Centrifugation Conditions Research Articles

An Overview of Pre-Analytical Factors Impacting Metabolomics Analyses of Blood Samples.

Discrepant sample processing remains a significant challenge within blood metabolomics research, introducing non-biological variation into the measured metabolome and biasing downstream results. Inconsistency during the pre-analytical phase can influence experimental processes, producing metabolome measurements that are non-representative of in vivo composition. To minimize variation, there is a need to create and adhere to standardized pre-analytical protocols for blood samples intended for use in metabolomics analyses. This will allow for reliable and reproducible findings within blood metabolomics research. In this review article, we provide an overview of the existing literature pertaining to pre-analytical factors that influence blood metabolite measurements. Pre-analytical factors including blood tube selection, pre- and post-processing time and temperature conditions, centrifugation conditions, freeze-thaw cycles, and long-term storage conditions are specifically discussed, with recommendations provided for best practices at each stage.

Pore-Fracture System Distribution Heterogeneity by Using the T2 Spectral Curve under a Centrifugal State

In this paper, 12 sandstone samples are collected from the Taiyuan Formation in Qinshui Basin, and sample types using the T2 spectral under LF-NMR saturation and centrifugation conditions are classified. Moreover, single and multifractal models were used to calculate fractal parameters of saturated and centrifugal T2 spectra, and the correlation between different fractal parameters, pore structure, T2cutoff value, and pore permeability parameters was studied. The results are as follows. (1) According to the T2 spectrum curves under centrifugation and saturation conditions, all the samples can be divided into three types. There are significant differences in the uniform pore size distribution. However, the non-uniformity of small pore distribution in type B samples is stronger than that of other types, while heterogeneity of large pore distribution is weaker than that of different types. The centrifugal T2 spectrum curve exhibits both single-fold and multifractal characteristics. The results of a single fractal by using a centrifugal T2 spectrum are consistent with those of a saturated T2 spectrum, indicating that single fractal features by using centrifugal and saturated T2 spectra are consistent. Unlike the single fractal parameters, the correlation between the saturation and centrifugal T2 spectrum’s multifractal parameters is weak. This suggests that the physical significance conveyed by the centrifugal T2 spectrum’s multifractal parameters differs from that of the saturated T2 spectrum.

Preparation Method and Quality Evaluation of Novel Frozen Human Platelets

To optimize the technical parameters related to the preparation of novel frozen human platelets and formulate corresponding protocol for its preparation. Novel frozen human platelets were prepared with O-type bagged platelet-rich plasma (PRP), the key technical parameters (DMSO addition, incubation time, centrifugation conditions, etc.) of the preparation process were optimized, and the quality of the frozen platelets was evaluated by routine blood tests, apoptosis rate, platelet activation rate and surface protein expression level. In the preparation protocol of novel frozen human platelets, the operation of centrifugation to remove supernatant was adjusted to before the procedure of platelets freezing, and the effect of centrifugation on platelets was minimal when the centrifugation condition was 800×g for 8 min. In addition, platelets incubated with DMSO for 30 min before centrifugation exhibited better quality after freezing and thawing. The indexes of novel frozen human platelets prepared with this protocol remained stable after long-term cryopreservation. The preparation technique of novel frozen human platelets was established and the protocol was formulated. It was also confirmed that the quality of frozen platelets could be improved by incubating platelets with DMSO for 30 min and then centrifuging them at 800×g for 8 min in the preparation of novel frozen human platelets.

Functionalized Blood Small Extracellular Vesicles with Polydopamine Nanoparticles for Chemo-Thermal Therapy.

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) hold considerable promise for drug delivery due to their natural origin and inherent qualities. However, their clinical application is impeded by two main challenges: low yield and potential side effects. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain substantial quantities of sEVs that adhere to rigorous biosafety standards to ensure successful translation into clinical practice. To address this need, we propose exploring optimized methods for sourcing and separating sEVs, taking inspiration from clinical blood transfusion. In particular, we have identified blood sEVs as a viable alternative and developed a novel separation technique for their isolation. Our approach involves incubating dopamine solution with serum, resulting in the formation of polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles on the surface of blood sEVs. These nanoparticles have minimal impact on blood sEVs, facilitating their easy separation under standard centrifugal conditions with high purity. This innovative technique enables the development of nanocarriers using blood sEVs with efficient drug-loading capabilities and enhanced pharmacokinetics. Additionally, the incorporation of PDA nanoparticles imparts a photothermal effect to the nanomedicines, enabling the integration of chemotherapy and photothermal therapy. Moreover, the photothermal effect holds the potential to facilitate the membrane fusion of sEVs and cells. In summary, our straightforward surface functionalization technique utilizing PDA effectively isolates blood sEVs and enables chemo-thermal tumor therapy. This approach significantly enhances the feasibility of translating sEV-based nanomedicines into clinical applications.

