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Anode material is a crucial component of Li-ion battery influencing electrochemical performance and overall efficiency of energy storage and conversion systems. In particular, its surface properties are of decisive importance. In this work, using density functional theory in conjunction with machine-learning interatomic potentials, we calculated diffusion rates of lithium adatom and its adsorption energy on lithium, copper, and lithium–indium alloy surfaces. We compared calculated properties of chosen materials to estimate their propensity to favor dendrite growth. Our results show that copper is a less favorable environment for dendrite formation than lithium itself, while the lithium-indium alloy has the worst surface properties, which can most likely lead to the formation of dendrites. The performed set of calculations can be used as an initial assessment of the suitability of the material for the role of anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methane (CH4) oxidation is an important reaction to reduce the greenhouse effect caused by incomplete combustion of CH4. Here, we explored the mechanism of CH4 oxidation catalyzed by CeO2 and Ni-doped CeO2, focusing on the redox properties of these catalyst surfaces, using density functional theory (DFT). We found that the barriers for CH4* activation and H2O* formation are correlated with the surface redox capacity, which is enhanced by Ni doping. Furthermore, the complete reaction mechanism is explored by DFT calculations and microkinetic simulations on bare and Ni-doped CeO2 surfaces. Our calculations suggest that the doping of Ni leads to a much higher overall reactivity, due to a balance between the CH4* activation and H2O* formation steps. These results provide insights into the CH4 oxidation mechanism and the intrinsic relationship between redox properties and the activity of CeO2 surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed an accurate and efficient machine learning potential with DFT accuracy and applied it to the silicon dry/wet oxidation process to investigate the underlying physics of thermal oxidation of silicon (001) surfaces. The accuracy of the potential was verified by comparing the melting point and structural properties of silicon, the structural properties of a-SiO2, and the adsorption properties on the silicon surface with experiment and DFT data. In subsequent thermal oxidation simulations, we successfully reproduced the accelerated growth phenomenon of the wet oxidation in the experiment, discussed the oxide growth process in detail, and elucidated that the accelerated growth is due to hydrogen in the system that both enhances the adsorption of oxygen on the silicon surface and promotes the migration of oxygen atoms. Finally, we annealed the oxidized structure, counted the defect information in the structure before and after annealing, and analyzed the defect evolution behavior during the annealing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scanning Kelvin probe microscopy (SKPM) is a powerful technique for investigating the electrostatic properties of material surfaces, enabling the imaging of variations in work function, topology, surface charge density, or combinations thereof. Regardless of the underlying signal source, SKPM results in a voltage image, which is spatially distorted due to the finite size of the probe, long-range electrostatic interactions, mechanical and electrical noise, and the finite response time of the electronics. In order to recover the underlying signal, it is necessary to deconvolve the measurement with an appropriate point spread function (PSF) that accounts the aforementioned distortions, but determining this PSF is difficult. Here, we describe how such PSFs can be determined experimentally and show how they can be used to recover the underlying information of interest. We first consider the physical principles that enable SKPM and discuss how these affect the system PSF. We then show how one can experimentally measure PSFs by looking at well-defined features, and that these compare well to simulated PSFs, provided scans are performed extremely slowly and carefully. Next, we work at realistic scan speeds and show that the idealized PSFs fail to capture temporal distortions in the scan direction. While simulating PSFs for these situations would be quite challenging, we show that measuring PSFs with similar scan conditions works well. Our approach clarifies the basic principles and inherent challenges to SKPM measurements and gives practical methods to improve results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigated the effects of airborne-particle abrasion and nanosilica (nano-Si) infiltration treatment on the surface characteristics of dental zirconia. A total of 15 unsintered zirconia ceramic green bodies (10 × 10 × 3 mm) were divided into three groups (n = 5): Group C, no treatment after sintering; Group S, airborne-particle abrasion with 50-µm aluminum oxide particles after sintering; and Group N, infiltration of nano-Si followed by sintering and hydrofluoric acid (HF) etching. The zirconia disks' surface roughness was analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The surface morphology of the specimens was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the chemical composition was analyzed by energy-dispersive x-ray (EDX). Data were statistically analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis test (P < .05). Zirconia surface treatments by infiltration of nano-Si, sintering, and HF etching showed multiple changes in the surface features. The surface roughness of Groups C, S, and N were 0.88 ± 0.07 µm, 1.26 ± 0.10 µm, and 1.69 ± 0.15 µm, respectively. The surface roughness of Group N was significantly higher than that of Groups C and S (P < .05). EDX analysis showed peaks that corresponded to silica (Si) after infiltration with colloidal Si that disappeared following acid etching. Infiltrating nano-Si increases the surface roughness of zirconia. The formation of retentive nanopores on the surface potentially improves the zirconia-resin cement bonding strengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystal surfaces play a pivotal role in governing various significant processes, such as adsorption, nucleation, wetting, friction, and wear. A fundamental property that influences these processes is the surface free energy, γ. We have directly calculated γ(T) for low-index faces of Lennard-Jones (LJ), germanium, and silicon crystals along their sublimation lines using the computational cleavage technique. Our calculations agree well with experimental values for Si(111) and Ge(111), highlighting the accuracy of the method and models used. For LJ crystals, we identified a premelting onset at Tpm = 0.75Tm, marked by a sharp increase in atom mobility within the second outermost surface layer. Notably, Tpm closely aligned with the endpoint of the LJ melting line at negative pressures, Tend = 0.76Tm. We hypothesize that the emergence and coexistence of a liquid film atop the LJ crystal at Tpm < T < Tm correspond to the metastable melting line under negative pressures experienced by stretched crystal surfaces. Furthermore, our study of thin LJ crystal slabs reveals that premelting-induced failure leads to recrystallization below the homogeneous freezing limit, offering a promising avenue to explore crystal nucleation and growth at extremely deep supercoolings. Finally, no evidence of premelting was detected in the model crystals of Ge and Si, which is consistent with the experimental observations. Overall, our findings offer valuable insights into crystal surface phenomena at the atomic scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photochemical generation of nicotinamide cofactor 1,4-NADH, facilitated by inorganic photosensitizers, emerges as a promising model system for investigating charge transfer phenomena at the interface of semiconductors and bacteria, with implications for enhancing photosynthetic biohybrid systems (PBSs). However, extant semiconductor nanocrystal model systems suffer from achieving optimal conversion efficiency under visible light. This study investigates quasi-one-dimensional CdS nanorods as superior light absorbers, surface modified with catalyst Cp*Rh(4,4'-COOH-bpy)Cl2 to produce enzymatically active NADH. This model subsystem facilitates easy product isolation and achieves a turnover frequency (TOF) of 175 h-1, one of the highest efficiencies reported for inorganic photosensitizer-based nicotinamide cofactor generation. Charge transfer kinetics, fundamental for catalytic solar energy conversion, range from 106 to 108 s-1 for this system highlighting the superior electron transfer capabilities of NRs. This model ensures efficient cofactor production and offers critical insights into advancing systems that mimic natural photosynthesis for sustainable solar-to-chemical synthesis.

Biodegradable polymer-based nanocomposite coatings provide multiple advantages to modulate the corrosion resistance and cytocompatibility of magnesium (Mg) alloys for biomedical applications. Biodegradable poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a promising candidate used for medical implant applications. In this study, we synthesized a new PGS nanocomposite system consisting of hydroxyapatite (HA) and magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles and developed a spray coating process to produce the PGS nanocomposite layer on pretreated Mg substrates, which improved the coating adhesion at the interface and their cytocompatibility with bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Prior to the spray coating process of polymer-based nanocomposites, the Mg substrates were pretreated in alkaline solutions to enhance the interfacial adhesion strength of the polymer-based nanocomposite coatings. The addition of HA and MgO nanoparticles (nHA and nMgO) to the PGS matrix, as well as the alkaline pretreatment of the Mg substrates, significantly enhanced the interfacial adhesion strength when compared with the PGS coating on the nontreated Mg control. The average BMSC adhesion densities were higher on the PGS/nHA/nMgO coated Mg than the noncoated Mg controls under direct contact conditions. Moreover, the addition of nHA and nMgO to the PGS matrix and coating the nanocomposite onto Mg substrates increased the average BMSC adhesion density when compared with the PGS/nHA/nMgO coated titanium (Ti) and PGS coated Mg controls under direct contact. Therefore, the spray coating process of PGS/nHA/nMgO nanocomposites on Mg substrates or other biodegradable metal substrates could provide a promising surface treatment strategy for biodegradable implant applications.

