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This work demonstrates an additive and hydrogen‐free 2‐step lignin‐first fractionation in flow‐through. First, solvolytic delignification renders lignin liquors with its native chemical structure largely intact; and second, ß‐zeolite catalytic depolymerization of these liquors leads to similar monomer yields as the corresponding 1‐step fractionation process. Higher delignification temperatures lead to slightly lower ß−O−4 content in the solvated lignin, but does not affect significantly the monomer yield, so a higher temperature was overall preferred as it promotes faster delignification. Deposition of Pd on ß‐zeolite resulted in a bifunctional hydrogenation/dehydration catalyst, tested during the catalytic depolymerization of solvated lignin with and without hydrogen addition. Pd/ß‐zeolite displays synergistic effects (compared to the Pd/γ‐Al2O3 and ß‐zeolite tested individually and as a mixed bed), resulting in higher monomer yield. This is likely caused by increased acidity and the proximity between the metallic and acid active sites. Furthermore, different ß‐zeolite with varying SAR and textural properties were studied to shed light onto the effect of acidity and porosity in the stabilization of lignin monomers. While some of the catalysts showed stable performance, characterization of the spent catalyst reveals Al leaching (causing acidity loss and changes in textural properties), and some degree of coking and Pd sintering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveCompare the relevance of flow-through versus static diffusion cells data as relates to bioequivalence.MethodsSearch was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar. Keywords utilized: static cells, flow-through cells, percutaneous permeation, percutaneous absorption, dermal absorption, and types of permeation.ResultsFifteen articles were identified with no consistent significant differences between flow-through and static diffusion cells identified; any differences could exist for two main reasons. (1) Sampling time differences and (2) physical chemistry (lipophilic vs hydrophilic) of the penetrant examined.ConclusionEven though there was no consistent significant difference observed, labs have generally adapted to the method they regularly use, which is usually stated in their respective articles. Well-designed multicentered prospective comparative experiments should clarify potential advantages and disadvantages for each. For flow-through systems, the flow rate that most approximates to comparable in vivo data for animals and humans may be preferable.

Biofilters are effectively used for drinking water treatment. However, the long ripening time of virgin media for manganese (Mn) removal is a major concern. In this study, the influence of the flow regime on the ripening time of virgin pumice medium was investigated. For this purpose, pilot-scale experiments were performed to compare the start-up of flow-through and recirculating filter columns using inherent inoculation with the same groundwater source. The systems were operated at 2 m·h−1 with gradual flow increments up to 5 m·h−1 and avoiding Fe-loading. Effective Mn removal (>90%) in flow-through and recirculating columns was achieved after 8 and 23 days, respectively. Flow-through columns reached compliance with a local drinking water criterion (Mn < 0.1 mg·L−1) at 15 cm filter depth in 11 days. Recirculating filter columns required 32 days to reach compliance at 30 cm depth. The start-up in recirculation regime resulted in a water consumption reduction of about 50% compared with flow-through regime. The intermittent provision of the Mn-loading in recirculating regime impacted the Mn-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) concentration in the pumice stone medium. Both flow regimes required a similar total Mn-loading (0.16 and 0.11 kg·Mn·m−2, respectively), suggesting that Mn-loading was the limiting factor for the ripening of pumice. HIGHLIGHTS Flow-through filter columns reached effective Mn removal (>90%) in only 8 days.; Recirculating flow regime required 23 days, however, with 50% less water consumption.; Both flow regimes registered a similar total Mn-loading (0.11–0.16 kg·Mn·m−2).; Intermittent Mn-loading provision impacted the Mn-oxidizing bacteria concentration in the pumice stone medium.; Mn-loading was the limiting factor for the ripening of pumice stone medium.;

There have been several attempts in enhancing corrosion jar testing methods to better mimic realworld conditions found in drinking water distribution systems. A key feature that is generally omitted in such studies is zero headspace and the lack of interaction with the atmosphere within the jars as well as the flow interactions which affect total metal release. This work proposes a modified method to typical corrosion jar testing protocols to better simulate distribution system conditions. Modified separatory funnels with the addition of a rubber stopper and coupon holder were set-up to allow an in-flow and out-flow for water replacement every three to 4 d. The results demonstrated the effectiveness and reproducibility of the modified method, specifically with the analysis of variance conducted. A synthetic water test using both the modified and original methods showed a statistical difference between the two, and decreased variability in the metal release with the new procedure. Enhanced dissolved oxygen depletion was also observed with the modified method. The results of another study conducted, using actual waters, was used to create an empirical model with the water quality parameters measured, and the total metal release. This model was a good fit, with a 0.81 R-squared value and a 0.71 linear slope between the predicted and measured copper concentrations. In addition, first-order rate law models were created for fitting the metal release observed. The resultant equations were not good fits the batch testing conducted, however, the first-rate models created for the direct-connection study resulted in up to a 0.98 R-squared value with slopes close to unity when plotting the calculated vs. measured metal release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical extraction of lithium from seawater/brine is receiving more and more attention because of its environment-friendly and energy-saving features. In this work, an electrochemical lithium extraction system with gas flushing of porous electrodes is proposed. We verified that the operation of multiple gas washes can significantly reduce the consumption of ultrapure water during the solution exchange and save the time required for the continuous running of the system. The water consumption of multiple gas flush operations is only 1/60 of that of a normal single flush to obtain a purity close to 100% in the recovery solution. By comparing the ion concentration distribution on the electrode surface in flow-through and flow-by-flow modes, we demonstrate that the flow-through mode performs better. We also verified the lithium extraction performance of the whole system, achieving a purity close to 100% and average energy consumption of 0.732 kWh∙kg−1 in each cycle from the source solution of the simulated Atacama salt lake water. These results provide a