Diverse Ions Research Articles

Insights Into the Mechanochemical Glass Formation of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks.

Metal-organic framework (MOF) glasses, known for their potential in gas separation, optics, and solid-state electrolytes, benefit from the processability of their (supercooled) liquid state. Traditionally, MOF glasses are produced by heating MOF crystals to their melting point and then cooling the liquid MOF to room temperature under an inert atmosphere. While effective, this melt-quenching technique requires high energy due to the high temperatures involved. It also limits the scope of new material development by restricting the compositional range to only those combinations of metal ions and linkers that are highly thermally stable. An alternative, mechanical milling at room temperature, has demonstrated its capability to transform MOF crystals into amorphous phases. However, the specific conditions under which these amorphous phases exhibit glass-like behavior remain uncharted. In this study, we explore the mechanochemical amorphization and vitrification of a variety of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) with diverse linkers and different metal ions (Zn2+, Co2+ and Cu2+) at room temperature. Our findings demonstrate that ZIFs capable of melting can be successfully converted into glasses through ball-milling. Remarkably, some non-meltable ZIFs can also be vitrified using the ball-milling technique, as highlighted by the preparation of the first Cu2+-based ZIF glass.

Chalcone derived bis-organosilane and its magnetic nanoparticles: Unveiling precision in selective Cu(II) ion detection and elucidating biocompatibility

The escalating concern regarding the adverse effects of metal ion toxicity on both human health and environmental ecosystems necessitates the development of efficient detection methodologies. This study presents a focused investigation on the selective and sensitive detection of Cu(II) ions employing hybrid magnetic nanoparticles derived from chalcone-based bis-organosilane. These nanoparticles exhibit a notably low detection limit in the nano-scale range, rendering the sensor highly sensitive to Copper(II) ion detection while maintaining robust anti-interference capabilities, even in the presence of diverse metal ions. Real sample analysis confirms the sensor’s efficacy in detecting Cu(II) ions below WHO-prescribed levels. Computational analyses reveal molecular interactions and biological activities, including potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties, suggesting promising applications. Furthermore, the biological effectiveness of chalcone-derived bis-organosilane is investigated, unveiling notable antibacterial efficacy and also exhibiting potential as a scavenger of free radicals, indicating promising applications in both antibacterial and antioxidant domains.

A highly stable, rapid and sensitive fluorescent probe for Al3+ and pefloxacin based on enhanced fluorescence of a Co(II) coordination polymer

Fabricating functional coordination polymer (CP) architectures and exploiting it as fluorescence sensors for detecting diverse metal ions and antibiotics, have attracted extensive attention. Based on a rarely-used benzimidazole-derived ligand 2,2′-bis-(2-pyridin-3-yl-vinyl)-3H,3′H-[5,5]bibenzoimidazole (L), a new CP {[Co(L)0.5(tbip)]·H2O}n (H2tbip =5‑tert-butylisophthalic acid) (1) was synthesized under solvothermal condition and characterized. Complex 1 reveals a two-dimensional network with the type of topology of 3,4,5L7. Complex 1 possesses excellent thermal and chemical stability. The fluorescence detection ability of complex 1 was explored and demonstrated that complex 1 can be used as the first fluorescent turn-on sensor to sense Al3+ and pefloxacin (PEF) with a low detection limit and fast response. The fluorescence enhancement mechanism was investigated in detail.