The surface properties of nickel-based alloys with different alloying compositions against aggressively corrosive species were systematically evaluated by using the segregated and non-segregated models designed through first-principles calculations. The presence of typical VIB alloying elements such as chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and tungsten (W) elements near the nickel surface was identified to significantly enhance the surface adsorption of water molecules (H2O) and their decomposed products (OH, O, and H). The doping patterns and surface electronic structures were found to determine the adsorption diversity of these substances. Consequently, adsorbates containing oxygen were likely to induce the segregation tendencies of these selected alloying elements from the deep area of nickel toward the top-most surface layer (TSL). The electrode potential shifts of the surface Ni atom in the designed alloying systems, compared to the bare Ni (111) surface, were further calculated to identify the beneficial electrochemical performance of alloy surfaces in the absence/presence of various adsorbates. In vacuum, the locations of these alloying elements in the near-surface layers would more increase the electrode potential shifts, thereby delaying the dissolution of Ni atoms from metal substrates. Nevertheless, the presence of adsorbates led to notably negative electrode potential shifts for the Ni (111) surface, among which the decomposed products (hydroxyl and oxygen) were of the most passive effects on corrosion behavior of nickel. The detrimental effects of these adsorbates on surface stability would be effectively alleviated with the aid of atomic VIB alloying elements of nickel-based alloys, especially W segregation to the TSL regardless of the pH in aqueous environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methyl nitrite has two stable conformational isomers resulting from rotation about the primary C–O–N–O dihedral angle: cis-CH3ONO and trans-CH3ONO, with cis being more stable by ∼5 kJ/mol. The barrier to rotational interconversion (∼45 kJ/mol) is too large for isomerization to occur under ambient conditions. This paper presents evidence of a change in conformer abundance when dilute CH3ONO is deposited onto a cold substrate; the relative population of the freshly deposited cis conformer is seen to increase compared to its gas-phase abundance, measured by in situ infrared spectroscopy. We observe abundance changes depending on the identity of the bath gas (N2, Ar, and Xe) and deposition angle. The observations indicate that the surface properties of the growing matrix influence conformer abundance—contrary to the widely held assumption that conformer abundance in matrices reflects gas-phase abundance. We posit that differences in the angle-dependent host-gas deposition dynamics affect the growing surfaces, causing changes in conformer abundances. Quantum chemistry calculations of the binding energies between CH3ONO and a single bath-gas component reveal that significant energetic stabilization is not observed in 1:1 complexes of N2:CH3ONO, Ar:CH3ONO, or Xe:CH3ONO. From our results, we conclude that the growing surface plays a significant role in trapping cis-CH3ONO more effectively than trans-CH3ONO, likely because cis-CH3ONO is more compact. Taken together, the observations highlight the necessity for careful characterization of conformers in matrix-isolated systems, emphasizing a need for further study into the deposition dynamics and surface structure of chemically inert matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the difference in retention between implant-supported restorations with and without surface modification of the implant abutments. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients with singletooth implants were restored with cement-retained (Multilink N, Ivoclar) restorations using titanium base abutments (Variobase, Straumann) and randomly assigned surface modifications. Group 1 used nonmodified abutments, group 2 used sandblasted abutments, and group 3 used sandblasted abutments followed by an application of metal primer. All patients were recalled for a baseline examination 6 months after crown placement. The pull-out strength and intergroup distribution of mean pull-out strength were assessed. To assess differences between the three groups, intergroup statistical comparison of continuous variables was done using one-way ANOVA with Tukey correction for multiple group comparisons. Results: The results of the intergroup mean pull-out strength distribution revealed that the distribution of mean ± SD pull-out strength in group 1, group 2, and group 3 were 220.79 ± 94.23, 488.64 ± 84.12, and 705.46 ± 112.75 Ncm, respectively. Conclusions: Sandblasting followed by the application of metal primer produced the highest retention of porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns to titanium base abutments, followed by sandblasting alone, with the least retention being observed with no surface treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the effectiveness of coating of abutments with antimicrobial agents and their influence on the physicochemical and biologic properties of the coated materials. Materials and Methods: This work was registered in Open Science Framework (osf.io/6tkcp) and followed the PRISMA protocols. A search of two independent reviewers of articles published up to October 29, 2021, was performed in the Embase, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus databases. Results: The databases found a total of 1,474 references. After excluding the duplicates, 1,050 remained. After reading the titles and abstracts and applying the inclusion criteria, 13 articles remained and were read in full. A total of 8 articles were included in this systematic review. Different antimicrobial agents have been used to coat abutments, including graphene oxide, polydopamine, titanium and zirconium nitride, lactoferrin, tetracycline, silver, and doxycycline with varied release times. Titanium-coated silver showed a better antimicrobial agent release time of up to 28 days. Chemical analysis confirmed the presence of antimicrobials on the surface after coating. Different pathogenic microorganisms, such as Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus oralis, and Staphylococcus aureus, were inhibited when in contact with the coated surface. Conclusions: This review showed that there is still no consensus on which is the better antimicrobial agent and which coated materials have the better performance. However, the association of surface coating of abutments with antimicrobials is feasible and can benefit many patients, which can support their clinical use to favor the healing process and prevent infections that can lead to treatment failure with dental implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) has been used as a coating material of choice for a variety of technological applications owing to its favorable bio-tribo-thermo-mechanical characteristics. Here, the possibility of bringing DLC into orthopedic joint implants is examined. With ever increasing number of patients suffering from osteoarthritis as well as with the ingress of the osteoarthritic joints malaise into younger and more active demographics, there is a pressing need to augment the performance and integrity of conventional total joint replacements (TJRs). Contemporary joint replacement devices use metal-on-polymer articulations to restore function to worn, damaged or diseased cartilage. The wear of polymeric components has been addressed using crosslinking and antioxidants; however, in the context of the metallic components, complications pertaining to corrosion and metal ion release inside the body still persist. Through this review article, we explore the use of DLC coatings on metallic bearing surfaces and elucidate why this technology might be a viable solution for ongoing electrochemical challenges in orthopedics. The different characteristics of DLC coatings and their feasibility in TJRs are examined through assessment of tribo-material characterization methods. A holistic characterization of the coating-substrate interface and the wear performance of such systems are discussed. As with all biomaterials used in TJRs, we need mindful consideration of potential in-vivo challenges. We present a few caveats for DLC coatings including delamination, hydrophobicity, and other conflicting as well as outdating findings in the literature. We recommend prudently exploring DLC films as potential coatings on metallic TJR components to solve the problems pertaining to wear, metal ion release, and corrosion. Ultimately, we advise bringing DLC into clinical use only after addressing all challenges and concerns outlined in this article.

Effective synthesis and application of single-atom catalysts on supports lacking enough defects remain a significant challenge in environmental catalysis. Herein, we present a universal defect-enrichment strategy to increase the surface defects of CeO2-based supports through H2 reduction pretreatment. The Pt catalysts supported by defective CeO2-based supports, including CeO2, CeZrOx, and CeO2/Al2O3 (CA), exhibit much higher Pt dispersion and CO oxidation activity upon reduction activation compared to their counterpart catalysts without defect enrichment. Specifically, Pt is present as embedded single atoms on the CA support with enriched surface defects (CA-HD) based on which the highly active catalyst showing embedded Pt clusters (PtC) with the bottom layer of Pt atoms substituting the Ce cations in the CeO2 surface lattice can be obtained through reduction activation. Embedded PtC can better facilitate CO adsorption and promote O2 activation at PtC-CeO2 interfaces, thereby contributing to the superior low-temperature CO oxidation activity of the Pt/CA-HD catalyst after activation.

