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In this paper, the effect of zero-valent iron (Fe0) activated persulfate (PDS) on the removal of enrofloxacin (ENR) was investigated, and the effect and mechanism were analyzed by exploring the effects of Fe0 concentration, PDS concentration, pH, and the influence of anion and aqueous matrix on the removal of ENR by the Fe0/PDS system. The results showed that when [ENR] = 20 µmol/L, [Fe0] = 0.15 g/L, [PDS] = 0.4 mmol/L, the removal rate of ENR was 85.3% at 90 min, the mainradicals were HO•, SO4•− and O2•−. At the same time, the system had a good mineralization effect (TOC removal rate > 40%), in addition, the system did not show obvious toxicity to soil microorganisms after the reaction, furthermore the Fe0/PDS system had a good removal effect on ENR in a wide pH range (4 ≤ pH ≤ 10). There is basically no difference in the removal rate of Fe0/PDS system in ultrapure water and river water. The results of this experiment could provide a reference for the removal of antibiotics based on advanced oxidation techniques based on SO4•−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autoimmunity underlies many painful disorders, such as enthesopathies, which localize to the enthesis. From infiltration of the synovium and axial skeleton by B cells, to disturbances in the ratio of M1/M2 enthesis macrophages, to CD8 + T cell mediated inflammation, autoimmune dysregulation is becoming increasingly well characterized in enthesopathies. Tissue resident B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and T cells have also been localized in healthy human entheses. However, the potential developmental origins, presence, and role of immune cells (ICs) in enthesis development is not known. Here, we use single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis to describe IC subtypes present in the enthesis before, during, and after mineralization, and to infer regulatory interactions between ICs and mesenchymal cells (MCs). We report the presence of nine phenotypically distinct IC subtypes, including B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and T cells. We find that specific IC subtypes may promote MC-proliferation and differentiation, and that MCs may regulate IC phenotype and autoimmunity. Our findings suggest that bidirectional regulatory interactions between ICs and MCs may be important to enthesis mineralization, and suggest that progenitor MCs have a unique ability to limit autoimmunity during development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Shuangjianzishan deposit is a typical magmatic‐hydrothermal deposit located in the southern Great Xing'an Range. Recent investigations have identified significant copper and tin mineralization at depth within the Shuangjianzishan deposit; however, the coupling relationship between magmatic emplacement and mineralization processes remains debated. This study presents whole‐rock geochemistry, zircon LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb dating, and zircon Hf isotope analyses of granite from the northern Shuangjianzishan deposit. The analysis results indicate the granite crystallized between 252.3 and 257.9 Ma, corresponding to Late Permian magmatic activity. The granite displays ɛHf(t) = 5.95‐14.87, and tDM2 = 333–900 Ma. Geochemically, the granite is rich in Si and Al, with high K, classified as a calc‐alkaline, weakly peraluminous rock. LREEs are enriched, while HREEs are depleted, and a slight negative Eu anomaly, all of which are consistent with A‐type granite characteristics. The Hercynian granite in the Shuangjianzishan deposit formed during the latter or post‐collisional stages of the collision orogeny following the closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean in the late Paleozoic era. The material source indicates a mixed origin, involving both crust and mantle contributions. The granite is also enriched in Cu, Pb, and Zn, suggesting its potential role as an ore‐forming material source for the Shuangjianzishan deposit. This study proposes a potential link between Hercynian magmatism and mineralization at the Shuangjianzishan deposit for the first time, suggesting that multistage metallogenesis may be a response to successive magmatic events from Hercynian to Yanshanian periods in the mining area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

g-C3N4 layers with good mechanical properties, including their cohesion and adhesion to stainless-steel supports, were prepared by the quantitative electrophoretic co-deposition of g-C3N4 and WO3 nanocrystals. It was carried out in a mixture of organic solvents by applying a voltage of 750 V. The typical layer area density was 0.64 mg cm–2. The photocatalytic degradation of 4-chlorophenol under blue-light irradiation showed that the performance of stable composite layers containing 25–50 wt.% of WO3 was only slightly weaker than that of unstable pristine g-C3N4 ones. The high photocatalytic performance was due to g-C3N4, while WO3 contributed to a good mechanical resistance of layers in stirred water. Finally, the composite layers exhibited a very high 4-chlorophenol mineralization of 75% in 24 h, even higher than the corresponding suspensions. Owing to their stability in water and performance, the developed layers are suitable for applications in environmental technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is a kind of agricultural waste currently used as amendment, however, its remediation efficacy on heavy metal-contaminated soil has not been comprehensively evaluated. In this study, the effects of SMS and its compost (CSMS) on soil environment (including lead availability, physicochemical properties, nutrient content, enzyme activity, bacterial community) and plant growth (including germination, photosynthesis, and biomass) in lead-contaminated soil were investigated. Independent germination test and pot experiments of water spinach were carried out under 600 mg/kg lead contamination and 5% amendment dosage. The results showed that SMS increased the germination rate by 45.1% and CSMS decreased it by 60.9%. Both amendments enhanced the photosynthesis and increased the fresh weight of water spinach by more than 12.6% in polluted soil, but SMS had a negative effect on photosynthesis and decreased the fresh weight in unpolluted soil. The SMS and CSMS reduced soil lead availability and thus decreased the lead content of water spinach by more than 6.1%. SMS increased soil pH, while CSMS decreased it. CSMS increased soil conductivity, organic carbon, and available N more than SMS. Both amendments consistently and positively impacted on soil enzymes and bacteria. In conclusion, composting is beneficial to increase the available N of SMS, which prevents SMS from competing with plants for N during mineralization. However, CSMS should not be directly used in the sowing period, because its alkalinity and high salt content may inhibit seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demineralization of dental hard tissue imposes considerable health and economic burdens worldwide, but an optimal method that can repair both the chemical composition and complex structures has not been developed. The continuous development of nanotechnology has created new opportunities for the regeneration and repair of dental hard tissue. Increasingly studies have reported that nanomaterials (NMs) can induce and regulate the biomimetic mineralization of dental hard tissue, but few studies have examined how they are involved in the different stages, let alone the relevant mechanisms of action. Besides their nanoscale dimensions and excellent designability, NMs play a corresponding role in the function of the raw materials for mineralization, mineralized microenvironment, mineralization guidance, and the function of mineralized products. This review comprehensively summarizes the advantages of NMs and examines the specific mineralization mechanisms. Design strategies to promote regeneration and repair are summarized according to the application purpose of NMs in the oral cavity, and limitations and development directions in dental hard tissue remineralization are proposed. This review can provide a theoretical basis to understand the interaction between NMs and the remineralization of dental hard tissue, thereby optimizing design strategy, rational development, and clinical application of NMs in the field of remineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superabsorbent hydrogels (HGs) are three-dimensional, polymeric networks that have been shown to increase soil water holding capacity, but little is known about their effect on nitrogen (N) transformations in soil. