Polarization Studies Research Articles

Corrosion inhibition performance of expired amlodipine on cupronickel alloy in a neutral chloride environment: electrochemical and surface analysis

Purpose The corrosion of cupronickel and copper alloys in marine and chloride environments presents significant challenges in the chemical and petrochemical industries. This paper aims to investigate the corrosion inhibition of cupronickel alloy (Cu-10Ni) in a sodium chloride medium using expired amlodipine as a corrosion inhibitor. The use of this drug in its expired form could reduce the costs of corrosion and help mitigate the accumulation of pharmaceutical waste. Design/methodology/approach The inhibitory action was evaluated using a weight loss method, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The effect of temperature on the inhibition performance was also studied. Findings The results of these experiments demonstrated that the drug amlodipine effectively inhibited the corrosion of cupronickel alloy in chloride solutions. The corrosion rate of cupronickel was found to decrease with increasing inhibitor concentration and to increase with rising temperature. A maximum inhibition efficiency of 91.92 was achieved with an inhibitor concentration of 0.025 g/L at 298 K. Adsorption of the inhibitor followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Polarization studies indicated that the expired drug acted as a mixed inhibitor. SEM and AFM analyses confirmed that the surface morphology of cupronickel specimens was significantly improved in the presence of the inhibitor. Practical implications Amlodipine can be conveniently used to mitigate problems with the corrosion of copper alloys in chloride environments. Originality/value Amlodipine is evaluated as a novel and effective corrosion inhibitor for cupronickel alloy in neutral chloride environments.

Patterns of partisan toxicity and engagement reveal the common structure of online political communication across countries.

Existing studies of political polarization are often limited to a single country and one form of polarization, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Here we investigate patterns of polarization online across nine countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Turkey, UK, USA), focusing on the structure of political interaction networks, the use of toxic language targeting out-groups, and how these factors relate to user engagement. First, we show that political interaction networks are structurally polarized on Twitter (currently X). Second, we reveal that out-group interactions, defined by the network, are more toxic than in-group interactions, indicative of affective polarization. Third, we show that out-group interactions receive lower engagement than in-group interactions. Finally, we identify a common ally-enemy structure in political interactions, show that political mentions are more toxic than apolitical mentions, and highlight that interactions between politically engaged accounts are limited and rarely reciprocated. These results hold across countries and represent a step towards a stronger cross-country understanding of polarization.

Discovery of the preferred direction of electric vector position angle rotations in blazars

Blazars are a subclass of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) with a high optical linear polarization that originates in relativistic jets. Polarization parameters such as the degree of polarization (PD) and the electric vector position angle (EVPA) are directly related to the properties of the magnetic field in the jets. A study of the optical polarization of blazars allows conclusions to be drawn about the field geometry, its evolution, and its relation to the emission properties of the blazars. The periods of ordered changes in the electric vector position angle, so-called rotations, are of particular interest. We used a new method to determine EVPA rotations and to estimate their statistical significance with the aim to analyze long-term polarimetric observations of five blazars: OJ 287, S5 0716+71, 3C 454.3, CTA 102, and PG 1553+113. This resultes in the identification of 256 EVPA rotations. We found possible tendencies for the EVPA rotations to occur in a preferred direction in each of these sources: clockwise for OJ 287 and CTA 102, and counterclockwise for the others. The EVPA rotations can be explained by the spiral structure of the magnetic field in the jet. In this case, the observed preferred direction of rotations reflects the global structure of the magnetic field, which can be associated with the direction of rotation of either the black hole ergosphere or the accretion disk.