feasible approach for the large-scale operation of electrochemical lithium extraction from seawater/brine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive nitrate in water is harmful to the ecological environment and human health. Electrocatalytic reduction is a promising technology for nitrate removal. Herein, a Pd-Cu modified carbon nanotube membrane was fabricated with an electrodeposition method and used to reduce nitrate in a flow-through electrochemical reactor. The optimal potential and duration for codeposition of Pd and Cu were −0.7 V and 5 min, respectively, according to linear scan voltammetry results. The membrane obtained with a Pd:Cu ratio of 1:1 exhibited a relatively high nitrate removal efficiency and N2 selectivity. Nitrate was almost completely reduced (∼99 %) by the membrane at potentials lower than −1.2 V. However, −0.8 V was the optimal potential for nitrate reduction in terms of both nitrate removal efficiency and product selectivity. The nitrate removal efficiency was 56.2 %, and the N2 selectivity was 23.8 % for the Pd:Cu=1:1 membrane operated at −0.8 V. Nitrate removal was enhanced under acidic conditions, while N2 selectivity was decreased. The concentrations of Cl− ions and dissolved oxygen showed little effect on nitrate reduction. The mass transfer rate constant was greatly improved by 6.6 times from 1.14 × 10−3 m/h at a membrane flux of 1 L/(m2·h) to 8.71 × 10−3 m/h at a membrane flux of 15 L/(m2·h), which resulted in a significant increase in the nitrate removal rate from 13.6 to 133.5 mg/(m2·h). These findings show that the Pd-Cu modified CNT membrane is an efficient material for nitrate reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a confirmatory detection method for 19 sulfonamide drug residues in foods of animal origin, which were double-purified using dialysis, followed by capture on a sulfonamide affinity column, and detected and analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Samples were extracted with 80 % acetonitrile (0.2 % formic acid). Extracts were partially purified using dialysis, and sulfonamides were captured on a column (Speedy Prep®-Sulfa), then separated using an ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18 column. Gradient elution was carried out using a gradient of 0.2 % aqueous formic acid and methanol as the mobile phase. Mass spectrometry was performed using electrospray positive ion mode and multiple reaction monitoring modes. An external standard method was used for quantitative analysis. The results indicated that the sulfonamide capture column in this method could complete purification within 30 sec, and the entire pretreatment process required less than 10 min. The 19 sulfa drug concentrations were within their linear range (correlation coefficient r≥0.999 1), the limit of detection was 1.00*2.00 μg/kg, and the limit of quantification was 2.50~5.00 μg/kg. Pork, beef, eggs, shrimp, chicken skin, and pork liver were spiked at 5, 10, and 50 μg/kg, and average recovery ranged from 74.56% to 119.28%, with relative standard deviations (RSD, n=6) ranging from 0.91% to 14.16%, indicating good recovery and precision. The method described herein confers several advantages, including simple operation, high accuracy, excellent reproducibility, and suitability for quantifying sulfonamides in pork, beef, eggs, shrimp, chicken skin, and pork liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a theoretical analysis of optimum bed thickness operates under mass transfer control for realizing a high efficiency and reaction conversion of an electrochemical reactor has been made based on flowthrough porous electrode (FTPE) configuration. Many models have been used to represent the optimum bed thickness by taking a look into previous works concerned and collecting all related information, data, and models. The parameters that affect the optimum bed thickness have been visualized and reviewed, and almost all of them have been examined by experimental data from different sources and based on the various models. It has been found that the increase in electrolyte flow rate, concentration, limiting current density, and specific surface area reduce the optimum bed thickness, and the increase in electrolyte conductivity, void fraction, and overpotential range increases optimum bed thickness. The most important design parameter that has a great effect on optimum bed thickness is found to be the electrolyte flow rate for any certain operation. It has been concluded that the most appropriate two models to represent the optimum bed thickness of FTPE electrochemical reactor operating under mass transfer control based on the results are those predicted theoretically and stated by Kreysa in (1978) and Doherty et al. in (1996).

Abstract Background Complex lower limb reconstruction due to severe trauma remains a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. Here, we introduce a modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedure and evaluate its clinical efficacy. Methods Between January 2013 and December 2019, 22 patients (range 10 to 64 years old) with unilateral lower limb injury underwent modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedures. Among them, 16 cases were traffic accidents, 5 cases were persistent ulcers, and 1 case was a degloving injury. The arterial pedicle of the flap was prepared in a Y-shaped fashion and microanastomosed to the posterior tibial artery of intact leg in a flow-through style. A split-thickness skin graft was applied to wrap the vascular pedicle after anastomosis. The flap was designed in a single or bilobed fashion according to the shape of the tissue defect. The operation time, the intraoperative blood loss and the length of hospital stays were recorded. The vascular pedicle was divided 4 weeks after anastomosis. Doppler ultrasound was performed to evaluate the blood flow of the donor posterior tibial artery during postoperative follow-up. Results All 22 flaps survived. The tissue defects ranged from 12 × 6 to 21 × 18 cm2. The flap sizes ranged from 14 × 7.5 to 24 × 21 cm2. The average operation time, intraoperative blood loss and length of hospital stays were 6.73 ± 1.49 h, 280.95 ± 59.25 ml and 30.55 ± 2.52 days, respectively. Eighteen flaps were designed in a single fashion, while four were in bilobed fashion. Twenty patients underwent fasciocutaneous flap transplantations, while two underwent musculocutaneous flap transplantations. Two cases developed local lysis of the flap which healed after further debridement. Direct suture of the incision after flap harvest was performed in 16 cases, while additional full-thickness skin grafting was performed in the remaining 6 cases. Further bone transport procedures were performed in 15 patients who had severe tibia bone defects. The blood flow of donor posterior tibial artery was confirmed in all patients during follow-ups. All patients recovered flap sensation at the final follow-up. The postoperative follow-ups ranged from 18 to 84 months, and no long-term complications were observed. Conclusions The modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedure is an ideal method to repair severe lower limb trauma with tibial artery occlusion which avoids sacrificing the major artery of the uninjured lower limb.

