Segregation Process Research Articles

Thermodynamic of solid-state sintering: Contributions of grain boundary energy

This study aimed to highlight the importance of solid-solid interfaces or grain boundaries in the thermodynamics of interfaces during the sintering of materials. Among the three chemical potentials identified in this study, the difference in chemical potential between the grain boundary and the surface emerges as the most critical factor for pore elimination. However, once equilibrium is achieved between the grain boundary and the surface, a second chemical potential associated with the difference in grain size becomes predominant, promoting a new microstructural configuration that reactivates grain boundary formation and perpetuates sintering. A third potential was identified because of the edges, contributing to the rounding of the neck region between grains. The change in interfacial energy resulting from the adsorption or segregation processes plays a pivotal role in pore elimination during sintering. Models attempting to simultaneously predict the stability of grain boundary formation and pore elimination with grain growth were revisited.

Effect of vibration and airflow on separation of 6–1 mm fine coal in compound dry separation bed

The segregation behaviour of solid particles are affected by airflow and vibration in a compound dry separation bed. The distribution characteristics of airflow field on the bed surface have been systematically investigated by a novel method of regional air distribution, and the movement and segregation behavior of fine coal particles have been observed under different gas velocity. Meanwhile, the spatial distribution characteristics and ash variation of fine coal particles during the process of segregation and stratification were analyzed. The obtained results show that the airflow velocity of the bed showed a zonal air distribution characteristic of gradual decrease from the separation area to the clean coal section and the gangue section. The segregation and stratification of particles in the Y-axis and Z-axis directions of the bed surface can be enhanced by vibration. When the vibration frequency is 34 Hz, the probable error (E) is 0.08 g/cm3. The bed inclination and the bed grid height have a certain influence on the segregation behavior of fine coal.

Camera Interfacing with FPGA for IC Segregation

This research introduces a ground breaking approach for the segregation of Integrated Circuits (ICs) using FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) -based automation. The proposed system integrates mechanical and digital components to efficiently orient, sequence, identify, and classify ICs, thereby streamlining the segregation process. Key features include orientation rectification using a vibrator-like model to ensure proper IC alignment, and sequencing through a servo motor-controlled conveyor belt that organizes the ICs systematically. Identification of ICs is achieved through image capture coupled with Sobel edge detection, allowing precise recognition of different IC types. Classification is then performed using a servo motor-controlled funnel to accurately sort the ICs into designated categories. The FPGA orchestrates the control of these components, ensuring seamless coordination and enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the IC segregation process. This innovative system promises significant improvements in the automation and speed of IC segregation, reducing manual intervention and error rates.

An experimental batch study on separation of palm kernel and palm shell with salt solution

Abstract The effectiveness of the palm kernel separation process is of paramount significance, as it directly influences the quantity of palm kernels obtained. This efficiency forms the core of the decision-making process when considering how to best use palm kernel shells, which are a byproduct of the palm oil industry. These versatile shells have various applications, including their role as a fuel source, their use in producing activated carbon, and their utility as an alternative material in lightweight concrete. The primary aim of this investigation is to examine and enhance the efficiency of this innovative segregation technique, with a specific focus on identifying the optimal conditions for achieving effective segregation, particularly the ideal concentration of salt (NaCl) in a batch process. The research methodology comprises a wellstructured series of steps designed to systematically evaluate the segregation process. In the initial stages, samples of palm kernel and shell were collected from a local palm oil industry and meticulously prepared for experimentation. Subsequently, salt solutions with varying saturation percentage of salt solution beetwen 12 g/L and 380 g/L were prepared. As the samples were immersed in the solution, the denser palm kernel shells settled at the base, whereas the lighter palm kernels rised to the top, simplifying the separation of these two elements. The highest level of segregation efficiency was achieved at the 380 g/L of Consentration of salt solution. This suggested method offers advantages, including the capability to achieve a 100% separation of palm kernel and palm kernel shell.

Overcoming Phase Segregation in Wide‐Bandgap Perovskites: from Progress to Perspective

AbstractWide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are recognized as promising candidates for diversified photovoltaics (PVs), such as tandem devices, indoor PVs, and semitransparent building‐integrated PVs. However, these WBG perovskites made from a mixed‐halides strategy suffer from severe phase segregation under continuous illumination, leading to exacerbated non‐radiative recombination, and consequently decreased open‐circuit voltage and efficiency. In this review, the generation and reversal processes of phase segregation in WBG perovskites are meticulously introduced. Additionally, the major characterization techniques for phase segregation are presented. A detailed summary of recent progress in enhancing photostability of WBG PSCs through various strategies is provided. These strategies primarily concentrate on composition regulation, crystallization modulation, inhibition of ion migration, and strain regulation. Finally, perspectives and potential directions are carefully discussed to promote the further development of high‐efficiency and photostable WBG PSCs.

