Stability Characteristics Research Articles

Metal-Free Synthesis, Single Crystal Analysis and Photophysical Behavior of p-Terphenyls

A simple and convenient metal-free approach for synthesizing p-terphenyls 7a–f is presented through a carbanion-induced ring transformation reaction involving 6-biphenyl-2H-pyran-2-ones 5 with pyruvic acetyl dimethyl aldehyde 6. Further the prepared dimethoxy p-terphenyls 7b-c,f were converted into diethoxy p-terphenyls 8a-c. The base-mediated ring transformation reactions proceeded smoothly under mild reaction conditions, resulting the formation of ring transformation products 7a-f and 8a-c in good to excellent yields. This synthetic approach allows the incorporation of both electron-withdrawing and electron-donating functionalities into p-terphenyl framework. Moreover, the structure of compound 7a was confirmed by its single crystal X-ray analysis. Additionally, the photophysical properties of synthesized p-terphenyls were analysed using UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy. Interestingly, the synthesized p-terphenyls 7a–f showed blue fluorescence in chloroform. The solvatochromic behaviour and concentration studies of compound 7d was also perforemd. Additionally, the thermal stability characteristics of compound 7d was also studied using TG and DTA analysis.

Estimation and Restoration of Dried Soil Layers in a Slope‐Gully Unit of the Chinese Loess Plateau

ABSTRACTDried soil layer (DSL) is a phenomenon of deep soil desiccation caused by soil water content (SWC) deficiency. Relevant studies in the fragmented terrain of Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP) remain limited. In a typical slope‐gully unit near the Liudaogou catchment, SWC was measured using neutron probes on 19 occasions at 15 observational locations. In order to reveal the temporal stability and elimination degree of DSLs, available soil moisture (ASM) and DSL were estimated by representative sites which were determined through the temporal stability method, and the reliability of simulating mean condition of the study area via representative locations was assessed. Results show that: (1) the dynamics of DSL was characterised by complexity and diversity. The ASM within the DSL (DSL‐ASM), ASM within the sandwiched DSL (SDSL‐ASM) and quantitative index (QI) varied within the range of 2.75%–3.11%, 2.98%–4.22% and 0.254–0.356, respectively. (2) The possibility of development and recovery for DSL and SDSL in deep layers were less than that in shallow layers. The maximum depth of DSL (DSLMD) was significantly and negatively related to the standard deviation of relative difference (SDRD) of DSL‐ASM, the maximum depth of SDSL (SDSLMD) was negatively related to the SDRD of SDSL‐ASM. (3) The prediction results of ASM above 300 cm depth were more accurate than other layers (R2 = 0.89). The DSL‐ASM had more accurate ability of prediction than SDSL‐ASM and QI. On the analysis of time stability characteristics of ASM and DSLs, the locations of A2 and C3 can better represent the mean conditions of ASM at three and four soil layers, respectively. C2, A1 and A1 can better represent the average levels of DSL‐ASM, SDSL‐ASM and QI, respectively (R2 = 0.43, 0.14 and 0.18). (4) The restoration degrees of DSLs mainly showed no elimination and slight elimination, the DSLs cannot be completely eliminated within a short time. We proposed that scientific regulation of SWC can alleviate the formation and development of DSLs at a certain extent, and provide the possibility for DSLs nonoccurrence.

The carbon stability and energy characteristics of tea waste-derived biochar: Effects of pyrolytic temperature and co-pyrolysis with nanoscale zero-valent iron