Exploring the Bio-inspired Corrosion Inhibition Properties of Eco-friendly Limonia Acidissima Leaves Extract for Mild Steel in Acidic Media: Computational, Electrochemical and Spectroscopic Insights

This study investigates the corrosion inhibition properties of Limonia acidissima leaves extract (LALE) on mild steel in a 1.0 M HCl medium. Utilizing mass loss measurements, potentiodynamic polarization, AC impedance spectroscopy, and surface characterization methods like SEM, AFM, UV-Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy, the study reveals significant findings. The maximum inhibition efficiency of LALE was attained to be 92.26% at a 1.0% concentration. Potentiodynamic polarization studies show a marked decrease in corrosion current density (Icorr) from 3.102 × 10-3 A/cm² for the blank solution to 3.165 × 10-4 A/cm² with 1.0% LALE, indicating mixed-type inhibition. AC impedance measurements show an increase in charge transfer resistance (Rct) from 2.1410 Ω in the blank solution to 8.6580 Ω with 1.0% LALE, and a decrease in double-layer capacitance (Cdl) from 7.757 × 10-7 μF/cm² to 1.926 × 10-7 μF/cm², suggesting the formation of a protective film. SEM and AFM analyses confirm that LALE-treated steel surfaces are smoother with fewer pits and cavities compared to untreated steel. Furthermore, DFT analysis complemented well with the empirical findings. This research highlights the potential of plant extracts in industrial applications for corrosion protection, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable corrosion inhibitors and offering practical insights for future research and application in various corrosive environments.

Biocatalyst for carbon veil anode in microbial fuel cells: The effect of precursor and catalyst loading on overall performance

Biocatalysts in anodes have been crucial in improving microbial fuel cell (MFC) performance. Biocatalysts derived from biomass such as coconut wood sawdust (SD-B) and pepper processing residue (PS-B), were used to improve the electrocatalytic properties of Carbon Veil (CV) electrodes. The amorphous graphitic carbon biocatalyst with a mesoporous structure was found to have a surface area of 889.31 m2/g for SD-B and 763.56 m2/g for PS-B. Surface functional groups such as -OH which imparts hydrophilicity and -C=O and COOH which promotes bacterial compatibility have been revealed to be present in both catalysts. Catalyst loading played a major role and at an optimal loading of 2 mg/cm2, the electrodes exhibited maximum electrocatalytic activity in the case of both biocatalysts. The voltammetric capacitances of SD-B and PS-B modified electrodes were 191.6 mF/cm2 and 106.6 mF/cm2 demonstrating their pseudocapacitive behaviour too. The performance of MFC with SD-B revealed a maximum power density of 10.1 W/m3 (Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) of 850 mV), followed by PS-B at 6.89 W/m3 (OCV of 825 mV) whereas the plain CV was at 0.168 W/m3 (OCV of 760 mV). Anode polarization studies indicated reduced slopes for biocatalyst-modified anodes, signifying improved electrode kinetics, particularly notable in the SD-B modified MFC where the cathode became the limiting electrode. Coulombic efficiencies of the biocatalyst-modified MFCs increased to 54.50%, (SD-B 2 mg/cm2) and 37.78% (PS-B 2 mg/cm2) respectively from 12.74% as noticed in the case of unmodified MFC. This study emphasizes the potential of biocatalysts as a simple and low-cost means of enhancing the anode properties – porosity, conductivity, hydrophilicity, and biocompatibility.

Ajuga orientalis L. Extract as a Green Corrosion Inhibitor of Aluminum in an Acidic Solution: An Experimental and DFT Study

The inhibitory effect of A. orientalis L. extract (AO) on aluminum corrosion in a 1.0 M HCl solution was investigated utilizing weight loss, electrochemical polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that AO is a potent inhibitor in an acidic environment, and that the inhibition potency increases with concentration. Temperature investigations showed that, in an acidic medium, the efficiency decreased, increased, and then decreased as the temperature rose. Adsorption isotherms from Freundlich, Temkin, El Awady, and Redlich–Peterson (R-P) approximated the inhibitor’s adsorption properties. For the inhibitory behavior, a physical and chemical adsorption mechanism is proposed. The adsorption process’s thermodynamic parameters (Ea, ΔH*, and ΔS*) were determined and explained. The inhibitor, AO, was identified as a mixed-type (anodic and cathodic) inhibitor based on polarization studies. According to the SEM findings, the inhibitor partially covers the metal surface, providing it with a respectable level of protection. The weight loss, electrochemical polarization, EIS, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and quantum chemical calculations show a strong agreement, indicating that the AO extract is a highly effective inhibitor of aluminum in an acidic solution.