Molecular Insights into Single Chain Lipid Modulation of Acid-Sensing Ion Channel 3.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and their analogs play a significant role in modulating the activity of diverse ion channels, and recent studies show that these lipids potentiate acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), leading to increased activity. The potentiation of the channel stems from multiple gating changes, but the exact mechanism of these effects remains uncertain. We posit a mechanistic explanation for one of these changes in channel function, the increase in the maximal current, by applying a combination of electrophysiology and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations on the open-state hASIC3. Microsecond-scale simulations were performed on open-state hASIC3 in the absence and presence of a PUFA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and a PUFA analog, N-arachidonyl glycine (AG). Intriguingly, our simulations in the absence of PUFA or PUFA analogs reveal that a tail from the membrane phospholipid POPC inserts itself into the pore of the channel through lateral fenestrations on the sides of the transmembrane segments, obstructing ion permeation through the channel. The binding of either DHA or AG prevented POPC from accessing the pore in our simulations, relieving the block of ionic conduction by phospholipids. Finally, we use the single-channel recording to show that DHA increases the amplitude of the single-channel currents in ASIC3, which is consistent with our hypothesis that PUFAs relieve the pore block of the channel induced by POPCs. Together, these findings offer a potential mechanistic explanation of how PUFAs modulate ASIC maximal current, revealing a novel mechanism of action for PUFA-induced modulation of ion channels.

Chemical preintercalation of magnesium ions into ⍺-MoO3 structure for improved electrochemical stability in Li-ion cells

Chemical preintercalation of layered materials, used as electrodes in intercalation-based energy storage devices, represents a promising strategy to enhance electrochemical stability and extend cycle life. However, standardized synthesis approaches for the chemical preintercalation of diverse ions into various layered materials are lacking, necessitating the development of specific synthesis routes for each ion and layered phase combination. In this study, we present the first successful demonstration of Mg2+ ion chemical preintercalation into the interlayer region of α-MoO3, revealing its stabilizing effect during cycling in non-aqueous Li-ion cells. Using ethanol during hydrothermal treatment facilitated molybdenum reduction, which was critical for Mg2+ ion preintercalation. Interestingly, we found that Mg preintercalation was accompanied by the incorporation of water. Mg-preintercalated α-MoO3 exhibited enhanced charge storage capacity, electrochemical stability, and power capability compared to pristine α-MoO3 electrodes. This improved performance is attributed to the structural stabilization provided by Mg2+ pillars, which prevent undesirable phase transformations during repeated Li intercalation/deintercalation, and increased Li+ ion diffusion due to the shielding of electrostatic interactions between electrochemically cycled ions and the α-MoO3 lattice, enabled by structural water. Our study offers new insights into developing chemical preintercalation synthesis approaches that can be broadly applied to a wide range of pillaring ions and layered material hosts.

Simultaneous determination of peroxydisulfate and bisulfite concentrations with quenching-agent-assisted iodometry

Fenton/Fenton-like reactions have gained popularity for their remarkable proficiency in decomposing organic pollutants, especially when enhanced by reductants addition for accelerating the Fe2+ regeneration. Nevertheless, these works predominantly centered on the formation and utilization of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) in the process, neglecting the evolution of oxidant and reductant due to the difficulty in the simultaneous determination of these two components. By employing the quenching-iodometric method, we could simultaneously determine the concentrations of HSO3- and peroxydisulfate (PDS). This method first employed an excess of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to effectively quench HSO3-, and then used the iodometric spectrophotometry to simultaneously determine the concentrations of PMS and PDS in the reaction system. Finally, through precise stoichiometric relationships, we could accurately calculate the concentration of HSO3-. Based on this method, we achieved concentration measurements that, upon linear fitting, yielded a correlation coefficient (R2) surpassing 0.99, unequivocally affirming the method's accuracy and trustworthiness. In this work, an innovation approach for determining the concentrations of HSO3- (reductant) and PDS(oxidant) was explored.Additionally, the resilience of the method was verified across different pH levels and in the presence of diverse impurity ions. The results ensured precise concentration measurements in the real wastewater. This method was characterized by its simplicity, rapid analysis, and environmental friendliness, offering a new analytical strategy for the determination of PDS and HSO3- in environmental samples. The method enables more meticulous monitoring of chemical usage in water treatment, facilitating optimized dosing strategies and assessments of reductant-enhanced Fenton or Fenton-like system in water purification.

