Mineralogy of mine waste at the Vermont Asbestos Group mine, Belvidere Mountain, Vermont

USGS Publications Warehouse

Levitan, D.M.; Hammarstrom, J.M.; Gunter, M.E.; Seal, R.R.; Chou, I.-Ming; Piatak, N.M.

2009-01-01

Samples from the surfaces of waste piles at the Vermont Asbestos Group mine in northern Vermont were studied to determine their mineralogy, particularly the presence and morphology of amphiboles. Analyses included powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and Raman spectroscopy. Minerals identified by XRD were serpentine-group minerals, magnetite, chlorite, quartz, olivine, pyroxene, and brucite; locally, mica and carbonates were also present. Raman spectroscopy distinguished antigorite and chrysotile, which could not be differentiated using XRD. Long-count, short-range XRD scans of the (110) amphibole peak showed trace amounts of amphibole in most samples. Examination of amphiboles in tailings by optical microscopy, SEM, and EPMA revealed non-fibrous amphiboles compositionally classified as edenite, magnesiohornblende, magnesiokatophorite, and pargasite. No fibrous amphibole was found in the tailings, although fibrous tremolite was identified in a sample of host rock. Knowledge of the mineralogy at the site may lead to better understanding of potential implications for human health and aid in designing a remediation plan.

Improvement of efficient in vitro regeneration potential of mature callus induced from Malaysian upland rice seed (Oryza sativa cv. Panderas).

PubMed

Mohd Din, Abd Rahman Jabir; Iliyas Ahmad, Fauziah; Wagiran, Alina; Abd Samad, Azman; Rahmat, Zaidah; Sarmidi, Mohamad Roji

2016-01-01

A new and rapid protocol for optimum callus production and complete plant regeneration has been assessed in Malaysian upland rice (Oryza sativa) cv. Panderas. The effect of plant growth regulator (PGR) on the regeneration frequency of Malaysian upland rice (cv. Panderas) was investigated. Mature seeds were used as a starting material for callus induction experiment using various concentrations of 2,4-D and NAA. Optimal callus induction frequency at 90% was obtained on MS media containing 2,4-D (3 mg L(-1)) and NAA (2 mg L(-1)) after 6 weeks while no significant difference was seen on tryptophan and glutamine parameters. Embryogenic callus was recorded as compact, globular and light yellowish in color. The embryogenic callus morphology was further confirmed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. For regeneration, induced calli were treated with various concentrations of Kin (0.5-1.5 mg L(-1)), BAP, NAA and 0.5 mg L(-1) of TDZ. The result showed that the maximum regeneration frequency (100%) was achieved on MS medium containing BAP (0.5 mg L(-1)), Kin (1.5 mg L(-1)), NAA (0.5 mg L(-1)) and TDZ (0.5 mg L(-1)) within four weeks. Developed shoots were successfully rooted on half strength MS free hormone medium and later transferred into a pot containing soil for acclimatization. This cutting-edge finding is unique over the other existing publishable data due to the good regeneration response by producing a large number of shoots.

Improvement of efficient in vitro regeneration potential of mature callus induced from Malaysian upland rice seed (Oryza sativa cv. Panderas)

PubMed Central

Mohd Din, Abd Rahman Jabir; Iliyas Ahmad, Fauziah; Wagiran, Alina; Abd Samad, Azman; Rahmat, Zaidah; Sarmidi, Mohamad Roji

2015-01-01

A new and rapid protocol for optimum callus production and complete plant regeneration has been assessed in Malaysian upland rice (Oryza sativa) cv. Panderas. The effect of plant growth regulator (PGR) on the regeneration frequency of Malaysian upland rice (cv. Panderas) was investigated. Mature seeds were used as a starting material for callus induction experiment using various concentrations of 2,4-D and NAA. Optimal callus induction frequency at 90% was obtained on MS media containing 2,4-D (3 mg L−1) and NAA (2 mg L−1) after 6 weeks while no significant difference was seen on tryptophan and glutamine parameters. Embryogenic callus was recorded as compact, globular and light yellowish in color. The embryogenic callus morphology was further confirmed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. For regeneration, induced calli were treated with various concentrations of Kin (0.5–1.5 mg L−1), BAP, NAA and 0.5 mg L−1 of TDZ. The result showed that the maximum regeneration frequency (100%) was achieved on MS medium containing BAP (0.5 mg L−1), Kin (1.5 mg L−1), NAA (0.5 mg L−1) and TDZ (0.5 mg L−1) within four weeks. Developed shoots were successfully rooted on half strength MS free hormone medium and later transferred into a pot containing soil for acclimatization. This cutting-edge finding is unique over the other existing publishable data due to the good regeneration response by producing a large number of shoots. PMID:26858569

Preparation and characterization of Fe50Co50 nanostructured alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yepes, N.; Orozco, J.; Caamaño, Z.; Mass, J.; Pérez, G.

2014-04-01

Nanostructured Fe50Co50 alloy was prepared by mechanical alloying of Fe and Co powders in a planetary high energy ball milling. The microstructure and structural evolution of the alloy have been investigated as a function of milling time (0 h, 8 h, 20 h and 35 h) by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) characterization techniques. SEM micrographs showed different powder particles morphologies during the mechanical alloying stages. By XRD analysis it could be identified the structural phases of the alloy and the crystallite size was calculated as a function of the milling time.

Formation of Al15Mn3Si2 Phase During Solidification of a Novel Al-12%Si-4%Cu-1.2%Mn Heat-Resistant Alloy and Its Thermal Stability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suo, Xiaojing; Liao, Hengcheng; Hu, Yiyun; Dixit, Uday S.; Petrov, Pavel

2018-02-01

The formation of Al15Mn3Si2 phase in Al-12Si-4Cu-1.2Mn (wt.%) alloy during solidification was investigated by adopting CALPHAD method and microstructural observation by optical microscopy, SEM-EDS, TEM-EDS/SAD and XRD analysis; SEM fixed-point observation method was applied to evaluate its thermal stability. As-cast microstructural observation consistently demonstrates the solidification sequence of the studied alloy predicted by phase diagram calculation. Based on the phase diagram calculation, SEM-EDS, TEM-EDS/SAD and XRD analysis, as well as evidences on Al-Si-Mn-Fe compounds from the literature, the primary and eutectic Mn-rich phases with different morphologies in the studied alloy are identified to be Al15Mn3Si2 that has a body-centered cubic (BCC) structure with a lattice constant of a = 1.352 nm. SEM fixed-point observation and XRD analysis indicate that Al15Mn3Si2 phase has more excellent thermal stability at high temperature than that of CuAl2 phase and can serve as the major strengthening phase in heat-resistant aluminum alloy that has to face a high-temperature working environment. Results of tension test show that addition of Mn can improve the strength of Al-Si-Cu alloy, especially at elevated temperature.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cooke, Gary A.; Pestovich, John A.; Huber, Heinz J.

This report presents the results for solid phase characterization (SPC) of solid samples removed from tank 241-C-108 (C-108) on August 12-13,2012, using the off-riser sampler. Samples were received at the 222-S Laboratory on August 13 and were described and photographed. The SPC analyses that were performed include scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using the ASPEX(R)l scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD) using the Rigaku(R) 2 MiniFlex X-ray diffractometer, and polarized light microscopy (PLM) using the Nikon(R) 3 Eclipse Pol optical microscope. The SEM is equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) to provide chemical information. Gary A. Cooke conducted themore » SEM analysis, John A. Pestovich performed the XRD analysis, and Dr. Heinz J. Huber performed the PLM examination. The results of these analyses are presented here.« less

XRD and SEM study of alumina silicate porcelain insulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duddi, Dharmender; Singh, G. P.; Kalra, Swati; Shekhawat, M. S.; Tak, S. K.

2018-05-01

Higher strength electrical porcelain is a requirement of industry. This will be achieved by a specific composition of raw materials, which is consisted of clays and feldspars. Water absorption, particle size and insulating properties are of special interest now a day. China clay, Ball clay and Quartz are widely used by ceramic industries in Bikaner district of Rajasthan. Sample for present study were prepared by mixing of above clay, feldspar with MnO2, then shrinkage is observed. Bar shaped samples were prepared and heated up to a temperature of about 1185° C to observe shrinkage. For phase study of XRD and SEM are observed.

Preparation, characterization and conductivity study of nitro-mercurated styrene butadiene rubber/silver doped zinc oxide nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anilkumar, T.; Naik, Adarsh Ajith; Ramesan, M. T.

2017-06-01

Here we report the preparation of nitromercurated styrene butadiene rubber (NMSBR)/silver doped zinc oxide nanocomposite by inexpensive and ecofriendly two roll mill mixing. The composites were characterized by UV, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TGA and conductivity measurements. UV and FTIR spectrum indicated the interfacial interaction between the polymer and nanoparticles.XRD and SEM images showed the uniform arrangement of nanoparticles within the macromolecular chain. TGA study indicated the better thermal resistance of the composite. The dielectric properties and AC conductivity ofnanocomposites were much greater than nitromercurated SBR and they may be used as multifunctional materials for nanoelectronic devices.

Preparation, characterization, dielectric properties and diffusion studies of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)/manganous tungstate (MnWO4) nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jasna, V. C.; Ramesan, M. T.

2017-06-01

Nanocomposites based on SBR with different content of manganous tungstate nanoparticles were prepared and characterized by FTIR, UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TGA, DSC and impedance analysis. The interaction between nanoparticles and the elastomer was clear from the shift in peaks of UV and FTIR. XRD and SEM analysis showed the uniform arrangement of nanoparticles in SBR matrix. Glass transition temperature, thermal stability and dielectric properties of composites were enhanced by the addition of nanoparticles. Sorption studies of nanocomposites were done in aromatic solvents at different temperature. Sorption data obtained were used to estimate the thermodynamic properties.

Synthesis and characterization of nanocrystalline graphite from coconut shell with heating process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wachid, Frischa M., E-mail: frischamw@yahoo.com, E-mail: adhiyudhaperkasa@yahoo.com, E-mail: afandisar@yahoo.com, E-mail: nurulrosyidah92@gmail.com, E-mail: darminto@physics.its.ac.id; Perkasa, Adhi Y., E-mail: frischamw@yahoo.com, E-mail: adhiyudhaperkasa@yahoo.com, E-mail: afandisar@yahoo.com, E-mail: nurulrosyidah92@gmail.com, E-mail: darminto@physics.its.ac.id; Prasetya, Fandi A., E-mail: frischamw@yahoo.com, E-mail: adhiyudhaperkasa@yahoo.com, E-mail: afandisar@yahoo.com, E-mail: nurulrosyidah92@gmail.com, E-mail: darminto@physics.its.ac.id

Graphite were synthesized and characterized by heating process of coconut shell with varying temperature (400, 800 and 1000°C) and holding time (3 and 5 hours). After heating process, the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and analyzed by X'pert HighScore Plus Software, Scanning Electron Microcope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (SEM-EDX) and Transmission Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-Ray (TEM-EDX). Graphite and londsdaelite phase were analyzed by XRD. According to EDX analysis, the sample was heated in 1000°C got the highest content of carbon. The amorphous carbon and nanocrystalline graphite were observed by SEM-EDX and TEM-EDX.

Dissolution enhancement of tadalafil by liquisolid technique.

PubMed

Lu, Mei; Xing, Haonan; Yang, Tianzhi; Yu, Jiankun; Yang, Zhen; Sun, Yanping; Ding, Pingtian

2017-02-01

This study aimed to enhance the dissolution of tadalafil, a poorly water-soluble drug by applying liquisolid technique. The effects of two critical formulation variables, namely drug concentration (17.5% and 35%, w/w) and excipients ratio (10, 15 and 20) on dissolution rates were investigated. Pre-compression tests, including particle size distribution, flowability determination, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were carried out to investigate the mechanism of dissolution enhancement. Tadalafil liquisolid tablets were prepared and their quality control tests, dissolution study, contact angle measurement, Raman mapping, and storage stability test were performed. The results suggested that all the liquisolid tablets exhibited significantly higher dissolution rates than the conventional tablets and pure tadalafil. FT-IR spectrum reflected no drug-excipient interactions. DSC and XRD studies indicated reduction in crystallinity of tadalafil, which was further confirmed by SEM and Raman mapping outcomes. The contact angle measurement demonstrated obvious increase in wetting property. Taken together, the reduction of particle size and crystallinity, and the improvement of wettability were the main mechanisms for the enhanced dissolution rate. No significant changes were observed in drug crystallinity and dissolution behavior after storage based on XRD, SEM and dissolution results.

XRD, SEM and infrared study into the intercalation of sodium hexadecyl sulfate (SHS) into hydrocalumite.

PubMed

Zhang, Ping; Wang, Tianqi; Zhang, Longlong; Wu, Daishe; Frost, Ray L

2015-12-05

Hydrocalumite (CaAl-LDH-Cl) interacted with a natural anionic surfactant, sodium hexadecyl sulfate (SHS), was performed using an intercalation method. To understand the intercalation behavior and characterize the resulting products, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scan electron microscopy (SEM) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy combined with near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technique were used. The XRD analysis indicated that SHS was intercalated into CaAl-LDH-Cl successfully, resulting in an expansion of the interlayer (from 0.78 nm to 2.74 nm). The bands of C-H stretching vibrations of SHS were observed in the near-infrared spectra, which indicated that the resulting products were indeed CaAl-LDH-SHS. In addition, the bands of water stretching vibrations and OH groups shifted to higher wavenumbers when SHS was intercalated into CaAl-LDH-Cl interlayer space. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanoparticles of ZrPO4 for green catalytic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sreenivasulu, Peta; Pendem, Chandrasekhar; Viswanadham, Nagabhatla

2014-11-01

Here we report the successful room temperature synthesis of zirconium phosphate nanoparticles (ZPNP) using the P123 tri-co-block polymer for the first time. The samples were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, TPD, and BET and were employed for fixation of CO2 on aniline to produce pharmaceutically important acetanilide under mild reaction conditions (150 °C and 150 Psi CO2 pressure).Here we report the successful room temperature synthesis of zirconium phosphate nanoparticles (ZPNP) using the P123 tri-co-block polymer for the first time. The samples were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, TPD, and BET and were employed for fixation of CO2 on aniline to produce pharmaceutically important acetanilide under mild reaction conditions (150 °C and 150 Psi CO2 pressure). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental details, wide angle XRD, EDX, IR spectra, GC data etc. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr03209h

Surface characterization of cottonseed meal products by SEM, SEM-EDS, XRD and XPS analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The utilization of cottonseed meal as a valuable industrial feedstock needs to be exploited. We have recently produced water-washed cottonseed meal, total cottonseed protein, sequentially extracted water- and alkali-soluble proteins, and two residues after the total and sequential protein extraction...

Novel perovskite coating of strontium zirconate in Inconel substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkatesh, G.; Blessto, B.; Rao, C. Santhosh Kumar; Subramanian, R.; Berchmans, L. John

2018-02-01

Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC) provides a low thermal conductivity barrier to heat transfer from the hot gas in the engine to the surface of the coated alloy component. SrZrO3 powder are prepared by Sol Gel synthesis method. The synthesized powder sample is characterized by X Ray Diffraction Technique (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and the results are interpreted. The Polycrystalline nature of SrZrO3 is confirmed and lattice spacing are determined in XRD. SEM shows sub-micron sized particles and a fringed pattern is observed in TEM. The IN718 specimen is Wire Cut and Sand Blasted. A SrZrO3 double layer is coated over the Inconel specimen through a Bond Coat made of NiCoCrAlY by Plasma spraying Process and also characterized. SEM analysis of the Coating shows diffusion of Fe, Sr into the substrate.

Chemical Species, Micromorphology, and XRD Fingerprint Analysis of Tibetan Medicine Zuotai Containing Mercury

PubMed Central

Li, Cen; Yang, Hongxia; Xiao, Yuancan; Zhandui; Sanglao; Wang, Zhang; Ladan, Duojie; Bi, Hongtao

2016-01-01

Zuotai (gTso thal) is one of the famous drugs containing mercury in Tibetan medicine. However, little is known about the chemical substance basis of its pharmacodynamics and the intrinsic link of different samples sources so far. Given this, energy dispersive spectrometry of X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to assay the elements, micromorphology, and phase composition of nine Zuotai samples from different regions, respectively; the XRD fingerprint features of Zuotai were analyzed by multivariate statistical analysis. EDX result shows that Zuotai contains Hg, S, O, Fe, Al, Cu, and other elements. SEM and AFM observations suggest that Zuotai is a kind of ancient nanodrug. Its particles are mainly in the range of 100–800 nm, which commonly further aggregate into 1–30 μm loosely amorphous particles. XRD test shows that β-HgS, S8, and α-HgS are its main phase compositions. XRD fingerprint analysis indicates that the similarity degrees of nine samples are very high, and the results of multivariate statistical analysis are broadly consistent with sample sources. The present research has revealed the physicochemical characteristics of Zuotai, and it would play a positive role in interpreting this mysterious Tibetan drug. PMID:27738409

Chemical Species, Micromorphology, and XRD Fingerprint Analysis of Tibetan Medicine Zuotai Containing Mercury.

PubMed

Li, Cen; Yang, Hongxia; Du, Yuzhi; Xiao, Yuancan; Zhandui; Sanglao; Wang, Zhang; Ladan, Duojie; Bi, Hongtao; Wei, Lixin

2016-01-01

Zuotai ( gTso thal ) is one of the famous drugs containing mercury in Tibetan medicine. However, little is known about the chemical substance basis of its pharmacodynamics and the intrinsic link of different samples sources so far. Given this, energy dispersive spectrometry of X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to assay the elements, micromorphology, and phase composition of nine Zuotai samples from different regions, respectively; the XRD fingerprint features of Zuotai were analyzed by multivariate statistical analysis. EDX result shows that Zuotai contains Hg, S, O, Fe, Al, Cu, and other elements. SEM and AFM observations suggest that Zuotai is a kind of ancient nanodrug. Its particles are mainly in the range of 100-800 nm, which commonly further aggregate into 1-30  μ m loosely amorphous particles. XRD test shows that β -HgS, S 8 , and α -HgS are its main phase compositions. XRD fingerprint analysis indicates that the similarity degrees of nine samples are very high, and the results of multivariate statistical analysis are broadly consistent with sample sources. The present research has revealed the physicochemical characteristics of Zuotai , and it would play a positive role in interpreting this mysterious Tibetan drug.

Characterization of the Microstructure of the Compositionally Complex Alloy Al1Mo0.5Nb1Ta0.5Ti1Zr1 (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-01

limited to X-ray diffraction ( XRD ) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The alloy was reported to contain two bcc phases with similar lattice...it appears that the interface between the two phases is fairly coherent. Interestingly, the XRD study described in [8] suggested that there were two...line-scan shown in (h). 3 Distribution A. Approved for public reledifference in lattice parameter measurements realized in bulk samples ( XRD ) vs

Acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/manganous tungstate (MnWO4) nanocomposites: Characterization, mechanical and electrical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramesan, M. T.; Abdu Raheem V., P.; Jayakrishnan, P.; Pradyumnan, P. P.

2014-10-01

Nanocomposites of NBR with manganous-tungstate nanoparticles were prepared through vulcanization process. The extent of interaction of nanoparticles with the polymer was studied by FTIR, SEM, XRD, TGA and AC conductivity. FTIR and XRD ascertain the interaction of NBR with MnWO4 nanoparticles. SEM analysis established that the nanopartilces were well dispersed in the macromolecular chain of NBR. The mechanical properties of the nanocomposites were studied as a function of filler loading. The nanocomposites exhibited enhanced thermal stability as seen in TGA. Conductivity and dielectric properties of nanocomposites increase with increase in concentration of MnWO4 nanoparticles (7phr) and thereafter the value decreases.

Electrodeposition of Zn-doped α-nickel hydroxide with flower-like nanostructure for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

You, Zheng; Shen, Kui; Wu, Zhicheng; Wang, Xiaofeng; Kong, Xianghua

2012-08-01

Zn-doped α-nickel hydroxide materials with flower-like nanostructures are synthesized by electrochemical deposition method. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electrochemical measurements. XRD spectra indicate nickel hydroxide doped with Zn is α-Ni(OH)2 with excellent crystallization. The SEM observation shows that the formation of Zn-doped Ni(OH)2 includes two steps: a honeycomb-like film forms on the substrate first, then flower-like particles forms on the films. The nickel hydroxide doped with 5% Zn can maintain a maximum specific capacitance of 860 F g-1, suggesting its potential application in electrochemical capacitors.

Single step synthesis of nanostructured boron nitride for boron neutron capture therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Bikramjeet; Singh, Paviter; Kumar, Manjeet; Thakur, Anup; Kumar, Akshay

2015-05-01

Nanostructured Boron Nitride (BN) has been successfully synthesized by carbo-thermic reduction of Boric Acid (H3BO3). This method is a relatively low temperature synthesis route and it can be used for large scale production of nanostructured BN. The synthesized nanoparticles have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential thermal analyzer (DTA). XRD analysis confirmed the formation of single phase nanostructured Boron Nitride. SEM analysis showed that the particles are spherical in shape. DTA analysis showed that the phase is stable upto 900 °C and the material can be used for high temperature applications as well boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT).

Fabrication of high-k dielectric Calcium Copper Titanate (CCTO) target by solid state route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tripathy, N.; Das, K. C.; Ghosh, S. P.; Bose, G.; Kar, J. P.

2016-02-01

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) ceramic pellet of 10mm diameter has been synthesized by adopting solid state route. The structural and morphological characterization of the ceramics sample was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. XRD pattern revealed the CCTO phase formation, where as SEM micrograph shows the sample consisting of well defined grain and grain boundaries. The room temperature dielectric constant of the sample was found to be ∼ 5000 at 1kHz. After successful preparation of CCTO pellet, a 2 inch diameter CCTO sputtering target is also fabricated in order to deposit CCTO thin films for microelectronic applications.

Surfactant-free bio-synthesised Tio2 nanorods from Turbinaria conoides-a study on photocatalytic and anti-bacterial activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subhapriya, S.; Gomathipriya, P.

2018-06-01

In this study, Titania nanorods were synthesised from aqueous extract of Turbinaria conoides (brown seaweeds) (TiO2NRs-TC) under surfactant free medium. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesised nanorods was tested towards the photocatalytic decolourization using simulated dye wastewater containing Navy Blue HER (NBHER). The synthesised Titania nanorods were characterized by using x-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectrophotometer (EDS) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). XRD pattern confirms the anatase phase formation and HR-SEM micrograph shows the presence of rod like structure with the size of about 50 nm. TEM analysis proves the rod like structure with a size of 45–50 nm which was in agreement with the XRD analysis and HR-SEM images. EDS and XDS confirmed the formation of Titania nanoparticles. The formation of TiO2NRs-TC has a beneficial influence on the dye Navy blue HER photodegradation. TiO2-TC nano rods also show superior photocatalytic ability in hydrogen generation (2.1 mmol/h‑1g‑1). The antibacterial activity of the synthesised nanoparticles was examined using disc diffusion method which showed diverse susceptibility of microorganisms to the Titania nanoparticles.

Morphological, chemical and structural characterisation of deciduous enamel: SEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR and XPS analysis.

PubMed

Zamudio-Ortega, C M; Contreras-Bulnes, R; Scougall-Vilchis, R J; Morales-Luckie, R A; Olea-Mejía, O F; Rodríguez-Vilchis, L E

2014-09-01

The purpose of this study was to characterise the enamel surface of sound deciduous teeth in terms of morphology, chemical composition, structure and crystalline phases. The enamel of 30 human deciduous teeth was examined by: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). Chemical differences between incisors and canines were statistically evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test (p ≤ 0.05). Three enamel patterns were observed by SEM: 'mostly smooth with some groves', 'abundant microporosities' and 'exposed prisms'. The average Ca/P molar ratios were 1.37 and 1.03 by EDS and XPS, respectively. The crystallite size determined by XRD was 210.82 ± 16.78 Å. The mean ratio between Ca bonded to phosphate and Ca bonded to hydroxyl was approximately 10:1. The enamel of sound deciduous teeth showed two main patterns: 'mostly smooth with some groves' and 'abundant microporosities'. 'Exposed prisms' was a secondary pattern. There were slight variations among the Ca/P molar ratios found by EDS and XPS, suggesting differences in the mineral content from the enamel surface to the interior. The crystalline phases found in enamel were hydroxyapatite and carbonate apatite, with major type B than type A carbonate incorporation.

Acid volatile sulfide and simultaneously extracted metals in superficial sediments from Baihua Lake, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jiping; Hu, Jiwei; Huang, Xianfei; Shen, Wei; Jin, Mei; Fu, Liya; Jin, Xiaofei

2013-09-01

The bioavailability of five divalent cationic heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn and Ni) in 10 superficial sediment samples from Baihua Lake was assessed based on the molar ratio of simultaneously extracted metals (SEMs) to acid volatile sulfide (AVS). Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) were used to determine the heavy metal concentrations and examine the mineralogy of the crystalline phases, respectively. The AVS loadings in sediments from Baihua Lake ranged from 64.30 to 350.08 μmol/g (dry weight). The corresponding SEM levels for the sampling sites varied from 1.770 to 14.660 μmol/g. The molar ratio of SEMs to AVS ranged from 0.014 to 0.084 with a mean value of 0.034. The XRD analysis also confirmed the presence of some metal sulfides in sediments from Baihua Lake. The SEMs/AVS ratios for all sampling sites were significantly lower than 1.0, indicating that AVS in the sediments was sufficient to bind the five heavy metals; thus, these heavy metals are currently not significantly bioavailable to benthic organisms. Comparing the SEMs results to published guideline values for metal toxicity to benthic organisms in sediments, however, suggests that Zn and Ni pose a risk at some sampling locations in Baihua Lake.

A comparative study: Effect of plasma on V2O5 nanostructured thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Megha; Kumar, Prabhat; Sharma, Rabindar K.; Reddy, G. B.

2016-05-01

Vanadium pentoxide nanostructured thin films (NSTs) have been studied to analyze the effect of plasma on nanostructures grown and morphology of films deposited using sublimation process. Nanostructured thin films were deposited on glass substrates, one in presence of oxygen plasma and other in oxygen environment (absence of plasma). Films were characterized using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM and HRTEM. XRD studies revealed α-V2O5 films (orthorhombic phase) with good crystallinity. However, film deposited in presence of plasma have higher peak intensities as compared to those deposited in absence of plasma. Raman studies also support these finding following same trends of considerable increase in intensity in case of film deposited in presence of plasma. SEM micrographs makes the difference more visible, as film deposited in plasma have well defined plate like structures whereas other film have not-clearly-defined petal-like structures. HRTEM results show orthorhombic phase with 0.39 nm interplanar spacing, as reported by XRD. Results are hereby in good agreement with each other.

Development of Thin Films as Potential Structural Cathodes to Enable Multifunctional Energy-Storage Structural Composite Batteries for the U.S. Army’s Future Force

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

glancing angle X - ray diffraction (GAXRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical...Emission SEM FWHM full width at half maximum GAXRD glancing angle X - ray diffraction H3COCH2CH2OH 2-methoxyethanol LiMn2O4 lithium manganese oxide...were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X - ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). In addition,

Influence of Te and Se doping on ZnO films growth by SILAR method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Güney, Harun; Duman, Ćaǧlar

2016-04-01

The AIP Successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) is an economic and simple method to growth thin films. In this study, SILAR method is used to growth Selenium (Se) and Tellurium (Te) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films with different doping rates. For characterization of the films X-ray diffraction (XRD), absorbance and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used. XRD results are showed well-defined strongly (002) oriented crystal structure for all samples. Also, absorbance measurements show, Te and Se concentration are proportional and inversely proportional with band gap energy, respectively. SEM measurements show that the surface morphology and thickness of the material varied with Se and/or Te and varying concentrations.

Morphology-controllable of Sn doped ZnO nanorods prepared by spray pyrolysis for transparent electrode application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hameed, M. Shahul; Princice, J. Joseph; Babu, N. Ramesh; Zahirullah, S. Syed; Deshmukh, Sampat G.; Arunachalam, A.

2018-05-01

Transparent conductive Sn doped ZnO nanorods have been deposited at various doping level by spray pyrolysis technique on glass substrate. The structural, surface morphological and optical properties of these films have been investigated with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM) and UV-Vis spectrophotometer respectively. XRD patterns revealed a successful high quality growth of single crystal ZnO nanorods with hexagonal wurtzite structure having (002) preferred orientation. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the prepared films exposed the uniform distribution of Sn doped ZnO nanorod shaped grains. All these films were highly transparent in the visible region with average transmittance of 90%.

Influence of Te and Se doping on ZnO films growth by SILAR method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Güney, Harun, E-mail: harunguney25@hotmail.com; Duman, Çağlar, E-mail: caglarduman@erzurum.edu.tr

2016-04-18

The AIP Successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) is an economic and simple method to growth thin films. In this study, SILAR method is used to growth Selenium (Se) and Tellurium (Te) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films with different doping rates. For characterization of the films X-ray diffraction (XRD), absorbance and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used. XRD results are showed well-defined strongly (002) oriented crystal structure for all samples. Also, absorbance measurements show, Te and Se concentration are proportional and inversely proportional with band gap energy, respectively. SEM measurements show that the surface morphology and thickness ofmore » the material varied with Se and/or Te and varying concentrations.« less

A facile synthesis of metal nanoparticle - graphene composites for better absorption of solar radiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sharma, Bindu; Mulla, Rafiq; Rabinal, M. K., E-mail: mkrabinal@yahoo.com

2015-06-24

Herein, a facile chemical approach has been adopted to prepare silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)- graphene (G) composite to study photothermal effect. Sodium borohydride (SBH), a strong reducing agent has been selected for this work. Effect of SBH concentrations on optical behavior of AgNPs-G composite was also investigated. Resultant materials were characterized by various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), optical absorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). SEM micrographs confirm wrapping of AgNPs into graphene whereas XRD analysis reveals their particle size variation between 47 nm to 69 nm. Optical studies throw a light on theirmore » strong absorption behavior towards solar radiation.« less

Nanoplate-like tungsten trioxide (hydrate) films prepared by crystal-seed-assisted hydrothermal reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, P.; Yang, L.; Dai, B.; Yang, Z.; Guo, S.; Zhu, J.

2017-07-01

Vertically-aligned WO3 nanoplates on transparent conducting fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass were prepared by a facile template-free crystal-seed-assisted hydrothermal method. The effects of the hydrothermal temperature and reaction time on the crystal structure and morphology of the products were investigated by XRD and SEM. The XRD results showed that the as-prepared thin films obtained below 150∘C comprised orthorhombic WO3 ṡ H2O and completely converted to monoclinic WO3 at 180∘C. It was also noted that there was a phase transformation from orthorhombic to monoclinic by increasing the reaction time from 1 to 12 h. SEM analysis revealed that WO3 thin films are composed of plate-like nanostructures.

The PM2.5 capture of poly (lactic acid)/nano MOFs eletrospinning membrane with hydrophilic surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yating; Dai, Xiu; Li, Xu; Wang, Xinlong

2018-03-01

In this article, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) material is introduced in the poly (lactic acid) (PLA) by electrospinning to fabricate the nanocomposite membrane. The acrylic acid (AA) is grafted onto the membrane under UV light. The prepared membrane is studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetry (TG), contact angle test and tensile strength test. The SEM image and XRD indicate that nano MOFs particles adhere to the membrane. Contact angle test shows that grafting AA on the composite fiber membrane improves its hydrophilicity effectively. TG analyses show that the particulate matter (PM) capture capacity of PLA membrane with 2 wt% ZIF-8 content is 22%, which rises to 37% after grafting.

