SEM Analysis Research Articles

Performance of coal gangue concrete with fly ash and ground-granulated blast slag: Rheology, mechanical properties and microstructure

This paper aims to examine the effect of coal gangue aggregate (CGA), fly ash (FA), and ground-granulated blast slag (GGBS) on the rheological, mechanical and microstructure properties of concrete. The rheological properties, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and uniaxial tensile behaviour of coal gangue concrete (CGC) were determined, and the microstructure of the concrete mixtures were investigated by use of XRD and SEM analyses. The results revealed the action mechanism of CGA and mineral admixtures on the microstructure and macroscopic properties of CGC. FA first increased and then decreased the yield stress and plastic viscosity, while GGBS considerably increased the yield stress and plastic viscosity. Furthermore, a constitutive model was established for CGC containing FA and GGBS under compression. The proposed stress–strain model for CGC is accurate and can be used for nonlinear analysis of structures made of this type of concrete. Moreover, the addition of FA and GGBS consumes calcium hydroxide, but increases products such as hydrated calcium silicate aluminate. These findings elucidate the understanding and optimisation of CGA use in concrete production, while contributing to lowering carbon emissions.

Investigating the impact of metal ion variations in terephthalate metal–organic frameworks on the organic solvent nanofiltration performance of mixed matrix membranes

Nano-fillers integrated into mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) present promising alternatives for organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN). In this work, our objective is to enhance OSN performance by incorporating terephthalate metal-organic frameworks (M-BDC, where M = Zr or Cu) into a P84 matrix to fabricate M-BDC/P84 composite MMMs. This work focuses on the influence of metal cluster variation on particle size, pore size distribution, and specific surface area of M-BDC, while systematically investigating the impact of M-BDC addition on OSN performance and underlying separation mechanisms. The synthesized membranes underwent comprehensive characterization using SEM, XRD, ATR-FTIR, contact angle, zeta potential, and thermogravimetric analysis. Significantly, all MMMs exhibited superior permeance and methyl blue (MB) rejection compared to P84 membranes. This enhancement is attributed to the improved interfacial contact between M-BDC and P84, as well as their effective dispersion within the membrane matrix. Interestingly, comparative analysis between Cu-BDC/P84 and Zr-BDC/P84 MMMs revealed the latter's superior permeance, attributed to its larger pore size and surface area. The resulting MMMs demonstrated outstanding MB rejection (>96.7%) with ethanol permeance of 21.5 and 19.0 LMH/Bar for Zr-BDC/P84 and Cu-BDC/P84 MMMs, respectively. Furthermore, the stable performance of M-BDC-based MMMs during prolonged MB/ethanol operation underscores their potential significance in the field of OSN, providing valuable insights for future membrane design and application.

Improved cycle stability and high-rate capability of LiNbO3-coated Li3VO4 as anode material for lithium-ion battery

Lithium vanadate (Li3VO4) has garnered considerable attention as an alternative negative electrode material for non-aqueous lithium-ion batteries due to its high capacity, energy efficiency, and stable discharge voltage. Nonetheless, the Li3VO4 material displays a low rate capability, attributed mainly to its poor intrinsic electronic conductivity. Here, we report the synthesis of lithium niobate LiNbO3-coated Li3VO4 (LVO@LNO) using a one-pot sol-gel method. The resulting LVO@LNO demonstrates a high reversible capacity of approximately 530 mAh/g, which is more than double that of free Li3VO4. To explore the effect of the LNO coating process on the morphological and structural properties, Raman, XRD, operando XRD, XPS, SEM and HTEM analyses were conducted. To explain the enhancement of electronic conductivity in our modified material after a LiNbO3 coating, we conducted an Ex-Situ electrochemical impedance (EIS) and Density Functional Theory (DFT) computational study. Additionally, we designed a full cell utilizing a 1 wt% LNO-coated LVO anode and NMC-811 cathode. The cell yielded an output voltage of approximately 2.8 V with a high initial specific capacity of 350 mAh/g versus to the anode, at 1C with a capacity retention of 85 % after 100 cycles.

