Element Composition Research Articles

A Hybrid Alloying Nanozyme-Glutathione Inhibitor Co-Delivery System Initiates a Dual-Disruption on Cancer Redox Homeostasis.

Altered redox homeostasis has long been observed in cancer cells, which can be exploited for therapeutic benefits. However, reactive oxygen species (ROS) pleiotropy coupling with reductive adaptation in cancer cells poses a formidable challenge for redox dyshomeostasis-based cancer therapy. Herein, a AuPd alloying nanozyme-glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis inhibitor co-delivery system (B-BMES) is developed using dendritic SiO2 as a matrix to target cancer redox homeostasis. By optimizing element composition, the alloying nanozyme in B-BMES exhibits a potent peroxidase (POD)-like activity to trigger ROS insults-mediated redox dyshomeostasis. Such a POD functionality is attributed to the optimized electronic structure and catalytic activity. Simultaneously, the B-BMES abrogates the reductive adaptation by exerting its molecule-targeted GSH suppression, thereby achieving a dual-disruption on cancer redox homeostasis. Camouflaging B-BMES with tumor-homologous cytomembrane, a hybrid nanosystem with biological stability and tumor-targeting ability is further fabricated, which initiates a safe, precise redox disruption-based cancer therapy and sensibilizes standard chemotherapy.

Precipitation–Flotation Process for Molybdenum and Uranium Separation from Wastewater

The mining of molybdenum and uranium ores inevitably results in the generation of large volumes of wastewater containing low concentrations of metals, which poses significant threats to the environment. This study presents a novel precipitation–flotation process for the simultaneous separation of molybdenum and uranium from wastewater. A systematic investigation was conducted on the impacts of the type of precipitant, flotation reagent type, and flotation parameters on the experimental results. Ferric salt served better as a precipitant than aluminum salt and humic acid did, and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was more suitable than sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate for acting as a surfactant and foaming agent. Under specific conditions, including a pH of 6.6, an Fe3+ dosage of 0.6 mmol·L−1, an SDS dosage of 40 mg·L−1, an air flow rate of 25 mL·min−1, and a flotation time of 10 min, the removal efficiencies of molybdenum and uranium reached 96.6% and 93.6%, respectively. After flotation, the molybdenum concentration, uranium concentration, chemical oxygen demand, and turbidity of the treated water all meet the emission standards. Furthermore, the metal removal mechanisms, including the particle size distribution, functional group structure, surface element composition, microstructure, and element distribution, were elucidated on the basis of characterization of the precipitation–flotation products.

Machine Learning Accelerated Discovery of Entropy-Stabilized Oxide Catalysts for Catalytic Oxidation.

The catalytic properties of unary to ternary metal oxides were already well experimentally explored, and the left space seems like only high entropy metal oxides (HEOs, element types ≥5). However, the countless element compositions make the trial-and-error method of discovering HEO catalysts impossible. Herein, based on the study of the crystal phase and catalytic performance of the ACr2Ox catalyst system, the strong correlation between the single spinel phase and good catalytic activity of CH4 oxidation was inferred owing to the similar element importance sequences, which were acquired by the corresponding high accuracy machine learning models (cross-validation score >0.7). Furthermore, searching for negative data and choosing the proper training data resulted in high-quality regression models to search for better catalysts. Finally, the screened irregular catalyst Ni0.04Co0.48Zn0.36V0.12Cr2Ox with outstanding sulfur and moisture resistance and long-term stability (>7000 h, T90 = 345 °C) envisions the potential of applying the machine learning method to discover HEOs for target processes.

LATE MESOZOIC RARE-METAL GRANITES, PEGMATITES, AND GREISENS OF MONGOLIA: AGE, MINERALOGY, GEOCHEMISTRY, ORE POTENTIAL, AND PETROGENESIS

