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2024 MAR 9 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week -- A new study on osteoporosis is now available. According to news reporting [...]

2023 DEC 2 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week -- Researchers detail new data in Nanotechnology - Photocatalytics. According to news reporting [...]

The article discusses that planning of researchers to assemble the Matter-wave Atomic Gradiometer Interferometric Sensor or MAG IS-100 in 2021 and start harnessing lasers to expand submicroscopic strontium atoms into macroscale "atom waves. It mentions scrutinize nature at tiny scales by stretching supercooled atoms into room-length waves dropping down a 100-meter vacuum tube and looking for ripples in the bizarre quantum realm such as potential fingerprints of missing dark matter.

• BTE is an exciting strategy for bone repair that provides sufficient mechanical support for the formation of new bones [10–12]. • Traditional fabrication techniques have been extensively studied, but limited by mimicking the complex microstructure [13]. • Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has gained popularity in the engineering of bone tissue in recent years. 3D printing can create complex and high-precision scaffolds that support cellular adhesion and promote cellular infiltration [14,15]. • Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) data can be imported and print precisely constructs [13,16]. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) has proven to be a promising strategy for bone defect repair. Due to its excellent biological properties, gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels have been used as bioinks for 3D bioprinting in some BTE studies to produce scaffolds for bone regeneration. However, applications for load-bearing defects are limited by poor mechanical properties and a lack of bioactivity. In this study, 3D printing technology was used to create nano-attapulgite (nano-ATP)/GelMA composite hydrogels loaded into mouse bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and mouse umbilical vein endothelial cells (MUVECs). The bioprintability, physicochemical properties, and mechanical properties were all thoroughly evaluated. Our findings showed that nano-ATP groups outperform the control group in terms of printability, indicating that nano-ATP is beneficial for printability. Additionally, after incorporation with nano-ATP, the mechanical strength of the composite hydrogels was significantly improved, resulting in adequate mechanical properties for bone regeneration. The presence of nano-ATP in the scaffolds has also been studied for cell-material interactions. The findings show that cells within the scaffold not only have high viability but also a clear proclivity to promote osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. Besides, the MUVECs-loaded composite hydrogels demonstrated increased angiogenic activity. A cranial defect model was also developed to evaluate the bone repair capability of scaffolds loaded with rat BMSCs. According to histological analysis, cell-laden nano-ATP composite hydrogels can effectively improve bone regeneration and promote angiogenesis. This study demonstrated the potential of nano-ATP for bone tissue engineering, which should also increase the clinical practicality of nano-ATP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new study from Tehran, Iran, discusses research on improving the corrosion behavior of magnesium (Mg) in tissue engineering. The study focuses on creating a nanocomposite coating that enhances the corrosion resistance, bioactivity, antibacterial properties, and cellular viability of Mg-based biomaterials. The researchers synthesized strontium (Sr) and copper (Cu) doped bioactive glass nanoparticles and applied them to the surface of pure Mg using a micro-arc oxidation (MAO) process. The addition of 10 wt% of the nanoparticles in the nanocomposite coating showed the most promising results for bone tissue engineering. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Wisconsin discusses the mechanisms of three-dimensional solid-phase epitaxial crystallization of strontium titanate (STO), a complex metal oxide with a cubic perovskite crystal structure. The study explores the crystallization process of STO and how it can be influenced by the addition of a chemically inert, noncrystallizing, amorphous obstacle. The research findings suggest that the growth behaviors of STO crystals depend on the relative bulk and interfacial free energies of the crystal/mask/amorphous system. This research provides valuable insights into the understanding of solid-phase epitaxy in complex oxides. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Tianjin Medical University explores the cytotoxicity and cell migration effects of a novel strontium silicate-based bioceramic material (CRoot SP) compared to calcium silicate-based (iRoot SP) and epoxide amine resin (AH Plus) sealers on stem cells derived from rat apical papilla (rSCAPs). The study found that CRoot SP exhibited less cytotoxicity than iRoot SP and AH Plus extracts after setting. Additionally, a lower concentration of CRoot SP promoted the cell migration capacity of rSCAPs, suggesting it may contribute to better tissue repair during root canal treatment. This research provides valuable insights into the potential advancements in oral health materials. [Extracted from the article]