Pyrolytic temperature and Fe addition are two typical factors widely used for modifying the characteristic of biochar, however, their co-effect on the C emission reduction (enhancing C stability) and fuel features of tea waste biochar remain unclear. Hence, this study systematically investigated the effects of pyrolytic temperature (300–900 °C) and nanoscale zero-valent iron (Fe) co-pyrolysis on the C stability and fuel features of TBC. Herein, H/C, (O + N)/C, FTIR spectrum, XRD spectrum, Ig/(Id + Ig) and DOC release suggested that pyrolytic temperature improvement decreased the aliphaticity, polarity and DOC content, but increased the aromaticity and graphitic degree for TBC. Meanwhile, Fe co-pyrolysis decreased the polarity and enhanced the graphitic degree of TBC at 800–900 °C. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that Fe co-pyrolysis lowered the thermostability of C. Differently, H2O2 oxidization method indicated Fe co-pyrolysis significantly enhanced the chemical stability of C. Furthermore, Uv–vis and fluorescence spectrum indicated that pyrolytic temperature improvement decreased the aromaticity and molecular size of biochar-derived DOC. Fe co-pyrolysis increased the release of large molecular humic-like matters rather than small molecular protein-like matters. All the results suggested high pyrolytic temperature and Fe co-pyrolysis could improve the environmental (physico-chemical) C stability of TBC and the C emission reduction. Additionally, TBC presented a considerable energy densification ratio (EDR) ranges (1.355–1.450) of wood- and straw-derived biochars, indicating TBC could be a potential high-performance biofuel to alleviate the energy crisis. This study provides important information to optimize pyrolysis conditions to re-use of tea waste for C emission reduction and fuel substitute.

Artificial intelligence prediction of the mechanical properties of banana peel-ash and bagasse blended geopolymer concrete

This research explores the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques to assess the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete made from a blend of Banana Peel-Ash (BPA) and Sugarcane Bagasse Ash (SCBA), using a sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) to sodium hydroxide (NaOH) ratio ranging from 1.5 to 3. Utilizing three AI methodologies—Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), and Gene Expression Programming (GEP)—the study aims to enhance prediction accuracy for the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete based on 104 datasets. By optimizing mix designs through varying proportions of BPA and SCBA, alkaline activator molarity, and aggregate-to-binder ratios, the research identified combinations that significantly enhance mechanical properties, demonstrating notable international relevance as it contributes to global efforts in sustainable construction by effectively utilizing industrial by-products. The experimental results demonstrated that increasing the molarity of the alkaline activator from 4 to 10 M significantly enhanced both the compressive and flexural strengths of the geopolymer concrete. Specifically, a mixture containing 52.5% SCBA and 47.5% BPA at a 10 M molarity achieved a maximum compressive strength of 33.17 MPa after 20 h of curing. In contrast, a mixture composed of 95% SCBA and 5% BPA at a 4 M molarity exhibited a substantially lower compressive strength of only 21.27 MPa. Additionally, the highest recorded flexural strength of 9.95 MPa (77.25% SCBA and 22.5 BPA) was observed at the 10 M molarity, while the flexural strength at 4 M was lowest, at 4.12 MPa (95% SCBA and 5% BPA). Microstructural analysis through Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (ED-SEM) revealed insights into the pore structure and elemental composition of the concrete, while Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) provided data on the material’s thermal stability and decomposition characteristics. Performance analysis of the AI models showed that the ANN model had an average MSE of 1.338, RMSE of 1.157, MAE of 3.104, and R2 of 0.989, while the ANFIS model outperformed with an MSE of 0.345, RMSE of 0.587, MAE of 1.409, and R2 of 0.998. The GEP model demonstrated an MSE of 1.233, RMSE of 1.110, MAE of 1.828, and R2 of 0.992, confirming that ANFIS is the most accurate model for predicting the mechanical and rheological properties of geopolymer concrete. This study highlights the potential of integrating AI with experimental data to optimize the formulation and performance of geopolymer concrete, advancing sustainable construction practices by effectively utilizing industrial by-products.

Identification and characterization of alkaline hydrolytic degradation products of ivacaftor by UPLC-PDA and UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS techniques.