Statistical Investigation of the Storm Time Plasma Density Strip‐Like Bulges at Lower‐Mid Latitudes

AbstractThe strip‐like bulge is a storm‐time conjugate ionospheric plasma density enhancement, constituted by the plasmaspheric H+/He+, that extends widely (over 150° in longitude) in the zonal dimension but occupies only 1°–5° in latitude. Based on in‐situ measurements of 11 low earth orbit satellites, this study statistically investigates the bulge structures of geomagnetic storms driven by 136 interplanetary coronal mass ejections during 2000–2021. The statistical results show that the strip‐like bulges are observed at the end of the storm main phase and can persist for more than 60 hr. The spatial and temporal coverage of the strip‐like bulge varies from storm to storm. However, the bulges do exhibit occurrence preferences: stronger storms (for the ICME‐driven) during solar minimum periods, the Asian‐Pacific sector (with eastward magnetic declination), and the nightside of the dawn‐dusk terminator. A quiet time density enhancement called mid‐latitude enhancement could be recognized as a precursor of the strip‐like bulge. The evolution features of the plasmapause height exhibit similarities with the strip‐like bulge, indicating a field‐aligned downward and cross‐L inward intrusion of the plasmaspheric ions. The local net ion drifts partly support this scenario with downward/inward being the most dominant but not unique pattern, the other diverse net ion drift configurations exist but their impact on the strip‐like bulges remains unclear.

Physicochemical Methods for the Structuring and Assembly of MOF Crystals.

ConspectusMetal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising for various applications through the creation of innovative materials and assemblies. This potential stems from their modular nature, as diverse metal ions and organic linkers can be combined to produce MOFs with unique chemical properties and lattice structures. Following extensive research on the design and postsynthetic chemical modification of MOF lattices at the molecular level, increasing attention is now focused on the next hierarchical level: controlling the morphology of MOF crystals and their subsequent assembly and positioning to create functional composites.Beyond well-established methods to regulate crystal size and shape through nucleation and coordination modulation, physicochemical techniques leveraging wetting effects, interparticle interactions, and magnetic or electric fields offer attractive avenues for the hierarchical structuring and assembly of MOFs. These techniques facilitate crystal alignment and yield unique superstructures. While our research group primarily focuses on directing MOF crystal orientation and positioning using external stimuli such as magnetic and electric fields, we also explore hierarchical MOF synthesis and structuring using liquid interfaces and depletion force-assisted packing.This account highlights our journey and progress in developing methods to regulate the morphology, assembly, orientation, and positioning of MOF crystals, placed in the context of work by other groups. First, we examine commonly utilized structuring methods for MOF crystals that employ liquid-liquid and air-liquid interfaces to spatially confine reactions, allowing us to access unique morphologies such as mushroom-like crystals and Janus particles. We also discuss strategies for concentrating and packing MOF crystals into superstructures, utilizing fluid interfaces for spatial confinement of crystals, depletion forces, entropic effects, and crystal sedimentation.A particularly compelling challenge in expanding the applicability of MOF materials is how to manipulate free-standing MOF crystals. This issue is especially important because MOFs are typically produced as loose powders, and industrial material processing is generally more efficient when the material is fluidized. While extensive research has been conducted regarding MOF growth on substrates with both positional and orientational control, there is a clear need for similar precision with free-standing MOFs dispersed in a fluid matrix. Our group has thus focused on the relatively new, yet powerful approach of using electric and magnetic fields to manipulate MOF crystals, which offers unprecedented control over the orientation and positioning of dispersed MOF crystals, complementing the more well-established methods of MOF growth on substrates. In this Account, we provide foundational background and discussions on the interactions between these external fields and MOF crystals, including critical considerations for effective MOF manipulation using such techniques. We also discuss their unique advantages and applications, and briefly examine potential application areas, such as photonics, smart materials like soft robotics and absorbents, and sensing. This Account highlights the promising potential of well-organized and aligned MOF crystals over randomly oriented ones in various applications, owing to enhanced selectivity and performance. It underscores the importance of specialized assembly methods to advance materials science and engineering, encouraging the reader to explore such approaches.

