Mineral Growth Research Articles

Rain-induced sodium dissolution and loose mineral mixture runoff in uncovered feeders: possible effects on mineral intake, growth performance, and nutritional needs fulfilment of grazing cattle

ABSTRACT The objective was to investigate the effect of rainfall on sodium (Na) dissolution and total losses by runoff of loose mineral mixtures (MM) available in uncovered feeders to grazing cattle, as well as the possible impacts on their growth performance and fulfilment of Na nutritional needs. Experiments (n = 7) were conducted to quantify the amount of Na lost due to rainfall and to evaluate the effects of different Na levels in the MM (35, 70, 105, and 140 g Na/kg) on MM assumed intake and growth performance. Cattle grazed Brachiaria sp. pastures and received free-choice MM in uncovered feeders throughout four to nine evaluation periods lasting 14 to 21 d each. MM assumed intake from the feeder was measured in each period as the difference between the supplied MM mass and the unconsumed MM mass. A new methodology was proposed to measure MM losses by runoff (exclusion feeder). The mass of runoff MM and the volume of runoff rainwater were both determined and analysed for their mineral content. The dietary Na requirement was estimated using different feeding systems. The minimum MM Na content to meet dietary Na requirements was estimated in different scenarios. Sodium chloride composed 28% of the runoff MM mass, in average. The action of rain may reduce MM Na content by 28% in a single rainfall event. Na content strongly affected MM assumed intake and, possibly, growth rate. MM losses by runoff were estimated at 25.5%, according to the exclusion feeder methodology. The minimum required MM Na content for meeting dietary Na needs may reach up to 87.3 g Na/kg. About 27% of evaluated periods may have failed to fully meet cattle Na requirements. The action of rain in unsheltered loos MM may result in unbalanced mineral consumption and unmet Na needs, leading to impaired mineral nutrition of grazing cattle, especially in tropical conditions.

A molecular view of peptoid-induced acceleration of calcite growth

The extensive deposits of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) generated by marine organisms constitute the largest and oldest carbon dioxide (CO2) reservoir. These organisms utilize macromolecules like peptides and proteins to facilitate the nucleation and growth of carbonate minerals, serving as an effective method for CO2 sequestration. However, the precise mechanisms behind this process remain elusive. In this study, we report the use of sequence-defined peptoids, a class of peptidomimetics, to achieve the accelerated calcite step growth kinetics with the molecular level mechanistic understanding. By designing peptoids with hydrophilic and hydrophobic blocks, we systematically investigated the acceleration in step growth rate of calcite crystals using in situ atomic force microscopy (AFM), varying peptoid sequences and concentrations, CaCO3 supersaturations, and the ratio of Ca2+/ HCO3-. Mechanistic studies using NMR, three-dimensional fast force mapping (3D FFM), and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) were conducted to reveal the interactions of peptoids with Ca2+ and HCO3- ions in solution, as well as the effect of peptoids on solvation and energetics of calcite crystal surface. Our results indicate the multiple roles of peptoid in facilitating HCO3- deprotonation, Ca2+ desolvation, and the disruption of interfacial hydration layers of the calcite surface, which collectively contribute to a peptoid-induced acceleration of calcite growth. These findings provide guidelines for future design of sequence-specific biomimetic polymers as crystallization promoters, offering potential applications in environmental remediation (such as CO2 sequestration), biomedical engineering, and energy storage where fast crystallization is preferred.

Gypsum Crystals Formed by the Anhydrite–Gypsum Transformation at Low Temperatures: Implications for the Formation of the Geode of Pulpí

Determining the mechanisms of the formation of giant crystals is a challenging subject. Gypsum, calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O), is known to form crystals larger than one meter in several locations worldwide. These selenite crystals grow at different temperatures, either in sedimentary or hydrothermal systems. The famous selenite crystals of the geode of Pulpí (Almería, Spain) are known to have grown at a temperature T = 20 ± 5 °C and have been proposed to form in a subaqueous environment by a self-feeding mechanism triggered by anhydrite dissolution and the ripening of microcrystalline gypsum, enhanced by oscillations in temperature. This paper reports the monitored crystallization of gypsum crystals, from anhydrite powder dissolution, inside airtight evaporation-free reactors under oscillating low temperatures (15 °C < T < 25 °C). These crystals are clearly smaller than the ones in the Pulpí mine but exhibit similar habits (i.e., single blocky crystals and twins following the 100 twinning law). The growth rate of gypsum single crystals has been measured to be between 3.8 and 35.3 µm/day. Noteworthy, we document the occurrence of the 100 contact twinning law of gypsum, which is the most widespread twinning law in natural environments but never univocally reported in laboratory experiments. The selection of the 100 contact twinning law has been correlated to the low supersaturation values obtained in the experiment, where the concentration in these long-duration experiments can be safely assumed to be the equilibrium concentration, i.e., 0.3 (at 25 °C) ≤ SI ≤ 0.4 (at 15 °C). We discuss the relevance of our experiment for forming the gypsum crystals of Pulpí in the framework of the geological history of Pulpí mineralization. These laboratory model experiments contribute to a deeper understanding of mineral nucleation and growth processes in natural environments.