Comparative analysis of the earlier obtained and new geological data, age, mineral, petrological, and geochemical compositions of plutons of calc-alkalic granitoids and rare-metal Li–F granites shows their evolution in a wide time interval during the formation of Mesozoic areas of granitoid magmatism. Mineralogical and geochemical analysis of the evolution of plutons of palingenetic calc-alkalic granitoids (Baga Hentiyn (MZ1) and Ikh Narotiin = Hiid (MZ2)) and intrusions of rare-metal Li–F granites of Central and Eastern Mongolia revealed their petrological and geochemical differences. The closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Basin with the formation of large plutons of calc-alkaliс granitoids, obviously related to collisional processes, did not cause significant enrichment of the late granite phases with lithophile and ore elements. Within the peripheral zones of еру MZ1 and MZ2 magmatic areas, mineralization is often associated with Mongolian multiphase plutons and small intrusions of rare-metal Li–F granites. The rare-metal granites are characterized by a decrease in indicative K/Rb, Nb/Ta, and Zr/Hf values and a regular increase in F, Li, Rb, Cs, Sn, W, Be, Ta, and Nb contents during the evolution of Li–F magmas. Igneous and, particularly, metasomatic rocks in most intrusions of ore-bearing rare-metal Li–F granites are characterized by significant variations in Sn and W contents. At the magmatic stage, the pegmatoid varieties of amazonite–albite granites and pegmatites of the zonal Baga Gazriin (MZ1) and Barun Tsogto (MZ2) plutons are significantly enriched in both Sn and W. Maximum Sn and W enrichment has been established in greisenized granites and zoned greisen bodies (zwitters), which is due to the percolation of ore-bearing solutions into the upper horizons and the mineralization of ore elements in the late phases of intrusions and in metasomatites. The wide variations in the age (321–126 Ma) and trace element and isotope compositions of Mongolian rare-metal Li–F granites within various zones of large magmatic areas suggest the influence of mantle plume sources on the composition of rare-metal granitic magmas and on their ore potential in intermediate chambers in the continental crust.

A shape grammar-based design for modular buildings based on the Vitruvian triad: The case of Mächtig Kiosk K67

The kiosk K67 is a known example of mass-produced modular architecture designed in the 60s. Although these modules allow many design solutions, the designer Saša Mächtig did not guide the generation of such designs so that the final composition of elements could fit a specific design purpose. This study has two aims. The first is the development of a shape grammar for the kiosk K67, which enables a deep analysis and synthesis of this paradigmatic design. The study’s second aim is to combine the kiosk K67 shape grammar with design principles to guide the generation of design solutions. To do so, the Vitruvian triad dimensions – firmitas, utilitas and venustas – are combined with the developed kiosk K67 shape grammar to generate design solutions based on specific design briefs. The study identifies how each dimension of the triad can impact architecture and then correlates these impacts with the kiosk K67 shape rules. Finally, shape grammar and design alternatives are presented. Each Vitruvian dimension is taken with different priorities in the design alternatives to test the concept. Such an approach enables us not just to analyse the design of Mächtig but also to use the developed shape grammar in a pedagogical way to explore how balancing design principles and constraints impact design outcomes.

Accretion and Core Formation of Earth-like Planets: Insights from Metal–Silicate Partitioning of Siderophile and Volatile Elements

The origin of volatile elements, the timing of their accretion and their distribution during Earth’s differentiation are fundamental aspects of Earth’s early evolution. Here, we present the result of a newly developed accretion and core formation model, which features the results of high P–T metal–silicate partitioning experiments. The model includes well-studied reference elements (Fe, Ni, Ca, Al, Mg, Si) as well as trace elements (V, Ga, Ag, Au, S) covering a wide range from refractory to volatile behavior. The accretion model simulates the different steps of planet formation, such as the effects of continuous, heterogenous core formation at high P–T, the effect of the Moon-forming giant impact and the addition of matter after the core formation was completed, the so-called “late veneer”. To explore the “core formation signature” of the volatile depletion patterns and the quantitative influence of a late veneer, we modeled planets that would have formed from known materials, such as CI, CM, CV, CO, EH and EL meteorites, and from a hypothetical volatile depleted material, CI*. Some of the resulting planets are Earth-like in key properties, such as overall core size, major element composition, oxygen fugacity and trace element composition. The model predicts the chemical signatures of the main planetary reservoirs, the metallic core and bulk silicate planet (BSP) of the modeled planets, which we compare with the chemical signature of Earth derived previously from core formation models and mass balance-based approaches. We show that planets accreted from volatile depleted carbonaceous chondrites (CM, CV, CO and CI*) are closest in terms of major element (Si, Mg, Fe, Ca, Al, Ni) and also siderophile volatile element (Ge, Ga, Au) concentrations to the components from which Earth accreted. Chalcophile volatile elements (S, Ag), instead, require an additional process to lower their concentrations in the BSP to Earth-like concentrations, perhaps the late segregation of a sulfide melt.