A researcher from Fluminense Federal University in Brazil has conducted a systematic review on the effects of adding strontium to calcium phosphate biomaterials for bone therapy. The review found that strontium enhances bone metabolism, osteoblast proliferation, and tissue regeneration. The study analyzed 42 articles and found that strontium-doped calcium phosphate biomaterials were non-cytotoxic and stimulated cell proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic factor production. In vivo studies also showed novel bone formation, angiogenesis, and inhibition of bone resorption. However, the optimal concentration of strontium for desired effects is still unknown, and further research is needed to optimize strontium release kinetics and understand the molecular mechanisms involved. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Fayoum University aimed to investigate the effect of strontium-coated titanium implants on osseointegration in animal models with osteoporotic conditions. The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies and found that strontium-modified implants showed significant improvements in bone-implant contact percentage and bone area compared to uncoated implants. Biomechanical tests also indicated favorable results for strontium-coated implants. Overall, the study suggests that strontium-coated titanium implants enhance osseointegration in animal models with osteoporotic conditions, improving the mechanical and biological properties of the implants. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports that team led by University of Durham archaeologist Tessi Loeffelmann discovered evidence of these travel arrangements while analyzing isotopes of the element strontium in cremated animal bones recovered from Norse burial mounds.

2023 MAY 20 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week -- A new study on pharmaceutics is now available. According to news reporting [...]

2023 APR 1 (NewsRx) -- By a News Reporter-Staff News Editor at Obesity, Fitness & Wellness Week -- Investigators discuss new findings in tissue engineering. According to news reporting from [...]

• A reliable CALPHAD thermodynamic database of al-Si-Mg-Sr system was established. • The quantitative composition-microstructure-properties relation was constructed. • The optimal Sr additional amount in A356 alloys was designed as 0.005 wt.%. • The strengthening/toughening mechanisms of Sr-modified A356 alloys were analyzed. A356 alloys are widely used in industries due to their excellent comprehensive performance. Sr is usually added in A356 alloys to improve their mechanical properties. There have been various experimental reports on the optimal additional amount of Sr in A356 alloys, but their results are inevitably inconsistent. In this paper, a combination of computational thermodynamic and machine learning approaches was employed to determine the optimal Sr content in A356 alloys with the best mechanical properties. First, a self-consistent thermodynamic database of quaternary Al-Si-Mg-Sr system was established by means of the Calculation of PHAse Diagram technique supported by key experiments. Second, the fractions for solidified phase/structures of A356- x Sr alloys predicted by Scheil simulation, together with the measured mechanical properties were set as the input dataset in the machine learning model to train the relation of "composition-microstructure-properties". The optimal addition of Sr in A356 alloy was designed as 0.005 wt.% and validated by key experiments. Furthermore, such a combinatorial approach can help to understand the strengthening/toughening mechanisms of Sr-modified A356 alloys. It is also anticipated that the present approach may provide a feasible means for efficient and accurate design of various casting alloys and understanding the alloy strengthening/toughening mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The additions of Ca and Sr improve the softening resistance of the Cu-Cr alloy. • The Cu-Cr-Ca and Cu-Cr-Sr alloys have smaller Cr precipitates with FCC structure. • The Cu-Cr-Ca and Cu-Cr-Sr alloys recrystallize more difficultly. • Dislocations and precipitates make main contribution to high strengths of alloys. • Ca and Sr atoms tend to segregate at interface between precipitates and matrix. Cu-0.57Cr-0.01Ca and Cu-0.58Cr-0.01Sr (wt.%) alloys were fabricated and processed by thermo-mechanical treatment. Their mechanical and electrical properties and microstructure were investigated in detail and compared with those of a Cu-0.57Cr (wt.%) alloy. The results showed that the softening resistance of the Cu-Cr alloy was significantly improved by the additions of Ca and Sr elements. Compared with the Cu-Cr alloy, the deformation microstructure of the Cu-Cr-Ca and Cu-Cr-Sr alloys was more difficult to recrystallize at elevated temperatures, and the Cr precipitates in the Cu-Cr-Ca and Cu-Cr-Sr alloys were smaller in size and had an FCC structure at any given aging state. The high strengths of the Cu-Cr-Ca and Cu-Cr-Sr alloys were mainly attributed to the dislocation strengthening provided by high-density dislocations and the precipitate strengthening provided by fine Cr precipitates. First-principles calculation showed that the segregations of Ca and Sr atoms at interface between Cr precipitates and copper matrix were favorable in energetics. This segregation effectively hindered the growth of Cr precipitates and significantly enhanced the pinning effect on the motion of dislocations and subgrain boundaries, eventually leading to the improvement in the softening resistance of the Cu-Cr alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kerala in India explores the use of biocomposite materials for bone regeneration. The study focuses on the fabrication of electrospun composite scaffolds using the bark extract of Butea monosperma, nano strontium hydroxyapatite, and polycaprolactone. The researchers evaluated the scaffolds through various techniques and found that the BM-nSrHA-PCL scaffolds exhibited improved mechanical properties, protein adsorption, controlled degradation, and enhanced cell proliferation, making them promising candidates for bone tissue engineering applications. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in the European Polymer Journal. [Extracted from the article]