The impact of cultivation technology elements on the productivity of the soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) variety ‘Hoverla’ in the Prykarpattia region

Purpose. To study the formation of the productivity of the ‘Hoverla’ soybean variety using different elements of cultivation technology. Methods. Field, laboratory, statistical (calculation­comparative, mathematical­statistical). Results. The effectiveness of spring chisel ploughing for the cultivation of the soyabean variety ‘Hoverla’ in the soil and climatic conditions of the Prykarpattia region was established. The positive effect of the studied tillage methods on the phytosanitary condition of the crop was noted. In particular, the combination of autumn ploughing and spring chisel ploughing with the application of N30P30K30 mineral fertiliser and double foliar spraying of crops with a growth regulator led to an increase in the competitiveness of plants against weeds and reduced the number of weeds by 46.2% compared to the control. The implementation of the above measures also contributed to an increase in yield to 2.48 t/ha, or 57.0% on average over three years. At the same time, the yield of forage units and digestible protein increased by 1.35 and 0.3 t/ha respectively. Conclusions. Spring chisel ploughing, together with autumn ploughing and a rational combination of the predecessor’s by­products, the proposed doses of mineral fertiliser and growth regulator in the conditions of the Prykarpattia region, helped to reduce the weediness of crops by 46.2% and increase the yield of the ‘Ho­verla’ soybean variety by 57.0%.

Simulating Compaction and Cementation of Clay Grain Coated Sands in a Modern Marginal Marine Sedimentary System

Reservoir quality prediction in deeply buried reservoirs represents a complex challenge to geoscientists. In sandstones, reservoir quality is determined by the extent of compaction and cementation during burial. During compaction, porosity is lost through the rearrangement and fracture of rigid grains and the deformation of ductile grains. During cementation, porosity is predominantly lost through the growth of quartz cement, although carbonate and clay mineral growth can be locally important. The degree of quartz cementation is influenced by the surface area of quartz available for overgrowth nucleation and thermal history. Clay grain coats can significantly reduce the surface area of quartz available for overgrowth nucleation, preventing extensive cementation. Using a coupled-effect compaction and cementation model, we have forward-modelled porosity evolution of surface sediments from the modern Ravenglass Estuary under different maximum burial conditions, between 2000 and 5000 m depth, to aid the understanding of reservoir quality distribution in a marginal marine setting. Seven sand-dominated sub-depositional environments were subject to five burial models to assess porosity-preservation in sedimentary facies. Under relatively shallow burial conditions (<3000 m), modelled porosity is highest (34 to 36%) in medium to coarse-grained outer-estuary sediments due to moderate sorting and minimal fine-grained matrix material. Fine-grained tidal flat sediments (mixed flats) experience a higher degree of porosity loss due to elevated matrix volumes (20 to 31%). Sediments subjected to deep burial (>4000 m) experience a significant reduction in porosity due to extensive quartz cementation. Porosity is reduced to 1% in outer estuary sediments that lack grain-coating clays. However, in tidal flat sediments with continuous clay grain coats, porosity values of up to 30% are maintained due to quartz cement inhibition. The modelling approach powerfully emphasises the value of collecting quantitative data from modern analogue sedimentary environments to reveal how optimum reservoir quality is not always in the coarsest or cleanest clastic sediments.

Laser powder bed fusion printed poly-ether-ether-ketone/bioactive glass composite scaffolds with dual-scale pores for enhanced osseointegration and bone ingrowth