3D cell culture of nanofiber hydrogel promotes the growth and osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC)

Hydrogels, as a type of polymer network material with high water content, find wide application in various tissue repair procedures. In addition, a three-dimension (3D) cell culture platform similar to natural extracellular matrix can be constructed in vitro by modifying natural polymer chains. Therefore, this study based on natural polymer hydrogel, the introduction of inorganic nanoparticles POSS to prepare GelMA-POSS nanohydrogel. The physical and chemical properties of the hydrogel were evaluated through SEM, swelling test and degradation analysis. Subsequently, the GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel was used as matrix material to culture rBMSCs in vitro. CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to detect the proliferation ability and apoptosis rate of rBMSCs. The expression of osteogenic markers in rBMSCs was detected by qPCR, Western Blotting and ELISA assay, and the osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs was detected by ALP staining and alizarin red staining. The results indicate that compared with pure gelatin (Gel) hydrogel, GelMA-POSS nanohydrogel has slower degradation rate and better water retention capacity. Furthermore, in vitro cell culture experiments showed that GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel had good biocompatibility, and could promote the proliferation of rBMSCs and increase the expression level of osteogenic markers in cells, and induce osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs. GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel based on POSS significantly improves the physical and chemical properties of Gel hydrogel, and has good biocompatibility and the ability to induce osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs, Thus, it holds great promise as a potential material for repairing bone defects.

Integration of metal organic framework nanoparticles into sodium alginate biopolymer-based three-dimensional membrane capsules for the efficient removal of toxic metal cations from water and real sewage

Sodium alginate (SA) biopolymer has been recognized as an efficient adsorbent material owing to their unique characteristics, including biodegradability, non-toxic nature, and presence of abundant hydrophilic functional groups. Accordingly, in the current research work, UiO-66-OH and UiO-66-(OH)2 metal organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles (NPs) have been integrated into SA biopolymer-based three-dimensional (3-D) membrane capsules (MCs) via a simple and facile approach to remove toxic metal cations (Cu2+ and Cd2+) from water and real sewage. The newly configured capsules were characterized by FTIR, SEM, XRD, EDX and XPS analyses techniques. Exceptional sorption properties of the as-developed capsules were ensured by evaluation of the pertinent operational parameters, i.e., contents of MOF-NPs (1–100 wt%), adsorbent dosage (0.001–0.05 g), content time (0–360 h), pH (1–8), initial concentration of metal cations (5–1000 mg/L) and reaction temperature (298.15–333.15 K) on the eradication of Cu2+ and Cd2+ metal cations. It was found that hydrophilic functional groups (-OH and -COOH) have performed an imperative role in the smooth loading of MOF-NPs into 3-D membrane capsules via intra/inter-molecular hydrogen bonding and van der waals potencies. The maximum monolayer uptake capacities (as calculated by the Langmuir isotherm model) of Cd2+ and Cu2+ by 3-D SGMMCs-OH were 940 and 1150 mg/g, respectively, and by 3-D SGMMCs-(OH)2 were 1375 and 1575 mg/g, respectively, under optimum conditions. The as-developed capsules have demonstrated superior selectivity against targeted metal cations under designated pH and maintained >80 % removal efficiency up to six consecutive treatment cycles. Removal mechanisms of metal cations by the 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH)2 was proposed, and electrostatic interaction, ion-exchange, inner-sphere coordination bonds/interactions, and aromatic ligands exchange were observed to be the key removal mechanisms. Notably, FTIR and XPS analysis indicated that hydroxyl groups of Zr-OH and BDC-OH/(OH)2 aromatic linkers played vital roles in Cu2+ and Cd2+ adsorption by participating in inner-sphere coordination interactions and aromatic ligands exchange mechanisms. The as-prepared capsules indicated >70 % removal efficiency of Cu2+ from real electroplating wastewater in the manifestation of other competitive metal ions and pollutants under selected experimental conditions. Thus, it was observed that newly configured 3-D SGMMCs-OH/(OH)2 have offered a valuable discernment into the development of MOFs-based water decontamination 3-D capsules for industrial applications.