Polarization study of the P-wave charmonium radiative decay into a light vector meson at e+e- collider experiment

Abstract In this work, a formalism is presented for the helicity amplitude analysis of the decays ψ(2S) →γ1χcJ, χcJ→γ2V (V=ρ0, Φ, ω) (the subscript 1,2 is used to distinguish the two radiative photons), and the polarization expressions of the P-wave charmonia χcJ and the vector mesons ρ0, Φ, ω for experimental measurements at Electron-Positron Collider. In addition, we derive the formulae of the angular distributions of the χc1,2→γV to extract the degree of transverse polarization PT of e+e- pairs with symmetric beam energy as well as the ratios of two helicity amplitudes x (in χc1 decays) and x, y (in χc2 decays) representing the relative magnitudes of transverse to longitudinal polarization amplitude, and validate it by performing the Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, the statistical sensitivity of PT, x and y are estimated based on the large ψ(2S) data samples collected at the current and proposed future e+e- collider experiment.Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 licence. Any further distribution of this work must main tain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI. Article funded by SCOAP3 and published under licence by Chinese Physical Society and the Institute of High Energy Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Modern Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and IOP Publishing Ltd

Comprehensive investigation of novel synthesized thiophenytoin derivative (antiepileptic drug) as an environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1 M HCl: Theoretical, electrochemical, and surface analysis perspectives

This study evaluates the potential of N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-2-(5-oxo-4,4-diphenyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)thio)acetamide (AM16), a novel thiophenytoin derivative used as an antiepileptic drug, as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1.0 M HCl. The research focuses on AM16’s adsorption behavior and corrosion inhibition efficiency. Electrochemical techniques, including potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and electrochemical frequency modulation (EFM), were employed to assess the inhibitor’s effectiveness. The results demonstrate that AM16 achieved a corrosion inhibition efficiency of 95.7 %, with its performance improving with increasing concentration. Polarization studies reveal that AM16 acts as a mixed-type inhibitor. The adsorption of AM16 on the steel surface was modeled using the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Surface analysis via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the formation of a protective layer. Experimental findings were complemented by density functional theory (DFT)-based calculations. The combined theoretical, experimental, and analytical approaches affirm the efficacy of this molecule as a corrosion inhibitor, achieving a 95.7 % inhibition rate. Polarization studies reveal that the inhibitor acts as a mixed-type inhibitor. Thermodynamic parameters suggest that the molecule chemically adsorbs onto the steel surface, following the Langmuir isotherm.

Functionalized polyaniline nanofibrils on lamellar structured zirconium for effective bone mineralization

The surface physiology of certain implant material has the ability to promote implant–cell signalling process through which a stable environment is formed. The formation of this favourable environment hastens the process of biomineralization and regeneration. In this context, Zirconium (Zr) when treated with alkali undergoes a surface modification which results in the development of a lamellar structured Zirconium (ATZ). Further, encapsulation of polyaniline (PAni) on ATZ was achieved through the electropolymerization technique which results in an effective and homogeneous electrodeposition of PAni nanofibrils on ATZ surface. A high resolution scanning electron microscope analysis (HR-SEM), phase analysis and functional group analysis were carried out confirming the semi-crystalline PAni nanofibrils braided on the ATZ surface. Potentiodynamic polarization studies of the coated sample exhibited higher Ecorr (−0.060 V) and lower icorr (0.007 µA/cm2) values signifying its better corrosion resistance behaviour in higher potentials coupled with lower electrochemical activity in the SBF medium. The porosity of PAni/ATZ nanofibril was 0.007 % and it provides an effective platform for implant-tissue attachment. The In-vitro biomineralization studies proved the bioactivity of PAni/ATZ which forms well-matured HAp spherules over the surface. Further, hemocompatibility studies of PAni/ATZ expressed a hemolytic rate of ∼0.39 % which denotes it’s biocompatible and non-hemolytic behaviour with the blood cells. Further, the coated sample on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria causes demise of bacterial cell wall and exhibits higher inhibition percentage. In addition, a standard MTT assay of PAni/ATZ provides an effective support in maintaining cell viability and aids in proliferation of MG-63 cells. Thus, the results demonstrate that the nanoscale surface architecture of PAni/ATZ could serve as a potential and conducive environment for bone-implant interaction on the implant material for better osseointegration.