A recent research study conducted at the University of Hong Kong explores the applications of bioactive strontium compounds in dentistry. Strontium, a divalent cation found in various biomaterials, has been used to replace calcium in calcium-containing biomaterials. It has been found to inhibit bone resorption, increase bone deposition, and improve the antimicrobial and mechanical properties of dental materials. Additionally, strontium has been incorporated into dental materials to enhance their radiopacity and promote enamel remineralization, dentin hypersensitivity alleviation, and dentin regeneration. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the potential uses of strontium in dentistry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Fujian Medical University in China has explored the use of a microneedle patch to promote the healing of diabetic wounds. The patch, which incorporates a strontium polyphenol network, was found to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and stimulate angiogenesis, ultimately improving the wound microenvironment and expediting healing. The research was supported by various funding sources and has been peer-reviewed. Further information on the study can be obtained from the lead researcher at Fujian Medical University. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Shenzhen University in China have made new findings in tissue engineering that could have implications for bone tissue regeneration. The study focused on the incorporation of zinc-strontium phosphate into a gallic acid-gelatin composite hydrogel, which demonstrated multiple biological functions for bone regeneration. The hydrogel showed favorable biocompatibility, osteogenic induction potential, and the ability to promote vascular regeneration in cell experiments. In an in vivo bone defect model, the hydrogel significantly enhanced bone regeneration rates. The study suggests that the hydrogel has environmentally friendly therapeutic effects in osteogenic differentiation and repairing massive bone defects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Hunan, People's Republic of China, focused on improving the mechanical and osteogenic induction properties of bone scaffolds. The researchers encapsulated graphene oxide (GO) with polydopamine (PDA) and loaded strontium (Sr) onto GO through the chelation of PDA. The modified GO was added to the bone scaffold, resulting in significant improvements in tensile and compressive strengths. The presence of Sr in the scaffold also promoted the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, enhancing its osteogenic induction properties. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the development of more effective bone scaffolds. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National University of Science and Technology in Bucharest, Romania, explores the development of gelatin methacryloyl-strontium-doped hydroxyapatite composite hydrogel scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration. The researchers used UV photo-crosslinking and 3D printing techniques to create these scaffolds, which have the ability to deliver strontium, an anti-osteoporotic agent. The study found that the composite gels were suitable for 3D printing and demonstrated good cell viability and biocompatibility. This research offers promising insights into the potential use of these 3D-printed scaffolds for bone repair. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine discusses new findings in radiation research, specifically focusing on the health effects of strontium-90 ingestion. The study, conducted at the University of California-Davis from 1956 to 1989, followed approximately 460 beagles that were exposed to strontium-90 in utero and fed varying doses of strontium-90 feed. The research found that radiation-associated neoplasias were primarily observed in the highest dose groups, while the incidence of neoplasias in control groups decreased as the dose increased. The study also noted a potential increase in congestive heart failure in lower dose groups. Further analysis of the data and samples may reveal additional health endpoints. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Zhumadian Central Hospital in China has developed a new nanocomposite material for treating osteoporotic bone defects. The material, called SrHAp/GO/LZ, is a coating made of strontium, hydroxyapatite, graphene oxide, and linezolid. The coating has antibacterial properties, drug delivery capabilities, and improved mechanical characteristics. The study found that the SrHAp/GO/LZ coating enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, inhibited bacterial growth, and improved cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. This research provides a promising approach for the treatment and prevention of osteoporotic bone defects. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Macau in Macao, People's Republic of China, focused on predicting the solubility of sulfate mineral scale using machine learning. Mineral scale refers to the hard inorganic solids that form and deposit in various industries, such as water treatment and oilfield operations, which can pose serious threats to facility operations. The study collected experimental data on barium sulfate and strontium sulfate to construct a machine learning model for solubility calculations. The model demonstrated its applicability in predicting sulfate scaling threats in different operating environments, highlighting the importance of developing accurate prediction models for industrial systems. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the Federal University Catarina (UFSC) in Florianopolis, Brazil, focused on the synthesis and characterization of a catalyst based on strontium ferrite to reduce the presence of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) in wastewater. The study examined different approaches to pollutant removal, including catalysis in the dark, photocatalysis, and a combination of darkness and light. The optimized conditions for CIP treatment were found to be a pH of 6, a pollutant concentration of 10 ppm, and a reaction time of 6 hours. The synthesized catalyst demonstrated promising characteristics for the aqueous treatment of CIP, with removal efficiencies ranging from 53% to 80%. The catalyst also exhibited excellent stability and reduced toxicity in the treated solution compared to the initial contaminant solution. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Hanoi University of Science and Technology discusses the use of mesoporous carbonate apatite (CO3Ap) and strontium-substituted CO3Ap (Sr-CO3Ap) nanocrystals for bone replacement and drug delivery applications. The researchers synthesized these nanocrystals and found that Sr-CO3Ap exhibited larger pore volume and specific surface area compared to CO3Ap. When tested with osteoblast-like cells, both CO3Ap and Sr-CO3Ap showed good cell attachment, proliferation rates, and increased ALP activity, particularly at higher strontium concentrations. These findings suggest potential for further exploration of mesoporous apatite nanocrystals in biomedical applications. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Dalian University of Technology in China explores the use of tantalum oxide coating doped with calcium and strontium for osteoimmunomodulation. Tantalum is commonly used in medical implants, but its high density and elastic modulus limit its application. The researchers developed a ceramic coating with a trabeculae-like structure on the surface of pure tantalum using microarc oxidation (MAO) and introduced bioactive ions to enhance the coating's properties. The results showed that the modified coating increased coating thickness, surface roughness, hydrophilicity, and promoted osteoblast activity, indicating its potential for osteogenesis. The study was peer-reviewed and published in Surfaces and Interfaces. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan have conducted a study on the characteristics and biological responses of selective laser melted Ti6Al4V modified by micro-arc oxidation (MAO). The study aimed to investigate the physicochemical and biological properties of strontium-containing coatings on the Ti6Al4V substrate. The results showed that the strontium-containing MAO coatings exhibited a uniform 3D porous structure and induced a bone-like apatite layer after immersion in simulating body fluid (SBF). Additionally, the coatings demonstrated significantly higher cell proliferation compared to untreated specimens in in-vitro experiments. The findings suggest that these coatings have potential for biomedical applications. [Extracted from the article]