Sedimentation of large, soluble proteins up to 140kDa for 1H-detected MAS NMR and 13C DNP NMR - practical aspects.

Solution NMR is typically applied to biological systems with molecular weights < 40kDa whereas magic-angle-spinning (MAS) solid-state NMR traditionally targets very large, oligomeric proteins and complexes exceeding 500kDa in mass, including fibrils and crystalline protein preparations. Here, we propose that the gap between these size regimes can be filled by the approach presented that enables investigation of large, soluble and fully protonated proteins in the range of 40-140kDa. As a key step, ultracentrifugation produces a highly concentrated, gel-like state, resembling a dense phase in spontaneous liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). By means of three examples, a Sulfolobus acidocaldarius bifurcating electron transfer flavoprotein (SaETF), tryptophan synthases from Salmonella typhimurium (StTS) and their dimeric β-subunits from Pyrococcus furiosus (PfTrpB), we show that such samples yield well-resolved proton-detected 2D and 3D NMR spectra at 100kHz MAS without heterogeneous broadening, similar to diluted liquids. Herein, we provide practical guidance on centrifugation conditions and tools, sample behavior, and line widths expected. We demonstrate that the observed chemical shifts correspond to those obtained from µM/low mM solutions or crystalline samples, indicating structural integrity. Nitrogen line widths as low as 20-30Hz are observed. The presented approach is advantageous for proteins or nucleic acids that cannot be deuterated due to the expression system used, or where relevant protons cannot be re-incorporated after expression in deuterated medium, and it circumvents crystallization. Importantly, it allows the use of low-glycerol buffers in dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) NMR of proteins as demonstrated with the cyanobacterial phytochrome Cph1.

Effects of aeration and centrifugation conditions on omega-3 fatty acid production by the mixotrophic dinoflagellate Gymnodinium smaydae in a semi-continuous cultivation system on a pilot scale

High production and efficient harvesting of microalgae containing high omega-3 levels are critical concerns for industrial use. Aeration can elevate production of some microalgae by providing CO2 and O2. However, it may lower the production of others by generating shear stress, causing severe cell damage. The mixotrophic dinoflagellate Gymnodinium smaydae is a new, promising microalga for omega-3 fatty acid production owing to its high docosahexaenoic acid content, and determining optimal conditions and methods for high omega-3 fatty acid production and efficient harvest using G. smaydae is crucial for its commercial utilization. Therefore, to determine whether continuous aeration is required, we measured densities of G. smaydae and the dinoflagellate prey Heterocapsa rotundata in a 100-L semi-continuous cultivation system under no aeration and continuous aeration conditions daily for 9 days. Furthermore, to determine the optimal conditions for harvesting through centrifugation, different rotational speeds of the continuous centrifuge and different flow rates of the pump injecting G. smaydae + H. rotundata cells into the centrifuge were tested. Under continuous aeration, G. smaydaeproduction gradually decreased; however, without aeration, the production remained stable. Harvesting efficiency and the dry weights of omega-3 fatty acids of G. smaydae + H. rotundata cells at a rotational speed of 16,000 rpm were significantly higher than those at 2,000–8,000 rpm. However, these parameters did not significantly differ at injection pump flow rates of 1.0–4.0 L min-1. The results of the present study provide a basis for optimized production and harvest conditions for G. smaydae and other microalgae.