Thermal fluctuations on the corrosion behaviour of 17-4PH stainless steel alloys fabricated via material extrusion additive manufacturing technique

Herein, the influence of fluctuating thermal conditions on the corrosion behaviour of 17-4PH stainless steel alloys manufactured via fused filament fabrication is reported. The printed samples were sintered and then exposed to different temperature-fluctuating conditions to simulate the application environment of such alloys. The first set of samples (A) was studied as-sintered, the second set of samples (B) was aged at 480°C for 3 h followed by quenching in water, the third set (C) was exposed to conditions of B followed by aging at 360°C for 3 h and quenching in water and the final set of samples (D) was exposed to conditions of C followed by aging at 200°C for 3 h, quenching in water, aging at 400°C for 3 h, and finally quenching in water. The surface roughness evolved with the temperature conditions. The optical microscopy revealed that sample B had a fine and homogenous distribution of precipitates. Sample B had the highest microhardness values followed by C, D, and A in that order. XRD analysis revealed the presence of retained FCC austenitic phases within the microstructure whose peaks became stronger with the increased thermal fluctuations. The potentiodynamic polarisation studies revealed a distinct linear Tafel region on the cathodic region and a dual-slope inflection point on the anodic region of the polarisation curves. Sample D exhibited the highest corrosion rate whereas sample B revealed the lowest. As such, exposing fused filament fabricated 17-4 PH SS to fluctuating temperature conditions leads to degradation of mechanical strength and corrosion resistance.

ASPECTS OF SURFACE ENAMEL MINERALIZATION IN PERMANENT TEETH OF CHILDREN FROM DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS

The purpose of our study was the examination of external surface enamel mineralization in permanent teeth of children from different age groups. We examined sections of 50 extracted for orthodontic indications premolars in patients from different age groups. A study of 16 teeth was conducted in 11-13 years old children, 8 teeth were investigated in each group of 13-15 years old, as well as 9 teeth in 15-16-year-old patients. All patients were appointed with remineralization therapy during the first six months after tooth eruption fallowed by application of “Tooth Mousse” ones a day for 2 weeks every six months with appropriate monitoring. The comparison group, on the other hand, consisted from extracted teeth taken from children who were not subjected to any preventive remineralization measures. The distribution by age and the studied material was identical to the main group. Segmentation of the teeth was carried out after the tooth extraction with separation of the crown structure and further polishing of the crown using polishing brushes without pastes. Sections 0.3-0.5 mm thick were formed with a diamond disc. The enamel samples were cleaned and degreased and then examined in a polarizing microscope (Optika B-150POL-B 40x-640x Bino) at a magnification in 500 times. The description of the enamel microscopic surface was carried out according to the following parameters: surface heterogeneity, surface opaqueness/shininess, surface roughness/smoothness. The surface homogeneity was assessed by calculating the ratio of identified surface areas that visually differed from the overall enamel texture, which was characteristic of the predominant investigated surface enamel. There were criteria for evaluating the enamel surface heterogeneity according to the research data in a polarizing microscope : the presence of numerous well-defined cracks, the visualization and number of areas from which the enamel prisms extend, the presence and number of enamel surface irregularities confirmed by a change in the direction of the light beam, the percentage of surface homogeneity, which was calculated as the ratio of the area of ​​the visually homogeneous enamel surface to the area with ​​any microscopically detected changes. To assess the opacity of the enamel surface by the microscopic polarization study, the criteria of visual assessment of shiny and dark areas of interest were used. The study suggested that microscopic changes are characterized by a decrease of total number in enamel surface irregularities and an increase of its glossiness and smoothness at the approach of structural compositional stabilization at 15-16 years. The analysis also revealed that there were marked microscopic differences observed in enamel of 15-16 years old after remineralization with the "Tooth Mousse" gel and a comparison group (without remineralization therapy).The difference between them is reliable (p<0.01) according to the indicators of the relative average level of surface heterogeneity, and also statistically different from similar indicators that were registered in the age groups 11-13 and 13-15 years old (p<0.01). The gained results can be considered as the expediency grounds for implementation of dental caries prevention at the early stages of secondary mineralization (immediately after eruption) and throughout the entire period of its intensive phase, which will further contribute to the stabilization of the caries-resistant enamel.

