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Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) are advantageous for reducing or even eliminating the dependency on platinum resources, as the alkaline environment allows the use of non‐precious metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode. However, the intrinsic activity of hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) catalysts in alkaline environments is 2 to 4 orders of magnitude lower than in acidic environments, which becomes the major challenge for AEMFCs. This review examines the current developments in the intrinsic activity of alkaline HOR catalysts and systematically summarizes the hydrogen activation mechanism with a focus on potential influencing factors and enhancement strategies. Furthermore, it offers insights into the prospects for developing more efficient alkaline HOR catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractAn alkaliphilic sulfur-oxidizing bacterial consortium enrichment in synthetic media and supplemented treated wastewater was evaluated by measuring for thiosulfate biological oxidation and detailed analysis of the structure and function of the resultant bacterial communities. Aerobic batch assays revealed that cultures enriched with treated wastewater exhibited thiosulfate oxidation rates 17% faster than cultures in synthetic medium, attributed to the influence of inorganic and organic compounds present in the wastewater. Furthermore, cultures with treated wastewater demonstrated a 55% higher sulfate production rate than cultures with synthetic medium, probably due to specific intermediates generated during the oxidation process. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed greater microbial diversity in cultures with treated wastewater compared to cultures in synthetic medium, with Thioalkalivibrio prevailing as the dominant genus in both. Other genera, such as Planktosalinus, Aliidiomarina, Roseinatronobacter, and Azoarcus, were also identified; however, their relative abundances were associated with the available carbon sources in each medium. Functional analysis revealed a predominance of genes associated with thiosulfate and sulfide oxidation, emphasizing the significant role of the SOX system within cultures. The findings suggest the potential of treated wastewater to enrich an alkaliphilic sulfur-oxidizing bacterial consortia for biotechnological treatment of reduced sulfur compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinization leads to a reduction in arable land area, which seriously endangers food security. Developing saline-alkali land has become a key measure to address the contradiction between population growth and limited arable land. Rice is the most important global food crop, feeding half of the world's population and making it a suitable choice for planting on saline-alkali lands. The traditional salt–alkali improvement method has several drawbacks. Currently, non-thermal plasma (NTP) technology is being increasingly applied in agriculture. However, there are few reports on the cultivation of salt/alkali-tolerant rice. Under alkaline stress, argon NTP treatment significantly increased the germination rate of Longdao 5 (LD5) rice seeds. In addition, at 15 kV and 120 s, NTP treatment significantly increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and SOD. NTP treatment induced changes in genes related to salt-alkali stress in rice seedlings, such as chitinase and xylanase inhibitor proteins, which increased the tolerance of the seeds to salt-alkali stress. This experiment has expanded the application scope of NTP in agriculture, providing a more cost-effective, less harmful, and faster method for developing salt-alkali-tolerant rice and laying a theoretical foundation for cultivating NTP-enhanced salt-alkali-tolerant rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is challenging to develop highly active and durable electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline water electrolysis. Herein, an electrocatalyst is synthesized with highly dispersed cerium in a nickel matrix, showing an overpotential of 169 mV for HER at a current density of 500 mA cm−2, about 137 mV lower than that observed without cerium. Kinetic analysis results suggest that doping cerium facilitates the evolution of intermediate H for HER, thus accelerating the process of water dissociation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations also indicate that the introduction of highly dispersed cerium can lower the energy barrier of the kinetically sluggish Volmer step by altering the orbital occupation near the Fermi level, promoting the process of water dissociation. Furthermore, the electrolyzer constructed with the electrocatalyst exhibits a cell voltage as low as 1.67 V at 800 mA cm−2 for 2000 h in 7 м KOH at 80 °C. The robust property makes it an excellent candidate electrocatalyst for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, four different metal-free nitrogen containing Covalent Triazine Frameworks (CTFs) based on their applied monomers (DCP, DCBP, m DCB and p DCB) are synthesized via a classical ionothermal synthesis route (ZnCl 2 , 400/600 °C). These materials are fully characterized and their electrochemical activities for ORR are tested and compared to each other including Carbon Super P and Pt black as standards in 0.1 M KOH. While DCP provides similar catalytic activity to Carbon Super P showing mostly a 2eˉ process (n=2.95) with high H 2 O 2 formation of 52.6 %, the other three CTFs (DCBP, m DCB and p DCB) possess higher ORR activities, surprisingly even much higher limiting current densities than Pt black, proving that O 2 is mainly reduced via direct 4eˉ pathway since n values are in the range of 3.52 to 3.62 and the detected H 2 O 2 values are in the range of 19–23.9 %. Among the studied CTFs, m DCB reaches a limiting current density of −5.61 mA cm-2 (1.21 mA cm-2 larger than that for Pt black, −4.40 mA cm-2) with 0.11 V larger onset potential compared to Pt black. The significant electrochemical performances of the CTF materials in ORR via a 4eˉ process are correlated to the high specific surface areas (up to 2500 m2 g-1), large pore volumes (up to 2.05 cm3 g-1) and the largest total N-graphitic/quaternary contents as well as micro-mesoporous structure properties. [Display omitted] • Four N-containing Covalent Triazine Frameworks (CTF) were synthesized via a classical ionothermal route. • Three CTFs provide higher ORR activities, with much larger limiting current densities than Pt black. • O 2 is mostly reduced through a direct 4eˉ process rather than 2eˉ process at three CTFs. • The N-graphitic/quaternary sites are the active sites for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By offering promising solutions to two critical issues – the integration of renewable energies into energy systems and the decarbonization of existing hydrogen applications – green hydrogen production through water electrolysis is set to play a crucial role in addressing the major challenges of the energy transition. However, the successful integration of renewable energy sources relies on gaining accurate insights into the impacts that intermittent electrical supply conditions induce on electrolyzers. Despite the rising importance of addressing intermittency issues to accelerate the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources, the state-of-the-art lacks research providing an in-depth understanding of these concerns. This paper endeavors to offer a comprehensive review of existing research, focusing on proton exchange membrane (PEM) and alkaline electrolysis technologies operating under intermittent operation. Despite growing interest over the last ten years, the review underscores the scarcity of industrial-scale databases for quantifying these impacts. [Display omitted] • Dynamic features, e.g. event frequency and amplitude, affect efficiency and durability of alkaline and PEM electrolyzers. • Intermittent operation promotes electrolyzer decay, but literature lacks consensus and studies on alkaline technology. • Industrial-scale assessments of intermittency impacts are significantly lacking for both alkaline and PEM technologies. • Developing standardized methods is crucial to understand how intermittency affects electrolyzer efficiency and durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The potential applications of this work include the reconstruction of artificial bacterial consortia that are able to resist and/or reduce chromium and are robust over time for a bioremediation application at the Quimica Central site (Mexico). Industrial residues with high concentrations of hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)], characterized by an alkaline pH (between 9 and 13) and high salinity (around 100 psu), were used as a source for extremophilic chromium-resistant and -reducing microorganisms. An investigation of biodiversity through MiSeq showed the presence of 20 bacterial classes, with Bacilli (47%), Negativicutes (15%), Bacteriodia (8%), Gammaproteobacteria (7%) and Clostridia (5%) being the most abundant. The bioprospection allowed the cultivation of 87 heterotrophic bacterial colonies and 17 bacterial isolates at the end of the isolation, and screening procedures were obtained. The isolates were related to Cellulosimicrobium aquatile, C. funkei, Acinetobacter radioresistens, Staphylococcus equorum, S. epidermis, Brachybacterium paraconglometratum, Glutamicibacter creatinolyticus, Pseudomonas songnenensis, Microbacterium algeriense and Pantoea eucalypti, most of them being resistant to Cr(VI). Resistances of up to 400 m g. L − 1 of chromate were obtained for four related strains (QReMLB55A, QRePRA55, QReMLB33A and QReMLB44C). The C. aquatile strain QReMLB55A and the P. songnenensis strain QReMLB33A were exposed to K 2 C r 2 O 7 (200 m g. L − 1 ) under optimal conditions, diminishing 94% and 24% of the Cr(VI) in 6 days, respectively. These strains