Single step synthesis of nanostructured boron nitride for boron neutron capture therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Singh, Bikramjeet; Singh, Paviter; Kumar, Akshay, E-mail: akshaykumar.tiet@gmail.com

2015-05-15

Nanostructured Boron Nitride (BN) has been successfully synthesized by carbo-thermic reduction of Boric Acid (H{sub 3}BO{sub 3}). This method is a relatively low temperature synthesis route and it can be used for large scale production of nanostructured BN. The synthesized nanoparticles have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential thermal analyzer (DTA). XRD analysis confirmed the formation of single phase nanostructured Boron Nitride. SEM analysis showed that the particles are spherical in shape. DTA analysis showed that the phase is stable upto 900 °C and the material can be used for high temperature applications asmore » well boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT)« less

Synthesis of TiN/a-Si3N4 thin film by using a Mather type dense plasma focus system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, T.; R., Ahmad; Khalid, N.; A. Umar, Z.; Hussnain, A.

2013-05-01

A 2.3 kJ Mather type pulsed plasma focus device was used for the synthesis of a TiN/a-Si3N4 thin film at room temperature. The film was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The XRD pattern confirms the growth of polycrystalline TiN thin film. The XPS results indicate that the synthesized film is non-stoichiometric and contains titanium nitride, silicon nitride, and a phase of silicon oxy-nitride. The SEM and AFM results reveal that the surface of the synthesized film is quite smooth with 0.59 nm roughness (root-mean-square).

Structural, morphological and optical studies of F doped SnO2 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandel, Tarun; Thakur, Vikas; Dwivedi, Shailendra Kumar; Zaman, M. Burhanuz; Rajaram, Poolla

2018-05-01

Highly conducting and transparent FTO (flourine doped tin Oxide) thin films were grown on the glass substrates using a low cost spray pyrolysis technique. The films were characterized for their structural, morphological and optical studies using XRD, SEM and UV-Vis spectroscopy. XRD studies show that the FTO films crystallize in Tetragonal cassiterite structure. Morphological analysis using SEM show that the films are uniformly covered with spherical grains albeit high in surface roughness. The average optical transmission greater than 80% in the visible region along with the appearance of interference fringes in the transmission curves confirms the high quality of the films. Electrical studies show that the films exhibit sheet resistance below 10 Ω ϒ-1.

Specificity and Versatility of Substrate Binding Sites in Four Catalytic Domains of Human N-Terminal Acetyltransferases

PubMed Central

Grauffel, Cédric; Abboud, Angèle; Liszczak, Glen; Marmorstein, Ronen; Arnesen, Thomas; Reuter, Nathalie

2012-01-01

Nt-acetylation is among the most common protein modifications in eukaryotes. Although thought for a long time to protect proteins from degradation, the role of Nt-acetylation is still debated. It is catalyzed by enzymes called N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs). In eukaryotes, several NATs, composed of at least one catalytic domain, target different substrates based on their N-terminal sequences. In order to better understand the substrate specificity of human NATs, we investigated in silico the enzyme-substrate interactions in four catalytic subunits of human NATs (Naa10p, Naa20p, Naa30p and Naa50p). To date hNaa50p is the only human subunit for which X-ray structures are available. We used the structure of the ternary hNaa50p/AcCoA/MLG complex and a structural model of hNaa10p as a starting point for multiple molecular dynamics simulations of hNaa50p/AcCoA/substrate (substrate = MLG, EEE, MKG), hNaa10p/AcCoA/substrate (substrate = MLG, EEE). Nine alanine point-mutants of the hNaa50p/AcCoA/MLG complex were also simulated. Homology models of hNaa20p and hNaa30p were built and compared to hNaa50p and hNaa10p. The simulations of hNaa50p/AcCoA/MLG reproduce the interactions revealed by the X-ray data. We observed strong hydrogen bonds between MLG and tyrosines 31, 138 and 139. Yet the tyrosines interacting with the substrate’s backbone suggest that their role in specificity is limited. This is confirmed by the simulations of hNaa50p/AcCoA/EEE and hNaa10p/AcCoA/MLG, where these hydrogen bonds are still observed. Moreover these tyrosines are all conserved in hNaa20p and hNaa30p. Other amino acids tune the specificity of the S1’ sites that is different for hNaa10p (acidic), hNaa20p (hydrophobic/basic), hNaa30p (basic) and hNaa50p (hydrophobic). We also observe dynamic correlation between the ligand binding site and helix that tightens under substrate binding. Finally, by comparing the four structures we propose maps of the peptide-enzyme interactions that should help rationalizing substrate-specificity and lay the ground for inhibitor design. PMID:23285125

Symposium N: Materials and Devices for Thermal-to-Electric Energy Conversion

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-24

X - ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Thermal conductivity measurements...SEM), X - ray diffraction (XRD) measurements as well as Raman spectroscopy. The results from these techniques indicate a clear modification...was examined by using scanning electron microscope (SEM; HITACHI S-4500 model) attached with an energy dispersive x - ray spectroscopy. The electrical

Composition and microstructure of MTA and Aureoseal Plus: XRF, EDS, XRD and FESEM evaluation.

PubMed

Cianconi, L; Palopoli, P; Campanella, V; Mancini, M

2016-12-01

The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and the phases' microstructure of Aureoseal Plus (OGNA, Italy) and ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Tulsa Dental, USA) and to compare their characteristics. Study Design: Comparing Aureoseal Plus and ProRoot MTA microstructure by means of several analyses type. The chemical analysis of the two cements was assessed following the UNI EN ISO 196-2 norm. X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) was used to determine the element composition. The crystalline structure was analysed quantitatively using x-ray diffraction (XRD). Powders morphology was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with backscattering detectors, and a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Elemental analysis was performed by energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDS). The semi-quantitative XRF analysis showed the presence of heavy metal oxides in both cements. The XRD spectra of the two cements reported the presence of dicalcium silicate, tricalcium silicate, tricalcium aluminate, tetracalcium aluminoferrite, bismuth oxide and gypsum. SEM analysis showed that ProRoot MTA powder is less coarse and more homogeneous than Aureoseal. Both powders are formed by particles of different shapes: round, prismatic and oblong. The EDS analysis showed that some ProRoot MTA particles, differently from Aureoseal, contain Ca, Si, Al and Fe. Oblong particles in ProRoot and Aureoseal are rich of bismuth. The strong interest in developing new Portland cement-based endodontic sealers will create materials with increased handling characteristics and physicochemical properties. A thorough investigation on two cement powders was carried out by using XRF, XRD, SEM and EDS analysis. To date there was a lack of studies on Aureoseal Plus. This cement is similar in composition to ProRoot MTA. Despite that it has distinctive elements that could improve its characteristics, resulting in a good alternative to MTA.

Aminopropyl-modified mesoporous molecular sieves as efficient adsorbents for removal of auxins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moritz, Michał; Geszke-Moritz, Małgorzata

2015-03-01

In the present study, mesoporous siliceous materials grafted with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) were examined as sorbents for removal of chosen plant growth factors (auxins) such as 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Four different types of mesoporous molecular sieves including SBA-15, PHTS, SBA-16 and MCF have been prepared via non-ionic surfactant-assisted soft templating method. Silica molecular sieves were thoroughly characterized by nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) for NAA, IAA and IBA was in the range from 51.0 to 140.8 mg/g and from 4.3 to 7.3 mg/g for aminopropyl-modified adsorbents and pure silicas, respectively. The best adsorption performance was observed for IAA entrapment using both APTES-functionalized SBA-15 and MCF matrices (Qmax of 140.8 and 137.0 mg/g, respectively) which can be ascribed to their larger pore volumes and pore diameters. Moreover, these silicas were characterized by the highest adsorption efficiency exceeding 90% at low pollutant concentration. The experimental points for adsorption of plant growth factors onto aminopropyl-modified mesoporous molecular sieves fitted well to the Langmuir equation.

Time dependence of carbon film deposition on SnO{sub 2}/Si using DC unbalanced magnetron sputtering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alfiadi, H., E-mail: yudi@fi.itb.ac.id; Aji, A. S., E-mail: yudi@fi.itb.ac.id; Darma, Y., E-mail: yudi@fi.itb.ac.id

Carbon deposition on SnO{sub 2} layer has been demonstrated at low temperature using DC unbalanced magnetron-sputtering technique for various time depositions. Before carbon sputtering process, SnO{sub 2} thin layer is grown on silicon substrate by thermal evaporation method using high purity Sn wire and then fully oxidizes by dry O{sub 2} at 225°C. Carbon sputtering process was carried out at pressure of 4.6×10{sup −2} Torr by keeping the substrate temperature of 300 °C for sputtering deposition time of 1 to 4 hours. The properties of SnO{sub 2}/Si structure and carbon thin film on SnO{sub 2} is characterized using SEM, EDAX,more » XRD, FTIR, and Raman Spectra. SEM images and XRD spectra show that SnO2 thin film has uniformly growth on Si substrate and affected by annealing temperature. Raman and FTIR results confirm the formation of carbon-rich thin film on SnO{sub 2}. In addition, XRD spectra indicate that some structural change occur by increasing sputtering deposition time. Furthermore, the change of atomic structure due to the thermal annealing is analized by XRD spectra and Raman spectroscopy.« less

Phase study and surface morphology of beta-alumina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tak, S. K.

2018-05-01

Beta alumina ceramic is well known as a polycrystalline ceramic material. The characteristic crystal structure of beta-alumina makes it useful as a separator in sodium sulphur batteries and other electrochemical devices requiring the passage of sodium ions. β"-alumina powders for this study were prepared by zeta process. The pellets were sintered at different microwave power levels and power schedule to optimize the sintering conditions to obtain preferred β" phase with improved microstructure. Phase identification was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD analysis shows increase in β'' phase as the sintering temperature was increased from 1400°C to 1600°C. Surface morphology of the pellets was carried out by Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM). SEM studies revealed the formation and growth of platelet grains with interconnected porosity.

Structural, microstructural, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of lead free Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3 ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Sarita; Sharma, Hakikat; Negi, N. S.

2018-05-01

Lead free Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3(BCTZ) ceramic has been synthesized by sol-gel method. Properties of material are studied at different sintering temperatures for 5 hours. Structural and microstructural properties are analyzed by using X-ray diffractrometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at annealing temperature of 850°C and 1050°C XRD pattern confirm the perovskite structure of the material without any unwanted phases crystalinity increased with increase of sintering temperature so as roughness and porosity is decreased as shown by SEM micrographs. There is large improvement in density with rise of sintering temperature which also leads to drastic change in ferroelectric and dielectric properties.

Synthesis and Thermal and Photo Behaviors of New Polyamide/Organocaly Nanocomposites Containing Para Phenylenediacrylic Moiety

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faghihi, Khalil; Soleimani, Masoumeh; Shabanian, Meisam; Abootalebi, Ashraf Sadat

2011-06-01

New type of aromatic polyamide/montmorillonite nanocomposites were produced using solution process in N-methyl-2-pyrolidone. Amide chains were synthesized from 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl sulfone and p-phenylenediacrylic acid in N-methyl-2-pyrolidone. The resulting nanocomposite films containing 5-15 mass % of organoclay were characterized for FT-IR, scanning electronmicroscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), optical transparency and water absorption measurements. The distribution of organoclay and nanostructure of the composites were investigated by (XRD) and SEM analyses. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated an increase in thermal stability of nanocomposites as compared to pristine polyamide. The percentage optical transparency and water absorption of these hybrids was found to be much reduced upon the addition of modified layered silicate indicating decreased permeability.

Synthesis and characterization of high-quality cobalt vanadate crystals and their applications in lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhuiyan, Md. Tofajjol Hossen; Rahman, Md. Afjalur; Rahman, Md. Atikur; Sultana, Rajia; Mostafa, Md. Rakib; Tania, Asmaul Husna; Sarker, Md. Abdur Razzaque

2016-12-01

High-quality cobalt vanadate crystals have been synthesized by solid-state reaction route. Structure and morphology of the synthesized powders were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The XRD patterns revealed that the as prepared materials are of high crystallinity and high quality. The SEM images showed that the crystalline CoV2O6 material is very uniform and well separated, with particle (of) area 252 μm. The electronic and optical properties were investigated by impedance analyzer and UV-visible spectrophotometer. Temperature-dependent electrical resistivity was measured using four-probe technique. The crystalline CoV2O6 material is a semiconductor and its activation energy is 0.05 eV.

Preparation and antibacterial effect of silver hydroxyapatite/titania nanocomposite thin film on titanium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mo, Anchun; Liao, Juan; Xu, Wei; Xian, Suqin; Li, Yubao; Bai, Shi

2008-11-01

The composite which contains Ag + and nanosized hydroxyapatite with TiO 2 was deposited onto titanium by dipping method. The morphology, chemical components and structures of the thin film were characterized by XRD, scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were utilized to test the antibacterial effect. XRD results demonstrated that the films have characteristic diffraction peaks of pure HA. EDX results showed that the deposited films consisted of Ca, P, Ti, O and Ag, all of which distribute uniformly. With regard to the antibacterial effect, 98% of S. aureus and more than 99% of E. coli were killed after 24 h incubation and pictures of SEM showed obviously fewer cells on the surface with coating.

N-Acetylaspartate Metabolism Outside the Brain: Lipogenesis, Histone Acetylation, and Cancer

PubMed Central

Bogner-Strauss, Juliane G.

2017-01-01

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is a highly abundant brain metabolite. Aberrant NAA concentrations have been detected in many pathological conditions and although the function of NAA has been extensively investigated in the brain it is still controversial. Only recently, a role of NAA has been reported outside the brain. In brown adipocytes, which show high expression of the NAA-producing and the NAA-cleaving enzyme, the metabolism of NAA has been implicated in lipid synthesis and histone acetylation. Increased expression of N-acetyltransferase 8-like (Nat8l, the gene encoding the NAA synthesizing enzyme) induces de novo lipogenesis and the brown adipocyte phenotype. Accordingly silencing of aspartoacylase, the NAA-cleaving enzyme, reduced brown adipocyte differentiation mechanistically by decreasing histone acetylation and gene transcription. Notably, the expression of Nat8l and the amount of NAA were also shown to be increased in several tumors and inversely correlate with patients’ survival. Additionally, Nat8l silencing reduced cell proliferation in tumor and non-tumor cells, while NAA supplementation could rescue it. However, the mechanism behind has not yet been clarified. It remains to be addressed whether NAA per se and/or its catabolism to acetate and aspartate, metabolites that have both been implicated in tumor growth, are valuable targets for future therapies. PMID:28979238

Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium Dioxide Thin Film for Sensor Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latha, H. K. E.; Lalithamba, H. S.

2018-03-01

Titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (metal oxide semiconductor) are successfully synthesized using hydrothermal method for sensor application. Titanium dioxide and Sodium hydroxide are used as precursors. These reactants are mixed and calcinated at 400 °C to produce TiO2 nanoparticles. The crystalline structure, morphology of synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles are studied using x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD results revealed that the prepared TiO2 sample is highly crystalline, having Anatase crystal structure. FT-IR spectra peak at 475 cm‑1 indicated characteristic absorption bands of TiO2 nanoparticles. The XRD and FTIR result confirmed the formation of high purity of TiO2 nanoparticles. The SEM image shows that TiO2 nanoparticles prepared in this study are spherical in shape. Synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles are deposited on glass substrate at room temperature using E beam evaporation method to determine gauge factor and found to be 4.7. The deposited TiO2 thin films offer tremendous potential in the applications of electronic and magneto–electric devices.

Microstructures of Pd-containing dispersants for admixed dental amalgams.

PubMed

Chern Lin, J H; Greener, E H

1991-10-01

Blended Pd-containing dispersants were developed by the utilization of a Ag-Cu eutectic into which Pd was substituted for Ag or Cu in concentrations of up to 20 wt%. Compositions were melted either in argon-filled sealed vycor tubes or in a graphite-linked carbon crucible of an induction furnace with an argon blanket. Ingots of approximately 1.5 cm in diameter were sectioned to 0.2 cm in thickness and polished through standard metallographic polishing procedures. The possible compounds were identified by XRD. The microstructures of the alloys were examined by SEM/EDS. XRD analysis of the alloys revealed the preferential dissolution of Pd in Cu when the Pd concentration was less than or equal to 10 wt%. When the Pd concentration exceeded 20 wt%, Pd was found to be dissolved in both Ag and Pd. No Cu3Pd x-ray diffraction peaks were found for alloys with Pd concentration of up to 20 wt%. SEM/EDS analysis confirmed XRD results; lamellae of Ag and Cu-Pd were found in alloys with Pd concentration less than or equal to 10 wt%.

Pretreatment of Oil Palm Frond (OPF) with Ionic Liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azmi, I. S.; Azizan, A.; Salleh, R. Mohd

2018-05-01

Pretreatment is the key to unlock the recalcitrance of lignocellulose for cellulosic biofuel production. Increasing attention has been drawn to ionic liquids (ILs) for pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass because this approach was considered as a green engineering method over other conventional methods. In this work, Oil palm frond (OPF) was pretreated by using the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate [EMIM] Ac at the temperature of 99˚C for 3 hours. The characterization of the untreated and pretreated OPF was conducted by using different techniques which are Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The pretreatment of OPF with [EMIM] Ac was demonstrated to be effective evidenced by the significant reduction of Lateral Order Index (LOI) from FTIR, reduction of Crystallinity Index (CI) based on XRD and the significant morphology changes indicated by SEM. The CI value for the pretreated OPF decreased from 0.47 (untreated sample) to 0.28 while the LOI value decreased from 1.10 to 0.24 after pretreatment with [EMIM]Ac and the SEM morphology showed that the pretreated OPF becomes distorted and disordered.

Intercalated chitosan/hydroxyapatite nanocomposites: Promising materials for bone tissue engineering applications.

PubMed

Nazeer, Muhammad Anwaar; Yilgör, Emel; Yilgör, Iskender

2017-11-01

Preparation and characterization of chitosan/hydroxyapatite (CS/HA) nanocomposites displaying an intercalated structure is reported. Hydroxyapatite was synthesized through sol-gel process. Formic acid was introduced as a new solvent to obtain stable dispersions of nano-sized HA particles in polymer solution. CS/HA dispersions with HA contents of 5, 10 and 20% by weight were prepared. Self-assembling of HA nanoparticles during the drying of the solvent cast films led to the formation of homogeneous CS/HA nanocomposites. Composite films were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-rays diffraction (XRD) analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). SEM and AFM confirmed the presence of uniformly distributed HA nanoparticles on the chitosan matrix surface. XRD patterns and cross-sectional SEM images showed the formation of layered nanocomposites. Complete degradation of chitosan matrix in TGA experiments, led to the formation of nanoporous 3D scaffolds containing hydroxyapatite, β-tricalcium phosphate and calcium pyrophosphate. CS/HA composites can be considered as promising materials for bone tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microstructural and optical properties of Mn doped NiO nanostructures synthesized via sol-gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah, Shamim H.; Khan, Wasi; Naseem, Swaleha; Husain, Shahid; Nadeem, M.

2018-04-01

Undoped and Mn(0, 5%, 10% and 15%) doped NiO nanostructures were synthesized by sol-gel method. Structure, morphology and optical properties were investigated through XRD, FTIR, SEM/EDS and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy techniques. XRD data analysis reveals the single phase nature with cubic crystal symmetry of the samples and the average crystallite size decreases with the doping of Mn ions upto 10%. FTIR spectra further confirmed the purity and composition of the synthesized samples. The non-spherical shape of the nanostructures was observed from SEM micrographs and gain size of the nanostructures reduces with Mn doping in NiO, whereas agglomeration increases in doped sample. Optical band gap was estimated using Tauc'srelation and found to increase on incorporation of Mn upto 10% in host lattice and then decreases for further doping.

The effect of heat preservation time on the electrochemical properties of LiFePO4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Rui; Zhang, Lihui; Bai, Xue; Liu, Zhenfa

2017-12-01

LiFePO4 was prepared via high temperature solid-state method at different heat preservation time. XRD and SEM was used to test the structure and morphology of LiFePO4. Land 2001 was used to test the electrochemical performance of LiFePO4. The results illustrated that well-crystallized LiFePO4 composite with homogeneous small particles was obtained by XRD and SEM. And the optimum heat preservation time was 4 hour. From charge/discharge test, it can be seen that at 0.2C, LiFePO4 has initial discharge capacities of 159.1mAh/g at the heat preservation time 4 hour. From the rate capacity, it can be seen that the discharge capacity was of optimum sample remains above 99% after 200 cycles.

Electrical and thermal properties of Ca and Ni doped barium ferrite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Agrawal, Shraddha; Parveen, Azra; Azam, Ameer

2018-05-01

Ca and Ni doped M type Barium ferrite of the composition ((Ba0.9Ca0.1) (Fe0.8 Ni0.2)12O19) were prepared by the traditional sol gel auto combustion method using citric acid as a fuel. Microstructural analyses were carried out with the help of XRD and SEM. XRD analysis is the evidence of nanometer regime along with crystalline planes of hexagonal structure. It also confirms the hexagonal structure of barium ferrite even with the doping of Ca and Ni. SEM analysis is the signature of the spherical shape and surface morphology of agglomerated form of nano-powders of doped samples. The thermal properties of samples were carried out with the help of TGA. That shows the variation of weight loss of the prepared sample with the temperature.

Fabricating the spherical and flake silver powder used for the optoelectronic devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ju, Wei; Ma, Wangjing; Zhang, Fangzhi; Chen, Yixiang; Xie, Jinpeng

2018-01-01

The spherical and flake silver powder with different particle size for the optoelectronic devices was partly prepared by using chemical reduction and ball milling method, and charactered by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), laser particle size analyzer and thermo-gravimetric(TG) analyzer. The particle size of three series of spherical silver powder fabricated by chemical reduction is about 1.5μm, 1μm and 0.6μm, respectively; after being mechanical milling, the particle size of flake silver powder with high flaky rate is about 10μm, 6μm and 2μm respectively. Thermo gravimetric (TG) and XRD analyses showed that the silver powders have high purity and crystalline, and then the laser particle size and SEM analyses showed that the silver powders has good uniformity.

Mechanical and tribological property of single layer graphene oxide reinforced titanium matrix composite coating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zengrong; Li, Yue; Fan, Xueliang; Chen, Feng; Xu, Jiale

2018-04-01

Single layer grapheme oxide Nano sheets and Nano titanium powder were dispersed in deionized water by ultrasonic dispersion. Then the mixed solution was pre-coating on AISI4140 substrate. Using laser sintering process to fabricated grapheme oxide and Ti composite coating. Microstructures and composition of the composite coating was studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffract meter (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectrum, XRD pattern and SEM results proved that grapheme oxide sheets were dispersed in the composite coating. The composite coating had much higher average Vickers hardness values than that of pure Ti coating. The tribological performance of the composite coatings became better while the suitable GO content was selected. For the 2.5wt. % GO content coating, the friction coefficient was reduced to near 0.1.

Synthesis and toxicity test of magnetic nanoparticle via biocompatible microemulsion system as template for application in targeted drug delivery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kader, Razinah Abdul; Rose, Laili Che; Suhaimi, Hamdan; Manickam, Mariessa Soosai

2017-09-01

This work reports the preparation of magnetic nanoparticles (FeNPs) using biocompatible W/O microemulsion for biomedical applications. W/O microemulsion was formed using decane as oil phase, water, tween 80 as non-ionic surfactant and hexanol as organic solvent. The synthesized FeNPs were characterised by using Fourier Transform Infrared Resonance Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The FTIR showed that Fe-O bond exist on 581cm-1 having strong magnetic strength whereas SEM showed the morphology surface of magnetic nanoparticles (FeNPs). Furthermore, analysis of XRD pattern magnetic nanoparticles (FeNPs) reveals a cubic iron oxide phase with good crystallize structure. Furthermore, toxicity test on human liver cells proved that it is 70% safe on human and proved to be a safety nanomedicine.

Micro structural analysis and magnetic characteristics of rare earth substituted cobalt ferrite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tapdiya, Swati; Singh, Sarika; Kulshrestha, Shobha; Shrivastava, A. K.

2018-05-01

A series of ultrafine nanoparticles of Gd3+ doped Co-ferrites CoGdxFe2-xO4 (x=0.0, 0.05 and 0.10) were prepared by wet chemical co-precipitation method using nitrates of respective metal ions. Structural and morphology studies were performed using XRD, SEM and EDAX. Indexed XRD patterns confirm the formation of cubic spinel phase. Average crystallite sizes found to be decreases with trivalent rare earth ion substitution. Lattice constant (a) and lattice strain increases with increase in Gd3+ concentration due to large ionic radii (0.94nm) of Gd3+ replacing Fe3+ (0.64nm). SEM images show the spherical morphology and uniform growth of nanoparticles. Magnetic studies show that magnetization (Ms), decreases with increase in Gd3+ concentration from 50.16 emu/gm to 31.26 emu/gm.

Stable tetragonal phase and magnetic properties of Fe-doped HfO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sales, T. S. N.; Cavalcante, F. H. M.; Bosch-Santos, B.; Pereira, L. F. D.; Cabrera-Pasca, G. A.; Freitas, R. S.; Saxena, R. N.; Carbonari, A. W.

2017-05-01

In this paper, the effect in structural and magnetic properties of iron doping with concentration of 20% in hafnium dioxide (HfO2) nanoparticles is investigated. HfO2 is a wide band gap oxide with great potential to be used as high-permittivity gate dielectrics, which can be improved by doping. Nanoparticle samples were prepared by sol-gel chemical method and had their structure, morphology, and magnetic properties, respectively, investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with electron back scattering diffraction (EBSD), and magnetization measurements. TEM and SEM results show size distribution of particles in the range from 30 nm to 40 nm with small dispersion. Magnetization measurements show the blocking temperature at around 90 K with a strong paramagnetic contribution. XRD results show a major tetragonal phase (94%).

Insitu grown superhydrophobic Zn-Al layered double hydroxides films on magnesium alloy to improve corrosion properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Meng; Pang, Xiaolu; Wei, Liang; Gao, Kewei

2015-05-01

A hierarchical superhydrophobic zinc-aluminum layered double hydroxides (Zn-Al LDHs) film has been fabricated on a magnesium alloy substrate via a facile hydrothermal crystallization method following chemical modification. The characteristics of the films were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). XRD patterns and SEM images showed that the micro/nanoscale hierarchical LDHs film surfaces composed of ZnO nanorods and Zn-Al LDHs nanowalls structures. The static contact angle (CA) for the prepared surfaces was observed at around 165.6°. The corrosion resistance of the superhydrophobic films was estimated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiondynamic polarization measurement. EIS and polarization measurements revealed that the superhydrophobic Zn-Al LDHs coated magnesium alloy had better corrosion resistance in neutral 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution.

Microstructural, optical and electrical properties of LaFe0.5Cr0.5O3 perovskite nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, S. Asad; Naseem, Swaleha; Khan, Wasi; Sharma, A.; Naqvi, A. H.

2016-05-01

Perovskite nanocrystalline powder of LaFe0.5Cr0.5O3 was synthesized by sol-gel combustion route and characterized by x-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with EDS, UV-visible and LCR meter at room temperature Rietveld refinement of the XRD data confirms that the sample is in single phase-rhombohedral structure with space group R-3C. SEM micrograph shows clear nanostructure of the sample and EDS ensures the presence of all elements in good stoichiometric. The optical absorption indicates the maximum absorption at 315 nm and optical band gap of 2.94 eV was estimated using Tauc's relation. Dielectric constant (ɛ') and loss were found to decrease with increase in frequencies. The dielectric behavior was explained on the basis of Maxwell-Wagner's two layer model.

Vitrification of radioactive contaminated soil by means of microwave energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Xun; Qing, Qi; Zhang, Shuai; Lu, Xirui

2017-03-01

Simulated radioactive contaminated soil was successfully vitrified by microwave sintering technology and the solidified body were systematically studied by Raman, XRD and SEM-EDX. The Raman results show that the solidified body transformed to amorphous structure better at higher temperature (1200 °C). The XRD results show that the metamictization has been significantly enhanced by the prolonged holding time at 1200 °C by microwave sintering, while by conventional sintering technology other crystal diffraction peaks, besides of silica at 2θ = 27.830°, still exist after being treated at 1200 °C for much longer time. The SEM-EDX discloses the micro-morphology of the sample and the uniform distribution of Nd element. All the results show that microwave technology performs vitrification better than the conventional sintering method in solidifying radioactive contaminated soil.

Copper Oxide Nanograss for Efficient and Stable Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production by Water Splitting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borkar, Rajnikant; Dahake, Rashmi; Rayalu, Sadhana; Bansiwal, Amit

2018-03-01

A biphasic copper oxide thin film of grass-like appendage morphology is synthesized by two-step electro-deposition method and later investigated for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting for hydrogen production. Further, the thin film was characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and PEC techniques. The XRD analysis confirms formation of biphasic copper oxide phases, and SEM reveals high surface area grass appendage-like morphology. These grass appendage structures exhibit a high cathodic photocurrent of - 1.44 mAcm-2 at an applied bias of - 0.7 (versus Ag/AgCl) resulting in incident to photon current efficiency (IPCE) of ˜ 10% at 400 nm. The improved light harvesting and charge transport properties of grass appendage structured biphasic copper oxides makes it a potential candidate for PEC water splitting for hydrogen production.

N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) as a correlate of pharmacological treatment in psychiatric disorders: a systematic review.

PubMed

Paslakis, Georgios; Träber, Frank; Roberz, Jens; Block, Wolfgang; Jessen, Frank

2014-10-01

The amino-acid N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) is located in neurons and the concentration of NAA correlates with neuronal mitochondrial function. The signal of NAA, as measured with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), is considered to reflect both, neuronal density and integrity of neuronal mitochondria. A reduction of the NAA concentrations has been found in several psychiatric disorders. Newer studies report reversal of decreased NAA concentration with treatment. The objective of this review is to summarize the literature on NAA changes in association with psychopharmacological treatment in psychiatric disorders (affective disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and dementia). The majority of studies identified increased NAA concentrations in response to treatment, while a smaller number of studies did not find this effect. The NAA increase seems to be neither specific for a certain disorder nor for a specific intervention. This suggests that the reduction of NAA may represent an altered functional (metabolic) state of neurons common to different psychiatric disorders and the increase after treatment to indicate functional restoration as one general effect of interventions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. and ECNP. All rights reserved.

Radiation-induced changes in electrical conductivity and structure of BaPbO3 after γ-irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shan, Qing; Cai, Pingkun; Zhang, Xinlei; Li, Jiatong; Chu, Shengnan; Jia, Wenbao

2015-11-01

Several barium plumbate (BaPbO3) solid samples, made from PbO and BaCO3 powder by chemistry liquid-phase coprecipitation, were investigated before and after γ-irradiation. The solid samples were irradiated by a 60Co γ-irradiation source whose dose rate is about 0.7 kGy per hour. The irradiation times were 0, 72, 144, 216, 288 and 360 h. Then, the four-probe method, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to indicate the changes in electrical conductivity and microstructure of BaPbO3 after γ-irradiation. The XRD results indicated that the content of PbO was reduced as the irradiation dose was increased and eventually vanished from the surface of samples. However, there was no new obvious substance phase found from the XRD atlas. It seems that the PbO transformed into nearly amorphous Pb5O8. The conjecture could be proved by the results of annealing experiment and SEM. The XPS results seem to show that the microstructure of BaPbO3 was slightly changed.