A recent research paper from the National Institute of Technology investigates the mechanical and tribological properties of bio-waste derived bioactive borosilicate glass incorporating strontium oxide. The study examines the behavior of the glass and its bioactive response when immersed in simulated bodily fluid. The findings show that the addition of strontium oxide enhances bioactivity but adversely affects hardness and compression strength. Despite this trade-off, the glass is suitable for applications prioritizing bioactivity, such as bone filling and dental contexts. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on liposomes, specifically their potential use in treating radioactive cobalt and strontium contamination. The study focuses on the development of a liposomal formulation to deliver chelating agents to the organs affected by these radionuclides. Pre-clinical studies on rats were conducted, comparing the effectiveness of free etidronate and liposomal etidronate with reference treatments. The results suggest that early treatment administration and further research are needed to develop more effective medical countermeasures. The study was conducted by the Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) in Fontenay-aux-Roses, France. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Peking University in Shenzhen, China have developed a new hybrid coating for biodegradable zinc-copper (ZnCu) alloys used in bone implants. The coating, made of teriparatide (PTH)-mediated strontium-zinc phosphate (SrZnP), improves the biofunctionality and corrosion resistance of the ZnCu alloy. The coated ZnCu alloy showed enhanced proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, increased expression of osteogenic-related genes, and activation of osteogenic signaling pathways. This research suggests that the PTH&SrZnP hybrid coating could be a promising option for improving the performance of biodegradable metallic Zn in orthopedic applications. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research conducted by the National Taipei University of Technology on carbon nanotubes. The study focuses on the development of electrochemical sensing platforms to detect antipyretic drugs, specifically acetaminophen, with high sensitivity and selectivity. The researchers fabricated a nanocomposite called strontium molybdate with functionalized carbon nanotubes (SrMoO4@f-CNF) and found that it significantly enhanced the determination of acetaminophen. The SrMoO4@f-CNF sensor demonstrated remarkable electrochemical properties and a wide response range in real-sample analysis. This research provides valuable insights into the potential applications of carbon nanotubes in the field of pharmaceuticals and nanotechnology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Shandong University in Jinan, China, has provided new information about atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries. The study focused on the role of endothelial cells in promoting the formation of foam cells, which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. The researchers found that endothelial cells secrete a protein called Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), which is taken up by smooth muscle cells and promotes lipid uptake and foam cell formation. The study also identified a specific protein, Ubiquitin-specific Protease 53 (USP53), that is involved in this process. The findings suggest that targeted intervention with endothelial DKK1 may have beneficial effects on atherosclerosis. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Federal University examined the biocompatibility of a new root canal filling sealer (RCFS) made from tristrontium aluminate and dodecacalcium hepta-aluminate. The study used Wistar rats and found that the experimental RCFS induced a low inflammatory reaction and promoted rapid tissue repair when in close contact with periapical tissue. The researchers observed a decrease in inflammatory infiltrate over time and an increase in collagen fibers. This research suggests that the new cement based on calcium and strontium aluminates could be a viable option for dental procedures. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Southern Medical University in Guangdong, China, explored the effects of zinc (Zn) and strontium (Sr) ions on the physicochemical properties and cellular responses of wollastonite (CaSiO3, CS), a potential bone biomaterial. The study found that the introduction of Zn and Sr ions into CS slowed its degradation process and inhibited in vitro mineralization activity. Additionally, Zn doping and Sr doping enhanced the cytocompatibility and osteogenesis of CS, respectively, while Zn/Sr co-doping exhibited synergistic effects in enhancing CS's osteogenesis. The introduction of Zn and Sr ions also improved the angiogenic properties of CS and increased its ability to inhibit osteoclast differentiation. The researchers concluded that Zn/Sr co-doped CS shows promise for bone defect repair. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the National University of Science and Technology in Bucharest, Romania, has focused on tissue engineering and the development of controlled local drug release for osteoporosis treatment. The study involved the creation of composite multi-layer three-dimensional scaffolds using nano-hydroxyapatite, strontium-containing nano-hydroxyapatite, and poly-e-caprolactone. The scaffolds demonstrated good cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential, making them suitable for applications requiring faster mineralization, such as osteoporosis treatment. This research provides new insights into tissue engineering and bone restoration. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the University of Jinan in Guangzhou, China discusses the use of strontium-zinc-based phosphate coatings on magnesium alloys for degradation control and cytocompatibility enhancement in medical applications. The rapid degradation of magnesium alloys under physiological conditions has limited their use in clinical applications, but the SZP coatings provide corrosion protection and mitigate degradation. The coatings also show compatibility with cells and have potential for use in biodegradable magnesium-based guided bone regeneration membranes. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Colloids and Surfaces A Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial has been launched to study the effect of combining strontium-90 brachytherapy with hyperthermia in the treatment of keloids. The trial involves randomizing keloid patients into experimental and control groups, with the experimental group receiving strontium-90 brachytherapy followed by hyperthermia, and the control group receiving only strontium-90 brachytherapy. The trial aims to assess the effectiveness of this combined treatment by evaluating scar assessment scores and other outcome measures. The trial is currently recruiting participants in China and is expected to be completed by June 2025. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Southern Denmark examined the variation in bioavailable lead, copper, and strontium concentrations in human skeletons from medieval to early modern Denmark. The study found that these trace elements in bones can provide insights into the diets and living conditions of individuals during that time period. The research also revealed that there were differences in the experiences of people living in towns compared to those in rural areas. However, the study concluded that the diets of urban and rural populations began to converge in the early modern period. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application from Boston University has been released online, detailing a composition for remineralizing tooth enamel. The composition contains strontium ions or stannous ions, along with calcium ions, phosphate ions, and fluoride ions. It may also include magnesium and zinc ions, as well as a buffering agent and other common oral care ingredients. The purpose of this composition is to enhance the restoration of tooth enamel and encourage remineralization. It can be formulated as a solution, gel, paste, or other forms for application to damaged dental surfaces, with the goal of promoting remineralization, desensitization, enamel hardening, and other dental treatments. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Radioisotope Delivery System With Multiple Detectors To Detect Gamma And Beta Emissions" discusses a system for generating and delivering radioactive liquids for diagnostic imaging procedures. The system includes multiple detectors, such as a beta detector and a gamma detector, to measure the activity level of radioisotopes in the liquid. These detectors help ensure that the appropriate levels of radioisotopes are present for specific imaging procedures. The system also includes an infusion system with a radioisotope generator, beta detector, and gamma detector, as well as a waste container and cabinet structure to house the components. [Extracted from the article]