exhibited a high potential for chromium remediation biotechnologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results revealed the significant effect of NaCl, KCl, CaCl2, MgCl2, CaSO4, MgSO4, and Na2SO4 and pH values of 3.5–11 on the interfacial tension (IFT) reduction using three types of neutral, acidic, and basic crude oils, especially for acidic crude oil (crude oil II) as the pH was changed from 3.5 to 11 (due to saponification process). The findings showed the highest impact of pH on the IFT of crude oil II with a reducing trend, especially for the pH 11 when no salts exist. The results revealed that the salts except MgCl2 and CaCl2 led to a similar IFT variation trend for the case of distilled water/crude oil II. For the MgCl2 and CaCl2 solutions, a shifting point for IFT values was inevitable. Besides, the dissolution of 1-dodecyl-3-methyl imidazolium chloride ([C12mim][Cl]) with a concentration of 100–1000 ppm eliminates the effect of pH on IFT which leads to a reducing trend for all the examined crude oils with minimum IFT of 0.08 mN/m. Finally, the [C12mim][Cl] adsorption (under pH values) for crude oils using only Na2SO4 was measured and the minimum adsorption of 0.41 mg surfactant/g Rock under the light of saponification process was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mars missions and Martian meteorites revealed how complex the Martian crust is. The occurrence of both alkaline and sub-alkaline igneous rocks of Noachian age (>3.7 Ga) in Gale crater indicates diverse magmatic processes, with sub-alkaline rocks likely formed through the partial melting of hydrous mafic rocks, as commonly observed on Earth. The orbital discovery of excavated evolved igneous rocks scattered in Noachian terrains raise questions about the petrology of the ancient Martian crust, long thought to be basaltic. A possibly evolved crust beneath a mafic cover is supported by geophysical and seismic measurements from the Insight lander that indicate the bulk crust has a lower density than expected if it were homogeneously basaltic. If localized magmatic processes could form evolved terrains, the detection of abundant intermediate to felsic Noachian crustal exposures through remote sensing suggest regional- to global-scale processes that produced evolved crustal component(s) that are now buried below mafic materials. Due to the lack of centimetric to millimetric textural imaging and compositional measurements, the petrology of such crust is ambiguous. Future orbiter, rover, and aerial missions should focus on Noachian exposed regions exhibiting evolved crustal characteristics to unfold the petrology of the Martian crust and its formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, pink colour development was investigated by changing systemically alkaline and alkaline earth ratios of the developed glaze. Group-1 (Na 2 O/CaO, Na 2 O/MgO, Na 2 O/BaO) and Group-2 (CaO/MgO, CaO/BaO) represent compositional variations. Group-1 has alkaline oxides with changing ratios of 0.2 mol Na 2 O and 0.6 mol CaO and 0.2 mol Na 2 O and 0.2 mol BaO, respectively. These ratios vary as 0.2 mol CaO and 0.1 mol BaO in Group-2. According to the results, the pink colour intensity was improved in the compositions with cassiterite (SnO 2) and malayaite CaSn(SiO 5) phases. In addition, bar-shaped BaO–CaO–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 crystals were observed in structures with high barium oxide content. It could be concluded that the pink colour development regarding the a* (redness) value may also be related to the presence of BaO–CaO–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective life cycle assessment (LCA) compares the environmental impacts of alkaline electrolyser (AE) and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyser systems for green hydrogen production with a special focus on the stack components. The study evaluates both baseline and near-future advanced designs, considering cradle-to-gate life cycle from material production to operation. The electricity source followed by the stacks are identified as major contributors to environmental impacts. No clear winner emerges between AE and PEM in relation to environmental impacts. The advanced designs show a reduced impact in most categories compared to baseline designs which can mainly be attributed to the increased current density. Advanced green hydrogen production technologies outperform grey and blue hydrogen production technologies in all impact categories, except for minerals and metals resource use due to rare earth metals in the stacks. Next to increasing current density, decreasing minimal load requirements. improving sustainable mining practices (including waste treatment) and low carbon intensity steel production routes can enhance the environmental performance of electrolyser systems, aiding the transition to sustainable hydrogen production. • LCA for baseline (2020) and advanced (2030) designs GW scale AE and PEM electrolyser systems was conducted. • Alternate materials required to drive down costs and improve performance were incorporated. • On an environmental basis, neither AE nor PEM (baseline and advanced) outperformed the other. • Impact reduction in advanced design can mostly be attributed to higher current densities. • Green hydrogen outperforms grey and blue hydrogen, except in Resource use, minerals and metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As for metal/zeolite supported phenol hydrodeoxygenation catalysts, it is important to improve the dispersion of metallic sites and build synergistic relationship between metallic and acid sites. The current research proposes a surface modification strategy by introducing CTAB in the NaOH etching of Beta. CTAB interacts with crystal defects to inhibit excessive crystal destruction. Aluminum atoms are protected from being removed and acid sites are reserved. Generated silicon hydroxyl groups anchor Pt0 particles. Pt0 particles are spatial resisted on the internal surface of catalysts to activate C–O bonds of phenol. Preserved acid sites provide reactive sites for dehydration reaction of cyclohexanol on the external surface of Pt/Beta-H. The high phenol conversion (i.e., 92.26 %) and cyclohexane yield (i.e., 7.18 %) were obtained at 80 °C due to the functional synergistic effect between acid and Pt0 sites. Proposed surface modification strategy proposes references for the structure design and development of efficient phenolics hydrodeoxygenation catalysts. [Display omitted] • CTAB regulates the NaOH etching sites of Beta molecular sieves. • Generated silicon hydroxyl groups anchor fine Pt particles. • Synergistic effect of Pt-acid sites of Pt/Beta catalysts is fabricated due to a hollow spatial distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct formate fuel cells (DFFCs) are recently attracting more attention, primarily because of the use of the carbon-neutral fuel, the low-cost catalyst and membrane. For improving the passive DFFC cell performance, passive, anion-exchange membrane (AEM) DFFCs were developed in this study using Ni foam as anode diffusion layer (DL) on which the catalyst slurry was coated with three different techniques, including direct brushing (DB), dripping (DR) and dip coating (DC). The catalysts on cathode and anode of the AEM DFFCs were Pt and Pd, respectively, with identical loading of 2 mg/cm2. Nafion was used as anode binder with loading of 1.87 mg/cm2. Both V – I curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of those passive AEM DFFCs were measured and investigated with the mixture of potassium formate (HCOOK) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) as anolyte at room temperature. Besides, the micrographs of the catalyst-coated Ni foams were also presented to inspect the catalyst distribution on the DL. An additional cell using traditional carbon cloth as DL was also tested for comparison. The polarization curves and EIS showed that the mass transport to the catalyst layer was significantly enhanced for those cells using Ni foam as DL, compared to the carbon cloth-based passive, AEM DFFC. Besides, the performance of the Ni foam-based DFFC with anode catalyst coated by DC technique was the best among all, while the cell possessing carbon cloth-based anode yielded the lowest maximum power density, 22.5 mW/cm2. The maximum power density of the passive AEM DFFC in this study reached 37.7 mW/cm2 when the cell having Ni foam anode made by DC method was fed with the mixture of 3 M HCOOK in 3 M KOH as liquid fuel. The results suggested that not only the mass transport loss but the activation loss can be lowered with appropriate catalyst distribution over the skeleton of the Ni foam. • Three coating techniques were used to achieve catalyst-coated Ni foam as DFFCs anode. • Performance of the passive DFFCs can be greatly improved with Ni foam as DL. • Cell having Ni foam DL coated with DC technique yielded highest cell performance. • Carbon cloth-based passive DFFC encountered significant mass transport loss. • EIS curves showed that mass transport and activity of the Ni foam-based cell were enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, physically crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol and tetraethyl orthosilicate (PVA-TEOS/PT) composite membrane doped by NaOH was used synthesized to enhance the performance of an alkaline direct sodium borohydride fuel cell (DSBFC) for the first time. The PVA-TEOS (PT) solution was subjected to varying number of freeze-thaw cycle and doped with varying concentration of NaOH for further characterization and performance evaluation in DSBFC. The physical crosslinking increased the amorphous nature of the membrane electrolyte and hence, the ionic conductivity improved significantly. The amount of TEOS in PVA matrix was varied from 5 wt % to 15 wt %. The highest ionic conductivity of 9.67 ± 0.04 × 10−3 S cm−1 was obtained for the membrane freeze-thawed of cycle 7 having 10 wt % of TEOS and dipped in 4 M NaOH