Synthesis, characterization and visible-light driven photocatalysis by differently structured CdS/ZnS sandwich and core-shell nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qutub, Nida; Pirzada, Bilal Masood; Umar, Khalid; Mehraj, Owais; Muneer, M.; Sabir, Suhail

2015-11-01

CdS/ZnS sandwich and core-shell nanocomposites were synthesized by a simple and modified Chemical Precipitation method under ambient conditions. The synthesized composites were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDAX and FTIR. Optical properties were analyzed by UV-vis. Spectroscopy and the photoluminescence study was done to monitor the recombination of photo-generated charge-carriers. Thermal stability of the synthesized composites was analyzed by Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). XRD revealed the formation of nanocomposites as mixed diffraction peaks were observed in the XRD pattern. SEM and TEM showed the morphology of the nanocomposites particles and their fine particle size. EDAX revealed the appropriate molar ratios exhibited by the constituent elements in the composites and FTIR gave some characteristic peaks which indicated the formation of CdS/ZnS nanocomposites. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy was done to study charge transfer properties along the nanocomposites. Photocatalytic properties of the synthesized composites were monitored by the photocatalytic kinetic study of Acid Blue dye and p-chlorophenol under visible light irradiation. Results revealed the formation of stable core-shell nanocomposites and their efficient photocatalytic properties.

Ultrasonic-assisted synthesis of nano lead(II) coordination polymer as precursors for preparation of lead(II) oxide nano-structures: Thermal, optical properties and XRD studies.

PubMed

Ghavidelaghdam, Elham; Shahverdizadeh, Gholam Hossein; Motameni Tabatabai, Javad; Mirtamizdoust, Babak

2018-04-01

Nano structure of a lead (II) coordination polymer [Pb 2 (C 2 Cl 3 O 2 ) 2 (NO 3 ) 2 (C l2 H 8 N 2 ) 2 ] n (1), has been synthesized by a sonochemical method in different concentrations. The nano particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), FT-IR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The thermal stability of nano structure is closely investigated via thermal gravimetric (TGA), and compared with crystalline structure. The compounds are then heated to 600 °C to produce PbO nano particles. The resulting PbO is characterized through XRD and SEM analyses. Concentration of initial reagents effects on size and morphology of nano-structured compound 1 have been studied and show that low concentrations of initial reagents decreased particles size and leaded to uniform nano particles morphology. The photoluminescence properties of the prepared compound, as crystalline and as nanoparticles, have been investigated. The result showed a good correlation between the size and emission wavelength. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Synthesis Structural and Optical Properties Of (Co, Al) co-doped ZnO Nano Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swapna, P.; Venkatramana Reddy, S.

2018-02-01

We prepared (Co, Al) co-doped ZnO nanostructures using the method chemical co-precipitation successfully, at room temperature using PEG (Poly ethylene glycol) as stabilizing agent. Samples are prepared with different concentrations by keeping aluminium at 5 mol percent constant and varying the concentration of cobalt from 1 to 5 mol percent. After the preparation all the samples are carefully subjected to characterizations such as XRD, SEM with EDS, TEM, PL and UV-VIS-NIR. XRD pattern shows that all the samples possess hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure having no secondary phases pertaining to Al or cobalt, which shows successful dissolution of the dopents. TEM results shows the accurate size of particles and is confirmed the XRD data. SEM images of all the samples shows that particles are in nearly spherical shape, EDS spectrum reveals that incorporation of cobalt and aluminum in host lattice. PL spectrum shows that all the samples containing two prominent peaks centered at 420 nm and 446 nm. UV-VIS-NIR spectra has shown three absorptions peaks in the range of wavelength 550 nm to 700 nm, which are ascribed as typical d-d transitions of cobalt ions.

Hot Corrosion Behavior of Ti-48Al and Ti-48Al-2Cr Intermetallic Alloys Produced by Electric Current Activated Sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garip, Y.; Ozdemir, O.

2018-06-01

In this study, Ti-48Al and Ti-48Al-2Cr (at. pct) intermetallic alloys were produced by electric current activated sintering (ECAS). In order to characterize the phase formation and microstructures of these alloys, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were used. The XRD result shows that the intermetallic alloys are composed of γ-TiAl and α 2-Ti3Al phases. The microstructure is dense with a low amount of porosity. The hot corrosion behavior of intermetallic alloys was carried out in a salt mixture of 25 wt pct K2SO4 and 75 wt pct Na2SO4 at 700 °C for 180 hours. The morphology of corroded surfaces was observed by SEM-EDS and XRD. Corrosion phases were identified as TiO2 and Al2O3. Well-adhering oxide scale was detected on the corroded sample surface at the end of 180 hours, and no spallation was observed. In addition, a parabolic curve was obtained at the weight change rate vs time.

Structural determinants and cellular environment define processed actin as the sole substrate of the N-terminal acetyltransferase NAA80.

PubMed

Goris, Marianne; Magin, Robert S; Foyn, Håvard; Myklebust, Line M; Varland, Sylvia; Ree, Rasmus; Drazic, Adrian; Bhambra, Parminder; Støve, Svein I; Baumann, Markus; Haug, Bengt Erik; Marmorstein, Ronen; Arnesen, Thomas

2018-04-24

N-terminal (Nt) acetylation is a major protein modification catalyzed by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs). Methionine acidic N termini, including actin, are cotranslationally Nt acetylated by NatB in all eukaryotes, but animal actins containing acidic N termini, are additionally posttranslationally Nt acetylated by NAA80. Actin Nt acetylation was found to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and motility, thus making NAA80 a potential target for cell migration regulation. In this work, we developed potent and selective bisubstrate inhibitors for NAA80 and determined the crystal structure of NAA80 in complex with such an inhibitor, revealing that NAA80 adopts a fold similar to other NAT enzymes but with a more open substrate binding region. Furthermore, in contrast to most other NATs, the substrate specificity of NAA80 is mainly derived through interactions between the enzyme and the acidic amino acids at positions 2 and 3 of the actin substrate and not residues 1 and 2. A yeast model revealed that ectopic expression of NAA80 in a strain lacking NatB activity partially restored Nt acetylation of NatB substrates, including yeast actin. Thus, NAA80 holds intrinsic capacity to posttranslationally Nt acetylate NatB-type substrates in vivo. In sum, the presence of a dominant cotranslational NatB in all eukaryotes, the specific posttranslational actin methionine removal in animals, and finally, the unique structural features of NAA80 leave only the processed actins as in vivo substrates of NAA80. Together, this study reveals the molecular and cellular basis of NAA80 Nt acetylation and provides a scaffold for development of inhibitors for the regulation of cytoskeletal properties. Copyright © 2018 the Author(s). Published by PNAS.

Laser sintered thin layer graphene and cubic boron nitride reinforced nickel matrix nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Zengrong; Tong, Guoquan

2015-10-01

Laser sintered thin layer graphene (Gr)-cubic boron nitride (CBN)-Ni nanocomposites were fabricated on AISI 4140 plate substrate. The composites fabricating process, composites microstructure and mechanical properties were studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy were employed to study the micro structures and composition of the composites. XRD and Raman tests proved that graphene and CBN were dispersed in the nanocomposites. Nanoindentation test results indicate the significant improvements were achieved in the composites mechanical properties.

Elucidating the Wavelength Dependence of Phonon Scattering in Nanoparticle-Matrix Composites using Phonon Spectroscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-07-11

composites with x - ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy...RBS), particle-induced x - ray emission (PIXE), and energy dispersive x - ray spectroscopy (EDX). This work complements earlier works on CdSe...sample shows only In2Se3 and CdIn2Se4 XRD peaks (Figure 1.4e), it is stoichiometrically   Figure 1.4. X - ray diffraction patterns of (a) γ-In2Se3

Dynamic relationship between neurostimulation and N-acetylaspartate metabolism in the human visual cortex: evidence that NAA functions as a molecular water pump during visual stimulation.

PubMed

Baslow, Morris H; Hrabe, Jan; Guilfoyle, David N

2007-01-01

N-acetyl-l-aspartic acid (NAA), an amino acid synthesized and stored primarily in neurons in the brain, has been proposed to be a molecular water pump (MWP) whose function is to rapidly remove water from neurons against a water gradient. In this communication, we describe the results of a functional (1)H proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (fMRS) study, and provide evidence that in the human visual cortex, over a 10-min period of visual stimulation, there are stimulation-induced graded changes in the NAA MRS signal from that of a preceding 10-min baseline period with a decline in the NAA signal of 13.1% by the end of the 10-min stimulation period. Upon cessation of visual stimulation, the NAA signal gradually increases during a 10-min recovery period and once again approaches the baseline level. Because the NAA MRS signal reflects the NAA concentration, these changes indicate rapid focal changes in its concentration, and transient changes in its intercompartmental metabolism. These include its rates of synthesis and efflux from neurons and its hydrolysis by oligodendrocytes. During stimulation, the apparent rate of NAA efflux and hydrolysis increased 14.2 times, from 0.55 to 7.8 micromol g(-1) h(-1). During recovery, the apparent rate of synthesis increased 13.3 times, from 0.55 to 7.3 micromol g(-1) h(-1). The decline in the NAA signal during stimulation suggests that a rapid increase in the rate of NAA-obligated water release to extracellular fluid (ECF) is the initial and seminal event in response to neurostimulation. It is concluded that the NAA metabolic cycle in the visual cortex is intimately linked to rates of neuronal signaling, and that the functional cycle of NAA is associated with its release to ECF, thus supporting the hypothesis that an important function of the NAA metabolic cycle is that of an efflux MWP.

Structure, wettability and thermal degradation of new fluoro-oligomer modified nanoclays.

PubMed

Valsecchi, R; Viganò, M; Levi, M; Turri, S

2008-04-01

Quaternary ammonium salts based on monofunctionalized Perfluoropolyether (PFPE) oligomers were synthesized and used for the cation exchange process of sodium Montmorillonite nanoclays. The new fluoromodified nanoclays were characterized through X-rays diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), termogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), electronic microscopy (SEM-EDS), and contact angle measurements (CA). In particular XRD showed rather complex patterns (presence of higher order reflections) which allowed the calculation of basal spacings, regularly increasing with the molecular weight of the fluorinated macrocation. Both IR and SEM confirmed the presence of fluorinated segments at clays interface, while TGA showed a limited thermal stability with an onset of degradation temperature which seems not dependent on the molecular weight of the macrocation. CA measurements showed a peculiar behaviour, with evident dynamic hysteresis phenomena and surface tension components quite different from those of commercially available, organomodified clays.

Investigation of tin oxide nanofibers synthesized via bio-template technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kundu, Virender Singh, E-mail: vskundu-kuk@rediffmail.com; Dhiman, Jonny; Kumar, Suresh

In the present paper tin oxide nanofibers have been by synthesized using cotton as bio-template via sol-gel route. This is comparatively a new synthesis technique. The structure and morphology of the obtained SnO{sub 2} nanofibers were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The optical properties of the same have been studied by using UV-Vis spectroscopy. The observed XRD pattern showed that peaks are very narrow and sharp which indicates crystalline nature of samples. SEM images gave an idea about the sample morphology and confirm that the obtained sample were nanofibers. The optical absorbancemore » spectrum of the sample under study was recorded in UV-visible region (200nm- 800nm). The band gap of the sample was found to be 3.95 eV which is higher than their bulk counterpart.« less

Microwave-assisted synthesis and characterization of nickel ferrite nanoparticles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carpenter, Gopal; Sen, Ravindra; Gupta, Nitish, E-mail: nitish.nidhi75@gmail.com

2015-08-28

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}) were successfully prepared by microwave-assisted combustion method (MWAC) using citric Electron acid as a chelating agent. NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, Scanning Microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and UV-Visible techniques. XRD analysis revealed that NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles have spinel cubic structure with the average crystalline size of 26.38 nm. SEM analysis revealed random and porous structural morphology of particles and FTIR showed absorption bands related to octahedral and tetrahedral sites, in the range 400–600cm{sup −1} which strongly favor the formation of NiFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} nanoparticles. The opticalmore » band gap is determined by UV Visible method and found to be 5.4 eV.« less

Characterization of minerals in air dust particles in the state of Tamilnadu, India through FTIR, XRD and SEM analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Senthil Kumar, R.; Rajkumar, P.

2014-11-01

The abstract of this paper explains the presence of minerals in air which causes great concern regarding public health issues. The spectroscopic investigation of air dust particles of several samples in various locations in the state of Tamilnadu, India is reported. Qualitative analyses were carried out to determine the major and minor constituent minerals present in the samples based on the FTIR, XRD absorption peaks. This study also identified the minerals like quartz, asbestos, kaolinite, calcite, hematite, montmorillonite, nacrite and several other trace minerals in the air dust particles. The presents of quartz is mainly found in all the samples invariably. Hence the percentage of quartz and its crystalline nature were determined with the help of extinction co-efficient and crystallinity index respectively. The shape and size of the particulates are studied with SEM analysis.

First oxygen from lunar basalt

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gibson, M. A.; Knudsen, C. W.; Brueneman, D. J.; Kanamori, H.; Ness, R. O.; Sharp, L. L.; Brekke, D. W.; Allen, C. C.; Morris, R. V.; Keller, L. P.

1993-01-01

The Carbotek/Shimizu process to produce oxygen from lunar soils has been successfully demonstrated on actual lunar samples in laboratory facilities at Carbotek with Shimizu funding and support. Apollo sample 70035 containing approximately 25 percent ilmenite (FeTiO3) was used in seven separate reactions with hydrogen varying temperature and pressure: FeTiO3 + H2 yields Fe + TiO2 + H2O. The experiments gave extremely encouraging results as all ilmenite was reduced in every experiment. The lunar ilmenite was found to be about twice as reactive as terrestrial ilmenite samples. Analytical techniques of the lunar and terrestrial ilmenite experiments performed by NASA Johnson Space Center include iron Mossbauer spectroscopy (FeMS), optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, and XRD. The Energy and Environmental Research Center at the University of North Dakota performed three SEM techniques (point count method, morphology determination, elemental mapping), XRD, and optical microscopy.

Properties of alginate fiber spun-dyed with fluorescent pigment dispersion.

PubMed

Wang, Ping; Tawiah, Benjamin; Tian, Anli; Wang, Chunxia; Zhang, Liping; Fu, Shaohai

2015-03-15

Spun-dyed alginate fiber was prepared by the spun-dyeing method with the mixture of fluorescent pigment dispersion and sodium alginate fiber spinning solution, and its properties were characterized by SEM, TGA, DSC, and XRD. The results indicate that fluorescent pigment dispersion prepared with esterified poly (styrene-alt maleic acid) had excellent compatibility with sodium alginate fiber spinning solution, and small amount of fluorescent pigment could reduce the viscosity of spun-dyed spinning solutions. SEM photo of spun-dyed alginate fiber indicated that fewer pigment particles deposited on its surface. TGA, DSC, and XRD results suggested that thermal properties and crystal phase of spun-dyed alginate fibers had slight changes compared to the original alginate fibers. The fluorescence intensity of spun-dyed alginate fiber reached its maximum when the content of fluorescent pigment was 4%. The spun-dyed alginate fiber showed excellent rubbing and washing fastness. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Processing and Characterization of Fe-Mn-Cu-Sn-C Alloys Prepared by Ball Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bączek, Elżbieta; Konstanty, Janusz; Romański, Andrzej; Podsiadło, Marcin; Cyboroń, Jolanta

2018-03-01

In this work, Fe-Mn-Cu-Sn-C alloys were prepared by means of powder metallurgy (PM). Powder mixtures were ball-milled for 8, 30 and 120 h and densified to < 1% porosity using spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 900 °C and 35 MPa. After consolidation, all samples of the Fe alloys were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), hardness and flexural strength tests. Resistance to abrasive wear was evaluated in both three-body abrasion and two-body abrasion tests. The SEM observations revealed an evident dependence of grain size and microstructural homogeneity on milling time. The XRD analysis showed a marked increase in austenite content in the as-sintered specimens with milling time. Although the proportion of deformation-induced martensite was small, the strengthening effect of abrasion on the subsurface layer of the investigated alloys was clearly indicated by Knoop hardness measurements.

Growth and Characterization of CuO Nanostructures on Si for the Fabrication of CuO/p-Si Schottky Diodes

PubMed Central

Çetinkaya, S.; Çetinkara, H. A.; Bayansal, F.; Kahraman, S.

2013-01-01

CuO interlayers in the CuO/p-Si Schottky diodes were fabricated by using CBD and sol-gel methods. Deposited CuO layers were characterized by SEM and XRD techniques. From the SEM images, it was seen that the film grown by CBD method is denser than the film grown by sol-gel method. This result is compatible with XRD results which show that the crystallization in CBD method is higher than it is in sol-gel method. For the electrical investigations, current-voltage characteristics of the diodes have been studied at room temperature. Conventional I-V and Norde's methods were used in order to determine the ideality factor, barrier height, and series resistance values. It was seen that the morphological and structural analysis are compatible with the results of electrical investigations. PMID:23766670

The effects of deposition parameters on surface morphology and crystallographic orientation of electroless Ni-B coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bulbul, Ferhat

2011-02-01

Electroless Ni-B coatings were deposited on AISI 304 stainless steels by electroless deposition method, which was performed for nine different test conditions at various levels of temperature, concentration of NaBH4, concentration of NiCl2, and time, using the Taguchi L9(34) experimental method. The effects of deposition parameters on the crystallographic orientation of electroless Ni-B coatings were investigated using SEM and XRD equipment. SEM analysis revealed that the Ni-B coatings developed six types (pea-like, maize-like, primary nodular, blackberry-like or grapes-like, broccoli-like, and cauliflower-like) of morphological structures depending on the deposition parameters. XRD results also showed that these structures exhibited different levels of amorphous character. The concentration of NaBH4 had the most dominant effect on the morphological and crystallographic development of electroless Ni-B coatings.

Microstructural, Optical and Dielectric Properties of Al-Incorporated SnO2 Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Ateeq; Tripathi, P.; Naseem Siddique, M.; Ali, Tinku

2017-08-01

In this work, Pure SnO2 and Al doped SnO2 nanoparticles with the composition Sn1-xAlxO2 (x = 0, and 0.05) have been successfully prepared using sol-gel technique. The effect of Al dopant on microstructural, optical and dielectric properties has been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Ultraviolet (UV-Visible) absorption spectroscopy andImpedance spectroscopy (LCR meter)respectively. The XRD patterns indicated tetragonal rutile structure with single phase without any detectable impurity for all samples and incorporation of Al ions into the SnO2 lattice. Crystalline size decreased with aluminum content. The results of SEM confirm nanoparticles size decreases with Al dopant. UV-Visible results showed that optical band also decreases when Al is doped into pure SnO2 lattice. Frequency dependent dielectric properties of pure and doped SnO2 nanoparticles have been also studied.

Determination of Microstructural Parameters of Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite Prepared by Mechanical Alloying Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joughehdoust, Sedigheh; Manafi, Sahebali

2011-12-01

Hydroxyapatite [HA, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] is chemically similar to the mineral component of bones and hard tissues. HA can support bone ingrowth and osseointegration when used in orthopaedic, dental and maxillofacial applications. In this research, HA nanostructure was synthesized by mechanical alloying method. Phase development, particle size and morphology of HA were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern, zetasizer instrument, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. XRD pattern has been used to determination of the microstructural parameters (crystallite size, lattice parameters and crystallinity percent) by Williamson-Hall equation, Nelson-Riley method and calculating the areas under the peaks, respectively. The crystallite size and particle size of HA powders were in nanometric scales. SEM images showed that some parts of HA particles have agglomerates. The ratio of lattice parameters of synthetic hydroxyapatite (c/a = 0.73) was determined in this study is the same as natural hydroxyapatite structure.

Third order nonlinear optical properties of Mn doped CeO2 nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mani Rahulan, K.; Angeline Little Flower, N.; Annie Sujatha, R.; Mohana Priya, P.; Gopalakrishnan, C.

2018-05-01

Mn doped CeO2 nanoparticles with different ratios of Mn were synthesized by hydrothermal method and their structural properties were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD patterns revealed that the peaks are highly crystalline structure with no segregation of Mn. The surface morphology from SEM reveals that particle size decreases with increase in Mn concentration. Nonlinear optical studies of the samples were measured by single-beam open aperture Z-scan technique using 5 ns laser pulses at 532 nm. The measured optical nonlinearity of all the samples exhibit typical third order nonlinear optical behavior including two-photon absorption (2 PA) and reverse saturable absorption (RSA). The experimental results show that the presence of RSA in these nanoparticles makes them a promising material for the fabrication of optical limiting devices. .

NAA-modified DNA oligonucleotides with zwitterionic backbones: stereoselective synthesis of A-T phosphoramidite building blocks.

PubMed

Schmidtgall, Boris; Höbartner, Claudia; Ducho, Christian

2015-01-01

Modifications of the nucleic acid backbone are essential for the development of oligonucleotide-derived bioactive agents. The NAA-modification represents a novel artificial internucleotide linkage which enables the site-specific introduction of positive charges into the otherwise polyanionic backbone of DNA oligonucleotides. Following initial studies with the introduction of the NAA-linkage at T-T sites, it is now envisioned to prepare NAA-modified oligonucleotides bearing the modification at X-T motifs (X = A, C, G). We have therefore developed the efficient and stereoselective synthesis of NAA-linked 'dimeric' A-T phosphoramidite building blocks for automated DNA synthesis. Both the (S)- and the (R)-configured NAA-motifs were constructed with high diastereoselectivities to furnish two different phosphoramidite reagents, which were employed for the solid phase-supported automated synthesis of two NAA-modified DNA oligonucleotides. This represents a significant step to further establish the NAA-linkage as a useful addition to the existing 'toolbox' of backbone modifications for the design of bioactive oligonucleotide analogues.

Process Parameters on the Crystallization and Morphology of Hydroxyapatite Powders Prepared by a Hydrolysis Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Moo-Chin; Hon, Min-Hsiung; Chen, Hui-Ting; Yen, Feng-Lin; Hung, I.-Ming; Ko, Horng-Huey; Shih, Wei-Jen

2013-07-01

The effects of process parameters on the crystallization and morphology of hydroxyapatite (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, HA) powders synthesized from dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (CaHPO4·2H2O, DCPD) using a hydrolysis method have been investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) were used to characterize the synthesized powders. When DCPD underwent hydrolysis in 2.5 NaOH solution (Na(aq)) at 303 K to 348 K (30 °C to 75 °C) for 1 hour, the XRD results revealed that HA was obtained for all the as-dried samples. The SEM morphology of the HA powders for DCPD hydrolysis produced at 348 K (75 °C) shows regular alignment and a short rod shape with a size of 200 nm in length and 50 nm in width. With DCPD hydrolysis in 2.5 M NaOH(aq) holding at 348 K (75 °C) for 1 to 24 hours, XRD results demonstrated that all samples were HA and no other phases could be detected. Moreover, the XRD results also show that all the as-dried powders still maintained the HA structure when DCPD underwent hydrolysis in 0.1 to 5 M NaOH(aq) at 348 K (75 °C) for 1 hour. Otherwise, the full transformation from HA to octa-calcium phosphate (OCP, Ca8H2(PO4)6·5H2O) occurred when hydrolysis happened in 10 M NaOH(aq). FT-IR spectra analysis revealed that some carbonated HA (Ca10(PO4)6(CO3), CHA) had formed. The SEM morphology results show that the 60 to 65 nm width of the uniformly long rods with regular alignment formed in the HA powder aggregates when DCPD underwent hydrolysis in 2.5 M NaOH(aq) at 348 K (75 °C) for 1 hour.

Evaluation of mechanical property and bioactivity of nano-bioglass 45S5 scaffold coated with poly-3-hydroxybutyrate.

PubMed

Montazeri, Mahbobeh; Karbasi, Saeed; Foroughi, Mohammad Reza; Monshi, Ahmad; Ebrahimi-Kahrizsangi, Reza

2015-02-01

One of the major challenges facing researchers of tissue engineering is scaffold design with desirable physical and mechanical properties for growth and proliferation of cells and tissue formation. In this research, firstly, nano-bioglass powder with grain sizes of 55-56 nm was prepared by melting method of industrial raw materials at 1,400 °C. Then the porous ceramic scaffold of bioglass with 30, 40 and 50 wt% was prepared by using the polyurethane sponge replication method. The scaffolds were coated with poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) for 30 s and 1 min in order to increase the scaffold's mechanical properties. XRD, XRF, SEM, FE-SEM and FT-IR were used for phase and component studies, morphology, particle size and determination of functional groups, respectively. XRD and XRF results showed that the type of the produced bioglass was 45S5. The results of XRD and FT-IR showed that the best temperature to produce bioglass scaffold was 600 °C, in which Na2Ca2Si3O9 crystal is obtained. By coating the scaffolds with P3HB, a composite scaffold with optimal porosity of 80-87% in 200-600 μm and compression strength of 0.1-0.53 MPa was obtained. According to the results of compressive strength and porosity tests, the best kind of scaffold was produced with 30 wt% of bioglass immersed for 1 min in P3HB. To evaluate the bioactivity of the scaffold, the SBF solution was used. The selected scaffold (30 wt% bioglass/6 wt% P3HB) was maintained for up to 4 weeks in this solution at an incubation temperature of 37 °C. The XRD, SEM EDXA and AAS tests were indicative of hydroxyapatite formation on the surface of bioactive scaffold. This scaffold has some potential to use in bone tissue engineering.

Association between Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Measurements and CAG Repeat Number in Patients with Spinocerebellar Ataxias 2, 3, or 6

PubMed Central

Wang, Po-Shan; Chen, Hung-Chieh; Wu, Hsiu-Mei; Lirng, Jiing-Feng; Wu, Yu-Te; Soong, Bing-Wen

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to correlate magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) measurements, including that for the N-acetyl aspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr) ratio in the vermis (denoted V-NAA), right cerebellar hemisphere (R-NAA), and left (L-NAA) cerebellar hemisphere, with the clinical scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA) score for patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) types 2, 3, and 6. A total of 24 patients with SCA2, 48 with SCA3, and 16 with SCA6 were recruited; 12 patients with SCA2, 43 with SCA3, and 8 with SCA6 underwent detailed magnetic resonance neuroimaging. Forty-four healthy, age-matched individuals without history of neurologic disease served as control subjects. V-NAA and patient age were used to calculate the predicted age at which a patient with SCA2 or SCA3 would reach an onset V-NAA value. Results showed the following: the NAA/Cr ratio decreased with increasing age in patients with SCA but not in control subjects; the SARA score increased progressively with age and duration of illness; V-NAA showed a better correlation with SARA score than R-NAA in patients with SCA2 or SCA3; the ratio of age to V-NAA correlated well with CAG repeat number; the retrospectively predicted age of onset for SCA2 and SCA3 was consistent with patient-reported age of onset; R-NAA showed a better correlation with SARA score than V-NAA in patients with SCA6; V-NAA and R-NAA correlated with clinical severity (SARA score) in patients with SCA. The correlation between CAG repeat number and age could be expressed as a simple linear function, which might explain previous observations claiming that the greater the CAG repeat number, the earlier the onset of illness and the faster the disease progression. These findings support the use of MRS values to predict age of disease onset and to retrospectively evaluate the actual age of disease onset in SCA. PMID:23094053

Crystal Structure of the Golgi-Associated Human Nα-Acetyltransferase 60 Reveals the Molecular Determinants for Substrate-Specific Acetylation.

PubMed

Støve, Svein Isungset; Magin, Robert S; Foyn, Håvard; Haug, Bengt Erik; Marmorstein, Ronen; Arnesen, Thomas

2016-07-06

N-Terminal acetylation is a common and important protein modification catalyzed by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs). Six human NATs (NatA-NatF) contain one catalytic subunit each, Naa10 to Naa60, respectively. In contrast to the ribosome-associated NatA to NatE, NatF/Naa60 specifically associates with Golgi membranes and acetylates transmembrane proteins. To gain insight into the molecular basis for the function of Naa60, we developed an Naa60 bisubstrate CoA-peptide conjugate inhibitor, determined its X-ray structure when bound to CoA and inhibitor, and carried out biochemical experiments. We show that Naa60 adapts an overall fold similar to that of the catalytic subunits of ribosome-associated NATs, but with the addition of two novel elongated loops that play important roles in substrate-specific binding. One of these loops mediates a dimer to monomer transition upon substrate-specific binding. Naa60 employs a catalytic mechanism most similar to Naa50. Collectively, these data reveal the molecular basis for Naa60-specific acetyltransferase activity with implications for its Golgi-specific functions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) correlates inversely with cannabis use in a frontal language processing region of neocortex in MDMA (Ecstasy) polydrug users: a 3 T magnetic resonance spectroscopy study.

PubMed

Cowan, Ronald L; Joers, James M; Dietrich, Mary S

2009-03-01

Impaired verbal memory is common in MDMA (Ecstasy) polydrug users. The contributions of Ecstasy or polydrug exposure to reduced verbal memory are unclear, as is the neural basis for this cognitive deficit. Ecstasy users have reduced gray matter in brain regions mediating verbal memory (BA 18, 21 and 45). N-acetylaspartate (NAA) as a neuronal marker and myoinositol (mI) as a glial marker are inconsistently affected in Ecstasy users. We used 3 T MRS in 17 recreational drug users to test the hypothesis that Ecstasy polydrug use would be associated with altered NAA or mI in BA 18, 21 and 45. No effects were seen for mI. Metabolite ratios for NAA (mean+/-SD) were: BA 18-NAA/Cr (2.030+/-0.188); BA 21-NAA/Cr (1.861+/-0.325); BA 45-NAA/Cr (1.925+/-0.329). Lifetime cannabis use was significantly associated with BA 45 NAA/Cr (r=-0.687, p=0.014) but not with NAA in BA 18 or 21. In contrast, there were no statistically significant associations for lifetime use of Ecstasy, alcohol, or cocaine with NAA. These findings suggest that cannabis use may contribute to altered neuronal integrity in Ecstasy polydrug users in a brain region associated with verbal memory processing.

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) correlates inversely with cannabis use in a frontal language processing region of neocortex in MDMA (Ecstasy) Polydrug Users: a 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study

PubMed Central

Cowan, Ronald L; Joers, James M; Dietrich, Mary S

2015-01-01

Impaired verbal memory is common in MDMA (Ecstasy) polydrug users. The contributions of Ecstasy or polydrug exposure to reduced verbal memory are unclear, as is the neural basis for this cognitive deficit. Ecstasy users have reduced gray matter in brain regions mediating verbal memory (BA 18, 21 and 45). N-acetylaspartate (NAA) as a neuronal marker and myoinositol (mI) as a glial marker are inconsistently affected in Ecstasy users. We used 3 Tesla MRS in 17 recreational drug users to test the hypothesis that Ecstasy polydrug use would be associated with altered NAA or mI in BA 18, 21 and 45. No effects were seen for mI. Metabolite ratios for NAA (mean ± SD) were: BA 18--NAA/Cr (2.030 ± 0.188); BA 21--NAA/Cr (1.861 ± 0.325); BA 45--NAA/Cr (1.925 ± 0.329). Lifetime cannabis use was significantly associated with BA 45 NAA/Cr (r = −0.687, p = 0.014) but not with NAA in BA 18 or 21. In contrast, there were no statistically significant associations for lifetime use of Ecstasy, alcohol, or cocaine with NAA. These findings suggest that cannabis use may contribute to altered neuronal integrity in Ecstasy polydrug users in a brain region associated with verbal memory processing. PMID:19032963

Extracellular N-Acetylaspartate in Human Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Shannon, Richard J.; Carter, Eleanor L.; Jalloh, Ibrahim; Menon, David K.; Hutchinson, Peter J.; Carpenter, Keri L.H.