Although poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) implants hold significant medical promise, their bioinert nature presents challenges in osseointegration and bone ingrowth within clinical contexts. To mitigate these challenges, the present study introduces Diamond PEEK/bioactive glass (BG) composite scaffolds, characterized by macro/micro dual-porous structures, precisely fabricated via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology. The findings indicate that an increase in BG content within these scaffolds significantly augments their hydrophilicity and hydroxyapatite formation capacities. Stress-strain curve analysis demonstrates reliable load-bearing stability across all scaffold types. In vitro assessments confirmed the non-cytotoxicity of PEEK/BG samples and demonstrated improved osteogenic differentiation and mineralization with increased BG incorporation. Further, in vivo experiments illustrated that the Diamond porous structure of these scaffolds facilitated bone growth, an effect notably amplified with higher BG content. Particularly in groups with 15 wt.% and 25 wt.% BG scaffolds, new bone formation was observed not only within the macropores of the Diamond structure but also within the micropores inside the scaffold rod, suggesting an almost seamless fusion with the new bone. This demonstrates the scaffolds’ effective osteointegration and bone ingrowth properties. This study conclusively established the effectiveness of Diamond-structured PEEK/BG composite scaffolds, fabricated via LPBF, in bone repair. It highlights the crucial role of BG in enhancing osteogenic potential through interaction with the macro/micro pores of the scaffold. Statement of significanceThis study addresses the bioinert nature of PEEK implants by developing Diamond-structured PEEK/bioactive glass (BG) composite scaffolds by laser powder bed fusion. The dual-porous macro/microstructure enhances hydrophilicity and hydroxyapatite formation, vital for bone regeneration. By adjusting the BG content, we controlled the melt viscosity and sintering rate, leading to the formation of beneficial microscale pores. These pores resolve the issue of ineffective bioactive fillers in previous LPBF-fabricated scaffolds, enhancing the osteogenic potential of BG and inducing superior bone ingrowth and osseointegration. In vitro and in vivo analyses show enhanced osteogenic differentiation, mineralization, and bone growth, underscoring the clinical potential of these scaffolds for bone repair.

The effect of citric acid on mineralisation and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion from apical papilla stem cells.

To investigate the influence of citric acid on the osteogenic and angiogenic potential of stem cells from apical papillae (SCAPs). Stem cells from apical papillae were isolated from freshly extracted third permanent molars. These cells were treated with 20 and 100 μM citric acid. Alizarin red staining was used to evaluate mineral deposition. The secreted levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were assessed by ELISA on days 18, 24 and 28. Immunofluorescence analysis was performed to assess the expression of surface markers after exposure to 20 and 100 μM citric acid. Different mineralisation patterns were observed. Supplemented with citric acid, media showed more diffuse and less dense crystals. On day 18, most VEGF was secreted from the cells with no added citric acid. On day 24, there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the levels of VEGF secreted from cells treated with 20 μM citric acid. On day 28, cells from the control group did not secrete VEGF. There was a reduction in the levels of VEGF secreted by cells treated with 20 μM citric acid and a significant increase in the cells exposed to 100 μM citric acid (p < 0.05). Citric acid can promote the differentiation of SCAPs and angiogenesis.

Hydrothermal activity near the Permian–Triassic transition in the south‐western Ordos Basin, China: Evidence from carbonate cementation in Upper Permian sandstones

ABSTRACTCarbonate cementation in the Upper Permian sandstones informs the timing and temperature of hydrothermal activity in the south‐western Ordos Basin. This study presents a detailed examination of these hydrothermally influenced carbonate cements, constraining their age, carbonate diagenesis and relationship with regional geodynamic evolution. Sedimentological analyses demonstrate the development of deltaic plain and front sand bodies in the study area, which resulted in interbeds of volcanic matrix‐rich sandstones with matrix‐free sandstones. Petrography and electron microprobe analysis reveal four carbonate mineral growth phases of matrix‐free sandstones in the following sequence; scarce pure siderite, scarce Mg‐rich siderite, abundant blocky calcite and moderately abundant grain‐replacing calcite. The fluid inclusion data show anomalies of homogenization temperature of blocky carbonate cements during early diagenesis, over a wide range of ca 148 to 228°C. In addition, blocky carbonate cements show low δ13C (−5.9 to −13.1‰ Vienna PeeDee Belemnite) and δ18O (clustered tightly from −12.4 to −14.6‰ Vienna PeeDee Belemnite) values, interpreted to result from elevated temperatures during cementation, associated with activation of basement faults and concomitant hydrothermal fluid intrusion triggered by oceanic crust subduction in the south‐west margin of the Ordos Basin. Using in situ calcite U–Pb geochronology, the timing of hydrothermal activity was constrained to ca 247.0 ± 11 to 248.2 ± 4.7 Ma. This work provides a case study for applying intergranular calcite U–Pb dating to determine the absolute timing of fluid flow in sedimentary basins, offering tremendous potential to capture snapshots of various diagenetic evolution stages in sediments. The proposed diagenetic model can also provide new insights and understanding regarding hydrothermally influenced sediments. More importantly, hydrothermal activity may have commenced earlier than previously thought. The North Qinling Orogen uplift and associated Mianlue oceanic crust subduction may have begun at the Permian–Triassic transition with a protracted hydrothermal event in the south‐western Ordos Basin.