solution (PT 10 wt% -7Cy-(4 M)). The physically crosslinked NaOH doped PVA-TEOS composites were tested in a single DSBFC using the Pt (40 wt %)/C at anode and cathode both. The fuel NaBH 4 mixed with supporting electrolyte NaOH was used at anode and pure oxygen was used as oxidant at cathode. The membrane electrolyte (PT 10 wt% -7Cy-(4 M)) with highest conductivity of 9.67 ± 0.04 × 10−3 S cm−1 exhibited highest peak power/maximum power density of 85.19 mW/cm2 at a current density of 184 mA/cm2 at the temperature of 60 °C. The recorded highest power density (85.19 mW/cm2) was capable to run array of LED light (1.2 W) for at least 12 h without any fall in performance. [Display omitted] • Physical crosslinking by freeze-thaw enhanced interaction between PVA and TEOS. • Number of freeze-thaw cycle affects the ionic conductivity of PT membrane. • Wt % of TEOS in the PVA control the ionic conductivity of PT membrane. • PT 10 wt% -7Cy-(4 M) membrane electrolyte exhibited highest ionic conductivity. • PT 10 wt% -7Cy-(4 M) produced highest power density of 84.19 mW/cm2 in DSBFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various purification methods have been developed to improve local salt quality, with the NaCl content above 94%. Bentonite is one of the materials used as binder impurities in purification. The purpose of the study was to synthesize a modified bentonite using an alkaline solution, which includes sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) with various concentrations (1 M, 1.5 M, 2 M, and 2.5 M) and determined levels of Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ metals using AAS. The bentonite and activating agent 1 M (1:10) were stirred for three hours. Then, the bentonite was dried for two hours in an oven at 110 °C. The activated bentonite was dried for four hours at 170 °C. The activated bentonite was characterized using XRD, FTIR, and SEM. The basal spacing d001 on the diffractogram bentonite was significantly unaffected by alkaline activation. FTIR analysis represents the stretching vibration of -OH shifts towards a lower wavenumber. Alkaline activation reduced impurities from bentonite and increased the pore surface's porosity. NaCl levels in people's salt increased after being activated using alkaline. The increase in Na+ levels was followed by a decrease in Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents. KOH-activated bentonite had a higher NaCl level than NaOHactivated bentonite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium tantalate (KTaO 3) is a promising material for dielectric applications at low temperature. However, dense and single-phase ceramics cannot be obtained by conventional sintering because of the evaporation of potassium that leads to secondary phases. Here, we demonstrate that spark plasma sintering is a suitable method to obtain dense and single-phase KTaO 3 ceramics, by optimizing three parameters: initial composition, temperature, and pressure. A 2 mol% K-excess in the precursors leads to a large grain growth and dense single-phase ceramics. Without K-excess, a small amount of secondary phase (K 6 Ta 10.8 O 30) is observed at the surface but can be removed by polishing. At ∼10 K, the dielectric permittivity is 4 times higher in the ceramic from the 2 mol% K-excess powder, because of the larger grain size. The thermal conductivity decreases with decreasing grain size and stays above the thermal conductivity of KNbO 3 ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing the favorable morphology with large surface area and abundant oxygen vacancies for BiVO 4 can enhance its electron diffusion lengths and improve its photocatalytic ability toward photoelectrochemical water oxidation. The ex-situ alkaline etching process is reported to be facile for enhancing the light absorption and oxygen vacancy of BiVO 4 , but the systematic study of alkaline etching on the photocatalytic ability of BiVO 4 is rare. In this study, alkaline-etched BiVO 4 is firstly fabricated using a hydrothermal process with different durations as the photocatalyst of water oxidation. The BiVO 4 etched by alkaline for longer durations presents rougher surface, more oxygen vacancies and higher light absorption. The larger carrier densities and the smaller charge-transfer resistances are also achieved for the alkaline etched BiVO 4. The largest photocurrent density of 2.38 mA/cm2 is achieved at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode in the Na 2 SO 4 electrolyte for BiVO 4 etched by alkaline for 45 min, while the pristine BiVO 4 electrode only shows a photocurrent density of 0.59 mA/cm2. The photocurrent retention of 81% is also obtained for the alkaline etched BiVO 4 electrode after continuous illumination for 6000 s. The results imply the feasibility of applying the alkaline etching process on refining the photoelectrochemical catalytic ability of BiVO 4. [Display omitted] • Alkaline-etched BiVO 4 is fabricated by hydrothermal process in various durations. • Etching BiVO 4 with longer time shows rougher surface and more oxygen vacancies. • Photocurrent density of 2.38 mA/cm2 is got at 1.23 V RHE for optimal etched BiVO 4. • It is due to large carrier densities and smaller charge-transfer resistances. • Photocurrent retention of 81% is got after continuous illumination for 6000 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive tree pruning is an abundant and renewable lignocellulosic residue, which is generally burned in the fields, causing economic costs and environmental problems. This lignocellulosic residue can be considered a suitable raw material for the production of a wide range of byproducts in a biorefinery context due to its high content of potentially fermentable carbohydrates. To take advantage of its sugar content, pretreatment is necessary to enhance the accessibility of the enzymes to the cellulosic fraction. The aim of this work is to obtain sugars contained in olive tree pruning as a substrate for the production of bioethanol by fermentation. Specifically, the production of fermentable sugars by sequential pretreatment with sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide is studied. A two-factor rotatable composite central design temperature and catalyst concentration (H2SO4 and NaOH) has been generated, and response surface methodology has been used to discuss and optimize the responses. This work shows that under optimal pretreatment conditions (130 °C, 1.90% w/v H2SO4 and 130 °C, 1.49% w/v NaOH) of 1 kg of olive tree pruning, a solution rich in sugars (102 g of glucose and 61 g of xylose) and a solid residue generating 99 g of glucose by enzymatic hydrolysis is obtained. Moreover, applying the combined severity to the acid pretreatment, it has been determined that 20% of the olive tree pruning is fast solubilization, and it was also found that the apparent activation energy of the acid hydrolysis reaction is 85.07 kJ/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were prepared from delignified kenaf bast fiber by using alkaline pulping, based on soda anthraquinone, hydrogen peroxide bleaching, and acid hydrolysis treatment with H2SO4. The size and morphology of the fibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the isolated fiber from unbleached and bleached pulp had a diameter between 9 to 30 µm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy exhibited that the content of lignin decreased in the pulping process, and the lignin was almost completely removed during hydrogen peroxide bleaching. Moreover, fibers were characterized for crystallinity using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The fiber crystallinity gradually increased at each stage of the process (raw kenaf bast, unbleached pulp, bleached pulp, and acid hydrolysis). The fiber was characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), which showed that the isolated pulp nanofibers had diameters of approximately 30 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use complementary bottom-up and top-down approaches to assess the current cost of AE and PEM stacks and how the costs are expected to come down by 2030. The total AE and PEM stack cost reduce from a range of 242–388 €/kW and 384–1071 €/kW in 2020 to 52–79 €/kW and 63–234 €/kW in 2030 respectively. The main drivers of these cost reductions are an increased current density and a reduction and/or replacement of expensive materials with cheaper alternatives. To a lesser extent, manufacturing and labor costs reduction is expected due to mass manufacturing at a GW scale. The total cost decrease is less prominent for AE than PEM due to AE's maturity. The uncertainty range for PEM stacks is due to the low TRL associated with the advanced design PEM stack. • We incorporate bottom-up with top-down costing approaches for stacks. • Current stack cost range from 242 to 388 €/kW (AE) and 384–1071 €/kW (PEM). • Stack costs may reduce to 52–79 €/kW (AE) and 63–234 €/kW (PEM) by 2030. • Cost reductions are driven by higher current density (AE&PEM) and lower catalyst loading (PEM). • Learning Investments of >73 bn € are needed to reduce system cost to 564 €/kW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work reports a facile synthesis of high thermally stable nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) doped with different atomic concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 3.0, and 6.0%) of Gd3+ and Nd3+ ions by a template-free and one-step solvothermal process, using titanium(IV) butoxide as a titanium precursor and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a solvent. The structure and morphology of the Gd3+, Nd3+, and 0.5%Gd3+-0.5%Nd3+/doped TiO2 NPs have been characterized by using various analytical techniques. The Gd3+/ and Nd3+/TiO2 molar ratios were found to have a pronounced impact on the crystalline structure, size, and morphology of TiO2 NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies revealed the proper substitution of Ti4+ by Gd3+ and Nd3+ ions in