Coupled Dynamic Characteristics of Mobile Ions in Halide Perovskites.

Mixed perovskites show immense promise for diverse applications owing to their exceptional compositional flexibility and outstanding optoelectronic performance. Nevertheless, a significant hurdle in their widespread use is their susceptibility to compositional instability. Some mixed perovskites exhibit a tendency to segregate into regions with varying halide content, negatively impacting the material's electronic properties and impeding its overall advancement. This study focuses on investigating the lattice and A-site cation dynamics in mixed-halide perovskites as well as the relationship between the stability and dynamic properties of mixed-halide perovskites. Our findings reveal an intrinsic link between the kinetics of organic molecules and halogen ion migration. The stability of halide ions is linearly positively correlated with the radius, number of H atoms, and moment of inertia of the organic molecules. Organic molecules with lower rotational kinetics effectively suppress the overall cationic kinetic activity, enhancing lattice dynamic stability in mixed perovskite systems. This inhibition further impedes the migration of halogen ions and hinders the halide segregation process. The presence of dominant I/MA vacancies in perovskites accelerates the rotation of MA and the migration of halogen ions. The coupled dynamic behavior of varying vacancy concentrations in A-site cations/X-site anions within the inorganic framework significantly impacts the photovoltaic performance of these halide perovskites.

A Study on Waste Disposal Management at Government Hospital in Up

The management of waste disposal in government hospitals across Uttar Pradesh (UP) is a critical issue that significantly impacts public health and environmental sustainability. This research paper aims to explore the current state of waste disposal practices in these facilities, identifying challenges, and proposing sustainable solutions. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews to gather insights from hospital staff, waste management professionals, and local community members. Key findings reveal significant gaps in waste segregation, collection, transportation, and treatment processes, leading to improper waste disposal and potential health risks. The research also highlights the lack of awareness among hospital staff about the importance of waste segregation and the absence of effective policies to manage biomedical waste. Recommendations include the implementation of comprehensive waste management training programs for hospital staff, the establishment of dedicated waste management units within hospitals, and the promotion of community-based waste segregation initiatives. This study underscores the urgent need for improved waste disposal management in government hospitals in UP to safeguard public health and the environment.

Compaction and Segregation of DNA in Escherichia coli.

Theoretical and experimental approaches have been applied to study the polymer physics underlying the compaction of DNA in the bacterial nucleoid. Knowledge of the compaction mechanism is necessary to obtain a mechanistic understanding of the segregation process of replicating chromosome arms (replichores) during the cell cycle. The first part of this review discusses light microscope observations demonstrating that the nucleoid has a lower refractive index and thus, a lower density than the cytoplasm. A polymer physics explanation for this phenomenon was given by a theory discussed at length in this review. By assuming a phase separation between the nucleoid and the cytoplasm and by imposing equal osmotic pressure and chemical potential between the two phases, a minimal energy situation is obtained, in which soluble proteins are depleted from the nucleoid, thus explaining its lower density. This theory is compared to recent views on DNA compaction that are based on the exclusion of polyribosomes from the nucleoid or on the transcriptional activity of the cell. These new views prompt the question of whether they can still explain the lower refractive index or density of the nucleoid. In the second part of this review, we discuss the question of how DNA segregation occurs in Escherichia coli in the absence of the so-called active ParABS system, which is present in the majority of bacteria. How is the entanglement of nascent chromosome arms generated at the origin in the parental DNA network of the E. coli nucleoid prevented? Microscopic observations of the position of fluorescently-labeled genetic loci have indicated that the four nascent chromosome arms synthesized in the initial replication bubble segregate to opposite halves of the sister nucleoids. This implies that extensive intermingling of daughter strands does not occur. Based on the hypothesis that leading and lagging replichores synthesized in the replication bubble fold into microdomains that do not intermingle, a passive four-excluding-arms model for segregation is proposed. This model suggests that the key for segregation already exists in the structure of the replication bubble at the very start of DNA replication; it explains the different patterns of chromosome arms as well as the segregation distances between replicated loci, as experimentally observed.