Considering the biological activity of osteoblasts is crucial when devising new approaches to enhance the osseointegration of implant surfaces, as their behavior profoundly influences clinical outcomes. An established inverse correlation exists between osteoblast proliferation and their functional differentiation, which constrains the rapid generation of a significant amount of bone. Examining the surface morphology of implants reveals that roughened titanium surfaces facilitate rapid but thin bone formation, whereas smooth, machined surfaces promote greater volumes of bone formation albeit at a slower pace. Consequently, osteoblasts differentiate faster on roughened surfaces but at the expense of proliferation speed. Moreover, the attachment and initial spreading behavior of osteoblasts are notably compromised on microrough surfaces. This review delves into our current understanding and recent advances in nanonodular texturing, meso-scale texturing, and UV photofunctionalization as potential strategies to address the biological dilemma of osteoblast kinetics, aiming to improve the quality and quantity of osseointegration. We discuss how these topographical and physicochemical strategies effectively mitigate and even overcome the dichotomy of osteoblast behavior and the biological challenges posed by microrough surfaces. Indeed, surfaces modified with these strategies exhibit enhanced recruitment, attachment, spread, and proliferation of osteoblasts compared to smooth surfaces, while maintaining or amplifying the inherent advantage of cell differentiation. These technology platforms suggest promising avenues for the development of future implants.

Dental implant therapy, established as standard-of-care nearly three decades ago with the advent of microrough titanium surfaces, revolutionized clinical outcomes through enhanced osseointegration. However, despite this pivotal advancement, challenges persist, including prolonged healing times, restricted clinical indications, plateauing success rates, and a notable incidence of peri-implantitis. This review explores the biological merits and constraints of microrough surfaces and evaluates the current landscape of nanofeatured dental implant surfaces, aiming to illuminate strategies for addressing existing impediments in implant therapy. Currently available nanofeatured dental implants incorporated nano-structures onto their predecessor microrough surfaces. While nanofeature integration into microrough surfaces demonstrates potential for enhancing early-stage osseointegration, it falls short of surpassing its predecessors in terms of osseointegration capacity. This discrepancy may be attributed, in part, to the inherent dichotomy kinetics of osteoblasts, wherein increased surface roughness by nanofeatures enhances osteoblast differentiation but concomitantly impedes cell attachment and proliferation. We also showcase a controllable, hybrid micro-nano titanium model surface and contrast it with commercially-available nanofeatured surfaces. Unlike the commercial nanofeatured surfaces, the controllable micro-nano hybrid surface exhibits superior potential for enhancing both cell differentiation and proliferation. Hence, present nanofeatured dental implants represent an evolutionary step from conventional microrough implants, yet they presently lack transformative capacity to surmount existing limitations. Further research and development endeavors are imperative to devise optimized surfaces rooted in fundamental science, thereby propelling technological progress in the field.

Treadmill walking has been used as a surrogate for overground walking to examine how load carriage affects gait. The validity of using treadmill walking to investigate load carriage's effects on stability has not been established. Thirty young adults were randomized into 3 front-loaded groups (group 1: 0%, 2: 10%, or 3: 20% of bodyweight). Participants carried their load during overground and treadmill walking. Dynamic gait stability (primary outcome) was determined for 2 gait events (touchdown and liftoff). Secondary variables included step length, gait speed, and trunk angle. Groups 1 and 2 demonstrated similar stability between walking surfaces. Group 3 was less stable during treadmill walking than overground (P ≤.005). Besides trunk angle, all secondary outcomes were similar between groups (P >.272) but different between surfaces (P ≤.001). The trunk angle at both events showed significant group- and surface-related differences (P ≤.046). Results suggested that walking with an anterior load of up to 10% bodyweight causes comparable stability between surfaces. A 20% bodyweight front load could render participants less stable on the treadmill than overground. This indicates that anteriorly loaded treadmill walking may not be interchangeable with overground walking concerning stability for anterior loads of 20% bodyweight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrathin ceramic veneers are a viable therapeutic option to manage esthetic challenges in the anterior zone. Proper conditioning of the intaglio surface of porcelain veneers is essential to achieve an adequate bonding. In clinical practice, this is typically done with chemical etching using an acid-containing agent, such as hydrofluoric acid. While it is well established that the etching effect is dependent on etching time and the acid concentration, little is known about the impact of etching time and the veneer fabrication method. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the effect that different etching-time protocols have on the intaglio surface characteristics of ultrathin ceramic veneers fabricated with either the platinum foil technique or the refractory die technique. Several replicas of an ultrathin feldspathic ceramic veneer for a maxillary central incisor were fabricated. Individual specimens were processed according to different intaglio surface-etching protocols: no etching, etching for 90 seconds, etching for 120 seconds, and etching for 150 seconds (9.6% hydrofluoric acid used for all etching groups). It was observed that the 120-second etching protocol resulted in a favorable microroughness surface pattern in the platinum foil group. This pattern was comparable to that obtained by etching for 90 seconds with hydrofluoric acid the intaglio surface of veneers fabricated with the refractory die technique. Increasing the etching time to 150 seconds did not result in a more favorable roughness pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the effects of a neuromuscular training program combining plyometric exercises with acceleration, deceleration, and change-of-direction drills conducted on sand or hard surfaces on the fitness qualities of young male tennis players. Methods: Thirty-one young male players were allocated to a training group performing 12 training sessions on sand or hard surfaces, during a 6-week period. Tests included linear sprint (10-m acceleration with 5-m split times), change of direction (modified 5-0-5 test), vertical jumps (countermovement jump and the 10/5 repeated-jump test), isometric hip abduction and adduction strength, and dynamic balance (Y-balance test). Perceived training loads and muscle soreness were assessed during the intervention. Results: Both training strategies were similarly effective in improving the analyzed fitness components. Group × time interaction effects were noticed, with countermovement jump (P =.032), repeated-jump test (P =.029), and reactive strength index (P =.008) favoring hard surfaces and 5-m sprint (P =.009), dynamic balance (P <.05), adduction strength (P <.05), and abduction strength (P <.001) indices favoring sand. Furthermore, the sand group promoted greater perceived training loads and muscle soreness (P <.05) than the hard group across the intervention period. Conclusion: Neuromuscular training strategies characterized by a relatively low volume (∼35 min), conducted on sand or hard surfaces, promoted similar improvements in the fitness qualities of young tennis players, with selected surface-interaction effects. Training on sand can cause transiently higher training loads and persistently higher muscle soreness, suggesting the need for an adequate familiarization period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing nanomaterials on the working electrode of sensors enables the fabrication of highly sensitive devices for the detection of various analytes. Herein, a facile synthesis method is used to formulate a grain-like cerium oxide (CeO2) nanostructure. The structural features and surface properties of the synthesized CeO2 nanostructure were studied, which showed that the CeO2 nanostructure exhibited grain-like morphology, good crystalline structure, and excellent vibrational properties. To evaluate the sensing properties of grain-like CeO2 nanostructure, nanomaterial slurry was prepared in butyldiglycol acetate binder. Then, the nanomaterial slurry was drop-casted onto the working electrode of the screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) to fabricate the CeO2-modified SPCE sensor. The sensor's electrochemical properties were analysed, which showed excellent charge-transfer behavior compared to the bare SPCE. CV-based electrochemical sensing of uric acid (UA) on a CeO2-modified SPCE sensor exhibited excellent linear performance up to 1070 μM UA. Moreover, the sensor offers good sensitivity, low detection limit, reproducibility, selectivity, and long-term stability. The CeO2-modified SPCE sensor demonstrated a promising application for UA detection in real samples, addressing the need for timely UA concentration monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskites refer to ceramic materials with an ABO 3 structure. The optimization of synthesis parameters