the TiO2 host lattice. The as-prepared Gdx/TiO2, Ndx/TiO2, and Gd1.0/Ndx/TiO2 bimetallic NPs, x = 0.5, 1.0, 3.0, and 6%, have been investigated as electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in 1.0 M KOH solution using a variety of electrochemical techniques. At any doping percentage, the Gd1.0/Ndx/TiO2 bimetallic NPs showed higher HER catalytic performance than their corresponding counterparts, i.e., Gdx/TiO2 and Ndx/TiO2. Upon increasing the Nd content from 0.5 to 6.0%, the HER catalytic performance of the Gd1.0/Ndx/TiO2 bimetallic NPs was generally enhanced. Among the studied materials, the bimetallic Gd1.0/Nd6.0/TiO2 NPs emerged as the most promising catalyst with an onset potential of −22 mV vs. RHE, a Tafel slope of 109 mV dec−1, and an exchange current density of 0.72 mA cm−2. Such HER electrochemical kinetic parameters are close to those recorded by the commercial Pt/C (onset potential: −15 mV, Tafel slope: 106 mV dec−1, and exchange current density: 0.80 mA cm−2), and also comparable with those measured by the most active electrocatalysts reported in the literature. The synergistic interaction of Gd and Nd is thought to be the major cause of the bimetallic catalyst's activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have estimated the geochemical equilibration depth and temperature of the widespread Neogene alkaline basalts in the Cordillera of Alaska, Northwest Canada, and in Mexico using geobarometry on bulk compositions that have been minimally differentiated in upward transit. The method has uncertainties of about ±10 km and <70 °C. The regional averages of geochemical equilibration depth for 12 sites in Alaska vary from 50 ± 10 to 84 ± 2 km, somewhat broader than those from the Cordillera in western Canada, western USA, and Mexico. There are no associations of depth with terranes or geological provinces. The final equilibration depth of lavas with the surrounding mantle is concluded to be where partial melt percolating from greater depths' ponds at the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary (LAB) until it becomes gravitationally unstable and moves upward in conduits. The top of the low velocity zone from seismic receiver functions, taken to be the LAB in regions of Alaska where Neogene volcanism occurs, varies from 60 to 85 km, covering the range of geochemical equilibration depths of the alkaline lavas. A mean lava equilibration depth of 65 ± 10 km occurs in 24 of 36 alkaline volcanic centers from Alaska to Mexico, and several other global locations, suggesting the LAB may be controlled to a first order by the change in H2O storage capacity and viscosity across the garnet–spinel peridotite phase change at this depth. The scatter and variation in equilibration depths and temperatures are a factor of 2 greater than the recognized uncertainties, and are not yet explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vast and geochemically diverse volcanic rocks from the western Alborz Magmatic Assemblage (AMA) represent the back-arc of the central Iran Neotethyan arc (Urumieh–Dokhtar Magmatic Assemblage; UDMA). Volcanic rocks of the west AMA record valuable information on the timing, source region(s) and geodynamic setting of magmatism. Over 30 days of field study and sampling, investigation of 170 thin sections, 30 whole-rock geochemical analyses, 13 whole-rock Sr–Nd isotopic ratios and U–Pb age dating of zircon separates from 7 samples furnished the present study data. Eocene (38.5 Ma) OIB-type volcanic rocks from South Kaleybar indicate an anorogenic (extensional) setting. This lithospheric-scale extensional event induced influx of asthenospheric mantle into the sub-arc wedge, of which the partial melts differentiated to produce OIB-type melts. The OIB-type melts incorporated some inherited zircons in their ascent through the Cadomian crust. A continued extensional regime led to asthenospheric upwelling and produced mafic melts that produced 27.5-Ma-old subalkaline series volcanics. The LILE-depleted signature of the South Kaleybar subalkaline volcanic rocks implies that their mantle source region experienced previous partial melting event(s), probably during OIB-type magmatism in the Eocene. Alkaline volcanism (24.4 Ma) and concurrent high-silica adakitic volcanism (24.3 Ma–23.4 Ma) followed subalkaline magmatism. The alkaline rock signature in the study area range from 'Nb–Ta depleted' to 'plume-type'. This is consistent with lithosphere–asthenosphere interaction in an arc-related setting. Simultaneous partial melts of delaminated lower crustal rocks reacted with the asthenosphere and produced adakitic melts. Asthenospheric, lithospheric and crustal contribution to the magmatism in South Kaleybar express the back-arc signature of magmatism in Eocene to Late Oligocene times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural organic matters (NOM) have been proved to form the hydraulically irreversible membrane fouling, which limit the application of the membrane in water treatment processes. To solve the membrane fouling caused by NOM, a novel one-step chemical cleaning method for the ceramic membrane derived from the base-activated persulfate oxidation process was developed in this study. When the SiC ceramic membranes was used to filtrate practical river water, the permeate flux dropped 65% as ΔTMP reached 30 kPa. After 2 h immersion of the fouled membrane in the cleaning solution (2 mM PMS and 8 mM NaOH), the flux recovery rate nearly reached 100%. Direct backwash of the membrane by the above cleaning solution further reduced the cleaning time to 25 mins, while achieving similar cleaning effect. Then the cleaned membranes were immersed in NaClO solution to release all the residual foulants, but the fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectra (EEM) and total organic carbon (TOC) of the solution were found insignificant, which demonstrated the base-activated persulfate strategy had effectively removed the irreversible membrane fouling. Free radical quenching experiments were carried out and·O 2 - was identified as the dominant ROS responsible for the removal of the membrane foulants. The permeate flux and filtration efficiency of the SiC membrane were stable after 5 consecutive fouling-cleaning cycles, and the membrane structure was not damaged. In summary, the base-activated persulfate strategy is an efficient and cleaner method for SiC membrane cleaning, which is potential to be applied in practical membrane water treatment process. [Display omitted] • A novel one-step base-activated persulfate system was applied to the SiC membrane cleaning. • The cleaning process achieved full flux recovery rate in the optimized condition. • The·O 2 - was identified as the dominant ROS responsible for the removal of the membrane foulants. • This membrane cleaning strategy was long-term efficacy and no damage of the membrane structure was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gram-stain-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped and motile bacterium, designated Alg18-2.2T, was isolated from a bottom sediment of the highly alkaline-saline lake in Buryatia, Russia. The isolate is facultatively alkaliphilic, growing at pH 7.0–12.0 (optimum at 9.0–9.5), and salt-tolerant up to 7% NaCl (w/v; optimum, 1%, w/v). Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that strain Alg18-2.2T formed a distinct monophyletic lineage within the family Lysobacteraceae. Strain Alg18-2.2T had highest sequence similarity to Lysobacter concretionis Ko07T (95.0%), Lysobacter maris KMU-14T (95.0%), Coralloluteibacterium stylophorae Sty a-1T (94.9%) and Lysobacter psychrotolerans ZS60T (94.8%). The ANI values between Alg18-2.2T and representatives of genera within order Lysobacterales were 66.4–76.5%, which is below of the statistical threshold for the delineation of the species. The AAI values between the strain and representatives of genera within order Lysobacterales were 52.2–66.4%, which is consistent with the data intra-order AAI values for Lysobacterales. The quinone system consisted of ubiquinone 8 (Q-8). Diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified phospholipids were presented as major lipids in the polar lipid profile. The major cellular fatty acids were 9-Methyl C16:0 (23.9%), iso-C15:0 (22.4%), iso-C16:0 (16.3%) and iso-C17:0 (14.6%). The genome has a G+C content of 68.7 mol % and a total assembly size of 3,025,752 bases. Based on polyphasic results including phylogenomic data, we propose a new genus and species Alkalisalibacterium limincola gen. nov., sp. nov. with the type strain Alg18-2.2T (=CPCC 101300Т = DSM 110880T = VKM B-3394T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, leaching characteristics are presented, and a cost-effective process for extracting uranium, copper, and cadmium from Talet Seleim's Gibbsite is developed. H2SO4 was chosen as the preferable leaching agent based on the agitation experiment's findings. The leaching efficiencies of U, Cu, and Cd attained 95%, 90%, and 89%, respectively, under the investigated ideal circumstances. Kinetic study of leaching process proved diffusion controlling mechanisms with activation energies: 29.59, 29.30, and 34.84 kJ/mol, respectively. U was recovered using Amberlite IRA 400, while Cu and Cd were precipitated from Talet Seleim's gibbsite's sulphate leachate. Finally, the tentative treatment procedure's preliminary flowsheet was then given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile post-gelation soaking strategy for producing low-alkaline konjac glucomannan (KGM) gels was investigated in this work. The dealkalization kinetics of soaking alkali-induced gels in citric acid (CA) solutions was determined. A comparison of sensory, textural, and water holding properties was made between untreated and post-soaking gels. Post-gelation exposure to acid took less time for lowering the gel pH at higher CA concentrations, eliminated the unattractive flavor of KGM gels and endowed them a higher hardness