Seriation of Enzyme-Functionalized Multilayers for the Design of Scalable Biomimetic Mineralized Structures.

Biomimetic hydroxyapatites are widely explored for their potential applications in the repair of mineralized tissues, particularly dental enamel, which is acellular and, thus, not naturally reformed after damage. Enamel is formed with a highly-controlled hierarchical structure, which is difficult to replicate up to the macroscale. A biomimetic approach is thus warranted, based on the same principles that drive biomineralization in vivo. Herein, a strategy for the design of enamel-like architectures is described, utilizing enzymes embedded in polyelectrolyte multilayers to generate inorganic phosphate locally, and provide a favorable chemical environment for the nucleation and growth of minerals. Moreover, a method is proposed to build up seriated mineral layers with scalable thicknesses, continuous mineral growth, and tunable morphology. Results show the outstanding growth of cohesive mineral layers, yielding macroscopic standalone fluoride and/or carbonate-substituted hydroxyapatite materials with comparable crystal structure and composition to native human mineralized tissues. This strategy presents a promising path forward for the biomimetic design of biomineral materials, particularly relevant for restorative applications, with an exquisite level of synthetic control over multiple orders of magnitude.

Dissolution Mechanisms and Surface Charge of Clay Mineral Nanoparticles: Insights from Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulations

The widespread use of clay minerals and clays in environmental engineering, industry, medicine, and cosmetics largely stems from their adsorption properties and surface charge, as well as their ability to react with water. The dissolution and growth of minerals as a function of pH are closely related to acid–base reactions at their surface sites and their surface charge. The vivid tapestry of different types of surface sites across different types of clay minerals generates difficulties in experimental studies of structure–property relationships. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how a mesoscale stochastic kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) approach altogether with atomistic acid-base models and empirical data can be used for understanding the mechanisms of dissolution and surface charge behavior of clay minerals. The surface charge is modeled based on equilibrium equations for de/protonated site populations, which are defined by the pH and site-specific acidity constants (pKas). Lowered activation energy barriers for these sites in de/protonated states introduce pH-dependent effects into the dissolution kinetics. The V-shaped curve observed in laboratory experiments is reproduced with the new kMC model. A generic rate law for clay mineral dissolution as a function of pH is derived from this study. Thus, the kMC approach can be used as a hypothesis-testing tool for the verification of acid–base models for clay and other minerals and their influence on the kinetics of mineral dissolution and growth.

A failed search for concordancy across multiple isotopic systems in lunar impactites: Implications for testing the Late Heavy Bombardment hypothesis

Investigations of Apollo-returned samples radically altered our understanding of lunar history which has important implications for terrestrial habitability and Solar System evolution. Radiometric dating of those samples inspired the hypothesis that Moon experienced a Late Heavy Bombardment (LHB) at ∼3.9 Ga. The LHB concept has come under several recent challenges, including the concern that 40Ar/39Ar step-heating dates of Apollo impactites had been misinterpreted. Ultraviolet laser ablation (UVLAMP) 40Ar/39Ar dates – with their capacity for much higher spatial resolution and thus potential to avoid dating near-ubiquitous clasts in impact melt rocks – should in principle provide more interpretable results. Here we compare new ion microprobe 207Pb/206Pb accessory mineral dates for two Apollo 17 impactites for which UVLAMP 40Ar/39Ar dates had been previously obtained. Our results are consistent with a single accessory phase growth event for each sample, though the two samples yielded statistically different mean ages of ca. 3.974±0.013 and 3.928±0.003 Ga. Both can reasonably be interpreted as dating an impact event, but the 207Pb/206Pb dates are older than the associated 40Ar/39Ar dates by several hundred million years. We interpret that the age differences result from subsequent thermal disturbances. The discordancy between impact ages inferred from lunar impactites using two different radiometric systems suggests caution in acceptance of the LHB hypothesis without the benefit of both larger lunar datasets and more multichronometric studies. Even with such information, our capacity to know the lunar bombardment history is likely limited by compositional and thermal effects which appear to restrict growth of impact-produced accessory minerals to a small fraction of the lunar surface. Using currently available datasets, the LHB hypothesis may be effectively untestable.