and material composition can enhance the catalytic efficiency in various chemical reactions, such as dry methane reforming. In order to highlight the differences in the catalytic properties, this study aims to compare three synthesis methods (citrate, auto-combustion and Pechini) for a same perovskite formulation namely SrZr 0·5 Ni 0·4 Fe 0·1 O 3. The crystal structure and reducibility profile are determined by XRD and TPR experiences respectively. Surface properties and composition are identified by chemisorption tests (allowing the study of basicity and nickel dispersion) and XPS analyses, respectively. Isothermal catalytic experiences from 600 to 750 °C, under atmospheric pressure and for a WHSV of 40 L / h. g together with stability tests for 25 h at 750 °C were conducted. The outcomes show the importance of properly choosing the perovskite preparation methods in order to achieve the desired surface, structural and reactivity properties. [Display omitted] • Comparison of synthesis methods for substituted perovskites SrZrO3 with Ni and Fe. • Utilisation of citrate, auto-combustion and Pechini methods. • Dry methane reforming considered as a test reaction. • Effect of the method on surface properties, crystal structure and reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of barium oxide on glazes in the SiO 2 -Al 2 O 3 -CaO-MgO-K 2 O system was investigated. Samples were prepared with 0, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 wt% of barium oxide added to this system. The glazes were fired at 1240 °C and the structure and surface properties were determined. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of phase composition, surface properties, structural mid-infrared analysis, and microstructure were performed. Diopside was detected in all glazes as the MgO content was higher than 2.5 wt%. Hyalophane crystals were observed when the BaO content increased to 5 wt%. Mid-infrared studies showed that the appearance of crystalline phases ordered the structure of the glazes; on the other hand, the amorphous phase increased its disorder related to the higher amount of modifying barium cations. The addition of barium oxide did not significantly affect the color of the surface but caused an increase in roughness due to surface crystallization. The microhardness increased with an increased amount of barium in the amorphous phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to characterize how water capillary forces impact polymer‐substrate adhesion in ambient conditions. We analyzed hydrophobic poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) interacting with mica, silicon, and graphite substrates, each with distinct surface properties. Using polymer‐coated AFM tips/blank substrates, and vice versa, we explored the roles of water capillary forces and polymer‐substrate interactions on adhesion. When force spectroscopy experiments were conducted using polymer‐coated tips, adhesion was the largest on mica due to substantial water capillary forces between the tip and hydrophilic substrate. However, when using a blank tip and polymer‐coated substrates, the adhesion was largest on graphite and smallest on mica. This is because the blank tip interacted with the same hydrophobic polymer film for each experiment; therefore, water capillary forces had an equal magnitude on each substrate, allowing polymer‐substrate interactions to be compared even within ambient conditions. Moreover, single‐chain desorption events were consistently observed in these force‐distance curves since water capillary forces were significantly reduced. This study elucidated several aspects of how water capillary forces impact polymer‐substrate adhesion, which benefits applications reliant on polymer adhesion in ambient conditions and contributes to the fundamental understanding of polymer interface interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum alloys are widely used in lightweight automotive structures due to their excellent properties. To deeply explore the development of surface bonding technology, aluminum alloy is selected as the object, and current research status of aluminum alloy surface treatment methods is reviewed. The adhesion mechanism during joint preparation, the method of adhesive selection, and the bonding process are summarized. This overview discusses the impact of different surface treatment processes on aluminum alloy joints from two perspectives: substrate characteristics and joint failure modes. It examines how these processes affect surface roughness, surface morphology, surface contact angle, surface free energy, surface chemical composition, and bonding performance. Additionally, it looks ahead to key directions for future research on adhesive joint performance. The results indicate that surface treatment increases the surface roughness of aluminum alloys, reduces the contact angle, and improves surface wettability. Moreover, chemical elements or functional groups that enhance adhesion are introduced on the surface, improving the bonding capability between the adhesive and the substrate. Compared to single‐surface treatment methods, hybrid treatment methods significantly enhance the surface characteristics of aluminum alloys and are expected to become a primary focus for future research on bonded joint performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When there are no constraints upon the solutions of the equation 푨 ⁢ 흃 = 풚 {{\boldsymbol{A}}{\boldsymbol{\xi}}={\boldsymbol{y}}} , where 푨 {{\boldsymbol{A}}} is a K × N - {K\times N-} matrix, 흃 ∈ ℝ N {{\boldsymbol{\xi}}\in{\mathbb{R}}^{N}} and 풚 ∈ ℝ K {{\boldsymbol{y}}\in{\mathbb{R}}^{K}} a given vector, the description of the set of solutions as 풚 {{\boldsymbol{y}}} varies in ℝ K {{\mathbb{R}}^{K}} is well known. But this is not so when the solutions are required to satisfy 흃 ∈ 풦 ⁢ ∏ i ≤ j ≤ N [ a j , b j ] {{\boldsymbol{\xi}}\in{\mathcal{K}}\prod_{i\leq j\leq N}[a_{j},b_{j}]} , for finite a j ≤ b j : 1 ≤ j ≤ N {a_{j}\leq b_{j}:1\leq j\leq N} . To solve this problem we bring in a strictly convex, Fermi-Dirac entropy function Ψ ⁢ ( 흃 ) {\Psi({\boldsymbol{\xi}})} , and find the solution as a ⁢ r ⁢ g ⁢ m ⁢ i ⁢ n ⁢ { Ψ ⁢ ( 흃 ) : 흃 ∈ 풦 , 푨 ⁢ 흃 = y } {argmin\{\Psi({\boldsymbol{\xi}}):{\boldsymbol{\xi}}\in{\mathcal{K}},\,{% \boldsymbol{A}}{\boldsymbol{\xi}}=y\}} . If λ denotes the Lagrange multipliers of the optimization problem, we study the properties of the parametric surface 흀 → 흃 ⁢ ( 흀 ) {{\boldsymbol{\lambda}}\to{\boldsymbol{\xi}}({\boldsymbol{\lambda}})} in the geometry on 풦 {{\mathcal{K}}} defined by the Hessian metric derived from Ψ ⁢ ( 흃 ) {\Psi({\boldsymbol{\xi}})} . In particular, we prove that the surface 흀 → 흃 ⁢ ( 흀 ) {{\boldsymbol{\lambda}}\to{\boldsymbol{\xi}}({\boldsymbol{\lambda}})} is contained in ker ( 푨 ) ⊥ {\ker({\boldsymbol{A}})^{\perp}} in the Hessian metric derived from Ψ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coatings are utilized to enhance the surface properties of materials. This study aimed to modify the TiN coating with a novel sandwich-zigzag intermediate layer and delve into the intricate damage mechanisms under harsh corrosion-erosion coupling environments. Due to the infiltration of NaCl into the coating and the subsequent formation of TiO 2 , the sandwich-zigzag TiN coatings exhibited a reduction in mechanical behavior and erosion resistance when exposed to salt spray at 550 °C for 50 h. Moreover, the erosion rates of the as-corroded TiN coatings displayed an opposite trend compared to that of the as-deposited coatings, showing that the erosion rate was highest at the erosion angle of 30°. Nevertheless, the presence of the zigzag-TiN intermediate layer benefited the coating by preventing stress accumulation and heterogeneous interface. This ultimately improved the erosion resistance of the coatings by more than 2 times at universal erosion angle compared to that of the substrates under the synergistic effects of corrosion and erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decade, there has been significant effort dedicated to both fundamental research and practical applications of biomass-derived materials, including electrocatalytic energy conversion and various functional energy storage devices. Beyond their sustainability, eco-friendliness, structural diversity, and biodegradability, biomass-derived materials provide additional benefits, including naturally organized hierarchical structures, rich surface properties, and an abundance of heteroatoms. These characteristics make them appealing candidates for effective energy storage and electrocatalytic energy conversion applications. This review explores the recent advancements in biomass-derived materials for energy storage system (ESS), including supercapacitors and electrocatalytic reactions. We also address the scientific and technical hurdles associated with these materials and outline potential avenues for future research on biomass-based energy conversion applications. By emphasizing the significance of controllable structural designs and modifications, we highlight their crucial roles in advancing this field. Article Highlights: Biomass-derived materials offer sustainable solutions for energy storage & conversion. Challenges include fabrication of high-quality biomass-derived carbon materials. Future research directions aim to optimize structural designs for enhanced performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Methods Results Conclusions Existing methods to evaluate skin care products suffer limitations. This is the case for ex vivo skin explants, a first‐choice 3D model. While essential to analyse mid‐ to long‐term biological effects, this classical model hinders assessing microrelief variations. To circumvent these limitations, we developed an ex vivo PERFused