Modulating Cu2O/CuO on attapulgite for boosting peroxymonosulfate activation

Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation is an economically viable and efficient advanced oxidation process used to degrade recalcitrant organic pollutants. In this study, the copper oxide/attapulgite (CuxO/ATP) catalyst was synthesized via the hydrothermal method. The catalytic degradation efficiency was assessed using ciprofloxacin (CIP) as the model pollutant. The influence of catalyst dosage and PMS concentration on CIP degradation was examined. Additionally, the capability of the catalyst to degrade CIP under varying pH conditions, temperatures, and in the presence of diverse inorganic ions was investigated. The findings revealed that CuxO/ATP exhibited superior performance compared to pure CuxO in PMS activation for CIP degradation. Microstructural analysis indicated well-dispersed CuxO nanoflowers on the attapulgite, facilitating a synergistic effect between the two components. The presence of attapulgite enhanced the dispersion of CuxO, leading to an increase in the exposed surface area. In addition, attapulgite facilitated the adsorption of pollutants onto the CuxO interface, while CuxO, in turn, activated PMS to generate active free radicals, thereby enabling the catalytic oxidation of pollutants. Through a series of free radical quenching experiments, sulfate radicals were identified as the predominant species responsible for CIP degradation, playing a pivotal role in the system. Moreover, a plausible catalytic mechanism was discussed. Furthermore, reusability tests demonstrated the catalyst's stability and recyclability. This research not only presents a novel and robust approach for CuxO catalyst synthesis but also offers deeper insights into the mechanism underlying CuxO activation of PMS.

Versatile Solvatochromic fluorophores based on Schiff bases for colorimetric detection of metal ions

In recent years, fluorescent probes have been extensively studied as powerful tools for the effective assessment of toxic metal ions due to their high sensitivity, selectivity, capability for real-time and non-invasive monitoring, and versatility. In this paper, novel fluorescent probes based on Schiff bases, namely 2-((1E,2E)-1-(6-chlorobenzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino)-3-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)allyl)phenol (1) and 2-((1E,2E)-3-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)-1-(4-methylbenzo[d]thiazol-2-ylimino)allyl)phenol (2), were synthesized and characterized. The optical properties of these probes were examined across a spectrum of fourteen solvents with varying polarities, revealing significant solvatochromic effects on both absorption and fluorescence spectra. The analysis delineated a discernible difference in dipole moment between electronic ground and excited states, with molecules exhibiting enhanced stabilization in singlet excited states. Subsequently, a straightforward method was devised for the selective and sensitive detection of diverse metal ions in aqueous solutions, including K+, V3+, Cr3+, Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Se6+, Cd2+, Ba2+, and Hg2+, through naked eye observation, UV–Visible, and fluorimetric measurements. Notably, the UV–Vis spectra of probes 1 and 2 manifested a significant red shift upon the addition of metal ions, indicative of potential ligand-to-metal charge-transfer (LMCT) phenomena, with the exception of Ni2+, Cu2+, and Se6+ions. The observed alterations in optical absorption and fluorescence emission contributed to the probes' heightened selectivity and sensitivity, obviating the necessity for sample pretreatment. Competitive assays underscored the probes' preference for Cr3+ and V3+ ions over other common metal ions. Furthermore, Job's plot analysis suggested a 1:1 ligand-to-metal molar ratio binding. The investigated Schiff bases exhibited elevated binding constants (Ka), low detection limits, and limits of quantification, alongside diminished fluorescence quantum yield. Leveraging fluorescence quenching, facile paper-based sensor strips coated with Schiff bases facilitated prompt, qualitative, and quantitative in situ detection of metal ions in aqueous solutions across a broad concentration spectrum, discernible to the naked eye under UV light.