The efficiency and stability of the electrical activation of persulfate (PS) by transition metal-based cathode are controlled by the cycling of Fe(III)/Fe(II) and the mass transfer of PS. In this study, the mixed-valence MOFs catalyst (FeII-MIL-53(Fe)) modified flow-through cathode was prepared for the first time. FeII-MIL-53(Fe) was prepared by replacing part of the iron-oxygen network structure in MIL-53(Fe) with Fe(II), resulting in the formation of coordinated unsaturated iron centers (CUICs). The increase of the Fe(III) CUICs facilitated the conversion of Fe(III) to Fe(II). Furthermore, the cycling of Fe(III)/Fe(II) was further promoted by the electric field. Meanwhile, the hydrodynamic behavior of flow-through cathode was indicated by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) results showed that several reactive specie (SO 4 ·-, ·OH, O 2 ·- and 1O 2) were produce. In summary, this work provided an effective strategy for the efficient and stable electrical activation of PDS. [Display omitted] • A novel FeII-MIL-53 (Fe) modified flow-through cathode was prepared. • The cycling of Fe(III)/Fe(II) was enhanced in the electrochemically activated PDS. • The mass transfer of PDS at flow-through cathode was clearly improved. • The designed electrochemical system exhibited excellent stability and reusability. • Free radicals were identified as the dominant active species for BPA degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cu/ZIF-8/Ag@Ti binder-free electrochemical sensing membrane is prepared. • Flow-through detection mode increases mass transfer. • High sensitivity and low detection limit can be achieved. • Electrochemical sensing membrane has excellent compatibility. To increase the sensitivity and decrease the detection limit, electrochemical sensing membrane under the flow-through detection mode with enhanced mass transfer during the electrochemical detecting process is developed in this study. The Cu/ZIF-8/Ag@Ti electrochemical sensing membrane with Cu/ZIF-8/Ag immobilized in Ti membrane pores has been fabricated and then as a novel sensor for sensing under the flow-through detection mode. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) indicates that the electron transport resistance can be reduced by 50 % with the flow rate of 1 mL min−1, compared with that of 0 mL min−1 (under conventional static mode). The limiting current analysis shows that the mass transfer coefficient of glucose increased by 18 % and the boundary layer thickness decreased by 15 %. The detection of glucose shows that the sensitivity increased from 3453 to 20,665 μA mM−1 cm−2, and the detection limit decreased from 0.26 to 0.04 μM. The Cu/ZIF-8/Ag@Ti sensing membrane under the flow-through mode has a well reliability of 88.6–110.9 % in real blood samples. In addition, the sensing membrane of MnO 2 @Ti for uric acid and Au/Ag@Ti for H 2 O 2 detection also shows high sensitivity and low detection limit under the flow-through detection mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respirometry is an important tool for understanding whole-animal energy and water balance in relation to the environment. Consequently, the growing number of studies using respirometry over the last decade warrants reliable reporting and data sharing for effective dissemination and research synthesis. We provide a checklist guideline on five key sections to facilitate the transparency, reproducibility, and replicability of respirometry studies: 1) materials, set up, plumbing, 2) subject conditions/maintenance, 3) measurement conditions, 4) data processing, and 5) data reporting and statistics, each with explanations and example studies. Transparency in reporting and data availability has benefits on multiple fronts. Authors can use this checklist to design and report on their study, and reviewers and editors can use the checklist to assess the reporting quality of the manuscripts they review. Improved standards for reporting will enhance the value of primary studies and will greatly facilitate the ability to carry out higher quality research syntheses to address ecological and evolutionary theories. [Display omitted] • Respirometry is a common tool for estimating energy expenditure and water loss. • Growing number of respirometry studies means a diverse range of reporting methods. • Standardised reporting offers several advantages for researchers, editors, and reviewers. • Increases precision and transparency of replicating studies to facilitate best practices. • Facilitate best practices for researchers and the quality of the science overall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the Fish Culture Research and Development Station Nucet, in 2011 were achieved studies and observations on the reproduction, sexual organs and seminal products of Oreochromis niloticus tropical species. A batch of 140 breeders of 1 year old Nile tilapia (T1) was stoked both in a pond as in Ewos tanks in two variants of density (VI) – 8 fish/tank, (VII) – 12 fish/tank. In a third variant were used 2 years old Nile tilapia breeders (T2), (VIII) – 4 fish/tank. The male/female ratio in all variants from tanks was 1:3. Independently, into another tank were stoked 20 males. Into the pond, spawning was achieved naturally, and on the tank variants, the eggs were gathered from the mouth of females and incubated in different incubation systems. On both rearing systems, under the climatic conditions from Nucet (south of Romania) were achieved 3 generations of Nile tilapia fry. On the female breeders, were determined: the gonad-somatic ratio, theoretical and adjective prolificacy (no. of eggs/g of ovary), and for males were achieved spermatozoa motility tests and determination of spermatozoa number per unit of volume.

