepared through a two-step route for the effective removal of uranium (U(VI)) from aqueous solutions with high selectivity. The structure of MFSC was characterized
by FT-IR, SEM, XRD, TGA and VSM, respectively. The impacts of various experimental parameters were investigated in detail. The results indicated that the biosorption of U(VI) on MFSC was mainly attributed to the electrostatic attraction (91% within 8 hours for U(VI)). The adsorption kinetics
and adsorption isotherm of U(VI) were found to follow the pseudo second-order model and to be fitted by the Langmuir model, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The findings herein highlight the MFSC with high ability
for removal of U(VI) from aqueous solutions.
Three-Dimensional Holey-Graphene Architectures for Highly Sensitive Enzymatic Electrochemical Determination of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Jing Aihua , Liang Gaofeng , Shi Hao , Yuan Yixin , Zhan Quanxing , Feng Wenpo
Published: May 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) graphene with high specific surface area, excellent conductivity and designed porosity is essential for many practical applications. Herein, holey graphene oxide with nano pores was facilely prepared via a convenient mild defect-etching reaction and then fabricated
to 3D nanostructures via a reduction method. Based on the 3D architectures, a novel enzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor was successfully fabricated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction
(XRD) were used to characterize the 3D holey graphene oxide architectures (3DHGO). Cyclic voltammetry (CV) was used to evaluate the electrochemical performance of 3DHGO at glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Excellent electrocatalytic activity to the reduction of H2O2 was
observed, and a linear range of 5.0×10-8~5.0×10-5 M with a detection limit of 3.8×10-9 M was obtained. These results indicated that 3DHGO have potential as electrochemical biosensors.
Influence of Acid Treatment on the Loading and Release Behavior of Halloysite with 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole
Authors: Xing Xuteng , Wang Jihui , Li Qiushi , Hu Wenbin
Published: May 2019

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) are natural clay minerals with a tubular structure. They have attracted considerable attention as a potential nanocontainer due to their abundance, biocompatibility and nontoxicity. In this study, HNTs were handled with H2SO4 at 70 °C.
The morphology and structure of these acid-treated and original HNTs were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion spectrum (EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and their specific
surface area was determined by automatic gas adsorption analyzer. The loading efficiency and release behavior of acid-treated HNTs for 2-Mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) were investigated by UV-vis spectrophotometer. Results show that acid-treated HNTs retained their tubular structure, but their
internal diameter expanded by 35–37 nm after 32 h of acid treatment. After 72 h of acid treatment, HNTs can be transferred into amorphous silica nanotubes. Moreover, the specific surface area of these HNTs samples initially increased with the increase in acid treatment time but then
started to decrease after 32 h. The specific surface area of acid-treated HNTs at 32 h can reach 251.6 m2/g, which was much higher than that for untreated HNTs (55.3 m2/g). In addition, the loading capacity of acid-treated HNTs can reach 32.1% for HNTs-32, which is about
three times higher than that of original HNTs. The acid treatment has slight effect on the release behavior.
A Zero-Valent Pd/Fe Loaded and Nanofibrillated Cellulose-Reinforced Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogel for Dechlorination of 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol
Authors: Wan Xiao-Fang , Guo Congbao , Li You-Ming , Chai Xin-Sheng , Lin Ke , Chen Guang-Xue , Ali Atif
Published: May 2019

A full-cellulose derived hydrogel, composed of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC), was successfully manufactured and immobilized with Pd/Fe bimetallic nanoparticles for the dechlorination of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol. The NFC-reinforced CMC hydrogels with
or without loading of bimetallic nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray, and X-ray diffraction analyses. The effect of amounts of NFC on the loading capacity of Pd/Fe,
mechanical properties and specific Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface areas of NFC-reinforced CMC hydrogel was also investigated. The experimental results showed that Pd/Fe bimetallic nanoparticles were dispersed and fixed in the hydrogel matrix with the nanosize spherical shape. The hydrogel
would protect the Pd/Fe nanoparticles from oxidation, and thus providing long-term stability in comparison with only NFC-coated Pd/Fe nanoparticles. The hydrogel loaded with Pd/Fe nanoparticles, as a soft material catalytic system, was investigated to dechlorinate 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and
was found to be very effective.
Pillared Graphene Sheets with High-Rate Performance as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hu Xi , Wang De-Ping , Xia Xiao-Hong , Chen Yu-Xi , Liu Hong-Bo , Gu Zhi-Qiang
Published: May 2019