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of two types of HGs (polyacrylate (TS) or cellulose-based (H30)) applied as soil amendment on pH, urea hydrolysis, nitrification, NH3 volatilization, and soil respiration in two soils receiving urea or ammonium sulfate. Separate studies with each HG in each of two soils (four studies) were conducted with an acidic sandy loam collected in Georgia (USA) and a basic sandy loam collected in the Veneto region of Italy. The results showed that the addition of TS increased the pH of the acidic soil, whereas H30 did not have a major effect on soil pH in either soil. In the acidic soil receiving urea, H30 increased nitrification, whereas TS decreased initial nitrification. Neither HG affected urea hydrolysis, N immobilization and NH3 volatilization in either soil, but both HGs increased soil respiration in the basic soil, possibly due to HG degradation by microorganisms. These results show that the use of HGs together with N fertilizers may affect soil pH, nitrification, and respiration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photodegradation and deadhesion of mussel-inspired polydopamine was reported from nanoscale disassembly to effective mineralization. Various PDA coated templates and PDA hollow structures can be photodegraded by this strategy. The patterned and gradient surfaces were prepared by the "top-down" method under the control of light scope and intensity, respectively. [Display omitted] Mussel-inspired polydopamine (PDA) coating has been utilized extensively as versatile deposition strategies that can functionalize surfaces of virtually all substrates. However, the strong adhesion, stability and intermolecular interaction of PDA make it inefficient in certain applications. Herein, a green and efficient photocatalytic method was reported to remove adhesion and degrade PDA by using TiO 2 -H 2 O 2 as photocatalyst. The photodegradation process of the PDA spheres was first undergone nanoscale disassembly to form soluble PDA oligomers or well-dispersed nanoparticles. Most of the disassembled PDA can be photodegraded and finally mineralized to CO 2 and H 2 O. Various PDA coated templates and PDA hollow structures can be photodegraded by this strategy. Such process provides a practical strategy for constructing the patterned and gradient surfaces by the "top-down" method under the control of light scope and intensity. This sequential degradation strategy is beneficial to achieve the decomposition of highly crosslinked polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detergents and disinfectants for dairy industry must meet a variety of characteristics, including low toxicity, high antibacterial activity, and excellent rinsing of pollutants from working surfaces. This work presents an innovative detergent-disinfectant agent based on whey mineralizate and silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), which allows reducing production costs and ensuring high cleanliness of treated surfaces compared to analogues. For this purpose, a method for obtaining sols of Ag NPs stabilized with didecyldimethylammonium bromide (Ag NPs-DDAB) was developed and optimized using neural network algorithms. Characterization of Ag NPs-DDAB showed particles with a radius of 4.5 nm and 20 nm, stable in the pH range from 2 to 11. An acute toxicity study of Ag NPs in mice showed LD50 = 4230 μg/kg. Based on the degree of accumulation and inhalation toxicity, Ag NPs-DDAB are classified as low-hazard chemicals. The developed detergent-disinfectant had a washability of about 90%, high antimicrobial activity (0.005 mg/mL) against Penicillium roqueforti and a sanitary and hygienic effect on coliforms, general contamination and pathogenic microorganisms, a low-corrosive effect and low toxicity (315 mg/mL) to Danio rerio. It was concluded that the use of detergent-disinfectant agent will completely eliminate the consumption of water for the equipment cleaning process and can be used to clean an electrodialysis unit's circuits, enabling the utilization of secondary waste from membrane milk processing and promoting resource efficiency and cleaner production in the dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: N rhizodeposition plays a vital role in regulating rhizosphere soil N dynamics. However, its effects on the rhizosphere soil N cycle in clonal plants and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. Methods: 15N solutions with different concentrations were injected into young or connected mature ramets of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), respectively, in the field, to explore the response of rhizosphere N transformation to N rhizodeposition. Results: 15N injection increased the 15N abundance in the rhizosphere soil of both young and mature ramets, with higher 15N abundance in 20–40-cm layer than that in 0–20-cm layer. Functional genes involved in nitrification and denitrification in the rhizosphere were upregulated when young ramets received low- and medium-N solutions. However, the genes showed diverse responses to high-N treatment in young ramets, with increased abundances of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and decreased levels of ammonia-oxidizing archaea, comammox, and denitrifiers. In contrast, the functional genes involved in denitrification in the 20–40-cm layer of rhizosphere soil were upregulated by high-N treatment in mature ramets. Additionally, partial-least-squares path modeling revealed 15N abundance in the soil indirectly affected N mineralization, N mineralization directly affected nitrification, and nitrification directly affected denitrification in a positive manner. Conclusion: The variations of N rhizodeposition and transformation process in both connected ramets is highly consistent in responding to different N treatments, but the nitrifiers and denitrifiers in the deeper rhizosphere soil were more sensitive to N rhizodeposits than those in the upper rhizosphere soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The application of cover crop residue is an important means in managing paddy soil. This study was to investigate the influences of minerals on the mineralization of organic matter and the community and necromass of microbes in paddy soils amended with cover crop residue. Methods: 13C-labelled cover crop residue (Astragalus sinicus L.) was prepared using a pulse labeling method. The mineralization of cover crop residue and native soil organic matter and the community and necromass of microbes in two flooded paddy soils amended with or without illite, goethite and ferrihydrite was investigated by incubation experiments. The released CO2/CH4 was analyzed by gas chromatography. Amino sugar was used as the biomarker of microbial residue carbon. Soil microbial communities were analyzed by high-throughput sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: Illite, goethite and ferrihydrite significantly decreased the amounts of both CO2 and CH4 emissions from native soil organic carbon in both paddy soils. Moreover, the inhibition efficiency followed the same sequence of ferrihydrite > goethite > illite for both CO2 and CH4 emissions. However, ferrihydrite significantly stimulated the mineralization of cover crop residue in both paddy soils. The examined minerals, especially ferrihydrite, also tended to decrease bacterial and fungal abundance and diversity in both paddy soils. Moreover, the contents of both bacterial and fungal residue carbon were significantly decreased by the examined minerals in alkaline paddy soil. Conclusion: Examined minerals tended to decrease total mineralization of cover crop residue and native organic matter, the microbial abundance, diversity, and necromass in flooded paddy soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrusion-hosted gold deposits within the Birimian terrane in Ghana have become attractive targets for exploitation. However, similarities between intrusion-related gold deposits (IRGDs) and orogenic gold deposits (OGDs) generally result in misclassification of these deposits. This paper reviews the literature on gold deposits hosted in intrusions of the Birimian terrane of Ghana, and in addition applies multivariate statistics of geochemical data, to ascertain their classification. The host intrusions can be linked to the two different magmatic pulses (2179 ± 2 to 2136 ± 10 Ma) and (2125 ± 2 to 2088 ± 1 Ma) that intruded the volcanic belts and sedimentary basins, respectively. Intrusion emplacement and gold deposition in the Birimian of Ghana are products of large-scale compressional to transpressional activity, the Eburnean tectonothermal event (ca. 2.1 Ga). Mineralization within sedimentary basin-type intrusions is concomitant with intrusion emplacement, while volcanic belt-type intrusions significantly predate mineralization. Low salinity (< 10 wt % NaCl equivalent), reduced fluids with H2O–CO2-rich and minor methane (CH4) and nitrogen (N2) compositions are responsible for gold emplacement at crustal depths of 4–6 km. The trapping temperature and pressure for hydrothermal fluids usually range between 180 and 350 °C and between 1 and 3 kbar, respectively. Trace element geochemistry has revealed anomalous concentrations of granophiles in some of the deposits and consistent low base metal concentrations associated with gold. The tectonic setting of the deposits, among other factors, aligns the intrusion deposits to the OGDs. Nonetheless, after analysing the distinguishing attributes of the deposits, it cannot be disregarded that magmatic fluids play a role in the overall hydrothermal fluid budget. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution in ecosystems has increased, especially in water, due to the pollutant agents that alter their chemical, physical and biological characteristics. This requires actions to resolve or at least reduce the harmful effects generated on the environment and people's health. Many of the contaminants present in water come from the industrial sector, with the textile industry being one of the most impactful as it uses mostly synthetic dyes, which are characterized as being recalcitrant and toxic, so they cannot be degraded by conventional water treatment methods. Advanced oxidation processes have a great potential for application, especially those that use heterogeneous photocatalysis. The present research evaluates the efficiency in the adsorption and degradation of the triazoic Direct Blue 71 dye in aqueous mediums at concentrations of 600 ppm by the heterogeneous photocatalysis method. The photocatalysts used are layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with a Mg/Al = 3 ratio and are thermally activated and doped with Fe at 1, 3 and 5% w/w. The most efficient materials achieved removal percentages greater than 80% by means of a second-order kinetic model with a DB71 half-life decolorization of less than one hour; as shown by an HPLC study, the absence of intermediate products would confirm the mineralization of the dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex environmental conditions at Cr-contaminated sites, characterized by uneven ion distribution, oxidants competition, and limited solid-phase mobility, lead to inadequate mixing of Fe-based reducing agents with Cr, posing significant challenges to the effectiveness of Cr remediation through Cr-spinel precipitation. This study investigates the distinct roles of Fe(II), Fe(III), and Cr(III) in Cr-spinel crystallization under ambient temperature and pressure. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy were employed to elucidate the phase composition, microstructure, and ion coordination within the precipitates. Our findings indicate that Fe(II) acts as a catalyst in the formation of the spinel phase, occupying octahedral sites within the spinel structure. Under the catalytic influence of Fe(II), Fe(III) transitions into the spinel phase, occupying both the tetrahedral and the remaining octahedral sites. Meanwhile, Cr(III), due to its high octahedral site preference energy, preferentially occupies the octahedral sites. When Fe(II) or Fe(III) is present but does not meet the ideal stoichiometric ratio, a deficiency in Fe(II) leads to low yield and poor crystallinity of Cr-spinel, whereas a deficiency in Fe(III) can completely inhibit its formation. Conversely, when either Fe(II) or Fe(III) is in excess, the formation of Cr-spinel remains feasible. Furthermore, metastable Cr phases can be transformed into stable Cr-spinel by adjusting the Fe(II)/Fe(III)/Cr(III) ratio. These results highlight the broad range of conditions under which Cr-spinel mineralization can occur in environmental settings, enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms driving Cr-spinel formation in Cr-contaminated sites treated with Fe-based reducing agents. This research provides critical insights for optimizing Cr remediation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral prospectivity mapping (MPM) is crucial for efficient mineral exploration, where prospective zones are identified in a cost-effective manner. This study focuses on generating prospectivity maps for hydrothermal polymetallic mineralization in the Feizabad area, in northeastern Iran, using unsupervised anomaly detection methods, i.e., isolation forest (IForest) and deep isolation forest (DIF) algorithms. As mineralization events are rare and complex, traditional approaches continue to encounter difficulties, despite advances in MPM. In this respect, unsupervised anomaly detection algorithms, which do not rely on ground truth samples, offer a suitable solution. Here, we compile geospatial datasets on the Feizabad area, which is known for its polymetallic mineralization showings. Fourteen evidence layers were created, based on the geology and mineralization characteristics of the area. Both the IForest and DIF algorithms were employed to identify areas with high mineralization potential. The DIF, which uses neural networks to handle non-linear relationships in high-dimensional data, outperformed the traditional decision tree-based IForest algorithm. The results, evaluated through a success rate curve, demonstrated that the DIF provided more accurate prospectivity maps, effectively capturing complex, non-linear relationships. This highlights the DIF algorithm's suitability for MPM, offering significant advantages over the IForest algorithm. The present study concludes that the DIF algorithm, and similar unsupervised anomaly detection algorithms, are highly effective for MPM, making them valuable tools for both brownfield and greenfield exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonate rocks are highly reactive and exhibit higher ratios of chemical weathering compared to most other rock types. A chemo-mechanical mechanism, which is particularly effective in groundwater due to higher ion concentrations, is common in fine-grained carbonates at the nanoscale. As a result, the weathering of carbonate aquifers produces a substantial number of carbonate nanoparticles (CNPs). In this study, we utilized high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) to analyze CNPs formed by water–rock reactions in two types of groundwater from Shandong Province, China. Our findings reveal a significant presence of naturally occurring CNPs in groundwater. The HRTEM results show that CNPs display spherical, cubic, hexagonal, and irregular shapes, with some forming aggregates. Energy-dispersive spectrometry indicates that most nanoparticles contain O, C, Ca, and Fe, with some also containing Si, Mg, S, Sr, and Cl. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns show that CNPs are mainly amorphous, with some crystalline forms. The diverse shapes and complex compositions of these CNPs suggest that they are not man-made but formed through the weathering of carbonate minerals via chemo-mechanical mechanisms. This discovery provides new insights into carbonate mineral evolution and mineralization during weathering. Given their widespread presence, CNPs in groundwater could represent the transportation of elements in the form of particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population growth and expanding urbanization have caused persistent shortages and contamination of groundwater resources in Mali, Africa. The increase in groundwater salinity makes it more difficult for residents to obtain drinking water, it is necessary to clarify the causes and control factors of groundwater mineralization in Gao region, northern Mali. Based on the analysis of the hydrochemical composition of groundwater in 24 boreholes, Piper and Schöeller diagrams, principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) are used to carry out multivariate statistical analysis on the main ions. The results show that the groundwater samples are weakly alkaline, with pH values ranging from 5.83 to 8.40, and the average values of boreholes are 7.50, respectively. The average electrical conductivity (EC) value is 354.4 (µS/cm), and the extreme value is between 124.0 and 1 247 (µS/cm). Water is usually mineralized and presents nine types of water phase. The three principal components explain 84.42% of the total variance for 13 parameters. The factor F1 (58.85%), the factor F2 (16.88%) and the factor F3 (8.69%) present for the majority of the total data set. In addition, multivariate statistical analysis confirmed the genetic relationship among aquifers and identified three main clusters. Clustering related to groundwater mineralization (F1), clustering related to oxide reduction and iron enrichment (F2), and clustering of groundwater pollution caused by nitrate and magnesium (F3). We found that agriculture, weathering activities and dissolution of geological materials promote the mineralization of groundwater. Groundwater quality in the Gao region is becoming less and less potable because of increasing salinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Southwestern Ghana, groundwater is highly needed for several uses, including drinking, domestic, agricultural, and socioeconomic activities. Groundwater mineralization is usually controlled by natural processes and anthropogenic activities. The mineralization processes and other latent processes can render groundwater unsuitable for human usage. Thus, there is a need for continuous assessment of groundwater. This study aimed to assess the controls of groundwater mineralization in 105 sample stations within the Southwest of Ghana using pollution indexing, hydrochemical, multivariate statistical, and multiple linear regression (MLR) modeling. The tests for physicochemical characteristics followed standard methods. The ionic concentrations of the samples were within acceptable limits, except for nitrate in some locations. The hydrochemical analyses revealed that the water types predominated in the order of Ca–HCO3 > Mg–HCO3 > Ca–Cl > Mg–Cl > Na–HCO3 > Na–Cl. It was also indicated from selected proxies, discriminant diagrams, and multivariate statistical analyses that silicate mineral dissolution and evaporation–crystallization