Preparation and performance influencing factors of Sludge-based Non-sintering Ceramsite Foam Concrete Block

In this study, the preparation of Ceramsite Foam Block using Sludge-based Non-sintering Ceramsite (SNSC) was investigated through orthogonal test and performance optimization test to investigate the effects of different coal fly ash addition, volume ratio of SNSC, water binder ratio and sodium silicate concentration on the performance of the concrete block, and the optimal material mixing ratios were obtained as follows: cement was 400kg/m3, coal fly ash was 100kg/m3, SNSC was 371kg/m3, water binder ratio was 0.43, CaCl2 was 10kg/m3, and Na2SO4 was 5kg/m3. The performance of Sludge-based Non-sintering Ceramsite Foam Concrete Block under these conditions meets the specification requirements of GB/T 36534-2018 "Ceramsite Foam Concrete Block". Its compressive strength was 7.76MPa, dry bulk density was 948.7kg/m3, the water absorption was 20.75%, and the softening coefficient was 0.861. XRD and SEM analyses revealed that the internal physical phase of the concrete blocks under the optimal conditions was tightly bonded, with fewer and uniformly distributed pores, and that the hydration generated C-S-H, C-A-H gel-like substances, calcium alumina (AFt), and hydrated calcium chloroaluminate generated by hydration could significantly improve the physical and mechanical properties of concrete blocks.

The impacts of Fintech adoption, green finance and competitiveness on banks’ sustainable performance: digital transformation as moderator

PurposeThe global emphasis on sustainability is driving organizations to embrace financial technology (Fintech) solutions as a means of enhancing their sustainable performance. This study seeks to unveil the intermediary role played by green finance and competitiveness, along with the moderating impact of digital transformation (DT), in the intricate relationship between Fintech adoption and sustainable performance.Design/methodology/approachDrawing on existing literature, we construct a comprehensive conceptual framework to thoroughly analyse these interconnected variables. To empirical validate of our model, a dual structural equation modelling–artificial neural network) SEM–ANN approach was employed, adding a robust layer of validation to our study’s proposed framework. A sample of 438 banking employees in Pakistan was collected using a simple random sampling technique, with 411 samples deemed suitable for subsequent analysis. Initially, data scrutiny and hypothesis testing were carried out using Smart-PLS 4.0 and SPSS-23. Subsequently, the ANN technique was utilized to assess the importance of exogenous factors in forecasting endogenous factors.FindingsThe findings from this research underscore the direct and significant influence of Fintech adoption and DT on the sustainable performance of banks. Notably, green finance and competitiveness emerge as pivotal mediators, bridging the gap between Fintech adoption and sustainable performance. Moreover, DT emerges as a critical moderator, shaping the relationships between Fintech adoption and both green finance and competitiveness. The integration of the ANN approach enhances the SEM analysis, providing deeper insights and a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the enhanced comprehension of Fintech, green finance, competitiveness, DT and the sustainable performance of banks. Recognizing the importance of amalgamating Fintech adoption, green finance and transformational leadership becomes essential for elevating the sustainable performance of banks. The insights garnered from this study hold valuable implications for policymakers, practitioners and scholars aiming to enhance the sustainable performance of banks within the competitive business landscape.

Development and Characterization of Thermosensitive and Bioadhesive Ophthalmic Formulations Containing Flurbiprofen Solid Dispersions

In this study, we aimed to develop thermosensitive and bioadhesive in situ gelling systems containing solid dispersions of flurbiprofen (FB-SDs) using poloxamer 407 (P407) and 188 (P188) for ophthalmic delivery. FB-SDs were prepared with the melt method using P407, characterized by solubility, stability, SEM, DSC, TGA, and XRD analyses. Various formulations of poloxamer mixtures and FB-SDs were prepared using the cold method and P407/P188 (15/26.5%), which gels between 32 and 35 °C, was selected to develop an ophthalmic in situ gelling system. Bioadhesive polymers Carbopol 934P (CP) or carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were added in three concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6% (w/w)). Gelation temperature and time, mechanical properties, flow properties, and viscosity values were determined. The in vitro release rate, release kinetics, and the release mechanism of flurbiprofen (FB) from the ophthalmic formulations were analyzed. The results showed that FB-SDs’ solubility in water increased 332-fold compared with FB. The oscillation study results indicated that increasing bioadhesive polymer concentrations decreased gelation temperature and time, and formulations containing CP gel at lower temperatures and in a shorter time. All formulations except F3 and F4 showed Newtonion flow under non-physiological conditions, while all formulations exhibited non-Newtonion pseudoplastic flow under physiological conditions. Viscosity values increased with an increase in bioadhesive polymer concertation at physiological conditions. Texture profile analysis (TPA) showed that CP-containing formulations had higher hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness, and the gel structure of formulation F4, containing 0.6% CP, exhibited the greatest hardness, compressibility, and adhesiveness. In vitro drug release studies indicated that CP and CMC had no effect below 0.6% concentration. Kinetic evaluation favored first-order and Hixson–Crowell kinetic models. Release mechanism analysis showed that the n values of the formulations were greater than 1 except for formulation F5, suggesting that FB might be released from the ophthalmic formulations by super case II type diffusion. When all the results of this study are evaluated, the in situ gelling formulations prepared with FB-SDs that contained P407/P188 (15/26.5%) and 0.2% CP or 0.2% CMC or 0.4 CMC% (F2, F5, and F6, respectively) could be promising formulations to prolong precorneal residence time and improve ocular bioavailability of FB.