2016-01-01

Abstract N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is an amino acid derivative primarily located in the neurons of the adult brain. The function of NAA is incompletely understood. Decrease in brain tissue NAA is presently considered symptomatic and a potential biomarker of acute and chronic neuropathological conditions. The aim of this study was to use microdialysis to investigate the behavior of extracellular NAA (eNAA) levels after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Sampling for this study was performed using cerebral microdialysis catheters (M Dialysis 71) perfused at 0.3 μL/min. Extracellular NAA was measured in microdialysates by high-performance liquid chromatography in 30 patients with severe TBI and for comparison, in radiographically “normal” areas of brain in six non-TBI neurosurgical patients. We established a detailed temporal eNAA profile in eight of the severe TBI patients. Microdialysate concentrations of glucose, lactate, pyruvate, glutamate, and glycerol were measured on an ISCUS clinical microdialysis analyzer. Here, we show that the temporal profile of microdialysate eNAA was characterized by highest levels in the earliest time-points post-injury, followed by a steady decline; beyond 70 h post-injury, average levels were 40% lower than those measured in non-TBI patients. There was a significant inverse correlation between concentrations of eNAA and pyruvate; eNAA showed significant positive correlations with glycerol and the lactate/pyruvate (L/P) ratio measured in microdialysates. The results of this on-going study suggest that changes in eNAA after TBI relate to the release of intracellular components, possibly due to neuronal death or injury, as well as to adverse brain energy metabolism. PMID:26159566

N-Acetylaspartate Reduction in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex Following 8 weeks of Risperidone Treatment in First-Episode Drug-Naïve Schizophrenia Patients

PubMed Central

Zong, Xiaofen; Hu, Maolin; Li, Zongchang; Cao, Hongbao; He, Ying; Liao, Yanhui; Zhou, Jun; Sang, Deen; Zhao, Hongzeng; Tang, Jinsong; Lv, Luxian; Chen, Xiaogang

2015-01-01

It is unclear whether N-acetylaspartate (NAA) depletions documented in schizophrenia patients might be due to the disease progression or medications. Here we investigated longitudinal NAA changes in drug-naïve first-episode patients (FEP) who are relatively free from chronicity. Forty-two drug-naïve FEP and 38 controls were enrolled in this study to explore the effect of 8-week risperidone monotherapy on NAA. All spectra were obtained from the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) on a 3.0 T MRI and analyzed with LCModel. At baseline, patients presented no significant differences in NAA (P = 0.084) or NAA/Cr + Pcr (P = 0.500) compared to controls; NAA levels were negatively correlated with PANSS total scores (P = 0.001) and WCST-PE (P = 0.041). After treatment, patients demonstrated significant reductions of NAA (P < 0.001) and NAA/Cr + Pcr (P < 0.001), and significant improvement in PANSS-P (P < 0.001) and PANSS-G (P < 0.001) symptoms. We detected no significant correlations between NAA alterations and PANSS-P (P = 0.679) or PANSS-G (P = 0.668) symptom changes; nor did NAA/Cr + Pcr changes with alterations in PANSS-P (P = 0.677) and PANSS-G (P = 0.616). This is the first evidence that short-term risperidone treatment induces an acute reduction of MPFC NAA during the early phase of schizophrenia, which may be a previously unavailable biomarker to indicate risperidone with a similar pharmacological mechanism, although the functional significance is still unclear. PMID:25778460

Mechanisms of uranium interactions with hydroxyapatite: Implications for groundwater remediation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fuller, C.C.; Bargar, J.R.; Davis, J.A.; Piana, M.J.

2002-01-01

The speciation of U(VI) sorbed to synthetic hydroxyapatite was investigated using a combination of U LIII-edge XAS, synchrotron XRD, batch uptake measurements, and SEM-EDS. The mechanisms of U(VI) removal by apatite were determined in order to evaluate the feasibility of apatitebased in-situ permeable reactive barriers (PRBs). In batch U(VI) uptake experiments with synthetic hydroxyapatite (HA), near complete removal of dissolved uranium (>99.5%) to <0.05 ??M was observed over a range of total U(VI) concentrations up to equimolar of the total P in the suspension. XRD and XAS analyses of U(VI)-reacted HA at sorbed concentrations ???4700 ppm U(VI) suggested that uranium(VI) phosphate, hydroxide, and carbonate solids were not present at these concentrations. Fits to EXAFS spectra indicate the presence of Ca neighbors at 3.81 A??. U-Ca separation, suggesting that U(VI) adsorbs to the HA surfaces as an inner-sphere complex. Uranium(VI) phosphate solid phases were not detected in HA with 4700 ppm sorbed U(VI) by backscatter SEM or EDS, in agreement with the surface complexation process. In contrast, U(VI) speciation in samples that exceeded 7000 ppm sorbed U(VI) included a crystalline uranium(VI) phosphate solid phase, identified as chernikovite by XRD. At these higher concentrations, a secondary, uranium(VI) phosphate solid was detected by SEM-EDS, consistent with chernikovite precipitation. Autunite formation occurred at total U:P molar ratios ???0.2. Our findings provide a basis for evaluating U(VI) sorption mechanisms by commercially available natural apatites for use in development of PRBs for groundwater U(VI) remediation.

A Mössbauer spectral study of degradation in La 0.58Sr 0.4Fe 0.5Co 0.5O 3–x after long-term operation in solid oxide electrolysis cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mahmoud, Abdelfattah; Daroukh, Mahmoud Al; Lipinska-Chwalek, Marta

Here, degradation processes of oxygen electrodes in solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Mössbauer spectroscopy. La 0.58Sr 0.4Fe 0.5Co 0.5O 3–x (LSCF) anodes (oxygen electrode) were analyzed after different long-term operations durations of 1774, 6100 and 9000 h. The results were compared with a cell in the initial state. Besides the LSCF anode, the SOECs were composed of a Ce 0.8Gd 0.2O 1.9 barrier layer between the anode and electrolyte, yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) as electrolyte and Ni-YSZ as cathode (hydrogen electrode). Mössbauer spectra of the iron-containingmore » anode were acquired in order to determine the alteration of the iron oxidation state and its local environment during operation. Mössbauer spectroscopy yields indirect information about the degradation mechanism, especially in combination with SEM, TEM, and XRD. XRD and TEM revealed the appearance of Co 3O 4 during the SOEC operation and SEM analyses confirmed the formation of SrZrO 3 at the electrode/electrolyte interface. The spectral analysis confirmed the reduction of iron from Fe(IV) to Fe(III) in LSCF after long-term operation. The fraction of Fe(IV) in the electrode decreased with time and 18, 15, 13 and 11% were obtained for 0, 1774, 6100, and 9000 h of operation, respectively.« less

A Mössbauer spectral study of degradation in La 0.58Sr 0.4Fe 0.5Co 0.5O 3–x after long-term operation in solid oxide electrolysis cells

DOE PAGES

Mahmoud, Abdelfattah; Daroukh, Mahmoud Al; Lipinska-Chwalek, Marta; ...

2017-10-21

Here, degradation processes of oxygen electrodes in solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Mössbauer spectroscopy. La 0.58Sr 0.4Fe 0.5Co 0.5O 3–x (LSCF) anodes (oxygen electrode) were analyzed after different long-term operations durations of 1774, 6100 and 9000 h. The results were compared with a cell in the initial state. Besides the LSCF anode, the SOECs were composed of a Ce 0.8Gd 0.2O 1.9 barrier layer between the anode and electrolyte, yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) as electrolyte and Ni-YSZ as cathode (hydrogen electrode). Mössbauer spectra of the iron-containingmore » anode were acquired in order to determine the alteration of the iron oxidation state and its local environment during operation. Mössbauer spectroscopy yields indirect information about the degradation mechanism, especially in combination with SEM, TEM, and XRD. XRD and TEM revealed the appearance of Co 3O 4 during the SOEC operation and SEM analyses confirmed the formation of SrZrO 3 at the electrode/electrolyte interface. The spectral analysis confirmed the reduction of iron from Fe(IV) to Fe(III) in LSCF after long-term operation. The fraction of Fe(IV) in the electrode decreased with time and 18, 15, 13 and 11% were obtained for 0, 1774, 6100, and 9000 h of operation, respectively.« less

Structural, morphological and interfacial characterization of Al-Mg/TiC composites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Contreras, A.; Angeles-Chavez, C.; Flores, O.

2007-08-15

Morphological and structural characterization of Al-Mg/TiC composites obtained by infiltration process and wetting by the sessile drop technique were studied. Focusing at the interface, wetting of TiC substrates by molten Al-Mg-alloys at 900 deg. C was investigated. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) indicated that aluminum carbide (Al{sub 4}C{sub 3}) is formed at the interface and traces of TiAl{sub 3} in the wetting assemblies were detected. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observations show that TiC particles do not appear to be uniformly attacked to produce a continuous layer of Al{sub 4}C{sub 3} at the interface. Molten Al-Mg-alloys were infiltrated into TiC preforms withmore » flowing argon at a temperature of 900 deg. C. In the composites no reaction phase was observed by SEM. Quantification of the Al phase in the composite was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Rietveld analysis. Chemical mapping analyzed by SEM shows that the Al-Mg alloy surrounds TiC particles. In the composites with 20 wt.% of Mg the Al-Mg-{beta} phase was detected through XRD.« less

Physicochemical characterization of Capstone depleted uranium aerosols III: morphologic and chemical oxide analyses.

PubMed

Krupka, Kenneth M; Parkhurst, Mary Ann; Gold, Kenneth; Arey, Bruce W; Jenson, Evan D; Guilmette, Raymond A

2009-03-01

The impact of depleted uranium (DU) penetrators against an armored target causes erosion and fragmentation of the penetrators, the extent of which is dependent on the thickness and material composition of the target. Vigorous oxidation of the DU particles and fragments creates an aerosol of DU oxide particles and DU particle agglomerations combined with target materials. Aerosols from the Capstone DU aerosol study, in which vehicles were perforated by DU penetrators, were evaluated for their oxidation states using x-ray diffraction (XRD), and particle morphologies were examined using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The oxidation state of a DU aerosol is important as it offers a clue to its solubility in lung fluids. The XRD analysis showed that the aerosols evaluated were a combination primarily of U3O8 (insoluble) and UO3 (relatively more soluble) phases, though intermediate phases resembling U4O9 and other oxides were prominent in some samples. Analysis of particle residues in the micrometer-size range by SEM/EDS provided microstructural information such as phase composition and distribution, fracture morphology, size distribution, and material homogeneity. Observations from SEM analysis show a wide variability in the shapes of the DU particles. Some of the larger particles were spherical, occasionally with dendritic or lobed surface structures. Others appear to have fractures that perhaps resulted from abrasion and comminution, or shear bands that developed from plastic deformation of the DU material. Amorphous conglomerates containing metals other than uranium were also common, especially with the smallest particle sizes. A few samples seemed to contain small bits of nearly pure uranium metal, which were verified by EDS to have a higher uranium content exceeding that expected for uranium oxides. Results of the XRD and SEM/EDS analyses were used in other studies described in this issue of Health Physics to interpret the results of lung solubility studies and in selecting input parameters for dose assessments.

Physicochemical Characterization of Capstone Depleted Uranium Aerosols III: Morphologic and Chemical Oxide Analyses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krupka, Kenneth M.; Parkhurst, MaryAnn; Gold, Kenneth

2009-03-01

The impact of depleted uranium (DU) penetrators against an armored target causes erosion and fragmentation of the penetrators, the extent of which is dependent on the thickness and material composition of the target. Vigorous oxidation of the DU particles and fragments creates an aerosol of DU oxide particles and DU particle agglomerations combined with target materials. Aerosols from the Capstone DU aerosol study, in which vehicles were perforated by DU penetrators, were evaluated for their oxidation states using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and particle morphologies using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS). The oxidation state of a DU aerosol is importantmore » as it offers a clue to its solubility in lung fluids. The XRD analysis showed that the aerosols evaluated were a combination primarily of U3O8 (insoluble) and UO3 (relatively more soluble) phases, though intermediate phases resembling U4O9 and other oxides were prominent in some samples. Analysis of particle residues in the micrometer-size range by SEM/EDS provided microstructural information such as phase composition and distribution, fracture morphology, size distribution, and material homogeneity. Observations from SEM analysis show a wide variability in the shapes of the DU particles. Some of the larger particles appear to have been fractured (perhaps as a result of abrasion and comminution); others were spherical, occasionally with dendritic or lobed surface structures. Amorphous conglomerates containing metals other than uranium were also common, especially with the smallest particle sizes. A few samples seemed to contain small chunks of nearly pure uranium metal, which were verified by EDS to have a higher uranium content exceeding that expected for uranium oxides. Results of the XRD and SEM/EDS analyses were used in other studies described in this issue of The Journal of Health Physics to interpret the results of lung solubility studies and in selecting input parameters for dose assessments.« less

DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM SOLIDS - A RESEARCH APPROACH

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. EPA's AWBERC research facility is equipped with capabilities to analyze a variety of solids in support many Laboratory-wide research studies. Techniques available on site include X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microsco...

Decrease of NAA with aging outside the seizure focus in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy--a proton-MRS study at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Riederer, Franz; Bittsanský, Michal; Lehner-Baumgartner, Eva; Baumgartner, Christoph; Mlynárik, Vladimír; Gruber, Stephan; Moser, Ewald; Kaya, Marihan; Serles, Wolfgang

2007-11-07

There is evidence that chronic pharmacoresistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a progressive disorder accompanied by mental deterioration. We investigated effects of aging on cerebral N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) concentrations in the temporal lobe of 12 patients with pharmacoresistant mesial TLE (mTLE) and 22 healthy controls by means of proton-magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) at 3 T. Furthermore, we calculated correlations between NAA concentrations and measures of verbal and figural memory in patients. In mTLE patients but not in healthy controls the concentration of NAA in the lateral temporal lobe was negatively correlated with age. In patients with mTLE NAA in left lateral temporal voxels correlated with verbal memory. NAA in medial temporal voxels did not correlate with age or neuropsychological measures. Significant decrease of NAA with age in the lateral temporal lobe of patients with mTLE provides evidence for progressive neuronal dysfunction with aging. NAA is a marker of neuronal integrity since it correlates with verbal memory.

Reproducibility over a 1-month period of 1H-MR spectroscopic imaging NAA/Cr ratios in clinically stable multiple sclerosis patients.

PubMed

Mostert, J P; Blaauw, Y; Koch, M W; Kuiper, A J; Hoogduin, J M; De Keyser, J

2008-08-01

N-acetylaspartate/creatine (NAA/Cr) ratios, assessed with proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, are increasingly used as a surrogate marker for axonal dysfunction and degeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this study was to test short-time reproducibility of NAA/Cr ratios in patients with clinically stable MS. In 35 MS patients we analysed NAA/Cr ratios obtained with (1)H-MR spectroscopic imaging at the centrum semiovale either with lateral ventricles partially included (group 1; n=15) or more cranially with no ventricles included (group 2; n=20). To test short-term reproducibility of the NAA/Cr measurements, patients were scanned twice 4 weeks apart. We determined mean NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios of 12 grey matter and 24 white matter voxels. Mean NAA/Cr ratios of both the white and grey matter did not change after 4 weeks. Overall 4-week reproducibility of the NAA/Cr ratio, expressed as coefficient of variation, was 4.8% for grey matter and 3.5% for white matter. Reproducibility of cranial scanning of the ventricles was slightly better than with cerebrospinal fluid included. Our study shows good short-term reproducibility of NAA/Cr ratio measurements in the centrum semiovale, which supports the reliability of this technique for longitudinal studies.

Reduced concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and the NAA-creatine ratio in the basal ganglia in bipolar disorder: a study using 3-Tesla proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

PubMed

Frye, Mark A; Thomas, M Albert; Yue, Kenneth; Binesh, Nader; Davanzo, Pablo; Ventura, Joseph; O'Neill, Joseph; Guze, Barry; Curran, John G; Mintz, Jim

2007-04-15

The N-acetylaspartate (NAA) peak is prominent in the proton magnetic resonance spectrum and is thought to reflect neuron loss or dysfunction. This study was conducted to explore NAA biochemistry and its clinical correlates in mania. Subjects comprised 16 manic patients and 17 controls who underwent a structured diagnostic interview and (1)H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) acquisition. STEAM (1)H MRS (TR/TE/TM=2000/20/8 ms) was acquired at 3 Tesla from 2 x 2 x 2 cm(3) voxels in anterior cingulate (AC), right basal ganglia (BG), and left occipital-parietal white matter (OP). Absolute metabolite concentrations and ratios to creatine were calculated using the LC Model. The mean absolute concentrations of NAA and NAA-creatine ratio in the BG were significantly lower in manic subjects than in controls. There was a significant inverse correlation between NAA in the BG and the number of prior hospitalizations for mania. These data suggest BG pathology in mania and that NAA decrements may mark prior manic episode burden. Limitations of this study include small sample size and lack of tissue segmentation. Further study is encouraged to clarify state vs. trait aspects of NAA in bipolar disorder.

hNaa10p contributes to tumorigenesis by facilitating DNMT1-mediated tumor suppressor gene silencing

PubMed Central

Lee, Chung-Fan; Ou, Derick S.-C.; Lee, Sung-Bau; Chang, Liang-Hao; Lin, Ruo-Kai; Li, Ying-Shiuan; Upadhyay, Anup K.; Cheng, Xiaodong; Wang, Yi-Ching; Hsu, Han-Shui; Hsiao, Michael; Wu, Cheng-Wen; Juan, Li-Jung

2010-01-01

Hypermethylation-mediated tumor suppressor gene silencing plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis. Understanding its underlying mechanism is essential for cancer treatment. Previous studies on human N-α-acetyltransferase 10, NatA catalytic subunit (hNaa10p; also known as human arrest-defective 1 [hARD1]), have generated conflicting results with regard to its role in tumorigenesis. Here we provide multiple lines of evidence indicating that it is oncogenic. We have shown that hNaa10p overexpression correlated with poor survival of human lung cancer patients. In vitro, enforced expression of hNaa10p was sufficient to cause cellular transformation, and siRNA-mediated depletion of hNaa10p impaired cancer cell proliferation in colony assays and xenograft studies. The oncogenic potential of hNaa10p depended on its interaction with DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). Mechanistically, hNaa10p positively regulated DNMT1 enzymatic activity by facilitating its binding to DNA in vitro and its recruitment to promoters of tumor suppressor genes, such as E-cadherin, in vivo. Consistent with this, interaction between hNaa10p and DNMT1 was required for E-cadherin silencing through promoter CpG methylation, and E-cadherin repression contributed to the oncogenic effects of hNaa10p. Together, our data not only establish hNaa10p as an oncoprotein, but also reveal that it contributes to oncogenesis through modulation of DNMT1 function. PMID:20592467

Increasing N-acetylaspartate in the Brain during Postnatal Myelination Does Not Cause the CNS Pathologies of Canavan Disease

PubMed Central

Appu, Abhilash P.; Moffett, John R.; Arun, Peethambaran; Moran, Sean; Nambiar, Vikram; Krishnan, Jishnu K. S.; Puthillathu, Narayanan; Namboodiri, Aryan M. A.

2017-01-01

Canavan disease is caused by mutations in the gene encoding aspartoacylase (ASPA), a deacetylase that catabolizes N-acetylaspartate (NAA). The precise involvement of elevated NAA in the pathogenesis of Canavan disease is an ongoing debate. In the present study, we tested the effects of elevated NAA in the brain during postnatal development. Mice were administered high doses of the hydrophobic methyl ester of NAA (M-NAA) twice daily starting on day 7 after birth. This treatment increased NAA levels in the brain to those observed in the brains of Nur7 mice, an established model of Canavan disease. We evaluated various serological parameters, oxidative stress, inflammatory and neurodegeneration markers and the results showed that there were no pathological alterations in any measure with increased brain NAA levels. We examined oxidative stress markers, malondialdehyde content (indicator of lipid peroxidation), expression of NADPH oxidase and nuclear translocation of the stress-responsive transcription factor nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF-2) in brain. We also examined additional pathological markers by immunohistochemistry and the expression of activated caspase-3 and interleukin-6 by Western blot. None of the markers were increased in the brains of M-NAA treated mice, and no vacuoles were observed in any brain region. These results show that ASPA expression prevents the pathologies associated with excessive NAA concentrations in the brain during postnatal myelination. We hypothesize that the pathogenesis of Canavan disease involves not only disrupted NAA metabolism, but also excessive NAA related signaling processes in oligodendrocytes that have not been fully determined and we discuss some of the potential mechanisms. PMID:28626388

Role of diffusion tensor imaging or magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the diagnosis and disability assessment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Liu, Chanchan; Jiang, Rifeng; Yi, Xiyan; Zhu, Wenzhen; Bu, Bitao

2015-01-15

To compare the results of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. Nineteen ALS patients and thirteen age-matched healthy controls underwent MRS and DTI between October 2013 and July 2014. Fractional anisotropy (FA), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline (Cho), and creatine (Cr) were collected as the quantitative results of the imaging study. The ALS functional rating scale-revised (ALSFRS-R) and disease progression rate were evaluated to assess patients' disability. The imaging study results were compared between ALS patients and healthy controls. The relationship between disability assessment and imaging study results was analyzed. NAA/Cr in the motor cortex and FA in the corticospinal tract (CST) of both sides were significantly lower in patients than controls. There was no significant difference between the two groups in Cho/Cr, tract length, tract volume, ADC or NAA. No relationship was found between ALSFRS-R and FA (r=0.243, p=0.316) in the right CST; NAA (r=0.095, p=0.699) or NAA/Cr (r=0.172, p=0.481) in the left motor cortex; or NAA (r=0.320, p=0.182) or NAA/Cr (r=0.193, p=0.492) in the right motor cortex. There was no relationship between the disease progression rate and FA, NAA, or NAA/Cr on either side. NAA/Cr and FA can help diagnose ALS. Regional brain NAA/Cr and FA values could not assess the ALSFRS-R or disease progression rate. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fabrication and Optimization of Bilayered Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Structures as Multi-Point Interferometric Sensing Platform

PubMed Central

Nemati, Mahdieh; Santos, Abel

2018-01-01

Herein, we present an innovative strategy for optimizing hierarchical structures of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) to advance their optical sensing performance toward multi-analyte biosensing. This approach is based on the fabrication of multilayered NAA and the formation of differential effective medium of their structure by controlling three fabrication parameters (i.e., anodization steps, anodization time, and pore widening time). The rationale of the proposed concept is that interferometric bilayered NAA (BL-NAA), which features two layers of different pore diameters, can provide distinct reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) signatures for each layer within the NAA structure and can therefore potentially be used for multi-point biosensing. This paper presents the structural fabrication of layered NAA structures, and the optimization and evaluation of their RIfS optical sensing performance through changes in the effective optical thickness (EOT) using quercetin as a model molecule. The bilayered or funnel-like NAA structures were designed with the aim of characterizing the sensitivity of both layers of quercetin molecules using RIfS and exploring the potential of these photonic structures, featuring different pore diameters, for simultaneous size-exclusion and multi-analyte optical biosensing. The sensing performance of the prepared NAA platforms was examined by real-time screening of binding reactions between human serum albumin (HSA)-modified NAA (i.e., sensing element) and quercetin (i.e., analyte). BL-NAAs display a complex optical interference spectrum, which can be resolved by fast Fourier transform (FFT) to monitor the EOT changes, where three distinctive peaks were revealed corresponding to the top, bottom, and total layer within the BL-NAA structures. The spectral shifts of these three characteristic peaks were used as sensing signals to monitor the binding events in each NAA pore in real-time upon exposure to different concentrations of quercetin. The multi-point sensing performance of BL-NAAs was determined for each pore layer, with an average sensitivity and low limit of detection of 600 nm (mg mL−1)−1 and 0.14 mg mL−1, respectively. BL-NAAs photonic structures have the capability to be used as platforms for multi-point RIfS sensing of biomolecules that can be further extended for simultaneous size-exclusion separation and multi-analyte sensing using these bilayered nanostructures. PMID:29415436

Studies on the Role of N-Acetylaspartic Acid in Mammalian Brain

PubMed Central

Jacobson, K. Bruce

1959-01-01

N-Acetylaspartic acid (NAA) occurs at relatively high concentrations exclusively in the mammalian and avian brain and undergoes rapid rise in level soon after birth (Tallan, 1957). The amount of NAA in brains of mentally abnormal human beings and of young human beings was measured. The route by which NAA is synthesized was shown to involve a direct acetylation of aspartic acid. The degradative activity of the brain toward NAA is slight. Some experiments indicate that NAA in the brain is a physiologically and metabolically active compound. PMID:14406413

Summary of Blast Shield and Material Testing for Development of Solid Debris Collection at the National Ignition Facility (NIF)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shaughnessy, D A; Gostic, J M; Moody, K J

2011-11-21

The ability to collect solid debris from the target chamber following a NIF shot has application for both capsule diagnostics, particularly for fuel-ablator mix, and measuring cross sections relevant to the Stockpile Stewardship program and nuclear astrophysics. Simulations have shown that doping the capsule with up to 10{sup 15} atoms of an impurity not otherwise found in the capsule does not affect its performance. The dopant is an element that will undergo nuclear activations during the NIF implosion, forming radioactive species that can be collected and measured after extraction from the target chamber. For diagnostics, deuteron or alpha induced reactionsmore » can be used to probe the fuel-ablator mix. For measuring neutron cross sections, the dopant should be something that is sensitive to the 14 MeV neutrons produced through the fusion of deuterium and tritium. Developing the collector is a challenge due to the extreme environment of the NIF chamber. The collector surface is exposed to a large photon flux from x-rays and unconverted laser light before it is exposed to a debris wind that is formed from vaporized material from the target chamber center. The photons will ablate the collector surface to some extent, possibly impeding the debris from reaching the collector and sticking. In addition, the collector itself must be mechanically strong enough to withstand the large amount of energy it will be exposed to, and it should be something that will be easy to count and chemically process. In order to select the best material for the collector, a variety of different metals have been tested in the NIF chamber. They were exposed to high-energy laser shots in order to evaluate their postshot surface characterization, morphology, degree of melt, and their ability to retain debris from the chamber center. The first set of samples consisted of 1 mm thick pieces of aluminum that had been fielded in the chamber as blast shields protecting the neutron activation diagnostic. Ten of these pieces were fielded at the equator and one was fielded on the pole. The shields were analyzed using a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), neutron activation analysis (NAA) and chemical leaching followed by mass spectrometry. On each shield, gold debris originating from the gold hohlraum was observed, as well as large quantities of debris that were present in the center of the target chamber at the time of the shot (i.e., stainless steel, indium, copper, etc.) Debris was visible in the SEM as large blobs or splats of material that had encountered the surface of the aluminum and stuck. The aluminum itself had obviously melted and condensed, and some of the large debris splats arrived after the surface had already hardened. Melt depth was determined by cross sectioning the pieces and measuring the melted surface layers via SEM. After the SEM analysis was completed, the pieces were sent for NAA at the USGS reactor and were analyzed by U. Greife at the Colorado School of Mines. The NAA showed that the majority of gold mass present on the shields was not in the form of large blobs and splats, but was present as small particulates that had most likely formed as condensed vapor. Further analysis showed that the gold was entrained in the melted aluminum surface layers and did not extend down into the bulk of the aluminum. Once the gold mass was accounted for from the NAA, it was determined that the aluminum fielded at the equator was collecting a fraction of the total gold hohlraum mass equivalent to 120% {+-} 10% of the solid angle subtended by the shield. The attached presentation has more information on the results of the aluminum blast shield analysis. In addition to the information given in the presentation, the surfaces of the shields have been chemically leached and submitted for mass spectrometric analysis. The results from that analysis are expected to arrive after the due date of this report and will be written up at a later time. Based on the results of the aluminum blast shield analysis, it was determined that additional materials needed to be tested as potential collectors in the NIF chamber. 1-2 mm thick pieces of tantalum, niobium, vanadium, silver, titanium, molybdenum, and graphite foil were fielded in the Wedge Range Filter (WRF) mount at a distance of 50 cm from target chamber center during the shock timing campaign. The pieces were subsequently removed and analyzed in a similar fashion to the aluminum shields. As of this writing, the pieces are still under analysis, but initial results indicate that gold debris was collected on the various materials. Currently, the pieces are being cross-sectioned so that the melt depths of each material can be compared. In addition, NAA and/or mass spectrometry will be performed in order to determine the total gold mass that was collected on each surface.« less

Synthesis and characterization of nanostructured titanium carbide for fuel cell applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Singh, Paviter; Singh, Harwinder; Singh, Bikramjeet

2016-04-13

Titanium carbide (TiC) nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized by carbo-thermic reaction of titanium and acetone at 800 °C. This method is relatively low temperature synthesis route. It can be used for large scale production of TiC. The synthesized nanoparticles have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential thermal analyzer (DTA) techniques. XRD analysis confirmed the formation of single phase TiC. XRD analysis confirmed that the particles are spherical in shape with an average particle size of 13 nm. DTA analysis shows that the phase is stable upto 900 °C and the material can be used formore » high temperature applications.« less

Reduced NAA in motor and non-motor brain regions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study.

PubMed

Rule, R R; Suhy, J; Schuff, N; Gelinas, D F; Miller, R G; Weiner, M W

2004-09-01

After replication of previous findings we aimed to: 1) determine if previously reported (1)H MRSI differences between ALS patients and control subjects are limited to the motor cortex; and 2) determine the longitudinal metabolic changes corresponding to varying levels of diagnostic certainty. Twenty-one patients with possible/suspected ALS, 24 patients with probable/definite ALS and 17 control subjects underwent multislice (1)H MRSI co-registered with tissue-segmented MRI to obtain concentrations of the brain metabolites N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine, and choline in the left and right motor cortex and in gray matter and white matter of non-motor regions in the brain. In the more affected hemisphere, reductions in the ratios, NAA/Cho and NAA/Cre+Cho were observed both within (12.6% and 9.5% respectively) and outside (9.2% and 7.3% respectively) the motor cortex in probable/definite ALS. However, these reductions were significantly greater within the motor cortex (P<0.05 for NAA/Cho and P<0.005 for NAA/Cre+Cho). Longitudinal changes in NAA were observed at three months within the motor cortex of both possible/suspected ALS patients (P<0.005) and at nine months outside the motor cortex of probable/definite patients (P<0.005). However, there was no clear pattern of progressive change over time. NAA ratios are reduced in the motor cortex and outside the motor cortex in ALS, suggesting widespread neuronal injury. Longitudinal changes of NAA are not reliable, suggesting that NAA may not be a useful surrogate marker for treatment trials.

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) promote growth and inhibit differentiation of glioma stem-like cells.

PubMed

Long, Patrick M; Moffett, John R; Namboodiri, Aryan M A; Viapiano, Mariano S; Lawler, Sean E; Jaworski, Diane M

2013-09-06

Metabolic reprogramming is a pathological feature of cancer and a driver of tumor cell transformation. N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) is one of the most abundant amino acid derivatives in the brain and serves as a source of metabolic acetate for oligodendrocyte myelination and protein/histone acetylation or a precursor for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG). NAA and NAAG as well as aspartoacylase (ASPA), the enzyme responsible for NAA degradation, are significantly reduced in glioma tumors, suggesting a possible role for decreased acetate metabolism in tumorigenesis. This study sought to examine the effects of NAA and NAAG on primary tumor-derived glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) from oligodendroglioma as well as proneural and mesenchymal glioblastoma, relative to oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (Oli-Neu). Although the NAA dicarboxylate transporter NaDC3 is primarily thought to be expressed by astrocytes, all cell lines expressed NaDC3 and, thus, are capable of NAA up-take. Treatment with NAA or NAAG significantly increased GSC growth and suppressed differentiation of Oli-Neu cells and proneural GSCs. Interestingly, ASPA was expressed in both the cytosol and nuclei of GSCs and exhibited greatest nuclear immunoreactivity in differentiation-resistant GSCs. Both NAA and NAAG elicited the expression of a novel immunoreactive ASPA species in select GSC nuclei, suggesting differential ASPA regulation in response to these metabolites. Therefore, this study highlights a potential role for nuclear ASPA expression in GSC malignancy and suggests that the use of NAA or NAAG is not an appropriate therapeutic approach to increase acetate bioavailability in glioma. Thus, an alternative acetate source is required.