Candida albicans isolates contain frequent heterozygous structural variants and transposable elements within genes and centromeres.

The human fungal pathogen Candida albicans poses a significant burden on global health, causing high rates of mortality and antifungal drug resistance. C. albicans is a heterozygous diploid organism that reproduces asexually. Structural variants (SVs) are an important source of genomic rearrangement, particularly in species that lack sexual recombination. To comprehensively investigate SVs across clinical isolates of C. albicans, we conducted long read sequencing and genome-wide SV analysis in three distantly related clinical isolates. Our work included a new, comprehensive analysis of transposable element (TE) composition, location and diversity. SVs and TEs are frequently close to coding sequences and many SVs are heterozygous, suggesting that SVs might impact gene and allele-specific expression. Most SVs are uniquely present in only one clinical isolate, indicating that SVs represent a significant source of intra-species genetic variation. We identified multiple, distinct SVs at the centromeres of Chromosome 4 and Chromosome 5, including inversions and transposon polymorphisms. These two chromosomes are often aneuploid in drug resistant clinical isolates, and can form isochromosome structures with breakpoints near the centromere. Further screening of 100 clinical isolates confirmed the widespread presence of centromeric SVs in C. albicans, often appearing in a heterozygous state, indicating that SVs are contributing to centromere evolution in C. albicans Together, these findings highlight that SVs and TEs are common across diverse clinical isolates of C. albicans and that the centromeres of this organism are important sites of genome rearrangement.

Anodic Synthesis of Highly Ordered TiO2 Nanotube Arrays: Role of Electrolyte Composition on the Structural, Morphological, Optical, and Photo-electrochemical Properties

The fluoride species present in two different anodizing electrolytes were used to produce TiO2 nanotube arrays (TiO2 NTAs) by simultaneous anodic reaction and chemical dissolution. In this investigation, two different electrolytes were used for the preparation; [Eth-TiO2 NAs: 95 ml ethylene glycol+0.5% NH4F+5 ml DI water] and [Gly-TiO2 NAs: 75 ml glycerine+0.5% NH4F+25 ml DI water]. The effects of the prepared electrolytes used in the synthesis of TiO2 nanotube arrays on structural element composition, morphology, and optical properties are the focus of this study and are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy field emission (FE-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and UV-vis diffusion reflection spectroscopy (DRS), respectively. The photoelectrochemical properties of TiO2 NTAs prepared in different electrolytes were investigated. The photoelectrochemical performance of TiO2 NTAs in Na2SO3 (0.1 M) and Na2S (0.1) was examined under the light of 100 mW/cm2 from a xenon lamp. Comparing the photoelectrochemical (PEC) results of both electrolytes, we find that Eth-TiO2 NTAs contribute a wide surface area resulting in an enhanced PEC response. TiO2 NTs, which were prepared with Eth-TiO2 NTAs, exhibited the highest photocurrent density, 0.326 mA cm–2, and photoconversion efficiency (0.22%).

Efficient Adsorption and Degradation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride Using Metal-Organic Framework-Derived Cobalt-Based Catalysts and Mechanism Insight.