Aromatic‐rich oil production from catalytic co‐pyrolysis of pine sawdust and LDPE with bifunctional biochar by different preparation methods

AbstractBACKGROUNDCatalytic co‐pyrolysis of biomass with waste plastics can produce high‐quality chemicals, making it a potential alternative to fossil fuels. The production of aromatic‐rich oil was achieved in this work by catalytic the co‐pyrolysis of pine sawdust and LDPE using a series of biochar made using different preparation methods. ZnCl2 was employed to activate biochar during the preparation process, owing to its optimal activity for the co‐pyrolysis intermediates. The study compared the effects of biochar activated using different treatment methods on the yield and fractions of pine sawdust and LDPE co‐pyrolysis in a fast pyrolysis tube furnace at 650 °C.RESULTSThe study indicates that the ZnCl2 biochar, prepared from pine sawdust by fast pyrolysis (F‐AC), exhibited the best aromatic catalytic activity. The selectivity to aromatic hydrocarbons was 72.53%, and the content of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene) was 32.17%.CONCLUSIONThe Diels‐Alder reaction and aromatization were made more effective since to the Zn sites and large pore structure in F‐AC. Using FTIR, SEM, and XPS analysis, it was found that F‐AC contained more O‐containing groups in abundance, which improved its adsorption capacity for reaction intermediates. At the same time, the porous structure and high specific surface area of biochar provided a region for the reaction intermediate to interact with the active center containing O‐containing groups. This enhanced the synergy between biomass and plastics and raised the selectivity of aromatic hydrocarbons. It provides a reference for the application of carbon‐based materials in the co‐pyrolysis of biomass and waste plastics.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Utilisation of human hair wastage from local saloons as reinforcement for improving the mechanical properties of zucchini fibre reinforced polypropylene biocomposite

ABSTRACT Solid waste management is an urgent issue in the current day and age, with the utilisation of refuse materials being essential to reduce environmental contamination. The usage of sustainable and biodegradable biocomposites from these wastages is becoming more widespread in research. This work incorporated human hair from local saloon to strengthen the mechanical performance of the zucchini fibre reinforced polypropylene biocomposite. Zucchini fibre was first reinforced in the polypropylene matrix through hot-pressing with various fibre loading levels (5,10,15, and 20 wt%). Subsequent to this, hybrid bio-composites were produced by merging human hair and zucchini fibre in the polypropylene matrix, with a ratio of 1:1. Measuring the mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural and impact of each composite revealed that hybrid bio-composites reinforced with both human hair and zucchini fibre outperformed those reinforced only with zucchini fibre in terms of mechanical properties at each fibre loading level. Scrutiny of SEM analysis revealed that the hybrid biocomposite reinforced with human hair and zucchini fibre had a better fibre distribution, thereby justifying the improved mechanical properties. The 10% fibre loaded hybrid biocomposite attained the optimal mechanical properties among all samples, showcasing an 11.35% increase in tensile strength compared to pure polypropylene. All these qualities make this composite ideal for use in automobile interiors.

Stability mechanism of Monascus pigment-soy protein isolate-maltodextrin complex.

