Additional Energy Source Research Articles

Metode Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) pada Pemilihan Jenis Lampu Penerang Jalan Berbasis Photovoltaic

The simple additive weighting method is a decision support system method for various decision selection problems. Many research topics use the SAW method as a reference method in a decision support system. The street lighting control system is very useful for residents of the village of Karanganyar, Paiton, Probolinggo. This lighting is the main spotlight for residents' activities at the village office. Such as August competitions, routine monthly recitations, competitions to commemorate Isra' Mi'raj and the Prophet's birthday. There are many types of lamps in stores. The criteria for lamps are that they have high light illumination, long-lasting light, large bulb size, so that they can help village residents carry out activities at night. This lamp also uses photovoltaic as an additional source of electrical energy so it can save electricity costs to PLN. The solar panel measures 550 x 360 x 25 mm, 20 volts and has a peak power of 20 watts

Anhydrous microwave synthesis as efficient method for obtaining model advanced glycation end-products

IntroductionAdvanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are capable of stimulating oxidative stress and inflammation. This study investigates the synthesis of medium crosslinked AGEs (the most optimal form of AGEs because of soluble in water, used in many assays as markers) and their biochemical properties.MethodsOne of model protein–myoglobin from horse heart muscle (MB) and a chosen respective glycation factor – D-melibiose (mel), acrolein (ACR), D-glucose (glc), 4-hydroksynonenal (4HNE), trans-2-nonenal (T2N), methylglyoxal (MGO) – were subjected to high temperature water synthesis (HTWS) and high temperature microwave synthesis in anhydrous conditions (HTMS). The syntheses were deliberately carried out in two different conditions to check whether adding an additional energy source (microwaves) while lowering the temperature and shortening the reaction time would allow for more effective obtaining of medium-cross-linked AGEs, monitored with SDS-PAGE. Products were analyzed using fluorescence measurements, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting tests and electrophoretic mobility shift assay to evaluate their ability to activate nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer (NF-κB).ResultsMedium cross-linked AGEs were more efficiently obtained in HTMS. Fluorescence was high for MB-ACR, MB-T2N and MB-glc products. Anti-MAGE antibodies showed reactivity towards MB-mels of HTMS and HTWS, and the MB-4HNEs from HTMS. HTWS products, apart from MB-ACR, did not activate NF-κB, whereas MB-ACR, MB-4HNE, MB-mel, and MB-T2N products of HTMS strongly activated this factor that indicates their strong pro-inflammatory properties.ConclusionHTMS is a fast and efficient method of synthesizing medium cross-linked AGEs.

Metagenomic survey reveals hydrocarbon biodegradation potential of Canadian high Arctic beaches

BackgroundDecreasing sea ice coverage across the Arctic Ocean due to climate change is expected to increase shipping activity through previously inaccessible shipping routes, including the Northwest Passage (NWP). Changing weather conditions typically encountered in the Arctic will still pose a risk for ships which could lead to an accident and the uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons onto NWP shorelines. We performed a metagenomic survey to characterize the microbial communities of various NWP shorelines and to determine whether there is a metabolic potential for hydrocarbon degradation in these microbiomes.ResultsWe observed taxonomic and functional gene evidence supporting the potential of NWP beach microbes to degrade various types of hydrocarbons. The metagenomic and metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) taxonomy showed that known hydrocarbon-degrading taxa are present in these beaches. Additionally, we detected the presence of biomarker genes of aerobic and anaerobic degradation pathways of alkane and aromatic hydrocarbons along with complete degradation pathways for aerobic alkane degradation. Alkane degradation genes were present in all samples and were also more abundant (33.8 ± 34.5 hits per million genes, HPM) than their aromatic hydrocarbon counterparts (11.7 ± 12.3 HPM). Due to the ubiquity of MAGs from the genus Rhodococcus (23.8% of the MAGs), we compared our MAGs with Rhodococcus genomes from NWP isolates obtained using hydrocarbons as the carbon source to corroborate our results and to develop a pangenome of Arctic Rhodococcus. Our analysis revealed that the biodegradation of alkanes is part of the core pangenome of this genus. We also detected nitrogen and sulfur pathways as additional energy sources and electron donors as well as carbon pathways providing alternative carbon sources. These pathways occur in the absence of hydrocarbons allowing microbes to survive in these nutrient-poor beaches.ConclusionsOur metagenomic analyses detected the genetic potential for hydrocarbon biodegradation in these NWP shoreline microbiomes. Alkane metabolism was the most prevalent type of hydrocarbon degradation observed in these tidal beach ecosystems. Our results indicate that bioremediation could be used as a cleanup strategy, but the addition of adequate amounts of N and P fertilizers, should be considered to help bacteria overcome the oligotrophic nature of NWP shorelines.