Technology Focus: Oilfield Chemistry (September 2024)

In an era marked by a growing emphasis on sustainability, industries are increasingly adopting innovative technologies to address resource-management challenges and environmental impacts. Three notable advancements in this field are the extraction of lithium from produced water, the use of rhamnolipids as biosurfactants, and the application of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as scale inhibitors. Each of these technologies offers a unique approach to improving efficiency and reducing environmental footprint. Lithium, a critical component in lithium-ion batteries used for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, has seen a surge in demand. Traditionally, lithium is extracted through energy-intensive methods such as mining hard rock deposits or evaporating brines from salt flats. A novel approach, however, involves extracting lithium from produced water, a byproduct of oil and gas extraction. Produced water, once considered waste, contains dissolved minerals, including lithium. This method involves treating the water to remove contaminants, and chemical processes such as adsorption or ion exchange to concentrate and isolate lithium ions. By repurposing produced water, this approach not only reduces the environmental impact of oil and gas operations but also provides a valuable domestic source of lithium, enhancing energy security, generating additional revenue streams, and reducing reliance on imports. Rhamnolipids—a class of biosurfactants produced by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa—are gaining recognition for their eco-friendly and versatile applications. Rhamnolipids are glycolipid compounds consisting of rhamnose sugar rings linked to fatty acid chains, and they exhibit exceptional emulsifying and surface-tension-reducing properties. Their biodegradability and reduced toxicity compared with synthetic surfactants make them suitable for various applications. In environmental bioremediation, rhamnolipids enhance the breakdown of hydrophobic pollutants in contaminated soils and water bodies, such as hydrocarbons. This capability is particularly valuable in addressing oil spills and other environmental disasters. Additionally, rhamnolipids are increasingly used in personal-care products because of their gentle cleansing properties and potential to enhance the absorption of active ingredients. As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives rises, rhamnolipids represent a promising shift toward sustainable industrial practices. In the oil and gas industry, the problem of scaling—where mineral layers deposit on surfaces, hindering fluid flow and causing equipment damage—has led to the exploration of GNPs as a solution. GNPs are distinguished by their high surface area, chemical stability, mechanical strength, and dispersibility. They act as nucleation sites that alter the crystal growth of scaling minerals, preventing the formation of hard, adherent layers. Additionally, GNPs can adsorb scaling ions, reducing their concentration in the fluid and decreasing scale formation. In squeeze treatments, where scale inhibitors are injected into reservoirs, GNPs can adsorb onto rock surfaces and release slowly over time, offering long-term protection. Their robustness under high temperatures and pressures makes them particularly effective for such applications. While further research is needed to optimize their use fully, GNPs offer significant potential to improve the efficiency and longevity of industrial operations. By repurposing waste, using eco-friendly compounds, and enhancing operational efficiency, these technologies contribute to a more-sustainable and resource-efficient future. As industries navigate the complexities of environmental and economic challenges, integrating such innovations will be crucial in achieving global sustainability goals and fostering a balanced approach to resource management. Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org. OTC 32809 Impacts of Water-in-Oil Emulsion and Stage Equilibrium for Produced Water Analysis With Benchtop XRF by V.C.C. Gallo, Petrobras, et al. SPE 218053 Critical Elements Extraction From Flowback and Produced Water: From Lab to Field by A. Ghanizadeh, University of Calgary, et al.

Листовые подкормки при возделывании козлятника восточного на орошении

To strengthen the fodder base of animal husbandry in the Lower Volga region, first of all, it is necessary to expand the range of fodder crops and varieties, to optimize their nutritional regime, to create optimal conditions for their cultivation, in other words, to ensure the production of a large amount of valuable fodder in a relatively limited area, in this regard, the improvement of cultivation technology of eastern goatgrass is relevant. The purpose of the research was to increase the efficiency of cultivation of oriental goatgrass in the Lower Volga region through the use of mineral fertilizers and growth stimulants. Experiments to study the dependence of productivity of oriental goatgrass in the form of green mass on leaf fertilization with water-soluble mineral fertilizers were conducted from 2016 to 2023 on an irrigated plot with irrigation regime of 70...85...70 % NV by sprinkler machine “Valey”. In the experiment in 2017, varieties of oriental goatgrass Krivich, Yubilyar, Kazbek were sown. The general background before sowing was applied mineral fertilizers in the form of azofosk at a dose of N24P24K24. In each cutting in the phase of active growth of plants were fertilized with potassium monophosphate with and without a sticking agent at the rate of 0.5 kg/ha for one fertilizer. On average for seven years, the largest leaf area - 43.7 thousand m2/ha and photosynthetic potential - 7.87 million m2 x dn./ha of oriental goatgrass in the experiment were in the variety Jubilar in the variant of potassium monophosphate with a sticking agent. On average for seven years, the largest leaf area - 43.7 thousand m2/ha and photosynthetic potential - 7.87 million m2 x dn/ha of oriental goatgrass in the experiment were in the variety Jubilar in the variant of potassium monophosphate with a sticking agent. Also on this variant the maximum yield of green mass - 92.7 t/ha, dry matter content - 23.2 t/ha, fodder units - 20.4 t/ha and exchangeable energy - 1.62 GJ/ha were observed.