This study adapts the biphasic OrganoCat system into a flow-through (FT) reactor, using a heated tubular setup where a mixture of oxalic acid and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MTHF) is pumped through beech wood biomass. This method minimizes solvent-biomass contact time, facilitating rapid product removal and reducing the risk of secondary reactions. A comparative analysis with traditional batch processes reveals that the FT system, especially under severe conditions, significantly enhances extraction efficiency, yielding higher amounts of lignin and sugars with reduced solid residue. Notably, the FT system shows partial hydrolysis of the cellulose, which increases with temperature while not producing significant amounts of furfural or 5-HMF, indicating more efficient depolymerization of polysaccharides without substantial sugar degradation. A statistical design of experiments (DOE) using a Box-Behnken design elucidates the influence of process variables (time, solvent flow rate, temperature) on the yield. Key findings highlight reactor temperature as the dominant factor affecting yields, with process time showing a significant but less pronounced impact. This study demonstrates the potential of the FT OrganoCat system for efficient lignocellulosic biomass fractionation and represents an advancement towards continuous lignocellulose processing, contributing to our knowledge of process optimization for improved biorefinery applications., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

High-pressure flow-through experiments on solid rock samples are commonly conducted with experimental setups using a confining pressure to restrict the flow to the rock. These setups are often spacious, costly, and difficult to replicate by other researchers due to their individual nature. This work presents the RESECO (resin sealed column) setup which allows flow-through experiments on solid rock without a confining pressure. The column setup is only slightly larger than the sample size and has material costs per sample of a few Euros. The fluid flow is confined to the rock by a cast of epoxy resin using a metal column as an outer casing. The functionality was verified by comparing experimental results with a conventional triaxial cell. Four different rock types with varying hydraulic properties were tested and proven compatible with the setup. Additional endurance tests were performed to investigate the physical limits with regard to pore pressure and temperature. The RESECO setup can be operated with pore pressures of at least 40 MPa and temperatures up to 95 °C, and is therefore suitable for many high-pressure, high-temperature experiments, while being easily reproducible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CoS 2 @Ni flow-through porous electrodes were prepared for OER. • Flow-through operation can shorten bubble growth time and reduce bubble size. • Overpotential for OER can be decreased by about 100 mV. • Energy required for hydrogen production reduced by 0.22 kWh/Nm3. Several CoS 2 /Ni flow-through porous electrodes are fabricated to promote gas bubble release for enhanced oxygen evolution reaction. Structural characterization shows that CoS 2 catalyst is immobilized on the porous Ni substrate. The bubble average diameter can be decreased from 29.21 ± 17.9 μm to 13.38 ± 5.05 μm, and the desorption time is decreased from 1.615 s to 0.067 s, with the electrolyte velocity increasing from 0 cm/s to 2.89 cm/s at the current density of 100 mA/cm2. A mathematical model is proposed to describe gas bubble growth, which is found that higher current density is not bring much bigger gas bubble. The overpotential of the CoS 2 /Ni electrode for OER is 498 mV at 100 mA/cm2. The overpotential of CoS 2 /Ni electrode can be decreased from 754 mV to 661 mV with the electrolyte velocity increase from 0 cm/s to 9.42 cm/s at 200 mA/cm2 with the energy required for hydrogen production reduced by 5.01 kWh/kmol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-Fenton (EF) technology has been recognized as a highly promising electrochemical advanced oxidation process. Promoting effective contact between active species and contaminant is crucial in electrocatalysis. Herein, we had innovatively designed a unique nanozymes in the form of hemp-ball-like structures, consist of the uniform growth of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles on nitrogen-doped nano hollow carbon spheres (NHCS). This catalyst was employed in a flow-through EF system with carbon felt (CF) filters serving as the work electrode. The active sites were fully exposed through the ultradispersed Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles, and the NHCS facilitated efficient cycling of Fe3+/Fe2+. The results showed that the generation capacity of hydroxyl radicals (·OH) was enhanced, and the oxidation flux reached 370.080 mg h−1m−2 with low energy consumption. The superiority of the hollow carrier was proved by the degradation results and COMSOL calculation for various carbon carriers. Moreover, the active catalyst exhibited adaptability in complex water matrices. This study offers a new perspective to synergize nanomaterials, EF reactions and flow-type systems. • A hemp-ball-like catalyst was fabricated with Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticle and nanoscale NHCS. • The different carbon supports was used to reveal the influence of structure. • COMSOL was used to reveal the mass transfer of the membrane interior. • NHCS-Fe 3 O 4 membrane exhibited exceptional performance and durability. • NHCS-Fe 3 O 4 membrane was high environmental adaption in the actual water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient electrosorption method in a self-made electrosorption device using 3D-o-NFCF as the adsorbent with high recyclability was developed. [Display omitted] • 3D o-NFCF used as the electro sorbent for Pt4+ uptake was achieved. • Self-designed instrument in a flow-through model was developed. • The high removal capacity of Pt4+ ions was 203 mg/g at 0.4 V. • In-situ regeneration of 3D o-NFCF was obtained after 7 recycles. • Capacitance of 3D o-NFCF greatly affect the adsorption performance. The extraction of the precious metal Pt4+ ions from aqueous solution are of great importance for both economic development and environmental protection. In this study, an electric field assisted adsorption process with high efficiency and recyclability was explored in a self-made device using three-dimensional (3D) flexible carbon felt (FCF) as the adsorbent without using conductive adhesive. Under the aid of an electric field (0.4 V), 3D pristine FCF (p-FCF) showed a considerable adsorption capacity for Pt4+ (82 mg/g). As high as 203 mg/g was obtained when o-NFCF adsorbents modified with N doping and surface oxygen-containing groups was used. Kinetic and thermodynamic studies show that the electric field would enhance the interactions between the adsorbent and Pt4+ ions, and improve the intraparticle diffusions. Mechanism study showed that the synergistic effect between N doping and oxygen-containing groups might efficiently tune the electrochemical properties of 3D