Pillared graphene composite (GP) is prepared by in situ polymerization and subsequent carbonization of graphene oxide (GO) and polyaniline (PANI) precursors. The interlayer spacing of GO layer can reach 1.418 nm with 200% increase compared with the original spacing of 0.706 nm by the
intercalation of aniline monomer through π–π conjugate and electrostatic interactions. After carbonization, the graphene composite is reinforced by the intercalated PANI-converted carbon pillars and also has a nitrogen-doped level of ca. 4.49 atom%. Electrochemical
characterization studies show that the GP composite exhibits a high reversible capacity of 653 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and an excellent rate capability (343 mAh g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1), which
are superior to graphene owing to the unique pillared and the nitrogen-doped structure.
Synthesis of TiO2-Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites Offering Highly Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Li Wufa , Yang Xiaohong , Fu Haitao , An Xizhong , Zhao Haiyang
Published: May 2019

Photogenerated electron–hole recombination significantly restricts the catalytic efficiency of titanium dioxide (TiO2). Various approaches have been developed to overcome this problem, yet it remains challenging. Recently, graphene modification of TiO2 has
been considered as an effective alternative to prevent electron–hole recombination and consequently enhance the photocatalytic performance of TiO2. This study reports an efficient but simple hydrothermal method utilizing titanium (IV) butoxide (TBT) and graphene oxide (GO)
to prepare TiO2-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposites under mild reaction conditions. This method possesses several advantageous features, including no requirement of high temperature for TiO2 crystallization and a one-step hydrothermal reaction for mild reduction
of GO without a reducing agent, which consequently makes the production of TiO2-RGO nanocomposites possible in a green and an efficient synthetic route. Moreover, the as-synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by numerous advanced techniques (SEM, TEM, BET, XRD, XPS, and UV-vis
spectroscopy). In particular, the photocatalytic activities of the synthesized TiO2-RGO nanocomposites were evaluated by degrading the organic molecules (methylene blue, MB), and it was found that the photocatalytic activity of TiO2-RGO nanocomposites is ~4.5 times higher
compared to that of pure TiO2. These findings would be useful for designing reduced graphene oxide-metal oxide hybrids with desirable functionalities in various applications for energy storage devices and environmental remediation.
Existence of Carbon Nanodots in Human Blood
Authors: Mandal Santi M. , Sinha Tridib K. , Katiyar Ajit K. , Das Subhayan , Mandal Mahitosh , Ghosh Sudipto
Published: May 2019

Presence of carbon nanostructures (dots of 2–3 nm of diameter) in human blood plasma have been identified for the first time. The observed particles are N-doped carbon dots having surface active oxygen functional groups. This functionalized carbonaceous nanostructure may have
been originated through catabolic processes of consumed foods and beverages. It may take part in different catalytic activities of biomolecules in cellular system necessary for normal physiological function which is unexplored yet.
Optimization of Super-Hydrophobic Property by Two-Step Surface Modification
Authors: Choi Jaewoong , Kwon Ji-Seon , Lee Chang-Hyun , Bae Kang , Sohn Sunyoung , Kim Hwa-Min
Published: May 2019

The super-hydrophobic surface can be used in anti-pollution, self-cleaning, and anti-corrosive properties. Two-step surface treatment process on Al-coated glass was conducted by surface etching using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and surface coating using lauric acid for super-hydrophobic
surface. The KOH-etched Al surface (1st etching) was changed to a hydrophilic property with a water contact angle (WCA) of 68° to 48°. On the other hand, the WCA of the etched Al surface was changed to about 153° with super-hydrophobic property when the lauric acid coating (2nd
coating) was applied on the KOH-etched Al surface for 30 minutes. We found that the hydrophobicity of Al surface was related to the roughness by surface modification as well as the Al film thickness by sputtering method.
Effect of La Doping on the Structure and Lithium Storage Performance of V2O5
Authors: Le Shangwang , Wen Shengshan , Zou Zhengguang , Li Yanwei
Published: May 2019