GARBAGE COLLECTOR USING ARDUINO

The amount of Solid waste that is being produced through our everyday activities is huge and is getting unmanageable day by day. This is mainly due to increasing population leading to haphazard dumping and increasing transportation costs with already few cost-effective methods to treat the solid waste. According to an estimate in 2016, 277 million tons of solid waste is produced by India every year. It is also projected to increase to 387 million tons by 2030 and 543 million tons by 2050. The very first method involved in the Solid Waste Management is sorting of waste which simplifies the further procedure as to what to do with the waste i.e., should it be treated thermally, biologically or dumped. Improper segregation of solid waste and segregation at secondary levels of waste management is only going to delay the waste management process and sometimes even lead to inappropriate dumping. This project suggests a way to deal with segregation process so as to make the whole solid waste management easier and more efficient. Automatic Waste Segregation system provides a practical segregation process of solid waste into metal waste, dry waste and wet waste at the primary level right where the waste is being generated. An Automatic Waste Segregator with simpler mechanism than that of previous models is designed and a detailed methodology of the working of the segregation process is provided. Selection of the required equipment has been mentioned. This project aims at segregating the waste produced at the primary level and reducing the burden at secondary levels and cost of transportation of the waste. The results obtained after testing the Automatic Waste Segregator with wastes proved to be functional and can be comfortably relied upon to segregate the wastes.

Multi-class waste segregation using computer vision and robotic arm

Waste segregation is an essential aspect of a smoothly functioning waste management system. Usually, various recyclable waste types are disposed of together at the source, and this brings in the necessity to segregate them into their categories. Dry waste needs to be separated into its own categories to ensure that the proper procedures are implemented to treat and process it, which leads to an overall increased recycling rate and reduced landfill impact. Paper, plastics, metals, and glass are just a few examples of the many dry waste materials that can be recycled or recovered to create new goods or energy. Over the past years, much research has been conducted to devise effective and productive ways to achieve proper segregation for the waste that is being produced at an ever-increasing rate. This article introduces a multi-class garbage segregation system employing the YOLOv5 object detection model. Our final prototype demonstrates the capability of classifying dry waste categories and segregating them into their respective bins using a 3D-printed robotic arm. Within our controlled test environment, the system correctly segregated waste classes, mainly paper, plastic, metal, and glass, eight out of 10 times successfully. By integrating the principles of artificial intelligence and robotics, our approach simplifies and optimizes the traditional waste segregation process.

Modeling allosteric mechanisms of eukaryotic type II topoisomerases

Type II topoisomerases (TopoIIs) are ubiquitous enzymes that are involved in crucial nuclear processes such as genome organization, chromosome segregation, and other DNA metabolic processes. These enzymes function as large, homodimeric complexes that undergo a complex cycle of binding and hydrolysis of two ATP molecules in their ATPase domains, which regulates the capture and passage of one DNA double-helix through a second, cleaved DNA molecule. This process requires the transmission of information about the state of the bound nucleotide over vast ranges in the TopoII complex. How this information is transmitted at the molecular level to regulate TopoII functions and how protein substitutions disrupt these mechanisms remains largely unknown. Here, we employed extensive microsecond-scale molecular dynamics simulations of the yeast TopoII enzyme in multiple nucleotide-bound states and with amino acid substitutions near both the N and C termini of the complex. Simulation results indicate that the ATPase domains are remarkably flexible on the sub-microsecond timescale and that these dynamics are modulated by the identity of the bound nucleotides and both local and distant amino acid substitutions. Network analyses point toward specific allosteric networks that transmit information about the hydrolysis cycle throughout the complex, which include residues in both the protein and the bound DNA molecule. Amino acid substitutions weaken many of these pathways. Together, our results provide molecular level details on how the TopoII catalytic cycle is controlled through nucleotide binding and hydrolysis and how mutations may disrupt this process.

Combination of an aurora kinase inhibitor and the ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor asciminib against ABL inhibitor-resistant CML cells