High-performance Co-based catalysts were derived by pyrolysis using synthesized MOFs as self-sacrificial templates. Various catalytic systems were constructed by peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to degrade tetracycline hydrochloride (TC). Adsorption-degradation efficiencies, cycle performance, dynamics, and the adsorption catalytic mechanism of various catalytic systems for TC were studied. The effects of different synthetic solvents, pyrolysis temperatures, and single/bimetallic element compositions on degradation efficiency were innovatively compared. The optimal catalyst and PMS dosage for the experiment were determined to be 10 mg and 0.1 mL, respectively. The results indicated that all catalytic systems could efficiently degrade TC and have a high acid-base resistance. The catalyst activity was significantly influenced by the pyrolysis temperature. The optimum pyrolysis temperatures for Zn@Co-N-C-T, CH3OH@Co-N-C-T, and H2O@Co-N-C-T were 1000, 900 and 900 °C, respectively. More abundant pore structures and active sites were generated in Zn@Co-N-C-1000, exhibiting an excellent TC degradation efficiency and adsorption capacity, achieving 94.73% and 167.564 mg/g, respectively. Meanwhile, the total organic carbon (TOC) of TC (50 mL, 50 mg/L) achieved a removal rate (TOC/TOC0) of 50.28%. Zn@Co-N-C-1000/PMS maintained over 83.27% TC degradation after five cycles. The adsorption mechanism of the catalyst for TC was investigated through the analysis of adsorption kinetics and isotherm models. The quenching test and EPR results indicated that TC was primarily degraded through the nonradical pathway. The efficient degradation of TC is attributed to the rapid electron transfer processes occurring at the two-phase interface and the redox cycling of Co0/Co2+/Co3+. Finally, LC-MS was used to analyze the intermediate products of TC degradation in the Zn@Co-N-C-1000/PMS system, and two degradation pathways were proposed.

Review of Laser Powder Bed Fusion’s Microstructure and Mechanical Characteristics for Al-Ce Alloys

As a new alloy manufacturing method that can break through the limitations of molds to manufacture fine parts, laser powder bed fusion has recently become a common process for producing aluminum alloys. In the fields of aerospace or automotive, aluminum alloys with both good printability and good mechanical performance in high-temperature conditions are greatly demanded, and the Al-Ce alloy is one of the alloys with significant potential. Therefore, systematic research on the additive manufacturing of Al-Ce alloys is still being explored. Herein, we review the recent progress and current status of laser powder bed fusion-produced Al-Ce alloys, giving our opinions on the development of this alloy system. Element composition, alloy powders, laser powder bed fusion parameters, microstructures, and mechanical properties at room temperature and high temperatures are summarized. The choice of alloying strategies is crucial for a specific mechanical improvement of the Al-Ce alloys. Finally, the details of the Al-Ce alloys manufactured via laser powder bed fusion are presented.

Substantial trace metal input from the 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption into the South Pacific

The January 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai (HTHH) volcano discharged 2,900 teragrams of ejecta, most of which was deposited in the South Pacific Ocean. Here we investigate its impact on the biogeochemistry of the South Pacific Gyre (SPG) using samples collected during the GEOTRACES cruise GP21 in February-April 2022. Surface water neodymium isotopes and rare earth element compositions showed a marked volcanic impact in the western SPG, potentially extending to the eastern region. Increasing trace metal concentrations in surface waters and chlorophyll-a inventories in euphotic layers between the eastern and western SPG further suggest that the volcanic eruption supplied (micro)nutrients potentially stimulating a biological response. We estimate that the HTHH eruption released up to 0.16 kt of neodymium and 32 kt of iron into the SPG, which is comparable to the annual global dust-borne Nd flux and the annual dust-borne Fe flux to the entire SPG, respectively.

Unravelling different mechanisms of metasomatism and geodynamic evolution of pyroxenite-veined subcontinental lithospheric mantle beneath the Central European Variscides