La-doped vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) was prepared by sol–gel method and subsequent heat treatment in air at 400 °C. The influence of La-doping on the crystalline structure, surface morphology, and lithium storage performance of V2O5
were investigated by XRD, SEM, CV, EIS, and discharge–charge tests. The results demonstrated that La doping did not change the phase structure of orthorhombic V2O5, but significantly refined the crystal grain of V2O5; La doping obviously improved
the cycling stability and rate capability of V2O5 due to the decreased electrode polarization, smaller electron-transfer resistance, and enhanced lithium diffusivity. For example, the La-doped V2O5 delivered a reversible capacity of 131 mAh/g after
50 cycles at a current density of 200 mA/g, while the pure V2O5 showed a reversible capacity of only 63 mAh/g under the same condition. At the high rate of 500 mA/g, the La-doped V2O5 still displayed a reversible capacity of 106 mAh/g, which is two
times higher than that (45 mAh/g) of pure V2O5 sample.
Effect of Organo-Shell Materials on Compatibility of the Hydrotalcite Flame Retardant in Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Authors: Du Jinze , Zeng Hongyan , Zhou Enguo , Feng Bo , Chen Chaorong , Xu Sheng , Hu Guo
Published: May 2019

The microcapsule nanoparticles were prepared by in-situ copolymerization of hydrotalcites (MAH) with the polymer (MF, PF, PS and PU) monomers, respectively, where the MF-wrapped MAH (MAH@MF) had the best monodispersity. The composites of the microcapsules and EVA were prepared
by incorporating the microcapsule nanoparticles into ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), respectively. To further understand the intrinsic correlation between microcapsule fillers and EVA matrix, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was introduced to qualitatively analyze the contribution of microcapsule
fillers on improving compatibility and mechanical properties of the EVA matrix. The compatibility of microcapsule nanoparticles with EVA matrix were detected in sequence through SEM, DSC and tensile strength tests. And the combustion, thermal behavior and flame retardance were also characterized
by TG analyses as well as LOI and UL-94 level. As a result, the MAH@MF filler had the best performances in improving the flame retardancy and mechanical properties among the microcapsule fillers, attributed to high compatibility of the MAH@MF and EVA matrix, which made uniform distribution
of the MAH@MF filler due to the reciprocity of triazine functional ring with vinyl acetate linkages.
Liquid Phase Esterification of Levulinic Acid into Ethyl Levulinate Over Sulphobenzylated Nanoporous Al-SBA-15 Catalyst
Authors: Kumaravel Sakthivel , Thiripuranthagan Sivakumar , Radhakrishnan Ramakrishnan , Erusappan Elangovan , Durai Mani , Devarajan Arulselvan , Mukannan Arivanandhan
Published: May 2019

Value added chemicals, fuels, and fuel additives can be obtained from cheap bio masses such as levulinic acid. Levulinic acid is the dehydration and hydrolysis products of pentoses and hexoses. The present work deals with the synthesis of sulphobenzylated Al-SBA-15, [SO3H-Bz-Al-SBA-15],
characterization by various analytical techniques such as XRD, BET, FT-IR, TGA, DTA, FE-SEM/EDS and HR-TEM/EDX techniques and evaluation of catalytic activity towards esterifi-cation of levulinic acid to ethyl levulinate under mild and non corrosive conditions. Sulphonation of the aromatic
ring of the benzyl group has been done in different amounts to get nanoporous x% SO3H-Bz-Al-SBA-15 catalysts where (x ═ 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08 and 0.10% w/w). Among them 0.08% SO3H-Bz-Al-SBA-15 catalyst showed the highest conversion of levulinic acid
(100%) with the highest selectivity towards ethyl levulinate (100%). Esterification of levulinic acid has been carried out with different primary alcohols and all of them yielded 100% selectivity towards alkyl levulinate. However conversion level of levulinic acid was found to be different
with different alcohols. Reaction conditions have been optimized. The results were compared with other supported catalysts and discussed.
Synthesis, Generic Dyeing of Nindigo Derivatives on Unmodified Polypropylene; First Time Application in Dyeing Technology
Authors: Penthala Raju , Kumar Rangaraju Satish , Kim Hyorim , Heo Gisu , Son Young-A
Published: May 2019