Update on ketosis in dairy cattle with major emphasis on subclinical ketosis and abdominal adiposity.

The metabolic changes that occur during the early post-partum period in dairy cows can indeed lead to an imbalance in energy utilization, resulting in the production of excessive ketone bodies. This can have detrimental effects on the cow's health and milk production, leading to economic losses for dairy producers. The release of non-esterified fatty acids into the blood due to increased lipolysis is a key factor in the development of ketosis. Abdominal adiposity is a key factor on these outcomes in modern dairy cows. The redirection of energy and glucose towards lactose synthesis and milk yield leaves a deficit of gluconeogenic precursors, leading to the conversion of acetyl-CoA into ketone bodies instead of entering the Krebs cycle. These ketone bodies, including acetone, acetoacetate and β-hydroxybutyrate, accumulate in the blood and can be detected in various bodily fluids, such as urine, blood and milk, allowing for diagnostic testing. Prevention is indeed crucial in managing ketosis in dairy cattle. Supplementation of propylene glycol in the diet or the use of monensin, either in the diet or in the form of a slow-release bolus, can help prevent the occurrence of ketosis. However, avoiding high body condition (subcutaneous fat) and excessive abdominal adiposity during the dry period and parturition plus an adequate cow comfort are fundamental tasks to avoid ketosis and related disorders. These interventions aim to provide additional energy sources or enhance the cow's ability to utilize energy efficiently, thus reducing the reliance on excessive lipolysis and ketone body production.

Waste-to-Energy in the Circular Economy Transition and Development of Resource-Efficient Business Models

The consistent rise of the per capita waste generation rate has led to an escalation of waste quantities and the need to expand waste disposal methods. Efforts to develop clean and affordable energy systems are increasingly linked to waste-to-energy as part of the transition to a circular economy (CE). A resource-efficient waste-to-energy business model within a CE offers a variety of environmentally friendly waste management options based on their overall environmental impacts but also makes efficient use of available resources and technologies to convert different types of waste into energy, which helps reduce the adverse effects on the environment and create additional energy sources. This research aims to identify innovative waste management solutions to foster the implementation of CE and a more resource-efficient business model. The research methodology is based on qualitative and quantitative research, triangulation, material flow assessment, and systems dynamics. The value of this study is within the analysis of existing waste-to-energy plant case studies to identify a set of recommendations and appropriate business models for the countries that are at an early stage of evaluation of such facilities. This study found that waste-to-energy plants are critical to achieving the EU’s waste disposal targets by 2035. The findings highlight the importance of supporting mechanisms in the waste sector, such as structural funds, as the industry primarily focuses on societal health and safety and environmental protection, alongside resource efficiency and circularity potential.

Positively Charged Microparticle in Plasma with High-Energy Electron Beam

The processes of recharging, heating and evaporation of a positively charged microparticle (MP) introduced into the plasma with an injected high-energy electron beam are considered. It is assumed that the MP is charged outside the plasma and then introduced into the plasma by an accelerating field, where plasma and beam electrons hitting the MP heat and evaporate it. In addition to introducing the MP into the plasma, the positive MP charge provides an additional source of energy needed to heat and evaporate it. Using the OML theory, the system of current and energy balance equations was numerically solved and the conditions, under which the MP is heated to the boiling point of its substance, resulting in its intense evaporation, were determined. The influence of the energy of the electron beam on the process of MP recharging, as well as on the rate of its heating and evaporation, has been studied. An estimate of the particle entry velocity into the plasma has been made; the distances at which its recharging, heating to the boiling point and complete evaporation occur are determined. The work is carried out in order to creating plasma of a given elemental composition.