The study of inherent stability characteristics of drugs has been advocated to be important by various regulatory agencies like the ICH, USFDA, and others. The current work was envisaged to investigate the forced degradation profile of the drug ivacaftor under ICH-prescribed stress conditions, identification of its potential degradants, and postulation of the degradation routes for their generation. The stress degradation studies were performed on the drug as per the ICH guideline Q1A(R2). A UPLC-photodiode array-based chromatographic method was developed to satisfactorily resolve the drug from its degradation products, validated in accordance with various ICH prescribed parameters, and assessed for its BAGI practicality index. The degradation products were identified and characterized by UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS studies. The drug was found to significantly degrade under conditions of alkaline hydrolytic stress and it was found to be stable under all other stressor environments including acid/neutral hydrolytic, photolytic, thermal, and oxidative stress. Four alkaline hydrolytic degradation products (I-IV) were revealed by UPLC-QTOF-MS studies which were well-resolved from the drug over a C18 UPLC column by the developed UPLC-PDA method. The detection wavelength was selected as 310 nm. Characterization of the four degradation products (I-IV) was carried out by their mass spectral data and their respective degradation routes were elucidated. A UPLC-PDA method was developed and validated for ivacaftor and its practicality BAGI index was computed. Four alkaline hydrolytic degradation products of ivacaftor were revealed through UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS studies and corresponding degradation routes were elucidated.

Experimental study on the heat input behavior of wire-arc additively manufactured 316L stainless steel parts for repairing applications

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) as an emerging manufacturing technique for fabricating large size metallic components with a higher deposition rate and lower material wastage. In this research, a thin walled-part was fabricated from stainless steel 316L with various heat input (HI) (low heat deposited wall (LHDW) and high heat deposited wall (HHDW) using the cold metal transfer (CMT)-based WAAM process. The microstructure characteristics, metallurgical characterization, and mechanical properties of the WAAM manufactured thin-walled component were examined. The deposited wall measuring 120 mm in length and 50 mm in height was fabricated by WAAM using ER316L wire and CMT. Microstructure of the deposit parts consists of the equiaxed, coarse, and columnar grains with epitaxial growth of dendrites were formed. The decrease in HI leads to the improvement of material hardness, yield and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) as well as the percentage elongation after fracture of the material decreases. EBSD analysis demonstrates the average grain size of 0.98 µm in LHDW and 2.43 in HHDW respectively. XRD results shows that main crystal structure found in WAAM thin-walled sample was γ-austenite phases. The microhardness distribution of the fabricated component exhibited the stability characteristics with the average value ranging between 213–237 HV. The tensile studies demonstrate the UTS of the LHDW and HHDW along the horizontal direction are 477 MPa greater than the vertical direction of 468 MPa and observed the anisotropy properties. The fractured surface was characterized by the emergence of obvious dimples revealing the ductile fracture. The lower HI and finer solidification structure of component fabricated by LHDW has greater tensile and hardness properties than that of HHDW. This study presents the initial assessment results for repairing stainless steel components subjected to mechanical damage.

Electric Demulsification Membrane Technology for Confined Separation of Oil-Water Emulsions.

Demulsification technology for separation of oil-water (O/W) emulsions, especially those stabilized by surfactants, is urgently needed yet remains highly challenging due to their inherent stability characteristics. Electrocoalescence has emerged as a promising solution owing to its simplicity, efficacy, and versatility, yet hindered by substantial energy consumption (e.g., >50 kWh/m3) along with undesirable Faradic reactions. Herein, we propose an innovative electric demulsification technology that leverages conductive membrane microchannels to confine oil droplets from the oil-water emulsion for achieving high energy-efficient coalescence of oil droplets. The proposed system reduces the required voltage down to 12 V, 2 orders of magnitude lower than that of conventional electrocoalescence systems, while achieving a similar separation efficacy of 91.4 ± 3.0% at a low energy consumption (3 kWh/m3) and an ultrahigh permeability >3000 L/(m2·h·bar). In situ fluorescence microscopy combined with COMSOL simulations provided insight into the fundamental mechanistic steps of an electric demulsification process confined to membrane microchannels: (1) rapid electric-field redistribution of oil droplet surfactant molecules, (2) enhanced collision probability due to confined oil droplet concentration under dielectrophoretic forces, and (3) increased collision efficacy facilitated by the membrane pore structure. This strategy may revolutionize the next generation of demulsification and oil-water separation innovations.