processes are the main controls of the mineralization in the research area. Also, the mineralization processes were noted to be facilitated by the deep and long residence time of groundwater within aquifers. The extent of contamination and suitability of the groundwater for human consumption were evaluated using percentage of pollution index (PPI) and groundwater pollution index (GPI). Their results suggest that 75% of the samples were highly–very highly polluted. The MLR models excellently predicted the relationships between the groundwater quality parameters. They also indicated that the PPI and GPI were mostly influenced by Ca2+, Cl−, HCO3−, F−, and HCO3− concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The handheld nonthermal plasma (HNP) treatment may alter the surface properties, bone metabolism, and inflammatory reactions of polyaryletherketone (PAEK) dental implant materials. This study tested whether the HNP treatment might increase the biocompatibility, surface hydrophilicity, surface free energies (SFEs), and the cell adhesion and mineralization capability of PAEK materials. Disk-shaped samples of titanium (Ti), zirconia (Zr), polyetheretherketone (PEEK [PE]), and polyetherketoneketone (PEKK [PK]) were subjected to HNP treatment and termed as TiPL, ZrPL, PEPL, and PKPL, respectively. Water-surface reactions were examined using a goniometer. MG-63 cells were cultured on all samples to assess the cell viability, cytotoxicity, cell attachment, and mineralization characteristics. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6) and key mineralization markers (alkaline phosphatase [ALKP], osteopontin [OPN], and dentin matrix protein 1 [DMP1]) was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. The HNP-treated samples exhibited significantly enhanced surface hydrophilicities and SFEs compared to the untreated samples. The cell viability remained high across all samples, indicating no cytotoxic effects. The HNP treatment significantly enhanced MG-63 cell adherence and proliferation. Elevated levels of ALKP and OPN were observed for the plasma-treated PEPL and PKPL specimens, while DMP1 levels increased significantly only in the PKPL specimen. Pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were low across all samples, suggesting no inflammatory response. The HNP-treated PAEKs have enhanced the surface hydrophilicity and SFEs as well as superior cell adhesion and mineralization capability, and thus may be good clinical dental implant materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External root resorption is a main side effect of orthodontic treatment and is more likely to occur on the pression side than the tension side. To explore the potential protective mechanisms on the tension side, this study investigated the influence of mechanical tension on cementoblast mineralization and elucidated the role of autophagy in mediating this process. Mechanical tension was applied to cementoblasts using iStrain. The expression of mineralization-related and autophagy-related markers was detected by qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence staining. RNA sequencing identified key regulators. Immunohistochemical staining assessed related markers expression in in vivo experiments. Applying tension to cementoblasts increased mineralization-related gene expression in a force-dependent and time-dependent manner. The immunohistochemical staining result of in vivo experiments supported these findings, demonstrating elevated expression of mineralization markers under tension. Mechanical tension also enhanced autophagic activity in cementoblasts, which was demonstrated by the results of qRT-PCR, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, and in vivo experiments. Suppression of autophagy with chloroquine attenuated the mineralization of cementoblasts induced by tension stimulus. RNA-seq identified Postn as a key regulator, and the knockdown of Postn impaired the mechanical tension-promoted mineralization of cementoblasts. This study proposed the tension-induced promotion in mineralization of cementoblasts and emphasized the mediating role of autophagy in this process. Postn, a mediator connecting autophagy and mineralization, was identified as a key regulator. These discoveries helped elucidate orthodontic-related microprocesses on tooth roots and offer potential targets for therapeutic interventions to prevent and restore external root resorption clinically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cover cropping is a common practice among organic growers, well-known for its potential to supply nitrogen (N) to subsequent cash crops. Uncertainties and challenges exist in understanding how cover crops interact with soil properties and management practices across organic farms to supply N, and if such N supply is synchronous with subsequent cash crop N demand. An on-farm study examined cereal rye (Secale cereale) versus crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) planted before corn (Zea mays L.) in five organic farms in Michigan with a range of soil properties and management practices. High quality crimson clover residue [Carbon (C):N ratio 15:1] was associated with higher soil inorganic nitrogen, corn chlorophyll content, tissue N content, and grain yields relative to low quality cereal rye residue (C:N ratio 25:1). There were several lines of evidence that low quality cereal rye residue coupled with substantial biomass and a dry season limited N release during peak corn N demand. Nitrogen uptake efficiency (NUE, ratio of total N removed by corn to total N input) was above 1 for corn farms with low soil organic matter (SOM), active N and C pools, and lower than 1 for farms with high SOM and active N and C pools. Overall, cover crop biomass and cover crop quality was a more important driver of corn performance than background SOM content in organic corn farms. Our research highlights the challenges of ensuring sufficient N supply in organic field production, and the importance of planting a legume cover crop before corn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Geomechanics is the property of Journal of Geomechanics Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Polyethylene mulching film, which is widely utilized in arid and semi-arid agriculture, leaves residual pollution. A novel approach to addressing this issue is microbial degradation. To screen the strains that degrade polyethylene efficiently and clarify the effect of degrading strains on the turnover of soil organic carbon, a polyethylene-degrading fungus PF2, identified as Trichoderma asperellum, was isolated from long-time polyethylene-covered soil. Strain PF2 induced surface damage and ether bonds, ketone groups and other active functional groups in polyethylene, with 4.15% weight loss after 30 days, where laccase plays a key role in the degradation of polyethylene. When applied to soil, the Trichoderma-to-soil weight ratios were the following: B1: 1:100; B2: 1:200; B3: 1:300 and B4: 1:400. Trichoderma asperellum significantly increased the cumulative CO2 mineralization and soil organic carbon mineralization in the B1 and B2 treatments compared with the control (B0). The treatments B1, B3 and B4 increased the stable organic carbon content in soil. An increase in the soil organic carbon content was observed with the application of Trichoderma asperellum, ranging from 27.87% to 58.38%. A positive correlation between CO2 emissions and soil organic carbon was observed, with the soil carbon pool management index (CPMI) being most correlated with active organic carbon. Trichoderma treatments improved the CPMI, with B3 showing the most favorable carbon retention value. Thus, Trichoderma asperellum not only degrades polyethylene but also contributes to carbon sequestration and soil fertility when applied appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper investigates the photodegradation of Malachite Green (MG) using a new composite of river sediment (Sd) and synthesized TiO2 (Sd-TiO2-X%). TiO2 powder was synthesized using the sol–gel method and catalyst composites Sd-TiO2-X% (X = 10%, 15%, and 20%) were obtained using the wet impregnation. The photocatalytic performance of the composites was investigated using Box–Behnken design and results in the optimal parameters of %TiO2 (%) = 19.73, [MG] (ppm) = 42.25, and pH 9.58. Furthermore, Sd-TiO2-20% demonstrated exceptional stability and performance after undergoing five cycles. The scavenging tests for free radicals strongly confirmed the activity of superoxide ions (O2⋅−) and hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) as the primary species responsible for degrading MG. The findings highlight the synergetic effect between river sediment and TiO2 in the photodegradation of organic pollutants-contaminated wastewater. This confirms the potential of valorizing sediments for promising and sustainable depollution applications using sediment-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineralization of emerging contaminants by using advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) is a desirable option to ensure water safety, but still challenged by the excessive chemical and/or energy input. Here, we conceptually