Monascus pigment (MP) is a natural food coloring with vital physiological functions but prone to degradation and color fading under light conditions. This study investigated the effect of complex formation of soybean protein isolate (SPI), maltodextrin (MD), and MP on the photostability of MP. Light stability was assessed through retention rate and color difference. Fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), circular dichroism (CD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) explored MP, SPI, and MD interactions, clarifying the MP-SPI-MD complex mechanism on MP's light stability. Microstructure and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analyzed the morphology and thermal properties. The retention rate of MP increased to approximately 80%, and minimal color difference was observed when adding SPI and MD simultaneously. FS revealed hydrophobic interaction between MP and SPI. FTIR showed intensity changes and peak shifts in admin I band and admin II band, which proved the hydrophobic interaction. CD showed a decrease in α-helix content and an increase in β-sheet content after complex formation, indicating strengthened hydrogen bonding interactions. SEM analysis demonstrated that MP was attached to the surface and interior of complexes. XRD showed MP as crystalline, while SPI and MD were amorphous, complexes exhibited weakened or absent peaks, suggesting MP encapsulation. The results of DSC were consistent with XRD. SPI and MD enveloped MP through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction, ultimately enhancing its light stability and providing insights for pigment-protein-polysaccharide interactions and improving pigment stability in the food industry. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Self-Concept and Self-Efficacy on Learning Engagement and Subsequent Reading Performance: The Difference Between L1 and L2 Reading in First-Grade Students

ABSTRACT Reading self-beliefs, comprising self-concept and self-efficacy, play a pivotal role in shaping students’ learning engagement and learning outcomes. However, existing literature on the self-beliefs of school-entry students primarily originates from Western contexts, and the exploration of differences in self-beliefs, engagement in learning, and their impact on reading performance among L1 and L2 learners remains uncharted territory. This dearth of knowledge leaves us questioning whether self-concept and self-efficacy function uniquely in shaping the reading development of L1 and L2 children. Research Findings: By conducting multigroup SEM analysis, this study found no significant differences in self-efficacy or self-concept between L1 and L2 Chinese first-grade students. However, it did reveal distinct patterns in their impact: In L1 students, self-efficacy and self-concept predict learning engagement, with self-concept having a stronger influence on reading performance. Conversely, for L2 students, self-efficacy primarily affects their learning engagement, which indirectly impacts reading performance. Practice or Policy: This study enhances our understanding of different roles of self-beliefs in L1 and L2 learning and offers pedagogical insights for language teaching in countries with both ethnic minority and local populations.

The Morphological and Thermal Characteristics of Hollow-Glass-Microsphere-Coated Phase Change Material–Cow Pie Embedded Recycled Plastic Tiles for Cool Roofs

This study addresses the global plastic waste crisis and the urban heat island effect by developing an innovative solution: recycled plastic roof tiles embedded with phase change material (PCM) and coated with hollow-glass-microsphere-based white paint. The samples were fabricated with cow pie fibers, OM37 and OM42 PCM materials with different wt./vol. values, i.e., 15/50, 20/50, 25/50, 30/50 ratios. The fabricated tiles were coated with hollow glass microspheres to provide a reflective layer. The tiles’ effectiveness was evaluated through morphological examination and thermal analysis. The SEM analysis revealed an excellent bonding ability for the PCM blend, i.e., OM37 and OM42 at a 20/50 ratio (wt./vol.) with cow pie fibers. Adding cow pie fibers to the PCM shifted the melting points of OM37 and OM42, indicating an increased heat storage capacity in both blends. The thermal conductivity results revealed decreased thermal conductivity with an increased cow pie fiber percentage. The recycled plastic roof tile of the PCM composite at a 20/50 (wt./vol.) ratio showed good thermal properties. Upon testing in real-time conditions in a physical setup, the roof tiles showed a temperature reduction of 8 °C from outdoors to indoors during the peak of summer. In winter, cozy temperatures were maintained indoors due to the heat regulation from the roof.