Comparing Conventional and Advanced Approaches for Heavy Metal Removal in Wastewater Treatment: An In-Depth Review Emphasizing Filter-Based Strategies.

Various industrial activities release heavy metal ions into the environment, which represent one of the major toxic pollutants owing to their severe effects on the environment, humans, and all living species. Despite several technological advances and breakthroughs, wastewater treatment remains a critical global issue. Traditional techniques are dedicated to extracting heavy metal ions from diverse wastewater origins, encompassing coagulation/flocculation, precipitation, flotation, and ion exchange. Their cost, side toxicity, or ineffectiveness often limit their large-scale use. Due to their adaptable design, simple operation, and reasonable cost, membrane filtration and adsorption have proven their efficiency in removing metals from wastewater. Recently, adsorption-based filters have appeared promising in treating water. Within this range, filters incorporating natural, synthetic, or hybrid adsorbents present an appealing alternative to conventional approaches. This review aims to list and describe the conventional and advanced wastewater treatment methods by comparing their efficiency, cost, and environmental impact. Adsorption-based filters were highlighted due to the significant advantages they can provide.

Study of Interfacial Properties of Anionic–Nonionic Surfactants Based on Succinic Acid Derivatives via Molecular Dynamics Simulations and the IGMH Method

Surfactants are widely used in fields such as oil recovery and flotation. The properties and mechanisms of surfactants can be effectively studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Herein, the aggregation behavior of surfactants was studied at the oil–water interface by MD simulation, and the micro-morphology of surfactants was analyzed under a low concentration and saturated state at the oil–water interface, respectively. The visualization results of the MD simulation showed that DTOA was saturated at the oil–water interface at 120 surfactant molecules, whereas 160 surfactant molecules were required for BEMA. In addition, the effect of surfactant concentration on the interfacial thickness and hydrogen bond distribution was studied, with the inflection point of hydrogen bond distribution identified as a characteristic parameter for surfactant saturation at the oil–water interface. The aggregation behavior of their hydrophobic and hydrophilic chains at the oil–water interface was qualitatively assessed using order parameters. Finally, the aggregation state of surfactants in salt-containing systems was studied, and it was found that the surfactants could effectively adsorb magnesium ions and calcium ions at the oil–water interface. However, the curve of the number of hydrogen bonds varies greatly, with a possible reason being that BEMA has a different coordination manner with diverse metal ions. This study provides some original insights into both the theoretical study and practical application of anionic and nonionic surfactants.

Photo-induced protonation assisted nano primary battery for highly efficient immobilization of diverse heavy metal ions

Highly-stable heavy metal ions (HMIs) appear long-term damage, while the existing remediation strategies struggle to effectively remove a variety of oppositely charged HMIs without releasing toxic substances. Here we construct an iron-copper primary battery-based nanocomposite, with photo-induced protonation effect, for effectively consolidating broad-spectrum HMIs. In FCPBN, Fe/Cu cell acts as the reaction impetus, and functional graphene oxide modified by carboxyl and UV-induced protonated 2-nitrobenzaldehyde serves as an auxiliary platform. Due to the groups and built-in electric fields under UV stimuli, FCPBN exhibits excellent affinity for ions, with a maximum adsorption rate constant of 974.26 g∙mg-1∙min-1 and facilitated electrons transfer, assisting to reduce 9 HMIs including Cr2O72-, AsO2-, Cd2+ in water from 0.03 to 3.89 ppb. The cost-efficiency, stability and collectability of the FCPBN during remediation, and the beneficial effects on polluted soil and the beings further demonstrate the splendid remediation performance without secondary pollution. This work is expected to remove multi-HMIs thoroughly and sustainably, which tackles an environmental application challenge.