Abstract Pyroxenite-veined garnet peridotites from the Gföhl Unit of the Moldanubian Zone in the Bohemian Massif provide direct constraints on diverse mechanisms of mantle metasomatism and refertilization driven by a single pulse of melt beneath the Central European Variscides. Here, we provide a detailed study on an intriguing example of this rock association where the garnet peridotites show a fertile character (high Al2O3, CaO, TiO2), corresponding to the subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM). By contrast, their conspicuous LREE depletion and Sr–Nd isotopic signatures (87Sr/86Sr338 ≤ 0.7028; εNd338 ~7.3) are typical of depleted mantle residue after melt extraction. Such signatures reflect transformation of an original refractory protolith (likely harzburgite) to fertile lherzolite through percolation of primitive tholeiitic melts, parental to garnet pyroxenite in veins. The SCLM refertilization is further documented by the whole-rock positive correlation between incompatible elements (Zr, Yb, Sc, V), and trace element composition of clinopyroxene (high Ti/Eu and Ti/Nb) and garnet (elevated ∑REE, Zr, Ti). Trace element and Sr–Nd isotopic systematics of pyroxenites (87Sr/86Sr338 ~0.7025–0.7029; εNd338 ≤ 7.9) correspond to a source of melt similar to the depleted MORB mantle (DMM). Three mechanisms of metasomatism related to the interaction of this melt with the host peridotites were distinguished: (i) stealth metasomatism, reflected by extensive clinopyroxene and garnet crystallization in lherzolite adjacent to pyroxenite veins, (ii) cryptic metasomatism, recorded by lower Mg# values of orthopyroxene and olivine in lherzolite, and (iii) modal metasomatism, resulting in crystallization of amphibole and phlogopite in lherzolite close to the veins. The percolating basaltic melt was hydrous, moderately enriched in fluid-mobile elements (Cs, Rb, Ba, Pb, U, Li). Immiscible liquids, dense Ti-Mg-Fe-rich oxide melt and C-O-H fluid, trapped and crystallized as mono/multiphase solid inclusions in garnet, likely separated from a basaltic melt upon cooling. The lherzolite-pyroxenite interface reveals strong micro-scale element fractionation due to differentiation of a basaltic melt within the percolation channel. Volatile-bearing liquids that segregated from the melts migrating through wall-rock peridotites most likely caused chromatographic enrichment in highly incompatible elements (e.g. LREE) in distal peridotites relative to the LREE-depleted lherzolites adjacent to the veins. The DMM-like affinity of pyroxenites and pressure-temperature estimates for lherzolite (3.9–5.4 GPa/1010–1200 °C) and pyroxenites (2.8–4.2 GPa/860–1020 °C) point towards exhumation-driven SCLM refertilization. This was linked to decompression-induced partial melting of upwelling asthenosphere producing basaltic melts penetrating through and metasomatizing the SCLM beneath the Variscan orogenic belt in Central Europe.

Определение литологического состава осадочных пород для построения объемной модели по данным ГИС

The features of the lithological composition of productive sediments and their consideration in the petrophysical modeling of a volumetric model based on a GIS complex are considered. It is noted that on the basis of X-ray spectral and granulometric analysis, it is possible to obtain reliable information about the structure, texture, component and mineral composition in order to clarify the petrophysical characteristics of the rocks under study. Using the example of two hydrocarbon deposits “K” and “N” the results of determining the lithological composition of sedimentary rocks from core from different age terrigenous deposits are discussed in order to build a petrophysical model of the entire well section, taking into account the areas of lack of information from direct studies (sludge and core). Electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis are used to study finely dispersed (clay, siliceous, carbonate, etc.) rocks, which are especially important for accurate diagnosis of the mineral composition of rocks. In addition to the features of the geological structure of the deposit, the quantity and quality of the initial information largely determine the methods of constructing the model and the results obtained. The results of X-ray spectral analysis made it possible to determine the composition of chemical elements and the amount of each element in the sample. Information about the mineral composition of rocks and the lithological differences identified at the first stage are distributed to the part of the section where there is no or insufficient information on the core or sludge. The information obtained on the lithological composition of sediments gives the most complete picture of the geological structure of the section opened by the well and is further used as the basis of a volumetric model based on the data of geophysical surveys of GIS wells.

Marbles and meta-schists from Bidzar (North Region of Cameroon) : characteristics and the use of meta-schists as additives in experimenting blended cements production