Effects of blood-processing protocols on cell-free DNA fragmentomics in plasma: Comparisons of one- and two-step centrifugations

BackgroundCell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragmentomic characteristics are promising analytes with abundant physiological signals for non-invasive disease diagnosis and monitoring. Previous studies on plasma cfDNA fragmentomics commonly employed a two-step centrifugation process for removing cell debris, involving a low-speed centrifugation followed by a high-speed centrifugation. However, the effects of centrifugation conditions on the analysis of cfDNA fragmentome remain uncertain. MethodsWe collected blood samples from 10 healthy individuals and divided each sample into two aliquots for plasma preparation with one- and two-step centrifugation processes. We performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the plasma cfDNA in the two groups and comprehensively compared the cfDNA fragmentomic features. Additionally, we reanalyzed the fragmentomic features of cfDNA from 16 healthy individuals and 16 COVID-19 patients, processed through one- and two-step centrifugation in our previous study, to investigate the impact of centrifugation on disease signals. ResultsOur results showed that there were no significant differences observed in the characteristics of nuclear cfDNA, including size, motif diversity score (MDS) of end motifs, and genome distribution, between plasma samples treated with one- and two-step centrifugation. The cfDNA size shortening in COVID-19 patients was observed in plasma samples with one- and two-step centrifugation methods. However, we observed a significantly higher relative abundance and longer size of cell-free mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the one-step samples compared to the two-step samples. This difference in mtDNA caused by the one- and two-step centrifugation methods surpasses the pathological difference between COVID-19 patients and healthy individuals. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that one-step low-speed centrifugation is a simple and potentially suitable method for analyzing nuclear cfDNA fragmentation characteristics. These results offer valuable guidance for cfDNA research in various clinical scenarios.

Predicting pump-turbine characteristic curves by theoretical models based on runner geometry parameters

The characteristic curve of a pump-turbine is the essential data for calculating the hydraulic transient processes of a pumped storage power station. However, this curve is often unavailable during the preliminary design stage of pumped storage power stations. The shape of the characteristic curve directly influences the transient guarantee parameters. To date, adjusting the runner geometry to control the characteristic curve's shape for improving hydraulic transients remains a challenging issue. This paper proposes a model for predicting the characteristic curve that correlates its shape with the runner's geometric parameters. Considering the bidirectional flow in pump-turbines, two sets of governing equations are derived separately for the centripetal and centrifugal flow conditions. The governing equations for the unit discharge curve and the unit torque curve are constructed based on the energy equation and torque equation, respectively. Each term in these equations is subsequently organized into the expressions involving the runner's geometric parameters and unit parameters. To make the equations solvable, several sets of feature points are introduced. Based on the approach to obtain the feature points, an experiment/CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics)-based prediction method and a statistics-based prediction method are proposed. Verifications using manufacturer-measured curves show that the experiment/CFD-based method is well-suited for model test acceleration and characteristic curve repair due to its higher prediction accuracy and availability, while the statistics-based method is more suitable for borrowing similar curve data during the power plant's preliminary design phase or rapidly predicting the corresponding characteristic curves during runner design. This work establishes a theoretical basis for improving hydraulic transient guarantee parameters by runner design optimization.

Suppression of essential oil biosynthesis in sweet basil cotyledons under hypergravity conditions

The mechanism through which gravity influences the biosynthesis of essential oils in herbs is an important issue for plant and space biology. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) seedlings were cultivated under centrifugal hypergravity conditions at 100 g in the light, and the growth of cotyledons, development of glandular hairs, and biosynthesis of essential oils were analyzed. The area and fresh weight of the cotyledons increased by similar amounts irrespective of the gravitational conditions. On the abaxial surface of the cotyledons, glandular hairs, where essential oils are synthesized and stored, developed from those with single-cell heads to those with four-cell heads; however, hypergravity did not affect this development. The main components, methyl eugenol and 1,8-cineole, in the essential oils of cotyledons were lower in cotyledons grown under hypergravity conditions. The gene expression of enzymes in the phenylpropanoid pathway involved in the synthesis of methyl eugenol, such as phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and eugenol O-methyltransferase (EOMT), was downregulated by hypergravity. Hypergravity also decreased the gene expression of enzymes in the 2C-methyl-d-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway involved in the synthesis of 1,8-cineole, such as 1-deoxy-d-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (DXS) and 1,8-cineole synthase (CINS). These results indicate that hypergravity without affecting the development of glandular hairs, decreases the expression of genes related to the biosynthesis of methyl eugenol and 1,8-cineole, which may cause a decrease in the amounts of both essential oils in sweet basil cotyledons.