N-Acetylaspartate reductions in brain injury: impact on post-injury neuroenergetics, lipid synthesis, and protein acetylation

PubMed Central

Moffett, John R.; Arun, Peethambaran; Ariyannur, Prasanth S.; Namboodiri, Aryan M. A.

2013-01-01

N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) is employed as a non-invasive marker for neuronal health using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). This utility is afforded by the fact that NAA is one of the most concentrated brain metabolites and that it produces the largest peak in MRS scans of the healthy human brain. NAA levels in the brain are reduced proportionately to the degree of tissue damage after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the reductions parallel the reductions in ATP levels. Because NAA is the most concentrated acetylated metabolite in the brain, we have hypothesized that NAA acts in part as an extensive reservoir of acetate for acetyl coenzyme A synthesis. Therefore, the loss of NAA after TBI impairs acetyl coenzyme A dependent functions including energy derivation, lipid synthesis, and protein acetylation reactions in distinct ways in different cell populations. The enzymes involved in synthesizing and metabolizing NAA are predominantly expressed in neurons and oligodendrocytes, respectively, and therefore some proportion of NAA must be transferred between cell types before the acetate can be liberated, converted to acetyl coenzyme A and utilized. Studies have indicated that glucose metabolism in neurons is reduced, but that acetate metabolism in astrocytes is increased following TBI, possibly reflecting an increased role for non-glucose energy sources in response to injury. NAA can provide additional acetate for intercellular metabolite trafficking to maintain acetyl CoA levels after injury. Here we explore changes in NAA, acetate, and acetyl coenzyme A metabolism in response to brain injury. PMID:24421768

Reduced N-acetylaspartate levels in the frontal cortex of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstasy) users: preliminary results.

PubMed

Reneman, Liesbeth; Majoie, Charles B L M; Flick, Herman; den Heeten, Gerard J

2002-02-01

The perceived safety of the recreational drug methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), or Ecstasy, conflicts with animal evidence indicating that MDMA damages cortical serotonin (5-HT) neurons at doses similar to those used by humans. Few data are available about the effects of MDMA on the human brain. This study was designed to evaluate MDMA-related alterations in metabolite ratios with single-voxel proton ((1)H) MR spectroscopy. Fifteen male MDMA users (mean lifetime exposure, 723 tablets; mean time since last tablet, 12.0 weeks) and 12 age-matched control subjects underwent single-voxel (1)H MR spectroscopy. N-Acetylaspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr), NAA/Choline (Cho), and myoinositol (MI)/Cr ratios were measured in midfrontal gray matter, midoccipital gray matter, and right parietal white matter. Data were analyzed with linear model-based multivariate analysis of variance. NAA/Cr (P =.04) and NAA/Cho (P =.03) ratios, markers associated with neuronal loss or dysfunction, were reduced in the frontal cortex of MDMA users. Neither NAA/Cr (P =.72) nor NAA/Cho (P =.12) ratios were different between both groups in occipital gray matter and parietal white matter (P =.18). Extent of previous MDMA use and frontal cortical NAA/Cr (rho = -.50, P =.012) or NAA/Cho (rho = -.550, P <.01) ratios were significantly associated. Reduced NAA/Cr and NAA/Cho ratios at (1)H MR spectroscopy provide evidence for neuronal abnormality in the frontal cortex of MDMA users; these are correlated with the degree of MDMA exposure. These data suggest that MDMA may be a neurotoxin in humans, as it is in animals.

Synthesis and Raman scattering of GaN nanorings, nanoribbons and nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Z. J.; Chen, X. L.; Li, H. J.; Tu, Q. Y.; Yang, Z.; Xu, Y. P.; Hu, B. Q.

Low-dimensional GaN materials, including nanorings, nanoribbons and smooth nanowires have been synthesized by reacting gallium and ammonia using Ag particles as a catalyst on the substrate of MgO single crystals. They were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). EDX, XRD indicated that the low-dimensional nanomaterials were wurtzite GaN. New features are found in Raman scatterings for these low-dimensional GaN materials, which are different from the previous observations of GaN materials.

Methamphetamine-induced neuronal protein NAT8L is the NAA biosynthetic enzyme: implications for specialized acetyl coenzyme A metabolism in the CNS.

PubMed

Ariyannur, Prasanth S; Moffett, John R; Manickam, Pachiappan; Pattabiraman, Nagarajan; Arun, Peethambaran; Nitta, Atsumi; Nabeshima, Toshitaka; Madhavarao, Chikkathur N; Namboodiri, Aryan M A

2010-06-04

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is a concentrated, neuron-specific brain metabolite routinely used as a magnetic resonance spectroscopy marker for brain injury and disease. Despite decades of research, the functional roles of NAA remain unclear. Biochemical investigations over several decades have associated NAA with myelin lipid synthesis and energy metabolism. However, studies have been hampered by an inability to identify the gene for the NAA biosynthetic enzyme aspartate N-acetyltransferase (Asp-NAT). A very recent report has identified Nat8l as the gene encoding Asp-NAT and confirmed that the only child diagnosed with a lack of NAA on brain magnetic resonance spectrograms has a 19-bp deletion in this gene. Based on in vitro Nat8l expression studies the researchers concluded that many previous biochemical investigations have been technically flawed and that NAA may not be associated with brain energy or lipid metabolism. In studies done concurrently in our laboratory we have demonstrated via cloning, expression, specificity for acetylation of aspartate, responsiveness to methamphetamine treatment, molecular modeling and comparative immunolocalization that NAT8L is the NAA biosynthetic enzyme Asp-NAT. We conclude that NAA is a major storage and transport form of acetyl coenzyme A specific to the nervous system, thus linking it to both lipid synthesis and energy metabolism. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Hippocampal metabolic dysfunction in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: 3D multivoxel spectroscopy study.

PubMed

Ristić, Aleksandar J; Ostojić, Jelena; Kozić, Duško; Vojvodić, Nikola M; Popović, Ljubica M; Janković, Slavko; Baščarević, Vladimir; Sokić, Dragoslav V

2011-06-15

To investigate the metabolic differences in hippocampi of patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) and healthy controls using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). A 3D multivoxel SE 135 MRS study on 1.5 T scanner of both hippocampi was performed in 17 patients with JME and normal brain MRI and in 19 age and sex matched controls. Three dominant signals were measured: Choline (Cho), Creatine (tCr) and N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) and expressed as ratios of Cho:tCr, NAA:tCr, NAA:Cho and NAA:(Cho+tCr). Metabolite ratios in head, body and tail of each hippocampus in the JME group of patients were compared with ratios from corresponding structures in the control group. We found a significant difference in metabolite ratios of both hippocampi between the JME and the control groups. We detected significant differences of Cho:tCr in the head, NAA:tCr in the head, body and tail, NAA:Cho and NAA:(Cho+tCr) in the body and tail of the left hippocampus, and NAA:Cho and NAA:(Cho+tCr) in the body and tail of the right hippocampus. Although not previously recognized as a part of the epileptogenic network, our results suggest that the hippocampus, well recognized as a key player in focal epilepsies, may have a certain role in the pathogenesis of JME. Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Structure and function of human Naa60 (NatF), a Golgi-localized bi-functional acetyltransferase

DOE PAGES

Chen, Ji-Yun; Liu, Liang; Cao, Chun-Ling; ...

2016-08-23

N-terminal acetylation (Nt-acetylation), carried out by N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs), is a conserved and primary modification of nascent peptide chains. Naa60 (also named NatF) is a recently identified NAT found only in multicellular eukaryotes. This protein was shown to locate on the Golgi apparatus and mainly catalyze the Nt-acetylation of transmembrane proteins, and it also harbors lysine Nε -acetyltransferase (KAT) activity to catalyze the acetylation of lysine ε-amine. Here, we report the crystal structures of human Naa60 (hNaa60) in complex with Acetyl-Coenzyme A (Ac-CoA) or Coenzyme A (CoA). The hNaa60 protein contains an amphipathic helix following its GNAT domain that maymore » contribute to Golgi localization of hNaa60, and the β7-β8 hairpin adopted different conformations in the hNaa60(1-242) and hNaa60(1-199) crystal structures. Remarkably, we found that the side-chain of Phe 34 can influence the position of the coenzyme, indicating a new regulatory mechanism involving enzyme, co-factor and substrates interactions. Moreover, structural comparison and biochemical studies indicated that Tyr 97 and His 138 are key residues for catalytic reaction and that a non-conserved β3-β4 long loop participates in the regulation of hNaa60 activity.« less

Effects of IBA and NAA treatments on rooting Douglas-fir stem cuttings.

Treesearch

D.L. Copes

2000-01-01

The effectiveness of six IBA and four NAA concentrations, four combinations of IBA and NAA concentrations, and control were tested for their ability to enhance rooting frequency (%) of Douglas-fir cuttings. Two IBA and one NAA treatments were also compared to the control for quality of root system. Between 1984 and 1998, six independent studies were conducted in mist...

The Proceedings, Directory and Handbook of the National Association of Academies of Science 1983-84.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Majumdar, Shyamal K., Ed.

Provided in this document are the proceedings of the 1983 annual meeting of the National Association of Academies of Sciences (NAAS), the NAAS handbook, and the NAAS directory. The proceedings also include papers presented at a symposium on the crisis in science and mathematics education, various NAAS reports, and abstracts of American Junior…

Au5+ ion implantation induced structural phase transitions probed through structural, microstructural and phonon properties in BiFeO3 ceramics, using synergistic ion beam energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dey, Ranajit; Bajpai, P. K.

2018-04-01

Implanted Au5+-ion-induced modification in structural and phonon properties of phase pure BiFeO3 (BFO) ceramics prepared by sol-gel method was investigated. These BFO samples were implanted by 15.8 MeV ions of Au5+ at various ion fluence ranging from 1 × 1014 to 5 × 1015 ions/cm2. Effect of Au5+ ions' implantation is explained in terms of structural phase transition coupled with amorphization/recrystallization due to ion implantation probed through XRD, SEM, EDX and Raman spectroscopy. XRD patterns show broad diffuse contributions due to amorphization in implanted samples. SEM images show grains collapsing and mounds' formation over the surface due to mass transport. The peaks of the Raman spectra were broadened and also the peak intensities were decreased for the samples irradiated with 15.8 MeV Au5+ ions at a fluence of 5 × 1015 ion/cm2. The percentage increase/decrease in amorphization and recrystallization has been estimated from Raman and XRD data, which support the synergistic effects being operative due to comparable nuclear and electronic energy losses at 15.8 MeV Au5+ ion implantation. Effect of thermal treatment on implanted samples is also probed and discussed.

Structural, magnetic and dielectric properties of polyaniline/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chitra, Palanisamy; Muthusamy, Athianna; Jayaprakash, Rajan

2015-12-01

Ferromagnetic PANI containing MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites were synthesized by in-situ chemical polymerization of aniline incorporated MnCoFe2O4 nanoparticles (20%, 10% w/w of fine powders) with and without ultrasonic treatment. The MnCoFe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized by auto combustion method. The PANI/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites were characterized with Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The average particle size of the resulting PANI/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites was confirmed from the TEM and XRD analysis. The structure and morphology of the composites were confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy, XRD and SEM. In addition, the electrical and magnetic properties of the nanocomposites were investigated. The PANI/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites under applied magnetic field exhibited the hysteresis loops of ferromagnetic nature at room temperature. The variation of Dielectric constant, Dielectric loss, and AC conductivity of PANI/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites at room temperature as a function of frequency in the range 50 Hz-5 MHz has been studied. Effect of ultrasonication on the PANI/MnCoFe2O4 nanocomposites was also investigated.

Synthesis of fluorapatite–hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and toxicity investigations

PubMed Central

Montazeri, N; Jahandideh, R; Biazar, Esmaeil

2011-01-01

In this study, calcium phosphate nanoparticles with two phases, fluorapatite (FA; Ca10(PO4)6F2) and hydroxyapatite (HA; Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2), were prepared using the solgel method. Ethyl phosphate, hydrated calcium nitrate, and ammonium fluoride were used, respectively, as P, Ca, and F precursors with a Ca:P ratio of 1:72. Powders obtained from the sol-gel process were studied after they were dried at 80°C and heat treated at 550°C. The degree of crystallinity, particle and crystallite size, powder morphology, chemical structure, and phase analysis were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Zetasizer experiments. The results of XRD analysis and FTIR showed the presence of hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite phases. The sizes of the crystallites estimated from XRD patterns using the Scherrer equation and the crystallinity of the hydroxyapatite phase were about 20 nm and 70%, respectively. Transmission electron microscope and SEM images and Zetasizer experiments showed an average size of 100 nm. The in vitro behavior of powder was investigated with mouse fibroblast cells. The results of these experiments indicated that the powders were biocompatibile and would not cause toxic reactions. These compounds could be applied for hard-tissue engineering. PMID:21499417

Preparation and study of (1 - x)CuFe2O4-xBaTiO3 (x = 0, 0.1 and 1) composite multiferroics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murtaza, Tahir; Ali, Javid; Khan, M. S.

2018-07-01

The parent and mixed spinel-perovskite composite of (1 - x)CuFe2O4-xBaTiO3 (x = 0, 0.1 and 1) has been prepared by solid-state reaction method and studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy, magnetometry and P-E lope tracer. The XRD results showed the formation of single phase tetragonal spinel CuFe2O4 and tetragonal perovskite BaTiO3 at room temperature, further XRD of composite 0.1CuFe2O4-0.9BaTiO3 reflects the two crystallographic phases with 1:9 ratio. The SEM micrographs show the homogeneous and uniform formation of the samples. Through EDAX analysis, the chemical composition of the sample is found to be same as the nominal composition. The high field Mossbauer data of CuFe2O4 sample shows the ferrimagnetic ordering in the sample. The observed M-H and P-E loops of the composite 0.1CuFe2O4-0.9BaTiO3 sample show the presence of spontaneous magnetization and spontaneous electric polarization indicating the multiferroic nature of the sample.

In search of the elusive IrB{sub 2}: Can mechanochemistry help?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xie, Zhilin; Blair, Richard G.; Department of Physics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816

The previously unknown hexagonal ReB{sub 2}-type IrB{sub 2} diboride and orthorhombic IrB monoboride phases were produced by mechanochemical syntheses. High energy ball milling of elemental Ir and B powder for 30 h, followed by annealing of the powder at 1050 °C for 48 h, resulted in the formation of the desired phases. Both traditional laboratory and high resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were used for phase identification of the synthesized powder. In addition to XRD, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were employed to further characterize the microstructure of the phases produced. - Graphical abstract: ReB{sub 2}-type IrB{submore » 2} and a new IrB have been successfully synthesized for the first time using mechanochemical method. Crystal structures of IrB{sub 2} and IrB were studied by synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Microstructures of the new phases were characterized by SEM and TEM. - Highlights: • ReB{sub 2}-type IrB{sub 2} and a new IrB have been synthesized by mechanochemical method. • Crystal structures of IrB{sub 2} and IrB were studied by synchrotron XRD. • Microstructures of the new phases were characterized by SEM and TEM.« less

A Clean, Mild, and Efficient Preparation of Aryl 14H-benzo[a,j]xanthene leuco-dye Derivatives Via Nanocatalytic MCM-41-SO3H Under Ultrasonic Irradiation in Aqueous Media.

PubMed

Fathollahi, Mostafa; Rostamizadeh, Shahnaz; Amani, Ali M

2018-01-01

The present study has developed an efficient and eco-friendly protocol for the synthesis of aryl-14-H-dibenzo[a,j] xanthenes through a one-pot condensation reaction of 2-naphthol and arylaldehydes in aqueous media using the nanocatalytic MCM-41-SO3H under ultrasonic illumination. Using SEM and XRD analyses, MCM-41-SO3H nanoparticles were characterized. Therefore, for high magnification, taking the SEM image, the mesoporous surface of MCM-41-SO3H nanoparticles coated with gold for 2 minutes was characterized. Moreover, at a scan rate of 0.02° (2θ)/sec, XRD analysis from 1.5° (2θ) to 10.0° (2θ) was performed. For our considered sample, some well-ordered XRD patterns with one main peak as well as three minor peaks equal to those of MCM-41 materials were observed. The suggested route demonstrates very promising properties like higher yields, decrease in the time of reaction (5-10 min), mild and straightforward conditions, low level of toxicity, and inclusion of a cost-efficient and ecofriendly catalyst having considerable reusability. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Phosphate Remediation and Recovery using Iron Oxide-based Adsorbents

EPA Science Inventory

E33-modified sorbents for the removal of phosphate from lake water was investigated in this study. E33-modified sorbents were synthesized by coating with manganese and nanoparticles. Characterization was done by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-...

NON-UNIFORM COPPER CORROSION: RESEARCH UPDATE

EPA Science Inventory

Pinhole leaks due to copper pitting corrosion are a major cause of home plumbing failure. This study documents cases of copper pitting corrosion found in homes supplied by Butler County Environmental Services in Ohio. SEM. XRD, and optical microscopy were used to document pit s...

A multi-matrix HILIC-MS/MS method for the quantitation of endogenous small molecule neurological biomarker N-acetyl aspartic acid (NAA).

PubMed

Sangaraju, Dewakar; Shahidi-Latham, Sheerin K; Burgess, Braydon L; Dean, Brian; Ding, Xiao

2017-06-05

A multi-matrix hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometric method (HILIC-MS/MS) was developed for the quantitation of N-Acetyl Aspartic acid (NAA) using stable isotope labeled internal standard, D3-NAA in various biological matrices such as human plasma, human CSF, mouse plasma, brain and spinal cord. A high throughput 96-well plate format supported liquid extraction (SLE) procedure was developed and used for sample preparation. Mass spectrometric analysis of NAA was performed using selected reaction monitoring transitions in positive electrospray ionization mode. As NAA is endogenously present, a surrogate matrix approach was used for quantitation of NAA and the method was qualified over linear calibration curve range of 0.01-10μg/mL. Intra and inter assay precision indicated by percent relative standard deviation (%RSD) was less than 7.1% for low, medium, medium high and high QCs. The accuracy of the method ranged from 92.6-107.0% of nominal concentration for within-run and between-run for the same QCs. Extraction recovery of NAA and D3-NAA was greater than 76%. Stability of NAA was established in the above biological matrices under bench top (RT, 5h), freeze thaw (-20±10°C, 3 cycles) and moues/human plasma sample collection (Wet ice, RT) conditions. HILIC-MS/MS method was then used to quantify and compare the NAA levels in human plasma and CSF of ALS patients versus control human subjects. NAA CSF levels in control human subjects (73.3±31.0ng/mL,N=10) were found to be slightly higher than ALS patients (46.1±22.6ng/mL, N=10) (P=0.04). No differences were observed in NAA plasma levels in human control subjects (49.7±13.8ng/mL,N=9) as compared to ALS patients (49.6±8.1ng/mL, N=10) (P=0.983). NAA endogenous concentrations in mouse plasma, brain and spinal cord were found to be 243.8±56.8ng/mL (N=6), 1029.8±115.2μg/g tissue weight (N=5) and 487.6±178.4μg/g tissue weight (N=5) respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Novel synthesis and structural analysis of zinc oxide nanoparticles for the non enzymatic glucose biosensor.

PubMed

Dayakar, T; Venkateswara Rao, K; Bikshalu, K; Rajendar, V; Park, Si-Hyun

2017-06-01

A non-enzymatic glucose biosensor was developed by utilizing the zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized by a novel green method using the leaf extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum. The structural, optical and morphological properties of ZnO NPs characterized by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD analysis revealed that the ZnO NPs were crystalline and had a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The crystallite size measured by XRD was the same as that measured using SEM and TEM. The UV-vis absorption spectrum estimates the band gap of ZnO NPs present in the range of 2.82 to 3.45eV. The reduction and formation of ZnO NPs mainly due to the involvement of leaf extract bio-molecular compounds analyzed from the FTIR spectra. The SEM result confirms the morphology of the NPs responsible from the various concentration of leaf extract in the synthesis process. HRTEM analysis depicts the spherical structure of ZnO NPs. The synthesized NPs have the average size ranges from 10 to 20nm. The fabricated GCE/ZnO glucose sensor represents superior electro catalytic activity that has been observed for ZnO NPs with a reproducible sensitivity of 631.30μAmM -1 cm -2 , correlation coefficient of R=0.998, linear dynamic range from 1-8.6mM, low detection limit of 0.043μM (S/N=3) and response time<4s. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Conservation of Moroccan manuscript papers aged 150, 200 and 800 years. Analysis by infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS).

PubMed

Hajji, Latifa; Boukir, Abdellatif; Assouik, Jamal; Lakhiari, Hamid; Kerbal, Abdelali; Doumenq, Pierre; Mille, Gilbert; De Carvalho, Maria Luisa

2015-02-05

The preservation of manuscripts and archive materials is a serious problem for librarians and restorers. Paper manuscript is subjected to numerous degradation factors affecting their conservation state. This research represents an attempt to evaluate the conservation restoration process applied in Moroccan libraries, especially the alkaline treatment for strengthening weakened paper. In this study, we focused on six samples of degraded and restored paper taken from three different Moroccan manuscripts aged 150, 200 and 800 years. In addition, the Japanese paper used in restoration has been characterized. A modern paper was also analyzed as reference. A three-step analytical methodology based on infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy coupled to energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS) analysis was developed before and after restoration in order to determine the effect of the consolidation treatment on the paper structure. The results obtained by XRD and ATR-FTIR disclosed the presence of barium sulfate (BaSO4) in all restored paper manuscripts. The presence of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in all considered samples was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The application of de-acidification treatment causes significant changes connected with the increase of intensity mostly in the region 1426 cm(-1), assigned to the asymmetric and symmetric CO stretching mode of calcite, indicating the effectiveness of de-acidification procedure proved by the rise of the alkaline reserve content allowing the long term preservation of paper. Observations performed by SEM magnify the typical paper morphology and the structure of fibbers, highlighting the effect of the restoration process, manifested by the reduction of impurities. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Facile green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using seed aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica and its antibacterial activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadeghi, Babak; Rostami, Amir; Momeni, S. S.

2015-01-01

In the present work, we describe the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using seed aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica (PA) and its antibacterial activity. UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray energy dispersive spectrophotometer (EDAX) were performed to ascertain the formation of Ag-NPs. It was observed that the growths of Ag-NPs are stopped within 35 min of reaction time. The synthesized Ag-NPs were characterized by a peak at 446 nm in the UV-visible spectrum. XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles of 27 nm size. The XRD peaks at 38°, 44°, 64° and 77° can be indexed to the (1 1 1), (2 0 0), (2 2 0) and (3 1 1) Bragg's reflections of cubic structure of metallic silver, respectively. The FTIR result clearly showed that the extracts containing OH as a functional group act in capping the nanoparticles synthesis. Antibacterial activities of Ag-NPs were tested against the growth of Gram-positive (S. aureus) using SEM. The inhibition was observed in the Ag-NPs against S. aureus. The results suggest that the synthesized Ag-NPs act as an effective antibacterial agent. It is confirmed that Ag-NPs are capable of rendering high antibacterial efficacy and hence has a great potential in the preparation of used drugs against bacterial diseases. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicated that, the most strains of S. aureus was damaged and extensively disappeared by addition of Ag-NPs. The results confirmed that the (PA) is a very good eco friendly and nontoxic source for the synthesis of Ag-NPs as compared to the conventional chemical/physical methods.

Facile green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using seed aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica and its antibacterial activity.

PubMed

Sadeghi, Babak; Rostami, Amir; Momeni, S S

2015-01-05

In the present work, we describe the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using seed aqueous extract of Pistacia atlantica (PA) and its antibacterial activity. UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray energy dispersive spectrophotometer (EDAX) were performed to ascertain the formation of Ag-NPs. It was observed that the growths of Ag-NPs are stopped within 35 min of reaction time. The synthesized Ag-NPs were characterized by a peak at 446 nm in the UV-visible spectrum. XRD confirmed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles of 27 nm size. The XRD peaks at 38°, 44°, 64° and 77° can be indexed to the (111), (200), (220) and (311) Bragg's reflections of cubic structure of metallic silver, respectively. The FTIR result clearly showed that the extracts containing OH as a functional group act in capping the nanoparticles synthesis. Antibacterial activities of Ag-NPs were tested against the growth of Gram-positive (S. aureus) using SEM. The inhibition was observed in the Ag-NPs against S. aureus. The results suggest that the synthesized Ag-NPs act as an effective antibacterial agent. It is confirmed that Ag-NPs are capable of rendering high antibacterial efficacy and hence has a great potential in the preparation of used drugs against bacterial diseases. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicated that, the most strains of S. aureus was damaged and extensively disappeared by addition of Ag-NPs. The results confirmed that the (PA) is a very good eco friendly and nontoxic source for the synthesis of Ag-NPs as compared to the conventional chemical/physical methods. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The neuronal metabolite NAA regulates histone H3 methylation in oligodendrocytes and myelin lipid composition

PubMed Central

Singhal, N. K.; Huang, H.; Li, S.; Clements, R.; Gadd, J.; Daniels, A.; Kooijman, E. E.; Bannerman, P.; Burns, T.; Guo, F.; Pleasure, D.; Freeman, E.; Shriver, L.

2017-01-01

The neuronal mitochondrial metabolite N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is decreased in the multiple sclerosis (MS) brain. NAA is synthesized in neurons by the enzyme N-acetyltransferase-8-like (NAT8L) and broken down in oligodendrocytes by aspartoacylase (ASPA) into acetate and aspartate. We have hypothesized that NAA links the metabolism of axons with oligodendrocytes to support myelination. To test this hypothesis, we performed lipidomic analyses using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) to identify changes in myelin lipid composition in postmortem MS brains and in NAT8L knockout (NAT8L−/−) mice which do not synthesize NAA. We found reduced levels of sphingomyelin in MS normal appearing white matter that mirrored decreased levels of NAA. We also discovered decreases in the amounts of sphingomyelin and sulfatide lipids in the brains of NAT8L−/− mice compared to controls. Metabolomic analysis of primary cultures of oligodendrocytes treated with NAA revealed increased levels of α-ketoglutarate, which has been reported to regulate histone demethylase activity. Consistent with this, NAA treatment resulted in alterations in the levels of histone H3 methylation, including H3K4me3, H3K9me2, and H3K9me3. The H3K4me3 histone mark regulates cellular energetics, metabolism, and growth, while H3K9me3 has been linked to alterations in transcriptional repression in developing oligodendrocytes. We also noted the NAA treatment was associated with increases in the expression of genes involved in sulfatide and sphingomyelin synthesis in cultured oligodendrocytes. This is the first report demonstrating that neuronal-derived NAA can signal to the oligodendrocyte nucleus. These data suggest that neuronal-derived NAA signals through epigenetic mechanisms in oligodendrocytes to support or maintain myelination. PMID:27709268

The neuronal metabolite NAA regulates histone H3 methylation in oligodendrocytes and myelin lipid composition.

PubMed

Singhal, N K; Huang, H; Li, S; Clements, R; Gadd, J; Daniels, A; Kooijman, E E; Bannerman, P; Burns, T; Guo, F; Pleasure, D; Freeman, E; Shriver, L; McDonough, J

2017-01-01

The neuronal mitochondrial metabolite N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is decreased in the multiple sclerosis (MS) brain. NAA is synthesized in neurons by the enzyme N-acetyltransferase-8-like (NAT8L) and broken down in oligodendrocytes by aspartoacylase (ASPA) into acetate and aspartate. We have hypothesized that NAA links the metabolism of axons with oligodendrocytes to support myelination. To test this hypothesis, we performed lipidomic analyses using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) to identify changes in myelin lipid composition in postmortem MS brains and in NAT8L knockout (NAT8L -/- ) mice which do not synthesize NAA. We found reduced levels of sphingomyelin in MS normal appearing white matter that mirrored decreased levels of NAA. We also discovered decreases in the amounts of sphingomyelin and sulfatide lipids in the brains of NAT8L -/- mice compared to controls. Metabolomic analysis of primary cultures of oligodendrocytes treated with NAA revealed increased levels of α-ketoglutarate, which has been reported to regulate histone demethylase activity. Consistent with this, NAA treatment resulted in alterations in the levels of histone H3 methylation, including H3K4me3, H3K9me2, and H3K9me3. The H3K4me3 histone mark regulates cellular energetics, metabolism, and growth, while H3K9me3 has been linked to alterations in transcriptional repression in developing oligodendrocytes. We also noted the NAA treatment was associated with increases in the expression of genes involved in sulfatide and sphingomyelin synthesis in cultured oligodendrocytes. This is the first report demonstrating that neuronal-derived NAA can signal to the oligodendrocyte nucleus. These data suggest that neuronal-derived NAA signals through epigenetic mechanisms in oligodendrocytes to support or maintain myelination.

N-Acetylaspartate in the CNS: From Neurodiagnostics to Neurobiology

PubMed Central

Moffett, John R.; Ross, Brian; Arun, Peethambaran; Madhavarao, Chikkathur N.; Namboodiri, M. A. A.

2007-01-01

The brain is unique among organs in many respects, including its mechanisms of lipid synthesis and energy production. The nervous system-specific metabolite N-acetylaspartate (NAA), which is synthesized from aspartate and acetyl-coenzyme A in neurons, appears to be a key link in these distinct biochemical features of CNS metabolism. During early postnatal CNS development, the expression of lipogenic enzymes in oligodendrocytes, including the NAA-degrading enzyme aspartoacylase (ASPA), is increased along with increased NAA production in neurons. NAA is transported from neurons to the cytoplasm of oligodendrocytes, where ASPA cleaves the acetate moiety for use in fatty acid and steroid synthesis. The fatty acids and steroids produced then go on to be used as building blocks for myelin lipid synthesis. Mutations in the gene for ASPA result in the fatal leukodystrophy Canavan disease, for which there is currently no effective treatment. Once postnatal myelination is completed, NAA may continue to be involved in myelin lipid turnover in adults, but it also appears to adopt other roles, including a bioenergetic role in neuronal mitochondria. NAA and ATP metabolism appear to be linked indirectly, whereby acetylation of aspartate may facilitate its removal from neuronal mitochondria, thus favoring conversion of glutamate to alpha ketoglutarate which can enter the tricarboxylic acid cycle for energy production. In its role as a mechanism for enhancing mitochondrial energy production from glutamate, NAA is in a key position to act as a magnetic resonance spectroscopy marker for neuronal health, viability and number. Evidence suggests that NAA is a direct precursor for the enzymatic synthesis of the neuron specific dipeptide N-acetylaspartylglutamate, the most concentrated neuropeptide in the human brain. Other proposed roles for NAA include neuronal osmoregulation and axon-glial signaling. We propose that NAA may also be involved in brain nitrogen balance. Further research will be required to more fully understand the biochemical functions served by NAA in CNS development and activity, and additional functions are likely to be discovered. PMID:17275978

N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) and N-Acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) Promote Growth and Inhibit Differentiation of Glioma Stem-like Cells*

PubMed Central

Long, Patrick M.; Moffett, John R.; Namboodiri, Aryan M. A.; Viapiano, Mariano S.; Lawler, Sean E.; Jaworski, Diane M.