EXplant setup (Perfex) that maintains the outer skin surface in the open air, closely mirroring physiological conditions.A custom‐designed reservoir enables perfusing the dermal side of explants with buffered, temperature‐controlled medium, while the epidermis is subjected to “normal” conditions. Skin tension and characteristics of the stratum corneum, microrelief, histology and immunohistology (collagen types I and III, elastin and fibrillin‐1) were analysed and compared to those of explants maintained under conventional conditions or in vivo skin. The effects of skin care formulas intended to induce short‐ and/or mid‐ to long‐term effects were also assessed.Skin explants maintained with the Perfex setup exhibit characteristics (firmness, elasticity, hydration and barrier function) closer to those of in vivo skin than with conventional conditions. Moreover, Perfex‐maintained explants present no alteration in histology after 7 days and slight variation in the expression of key protein markers. Microrelief characteristics also remain mostly stable over 7 days. Formula applications corroborate that skin tensor‐containing products primarily induce short‐term changes in the microrelief, while those with biologically active ingredients mainly lead to mid‐ to long‐term effects on the histology and expression of molecular markers. Furthermore, maintaining skin explants with a physiologically relevant skin surface enabled analysing the relationship between microrelief and key markers, showing that fibrillin‐1 is the protein most correlated with microrelief characteristics.The Perfex setup allows for similar preservation of skin explant histology and key protein expression as the conventional system, yet it maintains a skin surface close to that of in vivo skin. Therefore, it is valuable to analyse both the short‐ and mid‐ to long‐term impacts of skin care formulas and better comprehend their effects. The Perfex system also offers a new tool for investigating fundamental questions, such as the link that can exist between dermal proteins and skin surface properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In [Algebraic surfaces and hyperbolic geometry, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2012], Totaro gave examples of a K3 surface such that its automorphism group is not commensurable with an arithmetic group, answering a question of Mazur in Section 7 of [Bull. Amer. Math. Soc. (N.S.) 29 (1993), no. 1, 14–50]. We give examples of rational surfaces with the same property. Our examples Y$Y$ are Looijenga pairs, that is, there is a connected singular nodal curve D⊂Y$D \subset Y$ such that KY+D=0$K_{Y} + D = 0$. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nIntroduction: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore the degree whereby dentists differentiate between repair versus replacement for failed restorations. A random selection of adult patients from North Norway was chosen from the larger Tromsø 7 study. Methods: A randomized sample of 3,653 persons (11.5% of the total number of individuals invited to the Tromsø 7 study, 51.5% women, aged 40–93 years) were included. Based on FDI’s clinical criteria for the evaluation of restorations – 2010, 17 calibrated dentists evaluated patients by clinical and radiographical pictures in a specially designed software developed for this purpose. The dental practitioners’ opinions gave rise to the reported treatment decisions. Descriptive statistics and multivariable multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression models (STATA 17/SE) were performed. Results: The participants’ DMFT values ranged from 0 (0.9%) to 24 (8.8%) (median DMFT 21.3, mean 20.0). A total of 90.062 teeth (24.7 teeth per patient) were assessed. Re-treatment suggestions were made for 3,006 restorations, i.e., an average of 3.3% re-treatments. Of these, 25.3% (n = 814) were suggested for repair and 74.7% (n = 2,192) for replacement. Dental treatment was suggested for 1,597 patients and varying from 1 to 14 suggestions per patient. Secondary caries (37.6%) and restoration fracture (15.2%) were found to be most frequently used indications for re-treatment, surface properties the least. No significant difference was found between assessing dentists based on sex or age. Clustering by dentist level was checked using intra-class correlation coefficients, demonstrating that 16% of the variance in suggestions for restoration re-treatment was explained at the dentist level. Thus, a wide range of treatment suggestions was noted among the dentists. Conclusion: Need for restoration revision seems low in North Norway. There is a tendency towards larger and more indirect restorations, and the diagnosis of secondary caries is still a matter of uncertainty. A randomized population of adults over 40 years, selected among the citizens of Tromsø County in North Norway, were examined by dentists, resulting in a study group of 3,653. Clinical examinations were executed, clinical photos and X-rays taken of each patient in a dental clinic. This is part of the Tromsø 7 study. A specially designed data programme was developed, and 17 trained dentists were able to assess the clinical state of restorations. All the dentists were working as clinical teachers in dental schools. The purpose was to decide what kind of treatment they thought best for unacceptable restorations. Should they be replaced or repaired if revision was needed. Only 3.3% of all examined teeth were proposed for restoration revision, which seemed to be rather low. Among the suggested revisions, approx. 25% were recommended for repair, while 75% was assigned for replacement. Tooth-coloured material, i.e., composite, was recommended in almost 75% of the cases. Different kinds of crowns counted for 25%. A considerable difference in the number of treatment suggestions was noted among the dentists. Statistical analyses demonstrated that 16% of the difference in suggestions for restoration re-treatment depended on different dentist opinions. Secondary caries and restoration fracture were found to be the most used indications for re-treatment. Need for restoration revision seems low in North Norway. However, there is a tendency towards larger and more indirect restorations. The diagnosis of secondary caries is still a matter of uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) is a strongly correlated material that exhibits a number of structural phase transitions (SPT) near to room temperature of considerable utility for various technological applications. When reduced to the nanoscale, a foreknowledge of surface and interface properties of VO2 during the SPT can facilitate the development of devices based on VO2. Herein, it is shown that Bragg coherent X‐ray diffractive imaging (BCDI) combined with machine learning is an effective means to recover three‐dimensional images of a single VO2 nanocrystal during a temperature‐induced SPT from a room‐temperature monoclinic phase to a high‐temperature rutile phase. The findings reveal the coexistence of multiple phases within the nanocrystal throughout the transition, along with missing density which indicates the presence of a newly formed rutile phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe foundation bearing capacity in island reef infrastructure construction is often inadequate due to the poor engineering properties of calcareous sand. Enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) has emerged as an efficient and environmentally friendly method to improve these properties, significantly enhancing the mechanical behavior of calcareous sand. However, the effectiveness of EICP is constrained by environmental factors that affect free urease activity and the limited availability of nucleation sites. To further improve the mechanical properties of EICP-reinforced calcareous sand, this study explores the addition of biochar to the sand. The characteristics of the samples were evaluated using unconfined compressive strength tests, calcium carbonate content measurements, and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that incorporating biochar into EICP significantly increases calcium carbonate production, strengthens the reinforced sand, and reduces surface porosity. This improvement is attributed to biochar’s surface properties, which provide additional nucleation sites for calcium carbonate formation, enhancing calcium carbonate content and sand strength. However, controlling the biochar content at approximately 5% is crucial to avoid excessive porosity, which could weaken the material. These findings offer a theoretical foundation for applying EICP-biochar-reinforced calcareous sand in engineering projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, memristors have garnered significant attention, particularly those based on the oxygen vacancy-driven filamentary conduction mechanism. However, studies utilizing single-crystal materials for memristors remain scarce. This study investigates memristive effect of Se-implanted β-Ga2O3 single-crystal material, fabricated through ion implantation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and depth profiling revealed that Se doping significantly increased the concentration of oxygen vacancies, crucial for resistive switching (RS). Electrical testing demonstrated stable and repeatable resistive switching behavior, attributed to the filamentary conduction mechanism driven by oxygen vacancies. These findings highlight the potential of ion implantation for tuning the surface properties of Ga2O3-based memristors, advancing their application in next-generation electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anode is the key material that constrains the performance of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). Here, we have developed