Should We Have Selfish Microgrids?

Substantial breakthroughs in renewable energy have been made in order to reduce energy-induced climate change. Yet our reliance on these sources is still insufficient. The UK’s objective of attaining net-zero emissions by 2050 is highly dependent on shifting to an electrical system that exclusively relies on zero-carbon generation. This entails integrating renewable energy sources, along with other low-carbon sources such as nuclear power, into the energy mix. However, the primary barrier to incorporating additional renewable energy sources into the grid is their intermittent and volatile nature. Therefore, there is a pressing need to stabilise the generation of renewables and manage this volatility by enhancing the balancing mechanism between microgrids and the national grid. This paper examines previous research on microgrids and smart grids, specifically from a supply chain perspective. It has been observed that the majority of the current literature focuses on documenting selfish microgrids that strive to optimise performance at the microgrid level. However, there is an alternative approach that draws inspiration from the field of supply chain management. Consequently, it is possible to enhance a microgrid’s performance within the broader system that it belongs to by reconsidering the timing and location of storage utilisation.

The pseudoenzyme β-amylase9 from Arabidopsis binds to and enhances the activity of α-amylase3: A possible mechanism to promote stress-induced starch degradation.

Starch accumulation in plant tissues provides an important carbon source at night and for regrowth after periods of dormancy and in times of stress. Both ɑ- and β-amylases (AMYs and BAMs, respectively) catalyze starch hydrolysis, but their functional roles are unclear. Moreover, the presence of catalytically inactive amylases that show starch excess phenotypes when deleted presents an interesting series of questions on how starch degradation is regulated. Plants lacking one of these catalytically inactive β-amylases, BAM9, were shown to have enhanced starch accumulation when combined with mutations in BAM1 and BAM3, the primary starch degrading BAMs in response to stress and at night, respectively. Importantly, BAM9 has been reported to be transcriptionally induced by stress through activation of SnRK1. Using yeast two-hybrid experiments, we identified the plastid-localized AMY3 as a potential interaction partner for BAM9. We found that BAM9 interacted with AMY3 in vitro and that BAM9 enhances AMY3 activity 3-fold. Modeling of the AMY3-BAM9 complex revealed a previously undescribed N-terminal structural feature in AMY3 that we call the alpha-alpha hairpin that could serve as a potential interaction site. Additionally, AMY3 lacking the alpha-alpha hairpin is unaffected by BAM9. Structural analysis of AMY3 showed that it can form a homodimer in solution and that BAM9 appears to replace one of the AMY3 monomers to form a heterodimer. Collectively these data suggest that BAM9 is a pseudoamylase that activates AMY3 in response to cellular stress, possibly facilitating starch degradation to provide an additional energy source for stress recovery.

Synthesis and characterization of hierarchical Ti3C2Tx MXene/graphitic-carbon nitride/activated carbon@luffa sponge composite for enhanced water desalination

In this study, advanced solar steam technologies are explored for their potential applications in seawater desalination and wastewater purification. We have developed a three-dimensional photothermal evaporator using MXene, luffa sponge (LS), graphitic-carbon nitride (GCN) and activated carbon (AC). The hierarchical Ti3C2Tx MXene/GCN/AC@LS composite photothermal evaporator exhibits superior thermostability, pH stability, and mechanical durability. The Ti3C2Tx MXene/GCN/AC@LS composite evaporator having a dimension of 1.25 cm displays excellent performance, leading to a high evaporation rate of 2.6 kg m−2h−1 and a high solar-thermal conversion efficiency of 96 % under 1 sun illumination. This high efficiency is attributed to the good light absorption by the Ti3C2Tx MXene/GCN/AC@LS composite coupled with a better wetting through the internal microchannels of the LS, which envisages a faster water delivery and evaporation of water. The Ti3C2Tx MXene/GCN/AC@LS composite captures the residual heat from the sidewall surface as an additional source of energy.