and breaking force. Comparatively, the whiteness of post-soaking gels was increased by 3.8%–13.1% with volume being decreased by 4.9%–8.6%, while the discrepancies were less apparent after a long-term storage. Low-alkaline gels treated by 4 g/L CA shared similar textural features with conventional KGM gels. Despite the difference in water distribution and water holding capacity of KGM gels, the syneresis of resultant low-alkaline KGM gels was not significantly affected. • Post-gelation soaking strategy is useful for preparing low-alkaline konjac glucomannan gels. • The dealkalization kinetics of konjac glucomannan gels was determined. • Higher acid concentrations lead to a faster dealkalization and unevenly distributed water. • Post-soaking konjac glucomannan gels are superior in sensory smell and taste. • Most features of conventional konjac glucomannan gels were retained in low-alkaline konjac glucomannan gels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of highly efficient and low-cost bifunctional electrocatalyst is essential for overall water splitting, especially for industrial application under alkaline conditions. Herein, we propose a controllable structural engineering strategy of constructing heterogeneous layered electrocatalyst with wetting surface for hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction. Heterogeneous layered NiFe LDH (layered double hydroxide)/CoFeP/NF (Ni foam) with superhydrophilic surfaces is successfully fabricated by successive electrodeposition, phosphorization and solvothermal method. The NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF for hydrogen evolution achieves a low overpotential of 198 mV at 50 mA cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH. An overpotential of 269 mV is required at 50 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution. Meanwhile, the practical utilization of NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF as bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting yields 1.73 V at 50 mA cm−2 in the two-electrode cell. Moreover, NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF can retain over 50 h without an obvious degradation at 10 mA cm−2. The satisfactory operating stability and high activity of NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF in alkaline solution can be attributed to the heterogeneous layered structure and excellent hydrophilic surface. The study provides a strategy to engineering heterogeneous layered structures with wetting surface for excellent electrocatalytic activities toward overall water splitting. Based on the unique heterogeneous layered structure and superhydrophilic surface, NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF exhibits excellent catalytic performance and good stability for both hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction in 1.0 M KOH alkaline solution. [Display omitted] • NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF requires a cell voltage of 1.73 V at high 50 mA cm−2. • NiFe LDH/CoFeP/NF can retain over 50 h without an obvious decay at 10 mA cm−2. • The heterogeneous layered structure reduces the charge transfer resistance. • The superhydrophilic properties enable electrolyte-electrode contact and reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water absorption, chemical resistance, and biological properties are contributing factors to the overall performance of bio-composites, especially for outdoor applications. The functional properties of bio-composites are dependent on the interfacial bonding mechanism, which is controlled by the surface modification and processing parameters of natural fibers. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential of enhancing the mukwa/polylactide (mukwa/PLA) interface through an economic and ecological surface modification of recycled mukwa wood fibers via alkali-laccase modification. The fabricated biocomposites intended for making durable farm poles for semi-arid conditions of Southern Africa were characterized via water absorption, chemical resistance, thickness swelling, hardness, and thermal properties. Less thickness swelling and water absorption were found on the alkali-laccase/PLA composites. The lessdense (1.09 g/cm³ ) alkali-laccase treated composites showed better chemical resistance. Much swelling of the composites was observed on the 40% nitric acid (HNO3), while 60% NaOH shrunk the composites and PLA by <3.5%. The laccase/ PLA bio-composite showed a maximum thermal stability of 733 °C. The activation energy (Ea) optimized on the laccase/PLA composite with the highest of 104 kJ mol−1. Maximum crystallinity of 45.8% was achieved on the untreated/PLA composites. The alkali-laccase modification maximized the hardness of composites with 35.45 HV on alkali-laccase/PLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fibres are less expensive than other types of fibre, the greatest replacement for synthetic fibre composites today is a natural fibre reinforced biodegradable composite. For uses in domestic goods, natural fibres like sisal, kenaf, plam, banana, jute, and coir have been employed as reinforcement in polymer composites. At the moment, research into composite materials is focused on employing natural fibres rather than synthetic ones. When used as reinforcing fibres in matrices, natural fibres made from yearly renewable resources have a positive impact on the environment in terms of final disposal and raw material use. Because of their low density, superior mechanical performance, universal availability, and disposability, natural fibres provide an alternative to technical reinforcing fibres. Chemically altering the fibre surface can strengthen the bond between the fibre and matrix. The fibre surface can be cleaned, chemically modified, and given a rougher finish through chemical treatment. Scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate surface analyses on fibre for before and after treatment. The banana fibre's stress-strain curve is identified. As a function of fibre diameter, test length, and testing speed, properties like initial modulus (YM), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and percentage elongation are assessed. The failure is caused by the pull-out of microfibrils along with the tearing of cell walls, according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations of the broken surfaces of these fibres; the likelihood for fibre pull-out appears to diminish with increasing testing speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyester nanofiltration membranes typically outperform traditional polyamide alternatives in fouling resistance, water flux, and chlorine tolerance. However, their alkali resistance remains poorly understood. This study investigates the stability of polyester membranes, prepared via interfacial polymerization of eight hydroxyl monomers with TMC, in alkaline conditions (pH 12.4). We systematically recorded changes in water flux and solute rejection and employed SEM, AFM, zeta-potential, contact angle analysis, and XPS to examine physicochemical structural changes during hydrolysis. The findings reveal that most membranes are susceptible to alkaline hydrolysis, evidenced by increased water flux and decreased rejection rates. Specifically, membranes derived from pyrogallol-based hydroxyl monomers exhibited the greatest instability, whereas those incorporating sodium alginate demonstrated remarkable stability. After immersion in water, the water flux of the TA membrane increased from 8.4 to 21.2 Lm−2h−1bar−1 and the rejection rate decreased from 36.6 % to 12.1 %. the water flux of PG membrane was from 22.0 to 54.2 Lm−2h−1bar−1, while the rejection rate decreased from 60.2 % to 22.7 %. DFT calculations corroborate these observations, linking ester bond energies with membrane stability. This study not only advances our understanding of polyester nanofiltration membrane properties but also highlights critical vulnerabilities in alkali environments, guiding future improvements. • The stability of polyester membranes with different hydroxyl monomers in aqueous alkaline environments was investigated. • Polyester membranes hydrolyze in alkaline; hydroxyl groups' number and position impact stability. • Polyester experienced breakage of the ester bond as well as a severe detachment of the polyester chain segment. • DFT calculations proved that the binding energy is consistent with the stability of nanofiltration membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-cost, flexible broadband photodetectors fabricated from two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides have garnered attention because of their excellent absorption coefficient and photoconductivity. Likewise, vertical heterojunctions fabricated from two two-dimensional (2D) transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) also have drawn major curiosity lately owing to their superior optical performance. This work reports a p-p type II vertical Van der Waal's heterojunction structure by depositing thin film of NiS over SnS on a flexible paper substrate. Morphological and structural characterization confirms presence of a rhombohedral β-NiS crystal structure along with traces of Ni(OH) 2 on orthorhombic SnS nanoparticles. The device fabrication method made use of the inexpensive, clean room free SILAR (Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction) technique. A purposeful modification of narrow bandgap property of NiS is done by depositing it in an alkaline environment. The fabricated device records optical responsivity of 0.92 mA/W under UV illumination, 5.32 mA/W under Visible illumination, and 0.8 mA/W under NIR illumination. A maximum EQE of 1.3 % is observed along with superior response times of 0.114 s (UV),0.103 s (Visible) and 1.34 s (NIR). The acquired photo response is due to superior absorption property of NiS in UV region and SnS in the visible and NIR region. The difference in fermi level between two materials causes