Bifurcation analysis, phase portraits and optical soliton solutions of the perturbed temporal evolution equation in optical fibers

The perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation plays a crucial role in various scientific and technological fields. This equation, an extension of the classical nonlinear Schrödinger equation, incorporates perturbative effects that are essential for modeling real-world phenomena more accurately. In this paper, we investigate the traveling wave solutions of the perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation using the bifurcation theory of dynamical systems. Graphical presentations of the phase portrait are provided, revealing the traveling wave solutions under various conditions. By employing the auxiliary equation method, we derive a variety of solutions including periodic, dark, singular and bright optical solitons. To provide comprehensive and clearer depiction of the model’s behavior 2D, contour and 3D graphical representations are offered. We also highlight specific constraint conditions that ensure the presence of these obtained solutions. This study expands the scope of known exact solutions and their stability qualities which is offering an extensive analytical technique which enhances previous research. The novelty of our research lies in its examination of bifurcation analysis and the auxiliary equation method within the context of a perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger wave equation for the first time. By integrating these two perspectives, this paper contributes to establishing the complex dynamics and stability characteristics of soliton solutions under perturbations.

Mathematical Modelling and Chemical Analysis to Characterise Anthocyanin Self-association Interactions Influencing Colour Expression and Stability in Young Red Wines

AbstractAnthocyanins are phenolic compounds that provide colour to young red wines following extraction from grape skins, and their reaction kinetics are not well understood as they exist within a complex pH-dependent multistate system. For commercial wineries to best control anthocyanin colour expression that is a major determinant for red wine quality, there is a critical need for behaviours of all pH-dependent monomeric and self-associated anthocyanins to be considered together. In response, the current study employed mathematical and experimental techniques to reveal kinetic and steady-state behaviours of all species of a model anthocyanin, malvidin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (M3G), within three Shiraz red wines throughout fermentation. Investigator-developed models represented the following: (i) acid–base reactions that form red, purple, and blue anthocyanin monomers; (ii) hydration reactions that result in monomeric colour loss; and (iii.) physical self-association interactions that temporally stabilise anthocyanin colour. Simulations were validated experimentally using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC–DAD) and colourimetric analysis of wine samples. Moreover, a unique predictive modelling framework was developed that takes in measured values for anthocyanin concentration, pH, and temperature at the onset of fermentation, and output data describing corresponding wine colour expression and stability characteristics that would arise after fermentation has progressed. Results of the current study elucidate complex reaction kinetics occurring between anthocyanin species under dynamic red wine conditions and provide meaningful predictions for future wine colour and shelf-life characteristics. Outputs may be used to inform key winemaking decisions influencing red wine quality and to optimise the use of winery resources throughout the fermentation process.

Effect of slope protection using concrete waste on slope stability during rainfall

Due to climate change, higher rainfall infiltration is expected in the future and it may cause a slope failure. Simultaneously, infrastructure construction and urban redevelopment are rapidly generating large amounts of construction and demolition waste that also contributes to global climate change. To ensure the stability of the slope, it is important to find cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternatives. Waste material such as recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) can be utilized to protect the slope. The use of RCA for slope protection is that it can be used as a material for the capillary barrier system. The objective of this paper is to investigate the characteristics of pore-water pressure distribution and slope stability with the application of RCA protection during rainfall in comparison with the original slope through numerical modeling. The SWCC for the soil and RCA materials were measured using a high-suction polymer sensor (HSPS) and Tempe cell, respectively. The volume changes of the soil were measured using 3D scanner. SEEP/W was used to conduct the seepage analyses and obtain the change of pore-water pressure distribution due to rainfall infiltration. SLOPE/W was used to evaluate the stability of the slope with different climatic conditions. The use of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) for slope protection from rainfall infiltration has been investigated in this paper. The results showed that the safety factor of the slope increased with the addition of RCA protection. Rainfall infiltration causes a reduction in soil suction and hence reduces soil shear strength, the safety factor will also decrease since the soil will become weaker.

Using Rigidity and Conjugation of Subunits to Modulate Supramolecular Topologies Constructed by Half-Sandwich Fragments.