ТЕПЛОФИЗИЧЕСКАЯ МОДЕЛЬ И РЕЗУЛЬТАТЫ ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОГО ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ ГАЗИФИКАЦИИ ДРЕВЕСНЫХ И РАСТИТЕЛЬНЫХ ОТХОДОВ

The article compares the calculation results using the developed thermophysical composition model for the study of thermal gasification of wood and plant waste – renewable natural energy resources in a gas generator with the reverse combustion process and forced steam-air blast, which allows to achieve minimal formation of a by-product – resin. Based on the thermophysical model, the optimal consumption of solid fuel – wood and plant waste and oxidizer – atmospheric air is determined. The work can be used by technical engineers at enterprises in Russia and abroad for the environmentally friendly disposal of wood and plant waste in autonomous energy technology installations with combustion gas generators to generate thermal and electrical energy for the consumer. In particular, large volumes of wood and plant waste accumulate at wood processing and agricultural enterprises in the Tyumen region, which are an additional cheap source of energy.

Thermal effect of VIPV modules in refrigerated trucks

The integration of Photovoltaic (PV) modules within the outer structure of commercial transporters offers a great potential as an additional source of energy that can be utilized, for example, directly by the drive train of the vehicle, or by accessory equipment. However, to understand the benefits of such a system, the effect and relevance of some thermodynamic variables introduced by the Vehicle Integrated Photovoltaic (VIPV) system must be assessed. Particularly, the share of the solar irradiance that cannot be converted into electricity by the solar cell and is instead transformed into heat must be considered for certain applications such as the transportation of goods that require a controlled temperature. A one-dimensional thermal simulation model based on a Resistance-Capacitance methodology was created and validated experimentally. The model was used to predict the thermal behavior of the box-body of a truck for a representative year in three cities in Europe (Stockholm, Freiburg, and Seville), with a known Bill of Materials (BOM), and a set of given assumptions and constraints. It was found that, under the simulated conditions laid in this study, the additional heat generated by the PV modules that manages to go through the insulation material and reach the refrigerated cargo area, may raise the temperature of the contained air by an average of 0.36 °C, 0.5 °C, and 0.67 °C, respectively for the observed cities, and as much as 3.12 °C, 2.98 °C and 2.61 °C. When forced convection caused by the movement of the truck was applied into the model (with a constant wind speed of 50 km/h), the temperature of the solar cell dropped significantly, which, for the case of Freiburg, meant an increase in the contained air temperature of a maximum of 0.6 °C. A refrigeration system was subsequently considered for a target air temperature of 2 °C and −18 °C, and it was found that for the simulated scenarios, the harvested solar energy could easily offset the additional energetic demand caused by the PV system, and, in most cases, completely balance out the total annual demand of the chiller.

Primary and secondary source of energy in the superluminous supernova 2018ibb

We examined a possible pair-instability origin for the superluminous supernova 2018ibb. As the base model, we used a non-rotating stellar model with an initial mass of 250 at about 1/15 solar metallicity. We considered three versions of the model as input for radiative transfer simulations done with the stella and artis codes: with 25 of 56Ni, with 34 of 56Ni, and a chemically mixed case with 34 of 56Ni. We present light curves and spectra in comparison to the observed data of SN\,2018ibb, and conclude that the pair-instability supernova model with 34 of 56Ni explains the broadband light curves reasonably well between $-100$ and 250 days around the peak. Our synthetic spectra have many similarities with the observed spectra. The luminosity excess in the light curves and the blue-flux excess in the spectra can be explained by an additional energy source, which may be an interaction of the supernova ejecta with circumstellar matter. We discuss possible mechanisms that could have caused the circumstellar matter to be ejected in the decades before the pair-instability explosion.