Corrosion behaviour of the magnesium-cerium binary alloy designed for degradable medical implants

ABSTRACT Magnesium (Mg) alloys containing rare earths (RE) gained special attention as promising candidates for degradable implant applications. Cerium (Ce) is one of the RE elements which can be tolerated by the human physiological system when used as an alloying element in Mg alloys. In this current research work, Mg-Ce binary alloys (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% Ce by weight) were prepared by the stir-casting method. The developed alloys were characterised, and corrosion performance was assessed by immersion experiments in normal saline solution and by electrochemical experiments. The degradation rate of the developed alloys was measured as decreased with the increased Ce content up to 1.5%. From the polarisation studies, lower corrosion current density values 3.5 × 10−5 A/cm2 and 4.1 × 10−5 A/cm2 were observed for Mg-1.5%Ce and Mg-2%Ce alloys, respectively compared with the other samples. The surface morphologies after removing the corrosion products revealed more degraded regions for Mg and alloys with lower Ce content (0.5% and 1%) compared with 1.5% and 2% Ce. From the results, it is concluded that developing an Mg-Ce alloy with an optimum fraction of Ce (1.5%) is promising to produce degradable Mg-based medical implants with controlled degradation.

Ice Sheet Mass Changes over Antarctica Based on GRACE Data

Assessing changes of the mass balance in the Antarctic ice sheet in the context of global warming is a key focus in polar study. This study analyzed the spatiotemporal variation in the Antarctic ice sheet’s mass balance, both as a whole and by individual basins, from 2003 to 2016 and from 2018 to 2022 using GRACE RL06 data published by the Center for Space Research (CSR) and ERA-5 meteorological data. It explored the lagged relationships between mass balance and precipitation, net surface solar radiation, and temperature, and applied the random forest method to examine the relative contributions of these factors to the ice sheet’s mass balance within a nonlinear framework. The results showed that the mass loss rates of the Antarctic ice sheet during the study periods were −123.3 ± 6.2 Gt/a and −24.8 ± 52.1 Gt/a. The region with the greatest mass loss was the Amundsen Sea in West Antarctica (−488.8 ± 5.3 Gt/a and −447.9 ± 14.7 Gt/a), while Queen Maud Land experienced the most significant mass accumulation (44.9 ± 1.0 Gt/a and 30.0 ± 3.2 Gt/a). The main factors contributing to surface ablation of the Antarctic ice sheet are rising temperatures and increased surface net solar radiation, each showing a lag effect of 1 month and 2 months, respectively. Precipitation also affects the loss of the ice sheet to some extent. Over time, the contribution of precipitation to the changes in the ice sheet’s mass balance increases.

Quantum tomography with τ leptons at the FCC-ee: Entanglement, Bell inequality violation, sinθW , and anomalous couplings

The Future Circular Collider (FCC)—in its first incarnation as a lepton collider—will produce, according to the proposed design, more than 100 billion pairs of τ leptons after working for four years at the energy of the Z-boson resonance. The τ lepton is special because its relatively long lifetime makes it possible to reconstruct the momenta of neutrinos emitted in the single pion decay mode. The resulting large number of events is an ideal source for a full quantum tomography of the process that will test quantum entanglement and the violation of Bell inequality with unprecedented precision. In addition, the study of polarizations and spin correlations can provide a competitive determination of the Weinberg angle θW and constrain possible anomalous couplings in the neutral electroweak current. We utilize analytic results and Monte Carlo simulations to explore to what extent these goals might be accomplished. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Aromaticity of Heterocyclic Compounds and Their Corrosion Inhibition Property: Experimental and Theoretical Analysis.