Abstract This work presents the petrography and major element composition of marbles and meta-schists found in the Bidzar CIMENCAM marble quarry (North Region, Cameroon). Some of the studied rocks were selected and combined with other characterized raw materials to process schist-blended cements. Marbles are pure (white) or impure (pink, light to dark-grey, or dull yellow…) calcitic, dolomitic, or transitional type, and composed of CaO (32 -57 wt.%), MgO (0.49-24 wt.%), and SiO2 (0.09-8.4 wt.%). Meta-schists are bluish-green chlorite meta-schist, chlorite-bearing dark-grey meta-schist, and yellowish-green sericite meta-schist with SiO2 (26-47.3 wt.%), Al2O3 (11-16 wt.%), Fe2O3 (8-15 wt.%), CaO (3-26 wt.%), and MgO (4-15 wt.%). The used cement raw materials include: clinker, gypsum, marble additive, low CaO bluish-green chlorite meta-schist and low CaO chlorite-bearing dark-grey meta-schist. The two groups of manufactured blended cements mainly composed of CaO (64.2-64.6 wt.%), SiO2 (18.0-18.5 wt.%), are within the range in ASTM standard, and of some reference cements. The LSF (1.11-1.15), HM (2.6-2.8), SAR (4.6-5.1), SR (2.8-3.1), and AR (1.5-1.7), are within the range of some reference OPC. The proportion of free lime (0.92-1.25 %) is within the range 0.8-2.25 % for reference cement Multi X (CEMIX32.5R). The proportion of SO3 (1.6-2.3 %,), LOI (8.9-13.8 %), and IR (1.3-10.6 %), are partly close to those of reference cement and other OPC. The BSSA (4794 to 5794 cm2/g) and proportion of retained sieved fractions (4.13 to 11.1 %) place the processed cements within high fineness type. The setting time (130-245 min) seem to satify cement standards. The compressive strength tests show a decrease in strength with the increase in proportion of meta-schist; which could be due to the mineralogical composition of the used cements and their high IR.

Primitive asteroids as a major source of terrestrial volatiles.

The origins of Earth's volatiles are debated. Recent studies showed that meteorites display unique mass-independent isotopic signatures of the volatile element Zn, suggesting that Earth's Zn originated from materials derived from different regions of the Solar System. However, these studies largely omitted meteorites from the differentiated planetesimals thought to represent the Earth's building blocks, which underwent melting and substantial volatile loss. Here, we characterize the mass-independent Zn isotope compositions of meteorites from such planetesimals. We incorporate these results in mixing models that aim to reproduce Earth's abundance and isotope compositions of Zn and other elements. Our results suggest that, while differentiated planetesimals supplied ~70% of Earth's mass, they provided only ~10% of its Zn. The remaining Zn was supplied by primitive materials that did not experience melting and associated volatile loss. Combined with other findings, our results imply that an unmelted primitive material is likely required to establish the volatile budgets of the terrestrial planets.

Deep Learning-Based Fatigue Strength Prediction for Ferrous Alloy

As industrial development drives the increasing demand for steel, accurate estimation of the material’s fatigue strength has become crucial. Fatigue strength, a critical mechanical property of steel, is a primary factor in component failure within engineering applications. Traditional fatigue testing is both costly and time-consuming, and fatigue failure can lead to severe consequences. Therefore, the need to develop faster and more efficient methods for predicting fatigue strength is evident. In this paper, a fatigue strength dataset was established, incorporating data on material element composition, physical properties, and mechanical performance parameters that influence fatigue strength. A machine learning regression model was then applied to facilitate rapid and efficient fatigue strength prediction of ferrous alloys. Twenty characteristic parameters, selected for their practical relevance in engineering applications, were used as input variables, with fatigue strength as the output. Multiple algorithms were trained on the dataset, and a deep learning regression model was employed for the prediction of fatigue strength. The performance of the models was evaluated using metrics such as MAE, RMSE, R2, and MAPE. The results demonstrated the superiority of the proposed models and the effectiveness of the applied methodologies.

Global perspective of ecological risk of plastic pollution on soil microbial communities.

The impacts of plastic pollution on soil ecosystems have emerged as a significant global environmental concern. The progress in understanding how plastic pollution affects soil microbial communities and ecological functions is essential for addressing this issue effectively. A bibliometric analysis was conducted on the literature from the Web of Science Core Collection database to offer valuable insights into the dynamics and trends in this field. To date, the effects of plastic residues on soil enzymatic activities, microbial biomass, respiration rate, community diversity and functions have been examined, whereas the effects of plastic pollution on soil microbes are still controversial. To include a comprehensive examination of the combined effects of plastic residue properties (Type, element composition, size and age), soil properties (soil texture, pH) at environmentally relevant concentrations with various exposure durations under field conditions in future studies is crucial for a holistic understanding of the impact of plastic pollution on soil ecosystems. Risk assessment of plastic pollution, particularly for nanoplasctics, from the perspective of soil food web and ecosystem multifunctioning is also needed. By addressing critical knowledge gaps, scholars can play a pivotal role in developing strategies to mitigate the ecological risks posed by plastic pollution on soil microorganisms.