The development of BCR::ABL1-targeting tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has improved the prognosis of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). However, resistance to ABL TKIs can develop in CML patients due to BCR::ABL1 point mutations and CML leukemia stem cell (LSC). Aurora kinases are essential kinases for cell division and regulate mitosis, especially the process of chromosomal segregation. Aurora kinase members also promote cancer cell survival and proliferation. This study analyzed whether aurora kinases were regulated in the progression of CML. It also evaluated the efficacy of the ABL TKI asciminib and the aurora kinase inhibitor LY3295668. The expressions of AURKA and AURKB were higher in the CML cells compared with normal cells using a public database (GSE100026). Asciminib or LY3295668 alone inhibited CML cells after 72 h, and cellular cytotoxicity was increased. The combined use of Asciminib and LY3295668 increased superior efficacy compared with either drug alone. Colony formation was reduced by cotreatment with asciminib and LY3295668. In the cell-cycle analyses, LY3295668 induced G2/M arrest. Cell populations in the sub-G1 phase were observed when cotreating with asciminib and LY3295668. The combination treatment also changed the mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, AURKA shRNA transfectant cells had increased asciminib sensitivity. Combining asciminib and aurora kinase inhibition enhanced the efficacy and is proposed as a new therapeutic option for patients with CML. These findings have clinical implications for a potential novel therapeutic strategy for CML patients.

The tendency of V segregation in Pd/V(110) and Pd/V(100) surfaces induced by H adsorption

This study employs density functional theory-based calculations to investigate the tendency of V atom segregation in Pd/V(100) and Pd/V(110) surfaces upon adsorption of H at varying coverage (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.0 ML). Geometric, energetic, and electronic structure analyses were performed to elucidate the stability of H on the surfaces, the V atoms segregation tendency, and the interactions of atoms in the systems. By calculating the relative energies, we found that Pd atoms will favor residing in the topmost layer of pristine Pd/V. Segregation of V atom in pristine Pd/V(100) is more endothermic than in Pd/V(110). For H-Pd/V systems, a tendency of V segregation was observed for 0.50–1.0 ML H coverage on Pd/V(110). V atom segregation was not predicted in H-Pd/V(100). Due to the more endothermic V atom segregation process in pristine (100) than in (110) facet, a larger energy is necessary to induce V segregation by H adsorption in (100). The adsorption energies, charge density difference distributions, and density of states revealed the stronger H-V interaction compared to H-Pd interaction. Hence, H adsorption stabilizes the V atoms in the topmost layers and could induce V segregation in the surface.

Development of segregation and integration of functional connectomes during the first 1,000 days

The first 1,000days of human life lay the foundation for brain development and later cognitive growth. However, the developmental rules of the functional connectome during this critical period remain unclear. Using high-resolution, longitudinal, task-free functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 930 scans of 665 infants aged 28 postmenstrual weeks to 3 years, we report the early maturational process of connectome segregation and integration. We show the dominant development of local connections alongside a few global connections, the shift of brain hubs from primary regions to high-order association cortices, the developmental divergence of network segregation and integration along the anterior-posterior axis, the prediction of neurocognitive outcomes, and their associations with gene expression signatures of microstructural development and neuronal metabolic pathways. These findings advance our understanding of the principles of connectome remodeling during early life and its neurobiological underpinnings and have implications for studying typical and atypical development.

Segregação espaço-temporal: tempo de deslocamento que une e separa classes e raças

Abstract The intense growth of Brazilian cities is remarkable, characterized by peripheralization and socio-spatial inequalities. However, studies that focus on the temporal dimension to understand spatial segregation are still scarce. This paper aims to understand the role played by commuting time in explaining the process of spatial segregation in the São Paulo metropolis. Its methodology is based on statistical data obtained from the weighting areas of the Demographic Census sample, by means of the variable usual commuting time, combined with other socioeconomic variables of income and race. This research contributes to the understanding of spatio-temporal segregation and shows that commuting time unites the poorest and black individuals, separating them from the richest and white individuals in the São Paulo metropolis.

Garbage Classification Using Deep Learning

Garbage disposal is a critical responsibility in maintaining a healthy and green environment. The recycling business is thriving as inhabitants of India become more aware of the necessity of a clean environment in terms of reducing natural resource use and rubbish disposal. The amount of trash generated in daily life has an impact on land, water, and air, posing a major threat to aquatic animals and their habitats, as well as humans, if not properly managed. Conventional garbage disposal systems are on the rise, requiring accurate and efficient segmentation and recognition processes. This demand corresponds to an increase in the computing capacity of modern computer systems as well as more efficient picture recognition methods. To address this issue, the garbage categorization process is automated by using an image classifier with a convolutional neural network (CNN), which reduces waste segregation time and costs. The goal of automating the process is to reduce human intervention and increase productivity in the waste segregation process. In this paper, three distinct models are tested for greater accuracy: Simple CNN, ResNet50, and VGG16 are trained on various image datasets and used to extract features from images, which are then fed into a classifier for dump/trash categorization. The learned models are then loaded into the mobile application.