Analysis of QRIS Users in Indonesia Society in the Cashless

The development of the digital era is a time when information and communication technology has changed the way people live. One of the developments in the digital era is the increase in cellphone users, laptops, and using the internet from these developments making changes in the way of transactions in Indonesia. The digital way of transacting also affects consumer behavior in shopping, for example, currently many consumers choose to shop with non-cash payment methods. This study analyzes a user's intention and behavior towards the QRIS payment channel using the UTAUT2 theory. This study uses a survey method with a questionnaire to collect data from 364 respondents who are users of the QRIS payment channel in Indonesia with the criteria for QRIS payment channel users and those who have used and are over 17 years old. This research is quantitative research to measure and analyze data with the aim of testing the causal relationship between variables. This research uses SEM analysis with the help of LISREL V.8.8 software to analyze the data. The results of this study indicate that the intention to use the QRIS payment channel in the non-cash era using the UTAUT2 theory is influenced by effort expectancy, social influence, trust, habit, and perceived risk. Meanwhile, use behavior is influenced by habit and behavioral intention.

Cascade synthesis of D-phenyllactic acid using amorphous metal-organic framework-modified Escherichia coli

D-phenyllactic acid is an important medical intermediate and a potential green preservative. Due to its extensive use and high demand, there has been significant research interest in developing efficient synthesis methods. In this study, we aimed to efficiently produce D-phenyllactic acid from L-phenylalanine through a two-step cascade reaction using a coupled catalytic system consisting of two bacteria strains (E. coli/pET28a-lrldh and E. coli/pET28a-ladd2). To enhance the stability of this catalytic system, we encapsulated the two recombinant E. coli strains with amorphous ZIF-90, which was thoroughly characterized using various methods including SEM, FT-IR, TGA, XRD, XPS, and CLSM analysis. Compared to free cells, the immobilized living materials (amorphous ZIF-90@E. coli) showed good stability in harsh environments and superior recyclability. When applied to the production of D-PLA, the amorphous ZIF-90@E. coli system achieved a yield of 9.00 g/L and a conversion of 89.4 %. This successful coupling catalysis from L-phenylalanine to D-PLA indicates the potential of aZIF-90@E. coli for biosynthesis of D-phenyllactic acid in future industrial applications.

Littered cigarette butts in both coastal and inland cities of China: occurrence and environmental risk assessment

Cigarette butts (CBs) pollution is a critical global environmental issue, yet limited research exists on CBs pollution in both coastal and inland Chinese cities with varying development levels. This study investigated CBs occurrence, contamination, Cigarette Butts Pollution Index (CBPI), and heavy metal leakage in four cities. The results of CBs collected over multiple days revealed higher contamination levels in coastal city of Dalian (0.10 ± 0.03 CBs/m2), inland cities of Baoding (0.06 ± 0.02 CBs/m2) and Meizhou (0.07 ± 0.02 CBs/m2) compared to first-tier coastal city of Guangzhou (0.03 ± 0.02 CBs/m2). Patterns of CBs occurrence and CBPI varied across land usage and cities development level. SEM and EDS analysis identified microplastics and heavy metal particles released from CBs in water environments. ICP-MS detected a total of 629.7 μg/L of 14 heavy metals. Approximately 1.9 ± 0.9 g/km2 of heavy metals are leaked daily in Chinese cities due to CBs, posing a severe threat to soil and water safety given the indiscriminate disposal of CBs. This study offers scientific insights into CBs pollution and underscores the pressing need for effective measures to mitigate environmental hazards, particularly heavy metal and microplastics contamination released from CBs in China.

Engaging and (the Illusion of) Learning? Examining the Relationship Between Different Social Media Activities and Reproductive Health Knowledge

Social media have become fundamental platforms for learning about health, including reproductive health knowledge. However, little is known about what specific user activity is conducive to learning about reproductive health and by what means. Drawing upon the cognitive mediation model, this study examines how different social media activities function in terms of elaboration and knowledge gain. Our hypothesized model was largely supported by a nationwide online survey with 1,000 Chinese women residing in both rural and urban areas. The results revealed the crucial role of information elaboration in bridging different social media activities with both subjective and factual reproductive health knowledge. Interestingly, public reposting of reproductive health information was found to be positively related to subjective knowledge but negatively related to factual knowledge, suggesting the emergence of an illusion of knowing among our participants. Multigroup SEM analyses revealed that the positive roles of scanning and private sharing in encouraging elaboration were more pronounced among users with lower levels of need for cognition. The findings are expected to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of health learning based on users’ social media activities and intrinsic motivations for learning.