proposed the tandem reaction system (TRS) of different reactive oxygen species (ROS) based on structure adaption of target contaminants. To construct a model TRS, we first realized highly selective generation of three classical ROS (1O2, HO⋅ and SO4⋅−) by peroxymonosulfate activation in an electrochemical Fenton‐like system, where three replaceable Fe‐centered cathodes were rationally designed as electronic mediator. The 1O2+SO4⋅−‐TRS exhibited nearly 100 % mineralization of sulfamethoxazole (SMX), whereas only 34.2 %, 56.2 % and 60.8 % for each of the single 1O2/HO⋅/SO4⋅−‐AOP systems. Mechanism exploration of SMX degradation in TRS evidenced that the initial reaction with 1O2 selectively destructed the sulfonamide bridge of SMX to form p‐aminobenzenesulfonic acid, which will be vulnerable to sequent SO4⋅− attack to facilitate mineralization. Successful extendibility of 1O2+SO4⋅−‐TRS to other sulfonamide antibiotics and 1O2+HO⋅‐TRS to phenolic and arylcarboxylic compounds, as well as the demonstration of 1O2+SO4⋅−‐TRS in treatment of three actual pharmaceutical wastewaters strongly support that TRS is a powerful and sustainable strategy to enhance the mineralization of emerging contaminants in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bisphosphonates (BPs) are widely used to inhibit excessive osteoclast activity. However, the potential to compromise bone defect healing has limited their broader application. To better understand the influence of BPs on bone regeneration, we established a bone grafting model with Zoledronate administration, aiming to deepen the understanding of bone remodeling and mineralization processes. Methods: A bone grafting model was established in the distal femurs of male Sprague–Dawley rats. The experimental group received systemic administration of Zoledronate (ZOL, 0.2 mg/kg, administered twice). Histological analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were employed to assess osteoblastic and macrophage activity, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to evaluate osteoclastogenesis. Mineralization was assessed through Micro-CT analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and back-scatter scanning electron microscopy (BSE-SEM). Additionally, the in vitro effects of ZOL on osteoblast and osteoclast activity were investigated to further elucidate its impact on bone regeneration. Results: In vivo, the ZOL group showed increased bone mass, as observed in histological and radiological assessments. However, Micro-CT, Raman spectroscopy, and BSE-SEM detection revealed lower mineralization levels in ZOL group's regenerated bone. Acid-etched SEM analysis showed abnormal osteocyte characteristics in ZOL-group's regenerated bone. Simultaneously, elevated osteopontin (OPN), F4/80 expression along with reduced TRAP expressing was found in the grafting region of ZOL group. In vitro, ZOL did not negatively impact osteogenetic activity (ALP, BMP4, OCN expression) at the tested concentrations (0.02–0.5 g/ml) but significantly impaired mineralization and inhibited osteoclast formation, even at the lowest concentration. Conclusions: This study highlights a less recognized negative effect of ZOL on bone mineralization during bone regeneration. More research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic additions help improve soil biophysical qualities, but they are insufficient to supply nutrient demand and could result in unintentional nutrient immobilization in soils, particularly soils with low fertility status. A 16-week laboratory incubation study was conducted to determine how the method of application of compost and inorganic fertilizers influence microbial respiration, nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) mineralization. Topsoil (500 g, 0–15 cm) was amended with compost (0, 5, and 10 g kg−1) and either inorganic N (50 kg N ha−1) or P (30 kg P ha−1). Two soil amendment strategies, applying compost and inorganic fertilizer separately to opposite sides of the soil using a divider and mixing them evenly throughout the soil, were compared for their effects on microbial activity and nutrient mineralization. The cumulative amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) evolved were measured fortnightly using the static CO2 absorption method and inorganic N and P mineralization. N mineralization was unaffected by the method of compost and inorganic fertilizer application (p >.05), while at the end of day 42, available P in separate applications of compost and mineral N fertilizers was 33% greater than combined applications. Compost and inorganic P fertilizer had favorable N priming effects, but compost and inorganic N had negative effects. The different N priming effects of compost and inorganic N and P fertilizers may be attributable to microbial nutrient demand. The data suggest that composting with conventional fertilizers may change microbial nutrient demand and crop nutrient availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays an important role in maintaining or increasing soil fertility and quality in paddy field, but there is limited information about how SOC mineralization responds to different fertilizer managements under the double-cropping rice system in southern China. Therefore, this study was designed to explore changes in SOC content, soil enzyme activities, SOC mineralization at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers, and its relationship with long-term fertilizer managements in a double-cropping rice system of southern China. The experiment included four fertilizer treatments: chemical fertilizer alone (CF), rice straw and chemical fertilizer (RS+F), 30% organic manure and 70% chemical fertilizer (OM+F), and without fertilizer input as a control (Con). These results showed that SOC and labile organic carbon contents at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers in paddy field with RS+F and OM+F treatments were increased, compared to CF and Con treatments. Compared with Con treatment, SOC mineralization rate and accumulation with CF, RS+F, and OM+F treatments were increased. SOC accumulation and potential mineralization at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm layers with RS+F and OM+F treatments were increased, compared with CF and Con treatments. SOC mineralization rate and accumulation at 0–10 cm layer with CF, RS+F, OM+F, and Con treatments were higher than that of 10–20 cm layer. These results indicated that soil invertase, cellulose and urease activities in paddy field with RS+F and OM+F treatments were significantly higher than that of CF and Con treatments. There was a significant positive relationship between SOC accumulation and SOC content, soil invertase, cellulose, urease activities but were significant negative correlated with soil pH, bulk density. As a result, these were beneficial practices for improving SOC content and SOC mineralization in a double-cropping rice field of southern China by combined application of rice residue or organic matter with chemical fertilizer managements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) offers a viable solution to reduce the carbon footprint in the petroleum industry, and foam injection presents a promising method to achieve this while simultaneously increasing oil recovery. In this work, we studied the feasibility of CO2 foam for co-optimizing enhanced oil recovery and CO2 storage in a high-salinity carbonate formation. The simulated hydrodynamic model is a depleted formation containing 30% residual oil, with three mechanisms for CO2 storage: solubility, residual, and mineralization trapping mechanisms. The results showed that after 20 years, oil recovery during foam injection was 2.7 times higher than CO2 injection, and the CO2 stored during foam flooding was 38% higher than CO2 injection. Notably, foam injection also increased CO2 storage capacity by 2.6 times, indicating the potential to store around 2 gigatons of CO2 in the simulated model. This was attributed to the ability of foam to significantly reduce gas mobility and thus form isolated bubbles through its Jamin effect. Residual trapping was the dominant trapping mechanism, contributing to over 70% of the total CO2 trapped, attributed to the reduction in the dissolution of CO2 in brine due to the high salinity of the aqueous medium. CO2 mineralization was also studied, showing the least trapping efficiency and the dissolution trend of all the carbonate minerals. This study illustrates a novel CO2 utilization and storage technique in which CO2 is concurrently sequestered while enhancing oil recovery in a depleted oil reservoir by injecting CO2 as foam. The relevance of this study lies in its potential to provide a dual benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and boosting oil production, offering a sustainable approach for the petroleum industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The repair of hierarchical osteochondral defects requires complex gradient reconstruction at different levels, with continuous‐gradient mineralization being crucial. Strategies for achieving continuous‐gradient mineralization have rarely been reported. Here, a continuous‐gradient mineralized hydrogel is prepared using simple gravitational osmosis