FCF materials, which significantly contributed to the enhanced adsorption of Pt4+. The electroadsorption technology developed in this study provides a simple and efficient method for industrial recovery of precious metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Reporting Nanoparticle Tracers (RNTs) were developed to detect ambient conditions. • RNTs aim to enhance & expand data acquired in tracer tests of subsurface reservoirs. • RNTs performance is validated in tests simulating reservoir conditions. • In flow-through setups, RNTs performance is on-par with prevalent conservative tracers. • Temperature detection: Temperature-activated/unreacted RNTs are distinguishable. Characterization and monitoring of reservoir properties and conditions are key problems in the exploitation of subsurface aquifers and reservoirs, with tracer tests being an important tool that provides valuable insights into groundwater dynamics. The Reporting Nanoparticle Tracers (RNTs) approach was recently presented with the aim of expanding the scope of measureable parameters and the potential benefits of tracer tests in comparison to tests performed with traditional tracers. However, successful implementation of the concept depends on the ability of the nanoparticle tracers to exhibit a stable dispersion that facilitates sufficiently high recovery rates to allow for meaningful analysis. As a step forward toward the implementation of the approach, we used flow‑through studies with packed-bed quartz sand columns to compare the transport and retention properties of the RNTs with those of prevalent conservative molecular tracers and to show the feasibility of temperature detection. In the main experiments, the RNTs showed recovery rates around 80%, outperformed only by uranine (95 %) and surpassing eosin and sulforhodamine G (15 % and 50 % respectively). Thermally-activated RNTs could also be clearly differentiated from non-activated ones by a signal ratio difference of 50 %. These results validate the feasibility of application, especially considering the modularity of the nanoparticles, which enables adjustment of the RNTs to the hydrochemical conditions prevalent in the tested aquifer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical extraction of lithium from seawater/brine is receiving more and more attention because of its environment-friendly and energy-saving features. In this work, an electrochemical lithium extraction system with gas flushing of porous electrodes is proposed. We verified that the operation of multiple gas washes can significantly reduce the consumption of ultrapure water during the solution exchange and save the time required for the continuous running of the system. The water consumption of multiple gas flush operations is only 1/60 of that of a normal single flush to obtain a purity close to 100% in the recovery solution. By comparing the ion concentration distribution on the electrode surface in flow-through and flow-by-flow modes, we demonstrate that the flow-through mode performs better. We also verified the lithium extraction performance of the whole system, achieving a purity close to 100% and average energy consumption of 0.732 kWh∙kg−1 in each cycle from the source solution of the simulated Atacama salt lake water. These results provide a feasible approach for the large-scale operation of electrochemical lithium extraction from seawater/brine.

Background: Complex lower limb reconstruction due to severe trauma remains a challenge for reconstructive surgeons. Here, we introduce a modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedure and evaluate its clinical efficacy. Methods: Between January 2013 and December 2019, 22 patients (range 10 to 64 years old) with unilateral lower limb injury underwent modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedures. Among them, 16 cases were traffic accidents, 5 cases were persistent ulcers, and 1 case was a degloving injury. The arterial pedicle of the flap was prepared in a Y-shaped fashion and microanastomosed to the posterior tibial artery of intact leg in a flow-through style. A split-thickness skin graft was applied to wrap the vascular pedicle after anastomosis. The flap was designed in a single or bilobed fashion according to the shape of the tissue defect. The operation time, the intraoperative blood loss and the length of hospital stays were recorded. The vascular pedicle was divided 4 weeks after anastomosis. Doppler ultrasound was performed to evaluate the blood flow of the donor posterior tibial artery during postoperative follow-up. Results: All 22 flaps survived. The tissue defects ranged from 12 × 6 to 21 × 18 cm2. The flap sizes ranged from 14 × 7.5 to 24 × 21 cm2. The average operation time, intraoperative blood loss and length of hospital stays were 6.73 ± 1.49 h, 280.95 ± 59.25 ml and 30.55 ± 2.52 days, respectively. Eighteen flaps were designed in a single fashion, while four were in bilobed fashion. Twenty patients underwent fasciocutaneous flap transplantations, while two underwent musculocutaneous flap transplantations. Two cases developed local lysis of the flap which healed after further debridement. Direct suture of the incision after flap harvest was performed in 16 cases, while additional full-thickness skin grafting was performed in the remaining 6 cases. Further bone transport procedures were performed in 15 patients who had severe tibia bone defects. The blood flow of donor posterior tibial artery was confirmed in all patients during follow-ups. All patients recovered flap sensation at the final follow-up. The postoperative follow-ups ranged from 18 to 84 months, and no long-term complications were observed. Conclusions: The modified donor blood flow-preserved cross-leg anterolateral thigh flap procedure is an ideal method to repair severe lower limb trauma with tibial artery occlusion which avoids sacrificing the major artery of the uninjured lower limb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formic acid is an attractive solvent for the fractionation of lignocellulose for the production of biomaterials and chemicals, while the operation conducted in a batch manner is not conducive to mass transfer in separation process. In this research, eucalyptus was fractionated with formic acid/hydrochloric solution in a flow-through reactor at 95 °C, and the structural characteristics and the composition of fractionated lignin in different stages were investigated. Results showed that the fractionation efficiency was notably improved with a flow-through reactor, as evidenced by the low solid residue yield of 49.5% and the lignin removal rate of 79.4% as compared to the batch manner. During the fractionation process, the dissolution rate of lignin decreased gradually, and the obtained lignin samples showed low molecular weight (<3000), good uniformity (<2), and high thermal stability. The structure analysis showed that β-O-4, β-β, and β-5 linkages in lignin were degraded to varying degrees with increased time, and the degradation of G units was more severe than S ones. • Eucalyptus was fractionated in a flow-through reactor at 95 °C. • The fractionated lignin had a low contaminated