2013-01-01

Metabolic reprogramming is a pathological feature of cancer and a driver of tumor cell transformation. N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) is one of the most abundant amino acid derivatives in the brain and serves as a source of metabolic acetate for oligodendrocyte myelination and protein/histone acetylation or a precursor for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG). NAA and NAAG as well as aspartoacylase (ASPA), the enzyme responsible for NAA degradation, are significantly reduced in glioma tumors, suggesting a possible role for decreased acetate metabolism in tumorigenesis. This study sought to examine the effects of NAA and NAAG on primary tumor-derived glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) from oligodendroglioma as well as proneural and mesenchymal glioblastoma, relative to oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (Oli-Neu). Although the NAA dicarboxylate transporter NaDC3 is primarily thought to be expressed by astrocytes, all cell lines expressed NaDC3 and, thus, are capable of NAA up-take. Treatment with NAA or NAAG significantly increased GSC growth and suppressed differentiation of Oli-Neu cells and proneural GSCs. Interestingly, ASPA was expressed in both the cytosol and nuclei of GSCs and exhibited greatest nuclear immunoreactivity in differentiation-resistant GSCs. Both NAA and NAAG elicited the expression of a novel immunoreactive ASPA species in select GSC nuclei, suggesting differential ASPA regulation in response to these metabolites. Therefore, this study highlights a potential role for nuclear ASPA expression in GSC malignancy and suggests that the use of NAA or NAAG is not an appropriate therapeutic approach to increase acetate bioavailability in glioma. Thus, an alternative acetate source is required. PMID:23884408

Age-modulated association between prefrontal NAA and the BDNF gene.

PubMed

Salehi, Basira; Preuss, Nora; van der Veen, Jan Willem; Shen, Jun; Neumeister, Alexander; Drevets, Wayne C; Hodgkinson, Colin; Goldman, David; Wendland, Jens R; Singleton, Andrew; Gibbs, Jesse R; Cookson, Mark R; Hasler, Gregor

2013-07-01

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of psychiatric and neurological disorders and in the mechanisms of antidepressant pharmacotherapy. Psychiatric and neurological conditions have also been associated with reduced brain levels of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), which has been used as a putative marker of neural integrity. However, few studies have explored the relationship between BDNF polymorphisms and NAA levels directly. Here, we present data from a single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy study of 64 individuals and explore the relationship between BDNF polymorphisms and prefrontal NAA level. Our results indicate an association between a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within BDNF, known as rs1519480, and reduced NAA level (p = 0.023). NAA levels were further predicted by age and Asian ancestry. There was a significant rs1519480 × age interaction on NAA level (p = 0.031). Specifically, the effect of rs1519480 on NAA level became significant at age ⩾34.17 yr. NAA level decreased with advancing age for genotype TT (p = 0.001) but not for genotype CT (p = 0.82) or CC (p = 0.34). Additional in silico analysis of 142 post-mortem brain samples revealed an association between the same SNP and reduced BDNF mRNA expression in the prefrontal cortex. The rs1519480 SNP influences BDNF mRNA expression and has an impact on prefrontal NAA level over time. This genetic mechanism may contribute to inter-individual variation in cognitive performance seen during normal ageing, as well as contributing to the risk for developing psychiatric and neurological conditions.

Molecular identification and functional characterization of the first Nα-acetyltransferase in plastids by global acetylome profiling.

PubMed

Dinh, Trinh V; Bienvenut, Willy V; Linster, Eric; Feldman-Salit, Anna; Jung, Vincent A; Meinnel, Thierry; Hell, Rüdiger; Giglione, Carmela; Wirtz, Markus

2015-07-01

Protein N(α) -terminal acetylation represents one of the most abundant protein modifications of higher eukaryotes. In humans, six N(α) -acetyltransferases (Nats) are responsible for the acetylation of approximately 80% of the cytosolic proteins. N-terminal protein acetylation has not been evidenced in organelles of metazoans, but in higher plants is a widespread modification not only in the cytosol but also in the chloroplast. In this study, we identify and characterize the first organellar-localized Nat in eukaryotes. A primary sequence-based search in Arabidopsis thaliana revealed seven putatively plastid-localized Nats of which AT2G39000 (AtNAA70) showed the highest conservation of the acetyl-CoA binding pocket. The chloroplastic localization of AtNAA70 was demonstrated by transient expression of AtNAA70:YFP in Arabidopsis mesophyll protoplasts. Homology modeling uncovered a significant conservation of tertiary structural elements between human HsNAA50 and AtNAA70. The in vivo acetylation activity of AtNAA70 was demonstrated on a number of distinct protein N(α) -termini with a newly established global acetylome profiling test after expression of AtNAA70 in E. coli. AtNAA70 predominately acetylated proteins starting with M, A, S and T, providing an explanation for most protein N-termini acetylation events found in chloroplasts. Like HsNAA50, AtNAA70 displays N(ε) -acetyltransferase activity on three internal lysine residues. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD001947 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD001947). © 2015 The Authors. PROTEOMICS Published by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

An Open-Label Exploratory Study with Memantine: Correlation between Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Cognition in Patients with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease

PubMed Central

Gordon, Marc L.; Kingsley, Peter B.; Goldberg, Terry E.; Koppel, Jeremy; Christen, Erica; Keehlisen, Lynda; Kohn, Nina; Davies, Peter

2012-01-01

Aim To characterize progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS). Methods Eleven subjects with mild to moderate AD underwent neurocognitive testing and single-voxel 1H MRS from the precuneus and posterior cingulate region at baseline, after 24 weeks of monotherapy with a cholinesterase inhibitor, and after another 24 weeks of combination therapy with open-label memantine and a cholinesterase inhibitor. Baseline metabolites [N-acetylaspartate (NAA), myo-inositol (mI), choline (Cho), and creatine (Cr)] and their ratios in AD subjects were compared with those of an age-matched control group of 28 cognitively normal subjects. Results AD subjects had significantly higher mI/Cr and lower NAA, NAA/Cr, NAA/Cho, and NAA/mI. Baseline Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study Activities of Daily Living (ADCS-ADL) scores significantly correlated with NAA/Cr, mI/Cr, and NAA/mI. There was an increase in mI and a decrease in NAA/mI, but no significant change in other metabolites or ratios, or neurocognitive measures, when memantine was added to a cholinesterase inhibitor. Conclusion Metabolite ratios significantly differed between AD and control subjects. Baseline metabolite ratios correlated with function (ADCS-ADL). There was an increase in mI and a decrease in NAA/mI, but no changes in other metabolites, ratios, or cognitive measures, when memantine was added to a cholinesterase inhibitor. PMID:22962555

Widespread extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) abnormalities in TLE with and without mesial temporal sclerosis.

PubMed

Mueller, Susanne G; Ebel, Andreas; Barakos, Jerome; Scanlon, Cathy; Cheong, Ian; Finlay, Daniel; Garcia, Paul; Weiner, Michael W; Laxer, Kenneth D

2011-04-01

MR spectroscopy has demonstrated extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions in medial temporal lobe epilepsy with (TLE-MTS) and without (TLE-no) mesial temporal sclerosis. Because of the limited brain coverage of those previous studies, it was, however, not possible to assess differences in the distribution and extent of these abnormalities between TLE-MTS and TLE-no. This study used a 3D whole brain echoplanar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) sequence to address the following questions: (1) Do TLE-MTS and TLE-no differ regarding severity and distribution of extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions? (2) Do extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions provide additional information for focus lateralization? Forty-three subjects (12 TLE-MTS, 13 TLE-no, 18 controls) were studied with 3D EPSI. Statistical parametric mapping (SPM2) was used to identify regions of significantly decreased NAA/(Cr+Cho) in TLE groups and in individual patients. TLE-MTS and TLE-no had widespread extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions. NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions had a bilateral fronto-temporal distribution in TLE-MTS and a more diffuse, less well defined distribution in TLE-no. Extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) decreases in the single subject analysis showed a large inter-individual variability and did not provide additional focus lateralizing information. Extrahippocampal NAA/(Cr+Cho) reductions in TLE-MTS and TLE-no are neither focal nor homogeneous. This reduces their value for focus lateralization and suggests a heterogeneous etiology of extrahippocampal spectroscopic metabolic abnormalities in TLE.

Depletion of histone N-terminal-acetyltransferase Naa40 induces p53-independent apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells via the mitochondrial pathway.

PubMed

Pavlou, Demetria; Kirmizis, Antonis

2016-03-01

Protein N-terminal acetylation is an abundant post-translational modification in eukaryotes implicated in various fundamental cellular and biochemical processes. This modification is catalysed by evolutionarily conserved N-terminal acetyltransferases (NATs) whose deregulation has been linked to cancer development and thus, are emerging as useful diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Naa40 is a highly selective NAT that acetylates the amino-termini of histones H4 and H2A and acts as a sensor of cell growth in yeast. In the present study, we examine the role of Naa40 in cancer cell survival. We demonstrate that depletion of Naa40 in HCT116 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells decreases cell survival by enhancing apoptosis, whereas Naa40 reduction in non-cancerous mouse embryonic fibroblasts has no effect on cell viability. Specifically, Naa40 knockdown in colon cancer cells activates the mitochondrial caspase-9-mediated apoptotic cascade. Consistent with this, we show that caspase-9 activation is required for the induced apoptosis because treatment of cells with an irreversible caspase-9 inhibitor impedes apoptosis when Naa40 is depleted. Furthermore, the effect of Naa40-depletion on cell-death is mediated through a p53-independent mechanism since p53-null HCT116 cells still undergo apoptosis upon reduction of the acetyltransferase. Altogether, these findings reveal an anti-apoptotic role for Naa40 and exhibit its potential as a therapeutic target in colorectal cancers.

Uptake, Distribution, and Metabolism of 1-Naphthaleneacetic Acid and Indole-3-Acetic Acid During Callus Initiation From Actinidia deliciosa Tissues.

PubMed

Centeno; Fernández; Feito; Rodríguez

1999-10-01

1-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 6-benzyladenine (BA) were required for in vitro callus formation at the basal edge of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa [A. Chev] Liang and Ferguson, cv. Hayward) petioles. The uptake, metabolism, and concentration of NAA and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) content were examined in the explants during the callus initiation period. After 1, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 96 h of culture in the presence of [H(3)]NAA, petioles were divided into apical, middle, and basal portions and analyzed. Except for a high IAA level measured at 12 h, IAA content decreased in tissues during a culture period of 96 h. NAA uptake was higher in petiolar edges than in the middle portion, and NAA was rapidly conjugated with sugars and aspartic acid inside the tissues. The amide conjugation was triggered in apical and basal portions from 12 h and in the middle part from 48 h, with alpha-naphthylacetylaspartic acid being the major metabolite. Free-NAA concentration in cultured petioles achieved an equilibrium with the exogenously applied NAA (0.27 µm) from 12 h, and it remained constant thereafter. The relationships between the role attributed to NAA and BA in the initiation and the maintenance of disorganized growth of callus in kiwifruit cultures are discussed.

Diffusion properties of NAA in human corpus callosum as studied with diffusion tensor spectroscopy.

PubMed

Upadhyay, Jaymin; Hallock, Kevin; Erb, Kelley; Kim, Dae-Shik; Ronen, Itamar

2007-11-01

In diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) the anisotropic movement of water is exploited to characterize microstructure. One confounding issue of DTI is the presence of intra- and extracellular components contributing to the measured diffusivity. This causes an ambiguity in determining the underlying cause of diffusion properties, particularly the fractional anisotropy (FA). In this study an intracellular constituent, N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), was used to probe intracellular diffusion, while water molecules were used to probe the combined intra- and extracellular diffusion. NAA and water diffusion measurements were made in anterior and medial corpus callosum (CC) regions, which are referred to as R1 and R2, respectively. FA(NAA) was found to be greater than FA(Water) in both CC regions, thus indicating a higher degree of anisotropy within the intracellular space in comparison to the combined intra- and extracellular spaces. A decreasing trend in the FA of NAA and water was observed between R1 and R2, while the radial diffusivity (RD) for both molecules increased. The increase in RD(NAA) is particularly significant, thus explaining the more significant decrease in FA(NAA) between the two regions. It is suggested that diffusion tensor spectroscopy of NAA can potentially be used to further characterize microscopic anatomic organization in white matter. Copyright 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The Molecular Mechanisms Affecting N-Acetylaspartate Homeostasis Following Experimental Graded Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Di Pietro, Valentina; Amorini, Angela Maria; Tavazzi, Barbara; Vagnozzi, Roberto; Logan, Ann; Lazzarino, Giacomo; Signoretti, Stefano; Lazzarino, Giuseppe; Belli, Antonio

2014-01-01

To characterize the molecular mechanisms of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) metabolism following traumatic brain injury (TBI), we measured the NAA, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine diphosphate (ADP) concentrations and calculated the ATP/ADP ratio at different times from impact, concomitantly evaluating the gene and protein expressions controlling NAA homeostasis (the NAA synthesizing and degrading enzymes N-acetyltransferase 8-like and aspartoacylase, respectively) in rats receiving either mild or severe TBI. The reversible changes in NAA induced by mild TBI were due to a combination of transient mitochondrial malfunctioning with energy crisis (decrease in ATP and in the ATP/ADP ratio) and modulation in the gene and protein levels of N-acetyltransferase 8-like and increase of aspartoacylase levels. The irreversible decrease in NAA following severe TBI, was instead characterized by profound mitochondrial malfunctioning (constant 65% decrease of the ATP/ADP indicating permanent impairment of the mitochondrial phosphorylating capacity), dramatic repression of the N-acetyltransferase 8-like gene and concomitant remarkable increase in the aspartoacylase gene and protein levels. The mechanisms underlying changes in NAA homeostasis following graded TBI might be of note for possible new therapeutic approaches and will help in understanding the effects of repeat concussions occurring during particular periods of the complex NAA recovery process, coincident with the so called window of brain vulnerability. PMID:24515258

Realisation and optical engineering of linear variable bandpass filters in nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals.

PubMed

Sukarno; Law, Cheryl Suwen; Santos, Abel

2017-06-08

We present the first realisation of linear variable bandpass filters in nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA-LVBPFs) photonic crystal structures. NAA gradient-index filters (NAA-GIFs) are produced by sinusoidal pulse anodisation and used as photonic crystal platforms to generate NAA-LVBPFs. The anodisation period of NAA-GIFs is modified from 650 to 850 s to systematically tune the characteristic photonic stopband of these photonic crystals across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. Then, the nanoporous structure of NAA-GIFs is gradually widened along the surface under controlled conditions by wet chemical etching using a dip coating approach aiming to create NAA-LVBPFs with finely engineered optical properties. We demonstrate that the characteristic photonic stopband and the iridescent interferometric colour displayed by these photonic crystals can be tuned with precision across the surface of NAA-LVBPFs by adjusting the fabrication and etching conditions. Here, we envisage for the first time the combination of the anodisation period and etching conditions as a cost-competitive, facile, and versatile nanofabrication approach that enables the generation of a broad range of unique LVBPFs covering the spectral regions. These photonic crystal structures open new opportunities for multiple applications, including adaptive optics, hyperspectral imaging, fluorescence diagnostics, spectroscopy, and sensing.

3D Nanostructured materials: TiO2 nanoparticles incorporated gellan gum scaffold for photocatalyst and biomedical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasmizam Razali, Mohd; Arifah Ismail, Nur; Zulkafli, Mohd Farhan Azly Mohd; Anuar Mat Amin, Khairul

2018-03-01

A unique three-dimensional (3D) nanostructured gellan gum (GG) is fabricated by incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles (GG + TiO2NPs) scaffold by freeze-drying. The fabricated GG + TiO2NPs were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to study their physiochemical properties. FTIR was used to investigate the intermolecular interactions in the scaffolds. The crystal structure was determined by bulk analysis using XRD and SEM for microstructure observation of scaffold surfaces. The performance of synthesized GG + TiO2NPs scaffold 3D nanostructured materials was evaluated as a photocatalyst for methyl orange (MO) degradation and for biomedical applications. The results showed that the scaffold possessed good photocatalytic activity for removal of methyl orange with 88.24% degradation after 3 h of UV irradiation. The scaffold also induces the cell growth, thus offering a good candidate for biomedical applications.

Synthesis and characterization of NiO nanopowder by sol-gel process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ningsih, Sherly Kasuma Warda

2015-09-30

Preparation of nickel oxide (NiO) nanopowder by sol-gel process has been studied. NiO nanopowders were obtained by sol-gel method by using nickel nitrate hexahydrate and sodium hydroxide and aquadest were used as precursor, agent precipitator and solvent, respectively. The powders were formed by drying at 110°C and followed by heating in the furnace at 400°C for 1.5 hours. The product was obtained black powder. The product was characterized by Energy Dispesive X-ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The ED-XRF pattern shows the composition of NiO produced was 97.1%. The XRD pattern showed NiO forms weremore » produced generally in monoclinic stucture. The crystalline size of NiO was obtained in the range 40-85 nm. SEM micrograph clearly showed that powder had a spherical with uniform distribution size is 0.1-1.0 µm approximately.« less

Hydrogen Gas Sensing Characteristics of Nanostructured NiO Thin Films Synthesized by SILAR Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karaduman, Irmak; Çorlu, Tugba; Yıldırım, M. Ali; Ateş, Aytunç; Acar, Selim

2017-07-01

Nanostructured NiO thin films have been synthesized by a facile, low-cost successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method, and the effects of the film thickness on their hydrogen gas sensing properties investigated. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis. The XRD results revealed that the crystallinity improved with increasing thickness, exhibiting polycrystalline structure. SEM studies showed that all the films covered the glass substrate well. According to optical absorption measurements, the optical bandgap decreased with increasing film thickness. The gas sensing properties of the nanostructured NiO thin films were studied as a function of operating temperature and gas concentration. The samples showed good sensing performance of H2 gas with high response. The maximum response was 75% at operating temperature of 200°C for hydrogen gas concentration of 40 ppm. These results demonstrate that nanostructured NiO thin films synthesized by the SILAR method have potential for application in hydrogen detection.

The effects of lithium hydroxide solution on alkali silica reaction gels created with opal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mitchell, Lyndon D.; Beaudoin, James J.; Grattan-Bellew, Patrick

The reaction of Nevada opal with calcium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide and lithium hydroxide solutions was investigated. In addition, opal was exposed to a combined solution of these three hydroxides. The progress of the three reactions was followed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), {sup 29}Si nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD results indicated the presence of a low-angle peak exclusive to the lithium-based reactions. The NMR results suggested a change in the silicate structure in the presence of lithium. These techniques indicated that the reaction of the alkali with the opal starting material is inhibited and perhapsmore » stopped in the presence of lithium hydroxide. SEM revealed that the morphology of the reaction products on the surface of the reacted opal grains is markedly different invariably. It was concluded that evidence to support the theory of a protective layer exists and that the nature of the layer varies with ion type.« less

Physicochemical properties and combustion behavior of duckweed during wet torrefaction.

PubMed

Zhang, Shuping; Chen, Tao; Li, Wan; Dong, Qing; Xiong, Yuanquan

2016-10-01

Wet torrefaction of duckweed was carried out in the temperature range of 130-250°C to evaluate the effects on physicochemical properties and combustion behavior. The physicochemical properties of duckweed samples were investigated by ultimate analysis, proximate analysis, FTIR, XRD and SEM techniques. It was found that wet torrefaction improved the fuel characteristics of duckweed samples resulting from the increase in fixed carbon content, HHVs and the decrease in nitrogen and sulfur content and atomic ratios of O/C and H/C. It can be seen from the results of FTIR, XRD and SEM analyses that the dehydration, decarboxylation, solid-solid conversion, and condensation polymerization reactions were underwent during wet torrefaction. In addition, the results of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in air indicated that wet torrefaction resulted in significant changes on combustion behavior and combustion kinetics parameters. Duckweed samples after wet torrefaction behaved more char-like and gave better combustion characteristics than raw sample. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Facile synthesis of one dimensional ZnO nanostructures for DSSC applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marimuthu, T.; Anandhan, N.

2016-05-01

Development of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructure based third generation dye sensitized solar cell is interesting compared to conventional silicon solar cells. ZnO nanostructured thin films were electrochemically deposited onto fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate. The effect of ethylene-diamine-tetra-acetic acid (EDTA) on structural, morphological and optical properties is investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) meter, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and micro Raman spectroscopy. XRD patterns reveal that the prepared nanostructures are hexagonal wutrzite structures with (101) plane orientation, the nanostructure prepared using EDTA exhibits better crystallinity. FE-SEM images illustrate that the morphological changes are observed from nanorod structure to cauliflower like structure as EDTA is added. Micro Raman spectra predict that cauliflower like structure possesses a higher crystalline nature with less atomic defects compared to nanorod structures. Dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) is constructed for the optimized cauliflower structure, and open circuit voltage, short circuit density, fill factor and efficiency are estimated from the J-V curve.

Structural and magnetic characterization of Ti doped cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, Jaswinder; Kumar, Sunil; Kaur, Randeep; Agrawal, P.; Singh, Mandeep; Singh, Anupinder

2018-05-01

Synthesis of Co1-xTixFe2O4 solid solutions for 0.1≤x≤0.4 using the solid-state-reaction rate has been done. The prepared samples were characterized by using XRD (X-ray diffraction) and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Magnetic studies have been done using Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). XRD confirmed that Cobalt Ferrite spinel cubic structure in all prepared samples. The lattice parameter `a' increases with increase in the concentration of Ti. SEM micrograph shows good grain growth in all samples. Magnetic Study reveals that the M-H curves of all the prepared samples taken at room temperature are very well saturated. The maximum value of remnant magnetization (Mr ˜13.9 emu/g) and saturation magnetization (Ms ˜74.4 emu/g) has been observed for x =0.2 sample. Coercivity does not show any regular variation with increase in the molar concentration of Ti in CoFe2O4 at A-site.

Sol-gel synthesis and characterizations of crystalline NaGd(WO4)2 powder for anisotropic transparent ceramic laser application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Durairajan, A.; Thangaraju, D.; Balaji, D.; Moorthy Babu, S.

2013-02-01

NaGd(WO4)2 powders were synthesized at different pH (3.5, 4.5, 5.5, 6.5 and 7.5) values by conventional Pechini method. Sodium and gadolinium nitrate salts and ammonium paratungstate are used as starting precursors. Metal cations were chelated by citric acid and individual citrates were bound together with ethylene glycol. Synthesized gel was analyzed using differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermo gravimetric (TG) and FT-IR spectroscopy to understand the degradation of gel and formation of metal citrates. Calcined powders (250, 600, 700 and 800 °C) were characterized by powder XRD, FT-IR, Raman and FE-SEM analysis. The temperature dependent phase formation was examined by powder XRD. The morphological changes at different pH derived powders were observed with FE-SEM micrographs. Stepwise organic liberation with respect to temperature and presence of carbon content in the pre-fired powder were analyzed using FT-IR analysis. Raman spectrum reveals disordered tungstate vibrations in the NGW matrix.

Hydrothermal synthesis of flower-like MoS2 nanospheres for electrochemical supercapacitors.

PubMed

Zhou, Xiaoping; Xu, Bin; Lin, Zhengfeng; Shu, Dong; Ma, Lin

2014-09-01

Flower-like MoS2 nanospheres were synthesized by a hydrothermal route. The structure and surface morphology of the as-prepared MoS2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The supercapacitive behavior of MoS2 in 1 M KCl electrolyte was studied by means of cyclic voltammetry (CV), constant current charge-discharge cycling (CD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The XRD results indicate that the as-prepared MoS2 has good crystallinity. SEM images show that the MoS2 nanospheres have uniform sizes with mean diameter about 300 nm. Many nanosheets growing on the surface make the MoS2 nanospheres to be a flower-like structure. The specific capacitance of MoS2 is 122 F x g(-1) at 1 A x g(-1) or 114 F x g(-1) at 2 mv s(-1). All the experimental results indicate that MoS2 is a promising electrode material for electrochemical supercapacitors.

Strontium hexaferrite (SrFe12O19) based composites for hyperthermia applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rashid, Amin Ur; Southern, Paul; Darr, Jawwad A.; Awan, Saifullah; Manzoor, Sadia

2013-10-01

Mixed phase composites of SrFe12O19/MgFe2O4/ZrO2 were prepared via the citrate gel technique as potential candidate materials for magnetic hyperthermia. Structural and magnetic properties of the samples were studied using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and a vibrating sample magnetometer. XRD and FE-SEM data confirm that magnesium ferrite and zirconium oxide phases increased with increasing Mg and Zr content in the precursors. Magnetization loops for the composites were measured at room temperature and showed significant variation of saturation magnetization, coercivity and remanence depending on the amount of the highly anisotropic Sr-hexaferrite phase. The sample with the highest Mg and Zr content had the lowest coercivity (80 Oe) and saturation magnetization (41 emu/g). The composite samples each were exposed to a 214 kHz alternating magnetic field of amplitude 22 Oe and a significant heating effect was observed in selected samples, which suggests potential for use in magnetic hyperthermia.

Surfactant-assisted growth and optical properties of ZnO hexagonal bilayer disk-like microstructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Q. P.; Shen, X. Y.; Wang, L. L.; Zhu, L. P.; Wang, L. J.; Liao, G. H.

2018-01-01

ZnO hexagonal bilayer disk-like microstructures are successfully fabricated using a simple solvothermal method assisted with surfactant. The structure and morphology were investigated by XRD, SEM, and EDS. XRD result indicated that the as-obtained samples were well-crystallized wurtzite hexagonal ZnO structure. SEM images showed that the ZnO hexagonal bilayer disk-like assembles consist of two uniform and smooth disks with an average edge length of 6 μm and thickness of ˜4 μm. UV-vis spectrum reveals that ZnO sampls show an appreciable red shift and the band gap energy of the obtained ZnO samples were about 3.15 eV. A very strong UV emission at the ultraviolet (UV) region was observed in the photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of the as-prepared ZnO samples tested at room-temperature. A possible growth process of the ZnO hexagonal bilayer disk-like microstructures was schematically illustrated.

The Microstructure Analysis of Barium M- Hexaferrite Particles Coated by Pani Conducting Material with In Situ Polymerization Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zainuri, M.; Amalia, L.

2017-05-01

Barium M-Hexaferrite (BaM) was synthesized by coprecipitation method and doped with Zn. Polyaniline (PANI) was synthesized by chemically and doped DBSA. The composite of PANI/BaM was synthesized by in situ polymerization method. The phase identification of the sample was performed by XRD, FTIR and SEM. Based on XRD data, the phase composition of BaM and hematite are 85.52 % and 14.48%. The characteristic peaks of PANI occur at 3435, 1637, 1473, 1298, 1127, 1009, and 799 cm-1. The characteristic metal oxide stretching peaks of BaM occurs at 575 and 437 cm-1. There is no phase changing in PANI/BaM composite. Based on SEM photography, the shape of BaM is hexagonal. The particle size of BaM powder ranges from 400-700 nm. The qualitative interfacial bonding between PANI and BaM particles are conducted very well and the both materials have good wettability.

Templated synthesis of nanoporous titania/nanocarbon composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mistry, Jayur

Hexagonally patterned (honeycomb structured) nano-porous titania finds distinct applications in the field of material science, electronics, and catalysis. The preparation of titania/nanocarbon composites was carried out using titanium iso-propoxide precursor and a viscous surfactant templated system arranged into nanoscopic channels of water and iso-octane. Nanocarbon was introduced into the titania pores, as it was dispersed into the water (used to increase the W0), while making templets. Prepared titania/nanocarbon composites were analyzed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) after a specific heat treatment. SEM and TEM allows us to see the morphology of the hexagonally patterned templates and XRD shows the change in the crystallinity of the titania after the heat treatment. Further tests are run with the Solartron™ CellTest potentiostat syste, which, allows us to study the electrical properties of the nanocomposites. The composites synthesized have wide applications in number of fields, including energy, sensors and electronics.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yusoff, Yusriha Mohd; Salimi, Midhat Nabil Ahmad; Anuar, Adilah

Many studies have been carried out in order to prepare hydroxyapatite (HAp) by various methods. In this study, we focused on the preparation of HAp nanoparticles by using sol-gel technique in which few parameters are optimized which were stirring rate, aging time and sintering temperature. HAp nanoparticles were prepared by using precursors of calcium nitrate tetrahydrate, Ca(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}.4H{sub 2}O and phosphorous pentoxide, P{sub 2}O{sub 5}. Both precursors are mixed in ethanol respectively before they were mixed together in which it formed a stable sol. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used formore » its characterization in terms of functional group, phase composition, crystallite size and morphology of the nanoparticles produced. FTIR spectra showed that the functional groups that present in all five samples were corresponding to the formation of HAp. Besides, XRD shows that only one phase was formed which was hydroxyapatite. Meanwhile, SEM shows that the small particles combine together to form agglomeration.« less

Preparation of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by sol-gel method with optimum processing parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yusoff, Yusriha Mohd; Salimi, Midhat Nabil Ahmad; Anuar, Adilah

2015-05-01

Many studies have been carried out in order to prepare hydroxyapatite (HAp) by various methods. In this study, we focused on the preparation of HAp nanoparticles by using sol-gel technique in which few parameters are optimized which were stirring rate, aging time and sintering temperature. HAp nanoparticles were prepared by using precursors of calcium nitrate tetrahydrate, Ca(NO3)2.4H2O and phosphorous pentoxide, P2O5. Both precursors are mixed in ethanol respectively before they were mixed together in which it formed a stable sol. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for its characterization in terms of functional group, phase composition, crystallite size and morphology of the nanoparticles produced. FTIR spectra showed that the functional groups that present in all five samples were corresponding to the formation of HAp. Besides, XRD shows that only one phase was formed which was hydroxyapatite. Meanwhile, SEM shows that the small particles combine together to form agglomeration.

A study of silver species on silver-exchanged ETS-10 and mordenite by XRD, SEM and solid-state 109Ag, 29Si and 27AI NMR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Liu, Yan; Chen, Fu; Wasylishen, Roderick E; Xu, Zhenghe; Sawada, James; Kuznicki, Steven M

2012-08-01

Silver zeolites, especially Ag-ETS-10 and Ag-mordenite, actively bind xenon and iodine, two prime contaminants common to nuclear accidents. The evolution of silver species on silver exchanged ETS-10 (Ag/ETS-10) and mordenite (Ag/Mor) has been investigated by exposing the materials to a series of activation conditions in Ar, air and H2. The samples were characterized by XRD, SEM and solid-state 109Ag, 29Si and 27AI MAS NMR. The silver reduction and structural evolution have been illustrated by those techniques. The effectiveness of one sample of each type of sieve was tested for its ability to trap mercury from a gas stream. However, the results from this study demonstrate that the adsorption characteristics of silver-loaded sieves cannot necessarily be predicted using a full complement of structural characterization techniques, which highlights the importance of understanding the formation and nature of silver species on molecular sieves.