of a ≈2 nm amorphous calcium phosphate nanocluster (ACPC) suspension into composite organic frameworks for osteochondral regeneration. During gravitational infiltration, ACPC underwent gradual mineralization, resulting in the spontaneous formation of hydroxyapatite (HAP). The continuous‐gradient mineralized hydrogel aligned closely with the normal osteochondral structure, thereby effectively promoting repair of the cartilage and subchondral bone. In the cartilage layer, organic compounds improved the oxidative stress environment induced by injury and complemented the extracellular matrix of the cartilage. In the subchondral bone layer, HAP from the continuously mineralized hydrogel induced intracellular calcium accumulation in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), activating calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase 2 (CaMK2) and promoting osteogenic differentiation of MSCs through the calcium signaling pathway. Ultimately, compared with the nongradient hydrogel, this innovative gradient mineralization method exhibited significantly enhanced regeneration capabilities for osteochondral defects, as evidenced by metrics, such as bone volume/tissue volume (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), and trabecular number (Tb.N). This holistic strategy provides hope in the field of osteochondral repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periarticular calcifications are a common condition for rheumatologists. They are characterized by deposition of carbonated apatite in tendons or connective tissues around joints. It most commonly affects patients between 30 and 60, and the main location is the shoulder (rotator cuff tendons), followed by the hip. Although the disease is frequent, factors associated with the appearance of the deposits or their spontaneous resorption remain unclear. In this review, we will summarize the available data about mechanisms underlying the constitution of the deposits and their resorption and describe the various affected sites and the associated symptoms. In the last part, we will discuss current treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic digestion is a biological process that transforms high-strength organic effluents into biogas with multiple benefits. However, concurrent with organics' biological transformation, a liquid phase with a high solid content is also derived from this process. Valorizing this fraction is not an easy task if an agronomic application cannot be considered as a suitable option. The thermal valorization of this fraction allows for energy extraction but also gives rise to additional capital investment and increases the energy demand of the global process. In addition, the thermal treatment of digestate has to deal with a mineralized material. The changes in organic matter due to anaerobic digestion were studied in the present manuscript, by evaluating the thermal behavior of samples, activation energy, and organic transformation using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Digested samples of a mixture composed of manure and glycerin (5% v/v) were studied. The stabilization caused a dramatic decrease in aliphatic compounds, greatly increasing the mineral content of the sample. Results from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated an energy content of 11 kJ/g for the feed material and a reduction to 9.6 kJ/g for the long-term stabilized sample. The activation energy of the feed was 249.5 kJ/mol, whereas this value was reduced to 70–80 kJ/mol for digested samples. If the valorization route selected for digestates is thermal conversion, the lower energy content and more complex structure of these materials (higher content of lignin and protein-type compounds) must be carefully evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) Pb-Zn deposits are a subtype of sedimentary-hosted mineralization. These deposits are hosted by carbonate sequences in passive-margin tectonic settings. This paper uses the Fry technique and distance distribution analysis to model the spatial distribution pattern of MVT Pb-Zn deposits in the west of Semnan province (Iran) and their association with some geological features, aiming at mapping mineral prospectivity in the area. The modeling results reveal that NE–SW trending faults and Permian-Cretaceous dolomites and limestone are, respectively, major structural and lithological controlling factors of mineralization that operate as conduits and physicochemical subsystems of ore formation. The integration of the corresponding evidence maps of the controlling factors with a model of the geochemical signature of MVT Pb-Zn deposits through a supervised random forest approach, a machine learning technique, gains an exceptional prospectivity map predicting 100% of the known MVT Pb-Zn deposits in only 15% of the study area, which is an achievement. The recognized targets can be planned for further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Dashigou deposit is one of the most representative carbonatite-type Mo-REE deposits in the East Qinling metallogenic belt of China, with a molybdenum resource of more than 180 kt and a rare earth resource of 37.8 kt. Recent exploration has revealed a considerable scale of uranium mineralization within this deposit. Therefore, this study conducted detailed mineralogical and EPMA U-Th-Pb chemical dating on the uranium mineralization in the Dashigou deposit. The results indicate that the U-ore body in the Dashigou deposit mainly consists in carbonatite veins, and principally as anhedral, mesh-like uraninite. The mineral assemblage is characterized by uraninite + rutile + bastnasite + parisite or brannerite. The uraninite displays geochemical compositions of high Y and Ce and low Si, Ti, and Mg. The EPMA U-Th-Pb chemical dating is 144 ± 3.1 Ma, representing the Yanshanian uranium mineralization age in the region. The newly discovered uranium mineralization age indicates that the deposit experienced a uranium remobilization event during the Cretaceous and was formed in an intracontinental orogenic and extensional environment post-collision orogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shijia Gold Deposit is a quartz vein-type gold deposit located in the northern part of the Qixia - Penglai - Fushan Metallogenic Belt. The mineralization process can be broadly divided into 4 stages: quartz pyrite stage (1), gold-quartz - pyrite stage (II), gold quartz polymetallic sulfide stage (III), and quartz carbonate stage (IV). The salinity of the ore-forming fluid ranges from 1.83% to 10.74%, with a density of 0.61-0.90 g/cm³, indicating low salinity and low-density fluids. The mineralization temperature is between 275 °C and 325 °C, with fluid pressures ranging from 50 MPa to 92 MPa, and a mineralization depth of 1.673.07 km. The comprehensive characteristics reveal that this deposit is a medium-temperature hydrothermal vein-type gold deposit controlled by steeply dipping extensional faults in the upper part of a granite dome, with mantle-derived fluids, magmatic fluids, and meteoric water jointly contributing to the mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While many studies note the positive effects of soil organic matter (SOM) on crop yields, there is limited quantitative information on the influence of increased SOM on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) productivity in sandy soil. This study estimated the impact of varying SOM on potato productivity in sandy soils and explored whether nitrogen (N) mineralization served as a primary mediator. Soil from nine fields in Wisconsin (SOM range of 1.1%–3.8%) was collected for a greenhouse study. Both NH4-N and NO3-N extracted from ion strips and potentially mineralizable nitrogen (PMN) were used as the proxies for N mineralization. Linear mixed effect models indicated that fresh matter whole biomass and dry matter vine biomass were 0.45 and 0.54 times greater at 3.8% SOM compared to 1.1% SOM at an optimal soil pH of 5.2, respectively. Similarly, total N uptake in the whole and vine biomass was 0.51 and 1.0 times higher at 3.8% SOM than 1.1% SOM, respectively. While PMN demonstrated a positive correlation with SOM, it only partially mediated the effect of SOM on productivity, specifically in N uptake in the vines. However, for most productivity measures, including PMN with SOM in the models did not substantially reduce the estimated SOM effect on productivity, indicating that SOM affected productivity mostly through mechanisms other than N acquisition by plants available through mineralization of OM. The study underscored the complex interplay between SOM and potato productivity, urging further research into the multifaceted roles of SOM in sandy soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stromal stem cells (MSCs) or skeletal stem cells (SSCs) play a major role in tissue repair due to their robust ability to differentiate into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Complex cell signaling cascades tightly regulate this differentiation. In osteogenic differentiation, Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and ALP activity are essential. Furthermore, during the latter stages of osteogenic differentiation, mineral