The synthesis of supramolecular compounds with a high degree of controllability and the targeted modulation of their topological transitions pose significant challenges in situ. In this study, we have successfully constructed an array of discrete structures based on a series of bidentate pyridyl ligands (L1, L2, and L3), which were subsequently ligated with half-sandwiched (Cp*Ir fragments) building blocks. Our further investigations elucidate a strategy for coordinating the relative lengths of the bidentate ligands with the building blocks, achieving specific concentrations that drive the transformation of tetranuclear metal macrocycles into Borromean rings. Notably, the distinct characteristics of the three pyridyl ligands markedly influence the efficiency of synthesis and the topological conversion of the supramolecular macrocycles. Detailed structural analyses reveal that π-π stacking interactions, the electron-donating capabilities of the ligands, and hydrogen-bonding interactions are pivotal in stabilizing these molecular macrocycles and in facilitating their transformation to Borromean rings. The analyses underscore the importance of the electron-rich effect induced by the sulfur atoms in the ligands and the regulation and modulation of the pyridine functional group in contributing to the structural stability and altered characteristics of the macrocycles.

A Computational Review on Localized High‐Concentration Electrolytes in Lithium Batteries

AbstractElectrolyte engineering plays a vital role in improving the battery performance of lithium batteries. The idea of localized high‐concentration electrolytes that are derived by adding “diluent” in high‐concentration electrolytes has been proposed to retain the merits and alleviate the disadvantages of high‐concentration electrolytes, and it has become the focus of attention in high‐voltage lithium batteries, flame‐retardant lithium batteries, and low‐temperature lithium batteries. Extensive efforts have been made to elucidate the fundamentals of localized high‐concentration electrolytes. This review provides an overview of state‐of‐the‐art computational progress in the studies of localized high‐concentration electrolytes, focusing on the application of computational techniques to analyze the redox stability, solvation structures, and interface characteristics of lithium batteries with localized high‐concentration electrolytes. Integrated with experimental approaches, complementing each other, computational methods are believed to be conducive to understanding the working mechanism and designing localized high‐concentration electrolytes for better lithium batteries in the future.

Advancements in Mixed-Matrix Membranes for Various Separation Applications: State of the Art and Future Prospects

Integrating nanomaterials into membranes has revolutionized selective transport processes, offering enhanced properties and functionalities. Mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) are nanocomposite membranes (NCMs) that incorporate inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) into organic polymeric matrices, augmenting mechanical strength, thermal stability, separation performance, and antifouling characteristics. Various synthesis methods, like phase inversion, layer-by-layer assembly, electrospinning, and surface modification, enable the production of tailored MMMs. A trade-off exists between selectivity and flux in pristine polymer membranes or plain inorganic ceramic/zeolite membranes. In contrast, in MMMs, NPs exert a profound influence on membrane performance, enhancing both permeability and selectivity simultaneously, besides exhibiting profound antibacterial efficacy. Membranes reported in this work find application in diverse separation processes, notably in niche membrane-based applications, by addressing challenges such as membrane fouling and degradation, low flux, and selectivity, besides poor rejection properties. This review comprehensively surveys recent advances in nanoparticle-integrated polymeric membranes across various fields of water purification, heavy metal removal, dye degradation, gaseous separation, pervaporation (PV), fuel cells (FC), and desalination. Efforts have been made to underscore the role of nanomaterials in advancing environmental remediation efforts and addressing drinking water quality concerns through interesting case studies reported in the literature.

Levee Soil Stratification Based on PAM Cluster Analysis of Measured Soil Samples from Multiple Probe Drilling Sites

Accurate soil stratification is crucial for levee safety evaluation, yet limited field sampling often hinders comprehensive analysis. This study applies the Partitioning Around Medoids (PAM, also known as K-Medoids) clustering approach for levee soil stratification using data from multiple probe drilling sites. Focusing on a Yellow River levee section in China as a study case, the PAM clustering approach effectively identifies its distinct soil types and reconstructs its soil stratification by analyzing key soil properties relevant to levee seepage and stability characteristics, including coefficient of permeability, angle of internal friction, and cohesion. The resulting soil stratification, when applied to seepage and stability analyses of the levee section, yields relatively high safety factors, indicating low failure risks under design flood conditions. These analytical results align with recent monitoring records, validating the effectiveness of the approach. A sensitivity analysis on the number of clusters, the key parameter in the PAM clustering approach, demonstrates the typical existence of an optimal value balancing computational accuracy and practical interpretability. A comparison with a hierarchical clustering approach further confirms the robustness of the PAM clustering approach. This study contributes to improving levee soil stratification methodology and enhancing levee safety evaluation, particularly when dealing with limited and spatially distributed sampling data.