Fabrication and characterization of anthocyanin-loaded double Pickering emulsions stabilized by β-cyclodextrin

Anthocyanins, one of the important water-soluble pigments, are sensitive to environmental factors, which limits the application of anthocyanins in food field. In order to overcome this limitation, double Pickering emulsions stabilized by β-cyclodextrin were developed. The optimum preparation conditions of the emulsions were determined firstly and the performance and structure of emulsions were investigated. Results showed that the optimum preparation conditions of emulsions were the ratio of (W1/O): W2 = 6:4 and 4 % β-cyclodextrin concentration. Optical microscope and confocal laser scanning microscope results confirmed that β-cyclodextrin adsorbed onto the surface of droplets forming stable double Pickering emulsions structure. In vitro gastrointestinal digestion experiments proved that double Pickering emulsions played a controlled-release effect in the small intestine. Rheological analysis proved that the emulsions exhibited elastic properties and demonstrated shear thinning behavior. The emulsions showed excellent stability under centrifugation and thermal conditions. These findings will promote anthocyanins’ application in daily diet.

Handheld Sonographic Cardiovascular Imaging Under Hypergravity Conditions.

INTRODUCTION: Real-time cardiovascular imaging during hypergravity exposure has been historically limited by technological and physical challenges. Previous efforts at sonographic hypergravity imaging have used fixed ultrasound probes; the use of hand-held ultrasound, particularly performed by minimally trained laypersons, has been less explored. Here we will discuss handheld sonography to self-visualize carotid vascular and cardiac changes during hypergravity.METHODS: Three subjects with variable ultrasound experience ranging from no familiarity to extensive clinical experience used handheld ultrasound at rest and under stepwise +Gz hypergravity exposures (maximum +3.5 Gz) to visualize carotid vascular changes. Subxiphoid cardiac ultrasound was obtained by the most experienced subject. Subjects had variable prior hypergravity experience; all were trained in anti-G straining techniques. Sonographically inexperienced subjects underwent a brief (< 5 min) familiarization with the ultrasound probe, user interface, and desirable viewing window immediately prior to centrifugation; real-time coaching was provided. Ultrasound images were correlated to self-reported symptoms and hemodynamic data.RESULTS: Handheld ultrasound performed as desired; all subjects were successful at obtaining ultrasound images with adequate capture of windows of interest. Subxiphoid imaging efforts were limited by probe overheating and associated with variable quality of imaging due to probe displacement from straining techniques; the subject noted transient, mild discomfort and ecchymosis after imaging in the subxiphoid region.DISCUSSION: Even individuals with minimal or no ultrasound experience successfully obtained usable images under centrifuge conditions. While there were some limitations, this technical demonstration provides initial validation of handheld sonography as an available tool for real-time cardiovascular imaging in a hypergravity environment.Blue RS, Ong KM. Handheld sonographic cardiovascular imaging under hypergravity conditions. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(3):158-164.

Cell-Free Microbial DNA Analysis: Effects of Blood Plasma and Serum Quantity, Biobanking Protocols, and Isolation Kits.

Recent studies highlight the presence of bacterial sequences in the human blood, suggesting potential clinical significance for circulating microbial signatures. These sequences could presumably serve in the diagnosis, prediction, or monitoring of various health conditions. Ensuring the similarity of samples before bacterial analysis is crucial, especially when combining samples from different biobanks prepared under varying conditions (such as different DNA extraction kits, centrifugation conditions, blood collection tubes, etc.). In this study, we aimed to analyze the impact of different sample collection and nucleic acid extraction criteria (blood collection tube, centrifugation, input volume, and DNA extraction kit) on circulating bacterial composition. Blood samples from four healthy individuals were collected into three different sample collection tubes: K2EDTA plasma tube, sodium citrate plasma tube, and gel tube for blood serum. Tubes were centrifugated at standard and double centrifugation conditions. DNA extraction was performed using 100, 200, and 500 μL plasma/serum input volumes. DNA extraction was performed using three different isolation kits: Norgen plasma/serum cell-free circulating DNA purification micro kit, Applied Biosystems MagMAX cell-free DNA isolation kit, and Qiagen QIAamp MinElute cell-free circulating DNA mini kit. All samples were subjected to 16S rRNA V1-V2 library preparation and sequencing. In total, 216 DNA and 18 water control samples were included in the study. According to PERMANOVA, PCoA, Mann-Whitney, and FDR tests the effect of the DNA extraction kit on the microbiota composition was the greatest, whereas the type of blood collection tube, centrifugation type, and sample input volume for the extraction had minor effects. Samples extracted with the Norgen DNA extraction kit were enriched with Gram-negative bacteria, whereas samples extracted with the Qiagen and MagMAX kits were enriched with Gram-positive bacteria. Bacterial profiles of samples prepared with the Qiagen and MagMAX DNA extraction kits were more similar, whereas samples prepared with the Norgen DNA extraction kit were significantly different from other groups.