Cerium Oxide and Neodymium Oxide Phytoextraction by Ryegrass in Bioenhanced Hydroponic Environments

Sustainable technologies for the recovery of rare earth elements (REE) from waste need to be developed to decrease the volume of ore mining extractions and its negative environmental consequences, while simultaneously restoring previously impacted lands. This is critical due to the extensive application of REE in everyday life from electronic devices to energy and medical technologies, and the dispersed distribution of REE resources in the world. REE recovery by plants has been previously studied but the feasibility of REE phytoextraction from a poorly soluble solid phase (i.e., nanoparticles) by different plant species has been rarely investigated. In this study, the effect of biostimulation and bioaugmentation on phytorecovery of REE nanoparticles (REE-NP) was investigated by exposing ryegrass seeds to REE-NP in hydroponic environments. This was studied in two sets of experiments: bioaugmentation (using CeO2 nanoparticles and Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 pure culture), and biostimulation (using CeO2 or Nd2O3 nanoparticles and endogenous microorganisms). Addition of M. extorquens AM1 in bioaugmentation experiment including 500 mg/L CeO2 nanoparticles could not promote the nanoparticles accumulation in both natural and surface-sterilized treatments. However, it enhanced the translocation of Ce from roots to shoots in sterile samples. Moreover, another REE-utilizing bacterium, Bacillus subtilis, was enriched more than M. extorquens in control samples (no M. extorquens AM1), and associated with 52% and 14% higher Ce extraction in both natural (165 μg/gdried-plant) and surface-sterilized samples (136 μg/gdried-plant), respectively; showing the superior effect of endogenous microorganisms’ enrichment over bioaugmentation in this experiment. In the biostimulation experiments, up to 705 μg/gdried-plant Ce and 19,641 μg/gdried-plant Nd could be extracted when 500 mg/L REE-NP were added. Furthermore, SEM-EDS analysis of the surface and longitudinal cross-sections of roots in Nd2O3 treatments confirmed surface and intracellular accumulation of Nd2O3-NP. These results demonstrate stimulation of endogenous microbial community can lead to an enhanced REE phytoaccumulation.

The Association of Emotion Regulation and Somatic Symptoms.

People with functional somatic symptoms have difficulties in various stages of the emotion regulation (ER) process (1). As an adaptive and flexible use of ER strategies is a core tenet of emotional health, having difficulties in this area is often assumed to be the key mechanism behind functional somatic symptoms. Following a dimensional population-based sampling approach, we investigated emotion regulation abilities across a broad range of people and tested possible associations with somatic symptom reporting, habitual ER use as well as various subclinical constructs (such as alexithymia and anxiety). In a sample of N = 254 persons, somatic symptom distress (PHQ-15, HiTOP somatoform spectrum), trait emotion regulation facets (ERQ, ERS) as well as the emotion regulation abilities (suppression and reappraisal) were assessed. Correlations (frequentist and Bayesian), ANOVAs, and Structural Equation Models were used to analyze the data. Correlational and SEM analyses revealed that general symptom severity (both on the somatoform HiTOP and PHQ-15) was not significantly associated with emotion regulation effectiveness, general arousal, or general valence. The sensory component of pain symptoms (r = - .708, p = .023), as well as health anxiety (r = - .443, p = .028) were significantly negatively associated with effective emotion regulation. Emotion regulation effectiveness appears independent of general somatic symptom distress. We make recommendations for clinical interventions in light of these complex findings.

An Experimental Study on the Hardness, Inter Laminar Shear Strength, and Water Absorption Behavior of Habeshian Banana Fiber Reinforced Composites

ABSTRACT The current study examines the effect of NaOH treatment on the hardness, inter-laminar shear strength (ILSS) and water absorption behavior of epoxy composites reinforced with banana pseudostem fibers. Using the hand-lay-up method, six distinct samples are created that are composed of layers of woven and short banana fibers in both a plain and hybrid form. Plain- treated woven composites reveal the highest hardness and ILLS properties followed by the hybrid and short fiber composites. The random orientation of the fiber structure in short fiber composites results in the largest moisture absorption; this behavior is further supported by elucidating the kinetic parameters and diffusion coefficient parameters. SEM analysis confirms the improved surface of the NaOH-treated composite material.