carbohydrate content. • The lignin had a low molecular weight and great uniformity. • β-O-4, β-5 and β-β linkages in lignin were degraded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high cost of anode material and the limitation of liquid-mass transfer on anode surface in electrochemical advanced oxidation processes always restrict the removal efficiency of organics. To overcome the limitations, this study synthesized a low-cost Ti4O7 membrane electrode by simple sol-gel method, and developed a flow-through electrooxidation system based on Ti4O7 membrane electrode. The membrane electrode presented high crystallinity, high specific surface area (10.18 m²/g), concentrated pore sizes distribution (0.1-1 µm), and high oxygen evolution potential (2.2 V vs. SHE). Furthermore, compared with stirring conditions, the flow-through conditions could enhance the liquid-mass transfer on anode surface, resulting in a high tetracycline degradation efficiency (97.24%) and a low energy consumption (0.18 kWh/ gDOC). High degradation rates of tetracycline (more than 95%) were both observed with the initial tetracycline concentration ranged from 10 to 50 mg/L. The increase of pipeline pressure and current density had positive influence on tetracycline degradation. Hydroxyl radicals and sulfate radicals produced on the electrode surface are the main oxidants for tetracycline degradation. The degradation pathway of tetracycline included oxygenation, hydroxylation, demethylation, decarbonylation, ring-open, and C-N bond cleavage. Compared with materials prepared by conventional hot pressing and plasma spraying method, this simply synthesized Ti4O7 membrane electrode exhibited efficient oxidation capability and competitive electric cost for contaminants degradation, demonstrating its practicability, feasibility, and facilitation for the potential application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The high cost of anode material and the limitation of liquid-mass transfer on anode surface in electrochemical advanced oxidation processes always restrict the removal efficiency of organics. To overcome the limitations, this study synthesized a low-cost Ti 4 O 7 membrane electrode by simple sol-gel method, and developed a flow-through electrooxidation system based on Ti 4 O 7 membrane electrode. The membrane electrode presented high crystallinity, high specific surface area (10.18 m2/g), concentrated pore sizes distribution (0.1–1 µm), and high oxygen evolution potential (2.2 V vs. SHE). Furthermore, compared with stirring conditions, the flow-through conditions could enhance the liquid-mass transfer on anode surface, resulting in a high tetracycline degradation efficiency (97.24%) and a low energy consumption (0.18 kWh/gDOC). High degradation rates of tetracycline (more than 95%) were both observed with the initial tetracycline concentration ranged from 10 to 50 mg/L. The increase of pipeline pressure and current density had positive influence on tetracycline degradation. Hydroxyl radicals and sulfate radicals produced on the electrode surface are the main oxidants for tetracycline degradation. The degradation pathway of tetracycline included oxygenation, hydroxylation, demethylation, decarbonylation, ring-open, and C-N bond cleavage. Compared with materials prepared by conventional hot pressing and plasma spraying method, this simply synthesized Ti 4 O 7 membrane electrode exhibited efficient oxidation capability and competitive electric cost for contaminants degradation, demonstrating its practicability, feasibility, and facilitation for the potential application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow-through time resolved analysis (FT-TRA) involves subjecting small mineral samples (< 10 mg) inserted in a miniature flow-through cell (50 μL) to controlled flows of eluent analyzed on-line by ICP-MS. In this study, FT-TRA is used to empirically determine the dissolution regimes for the two well-studied minerals forsterite and calcite, representing minerals with relatively slow and fast dissolution kinetics. A proportional increase in steady-state effluent [Mg, Si] concentrations with increasing flow-through cell eluent residence times confirms a dominantly surface-controlled dissolution regime for a powdered forsterite sample at pH 2.3, implying that transport limitations are negligible. In contrast, the relationship between flow rates and dissolution rates for single grain calcite samples at pH 2.3-4 reveals that transport limitations affect the rate of calcite dissolution. To provide a quantitative and process-based assessment of the effect of diffusive transport limitations, simulations of the calcite experiments were performed with a high resolution, pore-scale model that considers the geometry of the calcite grain and the FT-TRA flow-through reactor. The pore-scale model reproduces the observed effluent [Ca] concentrations for all experimental conditions using a single set of surface kinetic parameters, by accounting for the formation of a diffusive boundary layer (DBL) that varies in thickness as a function of flow rates. These results demonstrate that combining FT-TRA with pore-scale modeling makes it possible to obtain unprecedented insights not achievable by either method separately, including quantification of DBL thicknesses and the determination of transport controls as a function of pH, flow velocity and residence times.

Flow-through time resolved analysis (FT-TRA) involves subjecting small mineral samples (< 10 mg) inserted in a miniature flow-through cell (50 μL) to controlled flows of eluent analyzed on-line by ICP-MS. In this study, FT-TRA is used to empirically determine the dissolution regimes for the two well-studied minerals forsterite and calcite, representing minerals with relatively slow and fast dissolution kinetics. A proportional increase in steady-state effluent [Mg, Si] concentrations with increasing flow-through cell eluent residence times confirms a dominantly surface-controlled dissolution regime for a powdered forsterite sample at pH 2.3, implying that transport limitations are negligible. In contrast, the relationship between flow rates and dissolution rates for single grain calcite samples at pH 2.3-4 reveals that transport limitations affect the rate of calcite dissolution. To provide a quantitative and process-based assessment of the effect of diffusive transport limitations, simulations of the calcite experiments were performed with a high resolution, pore-scale model that considers the geometry of the calcite grain and the FT-TRA flow-through reactor. The pore-scale model reproduces the observed effluent [Ca] concentrations for all experimental conditions using a single set of surface kinetic parameters, by accounting for the formation of a diffusive boundary layer (DBL) that varies in thickness as a function of flow rates. These results demonstrate that combining FT-TRA with pore-scale modeling makes it possible to obtain unprecedented insights not achievable by either method separately, including quantification of DBL thicknesses and the determination of transport controls as a function of pH, flow velocity and residence times.