Sonochemical synthesis and photocatalytic property of zinc oxide nanoparticles doped with magnesium(II)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lu, Xianyong, E-mail: xylu@buaa.edu.cn; Liu, Zhaoyue; Zhu, Ying

2011-10-15

Highlights: {yields} Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by sonochemical strategy. {yields} Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles present good photocatalytic properties. {yields} The change of band gap contributes to their high efficiency in photocatalyst. -- Abstract: Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by sonochemical method. The products were characterized by scan electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). SEM images revealed that ZnO doped with Mg(II) nanoparticles and ZnO nanoparticles synthesized by the same strategy all had spherical topography. XRD patterns showed that the doped nanoparticles had the same crystals structures as the pure ZnO nanoparticles. The Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles had largermore » lattice volume than the un-doped nanoparticles. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) not only demonstrated the moral ratio of Mg and Zn element on the surface of nanoparticles, but their valence in nanoparticles as well. The Mg-doped ZnO nanoparticles presented good properties in photocatalyst compared with pure ZnO nanoparticles.« less

Synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles from egg shells by sol-gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azis, Y.; Adrian, M.; Alfarisi, C. D.; Khairat; Sri, R. M.

2018-04-01

Hydroxyapatite, [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, (HAp)] is widely used in medical fields especially as a bone and teeth substitute. Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles have been succesfully synthesized from egg shells as a source of calcium by using sol-gel method. The egg shells were calcined, hydrated (slaking) and undergone carbonation to form Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC).Then the PCC was added (NH4)2HPO4 to form HAp with variation the mole ratio Ca and P (1.57; 1.67 and 1.77), aging time (24, 48, and 72 hr) and under basic condition pH (9, 10 and 11). The formation of hydroxyapatite biomaterial was characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM-EDX. The XRD patterns showed that the products were hydroxyapatite crystals. The best result was obtained at 24 hr aging time, pH 9 with hexagonal structure of hydroxyapatite. Particle size of HAp was 35-54 nm and the morphology of hydroxyapatite observed using SEM, it showed that the uniformity crystal of hydroxyapatite.

Study of lattice strain and optical properties of nanocrystalline SnO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Naseem; Khan, Shakeel; Bhargava, Richa; Ansari, Mohd Mohsin Nizam

2018-05-01

Nanocrystalline SnO2 has been synthesized by co-precipitation method by using two solvents (water and ethylene glycol). The structure and surface morphology were investigated using XRD and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The optical properties were studied using diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). From the XRD analysis, the prepared materials are found to be pure crystalline with tetragonal rutile structure. The lattice strain and crystallite size, were calculated using Williamson-Hall method, are found to be 0.00413 & 16.3 nm in water assisted SnO2 and 0.00495 & 35.6 nm for EG assisted SnO2. Study of surface morphology of the samples was carried out using SEM. It has been seen that the solvents which are used in synthesis can also alter the optical properties of the materials. The optical band gap of the water based SnO2 and EG based SnO2 are found to be 3.92eV and 3.86eV respectively.

Rapid green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by aqueous extract of seeds of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basu, Shibani; Maji, Priyankar; Ganguly, Jhuma

2016-01-01

The present study explores that the aqueous extract of the seeds of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (aka night jasmine) is very efficient for the synthesis of stable AgNPs from aqueous solution of AgNO3. The extract acts as both reducing (from Ag+ to Ag0) and capping agent in the aqueous phase. The constituents in extract are mainly biomolecules like carbohydrates and phenolic compounds, which are responsible for the preparation of stable AgNPs within 20 min of reaction time at 25 °C using without any severe conditions. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized with UV-Visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD and SEM. UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis showed peak at 420 nm, which corresponds to the surface plasmon resonance of AgNPs. XRD results showed peaks at (111), (200), (220), which confirmed the presence of AgNPs with face-centered cubic structure. The uniform spherical nature of the AgNPs and size (between 50 and 80 nm) were further confirmed by SEM analysis.

Y-TZP zirconia regeneration firing: Microstructural and crystallographic changes after grinding.

PubMed

Ryan, Daniel Patrick Obelenis; Fais, Laiza Maria Grassi; Antonio, Selma Gutierrez; Hatanaka, Gabriel Rodrigues; Candido, Lucas Miguel; Pinelli, Ligia Antunes Pereira

2017-07-26

This study evaluated microstructural and crystallographic phase changes after grinding (G) and regeneration firing/anneling (R) of Y-TZP ceramics. Thirty five bars (Lava TM and Ice Zirkon) were divided: Y-TZP pre-sintered, control (C), regeneration firing (R), dry grinding (DG), dry grinding+regeneration firing (DGR), wet grinding (WG) and wet grinding+regeneration firing (WGR). Grinding was conducted using a diamond bur and annealing at 1,000°C. The microstructure was analyzed by SEM and the crystalline phases by X-ray diffraction (XRD). XRD showed that pre-sintered specimens contained tetragonal and monoclinic phases, while groups C and R showed tetragonal, cubic and monoclinic phases. After grinding, the cubic phase was eliminated in all groups. Annealing (DGR and WGR) resulted in only tetragonal phase. SEM showed semi-circular cracks after grinding and homogenization of particles after annealing. After grinding, surfaces show tetragonal and monoclinic phases and R can be assumed to be necessary prior to porcelain layering when grinding is performed.

Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles using Anthocyanin as a Capping Agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Septiani, N. L. W.; Yuliarto, B.; Iqbal, M.; Nugraha

2017-05-01

Zinc Oxide nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized by utilizing anthocyanin as a capping agent by thermal decomposition of precursor route. The influence of the high and low concentrations of the anthocyanin to the shape and size of ZnO was investigated in this work. The anthocyanin was obtained from Indonesia black rice extract with methanol as a solvent. The crystallinity and morphology properties were characterized by X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), respectively. XRD result showed that ZnO was formed with good crystallinity without any second phase and had a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure. SEM result revealed that ZnO with a low concentration of anthocyanin has a spherical shape with a uniform size of about 16 nm while ZnO with a high concentration of anthocyanin has a rod-like shape. The size of spherical ZnO in this work is smaller than ZnO from the same method of synthesis without anthocyanin (~30 nm).

Investigation of structural resorption behavior of biphasic bioceramics with help of gravimetry, μCT, SEM, and XRD.

PubMed

de Wild, Michael; Amacher, Fabienne; Bradbury, Christopher R; Molenberg, Aart

2016-04-01

Resorbable bone substitute materials are widely used for bone augmentation after tumor resection, parallel to implant placement, or in critical size bone defects. In this study, the structural dissolution of a biphasic calcium phosphate bone substitute material with a hydroxyapatite (HA)/tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) ratio of 60/40 was investigated by repeatedly placing porous blocks in EDTA solution at 37 °C. At several time points, the blocks were investigated by SEM, µCT, and gravimetry. It was found that always complete 2-3 µm sized grains were removed from the structure and that the β-TCP is dissolved more rapidly. This selective dissolution of the β-TCP grains was confirmed by XRD measurements. The blocks were eroded from the outside toward the center. The structure remained mechanically stable because the central part showed a delayed degradation and because the slower dissolving HA grains preserved the integrity of the structure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effect of CTAB concentration on synthesis of nickel doped manganese oxide nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shobana, R.; Saravanakumar, B.; Ravi, G.; Yuvakkumar, R.

2018-05-01

In this work the effect of concentration of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in the synthesis of Nickel doped Manganese oxide (Ni-MnO2) nanoparticles have been carried out by adopting the sol-gel process. The synthesized products were characterized by XRD, Infra- Red (FTIR) and SEM analysis. The XRD confirms the formation of Ni-MnO2 nanoparticles illustrate peak at 31.4° with lattice plane (-231). The IR spectra correspond to the peak at 592 and 846 cm-1 attributed to the characteristics peak for Ni-MnO2 nanoparticles. The SEM images for all three Ni-MnO2 nanoparticles for different concentration of CTAB allows us to assess the formation route of nano tentacles from 10 mM, 30 mM and 50 mM. The configured nano tentacles of Ni-MnO2 nanoparticles presumably leads to more significantly change its properties, particularly in its electrochemical properties show the ways to be suitable candidates for supercapacitor, battery, photo catalytic and fuel cell applications.

Study on structure and morphology (Boehmeria nivea) in the irregular and regular parts of the fiber after biodegumming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wulandari, A. P.; Septarini, D.; Zainuddin, A.

2017-05-01

Ramie is a natural fiber that is very potential to be developed in Indonesia. Decorticated-fiber which has been known as china grass produce different structures irregular part but shows a long straight section in the middle. This study aims to determine differences in chemical components, morphology and microstructure of two different parties after biodegumming process. China grass has been processed to remove gum using pectinolytic fungus. The microstructure of the treated was further tested by Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The FTIR study indicated that during the biodegumming process, chemical bonding of non-cellulose components most removed by the activity of pectinase from the fungus. XRD analysis reflects an increase in the crystallinity of the fiber after biodegumming. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to confirm a reduction in the size of the fiber after biodegumming either in the irregular and regular part of the fiber after biodegumming.

Structural, morphological and optical studies of ripple-structured ZnO thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Navin, Kumar; Kurchania, Rajnish

2015-11-01

Ripple-structured ZnO thin films were prepared on Si (100) substrate by sol-gel spin-coating method with different heating rates during preheating process and finally sintered at 500 °C for 2 h in ambient condition. The structural, morphological and photoluminescence (PL) properties of the nanostructured films were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and PL spectroscopy. XRD analysis revealed that films have hexagonal wurtzite structure and texture coefficient increases along (002) plane with preheating rate. The faster heating rate produced higher crystallization and larger average crystallite size. The AFM and SEM images indicate that all the films have uniformly distributed ripple structure with skeletal branches. The number of ripples increases, while the rms roughness, amplitude and correlation length of the ripple structure decrease with preheating rates. The PL spectra show the presence of different defects in the structure. The ultraviolet emission improved with the heating rate which indicates its better crystallinity.

Improved magnetic and electrical properties of Cu doped Fe-Ni invar alloys synthesized by chemical reduction technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Sajjad; Ziya, Amer Bashir; Ashiq, Muhammad Naeem; Ibrahim, Ather; Atiq, Shabbar; Ahmad, Naseeb; Shakeel, Muhammad; Khan, Muhammad Azhar

2016-12-01

Fe-Ni-Cu invar alloys of various compositions (Fe65Ni35-xCux, x=0, 0.2, 0.6, 1, 1.4 and 1.8) were synthesized via chemical reduction route. These alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) techniques. The XRD analysis revealed the formation of face centered cubic (fcc) structure. The lattice parameter and the crystallite size of the investigated alloys were calculated and the line broadening indicated the nano-crystallites size of alloy powder. The particle size was estimated from SEM and it decreases by the incorporation of Cu and found to be in the range of 24-40 nm. The addition of Cu in these alloys appreciably enhances the saturation magnetization and it increases from 99 to 123 emu/g. Electrical conductivity has been improved with Cu addition. The thermal conductivity was calculated using the Wiedemann-Franz law.

Evaluation of electrical properties of Cr/CrN nano-multilayers for electronic applications.

PubMed

Marulanda, D M; Olaya, J J; Patiño, E J

2011-06-01

The electrical properties of Cr/CrN nano-multilayers produced by Unbalanced Magnetron Sputtering have been studied as a function of bilayer period and total thickness. Two groups of multilayers were produced: in the first group the bilayer period varied between 20 nm, 100 nm and 200 nm with total thickness of 1 microm, and in the second group the bilayer period varied between 25 nm, 50 nm and 100 nm and a total thickness of 100 nm. X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used in order to investigate the microstructure characteristics of the multilayers, and the Four Point Probe (FPP) method was used to evaluate in-plane and transverse electrical resistivity. XRD results show (111) and (200) orientations for all the CrN coatings and the presence of a multilayer structure was confirmed through SEM studies. Transverse electrical resistivity results show that this property is strongly dependent on the bilayer period.

Metal copper films deposited on cenosphere particles by magnetron sputtering method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Xiaozheng; Xu, Zheng; Shen, Zhigang

2007-05-01

Metal copper films with thicknesses from several nanometres to several micrometres were deposited on the surface of cenosphere particles by the magnetron sputtering method under different working conditions. An ultrasonic vibrating generator equipped with a conventional magnetron sputtering apparatus was used to prevent the cenosphere substrates from accumulating during film growth. The surface morphology, the chemical composition, the average grain size and the crystallization of cenosphere particles were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), inductively coupled plasma-atom emission spectrometer, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, respectively, before and after the plating process. The results indicate that the copper films were successfully deposited on cenosphere particles. It was found from the FE-SEM results that the films were well compacted and highly uniform in thickness. The XRD results show that the copper film coated on cenospheres has a face centred cubic structure and the crystallization of the film sample increases with increasing sputtering power.

Progress toward Synthesis and Characterization of Rare-Earth Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romero, Dulce G.; Ho, Pei-Chun; Attar, Saeed; Margosan, Dennis

2010-03-01

Magnetic nanoparticles exhibit interesting phenomena, such as enhanced magnetization and reduced magnetic ordering temperature (i.e. superparamagnetism), which has technical applications in industry, including magnetic storage, magnetic imaging, and magnetic refrigeration. We used the inverse micelle technique to synthesize Gd and Nd nanoparticles given its potential to control the cluster size, amount of aggregation, and prevent oxidation of the rare-earth elements. Gd and Nd were reduced by NaBH4 from the chloride salt. The produced clusters were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The results from the XRD show that the majority of the peaks match those of the surfactant, DDAB. No peaks of Gd were observed due to excess surfactant or amorphous clusters. However, the results from the SEM and EDX indicate the presence of Gd and Nd in our clusters microscopically, and current synthesized samples contain impurities. We are using liquid-liquid extraction method to purify the sample, and the results will be discussed.

Shock induced reaction of Ni/Al nanopowder mixture.

PubMed

Meng, C M; Wei, J J; Chen, Q Y

2012-11-01

Nanopowder Ni/Al mixture (mixed in Al:Ni = 2:1 stoichiometry) was shock compressed by employing single and two-stage light gas gun. The particle size of Al and Ni are 100-200 nm and 50-70 nm respectively, morphologies of Al and Ni are sphere like either. Recovered product was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. According to the XRD spectrum, the mixed powder undergo complete reaction under shock compression, reaction product consist of Ni2Al3, NiAl and corundum structure Al2O3 compound. Grain size of Ni-Al compound is less than 100 nm. With the shock pressure increasing, the ratio of Ni2Al3 decreased obviously. The corundum crystal size is 400-500 nm according to the SEM observation. The results of shock recovery experiments and analysis show that the threshold pressure for reaction of nano size powder Ni/Al mixture is much less than that of micro size powder.

CMC stabilized nano silver synthesis, characterization and its antibacterial and synergistic effect with broad spectrum antibiotics.

PubMed

Prema, P; Thangapandiyan, S; Immanuel, G

2017-02-20

In the present study silver nanoparticles were synthesized by reduction of AgNO 3 using aqueous CMC solution, which acts as both reducing and capping agent. The formation of AgNO 3 nanoparticles was observed visually by color change and these nanoparticles were characterized through UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDS and AFM. The FTIR peaks observed to be ranging from 3300 to 605cm -1 . The AFM image clearly showed the surface morphology of well dispersed nanoparticles. SEM image illustrates the nanoparticles with spherical shape. The crystalline nature of the particles was assured by XRD analysis. The antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles was tested against human bacterial pathogens (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium &Vibrio vulnificus). The bacterial growth was highly inhibited by the nanoparticles. The synergistic effect of nanoparticles in combination with selected broad spectrum antibiotics against the tested bacteria determined strong growth inhibitory activity. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Controlled synthesis of nanostructured molybdenum oxide electrodes for high performance supercapacitor devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maheswari, Nallappan; Muralidharan, Gopalan

2017-09-01

Well defined crystallographic and one dimensional morphological structure of molybdenum oxide were successfully synthesized by adjusting the duration of hydrothermal treatment. The prepared molybdenum oxide was examined through XRD, SEM, FTIR, TEM, BET and electrochemical studies. The XRD patterns illustrate that MoOx prepared by variying the hydrothermal reaction time are in different crystallographic structure of MoyOx (Mo8O23 and MoO3). SEM studies reveal the different morphological structures ranging from flake like morphology to nanorods. TEM images confirm the excellent nanorod structure. The nanorod structure ensures good cyclic behaviour with maximum capacitance of 1080 F g-1 at a current density of 2 A g-1. This large capacity of the MoO3 nanostructures enabled fabrication of symmetric and asymmertic supercapacitor devices. The asymmertic device exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of 145 F g-1 at 2 mV s-1 with highest energy density of 38.6 W h kg-1 at 374.7 W kg-1 power density.

Innovative plasticized alginate obtained by thermo-mechanical mixing: Effect of different biobased polyols systems.

PubMed

Gao, Chengcheng; Pollet, Eric; Avérous, Luc

2017-02-10

Plasticized alginate films with different biobased polyols (glycerol and sorbitol) and their mixtures were successfully prepared by thermo-mechanical mixing instead of the usual casting-evaporation procedure. The microstructure and properties of the different plasticized alginate formulations were investigated by SEM, FTIR, XRD, DMTA and uniaxial tensile tests. SEM and XRD results showed that native alginate particles were largely destructured with the plasticizers (polyols and water), under a thermo-mechanical input. With increasing amount of plasticizers, the samples showed enhanced homogeneity while their thermal and mechanical properties decreased. Compared to sorbitol, glycerol resulted in alginate films with a higher flexibility due to its better plasticization efficiency resulting from its smaller size and higher hydrophilic character. Glycerol and sorbitol mixtures seemed to be an optimum to obtain the best properties. This work showed that thermo-mechanical mixing is a promising method to produce, at large scale, plasticized alginate-based films with improved properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characteristics of a thick film ethanol gas sensor made of mechanically treated LaFeO3 powder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suhendi, Endi; Witra, Hasanah, Lilik; Syarif, Dani Gustaman

2017-05-01

In this work, fabrication of LaFeO3 thick film ceramics for ethanol gas sensor made of mechanically treated (milling) powder was studied. The thick films were fabricated using screen printing technique from LaFeO3 powder treated by HEM (High Energy Milling). The films were baked at 800°C for one hour and analyzed using XRD and SEM. Sensitivity of the films was studied by measuring resistance of them at various temperatures in a chamber containing air with and without ethanol gas. Data of XRD showed that the thick film crystalizes in orthorombic structure with space group of Pn*a. SEM data showed that the films consisted of small grains with grain size of about 225 nm. According to the electrical data, the LaFeO3 thick films that produced in this work could be applied as ethanol gas with operating temperature of about 275°C.

Synthesis of SrFe12O19 magnetic nanoparticles by EDTA complex method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shifa; Li, Danming; Xiao, Yuhua; Dang, Wenqiang; Feng, Jie

2017-10-01

A modified polyacrylamide gel route was used to prepare SrFe12O19 magnetic nanoparticles; ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) was used as a carboxyl chelating agent. The phase purity, morphology and magnetic properties of as-prepared samples were analyzed via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and vibrating sample magnetometery (VSM). XRD analysis indicates that high-purity SrFe12O19 magnetic nanoparticles can be synthesized at 700°C in air. The characteristic peaks of as-prepared sample at 210, 283, 321, 340, 381, 411, 432, 475, 532, 618, 686, and 726 cm-1 were observed in Raman spectra. SEM and TEM show that the synthesized SrFe12O19 magnetic nanoparticles are uniform with the mean particle size of 60 nm. VSM measurement shows that the maximum magnetic energy product (BH)max of sample prepared using EDTA as a chelating agent is higher than that of sample prepared using citric acid as a chelating agent.

Spectroscopic studies on sidewall carboxylic acid functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with valine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deborah, M.; Jawahar, A.; Mathavan, T.; Dhas, M. Kumara; Benial, A. Milton Franklin

2015-03-01

The valine functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTS) were prepared and characterized by using XRD, UV-Vis, FT-IR, EPR, SEM, and EDX, spectroscopic techniques. The enhanced XRD peak (0 0 2) intensity was observed for valine functionalized MWCNTs compared with oxidized MWCNTs, which is likely due to sample purification by acid washing. UV-Vis study shows the formation of valine functionalized MWCNTs. FT-IR study confirms the presence of functional groups of oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs. The ESR line shape analysis indicates that the observed EPR line shape is a Gaussian line shape. The g-values indicate that the systems are isotropic in nature. The morphology study was carried out for oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs by using SEM. The EDX spectra revealed that the high purity of oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs. The functionalization has been chosen because, functionalization of CNTs with amino acids makes them soluble and biocompatible. Thus, they have potential applications in the field of biosensors and targeted drug delivery.

Eco-friendly and green synthesis of BiVO4 nanoparticle using microwave irradiation as photocatalayst for the degradation of Alizarin Red S

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abraham, S. Daniel; David, S. Theodore; Bennie, R. Biju; Joel, C.; Kumar, D. Sanjay

2016-06-01

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) nanocrystals have been successfully synthesised using microwave-assisted combustion synthesis (MCS), and characterised using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectra, surface area analysis (BET), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), diffused reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The XRD results confirmed the formation of monoclinic bismuth vanadate. The formations of BiO & VO43-vibrations were ascertained from FT-IR data. The morphology of hallow internal structural micro entities were confirmed by SEM. The optical properties were determined by DRS and PL spectra. Hence, the influence of the preparation methods on the structure, morphology and optical activities of bismuth vanadate was investigated systematically. Photocatalytic degradation (PCD) of Alizarin Red S (ARS), an effective disrupting chemical in aqueous medium was investigated using BiVO4 nanoparticles. The kinetics of PCD was found to follow pseudo first-order.

Reduced graphene oxide composites with water soluble copolymers having tailored lower critical solution temperatures and unique tube-like structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Namvari, Mina; Biswas, Chandra S.; Galluzzi, Massimiliano; Wang, Qiao; Du, Bing; Stadler, Florian J.

2017-03-01

Nanohybrids of graphene with water soluble polymer were synthesized using ‘grafting from’ method. GO, prepared by modified Hummers’ method, was first reacted with sodium azide. Alkyne-terminated RAFT-CTA was synthesized by reaction of propargyl alcohol and S-1-dodecyl-S’-(α,α‘-dimethyl-α”-acetic acid) trithiocarbonate. RAFT-CTA was grafted onto the GO sheets by facile click-reaction and subsequently, N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and N-ethyleacrylamide (NEAM) were polymerized on graphene sheets via RAFT polymerization method. The respective copolymers with different ratios were also prepared. The nanohybrids were characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, Raman, SEM, and AFM. Both SEM and AFM clearly showed rod-like structures for rGO-PNEAM. XRD showed a small peak at 2θ = 19.21°, corresponding to d-spacing ≈ 4.6 Å. In addition, the nanohybrids showed a very broad temperature range for the LCST in water between ca. 30 and 70 °C.

Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Microwave Sintered Cu50Ti50 Amorphous Alloy Reinforced Al Metal Matrix Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy, M. Penchal; Ubaid, F.; Shakoor, R. A.; Mohamed, A. M. A.

2018-06-01

In the present work, Al metal matrix composites reinforced with Cu-based (Cu50Ti50) amorphous alloy particles synthesized by ball milling followed by a microwave sintering process were studied. The amorphous powders of Cu50Ti50 produced by ball milling were used to reinforce the aluminum matrix. They were examined by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microhardness and compression testing. The analysis of XRD patterns of the samples containing 5 vol.%, 10 vol.% and 15 vol.% Cu50Ti50 indicates the presence of Al and Cu50Ti50 peaks. SEM images of the sintered composites show the uniform distribution of reinforced particles within the matrix. Mechanical properties of the composites were found to increase with an increasing volume fraction of Cu50Ti50 reinforcement particles. The hardness and compressive strength were enhanced to 89 Hv and 449 MPa, respectively, for the Al-15 vol.% Cu50Ti50 composites.

Epitaxial growth of the zinc oxide nanorods, their characterization and in vitro biocompatibility studies.

PubMed

Gopikrishnan, Ramya; Zhang, Kai; Ravichandran, Prabakaran; Biradar, Santhoshkumar; Ramesh, Vani; Goornavar, Virupaxi; Jeffers, Robert B; Pradhan, Aswini; Hall, Joseph C; Baluchamy, Sudhakar; Ramesh, Govindarajan T

2011-10-01

Here, we have synthesized Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanorods at room temperature using zinc acetate and hexamethylenetetramine as precursors followed by characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infra red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy. The growth of the synthesized ZnO was found to be very close to its hexagonal nature, which is confirmed by XRD. The nanorods were grown perpendicular to the long-axis and grew along the [001] direction, which is the nature of ZnO growth. The morphology of the synthesized ZnO nanorods was also confirmed by SEM. The size of the nanorod was estimated to be around 20-25 nm in diameter and approximately 50-60 nm in length. Our biocompatibility studies using synthesized ZnO showed no significant dose- or time-dependent increase in the formation of free radicals, accumulation of peroxidative products, antioxidant depletion or loss of cell viability on lung epithelial cells.

Physicochemical characterization of chitosan/nylon6/polyurethane foam chemically cross-linked ternary blends.

PubMed

Jayakumar, S; Sudha, P N

2013-03-15

Chitosan/nylon6/polyurethane foam (CS/Ny6/PUF) ternary blend was prepared and chemically cross-linked with glutaraldehyde. Structural, thermal and morphological studies were performed for the prepared ternary blends. Characterizations of the ternary blends were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The FTIR results showed that the strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds took place between CS, Ny6 and PUF. TGA and DSC studies reveal that the thermal stability of the blend is enhanced by glutaraldehyde as crosslinking agent. Results of XRD indicated that the relative crystalline of pure CS film was reduced when the polymeric network was reticulated by glutaraldehyde. Finally, the results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated that the morphology of the blend is rough and heterogeneous, further it confirms the interaction between the functional groups of the blend components. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chitosan nanocomposite films based on Ag-NP and Au-NP biosynthesis by Bacillus Subtilis as packaging materials.

PubMed

Youssef, Ahmed M; Abdel-Aziz, Mohamed S; El-Sayed, Samah M

2014-08-01

Chitosan-silver (CS-Ag) and Chitosan-gold (CS-Au) nanocomposites films were synthesized by a simple chemical method. A local bacterial isolate identified as Bacillus subtilis ss subtilis was found to be capable to synthesize both silver nanoparticles (Ag-NP) and gold nanoparticles (Au-NP) from silver nitrate (AgNO3) and chloroauric acid (AuCl(4-)) solutions, respectively. The biosynthesis of both Ag-NP and Au-NP characterize using UV/vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and then added to chitosan by different ratios (0.5, 1 and 2%). The prepared chitosan nanocomposites films were characterize using UV, XRD, SEM and TEM. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the prepared films was evaluated against gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aerugenosa), fungi (Aspergillus niger) and yeast (Candida albicans). Therefore, these materials can be potential used as antimicrobial agents in packaging applications. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Facile synthesis of Co3O4 hexagonal plates by flux method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Ji-Long; Meng, Qing-Fen; Gao, Sheng-Li

2018-01-01

Using a novel flux method, a hexagonal plate of Co3O4 was directly synthesized. In this method, CoCl2·6H2O, NaOH, and the cosolvent H3BO3 were heated to 750 °C for 2 h in a corundum crucible. The products were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). Furthermore, XRD studies indicated that the product consisted of a cubic phase of Co3O4, and the phase existed in a completely crystalline form. Then, SEM results indicated that these hexagonal plates tiered up and they had diameters in the range of 2-10 μm. According to the results of SAED and HRTEM analyses, the interlayer spacing was about 0.24 nm, which corresponds to the interlayer distance of (3 1 1) crystal plane of cubic Co3O4.

Effect of RE (Nd3+, Sm3+) oxide on structural, optical properties of Na2O-Li2O-ZnO-B2O3 glass system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hivrekar, Mahesh M.; Bhoyar, D. N.; Mande, V. K.; Dhole, V. V.; Solunke, M. B.; Jadhav, K. M.

2018-05-01

Zinc borate glass activated with rare earth oxide (Nd2O3, Sm2O3) of Na2O-Li2O-ZnO-B2O3 quaternary system has been prepared successfully by melt quenching method. The nucleation and growth of RE oxide were controlled temperature range 950-1000° C and rapid cooling at room temperature. The physical, structural and optical properties were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), SEM, Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). XRD and SEM studies confirmed the amorphous nature, surface morphology of prepared zinc borate glass. The physical parameters like density, molar volume, molar mass of Nd3+, Sm3+ doped borate glass are summarized in the present article. The optical absorption spectra along with tauc's plot are presented. The optical energy band gap increases due to the addition of rare earth oxide confirming the role of network modifier.

Green engineering of biomolecule-coated metallic silver nanoparticles and their potential cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasannaraj, Govindaraj; Venkatachalam, Perumal

2017-06-01

This report describes the synthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using extracts of four medicinal plants (Aegle marmelos (A. marmelos), Alstonia scholaris (A. scholaris), Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata) and Centella asiatica (C. asiatica)). The bio-conjugates were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and zeta potential. This analysis confirmed that UV-Vis spectral peaks at 375 nm, 380 nm, 420 nm and 380 nm are corresponding to A. marmelos, A. scholaris, A. paniculata and C. asiatica mediated AgNPs, respectively. SEM images revealed that all the obtained four AgNPs are predominantly spherical, fibres and rectangle in shape with an average size of 36-97 nm. SEM-EDS and XRD analysis confirmed the presence of elemental AgNPs in crystalline form for all the four nanoparticle samples. The phytochemicals of various medicinal plant extracts with different functional groups were responsible for reduction of Ag+ to AgNPs, which act as capping and stabilizing agent. Among four types of AgNPs tested for anticancer activity, the Ap mediated AgNPs had shown enhanced activity against HepG2 cells (27.01 µg ml-1) and PC3 cells (32.15 µg ml-1).

Porous bodies of hydroxyapatite produced by a combination of the gel-casting and polymer sponge methods

PubMed Central

González Ocampo, Jazmín I.; Escobar Sierra, Diana M.; Ossa Orozco, Claudia P.

2015-01-01

A combination of gel-casting and polymeric foam infiltration methods is used in this study to prepare porous bodies of hydroxyapatite (HA), to provide a better control over the microstructures of samples. These scaffolds were prepared by impregnating a body of porous polyurethane foam with slurry containing HA powder, and using a percentage of solids between 40% and 50% w/v, and three different types of monomers to provide a better performance. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transformed Infrared (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were employed to evaluate both the powder hydroxyapatite and the scaffolds obtained. In addition, porosity and interconnectivity measurements were taken in accordance with the international norm. Bioactivity was checked using immersion tests in Simulated Body Fluids (SBF). After the sintering process of the porous bodies, the XRD results showed peaks characteristic of a pure and crystalline HA (JCPDS 9-432) as a single phase. SEM images indicate open and interconnected pores inside the material, with pore sizes between 50 and 600 μm. Also, SEM images demonstrate the relatively good bioactivity of the HA scaffolds after immersion in SBF. All results for the porous HA bodies suggest that these materials have great potential for use in tissue engineering. PMID:26966570

Role of different chelating agent in synthesis of copper doped tin oxide (Cu-SnO2) nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saravanakumar, B.; Anusiya, A.; Rani, B. Jansi; Ravi, G.; Yuvakkumar, R.

2018-05-01

An attempt was made to synthesis the copper doped tin oxide (Cu-SnO2) nanoparticles by adopting different chelating agents (NaOH, KOH and C2H2O4) by Sol-gel process. The synthesized products were characterized by XRD, Photoluminescence (PL), Infra- Red (FTIR) and SEM analysis. The XRD confirms the formation of Cu-SnO2 shows the maximum peak at 33.8° with lattice plane (101). The PL peak at 361 and 382 nm due to the recombination of electron in conduction band to valence band infers the optical properties. The IR spectra correspond to the peak at 551 and 620 cm-1 attributed to the characteristics peak for Cu-SnO2 nanoparticles. The SEM images for all three Cu-SnO2 nanoparticles formed by three chelating agent (NaOH, KOH and C2H2O4) facilitates the formation mechanism and the chelating agent Oxalic acid results in formation of nano flowers with diverse layers orientated in random direction. Further SEM studies reveal that, the Cu-SnO2 nanoparticles formed by oxalic acid could posses high surface area with large number layered structured enables the better electrochemical properties and its applications.