Oceans cover 70% of Earth's surface, setting it apart from the other terrestrial planets in the solar system, but the mechanisms driving oceanic chemical evolution through time remain an important unresolved problem. Imbalance in the strontium cycle, introduced, for example, by increases in continental weathering associated with mountain building, has been inferred from shifts in marine carbonate 87Sr/86Sr ratios. There are, however, uncertainties about the spatial and temporal patterns of crustal evolution in Earth's past, particularly for the period leading up to the Cambrian explosion of life. Here we show that U-Pb age and trace element data from a global compilation of detrital zircons are consistent with marine carbonate 87Sr/86Sr ratios, suggesting changes in radiogenic continental input into Earth's oceans over time. Increases in riverine Sr input were related to the break-up and dispersal of continents, with increased weathering and erosion of a higher proportion of radiogenic rocks and high-elevation continental crust. Tectonic processes exert a strong influence on the chemical evolution of the planet's oceans over geologic time scales and may have been a key driver for concomitant increases in atmosphere-ocean oxygenation and global climate cooling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tessi Loeffelmann at Durham University in the UK and her team analysed strontium in bone fragments already identified as being bom a horse and a dog. THE idea that Vikings shipped horses and dogs from Scandinavia to England has been confirmed with physical evidence, in the form of animal bones found at the Heath Wood cemetery in what is now Derbyshire in the UK. [Extracted from the article]