The role of deformation on the early crystallization and rheology of basaltic liquids

This study highlights the rheological variation of magmatic systems during the early crystallization stage, which undergoes very different shear stress. Etna basaltic glass, made from natural rock powder, was used as a starting material. Nine shear rate-controlled experiments were conducted at 1150 °C (below liquidus temperature and undercooling degree ΔT ∼ 40 °C) with shear rates (γ˙) of 0.1, 1 and 10 s−1 using wide-gap concentric cylinder viscometry. Three additional experiments were conducted without spinning the melts (no shear, γ˙= 0 s−1). Run-products were collected after 3, 6 and 9 h. The experiment with the highest shear rate (γ˙=10s−1) showed a brittle failure when viscosity reached the value of 2.90 log (Pa·s) and after ca. 1150s. The measured viscosity matches the shear stress at 7244 Pa, corresponding to the brittle failure in our partly crystallised system at these conditions. After 9 h, the response of the partly crystallised Etna basalt to different deformation rates results in decreasing viscosity from 4.89 to 3.83 and 2.90 (log Pa s) as the γ˙ increases from 0.1 to 1 and 10 s−1, respectively. The main outcome of this study relates to the nucleation and growth of minerals with shear deformation. The deformation-free (γ˙ = 0 s−1) runs show the presence of only two phases: glass and Fe-oxides (Fe-ox) with only a few vol% (1–3) of oxides crystals after 3, 6 and 9 h. The deformation-bearing (γ˙ = 0.1, 1 and 10 s−1) runs show different scenarios: after 3 h, we observed only Fe-ox for a γ˙ of 0.1 s−1 (similar to deformation-free ones). As the shear rate increases to 1 s−1 and 10 s−1, solid phases after 3 h experiments are Fe-ox, plagioclase and clinopyroxene. Crystal growth rate depends on the applied shear rate: the highest rate is 1.1 × 10−6 cm/s and was measured for plagioclase after a 3 h experiment for γ˙ = 10 s−1. At γ˙ = 0.1 s−1, the plagioclase growth rate decreases to 2.70 and 1.35 × 10−6 cm/s as experimental time increases from 6 to 9 h, respectively. The vast range of shear stress and the systematic data obtained in this study are fundamental to deciphering crystallization dynamics suffered by magmas in volcanic reservoirs, dikes, conduits and lavas.

Phage Display Panning on Silica: Optimization of Elution Conditions for Selection of Strong Binders.

Phage display panning is a powerful tool to select strong peptide binders to a given target, and when applied to inorganic materials (e.g., silica) as a target, it provides information on binding events and molecular recognition at the peptide-mineral interface. The panning process has limitations with the phage chemical elution being affected by bias toward positively charged binders, resulting in the potential loss of information on binder diversity; the presence of fast growing phages with an intrinsic growth advantage; and the presence of false positives from target unrelated peptides. To overcome some of these limitations, we developed a panning approach based on the sequential use of different eluents (Gly-HCl, pH-2.2; MgCl2, pH-6.1; and TEA, pH-11.0), or pH conditions (Gly-HCl 2.2 < pH < 11.0) that allows the identification of a diverse and comprehensive pool of strong binders. We have assessed and tested the authenticity of the identified silica binders via a complementary experimental (in vivo phage recovery rates and TEM imaging) and bioinformatics approach. We provide experimental evidence of the nonspecificity of the Gly-HCl eluent as typically used. Using a fluorimetric assay, we investigate in vitro binding of two peptides that differ by pI-S4 (HYIDFRW, pI 7.80) and S5 (YSLKQYQ, pI 9.44)─modified at the C terminal with an amide group to simulate net charges in the phage display system, confirming the vital role of electrostatic interactions as driving binding forces in the phage panning process. The presented optimized phage panning approach provides an opportunity to match known surface interactions at play with suitable elution conditions; to select only sequences relevant to a particular interfacial system. The approach has the potential to open up avenues to design interfacial systems to advance our understanding of peptide-assisted mineral growth, among other possibilities.

Hydration of mafic crustal rocks at high temperature during brittle‐viscous deformation along a strike‐slip plate boundary

AbstractThe Poroshiri ophiolite (Hidaka metamorphic belt, Japan) occurs within a crustal‐scale network of high‐temperature, dextral shear zones that accommodated hundreds of kilometres of displacement due to the opening of the Japan Sea in the Neogene. The opholitic rocks comprise ultramafic, mafic and sedimentary protoliths that have been variably hydrated and metamorphosed. This work investigates the mechanisms and timing of fluid influx relative to viscous deformation in metagabbros and amphibolites deformed during exhumation from granulite‐ to amphibolite‐facies conditions. We consider a range of microstructures, from low strain domains and 1–2 mm thick shear bands to mylonites with a thickness of a few meters. Low strain domains of metagabbros exhibit corona textures with symplectites consisting of pargasitic amphibole (Ed0.7) ‐ anorthitic plagioclase (An80–92) ± orthopyroxene ± clinopyroxene forming around olivine and igneous pyroxene and with similar plagioclase–amphibole‐orthopyroxene ± clinopyroxene granoblastic aggregates in micrometric‐thick fractures. These textures result from hydration under low fluid‐rock ratio, with elevated H2O content only occurring locally (H2O &gt; 1–1.2 wt%). Igneous mineral replacement leads to grain size reduction from 1 mm to ~10 μm. Amphibole exhibits a strong core‐rim zonation primarily controlled by the high diffusivity of Fe, Mg and OH and the low diffusivity of Al. Mineral compositional equilibrium is achieved at the scale of 100–200 μm. In mm‐thick localized shear bands and in metric‐scale mylonitic amphibolites, the heterogeneous mineral composition of amphibole (Ed0.2–0.5) and plagioclase (An40−An80) indicates only partial re‐equilibration (at the scale of 200–500 μm) despite higher fluid‐rock ratios and more pervasive fluid percolation than in metagabbros. Plagioclase–amphibole thermometry and equilibrium phase diagrams indicate that the initial fluid infiltration and corona formation occurred at 800–850°C by fracturing and percolation along grain boundaries. This was followed by the main fluid percolation and mylonitization event, which occurred during exhumation and cooling at conditions of 720–580°C, ~4 kbar. Continuous hydration during retrogression was achieved by the influx of dominantly seawater‐derived fluid, as attested by the high chlorine (Cl) contents (&gt;300–400 ppm) of amphiboles in fractures. The heterogeneous distribution of fractures controls the distribution of fluid from the earliest stages of hydration, creating positive feedback where the growth of hydrous minerals as amphibole (up to +300 vol% of amphibole in high strain areas relative to the low‐strain ones) and the formation of fine‐grained mixed domains that led to further localization of viscous strain and mass transfer (variations of ± 30–40% in major elements). The Poroshiri ophiolite therefore represents a good fossil example of a former transpressional plate boundary where coupled metamorphic and deformation processes were triggered by seawater‐derived fluid that percolated to depths of ~15 km.

The Effect of Grass Juices on The Agricultural Properties of Legumes Grown in Different Root Media

The consumption of grass juices obtained from cereals for health purposes is increasing day by day. For this purpose, research on different plant solutions has gained momentum. In our study, barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) grass juices grown in hydroponic conditions were used. Obtained grass juices were applied to pea and lupine seeds in 100% soil (control), 100% pumice, 100% perlite, 100% tea waste and 100% cocopeat substrate. Germination percentage, germination rate, average daily germination, peak value, germination value, root dry and fresh weight, stem dry and fresh weight, root and stem length, plant yield, grass yield, plant yield seed rate, macro and micro (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) mineral substance contents were investigated pea and lupine. Grass juices were obtained by mowing barley and oat seeds sown in 30 × 50 × 7 cm plastic tubs in ten days and passing them through a juicer. Pea and lupine 25 seeds, which were placed in each pot, were grown in different root media (100% soil, 100% cocopeat, 100% pumice, 100% perlite, and 100% tea waste) under in vitro conditions. 150 ml of water (control), barley grass juice, oat grass juice and barley + oat grass juice were applied to the seeds according to their subjects. The experiment was carried out in 400 pots with 10 replications x 2 species x 4 treatments x 5 media, according to the factorial fully randomised design. As a result of the research, germination physiology (germination percentage, germination rate, average daily germination, peak value and germination value), mineral substance content (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn), growth and yield parameters at (root dry and wet weight, stem dry and wet weight, root and stem length, plant yield, grass yield, plant yield seed rate) barley grass juice application was found to be more effective than other applications after control. In all parameters examined in the research, it was determined that the five different medias used as growing media followed the order of soil&gt;cocopeat&gt;pumice&gt;perlite&gt;tea waste, and after the control and the best growing medium was cocopeat.