Exploring the molecular pathways of the activation process in PPARγ recurrent bladder cancer mutants.

The intricate involvement of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ) in glucose homeostasis and adipogenesis is well-established. However, its role in cancer, particularly luminal bladder cancer, remains debated. The overexpression and activation of PPARγ are implicated in tumorigenesis. Specific gain-of-function mutations (M280I, I290M, and T475M) within the ligand-binding domain of PPARγ are associated with bladder cancer and receptor activation. The underlying molecular pathways prompted by these mutations remain unclear. We employed a dual-basin structure-based model (db-SBM) to explore the conformational dynamics between the inactive and active states of PPARγ and examined the effects of the M280I, I290M, and T475M mutations. Our findings, consistent with the existing literature, reveal heightened ligand-independent transcriptional activity in the I290M and T475M mutants. Both mutants showed enhanced stabilization of the active state compared to the wild-type receptor, with the I290M mutation promoting a specific transition route, making it a prime candidate for further study. Electrostatic analysis identified residues K303 and E488 as pivotal in the I290M activation cascade. Biophysical assays confirmed that disrupting the K303-E488 interaction reduced the thermal stabilization characteristic of the I290M mutation. Our study demonstrates the predictive capabilities of combining simulation and cheminformatics methods, validated by biochemical experiments, to gain insights into molecular activation mechanisms and identify target residues for protein modulation.

CDO-TCN-BiGRU: An Optimized Hybrid Deep Learning Model for Shared Bicycles Demand Forecasting

<div>Accurate prediction of the demand for shared bicycles is not only conducive to the operation of relevant enterprises, but also conducive to improving the image of the city, facilitating people’s travel, and solving the balance between supply and demand of bicycles in the region. To precisely predict the demand of shared bicycles, a model combining temporal convolution network (TCN) and bidirectional gating recurrent unit (BiGRU) model is proposed, and the Chernobyl disaster optimizer (CDO) is used to optimize its hyperparameters. It has the ability of TCN to extract sequence features and gated recurrent unit (GRU) to mine time series data and combine the characteristics of CDO with fast convergence and high global search ability, so as to reduce the influence of model hyperparameters. This article selects the shared bicycles travel data in Washington, analyzes its multi-characteristics, and trains it as the input characteristics of the model. In the experiments, we performed comparison study and ablation study. The results show that the prediction error of the proposed model is less than other comparative models. Therefore, CDO-TCN-BiGRU model has the characteristics of high prediction precision and good stability.</div>

State-Space Basins for Monopedal Jumping with Stable Landing

Abstract Maintaining stability during jumping remains a challenge due to its hybrid dynamics. Despite recent advancements in the control of jumping robots, existing research lacks an accurate and comprehensive criterion for the stability of jumping. This study proposes a general criterion for jumping that incorporates the system’s nonlinear dynamics and environmental constraints. The stability basins are formulated as a state-space partition based on a rigorous definition extending the balanced state basin (BSB) concept, which has been validated as a stability criterion for biped robots in legged stance. A hybrid approach, using a combination of analytical and optimization methods, solves the flight and stance phases of jumping as independent sub-problems. The basins are computed for a monopedal jumping robot, Salto-1P, and validated with simulations. To demonstrate its general applicability, two distinct flight-to-stance tasks are considered: targeted jumping and cat-like righting. Analysis of each task’s stability basins and the landing BSB reveals the inherent trade-offs between stability and the task requirements for variations in the initial state variables such as speed, orientation, and height. The stability basins represent the system’s fundamental controller-independent stability characteristics and can be applied to the mechanical design, control, and fall prediction of jumping robots.