Heterocycle derived moieties, namely, N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methanimine (MPM), 1-(furan-2-yl)-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)methanimine (FMM), and N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(thiophen-2-yl)methanimine (MTM), were synthesized followed by analysis of their structural aspects using FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopic techniques. The corrosion retarding abilities of the same were distinguished by gravimetric and certain electrochemical measures for mild steel in 0.5 M H2SO4, and MTM was obtained with maximum inhibition efficiency of 97.93% at 250 mg L-1 concentration; the thermodynamic and activation parameters were recorded in this regard. The results were further seen to be supported by various surface studies: SEM-EDS, XPS, AFM, contact angle, and UV-visible spectroscopy. Potentiodynamic polarization studies unveiled the mixed nature of heterocyclic inhibitors with overriding anodic effect. Furthermore, the adsorption of inhibitors over mild steel coupons demarcates the prevalence of physical and chemical interactions in the environment. In addition, the computational studies, global and local reactivity, molecular dynamics, and density functional theory, were employed and the experimental results obtained were found in correlation with the theoretical results.

Design and development of DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC disk-like micelles for targeted delivery of icariin phytochemical in pulmonary fibrosis

Icariin (ICA)-loaded DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC disk-like micelles were synthesized utilizing the thin film hydration method to enhance the solubility and delivery of ICA to the lungs. The micellar formulation significantly improved the water solubility of ICA. This was attributed to the high encapsulation efficiency (95 %) and drug loading capacity (12 %) of the DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC micelles. Comprehensive characterization using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Particle size analysis through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated the formation of stable micelles with an average particle size around 10 nm.In vitro aerosolization studies using the next-generation impactor (NGI) revealed that the fine particle fraction was 63.5 ± 4 %, which means that over 60 % of the aerosolized ICA/DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC micelles were capable of reaching and targeting the deep lung alveoli, indicating their potential efficacy for pulmonary delivery. Cytotoxicity assessments via the MTT assay showed IC50 values of ICA-loaded DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC micelles were 117 ± 8 μg/mL, 29 ± 3 μg/mL, and 21 ± 1 μg/mL at 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively, highlighting the time-dependent cytotoxic effects of the ICA-loaded micelles on A549 cells. However, the IC50 values of free ICA were > 500 μg/mL, 252 ± 3 μg/mL, and 109 ± 2 μg/mL, respectively at three different time points. That indicated that ICA-loaded nano micelles enhanced the cytotoxicity of ICA. Furthermore, the cellular uptake of the nano micelles by A549 cells was visualized and confirmed using EVOS fluorescence imaging and flow cytometry techniques. In addition, RAW 264.7 M2 polarization studies indicated ICA loaded DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC micelles have potential for treating pulmonary fibrosis.These findings suggest that DSPE-PEG2000/DPPC micelles significantly enhance the solubility and delivery of ICA, presenting a promising nanocarrier system for targeted pulmonary fibrosis therapy.

Synthesis and Characterization of Ni(II) Schiff Base Complex as a Precursor for NiO Nanoparticles and an Investigation of Their Corrosion Inhibition

This study first aimed to synthesize and characterize a [Ni(C14H13NO2)(OAC)2(H2O)2] via the preparation of a ligand, coordination with Ni(II) ions, and full characterization, such as "FTIR, 1H and 13C-NMR, UV-Visible spectroscopy; and ESI-mass spectrometry" The Nickel complex was then used as a precursor to prepared NiO Nps by calcination at 450°C. The phase purity, crystalline structure, and morphological characterizes of the NiO nanoparticles were investigated via X-ray diffraction (XRD), FESEM, and FTIR spectroscopy, revealing them to be cubic system with an average crystalline is 26 nm. The preparation technique is facile, cost-effective, and rapid and suitable for generating NiO nanoparticles for use in industrial processes. Further, the corrosion inhibition effectiveness of all synthesized compounds on mild steel in 1 M HCl was evaluated. Their inhibition efficiencies were determined via potentiodynamic polarization studies, revealing the highest inhibition efficiency for the NiO nanoparticles compared to the Nickel complex and free a ligand.