Study of centrifuge conditions for preparing rabbit leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma by single centrifugation

To explore the best centrifuge condition for preparing rabbit leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) by using single centrifugation method. Sixteen healthy New Zealand rabbits, aged 3-4 months, were utilized in the investigation. A total of 15 mL anticoagulated blood was extracted from the central ear artery of each rabbit, with a repeat of the blood collection procedure after 1 and 2 months. The obtained blood specimens were individually subjected to centrifugation at a radius of 16.7 cm and speeds of 1 200, 1 300, 1 400, and 1 500 r/min (equivalent to centrifugal forces of 269× g, 315× g, 365× g, and 420× g) for durations of 2, 3, 4, and 5 minutes, resulting in a total of 16 groups. Following centrifugation, collect plasma from each group to a distance of 1.5 mL from the separation plane. The volumes, platelet enrichment coefficient, and platelet recovery rates of LP-PRP in each group, under varying centrifugation conditions, were methodically computed and subsequently compared. The volume of LP-PRP obtained under all centrifugation conditions ranged from 1.8 to 7.6 mL. At a consistent centrifugal speed, an extension of centrifugation time leaded to a significant increase in the volume of LP-PRP, accompanied by a declining trend in the platelet enrichment coefficient of LP-PRP. When centrifuged for 2 minutes, the volume of LP-PRP at speeds of 1 200 and 1 300 r/min was less than 2.0 mL, while the volume of LP-PRP obtained under other conditions was more than 2.0 mL. When centrifuged for 4 and 5 minutes, the volume of LP-PRP obtained at each speed was more than 4 mL. LP-PRP with a platelet enrichment coefficient more than 2.0 could be prepared by centrifuging at 1 200 r/min for each time group and 1 300 r/min for 2 and 3 minutes, and the highest LP-PRP platelet enrichment coefficient could be obtained by centrifugation for 2 minutes at a speed of 1 200 r/min. The platelet recovery rates of LP-PRP obtained by centrifugation at 1 200 r/min for 4 and 5 minutes, as well as centrifugation at 1 400 r/min for 5 minutes, were both greater than 60%. There was no significant difference between the groups when centrifuged at 1 200 r/min for 4 and 5 minutes ( P>0.05). In the process of preparing rabbit LP-PRP using a single centrifugation method, collecting 15 mL of blood and centrifuging at a radius of 16.7 cm and speed of 1 200 r/min for 4 minutes can prepare LP-PRP with a volume exceeding 2.0 mL, platelet enrichment coefficient exceeding 2.0, and platelet recovery rate exceeding 60%. This centrifugal condition can achieve the optimal LP-PRP action parameters in the shortest possible time.

Approaching Effective Differential Centrifugal Fractionation by Combining Image Analysis with Analytical Ultracentrifugation.

Centrifugation is one of the most commonly used methods for separation in biology and chemistry. However, effective fractionation is not always easy to obtain, as preparative centrifuge experiments are mostly conducted in an empirical way, even when it is guided by the quantitative results from analytical ultracentrifuge (AUC). Very few works have been performed to enhance the fractionation resolution of the differential centrifugation method in a swing-out rotor. This is primarily due to the absence of a characterization tool for sedimentation in the preparative centrifuge. In this study, we utilized image analysis to map the particle concentration distribution throughout the preparative centrifuge tube, revealing an unexpected and abnormal sedimentation process. By characterizing the sedimentation coefficient distributions of the fractionated product via AUC, we demonstrated that the overall sedimentation efficiency in a swing-out preparative centrifuge was significantly reduced. Furthermore, effective fractionation was confined to the intermediate phase of the entire sedimentation process. We propose that the mechanism here is a combination of the inverse Boycott effect and droplet sedimentation. The actual sedimentation process within a preparative centrifuge can be described by modifying the Lamm equation phenomenologically, which simply results in an effective sedimentation coefficient. Our work builds a foundation for determining the optimal preparative centrifugation conditions for various systems.