PVDF-HFP encapsulated WS2 nanosheets in droplet-based triboelectric nanogenerators for possible detection of human Na+/K+ ion concentration

Here we report the liquid–solid interaction in droplet-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) for estimation of human Na+/K+ levels. The exploitation of PVDF-HFP encapsulated WS2 as active layer in the droplet-based TENG (DTENG) leads to the generation of electrical signal during the impact of water droplet. Comparison over the control devices indicates that surface quality and dielectric nature of the PVDF-HFP/WS2 composite largely dictates the performance of the DTENG. The demonstration of excellent sensitivity of the DTENG towards water quality indicates its promising application towards water testing. In addition, the alteration in output signal with slightest variation in ionic concentration (Na+ or K+) in water has been witnessed and is interpreted with charge transfer and ion transfer processes during liquid–solid interaction. The study reveals that the ion mobility largely affects the ion adsorption process on the active layer of PVDF-HFP/WS2 and thus generates distinct output profiles for diverse ions like Na+ and K+. Following that, the DTENG characteristics have been exploited to artificial urine where the varying output signals have been recorded for variation in urinary Na+ ion concentration. Therefore, the deployment of PVDF-HFP/WS2 in DTENG holds promising application towards the analyse of ionic characteristics of body fluids.

Role of cation nature in crown ether appended 25-Oxasmaragdyrins with second-order NLO responses: As potential and selective metal ions detector

Crown ethers, known for their efficacy as metal ion traps, have garnered significant interest in optoelectronic applications due to their unique cavity structure and special binding ability with metals. Herein, we systematically designed and investigated the second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of an intriguing compound, 18-crown-6 derivative appended with 25-oxasmaragdyrins (Cr-Prs), achieved through the incorporation of diverse metal ions into the crown ether ring. Significantly, the βtot values of compounds with alkaline earth metal ions (Mg2+, Ca2+) are greater than those compounds with alkali metal ions (Na+, K+). Interestingly, the Hg2+@Cr-Prs compound exhibits a tremendous second-order NLO property with the βtot value of 5.34 × 105 au. Further insights into substantial βtot values across all compounds were provided through a comprehensive analysis of the transition energies, the molecular orbitals, and the absorption spectra of the main excited states. The calculation results conclude that the second-order NLO properties of Cr-Prs can be modulated by incorporating metal ions into the crown ether ring. Crown ether emerges as a facilitator in detecting and identifying Hg2+ ions, serving as an effective NLO-based ion detector. These findings not only broaden the scope of cation detection and efficiency but also present innovative applications in analytical and optoelectronic research, encapsulating the essence of our study within a concise framework.

Ion channel inhibition by targeted recruitment of NEDD4-2 with divalent nanobodies.

Targeted recruitment of E3 ubiquitin ligases to degrade traditionally undruggable proteins is a disruptive paradigm for developing new therapeutics. Two salient limitations are that <2% of the ~600 E3 ligases in the human genome have been exploited to produce proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), and the efficacy of the approach has not been demonstrated for a vital class of complex multi-subunit membrane proteins- ion channels. NEDD4-1 and NEDD4-2 are physiological regulators of myriad ion channels, and belong to the 28-member HECT (homologous to E6AP C-terminus) family of E3 ligases with widespread roles in cell/developmental biology and diverse diseases including various cancers, immunological and neurological disorders, and chronic pain. The potential efficacy of HECT E3 ligases for targeted protein degradation is unexplored, constrained by a lack of appropriate binders, and uncertain due to their complex regulation by layered intra-molecular and posttranslational mechanisms. Here, we identified a nanobody that binds with high affinity and specificity to a unique site on the N-lobe of the NEDD4-2 HECT domain at a location physically separate from sites critical for catalysis- the E2 binding site, the catalytic cysteine, and the ubiquitin exosite- as revealed by a 3.1 Å cryo-electron microscopy reconstruction. Recruiting endogenous NEDD4-2 to diverse ion channel proteins (KCNQ1, ENaC, and CaV2.2) using a divalent (DiVa) nanobody format strongly reduced their functional expression with minimal off-target effects as assessed by global proteomics, compared to simple NEDD4-2 overexpression. The results establish utility of a HECT E3 ligase for targeted protein downregulation, validate a class of complex multi-subunit membrane proteins as susceptible to this modality, and introduce endogenous E3 ligase recruitment with DiVa nanobodies as a general method to generate novel genetically-encoded ion channel inhibitors.