How #Trad Catholics Challenge Current Constructions of Christian Nationalism: Counterknowledge, Masculinity, and Elite Aesthetics on Instagram

ABSTRACT I analyze traditionalist Catholic (or Trad) content on Instagram to add digital hyperconnectivity to current conversations about Christian nationalism in the United States. Building on studies of both epistemological and affective shifts in the age of digital hyperconnectivity, I argue that some pockets of right-wing Christian content are not anti-intellectual, but rather construct alternative knowledge bases to challenge mainstream authorities. This populist strategy of counterknowledge is mediatized in Trad Instagram, creating an epistemic community to counter those of the mainstream. The affordances of Instagram as a platform, characterized by its emphasis on visual content, brevity, and rapid consumption, have resulted in the decontextualized presentation of fragmented elements of Catholic philosophy and social teaching. This reconfiguration not only reshapes the public perception of Catholic thought but also fundamentally alters the grammar of public discourse. I draw on studies of affective polarization to argue that counterknowledge is not primarily about building a substantive alternative knowledge base, but rather about constructing an identity around the media image of an epistemic community under threat. The Trad aesthetic representation of intellectualism is distinctly gendered, presenting intellectual pursuit and reason as masculine virtues. I conclude by explaining how Trad Instagram contributes to and challenges current discourses on Christian nationalism by centering digital hyperconnectivity instead of a rationalist analysis of motivating beliefs, providing insights not only about shifts in authority and populism, but also moving beyond ideology to highlight aesthetic, affect, and the algorithmic curation of knowledge.

Corrosion Inhibition Potential of Aqueous Extract of Bauhinia acuminata Linn Leaves on Carbon Steel in Hydrochloric Acid Medium

The corrosion of carbon steel in 1 N HCl was analyzed using an aqueous Bauhinia acuminata Linn (BaL) leaf extract. Weight loss method was used to determine the inhibitor efficaciousness and corrosion rate. When dissolved in water, a linneus plant leaf extract exhibit an inhibitory effect which is proportionate to the amount of inhibitors present. It is possible to speed up the corrosion process by increasing the inhibitors’ concentration. Studies have shown that the BaL leaves extract has a 97.30% inhibitory efficiency. By increasing the concentration of inhibitor solutions, a surface layer forms on carbon steel, which inhibits the activity of the active site. The potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and AC impedance studies (EIS) were employed to examine the mechanical properties of corrosion inhibition. The surface homogeneity and irregularity of carbon steel were examined using AFM and SEM under polished, corroded and inhibitor-treated surfaces. The surface irregularity of the carbon steel were analyzed using atomic force microscopy.

Linear polarization study of open clusters in the anticenter direction: Signature of the spiral arms

Aims. Our objective is to investigate the distribution of dust and associated large-scale structures of the Galaxy using optical linear polarization measurements of various open clusters located at different distances in the Galactic anticenter direction. Methods. We present R-band linear polarization observations of stars toward five open clusters: Kronberger 1, Berkeley 69, Berkeley 71, Berkeley 19, and King 8 in the anticenter direction. The polarization observations were carried out using the ARIES (Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences) IMaging POLarimeter mounted on the 104 cm Sampurnanand telescope of ARIES, Nainital, making it the first study to target the polarization observations toward distant clusters (~6 kpc). We combined the observed polarization data with the distance information from the Gaia space telescope to infer the dust distribution along the line of sight. Results. The variation in the degree of polarization and extinction with distance reveals multiple dust layers in each cluster direction. In addition, common foreground-dust layers detected toward different cluster directions highlight global features such as spiral arms. Our results show that the dust clouds at 2 kpc toward Berkeley 69 and Berkeley 71 coincide with the Perseus arm, while the dust layer at ~4 kpc toward the distant clusters Berkeley 19 and King 8 indicates the presence of the Outer arm. The large-scale dust distribution obtained by combining our polarization results with previous polarization studies of nearby open clusters suggests that the anticenter direction is characterized by a low-extinction homogeneous dust distribution with a somewhat uniform orientation of the plane-of-sky component of the magnetic field along the line of sight. Conclusions. Our study demonstrates that polarization is useful as a tool for studying the large-scale dust distribution and structural features where kinematic distance methods are inadequate and cannot provide accurate distances to the dust clouds. The global dust distribution in the anticenter direction shows signatures of the intervening spiral arms.