Formation of long-period post-common-envelope binaries

Context. The vast majority of close binaries containing a compact object, including the progenitors of supernovae Ia and at least a substantial fraction of all accreting black holes in the Galaxy, form through common-envelope (CE) evolution. Despite this importance, we struggle to even understand the energy budget of CE evolution. For decades, observed long-period post-CE binaries have been interpreted as evidence of additional energies contributing during CE evolution. We have recently shown that this argument is based on simplified assumptions for all long-period post-CE binaries containing massive white dwarfs (WDs). The only remaining post-CE binary star that has been claimed to require contributions from additional energy sources to understand its formation is KOI 3278. Aims. Here, we address in detail the potential evolutionary history of KOI 3278. In particular, we investigate whether extra energy sources, such as recombination energy, are indeed required to explain its existence. Methods. We used the 1D stellar evolution code MESA to carry out binary evolution simulations and searched for potential formation pathways for KOI 3278 that are able to explain its observed properties. Results. We find that KOI 3278 can be explained if the WD progenitor filled its Roche lobe during a helium shell flash. In this case, the orbital period of KOI 3278 can be reproduced if the CE binding energy is calculated taking into account gravitational energy and thermodynamic internal energy. While the CE evolution that led to the formation of KOI 3278 must have been efficient – that is, most of the available orbital energy must have been used to unbind the CE – recombination energy is not required. Conclusions. We conclude that currently not a single observed post-CE binary requires one to assume that energy sources other than gravitational and thermodynamic energy are contributing to CE evolution. KOI 3278, however, remains an intriguing post-CE binary as, unlike its siblings, understanding its existence requires highly efficient CE ejection.

A statistical study for the impact of REMS and nuclear energy on carbon dioxide emissions reductions in G20 countries

Renewable and nuclear energy are seen as clean and eco-friendly substitutes for energy derived from fossil fuels. Which of the two is better, though, is still up for debate. In order to meet their combined global energy objectives and perhaps become carbon neutral or even carbon negative in the near future, a shift to additional renewable energy sources and nuclear energy will be necessary. One such method of improving energy usage through the implementation of a renewable energy management system (REMS) that will help attain a continuous and reliable source of energy, allowing for the proactive and effective management of renewable assets and dependable supply. This article investigates attitudes and opinions about nuclear and renewable energy production technologies by analyzing the dependence of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on non-renewable energy sources, renewable energy sources, and nuclear energy in the group of twenty (G20) countries, over the period from 2000 to 2021. This study employs advanced panel data econometric techniques in the presence of outliers in the G20 dataset, utilizing a robust random coefficient regression (RRCR) model via the M-estimation approach to study the impacts of non-renewable, renewable, and nuclear energy use with respect to CO2 emission mitigation in G20 countries. The overall conclusions of the econometric analysis confirm renewable and nuclear energy's importance in reducing CO2 emissions. We can conclude that the robust M-estimate approach is the best estimation technique for the G20 dataset, as compared to the classical estimation methods in the presence of outliers. The results show that for every percentage point of energy consumption that falls into the category of non-renewable energy, CO2 emissions will increase by 2.5737% for all G20 countries. Also, A 1% rise in renewable energy consumption reduces CO2 emissions by 1.0566% for all G20 countries. Similarly, a 1% increase in nuclear energy consumption will reduce CO2 emissions by 5.5703% for all G20 countries. Therefore, we can conclude that energy derived from renewable sources and nuclear energy greatly cuts CO2 emissions in all G20 countries. Total energy consumption, on the other hand, increases CO2 emissions in the long run. According to these findings, it is pivotal for the G20 countries to increase nuclear energy use and employ REMS to reduce the majority of G20 country's reliance on fossil fuels in order to minimize CO2 emissions. These findings are vital for understanding the relationship between these variables and the implementation of new or revised policies and initiatives supporting carbon neutrality at the G20 countries and national levels.

Facilitating polymorphic crystallization of HMX through ultrasound and trace additive assistance

Low sensitivity octahydro-1,3,4,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) has garnered significant attention from researchers due to its reduced shock sensitivity. However, the crystallization process poses challenges due to the high solidity and viscosity of the metastable α phase. Despite efforts to address this with additional energy sources like ultrasonic irradiation, prolonged exposure duration often results in small particle sizes, hindering the production of HMX with a consistent particle size distribution, thus limiting its applicability. To overcome these challenges, a method combining ultrasonic irradiation and trace H+ additive was proposed and investigated for their impact on the polymorphic transformation of HMX. The H+ additive was found to modify barriers, thus there was a lack of competitive driving force for the nucleation or growth of the metastable α form, thereby shortening the transformation pathway and duration. Moreover, the H+ additive significantly accelerated the nucleation rate of the β form (67.7 orders of magnitude faster with 0.10 wt ‰ H+) and the growth rate of β form HMX (5.8 orders of magnitude faster with 0.10 wt ‰ H+). While H+ additive alone was insufficient to induce spontaneous nucleation of the β form, combining it with short-duration ultrasonic irradiation further promoted β nucleation and shortened the polymorphic transformation duration (almost 20 orders of magnitude shorter). This rational approach led to effective control of the transformation process. The resulting low sensitivity HMX crystals exhibited varying mean sizes ranging from 20 to 340 μm, with purity exceeding 99.6 %, an apparent density greater than 1.8994 g/cm3, and few internal defects, fully meeting the requirements of low-sensitivity HMX, thus significantly expanding its potential applications. Our study sheds light on the mechanisms governing HMX polymorphic transformation in the presence of additives and ultrasonic irradiation, offering guidance for the rational control of this complex transformation.