3D-MPEA: A Graph Attention Model-Guided Computational Approach for Annotating Unknown Metabolites in Interactomics via Mass Spectrometry-Focused Multilayer Molecular Networking.

The spectral matching strategy of MS2 fragment spectrograms serves as a ubiquitous method for compound characterization within the matrix. Nevertheless, challenges arise due to the deficiency of distinctions in spectra across instruments caused by coelution peak-derived fragments and incompleteness of the current spectral reference database, leading to dilemma of multidimensional omics annotation. The graph attention model embedded with long short-term memory was proposed as an optimized approach involving integrating similar MS2 spectra into molecular networks according to the isotopic ion peak cluster spacing features to collapse diverse ion species and expand the spectral reference library, which efficiently evaluated the substance capture capacity to 123.1% than classic substance perception tactics. The versatility and utility of the established annotation procedure were showcased in a study on the stimulation of pork mediated by 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane and enabled the global metabolite annotation from knowns to unknowns at metabolite-lipid-protein level. On the spectra for which in silico extended spectral library search provided a group truth, 83.5-117.1% accuracy surpassed 1.2-14.3% precision after manual validation. β-Ala-His dipeptidase was first evidenced as the critical node related to the transformation of α-helical (36.57 to 35.74%) to random coil (41.53 to 42.36%) mediated by 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane, ultimately triggering an augment of catalytic performance, inducing a series of oxidative stress, and further intervening in the availability of animal-derived substrates. The integration of ionic fragment feature networks and long short-term memory models allows the effective annotation of recurrent unknowns in organisms and the deciphering of unacquainted matter in multiomics.

Optimizing Recovery of Fracturing Fluid in Unconventional and Tight Gas Reservoirs Through Innovative Environmentally Friendly Flowback Additives

Hydraulic fracturing, a method used to stimulate oil and gas from shale and tight formations, faces challenges like fluid blockage and fast declining oil or gas production rates due to the significant impact of capillary forces on water retention. To address this, surfactants and microemulsions are commonly employed as flowback additives to reduce surface and interfacial tension, enhancing water recovery during hydraulic fracturing. The effectiveness of flowback additives is highly impacted by harsh subsurface conditions, such as high salinity and high temperature. This study aims to assess the performance and effectiveness of methylimidazolium chloride-based ionic liquids as flowback additives at high salinities and temperatures.Different experimental analysis were conducted to screen different concentrations of methylimidazolium chloride-based ionic liquids (X1, X2, and X3). Surface tension measurements were conducted to estimate the critical micelles concentrations. A spinning drop tensiometer (SDT) was utilized to measure interfacial tension, in addition, contact angle measurements were used to evaluate the impact of the flowback additive on the wettability and the displacing behavior. Seawater was used as the base fracturing fluid with a salinity of 57,000 ppm and temperatures up to 90°c for all experiments. Coreflood experiments were conducted using tight formations to evaluate the regained hydrocarbon permeability and the fracturing fluid recovery in the presence of flowback additives.Various formulations, with surface tension values ranging from 30 to 45 mN/m and CMC values between 0.5 and 1 gallon per thousand units (gpt), were examined. The lowest interfacial tension value, notably 3 mN/m, was achieved with the X3 formulation. Ionic liquids demonstrated favorable surface tension reduction, where longer carbon chains led to lower values. Introducing diverse ions, especially divalent ions, enhanced the performance of ionic liquids. Interfacial tension measurements indicated a significant reduction with the addition of X3 to both 5 wt% KCl and the fracturing base fluid. Contact angle measurements revealed a shift towards greater water-wettability after treating the rock with flowback additives. Moreover, the use of ionic liquids improved permeability by 25%, enhancing fluid recovery to around 56%.According to our results, methylimidazolium chloride-based ionic liquids can be used as environmentally friendly flowback additives, especially in harsh conditions of high temperature and high salinity where the conventional additives are not suitable. This will contribute to the development of more sustainable and environmentally conscious practices in hydraulic fracturing operations. Ultimately, the utilization of these additives can help mitigate water blockage, reduce formation damage, and enhance shale gas production.