In the pharmaceutical industry, a nondestructive and real-time monitoring method is a promising analytical technology to guarantee the quality of the manufactured products. This study develops a novel nondestructive monitoring method based on the terahertz time-domain attenuated total reflection spectroscopy (THz–ATR) system, which can be used for measuring the optical constants of liquids circulating over the surface of the ATR prism. We focused on controlling moisture content in ethanol, which is used as a solvent in the chemical reactions. In the pharmaceutical industry, even a small amount of water in the solvent may cause problems in chemical reactions during research for purposes such as drug discovery. A continuous and nondestructive monitoring method for the moisture content in the solvent is essential because general moisture measurements are destructively. Our results demonstrate that the moisture content of ethanol can be determined by monitoring the refractive index of the liquid in the THz range. In other words, a simple method that only monitors the THz absorption is sometimes inadequate for ethanol. The proposed system can successfully evaluate the ethanol concentration or moisture content continuously and nondestructively. This method is a promising solution for the real-time measurements of chemical reactions for quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, a hydrogen‐free one‐step catalytic fractionation of woody biomass using commercial β‐zeolite as catalyst in a flow‐through reactor was carried out. Birch, spruce, and walnut shells were compared as lignocellulosic feedstocks. β‐Zeolite acted as a bifunctional catalyst, preventing lignin repolymerization due to its size‐selective properties and also cleaving β‐O‐4 lignin intralinkages while stabilizing reactive intermediates. A rate‐limiting step analysis using different reactor configurations revealed a mixed regime where the rates of both solvolytic delignification and zeolite‐catalyzed depolymerization and dehydration affected the net rate of aromatic monomer production. Oxalic acid co‐feeding was found to enhance monomer production at moderate concentrations by improving solvolysis, while it caused structural changes to the zeolite and led to lower monomer yields at higher concentrations. Zeolite stability was assessed through catalyst recycling and characterization. Main catalyst deactivation mechanisms were found to be coking and leaching, leading to widening of the pores and decrease of zeolite acidity, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a certain number of mAbs, bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) and Fc-fusion proteins that we worked on, the Protein A capture step experienced low yield (i.e., ∼80%). A previous case study suggested that non-binding aggregate formed in cell culture was the root cause of low Protein A step yield. In the current work, we selected five projects with the low Protein A yield issue to further illustrate this phenomenon. In all cases, existence of non-binding aggregates was confirmed by size-exclusion chromatography-high performance liquid chromatography (SEC-HPLC) analysis of Protein A load and flow-through. In addition, we demonstrated that aggregates failed to bind to Protein A resin mainly due to their large sizes, which prevented them from entering the resin beads. As the data suggested, SEC-HPLC analysis of Protein A load and flow-through, although not a standard procedure, can provide information that is critical for understanding the unexpected performance of Protein A chromatography in cases like those being presented here. Thus, SEC-HPLC analysis of Protein A load and flow-through is highly recommended for antibodies/Fc-fusions suffering from low Protein A yield. • Low Protein A step yield has been observed for certain mAbs, bsAbs and Fc-fusions. • SDS-PAGE analysis of Protein A flow-through suggested abnormal binding in these cases but missed important information. • SEC-HPLC analysis of column load and flow-through revealed that poor Protein A performance was due to non-binding aggregates. • Aggregates failed to bind mainly due to their large sizes, which prevented the aggregates from entering the resin beads. • For projects experiencing low Protein A yield, SEC-HPLC analysis of load and flow-through is highly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different porous TiO x electrodes were synthesized for removing organic pollutants from water with a focus on the role of their porous structure on efficiency of electrocatalytic phenomena. In stirred-tank reactor, lower reaction rates were obtained using electrode with small pores (≈ 2.2 µm), while coarse roughness of electrodes with larger pores (≈ 100 µm) was beneficial. However, electrode with small pores allowed obtaining optimal mass transport in flow-through configuration. The reaction rate for degradation of 0.1 mM of terephthalic acid was 27 times higher compared to stirred-tank reactor. Reaction rates of electrodes with large pores were still limited from diffusion within pores and the reaction rate was divided by 2.8 at the optimal flux, compared to the electrode with small pores. A correlation was established between degradation yields, operating conditions and key characteristics of the porosity, which is crucial for the design of novel electrode materials with suitable porous structure. [Display omitted] • Effect of pore size structure in porous TiOx electrodes in electrooxidation • Comparison of degradation efficiency in stirred-tank and flow-through reactors • Significantly higher degradation rate of terephthalic acid in flow-through reactor • Establishment of a correlation between degradation yield and porosity characteristics [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Recent research in single and coupled processes in FTER with EAOPs was reviewed. • Potentials of FTER and its challenges in (waste)water treatment were discussed. • Fouling mitigation and membrane self-cleaning strategies were summarized. • The prospects for FTER reinforcement are highlighted. Adopting electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) in flow-through filtration systems will be an asset in achieving (waste)water treatment goals in the near future, owing to their simplicity of application, enhanced mass transfer, and low energy use. This review discusses the recent treatment of contaminants of emerging concern (CEC), influencing factors, benefits and challenges, and prospects for flow-through electrochemical reactors (FTER). The research effort has mainly driven the electrochemical oxidation (EO) methods to treat organic pollutants from synthetic wastewater in the past decade. However, FTER has revealed some limitations in a working system, suggesting the need for more experimental research and practical applications. The integrated processes and multi-stage electrochemical flow-through systems with novel materials development should exemplify an efficient and applicable method for (waste)water treatment. The establishment of the multi-stage flow-through systems efficiently reduces the overvoltage and prevents the difficulties associated with higher current, such as energy loss and high running costs. In addition, extensive research on hydrodynamic features and current distribution models should provide