Hydrophobic nindigo dyes were designed and successfully synthesized from indigo by reacting with substituted anilines in a simple route. Four nindigo dyes were fruitfully analyzed by 1H NMR 13C NMR, electronic and mass spectrometry. Here, we have firstly introduced
these nindigo dyes into dyeing area for the dyeing of unmodified polypropylene fiber in aqueous medium. Dyeing experiments has been performed by using didodecyldimethylammonium bromide dispersing agent to make dye-dispersant complex for enhancing the dispersion of dyes. All the dyes were displayed
profound blue color hue on polypropylene. The dyeing efficiency and dye fixation order of the nindigo dyes are 3d > 3c ≥ 3b > 3a. Compound 3d having higher the hydrophobic character (logP ═ 7.04), so greater the dye ability on the polypropylene fiber and
exhibiting deep coloration.
Nanoparticle Size-Dependent Antibacterial Activities in Natural Minerals
Authors: Bardhan Souravi , Pal Kunal , Roy Shubham , Das Solanky , Chakraborty Abhijit , Karmakar Parimal , Basu Ruma , Das Sukhen
Published: May 2019

The size-dependent antibacterial activities of three minerals namely; alkali feldspar, calcite and stibnite are reported as examined individually against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus by evaluating minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) with colony counting
method, along with cell survivability assay (MTT). Each of these minerals were grinded into fine-size fractions—S1 (bulk), S2 (ball milled) and S3 (nanosized) and spectroscopically characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM)
and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity was found to be highest in the nanosized (S3) minerals. Interaction between bacteria and nanosized mineral samples produce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which might cause higher bacterial mortality. The penetration
due to nano-dimension is another significant observation as evidenced by bacterial FESEM micrographs. The current findings thus provide a pathway for future research on antibacterial products retrievable from widely available geological materials. The size dependant antibacterial activity
of naturally formed minerals is a new insight to reduce bacterial contamination in living systems.
Functionalization of Graphene and Its Influence on Mechanical Properties and Flame Retardancy of Jute/Poly(lactic acid) Composite
Authors: Yu Tao , Hu Changqing , Li Yan
Published: May 2019

In this work, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) was covalently grafted onto the surface of graphene to get modified graphene (G-DOPO) firstly. The mechanical properties and flame retardancy of jute/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composite with G-DOPO were studied. According
to Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), it was confirmed that DOPO was grafted on the surface of graphene successfully. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results demonstrated that the residue char of the composites increased
with the addition of G-DOPO. The total heat release (THR) of the composite was significantly reduced and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) increased after adding G-DOPO into the composite. Moreover, the mechanical properties results showed that the comprehensive effects of G-DOPO on the interface
enhancement and matrix toughness were found.
Thermolysis Synthesis of MoS2 Microrods for Noble Metal-Free Catalytic Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol
Authors: Li Qiuhao , Zhang Zhenwei , Chen Qiushuang , Li Yang , Qiao Xiuqing
Published: May 2019

MoS2 microrods constructed by ultrathin nanosheets have been synthesized, for the first time, by thermal decomposition of intermediate (NH4)2MoS4 crystals, which could not only provide the single-source for both the molybdenum and sulfur atoms,
but also served as the self-sacrificed template. The well-defined microstructure was characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, BET, respectively. The results indicated that MoS2 microrods with uniform morphology were assembled by defective ultrathin nanosheets. Moreover, these MoS2
microrods exhibit superior catalytic activity with the apparent rate constant (κapp) of 0.161 min−1 for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) by NaBH4. Encouragingly, the MoS2 microrods still show evident activity for the reduction of 4-NP
after five cycle tests, which has significant importance for the application in the reduction of 4-NP to p-aminophenol (4-AP). Also, this method can be extended to construct other kinds of metal dichalcogenides (TMDs).
Catalytic Reduction of Nitrobenzene Using Silver Nanoparticles Embedded Calcium Alginate Film
Authors: Supriya  , Basu Jayanta Kumar , Sengupta Sonali
Published: May 2019