Inertial and kinematic demands of isolated pile-supported wharves in liquefiable soils: Centrifuge tests

Pile-supported wharves in liquefiable soils are prone to severe damage during earthquakes. This study employs seismic isolation techniques to adapt for wharf construction, evaluating their seismic performance under lateral ground deformation due to liquefaction. Experimental and numerical analyses are necessary for confirming the efficiency of the isolation in decreasing the requirements for pile-supported wharves. The study initially tests two pile-supported wharves under geotechnical centrifuge conditions, one reinforced by isolation bearings and the other without. The objective is to simulate the force characteristics of isolated pile-supported wharves in liquefiable soils and to analyze the impact of isolation on reducing the seismic response of these wharves. Subsequent analysis delves into the interaction between inertia and kinematics for two types of pile-supported wharves, providing crucial insights. The development of plastic hinges for two kinds of pile-supported wharves under inertia and kinematics is also analyzed. Quantifiable thresholds are established to study the influence of isolation on the resistance of wharves to seismic disruptions, thus preventing pile-supported wharves damage.

Development and Application of Temperature-Induced Dispersive Solid Phase Extraction for Preconcentration and Determination of Cobalt Ions in Water and Food Samples

This work describes the development of temperature-induced dispersive solid phase extraction (TI-DSPE) for the isolation and measurement of cobalt in food and water samples. The concentration of the preconcentrated cobalt ions was determined using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). In TI-DSPE, the dispersion of the sorbent occurs by varying the temperature. The cobalt was complexed with 1-nitroso-2-naphthol and extracted with finely dispersed benzoic acid particles at 60 °C. The extraction efficiencies parameters were assessed and optimized, such as the mass of benzoic acid, dissolution temperature, solution pH, centrifugation conditions, and ionic strength. In the optimum conditions, the analytical curve was linear from 2.0 to 150.0 µg L−1, the limits of detection and quantification were 0.55 and 1.83 µg L−1 respectively, and the preconcentration factor was 50. Ten repeated measurements at 50.0 µg L−1 yielded a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 2.6% (n = 10). High extraction recoveries (96.5–102.5%) were obtained from the analysis of real samples. The validity of the developed procedure was confirmed by analyses of certified reference materials (QC-1187 and SPS-SW2). The results demonstrated that the developed method was simple, efficient, and cost-effective.

Superconducting NbC nanoparticles synthesized by laser ablation in a liquid.

Niobium carbide (NbC) is a high-field type II superconductor with a critical temperature (TC) of 11.1 K, slightly exceeding that of pure Nb (TC = 9 K). The reduction of NbC to the nanoparticle scale leads to significant changes in its critical field and/or the superconducting temperature. This study presents findings on superconducting NbC nanoparticles with TC ≃ 10 K produced through laser ablation in acetone, where different conditions of laser fluence and centrifugation were studied. Analysis by X-ray diffraction confirmed the cubic NbC phase, while electron microscopy images displayed approximately 8 nm spherical particles, showing no noticeable size variation with laser fluence. Additionally, magnetization curves exhibited both magnetic and superconducting loops for all investigated samples. A decrease in laser fluence resulted in the suppression of diamagnetic behavior below TC. Furthermore, all samples exhibited a weak electron spin resonance (ESR) Curie-like signal at g ≃ 2.0, probably linked to localized defects on the particle's surface. The simultaneous existence of superconductivity and magnetism in nanoparticles has recently garnered significant research attention. This intricate scenario and unique properties arise from the significant enhancement of the surface-to-volume ratio in these superconducting NbC nanoparticles, emphasizing the need for further investigation to unveil novel material properties and shed new light on our comprehension of the superconducting phenomenon in this particular morphology.