self-assembled Sm 0.5 Sr 0.5 CoO 3-δ -Ce 0.8 Sm 0.2 O 2-δ (SSC-SDC) composite by the co-synthesis strategy and studied its electrochemical performance as the anode for SOECs. The surface and interface properties of the self-assembled SSC-SDC composite were systematically studied. The SDC lattice expansion and the SSC lattice contraction of the SSC-SDC composite have been shown by XRD analysis, ascribed to the strong cation interdiffusion during the self-assembly process. The self-assembled SSC-SDC also exhibits superior oxygen evolution activity and displays a larger oxygen desorption peak than the physically mixed SSC&SDC. A higher proportion of adsorbed oxygen species on the surface of the self-assembled SSC-SDC than the physically mixed SSC&SDC also have been shown by XPS results. The cell with the self-assembled SSC-SDC as anode exhibits ca. 2.1 times higher current density than the physically mixed SSC&SDC as anode. Meanwhile, the polarization resistance of the cell with self-assembled SSC-SDC as the anode is 0.0957 Ω cm2, which is only 40 % of that observed in the cell where SSC and SDC are physically mixed as the anode. This novel self-assembly strategy shows great potential for preparing high-performance oxygen electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fixed orthodontic appliances act as a niche for microbial growth and colonization. Coating orthodontic wires with antimicrobial silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and nanocomposite was adopted in this study to augment the biological activity of these wires by increasing their antibacterial and antibiofilm properties and inhibiting bacterial infections that cause white spot lesions and lead to periodontal disease. Methods: Three concentrations of biologically synthesized AgNPs were used for coating NiTi wires. The shape, size, and charge of the AgNPs were determined. Six groups of 0.016 × 0.022-inch NiTi orthodontic wires, each with six wires, were used; and coated with AgNPs and nanocomposites. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of these coated wires were tested against normal flora and multidrug-resistant bacteria (Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial isolates). The surface topography, roughness, elemental percentile, and ion release were characterized. Results: AgNPs and nanocomposite coated NiTi wires showed significant antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. The chitosan-silver nanocomposite (CS-Ag) coated wires had the greatest bacterial growth inhibition against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The surface roughness of the coated wires was significantly reduced, impacting the surface topography and with recorded low Ni and Ag ion release rates. Conclusions: NiTi orthodontic wires coated with AgNPs, and nanocomposites have shown increased antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, with decreased surface roughness, friction resistance and limited- metal ion release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non Carious Cervical Lesions (NCCLs) represent a prevalent dental condition characterised by the erosion of tooth structure at the cementoenamel junction without the involvement of dental caries. These lesions pose significant challenges due to their aesthetic impact, potential for dentinal hypersensitivity, plaque accumulation, pulpal complications and compromised structural integrity of the teeth. Tooth preparation traditionally uses diamond abrasive points and tungsten carbide burs for micromechanical adhesion. Newer methods, like ultrasonic tips, offer a more conservative approach, but limited research has compared their effects on bond strength, particularly in cervical cavity restorations with nanohybrid composites. Aim: To compare the surface roughness of cervical cavity preparations utilising diamond abrasive points and ultrasonic tips, and to evaluate the shear bond strength of restorations with composite resin. Materials and Methods: The present in-vitro comparative study was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Guru Nanak Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, Panihati, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, from October 2023 to December 2023. The study included 52 freshly extracted maxillary 1st premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. These teeth were divided into two groups: Group-I (n=26) underwent surface preparation using a diamond abrasive point (No. 835-012, Piranha, SS White, USA), while Group-II (n=26) was prepared using an ultrasonic tip (Woodpecker G 20, Guilin Woodpecker, China). Teeth were cleaned, disinfected and stored in 0.1% thymol solution before being prepared with diamond abrasive points or ultrasonic tips, following which the specimens were restored using nanohybrid composite material (Solare X, GC Corporation, Japan). Surface roughness was assessed using a digital profilometer before the restoration, and the shear bond strength of repaired specimens was measured with a Universal Testing Machine. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism, with independent samples t-tests applied to compare results between groups, and a significance level set at 5%. Results: Group-I exhibited greater surface roughness (6.33±2.18 μm) compared to Group-II (4.91±1.57 μm). Group-I also showed higher shear bond strength (62±13 MPa) than Group-II (59.3±19.9 MPa), though this variation was not statistically significant (p-value=0.56). Conclusion: Within the present study's limitations, diamond abrasive points created significantly greater surface roughness compared to ultrasonic tips. However, no statistically significant variations have been observed in shear bond strength among the two methods, suggesting that ultrasonic tips may be considered as an alternative to diamond abrasive points in clinical settings, avoiding their drawbacks while achieving adequate restoration retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low‐resistivity Ohmic contacts to Gallium‐face (G‐aface) and/or Nitrogen‐face (‐Nface) n‐GaN are undoubtedly needed for high‐quality vertical power devices. Contrary to Ga‐face n‐GaN, for which the Ohmic contact formation is a well‐established process, the formation of low‐resistivity Ohmic contacts to N‐face n‐GaN is much more difficult due to the different surface properties. Despite many efforts, obtaining low‐resistivity ohmic contacts, with ρc < 1 × 10−5 Ω cm2 to N face n‐GaN, still remains difficult to achieve. Herein, results of fabrication and characterization of Ti/Al/TiN/Au ohmic contacts to Ga‐ and N‐face n‐GaN for vertical power devices are presented. The optimum annealing temperature is examined and it is noticed that Ohmic contacts to Ga‐face n‐GaN (n ≈ 5 × 1018 cm−3 , 200 nm on bulk GaN substrate) are formed after 550 °C annealing and continuously lower their ρc up to temperature of 750 °C for which ρc is ≈1.86 × 10−6 Ω cm2. Ohmic contact to N‐face n‐GaN (bulk ammonothermally grown substrate, ρ ≈ 10−3–10−2 Ω cm2) becomes quasilinear after annealing at 650 °C and becomes linear after annealing at 700 °C, reaching a minimum value of ρc 6 × 10−6 Ω cm2. Further annealing at higher temperatures increases the contact resistivity to the value of ≈5.8 × 10−5 cm2 for annealing at 800 °C. The electrical measurements results were accompanied with the results of structural characterization for determination of Ohmic contact formation mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The saffron composition is being widely studied for authenticity and traceability, but very few works have been carried out to investigate the relationship between the chemical and physico-chemical properties of saffron solutes and their technological functionality in colloidal systems. This study aims at evaluating the surface properties of saffron extracts obtained using solvents of different polarities to achieve extracts with different compositions in terms of the pattern and content of polar and medium polarity crocins. The air–water surface was evaluated alone and in the presence of Tween 20 at different surfactant–extract ratios. Saffron extracts were able to decrease the surface tension of the aqueous phase, indicating the presence of surface-active compounds. In the mixed saffron extract–Tween 20 systems, competitive adsorption at the air–water interface occurred when the surfactant was present at a low concentration, while at concentrations higher than the CMC, Tween 20 hindered the adsorption of the extract surface-active compounds. The results highlight the interesting technological functionality of saffron extracts for applications in colloidal systems. To better exploit their use in the design and development of formulated foods, nutraceutics and pharma products, further studies are needed to unravel the relationship between the composition of saffron extracts and corresponding surface activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of osteointegration depends significantly on the surface roughness, structure, chemical composition, and mechanical characteristics of the coating. In this regard, an important direction in the development of medical materials is the development of new techniques of surface modification and the creation of bioactive ceramic coatings. Calcium-phosphate materials based on hydroxyapatite have been proposed as bioactive ceramic coatings on titanium implants for the effective acceleration of bone tissue healing. To obtain bioactive ceramic coatings, pulse power sources are best suited, namely detonation spraying, in which the energy of the explosion of gas mixtures is used as a source of pulse action. The pulse mode of operation in the detonation spraying method is preferable for the formation of bioactive ceramic coatings. It provides a high