Hyperhomocysteinemia Transcriptionally Regulates Expression of a Set of Ion Channels in Brain and Heart Tissues in Mice

The alterations of ion channel gene expressions in brain and heart tissues in HHcy have not been previously reported. We investigated the mRNA expression levels in brain and heart tissues of the HHcy mice compared to the control mice to characterize distinct expression of 36 ion channels. C57BL/6 J. mice were divided into two groups of 15 animals each: (1) control group and (2) HHcy group. The HHcy was induced by methionine administiration. The mRNA levels of ion channels were analyzed using qRT-PCR. TUNEL staining and MDA assay were used for verification of the negative side effects of HHcy in heart and brain tissues. RT-PCR revealed the upregulation of Hcn4, Trpc3, Trpm2 and the downregulation of Abbc8, Cacna1b, Cacna1c, Cacna1e, Cacna1h, Hcn1, Kcnc3, Kcnh7, Kcnj8, Trpc4, Trpc5, Trpc6, Trpm3, Trpm4, Trpv4, Trpv6 in brain tissues of the HHcy group compared to the control. The upregulation of ion channel expressions in heart tissues were not detected, but we found only the downregulation of Accn1, Accn2, Accn3, Hcn1, Kcnc4 and Trpv6 ion channels. Apoptozis and MDA level were significantly increased in brain and heart tissues of the HHcy group compared to the control. Brain tissues compared to heart tissues exhibit a very considerable and diverse ion channel gene expression pattern in mice with HHcy than control. Clarifying the roles of ion channels in HHcy could shed light on the development of novel therapeutic strategies and ultimately improve HHcy side effects.

Effect of tissue fixatives on the corrosion of biomedical magnesium alloys

In this work, the corrosion behavior of pure Mg, Mg3Ag, Mg6Ag, and MgZnYNd alloys in different fixatives (ethyl alcohol (EA), 85 % ethyl alcohol (85 % EA), 10 % neutral buffered formalin (10 % NBF), 4 % glutaric dialdehyde (4 % GD), and 4 % paraformaldehyde (4 % PFA)) was investigated to provide a valuable reference for the selection of fixatives during the histological evaluation of Mg implants. Through the hydrogen evolution test, pH test, and corrosion morphology and product characterization, it was found that corrosion proceeded slowest in the EA and 85 % EA groups, slightly faster in 4 % GD, faster in 10 % NBF, and fastest in 4 % PFA. After corrosion, the EA group surface remained unchanged, while the 85%EA group surface developed minor cracks and warping. The 4%GD fixative formed a dense needle-like protective layer on the Mg substrate. The 10%NBF group initially grew a uniform layer, but later developed irregular pits due to accelerated corrosion. In contrast, the 4%PFA solution caused more severe corrosion attributed to chloride ions. The main corrosion products in the EA and 85%EA groups were MgO and Mg(OH)2, while the other fixatives containing diverse ions also yielded phosphates like Mg3(PO4)2 and MgHPO4. In 4 % PFA, AgCl formed on the surface of Mg6Ag alloy after corrosion. Therefore, to minimize Mg alloy corrosion without compromising staining quality, EA or 85 % EA is recommended, while 4 % PFA is not recommended due to its significant impact.