Study on transient characteristics of pipeline under centrifugal pump shaft stuck condition

In the pump system, the water hammer effect generated by the shaft stuck accident will cause great harm to the pump and piping system. In order to reveal the transient characteristics of the pipeline during the transition process of vane-pump shaft stuck, three shaft stuck time of Δt = 0.5 s, Δt = 1 s and Δt = 1.5 s is tested by building a closed test bench of centrifugal pump. And establish a 1:1 closed system three-dimensional model to study the external characteristics and internal flow field changes of the pump and piping system during the transition process of the shaft stuck. The study shows that: The rotational speed curves are non-linearly decreasing; the patterns of change in flow rate show a roughly exponential function trending downward; the heads during the shaft stuck will fall rapidly and reach the reverse extreme value. For the pump inlet piping system, the pressure of each place in the speed down to 0 rpm before the peak, the pressure of the outlet pipeline is always down to the reference pressure. Under the same shaft stuck condition, the pressure change in each place of the inlet piping system is basically the same, and the pressure reaches the peak at the same time. The maximum pressure of the inlet and outlet piping is at the rear 3/4 of the elbow. The closer to the face of the inlet and outlet of the elbow, the greater the load force applied; with the elbow as the demarcation, the pressure gradually increases along the flow direction. By revealing the transient mechanism of system piping during centrifugal pump shaft stuck transient process, it provides a reference basis for the design and accident safety assessment of vane-type pumping system.

Single and multi‐fractal dimension variation of tight sandstone by using centrifuge T2 spectral curve

AbstractPore‐fracture structure distribution heterogeneity (PFSH) affects dynamic variation of porosity‐permeability of tight sandstone reservoirs, then restricting gas production performance. A fractal model by low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance technology (LF‐NMR) has been used in the quantitative characterization of PFSH. Among some literature, PFSH was studied by using a saturated T2 spectrum. However, there are few studies on fractal characteristics of T2 spectral morphology in a centrifugal state and its influence on porosity‐permeability parameters. In this paper, 30 tight sandstone samples were collected from Taiyuan Formation in Qinshui Basin. Then LF‐NMR technology was used to analyze PFSH, and sample types were divided by using T2 spectra difference under saturated and centrifugal conditions. Meanwhile, single (model 1 and 2) and multi‐fractal model are adopted to calculate fractal parameters of saturated and centrifugal T2 spectra, and then a difference in fractal parameters under different water conditions was compared. Correlation between different fractal parameters, pore structure and T2 cut‐off value are studied, and a mathematical prediction model for T2 cut‐off value by using fractal and pore structure parameters are established. The results are as follows. (1) All the samples are divided into four types A/B/C/D. For example, the type A sample is characterized by a single peak of T2 spectrum and T2 value is less than 10 ms, which indicates that this type belongs a smaller‐pore developed. Type B sample is characterized by a single peak of T2 spectrum and T2 value is10–100 ms, which indicates that this type belongs to mesopore developed. (2) In saturated state (DS), PFSH of type A sample by using model 1 and 2 is stronger than that of type B, followed by type C and D. Then the multifractal model shows that PFSH of type B sample is stronger than that of other sample types. Correlation between fractal dimension calculated by using single fractal and pore structure parameters is stronger than that of multifractal dimension. (3) T2 spectrum in centrifugal state has fractal characteristics (Di), and there are certain correlation Di with Ds. Therefore, a mathematical prediction model for T2 cut‐off value by using fractal and pore structure parameters is established. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.

Synthesis of centrifugally spun polyacrylonitrile-carbon fibers

This work demonstrates the carbonization of centrifugally spun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers. Initially, the optimal centrifugal spinning conditions for producing homogeneous PAN fibers were identified. Second, the process continued by stabilization and carbonization of PAN to ensure a pure carbonaceous fiber material by eliminating all non-carbonaceous matter. The spun PAN fibers were stabilized at 240 °C in air at a heating rate of 1 °C/min, then carbonized between 600 and 1200 °C in argon at 5 °C/min. After carbonization, the fibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy (RS). The SEM results showed that by increasing the carbonization temperature, the prolonged elimination of other functional groups resulted in the formation of thinner carbon fibers. FTIR spectra of PAN fibers revealed that the peaks associated with C≡N bonds were substantially reduced and C–H bonds were eliminated in the fibers during the stabilization. These reductions are attributed to the cyclization of nitrile groups and the stabilizing process, and increasing carbonization temperatures resulted in flatter FTIR curves, supporting the findings. According to XRD, the structure of PAN was disturbed, as desired, and carbonization led to the formation of broad bumps resulting from amorphous carbon. Raman investigations found that increasing the carbonization temperature from 600 to 1200 °C resulted in no significant R values, suggesting that all fibers had no structural ordering. The study results could be used in many other areas, such as the fabrication of electrodes, supporting catalytic reactions, filter media, and energy.