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles embedded on calcium alginate film and the catalytic property of this film in the reduction of nitrobenzene with sodium borohydride are demonstrated in this work. Natural polymer alginate acts as effective reducing and stabilizing agent in synthesis
of silver nanoparticles. Effect of different parameters on the preparation of silver nanoparticles, such as, temperature, concentration of silver precursor and heating time was investigated. As-prepared silver nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron
microscopy, UV-Vis spectrometry, and atomic absorption spectrometry. Transmission electron microscopy analysis con-firms the formation of silver nanoparticles with particles size range of 3–19 nm and average particle size was found to be 10±4 nm. Effect of concentration of nitrobenzene
and sodium borohydride, catalyst loading and temperature on the catalytic reduction of nitrobenzene was studied. Reusability of catalyst was examined in this reduction reaction and the catalyst shows good activity up to 10th run.
A Cost Effective, Facile Hydrothermal Approach of Zinc Sulfide Decorated on Graphene Nanocomposite for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Balu Ranjith , Sagadevan Suresh , Dakshanamoorthy Arivuoli
Published: May 2019

A cost effective, facile hydrothermal method was used for the synthesis of ZnS/graphene (G) nano-composites. The XRD analysis clearly confirmed the presence of cubic sphalerite structure of ZnS which maintained its structure both in pure and composite materials matrix. The spectroscopic
investigations like FTIR and FT-Raman analysis, and optical studies of the ZnS and ZnS/G nanocomposite were also carried out. The thermal behaviour of ZnS and ZnS/G nanocomposite showed that ZnS/G have higher thermal stability. The SEM analysis showed the spherical nature of ZnS nanoparticles
covered over the surface of the graphene sheets and elemental composition of the GO, ZnS and ZnS/G nanocomposite was analyzed by EDAX analysis. The electrochemical properties of the prepared nanocomposite were investigated using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge discharge techniques.
The specific capacitance of ZnS and ZnS/G nanocomposite was found to be 129.67, 315.1, respectively, at 5 mV/s scan rate. The obtained results are compared with reported results and the results indicate the possibility that, the synthesized sample have a good potential to be used as an electrode
materials for high energy super capacitor applications.
Preferential and Enhanced Adsorption Ability of ZrO2 Nanoparticles for the Removal of Cationic, Anionic and Azo Dyes: Isotherm and Kinetic Studies
Authors: Saharan Priya , Bansal Pratibha , Chaudhary Ganga Ram , Sharma Ashok K.
Published: May 2019

Adsorption of Coomassie Brilliant Blue R-250, Congo Red and Acridine Orange from aqueous solution has been examined using ZrO2 nanoparticles, which proved to be a novel adsorbent. ZrO2 nanoparticles have been prepared by simple chemical precipitation method. The
characterization of ZrO2 nanoparticles has been carried out by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM and FESEM. ZrO2 nanoparticles were found tetragonal in structure, spherical in morphology, and illustrated constricted size window (8–12 nm). The findings depicted
that adsorbate removal on ZrO2 nanoparticles was affected significantly by change in adsorbent dose, pH and initial dye concentration w.r.t to contact time. The isotherms were well elaborated using Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The adsorptive kinetics was also investigated
with pseudo-second-order to evaluate constant corresponding to rate. Moreover, the ZrO2 nanoparticles along with adsorbed dyes were desorbed. The identities of recovered nanoparticles as well as the adsorbed dyes were found to be same.
Fabrication of Highly Flexible Copper Nanowires in Dual Surfactant Hydrothermal Process
Authors: Balela Mary Donnabelle L. , Orgen Salvacion B. , Tan Michael R.
Published: May 2019