Chiral gypsum with high‐performance mechanical properties induced by self‐assembly of chiral amino acid on an amorphous mineral

AbstractFunctional chiral suprastructures are common in biology, including in biomineralization, and they are frequently found in many hardened structures of both marine and terrestrial invertebrates, and even in pathologic human otoconia of the inner ear. However, the biological processes by which they form remain unclear. Here, we show that chiral hierarchical suprastructures of calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum) can be induced by the chiral Aspartic acid (Asp). Left‐handed (clockwise) morphology of gypsum is induced by the d‐enantiomer of Asp, while right‐handed (counterclockwise) morphology is induced by the l‐enantiomer. A layer‐by‐layer, oriented inclination mineral growth model controlled by continuous self‐assembly of chiral Asp enantiomers on an amorphous calcium sulfate mineral surface of gypsum platelet layers is postulated to produce these chiral architectures. This hybrid amorphous‐crystallized chiral and hierarchical suprastructure of gypsum displays outstanding mechanical properties, including high‐performance strength and toughness. Furthermore, the induction of chiral gypsum suprastructures can be more generally extended from specific acidic amino acids to other (nonamino acid) molecules. These findings contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which biomineral‐associated enantiomers exert structural control over chiral architectures commonly seen in biominerals and in biomimetically synthesized functional materials.

P-T paths of contact metamorphism constraints on emplacement mechanism of magmas of the zoned Fangshan granitic Plutons, Zhoukoudian, Western Hills of Beijing, China

P-T path of a contact aureole can provide important insights into the magma emplacement mechanism for nearly concentrically zoned granitic plutons. The Mesoproterozoic Xiamaling formation immediately adjacent to the southern Fangshan granitic Plutons in the Western Hills of Beijing, China, developed three contact metamorphic prograde staurolite zone, sillimanite zone and K-feldspar zone. These zones preserved corroded pink-andalusite wrapped by pale-andalusite, corroded garnet inclusion inside the K-feldspar porphyroblasts and staurolite, which add to well-established sequences of mineral growth. These sequences allow reconstruction of the complete P-T path for each prograde zone on the pseudosection diagram obtained by full system composition-based phase equilibrium modeling The resultant prograde P-T paths are composed of two segments, with the first one isobaric heating and the second distinct compression and heating. The staurolite zone shows the P-T path initiating from ∼2.0 kbar/350 °C to ∼1.8 kbar/510 °C and ending at ∼3.3 kbar/580 °C. The sillimanite zone path began from ∼2.0 kbar/350 °C to ∼1.5 kbar/500 °C then ended at ∼3.8 kbar/580 °C. The K-feldspar zone path started from ∼2.0 kbar/350 °C to ∼1.7 kbar/510 °C, then terminated at ∼3.5 kbar/670 °C, approaching the initial partial melting temperature condition, then documented a retrograde path cooling down to ∼630 °C. The two prograde P-T path segments of the three zones suggest a in situ heating followed by a ductile return flow from ∼7 km down to ∼11 km depth of the metapelites from the Xiamaling formation, responsable to a diapiric emplacement of the magmas for the zoned composite Fangshan Plutons.

Elasmoid fish scales as a natural fibre composite: microscopic heterogeneities in structure, mineral distribution, and mechanical properties.

The elasmoid scales in teleost fish serve as exemplary models for natural fibre composites with integrated flexibility and protection. Yet, limited research has been focused on the potential structural, chemical, and mechanical heterogeneity within individual scales. This study presents systematic characterizations of the elasmoid scales from black drum fish (Pogonias cromis) at different zones within individual scales as a natural fibre composite, focusing on the microscopic structural heterogeneities and corresponding mechanical effects. The focus field at the centre of the scales exhibits a classical tri-layered collagen-based composite design, consisting of the mineralized outermost limiting layer, external elasmodine layer in the middle, and the unmineralized internal elasmodine layer. In comparison, the rostral field at the anterior end of the scales exhibits a two-layered design: the mineralized outermost limiting layer exhibits radii sections on the outer surface, and the inner elasmodine layer consists of collagen fibre-based sublayers with alternating mineralization levels. Chemical and nanoindentation analysis suggests a close correlation between the mineralization levels and the local nanomechanical properties. Comparative finite element modelling shows that the rostral-field scales achieve increased flexibility under both concave and convex bending. Moreover, the evolving geometries of isolated Mandle's corpuscles in the internal elasmodine layer, transitioning from irregular shapes to faceted octahedrons, suggest the mechanisms of mineral growth and space-filling to thicken the mineralized layers in scales during growth, which enhances the bonding strength between the adjacent collagen fibre layers. This work offers new insights into the structural variations in individual elasmoid scales, providing strategies for bioinspired fibre composite designs with local-adapted functional requirements.