• Demonstrating a new approach to enhanced photoluminescence via boron doping in red-emitting Sr 2 Si 5 N 8 :Eu2+ phosphors. • Thermal degradation stability can be enhanced at the same time. • Combining experimental and first principles calculations, the mechanism of B-doping can be understood. Surface passivation is a common method to improve the resistance of thermal degradation of nitride phosphors. However, such a surface passivation generally needs extra processes and decreases the photoluminescence property of the phosphors. In this work, both the thermal stability and photoluminescence property of a red phosphor Sr 2 Si 5 N 8 :Eu are improved through the addition of BN. The influence of B on the crystal structure and the valence state of active ions was analyzed by experimental characterization. First-principles calculations were applied to analyze the formation energy of N vacancies, which influence the resistance of thermal degradation. Finally, combining with experimental characterization and calculations, the enhancing mechanism of thermal stability and photoluminescence by B was studied. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western Electric's 300B remained in production for 50 years until 1988, when Western Electric ceased tube production. According to Charles Whitener, Western Electric uses a double oxide cathode coating consisting of strontium and barium carbonates, "with proprietary elements added." PHOTO (COLOR): THIS ISSUE: Herb auditions a 300B amplifier from Feliks Audio and the current, US-made Western Electric 300B tube. In 1992, entrepreneur Charles Whitener approached AT&T to inquire about acquiring the intellectual property and a license to manufacture and sell vacuum tubes and audio equipment under the Western Electric name. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Georgia have conducted a study on the biological characterization of bioactive glasses containing boron and strontium. The study aimed to investigate the bioactivity, biocompatibility, and antibacterial properties of these glasses. The results showed that the glasses with specific compositions exhibited high bioactivity, promoting the release of ions and inducing apatite precipitation. Additionally, the incorporation of strontium and boron improved cell viability and demonstrated significant antibacterial effectiveness. The researchers concluded that these glasses have potential applications in bone tissue engineering. [Extracted from the article]