Improving the Performance of the Layered Nickel Manganese Oxide Cathode of Sodium-Ion Batteries by Direct Coating with Sodium Niobium Oxide.

This research highlights the efficacy of NaNbO3 as a coating for P2-Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2 cathodes in sodium-ion batteries. The coating enhances the kinetic behavior and cyclability of the electrochemical cells, as shown by electrochemical measurements. XRD analysis indicates that Nb does not incorporate into the cathode structure, implying a physical interaction between the coating and the cathode material. XRF analysis and EDX mapping confirm the actual composition and uniform dispersion of elements throughout the sample, while the electron micrographs evidence the occurrence of NaNbO3 particles modifying the surface of the layered oxide. The Ni4+/Ni3+ and Ni3+/Ni2+ redox pairs, along with the partially reversible oxidation of oxide to peroxide anions, contribute significantly to cell capacity, as revealed by XPS spectra. This last effect and the appearance of a co-intercalated phase at high voltage are positive factors to provide fast kinetics. Cyclic voltammograms show that samples coated with 2-3% NaNbO3 have superior rate capability, with high capacitive response and apparent diffusion coefficients. These samples also have low impedance at the electrode-electrolyte interface, which helps deliver a high capacity at 5C. Further cycling at 1C shows improved cyclability in the bare and 3% coated samples, due to their higher diffusion coefficients on charging. Notably, the 3% NaNbO3-coated sample exhibits excellent cyclability below 0 °C, making it a promising cathode material for sodium-ion batteries.

Optimization of density and cost in the prediction of solid solution formation of multicomponent metal alloys

Multicomponent alloys or high-entropy alloys (HEAs) are the most recent breakthroughs in the metal alloying area. Their unique possibilities in mechanical properties and their vast universe of combinations turn them into a highly active research area. The properties of HEAs depend on the solid solution formation, which can be predicted by calculation. Therefore, we present a method to simulate discrete compositions of the alloy elements in the software MD 2.0, created to calculate four parameters and provide their associated statuses to predict the solid solution formation in multicomponent alloys. The HEA CoCrCuFeNi was subjected to calculation in MD 2.0, and, if all the imposed restrictions and criteria are concomitantly attended: (a) the minimum density (8.426 g/cm3) solid solution formation refers to 33.122% Co, 6.491% Cr, 9.984% Cu, 34.909% Fe, and 15.494% Ni composition; (b) the minimum specific cost (US$/kg 7.560) under solid solution formation addresses 5.059% Co, 5.174% Cr, 31.553% Cu, 33.975% Fe, and 24.239% Ni composition. Given this result, it is possible to select the optimized composition of the alloy according to the design objective.

Risk assessment and quantification of elemental concentrations in river and stream in Nigeria

The rising prevalence of elements in surface water is becoming a major global environmental problem due to their resistance to change and capacity to accumulate in organisms. Humans are causing significant heavy metal contamination in the aquatic environment, which is killing aquatic creatures. The purpose of this study is to determine the elemental composition of surface water in Ogun State. Water samples were collected from a river that flows alongside Liberty Estate in Ewupe, Ado-Odo Ota Local Government Area, and a stream that runs alongside Pacific Estate in Iganmode. The element composition of water samples was determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Several components were found to exceed the limitations imposed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In River I, sodium (Na) had the highest apparent concentration, whereas titanium (Ti) had the lowest average concentration. In River II, silicon (Si) had the highest apparent concentration, whereas chromium (Cr) had the lowest average concentration. Titanium (Ti) had the lowest mean concentration value, whereas sodium (Na) appeared to have the highest concentration in stream I. Stream II has the highest concentration of sodium (Na), while Uranium (U) has the lowest average concentration value. Nonetheless, the incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values for adults and children who drink river and stream water are similar, ranging from 10–9 to 10–8. This implies a high carcinogenic risk (CR) linked with drinking water from both sources. Children who had access to both stream and river water demonstrated higher risk levels than adults. Routine studies of the state's streams and rivers should be conducted to avoid the subtle impact that may emanate from the water bodies.