Advanced Waste Seclusion and Chucking System Using Deep Learning Techniques

Any material that is undesirable or unusable is considered waste. Waste can be in any form (Liquid, solid or gas) but generally, waste is a solid form. There are various types of waste like paper, displeasing food, torn clothes, dried plants, kitchen waste, etc., Skin disease, diarrhea, tuberculosis, whooping cough, pneumonia etc.., are some other common diseases spread due to immoral waste management. Separating waste allows us to salvage more items, preventing their scraping in landfills. By reducing landfills disposal Segregating waste is important not only to reduce its impact on the environment but also to prevent health issues that can arise from the disposal of waste and toxins. Although the problem of waste segregation is a big challenge, there are several methods for automatic segregation, which eliminates the need for human hands. The proposed system utilizes Faster R-CNN algorithms to segregate waste into bio-degradable and non-biodegradable categories which, effectively eliminating the need for human involvement in the segregation process. This method employs artificial intelligence techniques to achieve waste segregation.

Investigation of particle segregation in a vertically vibrated binary mixture: Segregation process and mechanism

The fabric structure and dynamic behaviour of granular materials have been extensively studied in geotechnical engineering due to their considerable impact on permeability and mechanical properties. However, particle segregation, causing significant structural changes, remains inadequately understood, especially concerning its dynamic evolution in both global and local segregation processes. This study aims to investigate the motion of particles and evolution of internal microstructure in binary mixtures under vibrational conditions. The emphasis lies in comprehending both global and local time segregation processes, along with elucidating the potential underlying mechanisms. Through DEM simulations, it is observed that large particles tend to rise to the surface of the container while small particles aggregate at the bottom, resulting in the well-known Brazil Nut Effect. As the vibration intensity increases, the degree of segregation becomes more pronounced. Vertical segregation precedes radial segregation and eventually leads to stable separation of the binary mixture. To comprehensively analyse the segregation behaviour, we introduce a segregation index and reveal a correlation between vertical and radial segregation. Additionally, the ascending process exhibits characteristics similar to compressed solid blocks, while the descending process resembles fluid-like behaviour, suggesting a phase transition phenomenon during particle segregation. The study further highlights the role of pore filling and convective rolling as driving mechanisms for particle segregation. These findings emphasize the potential impact of external disturbances on the microstructure of granular mixtures, with implications for scenarios such as earthquakes, debris flows, and traffic loads.

NME3 is a gatekeeper for DRP1-dependent mitophagy in hypoxia

NME3 is a member of the nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDPK) family localized on the mitochondrial outer membrane (MOM). Here, we report a role of NME3 in hypoxia-induced mitophagy dependent on its active site phosphohistidine but not the NDPK function. Mice carrying a knock-in mutation in the Nme3 gene disrupting NME3 active site histidine phosphorylation are vulnerable to ischemia/reperfusion-induced infarction and develop abnormalities in cerebellar function. Our mechanistic analysis reveals that hypoxia-induced phosphatidic acid (PA) on mitochondria is essential for mitophagy and the interaction of DRP1 with NME3. The PA binding function of MOM-localized NME3 is required for hypoxia-induced mitophagy. Further investigation demonstrates that the interaction with active NME3 prevents DRP1 susceptibility to MUL1-mediated ubiquitination, thereby allowing a sufficient amount of active DRP1 to mediate mitophagy. Furthermore, MUL1 overexpression suppresses hypoxia-induced mitophagy, which is reversed by co-expression of ubiquitin-resistant DRP1 mutant or histidine phosphorylatable NME3. Thus, the site-specific interaction with active NME3 provides DRP1 a microenvironment for stabilization to proceed the segregation process in mitophagy.

Understanding the Fracture Failure Mechanism of WC Particle-Reinforced FeCoCrNiMn High-Entropy Alloy Coatings at 600 °C

A detailed electron microscopy study was performed to clarify the fracture mechanism of WC particles reinforced with FeCoCrNiMn high-entropy alloy coatings at 600 °C. Large-sized fibers and elemental segregation formed in the coating, triggering high local stress in the matrix alloy and resulting in a low tensile strength of 150 MPa. High temperature promoted the homogenization process of elemental segregation, but also facilitated the dissolution of large-sized fibers, resulting in the growth of slim fibers and nanofibers. Both the structural homogenization and multi-scale fiber strengthening led to an enhanced tensile strength of 242 MPa at 600 °C. These current findings provide an understanding of the fracture mechanism of HEA/WC coatings during high-temperature exposure.