formation mediated by the osteoblast occurs with the secretion of a collagenous extracellular matrix and calcium deposition. Activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2), an important transcription factor against oxidative stress, inhibits osteogenic differentiation and mineralization via modulation of RUNX2 function; however, the exact role of NRF2 in osteoblastogenesis remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that NRF2 activation in human bone marrow‐derived stromal cells (HBMSCs) suppressed osteogenic differentiation. NRF2 activation increased the expression of STRO‐1 and KITLG (stem cell markers), indicating NRF2 protects HBMSCs stemness against osteogenic differentiation. In contrast, NRF2 activation enhanced mineralization, which is typically linked to osteogenic differentiation. We determined that these divergent results were due in part to the modulation of cellular calcium flux genes by NRF2 activation. The current findings demonstrate a dual role for NRF2 as a HBMSC maintenance factor as well as a central factor in mineralization, with implications therein for elucidation of bone formation and cellular Ca2+ kinetics, dystrophic calcification and, potentially, application in the modulation of bone formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of catalysis by VO2+, Cr3+, Cr2O72–, Mn2+, MnO4–, Fe3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Ce3+, BrO3–, or IO3– ions of oxalic acid oxidation reaction with ozone in strongly acidic aqueous solutions at pH 0.3–1.7 has been studied. The final product of the oxidation is carbon dioxide. The kinetic regularities of the reaction have been determined from the rates of ozone consumption and carbon dioxide release. Without a catalyst, oxalic acid does not interact with ozone. It has been found that Mn2+, MnO4– and Co2+ ions are effective catalysts, while the catalytic effect of VO2+, Cr3+, Cr2O72–, Fe3+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Ce3+, BrO3–, or IO3– is weak or does not manifest itself at all. The effects of acidity and concentrations of the catalyst in solution and ozone in the gas phase on the kinetics of the process have been studied. Kinetic schemes of catalytic reactions and leading intermediates are proposed. The data obtained will help in choosing the optimal conditions for the process of oxidative mineralization of oxalic acid under the action of ozone in strongly acidic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. The casein composition, salt composition, and micelle size varies substantially between milk samples of individual animals. In goats, the links between those casein characteristics are unknown and could provide useful insights into goat casein micelle structure. In this study, the casein and salt composition of 42 individual Dutch goats from 17 farms was studied and linked to casein micelle size. Micelle size, the proportions of individual caseins, and protein content were associated with one another. Milk with smaller casein micelles was higher in protein content, salt content, and proportion of α s1 -CN, but lower in α s2 -CN and β-CN. The higher salt content in milk with small casein micelles was mainly attributed to a higher protein content, but changes in casein composition might additionally contribute to differences in mineralization. The nonsedimentable casein content in goat milk correlated with nonsedimentable fractions of β-CN and κ-CN and was independent of micelle size. Between large and small casein micelles, goat casein micelles showed more differences in casein and salt composition than bovine micelles, indicating differences in internal structure. Nevertheless, the casein mineralization in goat milk was similar to casein mineralization in bovine milk, indicating that mineralization of casein micelles follows a general principle. These results can help to better understand how composition and micelle structure in goat milk are related to each other, which may be useful to improve processing and product properties of goat milk in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chondrocyte hypertrophic differentiation is a main event leading to articular cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis. It is associated with matrix remodeling and mineralization, the dynamics of which is not well characterized during chondrocyte hypertrophic differentiation in articular cartilage. Based on an in vitro model of progressive differentiation of immature murine articular chondrocytes (iMACs) into prehypertrophic (Prehyp) and hypertrophic (Hyp) chondrocytes, we performed kinetics of chondrocyte differentiation from Prehyp to Hyp to follow matrix mineralization and remodeling by immunofluorescence, biochemical, molecular, and physicochemical approaches, including atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy associated with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), attenuated total reflection infrared analyses, and X-ray diffraction. Chondrocyte apoptosis was determined by TUNEL assay. The results show the formation of a mineral phase 7 days after Hyp induction, which spreads within the matrices to form poorly crystalline carbonate-substituted hydroxyapatite after 14 days, then the proportions of crystalline relative to amorphous content increases over time. Hyp differentiation also induced a matrix turnover that occurs over the first 7 days, characterized by a decrease in type II collagen and aggrecan and the concomitant appearance of type X collagen. This is accompanied by an increase in the enzymatic activity of MMP-13, the main collagenase in cartilage. The number of apoptotic chondrocytes slightly increased with Hyp differentiation and SEM–EDS analyses detected phosphorus-rich structures that could correspond to apoptotic bodies. Our findings highlight the mechanisms of matrix remodeling events leading to the mineralization of articular cartilage that may occur in osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the first isotopic U–Pb study data (LA–ICP–MS method) of zircon from intrusive rocks of the Molo-Sarychat pluton situated along the deep-seated fault system of the "Nikolaev Line" in the eastern Kyrgyzstan. The intrusive rocks from this pluton belong to the high-potassic calc-alkaline to shoshonitic series. Intense Mo(–W–Cu–Au) (mainly molybdenum-porphyry) mineralization is spatially and genetically associated with this pluton. Together with the other Au, W and Cu deposits and occurrences, this mineralization is part of the extended metallogenic belt of Tien Shan; however, occurrences of molybdenum-porphyry mineralization are still rare in this belt. The concordant isotopic U–Pb ages of zircon autocrysts indicate the crystallization of quartz monzonite (293.3 ± 4.2 Ma) and monzogranite (286.6 ± 2.4 Ma) in the Early Permian. Zircon antecrysts dated at 306–320 Ma are also present. The crystallization age obtained corresponds to a post-collisional epoch of the development of this territory but the presence of the antecrysts expands the pluton emplacement to the Late Carboniferous-Early Permian, which, as a result, spanned over initially subduction-related and then post-collisional tectonic settings. Correspondingly, a post-collisional setting of the Mo(–W–Cu–Au) (molybdenum-porphyry) mineralization is established; it is related to the pluton studied and was formed after the emplacement of quartz monzonite (early stage) and monzogranite (late stage). Significant enrichment in Mo can be related to its progressing accumulation during magmatic differentiation causing the emplacement of quartz monzonite and especially monzogranite. These processes occurred under the more mature post-collisional tectonic regime, with possible formation of intermediate magma chambers in the Paleoproterozoic metamorphic rocks and ancient granitoids. The age dates determined for rocks from the Molo-Sarychat pluton are similar to those identified for the igneous and metasomatic rocks of the large Kumtor gold deposit that is also associated with the "Nikolaev Line." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Te–Bi bearing minerals are commonly present in many hydrothermal gold deposits and can provide important physicochemical constraints on their mineralization. The gold mineralization in the Xiejiagou gold deposit is hosted in the Mesozoic Linglong granite and consists of auriferous quartz veins and subordinate disseminated ores in the vein-proximal alteration zone. Three types of pyrite were identified that formed in stage I, II, and III. Gold occurs mostly as native gold and electrum (Ag > 20 wt.%) inclusions in or filling microfractures in pyrite. The abundant auriferous pyrite-quartz veins contain an assemblage of tsumoite and hessite. The tsumoite occurs as irregular inclusions in the Py1 and is intergrown with the chalcopyrite. The hessite occurs as irregular inclusions or along the margins of the Py2, and it coexists with the gold and galena. The tellurium fugacity continually decreased from stage I (log fTe2 = −8.8 to −10.7) to stage III (log fTe2 = −13.8 to −17.0). The sulfur fugacity increased from stage I (log fS2 = −8.6 to −11.4) to stage II (log fS2 = −7.2 to −11.4), and then, it decreased from stage II to stage III (log fS2 = −9.8 to −13.0). These data indicate the conditions of the gold precipitation during the ore formation process. A detailed study of gold distribution in texturally different pyrite and the paragenetic association of tellurides provide valuable information on the distribution pattern of gold and in understanding the processes of gold deposition and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel methodology to obtain 3D printable BiVO 4 precursor scaffolds (3DM-BiVO 4) via robocasting, showing excellent periodicity, shape retention, and mechanical stability, is disclosed for the first time. The ceramic pastes (solids at 70 wt.