efficient separation of the charge carriers that results in junctional electric field upon light illumination. The device underwent flexibility testing and shown exceptional resistance to bending force making it suitable for numerous applications like wearable healthcare monitoring, security purposes and flexible image sensors. [Display omitted] • This work introduces a broadband photodetector using type II vertical Van der Waal's heterojunction fabricated from 2D-photoresponsive Transition metal chalcogenides. • The device is fabricated on cellulose paper using Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction(SILAR)technique having remarkable responsivities in UV, visible, NIR region along with superior response times of 0.114 s,0.103 s and 1.34 s and high photostability up to 1050 bending cycles. • A modification of narrow bandgap property of NiS is done by depositing it in an alkaline environment which makes it suitable for broadband photodetection applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Venda Nova and Várzea Alegre Plutons in southeastern Brazil are post-collisional complexes formed during the gravitational collapse of the Araçuaí-Ribeira orogenic system during amalgamation of SW Gondwana. This study focuses on the petrological, geochemical, geochronological and zircon Lu-Hf isotopic signatures of both plutons to constrain and complete their ages and to characterize mantle vs. crustal source components. The Venda Nova Pluton is divided into an inner, mildly alkaline, and an outer, calc-alkaline domain. One diorite, three quartz syenites and two granites from the inner domain give LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb ages of 492–477 ± 8 Ma. The outer domain is dominated by charnockites and norites, six measured charnockites give two zircon ages of 620–606 ± 11 Ma and 500–476 ± 14 Ma, corresponding to zircon core and rim, respectively; the only norite yielding zircons gives a nominal age of 567 ± 13 Ma, which cannot be simply interpreted as emplacement age. The various intrusives from the Várzea Alegre Pluton (gabbronorites, charnockites, monzogranites, syenogranites) straddle the alkaline to calc-alkaline affinity and yield all together a uniform age of 500 ± 8 Ma. This confirms that all lithologies from the Venda Nova inner domain and Várzea Alegre Pluton belong to the post-collisional G5 suite of this region. The Venda Nova outer domain charnockites, fit age-wise into the pre-collisional arc-related magmatism (G1 suite). The zircon rim ages obtained on these charnockites represent minor fluid-assisted partial remelting and resetting of the U-Pb system during the emplacement of the inner domain. Individual norite zircons show ages ranging from the charnockite intrusion age to the metamorphic thermal peak in this region. The Lu-Hf isotopes measured on the dated zircon crystals, yield mantle values for the charnockites from the Venda Nova outer domain (εHf: 3.4 ± 1.2 to 6.8 ± 1.5), indicating an isotopically depleted mantle source, consistent with arc magmatism. Instead, the Venda Nova inner domain and the Várzea Alegre Pluton have relatively radiogenic values (εHf: −12.3 ± 1.5 to −8.8 ± 2.9 and − 11.1 ± 1.1 to −7.4 ± 1.3, respectively) and show no significant variation between all lithologies, indicating a source dominated by a previously crustally enriched mantle with only minor crustal assimilation occurring during magma emplacement. Interestingly, the charnockite rim of Venda Nova is 100 Ma older than the inner (mildly alkaline) post-orogenic domain and belongs to the pre-orogenic calc-alkaline arc suite, while the charnockite ring at Várzea Alegre is part of the intrusion, both in time and geochemistry, and shows no increased crustal signature with respect to the rest of the pluton. • Age and magmatic source constrain of Venda Nova and Várzea Alegre Pluton. • Venda Nova inner domain + entire Várzea Alegre are post-orogenic (G5, ∼500 Ma). • G5-suite melts derive from a previously crustal enriched lithospheric mantle. • Venda Nova calc-alkaline charnockite rim (G1, ∼610 Ma) derived from depleted mantle. • Constant εHf with differentiation suggests minor crustal assimilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy has received great attention because of its advantages such as large energy density and not producing carbon dioxide, and it is currently considered to be one of the most valuable green energy sources. Therefore, the development of efficiently hydrogen production is of great importance. Hydrogen production from water electrolysis has large application prospects due to its cleanliness and no pollution. However, how to prepare an efficient, stable and low-cost electrocatalyst for this process is still challenging. Here, we develop a reduced graphene oxide-supported ruthenium (Ru) nanoparticle electrocatalyst synthesized by a simple method. The ruthenium precursors are encapsulated and isolated with N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) (Ru3+-DMF), which effectively inhibits the further agglomeration growth of ruthenium. After Ru3+- DMF being loaded on graphene oxide, Ru is supported on reduced graphene oxide (Ru/rGO) by the liquid phase chemical reduction method and the remaining organic solvent could be removed by calcination to form a well-dispersed Ru-based electrocatalyst. Ru/rGO shows excellent electrocatalytic activity and long-term stability for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In a solution of 1.0 M KOH, the overpotential of 3.0 wt%Ru/rGO for the HER at 100 mA cm−2 is only 111.7 mV, and the Tafel slope is 31.5 mV dec−1. It exhibits better HER performance compared to commercial Pt/C and other Ru/rGO catalysts with different Ru loadings. The work could give a new strategy for the synthesis of efficient electrocatalysts. [Display omitted] • Reduced graphene oxide-supported well-dispersed Ru catalysts are prepared. • 3.0 wt%Ru/rGO exhibits a low overpotential of 111.7 mV and Tafel slope-31.5 mV·dec−1 at 100 mA cm−2 for the HER. • 3.0 wt%Ru/rGO shows much better catalytic property than Ru/rGO with other loadings and Pt/C. • 3.0 wt%Ru/rGO is very stable for the HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of female goats are needed for the dairy goat industry; therefore, the development of a method to ensure the birth of more females than males in a single pregnancy will lead to economic benefits. Increasing the number of X-sperm would be an effective way to increase the proportion of female offspring. In this study, goat semen was incubated at pH 7.4 in alkaline diluent combined with resiquimod (R848) and the number of X-sperm was enriched by the swim-up method. The percentage of X-sperm was determined using the double TaqMan qPCR method. Sperm total motility, progressive motility, average path velocity, straight-line velocity, and curvilinear velocity were measured using a computer-aided sperm analysis system, and the functional parameters of the sperm plasma membrane, the acrosome, mitochondrial activity, ATP content, and reactive oxygen species levels were also measured. Lastly, the ratio of female embryos was determined by in vitro fertilization, and the number of female kids and the pregnancy rate of does was assessed by artificial insemination. The results showed that dilution of semen in an alkaline buffer containing R848 could enrich the number of X-sperm to 85.57% ± 3.27%. The progressive motility, average path velocity, straight-line velocity, curvilinear velocity, mitochondrial activity, and ATP level of the collected X-sperm-enriched semen were significantly reduced, but its total motility, plasma membrane, and acrosome were not affected. The in vitro fertilization experiments showed that the rate of female embryo production using X-sperm-rich seminal fluid could reach 83.25% (174/209), which was significantly higher than the proportion of female embryos in the control group, 47.71% ± 1.80% (104/218). As determined by artificial insemination, the number of female kids in the test group increased by 62.79% (243/387), which was significantly higher than that in the control group (47.65%, 193/405). There was no significant difference in pregnancy rate between the test group and the control group (71.71% vs. 78.48%). Therefore, this study demonstrated that use of a pH 7.4 diluent containing R848 is a simple and effective method of X-sperm enrichment for dairy goat production. Its application would allow does to produce more female offspring for herd expansion and milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of liquid fuels in fuel cells is advantageous due to the easier and safer handling, transportation, and storage. Among the different options, hydrazine is of interest since the formation of highly poisoning carbonaceous species is avoided, in addition to its high energy density. In the search for more active direct hydrazine fuel cells (DHFC), this study analyzes the influence of Cu as an auxiliary metal on Pd. Three different PdxCu/C (x = 3, 1, and 0.33) catalysts were prepared by chemical reduction with NaBH4. The materials were physiochemically characterized by X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Electrochemical analysis in a three-electrode glass cell and a single-cell DHFC was also carried out to study the impact on the electroactivity. Cu exerts a beneficial effect by reducing the adsorption energies of the adsorbed species and donating oxidized species for the completion of the hydrazine electro-oxidation, optimally balanced in the Pd1Cu/C (maximum power density of 180 mW cm−2). As a counterpoint, Cu slightly promotes the non-faradaic decomposition of hydrazine, seen by a larger H2 signal in mass spectroscopy in the anode exhaust at high current densities, which results in a slight loss in faradaic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dichanthelium caerulescens is documented for the first time in Louisiana, as the result of floristic fieldwork performed in 2019 through 2021. Louisiana