velocity of hydroxyapatite particles, which promotes their effective fixation on the titanium substrate, while minimizing the heating of the material. This approach preserves the substrate structure and improves the coating adhesion. Four different types of coatings with varying O2/C2H2 molar ratios, ranging from 2.6 to 3.7, were obtained using detonation spraying. Powders and obtained coatings of hydroxyapatite were studied by Raman spectroscopy and XRD structural analysis. The results of XRD phase analysis showed the partial conversion of the hydroxyapatite phase to the α-tricalcium phosphate (α-TCP) phase during the detonation spraying process. The results obtained by Raman spectroscopy indicate that hydroxyapatite is the main phase in coatings. All hydroxyapatite-based coatings exhibited hydrophobic properties, which was confirmed by contact-angle values above 90° in wettability tests, characteristic of hydrophobic surfaces. The adhesive strength of the coatings was measured by the scratch test method. Tribological tests were conducted using the ball-on-disk method under both dry conditions and in Ringer's solution. This approach enabled the evaluation of wear resistance and friction coefficient of the coatings in different environments, simulating both lubrication-free conditions and those resembling physiological environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood–plastic composites (WPCs) combine the properties of plastics and lignocellulosic fillers. A particular limitation in their use is usually a hydrophobic, poorly wettable surface. The surface properties of materials can be modified using ion implantation. The research involved using composites based on polyethylene (PE) filled with sawdust or bark (40%, 50%, and 60%). Their surfaces were modified by argon ion implantation in three fluencies (1 × 1015, 1 × 1016, and 1 × 1017 cm−2) at an accelerating voltage of 60 kV. Changes in the wettability, surface energy, and surface colour of the WPCs were analysed. It was shown that argon ion implantation affects the distinct colour change in the WPC surface. The nature of the colour changes depends on the filler used. Implantation also affects the colour balance between the individual variants. Implantation of the WPC surface with argon ions resulted in a decrease in the wetting angle. In most of the variants tested, the most significant effect on the wetting angle changes was the ion fluence of 1 × 1017 cm−2. Implantation of the WPC surface also increased the surface free energy of the composites. The highest surface free energy values were also recorded for the argon ion fluence of 1 × 1017 cm−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We assessed the changes in optical properties and biocompatibility of transition zones in multilayered translucent monolithic zirconia exposed to prolonged hydrothermal aging and compared the results to those with different yttrium oxide contents. Materials and Methods: Four types of zirconia blocks from IPS e.max ZirCAD were used: 3Y-TZP e.max ZirCAD LT (ZL), 4Y-TZP e.max ZirCAD MT (ZM), 5Y-TZP e.max ZirCAD MT Multi (ZT), and 3Y/5Y-TZP e.max ZirCAD Prime (ZP). A total of 120 specimens (15.0 mm diameter and 1.5 mm height) were fabricated and divided into three groups (n = 10). The aging process for the specimens was conducted in an autoclave set to 134 °C and 0.2 MPa, with durations of 0 h (control), 5 h (first aged), and 10 h (second aged). The optical properties and biocompatibility were analyzed, followed by a statistical analysis of the data (α = 0.05). Results: Before and after aging, ZL and ZP exhibited the lowest color changes. ZT exhibited the highest average transmittance and translucency parameter values, while ZL had the lowest. The water contact angle test showed the highest value in ZM and lowest in ZL across all the aging stages. ZL, ZM, and ZP showed a considerable decrease in the water contact angle; however, ZT did not. A cell counting kit-8 assay showed ZL had the highest value, while ZM had the lowest. A filamentous actin test exhibited the highest value in ZL and lowest in ZM. In the vinculin analysis, ZL and ZT exhibited the lowest values, whereas ZM and ZP had the highest. Conclusion: 3Y/5Y-TZP exhibited a balanced performance across critical parameters, such as color stability, translucency, and biocompatibility, aligning with 3Y-TZP. While 5Y-TZP demonstrated superior translucency, it confirmed the lowest color stability, whereas 3Y-TZP achieved the highest biocompatibility. These properties provide clinicians with a reliable material option that ensures superior esthetic outcomes and long-term prognosis, ultimately contributing to improved patient satisfaction and clinical longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment on the enamel of twelve primary teeth (incisors, canines, and molars) collected from six children was examined in order to evaluate the possibility of using the CAP technique in dental applications. A radio-frequency dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma jet operating at a voltage of 3.25 kV using a mixture of helium and oxygen as the working gas was used for the generation of plasma as part of the electro-technological method for the treatment of biological material. The plasma exposure time for the primary teeth was 5, 10, and 20 min. The properties of tooth enamel (color, contact angles, surface roughness, surface topography, elemental composition) were examined before (control) and after the plasma treatment. As shown by the results, the plasma treatment time is a key parameter that can induce desired features, such as whitening or improved wettability. However, with prolonged plasma treatment (20 min), the enamel surface may be permanently damaged. The cold-plasma-treated samples were characterized by a higher value of the brightness L* parameter and thus a lighter color, compared to the CAP-untreated teeth. It was also evidenced that the plasma treatment increased the hydrophilicity of tooth surfaces, and the contact angles effectively decreased with the time of the CAP treatment. The tooth surface also became much more heterogeneous and rough with much greater amplitudes in heights. The surface of the primary teeth after the CAP treatment lost its homogeneity, as evidenced by the SEM micrographs. The analysis of the elemental composition revealed only minor changes after the plasma process, which may suggest that the observed morphological changes in the enamel surface are mainly physical and are not a consequence of chemical reactions between the enamel and the reactive components of the cold plasma. Plasma treatment of teeth opens up new possibilities of using this method as an alternative to whitening or pre-treatment before other dental procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposed model structure, featuring a gold (Au) nano‐island film (GNIF) integrated with a vertically stacked van der Waals heterojunction and offering an elegant platform for high‐performance, efficient, and sensitive photodetection across a broad spectral range, is designated as GNIF‐MoS₂/p‐Ge(MoS2 = Molybdenum disulfide, p‐Ge = p type germanium). The GNIF is fabricated via ultrathin film deposition, based on the surface dewetting properties of MoS2. The as‐fabricated photodetector (PD), offering ≈20 times reduction in dark current and characterized by wavelength‐dependent high responsivity (R(λ)), photoconductive gain (G(λ)), and detectivity (D(λ)), respond to a broad spectral range from visible light (400 nm) to short wave infrared (SWIR) (1600 nm). The ultrahigh transient response (τr) is found to be ≈2.5 and 16 µs for the 470 (visible light) and 1550 (SWIR) nm wavelengths, respectively, resulting in 3‐dB bandwidths of up to ≈48 kHz, which is considered high for such devices. To understand the inherent mechanisms of broadband detection and the high photoresponse and ultrafast transient response of PDs, a meticulous investigation is conducted on the wavelength‐dependent behaviors, depletion width changes, and material properties. The results provide valuable insights and a basis for the construction of suitable PDs based on nanometer‐thin metal films, 2D semiconductors, and a 3D hybrid structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic particles are emerging water-laden waste that cause a worrying concern towards the environment and humans health. Due to its small size and geometry, and uncertain surface properties, the microplastic waste capturing method in water is still evolving. To date, a number of findings report on the emergence of microplastic surface charging, especially when exposed to water environment. In this study, the natural rubber (NR) latex band was utilized to capture the microplastic waste via a surface capturing mechanism. The NR band was produced using a film casting and curing methods. The surface charging mechanism on the NR band was introduced via the usage of high amount of ZDEC accelerator and, periodic stretching and relaxation procedures. In this work, ZDEC was used as an accelerator for the rubber formulation, and surface charge booster for the NR band. The surface charge of the NR band generates electrostatic interaction with the microplastic waste in water. The polypropylene (PP) microplastic was captured via the surface attraction mechanism using the manufactured NR band. Based on FTIR analysis, the presence of PP microplastic can be quantified on the contaminated NR band surface. The NR band shows the improvement in tensile and tear properties and crosslink density, mainly due to high amount of ZDEC used. At ZDEC loading of 20 phr, the NR band recorded the highest surface potential value, and this is owing to the formation of Zn2+ complex ions on its surface. XRF analysis indicates that the increment of Zn content in the NR band with increasing ZDEC content, that suggests the formation of Zn2+ complex ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this study, the effects of adding titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2) to 3D‐printed denture base resin on the mechanical and physical properties of denture bases were examined for the first time. Methods: The specimens were digitally created using 3D builder software from Microsoft Corporation through computer‐aided design. In accordance with the test specifications for transverse strength, impact strength, hardness, surface roughness, and color stability, specimens were designed and printed with certain dimensions following relevant standards. TiO2 nanotubes (diameter: 15–30 nm and length: 2–3 μm) were added to the 3D‐printed denture base resin (DentaBase, Asiga, Australia) at 1.0% and 1.5% by weight. Flexural strength, impact strength (Charpy impact), hardness, surface roughness, and color stability were evaluated, and the collected data were analyzed with ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05). Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) mapping were used to evaluate the dispersion of the nanotubes. Results: Compared with those of the control group (0.0 wt.% TiO2 nanotubes), the average flexural, impact, and hardness values of the 1.0 and 1.5 wt.% TiO2 nanotube reinforcement groups increased significantly. Both nanocomposite groups showed significant color changes compared to that of the pure resin, and there was a considerable reduction in the surface roughness of the nanocomposites compared to that of the control group. Conclusion: Adding TiO2 nanotubes to 3D‐printed denture base materials at 1.0 and 1.5 wt.% could enhance the mechanical and physical properties of the material, leading to better clinical performance. Clinical Significance: In terms of clinical applications, 3D‐printed denture base material has been shown to be a viable substitute for traditional heat‐cured materials. By combining this with nanotechnology, existing dentures could be significantly enhanced, promoting extended service life and patient satisfaction while addressing the shortcomings of the current standard materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the interface of biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) fiber-reinforced thermoplastic starch composites to address market demand for their mechanical properties. We first used a combination of solution treatment (acid/alkali) and plasma modification to modify fibers. This method improves surface roughness and increases oxygen-containing groups of the fibers, which enhances the mechanical interlocking at the interface and promotes stronger hydrogen bonds between fibers and starch, respectively. Their synergy effect significantly strengthens interfacial adhesion and interfacial shear strength (IFSS). In contrast, cold plasma modification alone results in a smaller increase in IFSS because of its lower roughness and fewer oxygen-containing groups. Alkaline treatment and increased cold plasma power level are more conducive to higher IFSS through stronger synergistic effects. Although IFSS improved from 2.41 to 4.40 MPa after alkali and plasma treatments of 200 W, the tensile strength decreased from 811.46 to 351.55 MPa. To optimize the mechanical properties of composite materials, it is crucial to choose a kind of modification method that balances IFSS enhancement and tensile strength reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural residues, specifically canola meal (CM) and oat hull (OH), have been innovatively utilized to develop biosorbents for sorbing water vapor from the air. These biomaterials are comprised of hydrophilic functional groups that effectively perform air dehydration. Air, being non-polar, was used as a model gas in this study to simulate gas dehydration. In the current research, these materials were formed into pellets to produce high-quality biosorbents with controlled size, shape, and enhanced moisture uptake capacity. CM (309.48 mg/g) and OH (233.07 mg/g) pellets had higher or comparable water sorption capacities than commercialized adsorbents used for drying gases. The mixed-order kinetic model described the sorption process well and identified both mass transfer and sorption on active site steps (R2 > 0.991 and χ2 < 16.0). Regarding the OH pellet, sorption on active sites was the predominant kinetic mechanism at the beginning, followed by intraparticle diffusion until equilibrium. However, sorption on CM pellets was delayed at 4.2 min at the initial stage, owing to the external mass transfer resistance; then, intraparticle diffusion controlled the process until equilibrium. Adding sodium lignosulfonate (LSNa) lowered the initial sorption rate but enhanced the water uptake and strength of pellets. The addition of LSNa resulted in a 25% and 14% increase in the water uptake capacity of oat hull and canola meal pellets, respectively; conversely, it also caused an increase in the delay time for sorption on CM pellets at the beginning of the process, extending it to 9.50 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research study focuses on the microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of a post-laser cladding deposition (LCD) of a mixture of different proportions of customized 410L and 4140 steel powders (A)50:50, B)80:20, C)90:10) on an AISI 1060 substrate. The microstructure study was carried out by light optical (LOM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was also conducted for crystal structure analysis. The mechanical behavior of the LCD samples was investigated via Vickers hardness testing. Furthermore, surface evaluation was conducted via a roughness measurement tester. Finally, Taber abrasion tests were performed to assess wear resistance. Microstructural observations showed that a small-sized pore volume fraction characterized LCD coatings of all samples, and neither the bead zone nor heat-affected zone had any signs of defects such as insufficient dilution, alloying elements' microsegregation and internal cracks. Moreover, four sub-areas in HAZ were distinguished, owing to their different microstructural characteristics, determined by the rapid cooling rate and the scaled temperature distribution. Finally, the results of this study, regarding the mechanical properties results, showed that the increase of 410L powder ratio could ensure a combination of the highest hardness value and excellent wear resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shape-memory polyester films having functional groups were prepared and further grafted onto poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) via atom-transfer radical polymerization. The grafting point of PNIPAAm was controlled by changing the composition of good and poor solvents. In the case of graft polymerization using only good solvents, the film swells, and polymerization proceeds not only from the surface but also from the internal polymerization initiation points. By increasing the proportion of poor solvents, PNIPAAm was grafted onto the surface of the film without swelling. The samples grafted to the interior regions of the film exhibited a decrease in the shape-memory recovery rate and recovery speed, whereas the samples grafted only to the surface of the film exhibited high shape-memory properties. Furthermore, contact-angle measurements revealed that the surface-grafted polymer exhibited changes in surface properties in response to film deformation. Because the deformation of the film is a large change, on the order of several millimeters, the deformation of the manually stretched film was shown to control molecular-level changes on the surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polyester fabric was subjected to atmospheric plasma and impregnated with commercially available 3‐hydroxyphenyl phosphinyl‐propanoic acid (3HPP) as flame retarding agent by high‐temperature high pressure (HTHP) dyeing method. Various concentrations of 3HPP in water, up to 4% w/v, were applied using the HTHP method. It was observed that the plasma treatment not only enhanced wettability and wicking but also facilitated increased pickup of 3HPP onto the polyester. The treatment exhibited a noteworthy enhancement in the limiting oxygen index (LOI), rising from 20.8% for the untreated control fabric to 30% for the fabric treated with plasma and a 4% 3HPP solution. Additionally, the application of 3HPP without plasma treatment did not yield significant improvements in flame‐retardant (FR) properties. The combined treatment of plasma and 3HPP resulted in an LOI of 29% with a 2% 3HPP treatment, while at the same concentration without plasma treatment, the LOI value was 26.8%. The heightened LOI was primarily attributed to the presence of phosphorus, as confirmed by high‐performance liquid chromatography and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Additionally, the wash durability assessment of plasma‐processed and 3HPP‐treated samples demonstrated sustained flame retardancy, with an LOI of approximately 28% even after undergoing 20 wash cycles. Vertical flammability and cone calorimetry also confirm improved FR properties after treatment. Remarkably, the mechanical properties and surface morphology of the fabric remained unaltered following both plasma and chemical treatments. Highlights: Easy and cost‐effective technique for the downstream process for FR polyester fabric.FR agent during polymerization has the disadvantage of lower molecular weight.Potential for producing FR industrial polyester fabric.Post‐plasma treatment improves the washing fastness.The mechanical and comfort properties remain intact during the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]