-%) comprised of BiVO 4 precursor, SiO 2 NPs, and a solution of deionized water: ethylene glycol (volume ratio 1:2, DI water: EG) exhibited enhanced rheology for the 3D printing of self-supported structures (3DM-BiVO 4). The thermal treatment induced a monoclinic scheelite phase, and the ethylene glycol contributed to achieving a unique square flake-like particle morphology. 3DM-BiVO 4 scaffolds were used as reusable monolithic photocatalysts, showing 72% acetaminophen mineralization at 240 min and pH = 9. This innovative approach opens avenues for designing 3D printable ceramic pastes, offering potential applications in tailoring-made monolithic photocatalyst fabrication by using SiO 2 NPs as an inorganic binder. [Display omitted] • 3D printable BiVO4 pastes by DIW using SiO2NP as a ceramic binder and DI water:ethylene glycol as solvents. • 3DM-BiVO4 scaffolds with periodicity, excellent shape retention, mechanical stability, and self-supporting were achieved. • Ethylene glycol promotes morphologies of square flake-like particles comprised of small peanut-like BiVO4 particles. • 3DM-BiVO4 exhibited good photocatalytic activity for acetaminophen mineralization. • 3DM-BiVO4 photocatalyst can be easily recovered and reused several times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Clarence Stream intrusion-related gold deposit is hosted within metasedimentary and metavolcanic sequences of the Ordovician Cookson and Silurian Mascarene groups that were intruded by several phases of the Late Silurian to Early Devonian Saint George Plutonic Suite. Based on geochemical and geochronological data, the intrusive rocks in the deposit are categorized into three distinct suites, including gabbroic, granitoid, and Whittier Ridge Granite (WRG). The gabbroic suite is the same as the East Branch Brook metagabbro intrusion, which exhibits a subalkaline mafic composition fractionated from a depleted mantle in a suprasubduction zone setting. The granitoid suite shows the same geochemical characteristics and age as the metaluminous to slightly peraluminous Magaguadavic Granite and its fractionated phases. The WRG suite reflects characteristics of calc-alkaline, metaluminous to peraluminous I-type granites in the area, such as Sorrel Ridge and Mount Douglas granitic plutons. In situ U-Pb zircon geochronology yielded an age of 419.5 ± 3.8 Ma for a monzodiorite from the gabbroic suite. Porphyritic granite and alkali granite from granitoid suite yielded U-Pb zircon age of 402.4 ± 1.8 Ma and 394.3 ± 3.8 Ma, respectively. Geochronologic data from the WRG suite reflect two different crystallization ages of 383.8 Ma (382.4 ± 3.1 to 385.1 ± 4) and 372.4 Ma (367.4 ± 1.3 to 377.1 ± 1.9). Several pieces of evidence demonstrate that the gold mineralizing events occurred after the emplacement of the East Branch Brook metagabbroic dykes and are linked to the various intrusive phases of the nearby syntectonic Early Devonian Magaguadavic Granite. The absence of gold and sulphide mineralization in felsic dykes related to the WRG confirms that this plutonic body formed adjacent to the gold zones after the main gold mineralizing event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermediate sulfidation epithermal deposits represent significant reservoirs of precious metals, playing a crucial role in global mining operations. The Anatolian Peninsula, predominantly characterized by relatively young (Tertiary) lithologies, hosts numerous occurrences of epithermal base and precious metal mineralization. Within the realm of research in Northeastern Anatolia, several hydrothermal alteration zones have emerged as indicators of concealed epithermal mineralization, with the Bahçecik mineralization standing out as a recent focal point. The Bahçecik mineralization represents an intermediate sulfidation epithermal Au-Ag system, hosted by Late Cretaceous andesitic rocks, as well as Eocene dacitic lava and tuffs. Employing U-Pb LA-ICP-MS zircon dating of the dacitic host rocks, the mineralization is estimated to have occurred during the Lutetian epoch (43.61 ± 0.35 Ma) or later. The genesis of the Bahçecik deposit is believed to be linked to postcollisional regional extensional tectonics, primarily controlling its structural arrangement. Comprising pyrite, chalcopyrite, low-Fe sphalerite, galena, tetrahedrite/tennantite, enargite-luzonite, and gold-silver minerals, the deposit is accompanied by prominent gangue minerals such as Mn- and Ca-carbonates, quartz, and barite. Microprobe measurements have identified a majority of Au-Ag minerals (krennerite, buckhornite, and nagyagite) closely associated with sulphide minerals. Fluid inclusion data reveal that mineralization and fluid transportation occurred at temperatures ranging from 153 to 327°C, with solutions exhibiting salinity levels consistent with those of intermediate sulfidation deposits (1.7–7.3 wt.% NaCl). This study unequivocally classifies the Bahçecik mineralization as an intermediate sulfidation deposit, contrary to the conclusions drawn in previous research. Moreover, our investigation has unveiled the presence of a substantial ore resource, totalling 7.84 million tons, featuring 1.76 g/t Au and 2.24 g/t Ag. As an intermediate-type deposit, it shares characteristics with other subtypes within the epithermal class, bridging the realms of both high and low sulfidation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key metals important for the green energy transition concentrate during magmatic-hydrothermal processes. In porphyry deposits, epithermal mineralization can overprint earlier higher-temperature systems. It is not well understood whether mineralization occurs in a single evolving system or forms during pulsed, episodic overprinting events. The timing and duration of fluid flow therefore remain key data gaps in deposit models, but they are essential factors for understanding metal (re)mobilization and concentration processes. Carbonates are common gangue minerals that precipitate during fluid flow and can be dated using the U-Pb method, thereby directly dating hydrothermal processes. Here, 41 new U-Pb dates from a fault-controlled porphyry-epithermal system in Yukon, Canada, reveal a >50 m.y. record of carbonate precipitation between ca. 77 and 19 Ma. Results support a model of pulsed, episodic fluid flow, rather than a single evolving system, where epithermal carbonate precipitation at ca. 74–67 Ma was both coeval with and significantly postdated Cretaceous porphyry-related magmatism. Overprinting events at ca. 62–56 Ma, ca. 51–47 Ma, and younger than 40 Ma were not responsible for primary metal deposition but may have contributed to metal enrichment. Carbonate dates coincide with periods of brecciation and fault slip. Fault movement therefore enabled episodic overprinting by epithermal mineralization, mobilizing and (re)concentrating metals. This comprehensive reconstruction of a long-lived magmatic-hydrothermal system tracks the transition from porphyry to epithermal environments, demonstrating the power of carbonate U-Pb dating for critical minerals research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated groundwater in the central Rif region of northern Morocco by analysing 55 water sampling points to assess its physicochemical and hydrogeochemical properties. Through hydrochemical analysis, GIS spatial exploration, and multivariate statistical analysis, a direct correlation was found between EC, TDS, and major ions, influencing overall water mineralization. The key findings included pH levels ranging from 6.10 to 8.52, EC from 828 to 4581 μS/cm, and varying concentrations of Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, HCO2–, Cl–, N–NO2–, and SO42–. Notably, TDS and TH ranged from 647.19–3609.36 mg/L and 64.23–1051.24 mg/L, respectively, with a significant portion of samples exceeding WHO guidelines, particularly chloride (61.81%), sulfate (92.72%), and nitrate (12.72%) samples. The Piper diagram highlights sodium chlorides (Na–Cl) as the predominant chemical facies (70.9%), while the Gibbs diagram emphasizes the impact of evaporation on water chemistry dynamics. This study revealed the complex influence of geological and anthropogenic factors on groundwater quality, potentially leading to seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers. The observed high mineralization and hardness levels, in addition to mild alkalinity, pose public health risks, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and sustainable management practices in coastal groundwater management to protect human health and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]