A Case Study on Electric Vehicles as Nationwide Battery Storage to Meet Slovenia’s Final Energy Consumption with Solar Energy

Despite the global importance of solar energy, its variability requires energy storage to balance production during peak and off-peak periods. Moreover, the transport sector is undergoing a global transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. Since vehicles are idle 95% of the time, electric vehicle batteries, when connected to a grid, can effectively regulate intermittent photovoltaics using vehicle-to-grid technology. This conceptual study investigates the feasibility of a nationwide energy infrastructure that relies solely on solar energy, replacing other electricity sources, such as solid fuels, petroleum products, and natural gas, and utilizes electric vehicles as the sole battery energy storage system. This study aims to demonstrate the significant potential and benefits of such collaboration. The theoretical study combines historical data, assumptions, and conditions to build a simulation model that is modelled similarly as in previous conceptual studies of nationwide energy systems based solely on photovoltaics and electric vehicles, referenced in this article. In Slovenia, the total surface size suitable for the installation of photovoltaic systems is estimated to be 280 km2. The calculations show that a surface size of 217 km2 for photovoltaic systems can produce enough energy to cover Slovenia’s entire energy demand, Slovenia’s final energy consumption. However, simulations comparing photovoltaic production, total energy consumption (electricity, solid fuels, etc.), and the capacity of electric vehicle batteries show that a surface size of more than 500 km2 with photovoltaic systems and a 200% share of electric vehicles in the Slovenian vehicle fleet in 2022 will provide satisfactory results. Therefore, for a country like Slovenia, in addition to a solar power plant with a surface size of 280 km2, additional renewable energy sources are needed to cover the total energy demand, as well as additional battery energy storage systems in addition to electric vehicles.

РОЛЬ МИКРОБИОТЫ КИШЕЧНИКА И ОТДЕЛЬНЫХ ПРОДУКТОВ ИХ МЕТАБОЛИЗМА В РАЗВИТИИ ОЖИРЕНИЯ У ДЕТЕЙ

Abstract. Introduction. Obesity is one of the major problems in pediatrics worldwide. In recent years, the role of the gut microbiota in the development of various pathological conditions, including childhood obesity and its complications, has been increasingly discussed. We have presented the data characterizing changes in the gut microbiota in overweight patients and discussed their potential role in the development of this disease. Aim. To consider the key points of forming the intestinal microbiota in the neonatal period and the relationship of this process with the development of obesity in the subsequent years of the child’s life, the peculiarities of the microbiological landscape in obese patients, and the functional role of individual metabolites in its formation. Materials and Methods. A review of the scientific literature in the biomedical publication databases, such as PubMed, Medline, eLibrary, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library. Results and Discussion. Gut microbiota interact symbiotically with the human body, influencing metabolic activity and physiological characteristics. The microbiota formed at an early age are the basis of general health, but unfavorable influences on the processes of formation of the infant’s intestinal microbiota, such as non-physiological birth, artificial feeding, treatment with antibacterial drugs, can lead to the formation of pathological conditions. Metabolic processes in obese patients are particularly affected by qualitative changes in the intestinal microbiota and impaired synthesis of short-chain fatty acids. Excessive quantities of short-chain fatty acids produced by specific members of the gut microbiota represent an additional energy source and could lead to an energy imbalance, contributing to the development of obesity. Conclusions. Individual members of the gut microbiota can also be considered as predictors of obesity complications. Essential short-chain fatty acids are only a small part of the wide range of metabolites produced by gut bacteria, which also exert their influence on the metabolic and immune homeostasis of the human body.