the residence time and current density across the system. Some studies on chloride-based electrolytes have shown that electrodes in FTER can prevent chloride conversion to chlorate and perchlorate at low current densities. However, one of the toughest challenges is reducing the production of these products during electrochemical processes. At least, the current status of the FTER operating process is thoroughly discussed and reflected upon. Then, prospects are presented to understand working mechanisms and maintaining systems. We believe that this review will furnish a worthy insight into the sustained application of FTER in environmental water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive fluid flow can control the mineralogical, mechanical and chemical evolution of the Earth's crust. When rocks are exposed to differential stresses (i.e., vertical stress ≠ horizontal stress ≠ pore-fluid pressure (Pf)) during reactive fluid flow, effective pressure is usually assumed to control the overall reaction process. Here, we show that fluid pressure can play an important role in mineral replacement reactions. We conducted experiments in which calcite (CaCO3) grains (fraction size 53–150 µm) reacted with a Mg-rich solution at ~ 200 °C both in a closed system and under reactive fluid flow conditions with different fluid flow rates and fluid pore pressures, but with similar confining pressure (σn = 10 or 20 MPa) and effective pressure (Pe). Under closed system, vapor-saturated pressures, the magnesite formed with large pores between the magnesite and the calcite. In the open system flow-through experiments, however, brucite (Mg(OH)2) or magnesite (MgCO3) formed, depending on pore-fluid pressure. The main reaction product was brucite at low pore-fluid pressure (0.2 MPa), but magnesite at higher pore-fluid pressures (≥ 1 MPa). Calcite dissolution and precipitation of the product mineral increased concomitantly with flow rate, but the flow rate did not affect the nature of the products. The permeability of the reacting rock was related to the reaction pathway, i.e. the nature of the products. Magnesite replaced the pristine calcite in a pseudomorphic manner, and mantled the pristine calcite with 10–100 µm wide pores. In contrast, tabular and/or platy brucite blocked the porosity and resulted in a decrease in permeability. Our results show that the pore-fluid pressure can be a significant parameter controlling the reaction products and reaction processes in volatile-rich (e.g., CO2, HCl, H2S and SO2) systems at conditions close to phase separation; these conditions occur for example in epithermal and porphyry hydrothermal systems, and in carbonate-replacement and some metamorphic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The redox flow battery is getting intense attention these days as one of the most promising systems to store energy generated from weather-dependent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energies. In this research, the geometry-related performance of the hydrogen–iron redox flow battery is analyzed with five different flow-field geometries (parallel, serpentine, crisscross, interdigitated, and porous) to determine the best geometry leading to the maximum cell power and fuel efficiency. Diffusion-dominant flow-by mode, convection-dominant flow-through mode, and the hybrid combining both modes are investigated in detail to understand the characteristic transport modes of reactive species and underlying flow physics. In particular, the effects of the flow geometries are analyzed with respect to system-based as well as cell-based performance. It is found that the best net power gain is achieved from the porous flow field, which has excellent fuel utilization and cell power with a low electrolyte supply rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an inexpensive autonomous underwater pumping system that is lightweight, compact, independent, and versatile, making it easy to deploy in a multitude of settings. This system can be used to pump water into discrete and flow-through sensor systems. With the exception of the custom built pressure case housing, this system can be fabricated with off-the-shelf parts, making it easier to maintain. This system uses open source Arduino software code for easier customization and operations. The electronics and battery pack used to power this system can be adapted to fit into commercially available pressure case housings.

For topically applied over-the-counter (OTC) products, the association of unwanted systemic exposure and adverse events may be difficult to ascertain without a recognition or determination of in vivo absorption. Evaluation of skin permeability using a validated in vitro permeation methodology can provide important information for both initial formulation selection and reformulation during the product life cycle. Additionally, a comparison of permeation rates between formulations using a validated methodology could reduce the number of nonclinical studies needed as part of reformulation. However, many in vitro permeation tests (IVPTs) have produced results with high variability and low reproducibility between study sites. It is unclear if this is due to a lack of a standardized protocol, or lack of control of multiple key experimental factors including skin source, preparation, receptor fluid, and study design. This review presents the authors perspective on the potential regulatory utility of IVPT and proposes steps to improve the accuracy and reproducibility of IVPT. The focus of this review is on topical dermatologic drugs with an initial emphasis on the OTC marketplace where reformulations are more common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • BioMnO x removes Mn(II) through adsorption and catalytic oxidation. • The chemical catalysis by BioMnO x makes a major contribution in Mn(II) removal. • Long-term Mn(II) removal by BioMnO x depends on MnOB. • MnOB can sustain BioMnO x in a high valence state. Biogenic manganese oxides (BioMnO x) can effectively remove Mn(II) from drinking water. In the gravity-driven membrane (GDM) system for Mn(II)-containing water treatment, both BioMnO x and Mn(II)-oxidizing bacteria (MnOB) present in the cake layer, and their role in Mn(II) oxidation is still controversial. To address this issue, in this study, we naturally formed a cake layer containing BioMnO x and MnOB using the GDM process and identified the different roles of BioMnO x and MnOB in the removal of Mn(II). The experimental results showed that the BioMnO x accounted for a major proportion of the cake layer of GDM, and it played a principal role in the removal of Mn(II) through the combination of adsorption and catalytic oxidation. However, this removal efficiency would be continuously reduced in the absence of MnOB, while stabilized in the presence of MnOB. XPS analysis revealed that the proportion of Mn(III) and Mn(IV) in BioMnO x with MnOB reached 64.1% and 35.8%, respectively, while BioMnO x without MnOB did not contain Mn(IV). These findings suggest that BioMnO x may be the primary catalyst for Mn(II) oxidation, but its long-term activity is dependent on MnOB, which can maintain the catalytic activity by 1) producing new BioMnO x and 2) sustaining the high valence state of MnO x. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]