records extend the range of D. caerulescens westward by approximately 265 mi (426.5 km) into the Western Gulf Coastal Plain ecoregion. These findings also identify a new habitat, coastal prairie, utilized by D. caerulescens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large number of female goats are needed for the dairy goat industry; therefore, the development of a method to ensure the birth of more females than males in a single pregnancy will lead to economic benefits. Increasing the number of X-sperm would be an effective way to increase the proportion of female offspring. In this study, goat semen was incubated at pH 7.4 in alkaline diluent combined with resiquimod (R848) and the number of X-sperm was enriched by the swim-up method. The percentage of X-sperm was determined using the double TaqMan qPCR method. Sperm total motility, progressive motility, average path velocity, straight-line velocity, and curvilinear velocity were measured using a computer-aided sperm analysis system, and the functional parameters of the sperm plasma membrane, the acrosome, mitochondrial activity, ATP content, and reactive oxygen species levels were also measured. Lastly, the ratio of female embryos was determined by in vitro fertilization, and the number of female kids and the pregnancy rate of does was assessed by artificial insemination. The results showed that dilution of semen in an alkaline buffer containing R848 could enrich the number of X-sperm to 85.57% ± 3.27%. The progressive motility, average path velocity, straight-line velocity, curvilinear velocity, mitochondrial activity, and ATP level of the collected X-sperm-enriched semen were significantly reduced, but its total motility, plasma membrane, and acrosome were not affected. The in vitro fertilization experiments showed that the rate of female embryo production using X-sperm-rich seminal fluid could reach 83.25% (174/209), which was significantly higher than the proportion of female embryos in the control group, 47.71% ± 1.80% (104/218). As determined by artificial insemination, the number of female kids in the test group increased by 62.79% (243/387), which was significantly higher than that in the control group (47.65%, 193/405). There was no significant difference in pregnancy rate between the test group and the control group (71.71% vs. 78.48%). Therefore, this study demonstrated that use of a pH 7.4 diluent containing R848 is a simple and effective method of X-sperm enrichment for dairy goat production. Its application would allow does to produce more female offspring for herd expansion and milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefiting from Ni can provide excellent hydrogen adsorption free energy and tungsten has ideal hydroxide adsorption free energy, the designed Janus Ni/W bimetallic materials can provide remarkable HER/HOR activity. [Display omitted] The development of hydrogen energy is limited by the high cost of platinum group metals (PGM). There is an urgent need to design efficient PGM-free electrocatalysts in the hydrogen electrode. Herein, Janus Ni/W bimetallic materials are proposed as an effective PGM-free bifunctional hydrogen electrocatalyst. By constructing the bimetallic materials, a synergistic effect is realized to enhance the reaction kinetics and improve the catalytic performance. In general, Ni can provide excellent H ad sites, and W serves as OH ad sites. Therefore, the synergistic effect of Ni and W can improve the kinetics of hydrogen evolution reaction and the hydroxide oxidation reaction. Ni/W@NF can obtain the hydrogen evolution reaction current density of 10 mA cm−2 with an overpotential of only 62.6 mV, and the exchange current density of hydroxide oxidation reaction can reach 1.83 mA cm−2. This work provides a new idea for the design of high-efficiency and low-cost PGM-free bifunctional hydrogen electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the effect surface production has on polymer properties is important in the design of advanced materials. The aim of this study was to determine how the moulding process affected the rate of hydrolysis and the topography, chemistry and physicochemistry of PVAc moulded, hydrolysed surfaces. Three different mould surface materials were used to produce compression moulded PVAc sheets which were treated with aqueous NaOH at a range of concentrations. The Textile moulded sheet demonstrated the best hydrolysis results. The topography of the moulded sheets was transferred to the surfaces and the Kapton release sheet was visually smooth at lower magnification and demonstrated some pitting at higher magnification. The Teflon surface had features transferred from the coated stainless steel at lower magnifications and linear features at higher magnifications and the textile surface had a wrinkled appearance and irregularly spaced peaks. The release sheet used to mould the PVAc surfaces, affected the physicochemical parameters. The Kapton moulded surface demonstrated the most polar attributes and the Teflon surface the most dispersive. It was clear that the selection of the mould material had an influence on surface properties and hydrolysis of moulded PVAc. Such information is important for engineering design in industrial processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External pH is crucial in preserving sperm viability and ensuring fertilization during in vitro conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the maximum pH value that can be tolerated by frozen-thawed Pasundan bull sperms and the effect on sperm quality. Around 250x106 sperms/mL of frozen-thawed Pasundan bull sperms were divided into ten equal aliquots, and each was diluted in the medium within a particular pH value. HCL or NaOH was added to the buffer media to create ten different solutions with varying pH values of 3, 4, 5, 6 as acidic, 7.2-7.4 as a control, and 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 as alkaline. Furthermore, the samples were incubated for 5 minutes at room temperature within a particular pH medium before being immediately supplemented with a buffered medium to achieve a pH of 7.2-7.4. After 10 minutes of incubation at room temperature, all parameters were assessed. The results showed that sperm motility, viability, normal morphology, and acrosome intactness in sperms incubated in the acidic or alkaline media were significantly lower compared to control (p<0.05, respectively). Interestingly, the sperm still had a good tolerance to pHs 6 and 8. This tolerance was evidenced by all the parameters of sperms that were not sharply decreased compared to the control group. The significant loss of motility occurred at pHs 3 and 12. It could be concluded that frozen-thawed Pasundan bull sperms are still tolerable in pHs 4-11, but the sperm quality degrades as the acidity or alkaline level increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textile-reinforced concrete (TRC) is a special type of concrete gaining popularity nowadays in the field of civil engineering due to its technical advantages. Owing to the absence of coarse aggregate and high paste content, the properties of TRC are different from conventional concrete. Further, for the same reason, the characteristics against aggressive environmental conditions are different for TRC. As TRC can be used in many applications subjected to aggressive environments, in the present work, the mechanical and durability characteristics of TRC against acidic and alkaline environments are studied. The effect of the thickness of TRC specimens is also studied by using specimens of varied thicknesses such as 10, 15, and 20 mm. Compressive and flexural behavior tests for mechanical properties and water permeability as well as weight loss tests for durability characteristics are conducted. The results obtained showed that there is no significant weight loss due to the exposure to acidic or alkaline environments. However, there is a change in the compressive and flexural behavior of the TRC specimens subjected to various pH. This shows that the material can perform differently for strength and durability properties, as durability is mainly concerned with the density/permeability of the concrete whereas the strength depends on many other factors. Further, it is concluded that the increased thickness reduces the impact of aggressive solutions on TRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacillus sp. ASX42 isolated from soil samples of Lake Van shores, Turkey, and the strain producing cellulose-free xylanase enzyme with an optimum pH 9.0, at 60ºC. The molecular weight of the enzyme was estimated as 66 kDa on SDS PAGE analysis. Thermal stability of enzyme was detected average 68.7% at 4-60ºC and 60% at 65-95ºC while pH stability was observed about 90% between pH 3.5-13.0 for 15 min. As HgCl2 presented a strong inhibitor activity, Cobalt (132%) and Manganese (130%) showed a stimulatory effect on xylanase activity. The remaining activity was found to be 77%, 89%, and 92% in the presence of EDTA, 1,10-Phenanthroline monohydrate and β-mercaptoethanol, respectively. In this study, some known purification materials were compared for effectiveness. According to the results, cellulase-free xylanase ASX42 has shown a stimulatory effect on germination of Anagyris foedita and Ceratonia siliqua seeds. It has also produced a whitening effect on wastepaper pulp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a key process in number of electrochemical energy conversion technologies that demands the design of efficient electrocatalysts. In this work, catalytically active gamma-nickel oxyhydroxide (γ -NiOOH) was obtained from a two-dimensional (2D) nickel(II) dithiooxamide Ni(dto) chelate polymer via in situ electrochemical transformation in an acetylene black matrix. The transformation was carried out on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode in 1 M KOH solution, in which the nickel(II) centers of the chelate polymer were transformed into nano-sized γ -NiOOH crystallites dispersed in the carbon matrix. The resultant nanostructured catalyst exhibits OER overpotential of 390 mV (at 12 mA/cm2) and a Tafel slope of 328 mV/dec in 1 M KOH solution. The OER overpotential of the catalyst is lower than that of IrO 2 /C electrode, with the same material loading. The oxygen evolution is initiated by adsorption of hydroxide ions at the Ni metal sites of the layered γ -NiOOH, with a subsequent release of oxygen molecules. This study unfolds the potential of in situ electrochemical transformation of 3d transition metal 2D chelate polymers to fabricate active electrocatalysts. [Display omitted] • 2D layered chelate polymer of nickel dithiooxamide, Ni(dto), acts as templating precursor for fabrication of active electrocatalyst. • Electrochemical transformation of Ni(dto) in 1 M KOH results in formation of γ -NiOOH nanoparticles. • γ -NiOOH/C electrodes show an enhanced activity towards OER in alkaline solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct methanol and formic acid fuel cells attracted extensive attention with high specific energy and low operating temperature. The efficient electrocatalyst was one of the important factors to limit their commercial applications. Here, the nitrides-modified Pd/C catalysts (Pd–NbN/C, Pd–Mo 2 N/C, Pd-VN/C and Pd-BN/C) were prepared using sodium citrate as a reducing agent in ethylene glycol solution. The mass activities followed the trend of Pd–NbN/C > Pd–Mo 2 N/C > Pd-VN/C > Pd-BN/C > Pd/C, where Pd–NbN/C exhibited the highest mass activity (4052.19 A g Pd −1) for MOR, 19.2 times that of the commercial Pd/C (210.53 A g Pd −1). Electrochemical measurements (LSV, Tafel, EIS, CA) indicated that the addition of nitrides increased the charge-transfer kinetics, reaction rate and CO tolerance of catalysts for MOR in alkaline media. The rate-determining step was CO ads oxidation process. Combined the structural analysis (HRTEM, XRD, XPS, ICP) with electrochemical results, the enhanced catalytic performance was ascribed to that higher ECSAs and the charge transfer between Pd and nitrides, leading to the negative shift of the d-band center towards the Fermi level. The linear correlations were found for the d-band center VS the mass activities and the onset potential of CO oxidation VS the d-band center, indicating that the activity and anti-CO poisoning ability could be enhanced by controlling the d-band structure of catalysts for MOR. Furthermore, the higher mass activity for FAOR in acidic media suggested that nitrides-modified Pd/C may be the promising bi-functional materials. [Display omitted] • Pd–NbN/C exhibited the highest mass activity (4052.19 A g Pd −1) for MOR. • The addition of nitrides increased the charge-transfer kinetics, reaction rate and CO tolerance of catalysts. • The rate-determining step was CO ads oxidation process. • The enhanced catalytic performance was due to the higher ECSAs and synergistic effect between Pd and nitrides. • The nitrides-modified Pd/C catalysts may be the promising bi-functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of sexual assault cases and increasingly sensitive DNA analysis methods have resulted in sexual assault kit backlogs in the United States. Although traditional DNA extraction and purification utilizing detergents, proteinase K, and DTT have been the primary technique for lysing sperm cell fractions from these samples, it is labor‐intensive and inefficient regarding time and sperm DNA recovery – hindering the ability of forensic analysts to keep pace with evidence submissions. Thus, this study examined seven alternative sperm cell lysis techniques to develop a method that could efficiently lyse sperm and consistently generate high‐quality profiles while also reducing time, labor, and cost requirements. Microscopic examination of lysates indicated only Casework Direct and alkaline techniques could lyse all spermatozoa within samples, while quantification results demonstrated all methods performed comparably to the control method of forensicGEM™ Sperm (p > 0.06). Amplification with 0.25 ng DNA revealed that unpurified lysates from Casework Direct, alkaline, and NP‐40 techniques produced DNA profiles with acceptable mean STR peak heights and interlocus balance, both of which were similar to or better than the control. Overall, this study demonstrated the ability of Casework Direct, alkaline, and NP‐40 methods to efficiently lyse spermatozoa and provide high‐quality STR profiles despite the absence of a purification step. Ultimately, based on the data reported herein, alkaline lysis is the recommended alternative sperm lysis approach given its ability to generate high‐quality profiles, save time, and decrease the cost per reaction when compared to traditional sperm cell lysis methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bagasse is the left over obtained from sugar production plants. After improving the quality with NaOH and white fungus, Pleurotus sajor-caju, it can be used as roughage source for ruminant animal. However, use at different levels in TMR diet is expected to produce different responses. Therefore, the objective this study is to find the suitable level of fermented sugarcane bagasse (FSB) as an ingredient in TMR with 14% dietary protein content on dairy cow performance, blood metabolite and ruminal fermentation. In CRD experiment, nine crossbred Holstein lactating multiparous cows (avg. b. wt. 405±45 kg) were randomly allotted to 3 dietary treatments comprising of 3 levels of FSB in TMR diet viz., 10, 20 and 30%. The result showed that inclusion of FSB at different levels in TMR diet had no effect on DMI and milk production. However, FSB at 20% in TMR had improved the milk composition. Increasing the level of FSB in TMR diet was effect to increase blood glucose, while blood urea nitrogen has the highest in 1.5 hours after feeding FSB at 10% in TMR diet. Level of FSB in TMR diet had no effect on ruminal fermentation as evidenced in every hour of determination, except 4.5 hours after feeding while FSB at 10% in TMR diet had highest TVFA concentration in the rumen. Therefore, the study suggests that FSB at the level of 20-30% in TMR diet for optimum performance, blood metabolite and ruminal fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the treatment of an acidic chemical corneal ulceration in a puppy secondary to nail polish spilling on and adhering to the cornea. Case Summary: A 12‐week‐old neutered male Australian Shepherd mix dog was presented to Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital's (CSU‐VTH) Emergency and Urgent Care service acutely after exposure to nail polish spilling on the left eye (OS). Initial ophthalmic examination revealed nail polish adhered to approximately 80% of the cornea with moderate diffuse corneal edema and chemosis, and green nail polish adhered to the skin and fur of the periocular area. Copious flushing with eye wash was performed, but no areas of reduced nail polish adherence were noted. The patient was treated with 1 drop of topical ofloxacin 0.3% ophthalmic solution OS and hospitalized overnight, receiving hyaluronic acid ophthalmic lubrication every hour OS. The treatment plan was carried out for 6 h until time of transfer. In the morning, CSU‐VTH's Ophthalmology service removed a nonadhered nail polish plaque in 1 piece using Bishop–Harmon tissue forceps. Following removal, a superficial ulcer secondary to an acidic chemical burn covering 100% of the corneal surface was noted, as well as moderate diffuse corneal edema. Following topical treatment for 8 days, the superficial ulcer healed completely, with no significant long‐term consequences. Unique Information Provided: This is the first report of management of an acidic chemical corneal ulceration secondary to nail polish spill in a puppy. Early assessment and vigilance in treatment was essential for a good prognosis and outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Combining C 3 N 4 with Cu-doped ordered mesoporous alumina (Cu-OMA/CN). • Formation of single atomic copper in Cu-OMA@CN-500. • High styrene conversion (87.2 %) and a striking selectivity to styrene oxide (90.0 %). • Cu-OMA@CN-500 with the richest electron density around copper sites. • High activity also related to high surface area and high content of graphite n. The present study assessed the catalytic performance in epoxidation of styrene using tert ‑butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant over single-atomic copper-doped Ordered mesoporous alumina (Cu-OMA) composited with g -C 3 N 4 (CN). The thermal treatment at three temperatures (300, 500, 700 °C) provided a facile mean to modify the texture and electronic structure of the Cu-OMA@CN composite. The X-Ray absorption spectroscopy proved the single-atomic Cu-O-Al and Cu-O-C in Cu-OMA@CN-500 catalyst. Catalytic reaction parameters, namely temperature (60–80 °C), catalyst amount (10–70 mg), substrate/oxidant ratio (1:1–1:3), and solvents (acetone, ethanol, acetonitrile, N, N-dimethylacetamide) were optimized to obtain high conversion of styrene and selectivity to styrene epoxide. Under the optimized reaction conditions (75 °C, 30 mg of catalyst, 1:2 of styrene/TBHP and acetonitrile as solvent), the conversion decreased in the order of Cu-OMA@CN-500 > Cu-OMA@CN-300 > Cu-OMA@CN-700. This sequence was related to the formation of electron-rich single-atom copper sites, high surface area, medium alkaline environment and high content of graphic nitrogen species in Cu-OMA@CN-500. This structure differed from the blocky structure of C 3 N 4 in Cu-OMA@CN-300 and the destroyed tri-s-triazine ring in Cu-OMA@CN-700. The most active Cu-OMA@CN-500 catalyst displayed a high styrene conversion (87.2 %) and striking selectivity to styrene oxide (90.0 %). Its catalytic activity was retained after five recyclability tests. The possible catalytic mechanism for epoxidation of styrene over this catalyst was tentatively proposed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]