Highly flexible Cu nanowires were successfully synthesized by a dual-surfactant hydrothermal process using oleylamine and oleic acid. The ultra-long Cu nanowires have a mean diameter as low as 82.3 nm and lengths greater than 300 μm. It was found that reaction time and oleylamine
concentration significantly influenced the morphology and phase composition of the Cu products. At a shorter reaction time (about 4 hours), pentagonal bipyramidal CU2O particles were precipitated together with the Cu nanowires. A longer reaction time of 12 hours resulted in smooth
and purely metallic Cu nanowires. It is possible that CU2O served as an intermediate phase to control the activity of free CU2+ ions in the solution. On the other hand, a higher oleylamine concentration generally produced longer Cu nanowires. Cu nanowires conducting electrode
with a sheet resistance of about 157.0 Ω/□ were fabricated. However, the optical transmittance of the electrode at 550 nm was very low (<20%) because of the agglomeration of the Cu nanowires. The addition of a small quantity of Ag nanowires in the Cu nanowire ink markedly improved
the appearance and electrical properties of the resulting electrode.
Gold Nanoparticle-Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy from Photosensitiser-Entrapped Ormosil Nanoparticles
Authors: Parul  , Roy Indrajit
Published: May 2019

Herein, we investigate the effect of the surface attachment of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on photosensitiser-entrapped organically modified silica (ormosil) nanoparticles for enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT). Photosensitiser methylene blue (MB)-entrapped ormosil nanoparticles of
three different diameters (30/55/80 nm) were synthesised, and AuNPs were attached to their surface. Subsequent light irradiation with a 630 nm laser resulted in the production of singlet oxygen (1O2), with different amounts depending on the diameter of the ormosil nanoparticle.
Enhancement in 1O2 production was observed upon the AuNP attachment on the ormosil surface. In vitro studies in pancreatic cancer (Panc-1) cells have demonstrated that cellular uptake and photodynamic cytotoxicity are also dependent on the size of ormosil nanoparticles
and AuNP attachment. These studies pave the way for designing ormosil nanoparticles with suitable size and surface attachment for PDT applications.
Solution-Processable Vertical Organic Light-Emitting Transistors (VOLETs) with Directly Deposited Silver Nanowires Intermediate Source Electrode
Authors: Sarjidan Mohd Arif Mohd , Shuhaimi Ahmad , Majid Wan Haliza Abd.
Published: May 2019

A simple spin-coating process for fabricating vertical organic light-emitting transistors (VOLETs) is realized by utilizing silver nanowire (AgNW) as a source electrode. The optical, electrical and morphological properties of the AgNW formation was initially optimized, prior VOFET fabrication.
A high molecular weight of poly[2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] MEH-PPV was used as an organic semiconductor layer in the VOFET in forming a multilayer structure by solution process. It was found that current density and luminance intensity of the VOLET can be modulated
by a small magnitude of gate voltage. The modulation process was induced by changing an injection barrier via gate voltage bias. A space-charge-limited current (SCLC) approach in determining transistor mobility has been introduced. This preliminary and fundamental work is beneficial towards
all-solution processing display devices.
Surface-Modified Carbon Nanotubes for Enhanced Ammonia Gas Sensitivity at Room Temperature
Authors: Vu Truong Duong , Cong Tu Nguyen , Huu Bac Luong , Duc Chien Nguyen , Huu Lam Nguyen
Published: May 2019

By electron beam evaporation, noble metals (Au, Co, Pt, and Ag) with 2 and 4 nm nominal thicknesses were coated onto multi-walled carbon nanotube layers. The metals were in the form of nanoparticles mounted onto the side walls of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to create a metal/CNT junction.
The CNTs were directly grown on patterned Pt-electrode alumina substrates through chemical vapor deposition to produce a resistivity-based ammonia gas sensor. The metallic surface-modified CNT-based sensors were found sensitive to NH3 gas at room temperature. Compared with pristine
CNT sensor, the response of Au/CNTs sensor increased slightly, whereas the responses of the Pt/CNTs, Co/CNTs, and Ag/CNTs increased by two, three, and more than four times, respectively.