A new azine-based ferrocenophane for azo dyes degradation in dark–ambient conditions

In a novel approach, 1,1′-bis(2,3-diazabuta-l,3‑dien)ferrocenophane (Fc-azine) synthesized by self-condensation of 1,1′-Ferrocenedicarboxaldehyde hydrazone (FcDH) with the aid of Zn(OAc)2·2H2O or acetic acid at 120 °C under high pressure. Fc-azine as an insoluble compound was fully characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analyses (BET), powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) and single crystal x-ray diffraction. The narrow band gap (Eg = 1.93 eV) and the presence of ferrocene and azine functional groups encouraged us to use Fc-azine as an advanced oxidation process (AOP) catalyst. Interestingly, the addition of Fc-azine (1 g L-1) to aqueous solutions of 50 ppm of Congo red (CR) and 10 ppm of methyl orange (MO) led to the fast degradation of CR (over 80 % in 5 min) and the slow degradation of MO (98 % in 48 h) in the dark, without additional energy sources or chemical reagents. It was found that Fc-azine can degrade CR in six cycles with high efficiency (over 80 %). CR degradation by Fc-azine can be performed in acid and basic environments (pH= 3–9), and effective MO degradation happens in slightly acidic and natural environments (pH= 5–7). Possible adsorption, reactive oxygen species production (·OH, O2·−), and the mechanism of CR and MO degradation were also studied.

Stripped-envelope supernova light curves argue for central engine activity.

The luminosity of stripped-envelope supernovae, a common type of stellar explosion, is believed to be mainly driven by the radioactive decay of the nickel synthesized in the explosion and carried in its ejecta. Additional possible energy sources have been previously suggested1-5, in which the two most observationally based results have been from a comparison of the observed time-weighted luminosity with the inferred radioactive power1 and from a comparison of the light curves with particular theoretical models3. However, the former result1 was not statistically significant, and the latter3 is highly dependent on the specific models assumed. Here we analyse the energy budget of a sample of 54 well-observed stripped-envelope supernovae of all sub-types and present statistically significant, largely model-independent, observational evidence for a non-radioactive power source in most of them (and possibly in all). We consider various energy sources, or alternatively, plausible systematic errors, that could drive this result, and conclude that the most likely option is the existence of a long-lived central engine, operating over ≈103-106 s after the explosion. We infer, from the observations, constraints on the engine properties. If, for example, the central engine is a magnetized neutron star, then the initial magnetic field is ≈1015 G and the initial rotation period is 1-100 ms, suggesting that stripped-envelope supernovae may constitute the formation events of the objects known as magnetars.

Potentiometric sensing of ibuprofen over ferric oxide doped chitosan grafted polypyrrole-based electrode

The present work demonstrates the correlation between structure, properties, and self-sensing protocols of in situ prepared ferric oxide doped grafted copolymer composite, comprised of ferric oxide, chitosan, and polypyrrole (α-Fe2O3-en-CHIT-g-PPy) for residual ibuprofen present in natural and artificial samples. The chemical structure, morphology, functionality, and physio-mechanical properties of the composite were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), Raman spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Two probe method, and standard ASTM techniques to explore sensing nature. The results confirm the evolution of axially aligned structure against 110 planes of α-Fe2O3 and chemically functionalized expanded polymer matrix during in-situ chemical polymerization of pyrrole, with better porosity, interactivity, and improved electrical conductivity i.e. 7.32 × 10−3 S cm−1. Further, a thin film of prepared composite coated on an ITO glass plate was explored for potentiometric sensing of ibuprofen (IBU) present in artificial and natural samples without the use of any additional energy sources. The observed sensing parameters are the sensing ranging 0.5 μM to 100.0 μM, sensitivity 2.5081 mV μM−1 cm−2, response time 50 s, recovery time 10 s, and stability for 60 days. The sensing mechanism of the IBU sensor and effective charge transfer in the electrode was also discussed based on changes in IR spectra of the electrode recorded before and after sensing due to surface oxidation of IBU due to the presence of iron and doping effect of iron oxide in the composite.