Theoretical predictions of CO2, H2 and H2O adsorption mechanisms on M2C-MXene: Selectivity and potential application insights

M2C-MXenes, owing to their abundant adsorption sites, exhibit significant potential in CO2 capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) and hydrogen energy applications, contributing to hydrogen utilization and global carbon reduction, and thus solving intractable energy and environmental problems. However, the extensive variety of M2C compounds poses challenges to the systematic evaluation of their applications in these fields. The exploration of the adsorption properties of M2Cs is a key fundamental aspect of these studies, and therefore, this study employs calculations across 456 adsorption systems to elucidate the adsorption mechanisms of 19 M2C compounds for small molecules (CO2, H2 and H2O). The results indicate that these M2C materials possess structural stability and metallic characteristics, with periodic variations in the d-band center aligning with trends in CO2 adsorption energy. Notably, molecular orientation impacts adsorption energy more significantly than adsorption sites, particularly for CO2, while M2C compounds primarily exhibit physical adsorption towards H2. Specifically, Sc2C preferentially adsorbs CO2 in atmospheric conditions, and shows chemical adsorption towards H2O, but exhibits negligible adsorption for H2; conversely, Cr2C demonstrates higher adsorption potential for H2. Both materials exhibit favorable thermodynamic stability, suggesting Sc2C is suitable for CCUS applications, while Cr2C holds promising prospects for hydrogen storage.

Therapeutic effect of Micro-Implant Anchorage in orthodontics

Objective: Micro implant anchorage (MIA), as a new orthodontic treatment technique, has the characteristics of simple operation, light trauma, and high stability, and has been widely used in clinical practice. This study compared the therapeutic effects of MIA and the traditional straight wire appliance (SWA) in orthodontic practice. Methods: Clinical data of 119 patients who underwent orthodontic treatment in Yulin First Hospital from January 2022 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the treatment records, 61 patients received MIA orthodontic treatment (MIA group), and 58 patients received traditional straight wire appliance (SWA) orthodontic treatment (SWA group). Treatment effect, periodontal index, and levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG), interleukin-6 (IL6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) of the two groups were compared. Results: The total efficacy of MIA group was significantly higher than that of SWA group (P<0.05). After the treatment, bleeding index (BI), plaque index (PLI), probing depth (PD) and looseness in the MIA group were significantly lower than those in the SWA group (P<0.05). After the treatment, levels of OPG were significantly higher, while IL6 and hsCRP levels were significantly lower in the MIA compared to the SWA group (P<0.05). MIA was associated with significantly lower complication rate compared to the SWA (P<0.05). Conclusions: Compared with SWA, MIA is associated with better orthodontic effect. This mode of treatment can increase OPG levels, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of complications. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.10442 How to cite this: Shi Y, Mi L, Liu J, Liu X, Hao Y. Therapeutic effect of Micro-Implant Anchorage in orthodontics. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(10):2293-2298. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.10.10442 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Effect of ionic liquid on dispersion stability and antiwear behavior of CuO nanoparticles added to polyalphaolefin base oil

The experimental study assessed the impact of choline chloride cation-based ionic liquid (IL), on the dispersion stability and wear characteristics of copper (II) oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs) in synthetic base oil (PAO 10). CuO NPs, averaging 50 nm in size, underwent surface modification using varying concentrations of the IL (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1% by weight). The formulations were subjected to sliding wear tests to evaluate their wear behavior. Analysis of the worn surfaces utilized scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results indicated that the combination of 0.75% IL and 1% CuO NPs provided optimal dispersion and exhibited effective surface mending, enhancing wear protection by 21.1% than that of PAO 10. The formulation containing 1% IL and 1% CuO NPs demonstrated the highest load carrying capacity among all tested compositions. In terms of wear behavior, the nanolubricant formulations with 0.75% and 1% IL outperformed the lubricant formulation containing 1 wt% of the commercial antiwear additive Zinc dialkyldithiophosphates (ZDDP).