Flexible magnetic membranes based on bacterial cellulose and its evaluation as electromagnetic interference shielding material.

PubMed

Marins, Jéssica A; Soares, Bluma G; Barud, Hernane S; Ribeiro, Sidney J L

2013-10-01

Flexible magnetic membranes with high proportion of magnetite were successfully prepared by previous impregnation of the never dried bacterial cellulose pellicles with ferric chloride followed by reduction with sodium bisulfite and alkaline treatment for magnetite precipitation. Membranes were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating magnetometer, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) and impedance spectroscopy. Microwave properties of these membranes were investigated in the X-band (8.2 to 12.4 GHz). FEG-SEM micrographs show an effective coverage of the BC nanofibers by Fe3O4 nanoparticles. Membranes with up to 75% in weight of particles have been prepared after 60 min of reaction. Magnetite nanoparticles in the form of aggregates well adhered to the BC fibers were observed by SEM. The average crystal sizes of the magnetic particles were in the range of 10±1 to 13±1 nm (estimated by XRD). The magnetic particles in the BC pellicles presented superparamagnetic behavior with a saturation magnetization in the range of 60 emu g(-1) and coercive force around 15 Oe. These magnetic pellicles also displayed high electrical permittivity and a potential application as microwave absorber materials. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structural properties and electrochemistry of α-LiFeO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdel-Ghany, A. E.; Mauger, A.; Groult, H.; Zaghib, K.; Julien, C. M.

2012-01-01

In this work, we study the physico-chemistry and electrochemistry of lithium ferrite synthesized by solid-state reaction. Characterization included X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), Raman scattering (RS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and SQUID magnetometry. XRD peaks gradually sharpen with increasing firing temperature; all the diffraction peaks can be indexed to the cubic α-LiFeO2 phase (Fm3m space group) with the refined cell parameter a = 4.155 Å. RS and FTIR spectra show the vibrational modes due to covalent Fe-O bonds and the Li-cage mode at low-frequency. The electrochemical properties of Li/LiFeO2 are revisited along with the post-mortem analysis of the positive electrode material using XRD and Raman experiments.

Rational engineering of nanoporous anodic alumina optical bandpass filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, Abel; Pereira, Taj; Law, Cheryl Suwen; Losic, Dusan

2016-08-01

Herein, we present a rationally designed advanced nanofabrication approach aiming at producing a new type of optical bandpass filters based on nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals. The photonic stop band of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) is engineered in depth by means of a pseudo-stepwise pulse anodisation (PSPA) approach consisting of pseudo-stepwise asymmetric current density pulses. This nanofabrication method makes it possible to tune the transmission bands of NAA at specific wavelengths and bandwidths, which can be broadly modified across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum through the anodisation period (i.e. time between consecutive pulses). First, we establish the effect of the anodisation period as a means of tuning the position and width of the transmission bands of NAA across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. To this end, a set of nanoporous anodic alumina bandpass filters (NAA-BPFs) are produced with different anodisation periods, ranging from 500 to 1200 s, and their optical properties (i.e. characteristic transmission bands and interferometric colours) are systematically assessed. Then, we demonstrate that the rational combination of stacked NAA-BPFs consisting of layers of NAA produced with different PSPA periods can be readily used to create a set of unique and highly selective optical bandpass filters with characteristic transmission bands, the position, width and number of which can be precisely engineered by this rational anodisation approach. Finally, as a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate that the superposition of stacked NAA-BPFs produced with slight modifications of the anodisation period enables the fabrication of NAA-BPFs with unprecedented broad transmission bands across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. The results obtained from our study constitute the first comprehensive rationale towards advanced NAA-BPFs with fully controllable photonic properties. These photonic crystal structures could become a promising alternative to traditional optical bandpass filters based on glass and plastic.Herein, we present a rationally designed advanced nanofabrication approach aiming at producing a new type of optical bandpass filters based on nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals. The photonic stop band of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) is engineered in depth by means of a pseudo-stepwise pulse anodisation (PSPA) approach consisting of pseudo-stepwise asymmetric current density pulses. This nanofabrication method makes it possible to tune the transmission bands of NAA at specific wavelengths and bandwidths, which can be broadly modified across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum through the anodisation period (i.e. time between consecutive pulses). First, we establish the effect of the anodisation period as a means of tuning the position and width of the transmission bands of NAA across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. To this end, a set of nanoporous anodic alumina bandpass filters (NAA-BPFs) are produced with different anodisation periods, ranging from 500 to 1200 s, and their optical properties (i.e. characteristic transmission bands and interferometric colours) are systematically assessed. Then, we demonstrate that the rational combination of stacked NAA-BPFs consisting of layers of NAA produced with different PSPA periods can be readily used to create a set of unique and highly selective optical bandpass filters with characteristic transmission bands, the position, width and number of which can be precisely engineered by this rational anodisation approach. Finally, as a proof-of-concept, we demonstrate that the superposition of stacked NAA-BPFs produced with slight modifications of the anodisation period enables the fabrication of NAA-BPFs with unprecedented broad transmission bands across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. The results obtained from our study constitute the first comprehensive rationale towards advanced NAA-BPFs with fully controllable photonic properties. These photonic crystal structures could become a promising alternative to traditional optical bandpass filters based on glass and plastic. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: An example demonstrating the effect of pore widening on the position and width of the transmission band of a NAA-BPF and a comprehensive table summarising the position and FWHM of the different bands of the NAA-BPFs produced in this study. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr03490j

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) induces neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line and sensitizes it to chemotherapeutic agents

PubMed Central

Mazzoccoli, Carmela; Ruggieri, Vitalba; Tataranni, Tiziana; Agriesti, Francesca; Laurenzana, Ilaria; Fratello, Angelo; Capitanio, Nazzareno; Piccoli, Claudia

2016-01-01

Neuroblastoma is the most commonly extra-cranial solid tumor of childhood frequently diagnosed. The nervous system-specific metabolite N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is synthesized from aspartate and acetyl-CoA in neurons, it is among the most abundant metabolites present in the central nervous system (CNS) and appears to be involved in many CNS disorders. The functional significance of the high NAA concentration in the brain remains uncertain, but it confers to NAA a unique clinical significance exploited in magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In the current study, we show that treatment of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma-derived cell line with sub-cytotoxic physiological concentrations of NAA inhibits cell growth. This effect is partly due to enhanced apoptosis, shown by decrease of the anti-apoptotic factors survivin and Bcl-xL, and partly to arrest of the cell-cycle progression, linked to enhanced expression of the cyclin-inhibitors p53, p21Cip1/Waf1 and p27Kip1. Moreover, NAA-treated SH-SY5Y cells exhibited morphological changes accompanied with increase of the neurogenic markers TH and MAP2 and down-regulation of the pluripotency markers OCT4 and CXCR4/CD184. Finally, NAA-pre-treated SH-SY5Y cells resulted more sensitive to the cytotoxic effect of the chemotherapeutic drugs Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil. To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the neuronal differentiating effects of NAA in neuroblastoma cells. NAA may be a potential preconditioning or adjuvant compound in chemotherapeutic treatment. PMID:27036033

N-Acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) and N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) in Patients With Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Jessen, Frank; Fingerhut, Natascha; Sprinkart, Alois M.; Kühn, Kai-Uwe; Petrovsky, Nadine; Maier, Wolfgang; Schild, Hans-H; Block, Wolfgang; Wagner, Michael; Träber, Frank

2013-01-01

Background : Imbalance of glutamatergic neurotransmission has been proposed as a key mechanism underlying symptoms of schizophrenia. The neuropetide N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) modulates glutamate release. NAAG provides a component of the proton magnetic resonance spectrum (1H-MRS) in humans. The signal of NAAG, however, largely overlaps with its precursor and degrading product N-acetylaspartate (NAA) that by itself does not act in glutamatergic neurotransmission. Methods: We quantified NAAG and NAA separately from the 1H-MRS signal in 20 patients with schizophrenia and 20 healthy comparison subjects on a 3.0 Tesla MR scanner. The 1H-MRS voxels were positioned in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and in the left frontal lobe. Psychopathological symptoms and cognitive performance were assessed. Results: In the ACC, the ratio NAAG/NAA was increased (P = .041) and NAAG was increased at a trend level (P = .066) in patients, while NAA was reduced (P = .030). NAA correlated with attention performance in patients (r = .64, P = .005) in the ACC. There was no group difference of NAAG, NAA, or NAAG/NAA in the frontal lobe but an inverse correlation of NAAG with negatives symptoms (Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale [PANSS] negative, r = −.58, P = .018) and with the total symptom score (PANSS total, r = −.50, P = .049). In addition, there was a positive correlation of frontal lobe NAAG (r = .53, P = .035) and NAAG/NAA (r = .54, P = .030) with episodic memory in patients. Conclusions: In this study, we present the first in vivo evidence for altered NAAG concentration in patients with schizophrenia. PMID:21914645

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) induces neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell line and sensitizes it to chemotherapeutic agents.

PubMed

Mazzoccoli, Carmela; Ruggieri, Vitalba; Tataranni, Tiziana; Agriesti, Francesca; Laurenzana, Ilaria; Fratello, Angelo; Capitanio, Nazzareno; Piccoli, Claudia

2016-05-03

Neuroblastoma is the most commonly extra-cranial solid tumor of childhood frequently diagnosed. The nervous system-specific metabolite N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is synthesized from aspartate and acetyl-CoA in neurons, it is among the most abundant metabolites present in the central nervous system (CNS) and appears to be involved in many CNS disorders. The functional significance of the high NAA concentration in the brain remains uncertain, but it confers to NAA a unique clinical significance exploited in magnetic resonance spectroscopy. In the current study, we show that treatment of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma-derived cell line with sub-cytotoxic physiological concentrations of NAA inhibits cell growth. This effect is partly due to enhanced apoptosis, shown by decrease of the anti-apoptotic factors survivin and Bcl-xL, and partly to arrest of the cell-cycle progression, linked to enhanced expression of the cyclin-inhibitors p53, p21Cip1/Waf1 and p27Kip1. Moreover, NAA-treated SH-SY5Y cells exhibited morphological changes accompanied with increase of the neurogenic markers TH and MAP2 and down-regulation of the pluripotency markers OCT4 and CXCR4/CD184. Finally, NAA-pre-treated SH-SY5Y cells resulted more sensitive to the cytotoxic effect of the chemotherapeutic drugs Cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil.To our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the neuronal differentiating effects of NAA in neuroblastoma cells. NAA may be a potential preconditioning or adjuvant compound in chemotherapeutic treatment.

N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in patients with schizophrenia.

PubMed

Jessen, Frank; Fingerhut, Natascha; Sprinkart, Alois M; Kühn, Kai-Uwe; Petrovsky, Nadine; Maier, Wolfgang; Schild, Hans-H; Block, Wolfgang; Wagner, Michael; Träber, Frank

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND : Imbalance of glutamatergic neurotransmission has been proposed as a key mechanism underlying symptoms of schizophrenia. The neuropetide N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) modulates glutamate release. NAAG provides a component of the proton magnetic resonance spectrum (1H-MRS) in humans. The signal of NAAG, however, largely overlaps with its precursor and degrading product N-acetylaspartate (NAA) that by itself does not act in glutamatergic neurotransmission. We quantified NAAG and NAA separately from the 1H-MRS signal in 20 patients with schizophrenia and 20 healthy comparison subjects on a 3.0 Tesla MR scanner. The 1H-MRS voxels were positioned in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and in the left frontal lobe. Psychopathological symptoms and cognitive performance were assessed. In the ACC, the ratio NAAG/NAA was increased (P = .041) and NAAG was increased at a trend level (P = .066) in patients, while NAA was reduced (P = .030). NAA correlated with attention performance in patients (r = .64, P = .005) in the ACC. There was no group difference of NAAG, NAA, or NAAG/NAA in the frontal lobe but an inverse correlation of NAAG with negatives symptoms (Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale [PANSS] negative, r = -.58, P = .018) and with the total symptom score (PANSS total, r = -.50, P = .049). In addition, there was a positive correlation of frontal lobe NAAG (r = .53, P = .035) and NAAG/NAA (r = .54, P = .030) with episodic memory in patients. In this study, we present the first in vivo evidence for altered NAAG concentration in patients with schizophrenia.

A cluster of culture positive gonococcal infections but with false negative cppB gene based PCR.

PubMed

Lum, G; Freeman, K; Nguyen, N L; Limnios, E A; Tabrizi, S N; Carter, I; Chambers, I W; Whiley, D M; Sloots, T P; Garland, S M; Tapsall, J W

2005-10-01

To describe the prevalence and characteristics of isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae grown from urine samples that produced negative results with nucleic acid amplification assays (NAA) targeting the cppB gene. An initial cluster of culture positive, but cppB gene based NAA negative, gonococcal infections was recognised. Urine samples and suspensions of gonococci isolated over 9 months in the Northern Territory of Australia were examined using cppB gene based and other non-cppB gene based NAA. The gonococcal isolates were phenotyped by determining the auxotype/serovar (A/S) class and genotyped by pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). 14 (9.8%) of 143 gonococci isolated were of A/S class Pro(-/)Brpyut, indistinguishable on PFGE and negative in cppB gene based, but not other, NAA. This cluster represents a temporal and geographic expansion of a gonococcal subtype lacking the cppB gene with consequent loss of sensitivity of NAA dependent on amplification of this target. Gonococci lacking the cppB gene have in the past been more commonly associated with the PAU-/PCU- auxotype, a gonococcal subtype hitherto infrequently encountered in Australia. NAA based on the cppB gene as a target may produce false positive as well as false negative NAA. This suggests that unless there is continuing comparison with culture to show their utility, cppB gene based NAA should be regarded as suboptimal for use either as a diagnostic or supplemental assay for diagnosis of gonorrhoea, and NAA with alternative amplification targets should be substituted.

Synthesis and characterization of metal oxide-polyaniline emeraldine salt based nanocomposite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, K. Siva; Kavitha, B.; Prabakar, K.; Srinivasu, D.; Srinivas, Ch.; Narsimlu, N.

2013-02-01

This paper describes the synthesis of TiO2 (core)/Polyaniline (shell) core-shell structured nanocomposites and characterization of the synthesized material. The morphological characterization is performed with XRD, SEM, DLS and SANS. Spectroscopic characterization is performed with FTIR, UV/Visible and ESR techniques.

Reduced NAA-levels in the NAWM of patients with MS is a feature of progression. A study with quantitative magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3 Tesla.

PubMed

Aboul-Enein, Fahmy; Krssák, Martin; Höftberger, Romana; Prayer, Daniela; Kristoferitsch, Wolfgang

2010-07-20

Reduced N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) levels in magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) may visualize axonal damage even in the normal appearing white matter (NAWM). Demyelination and axonal degeneration are a hallmark in multiple sclerosis (MS). To define the extent of axonal degeneration in the NAWM in the remote from focal lesions in patients with relapsing-remitting (RRMS) and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). 37 patients with clinical definite MS (27 with RRMS, 10 with SPMS) and 8 controls were included. We used 2D (1)H-MR-chemical shift imaging (TR = 1500ms, TE = 135ms, nominal resolution 1ccm) operating at 3Tesla to assess the metabolic pattern in the fronto-parietal NAWM. Ratios of NAA to creatine (Cr) and choline (Cho) and absolute concentrations of the metabolites in the NAWM were measured in each voxel matching exclusively white matter on the anatomical T2 weighted MR images. No significant difference of absolute concentrations for NAA, Cr and Cho or metabolite ratios were found between RRMS and controls. In SPMS, the NAA/Cr ratio and absolute concentrations for NAA and Cr were significantly reduced compared to RRMS and to controls. In our study SPMS patients, but not RRMS patients were characterized by low NAA levels. Reduced NAA-levels in the NAWM of patients with MS is a feature of progression.

Evidence that the tri-cellular metabolism of N-acetylaspartate functions as the brain's "operating system": how NAA metabolism supports meaningful intercellular frequency-encoded communications.

PubMed

Baslow, Morris H

2010-11-01

N-acetylaspartate (NAA), an acetylated derivative of L-aspartate (Asp), and N-acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG), a derivative of NAA and L-glutamate (Glu), are synthesized by neurons in brain. However, neurons cannot catabolize either of these substances, and so their metabolism requires the participation of two other cell types. Neurons release both NAA and NAAG to extra-cellular fluid (ECF) upon stimulation, where astrocytes, the target cells for NAAG, hydrolyze it releasing NAA back into ECF, and oligodendrocytes, the target cells for NAA, hydrolyze it releasing Asp to ECF for recycling to neurons. This sequence is unique as it is the only known amino acid metabolic cycle in brain that requires three cell types for its completion. The results of this cycling are two-fold. First, neuronal metabolic water is transported to ECF for its removal from brain. Second, the rate of neuronal activity is coupled with focal hyperemia, providing stimulated neurons with the energy required for transmission of meaningful frequency-encoded messages. In this paper, it is proposed that the tri-cellular metabolism of NAA functions as the "operating system" of the brain, and is essential for normal cognitive and motor activities. Evidence in support of this hypothesis is provided by the outcomes of two human inborn errors in NAA metabolism.

Transcriptomics of shading-induced and NAA-induced abscission in apple (Malus domestica) reveals a shared pathway involving reduced photosynthesis, alterations in carbohydrate transport and signaling and hormone crosstalk

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), a synthetic auxin analogue, is widely used as an effective thinner in apple orchards. When applied shortly after fruit set, some fruit abscise leading to improved fruit size and quality. However, the thinning results of NAA are inconsistent and difficult to predict, sometimes leading to excess fruit drop or insufficient thinning which are costly to growers. This unpredictability reflects our incomplete understanding of the mode of action of NAA in promoting fruit abscission. Results Here we compared NAA-induced fruit drop with that caused by shading via gene expression profiling performed on the fruit abscission zone (FAZ), sampled 1, 3, and 5 d after treatment. More than 700 genes with significant changes in transcript abundance were identified from NAA-treated FAZ. Combining results from both treatments, we found that genes associated with photosynthesis, cell cycle and membrane/cellular trafficking were downregulated. On the other hand, there was up-regulation of genes related to ABA, ethylene biosynthesis and signaling, cell wall degradation and programmed cell death. While the differentially expressed gene sets for NAA and shading treatments shared only 25% identity, NAA and shading showed substantial similarity with respect to the classes of genes identified. Specifically, photosynthesis, carbon utilization, ABA and ethylene pathways were affected in both NAA- and shading-induced young fruit abscission. Moreover, we found that NAA, similar to shading, directly interfered with leaf photosynthesis by repressing photosystem II (PSII) efficiency within 10 minutes of treatment, suggesting that NAA and shading induced some of the same early responses due to reduced photosynthesis, which concurred with changes in hormone signaling pathways and triggered fruit abscission. Conclusions This study provides an extensive transcriptome study and a good platform for further investigation of possible regulatory genes involved in the induction of young fruit abscission in apple, which will enable us to better understand the mechanism of fruit thinning and facilitate the selection of potential chemicals for the thinning programs in apple. PMID:22003957

Transcriptomics of shading-induced and NAA-induced abscission in apple (Malus domestica) reveals a shared pathway involving reduced photosynthesis, alterations in carbohydrate transport and signaling and hormone crosstalk.

PubMed

Zhu, Hong; Dardick, Chris D; Beers, Eric P; Callanhan, Ann M; Xia, Rui; Yuan, Rongcai

2011-10-17

Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), a synthetic auxin analogue, is widely used as an effective thinner in apple orchards. When applied shortly after fruit set, some fruit abscise leading to improved fruit size and quality. However, the thinning results of NAA are inconsistent and difficult to predict, sometimes leading to excess fruit drop or insufficient thinning which are costly to growers. This unpredictability reflects our incomplete understanding of the mode of action of NAA in promoting fruit abscission. Here we compared NAA-induced fruit drop with that caused by shading via gene expression profiling performed on the fruit abscission zone (FAZ), sampled 1, 3, and 5 d after treatment. More than 700 genes with significant changes in transcript abundance were identified from NAA-treated FAZ. Combining results from both treatments, we found that genes associated with photosynthesis, cell cycle and membrane/cellular trafficking were downregulated. On the other hand, there was up-regulation of genes related to ABA, ethylene biosynthesis and signaling, cell wall degradation and programmed cell death. While the differentially expressed gene sets for NAA and shading treatments shared only 25% identity, NAA and shading showed substantial similarity with respect to the classes of genes identified. Specifically, photosynthesis, carbon utilization, ABA and ethylene pathways were affected in both NAA- and shading-induced young fruit abscission. Moreover, we found that NAA, similar to shading, directly interfered with leaf photosynthesis by repressing photosystem II (PSII) efficiency within 10 minutes of treatment, suggesting that NAA and shading induced some of the same early responses due to reduced photosynthesis, which concurred with changes in hormone signaling pathways and triggered fruit abscission. This study provides an extensive transcriptome study and a good platform for further investigation of possible regulatory genes involved in the induction of young fruit abscission in apple, which will enable us to better understand the mechanism of fruit thinning and facilitate the selection of potential chemicals for the thinning programs in apple.

Remediation of uranium-contaminated groundwater by sorption onto hydoxyapatite derived from catfish bones

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Hydroxyapatite was prepared from catfish bones, called catfish hydroxyapatite (CFHA), by mechanical and chemical treatment methods and was characterized by x-ray diffraction (X-RD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques to confirm the presence of hydroxyapatite. The ability of CFHA to rem...

Magnetically recyclable magnetite-ceria (Nanocat-Fe-Ce) nanocatalysts - applications in multicomponent reactions under benign conditions

EPA Science Inventory

A novel magnetite nanoparticle-supported ceria catalyst (Nanocat-Fe-Ce) has been successfully prepared by simple impregnation method and was well characterized by XRD, SIMS, FEG-SEM-EDS, and TEM. The exact nature of Nanocat-Fe-Ce was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy ...

Novel Claycunbic to Eliminate Micropollutants and Vibrio fischeri from Water

EPA Science Inventory

Montmorillonite clay (K10) was used as a precursor for the synthesis of a catalytic adsorbent, Claycunbic (Bi/Cu-pillared K10), which was characterized by SEM (EDS), TEM, XRD, BET, TGA and XPS analysis. The catalytic adsorption of cationic dye methylene blue (MB), anionic dye met...

Liesegang banding and multiple precipitate formation in cobalt phosphate systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karam, Tony; El-Rassy, Houssam; Zaknoun, Farah; Moussa, Zeinab; Sultan, Rabih

2012-02-01

We study a cobalt phosphate Liesegang pattern from cobalt(II) and phosphate ions in a 1D tube. The system yields a complex, multi-component pattern. Characterization of the different precipitates by FTIR, SEM and XRD reveals that they are cobalt phosphate polymorphs with different degrees of hydration.

Reduced hippocampal N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) as a biomarker for overweight.

PubMed

Coplan, Jeremy D; Fathy, Hassan M; Abdallah, Chadi G; Ragab, Sherif A; Kral, John G; Mao, Xiangling; Shungu, Dikoma C; Mathew, Sanjay J

2014-01-01

We previously demonstrated an inverse relationship between both dentate gyrus neurogenesis - a form of neuroplasticity - and expression of the antiapoptotic gene marker, BCL-2 and adult macaque body weight. We therefore explored whether a similar inverse correlation existed in humans between body mass index (BMI) and hippocampal N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), a marker of neuronal integrity and putatively, neuroplasticity. We also studied the relationship of a potentially neurotoxic process, worry, to hippocampal NAA in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and control subjects (CS). We combined two previously studied cohorts of GAD and control subjects. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging ((1)H MRSI) in medication-free patients with GAD (n = 29) and a matched healthy control group (n = 22), we determined hippocampal concentrations of (1) NAA (2) choline containing compounds (CHO), and (3) Creatine + phosphocreatine (CR). Data were combined from 1.5 T and 3 T scans by converting values from each cohort to z-scores. Overweight and GAD diagnosis were used as categorical variables while the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) and Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) were used as dependent variables. Overweight subjects (BMI ≥ 25) exhibited lower NAA levels in the hippocampus than normal-weight subjects (BMI < 25) (partial Eta-squared = 0.14) controlling for age, sex and psychiatric diagnosis, and the effect was significant for the right hippocampus in both GAD patients and control subjects. An inverse linear correlation was noted in all subjects between right hippocampal NAA and BMI. High scores on the PSWQ predicted low hippocampal NAA and CR. Both BMI and worry were independent inverse predictors of hippocampal NAA. Overweight was associated with reduced NAA concentrations in the hippocampus with a strong effect size. Future mechanistic studies are warranted.

N-acetylaspartate (NAA) levels in selected areas of the brain in patients with chronic schizophrenia treated with typical and atypical neuroleptics: a proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) study.

PubMed

Szulc, Agata; Galińska, Beata; Tarasów, Eugeniusz; Kubas, Bozena; Dzienis, Wojciech; Konarzewska, Beata; Poplawska, Regina; Tomczak, Anna A; Czernikiewicz, Andrzej; Walecki, Jerzy

2007-05-01

NAA, marker of neurons integrity and viability, is one of the most important brain metabolites visible in 1H MRS. In most studies of schizophrenia, the decrease of NAA level was observed in the temporal, frontal lobes and in the thalamus. This finding was observed more often among chronic patients, what suggests the influence of disease duration or the effect of neuroleptic treatment. The aim of the present study was the comparison of NAA levels in brain of schizophrenic patients taking typical and atypical neuroleptics. We analyzed the NAA levels in selected brain areas in 58 schizophrenic patients and 21 healthy controls. 10 patients were treated with typical neuroleptics, 10 patients with clozapine, 17 received olanzapine and 21 - risperidone. 1H MRS was performed on a 1,5 MR scanner with PRESS sequence. Voxels of 2x2x2 cm were localized in the left frontal, left temporal lobe and left thalamus. There were no differences in NAA levels between patients on typical and atypical medications analyzed together and separately (olanzapine, clozapine and risperidone groups). We also did not find any differences between patients taking selected atypical neuroleptics and controls. The NAA level in the thalamus in the group of patients receiving typical antipsychotics was the lowest among all groups and differed significantly from healthy controls. The results of our study suggest that atypical neuroleptics may have favorable effect on NAA concentration in brain of schizophrenic patients. Decrease in NAA level in patients taking typical medication may be caused by the progression of the disease or by the direct action of these drugs.

Neurochemical effects of quetiapine in patients with bipolar mania: a proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy study.

PubMed

Adler, Caleb M; DelBello, Melissa P; Weber, Wade A; Jarvis, Kelly B; Welge, Jeffrey; Chu, Wen-Jang; Rummelhoff, Emily; Kim, Mi-Jung; Lee, Jing-Huei; Strakowski, Stephen M

2013-08-01

Although the neurophysiology underlying pharmacotherapy for bipolar disorder remains poorly understood, recent studies suggest that therapeutic mechanisms may be reflected in changes in concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), a putative measure of neuronal integrity and metabolism. In this study, we used magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to examine prefrontal NAA in patients receiving quetiapine for bipolar mania. On the basis of previous findings, we hypothesized that remission would be associated with increased NAA concentrations in the prefrontal cortex. Thirty-one manic bipolar patients and 13 healthy subjects were recruited to participate in this prospective study. All subjects participated in MRS at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. Bipolar subjects received open-label quetiapine monotherapy (mean dose [SD], 584 [191] mg). Fourteen patients remitted (Young Mania Rating Scale ≤ 12) ("remitters"), 11 patients did not ("nonremitters"), and 6 patients were lost to follow-up. Bipolar and healthy subjects did not significantly differ in baseline NAA or degree of change during the 8 weeks. Remitters showed greater mean baseline NAA concentrations in the right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex compared with nonremitters (P < 0.05). In the anterior cingulate, remitters showed near significantly decreased baseline NAA concentrations at baseline (P < 0.06), and significant differences in NAA change during the 8 weeks of treatment (P < 0.03). Manic patients who remitted with quetiapine treatment in the course of this study exhibited distinct patterns of baseline prefrontal NAA concentration, coupled with decreased NAA in the anterior cingulate with treatment; the latter possibly reflecting disparate effects of quetiapine on neuronal metabolism. These data support suggestions that therapeutic effects of quetiapine involve metabolic effects on specific prefrontal regions.

Hypothalamic damage in multiple sclerosis correlates with disease activity, disability, depression, and fatigue.

PubMed

Kantorová, E; Poláček, H; Bittšanský, M; Baranovičová, E; Hnilicová, P; Čierny, D; Sivák, Š; Nosáľ, V; Zeleňák, K; Kurča, E

2017-04-01

Disturbances in the hypothalamo-pituitary axis are supposed to modulate activity of multiple sclerosis (MS). We hypothesised that the extent of HYP damage may determine severity of MS and may be associated with the disease evolution. We suggested fatigue and depression may depend on the degree of damage of the area. 33 MS patients with relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive disease, and 24 age and sex-related healthy individuals (CON) underwent 1H-MR spectroscopy (1H-MRS) of the hypothalamus. Concentrations of glutamate + glutamin (Glx), cholin (Cho), myoinositol (mIns), N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) expressed as ratio with creatine (Cr) and NAA were correlated with markers of disease activity (RIO score), Multiple Sclerosis Severity Scale (MSSS), Depressive-Severity Status Scale and Simple Numerical Fatigue Scale. Cho/Cr and NAA/Cr ratios were decreased and Glx/NAA ratio increased in MS patients vs CON. Glx/NAA, Glx/Cr, and mIns/NAA were significantly higher in active (RIO 1-2) vs non-active MS patients (RIO 0). Glx/NAA and Glx/Cr correlated with MSSS and fatigue score, and Glx/Cr with depressive score of MS patients. In CON, relationships between Glx/Cr and age, and Glx/NAA and fatigue score were inverse. Our study provides the first evidence about significant hypothalamic alterations correlating with clinical outcomes of MS, using 1H-MRS. The combination of increased Glu or mIns with reduced NAA in HYP reflects whole-brain activity of MS. In addition, excess of Glu is linked to severe disease course, depressive mood and fatigue in MS patients, suggesting superiority of Glu over other metabolites in determining MS burden.

Early Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathology Detected by Proton MR Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Murray, Melissa E.; Przybelski, Scott A.; Lesnick, Timothy G.; Liesinger, Amanda M.; Spychalla, Anthony; Zhang, Bing; Gunter, Jeffrey L.; Parisi, Joseph E.; Boeve, Bradley F.; Knopman, David S.; Petersen, Ronald C.; Jack, Clifford R.; Dickson, Dennis W.

2014-01-01

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) is sensitive to early neurodegenerative processes associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although 1H-MRS metabolite ratios of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr), NAA/myoinositol (mI), and mI/Cr measured in the posterior cingulate gyrus reveal evidence of disease progression in AD, pathologic underpinnings of the 1H-MRS metabolite changes in AD are unknown. Pathologically diagnosed human cases ranging from no likelihood to high likelihood AD (n = 41, 16 females and 25 males) who underwent antemortem 1H-MRS of the posterior cingulate gyrus at 3 tesla were included in this study. Immunohistochemical evaluation was performed on the posterior cingulate gyrus using antibodies to synaptic vesicles, hyperphosphorylated tau (pTau), neurofibrillary tangle conformational-epitope (cNFT), amyloid-β, astrocytes, and microglia. The slides were digitally analyzed using Aperio software, which allows neuropathologic quantification in the posterior cingulate gray matter. MRS and pathology associations were adjusted for time from scan to death. Significant associations across AD and control subjects were found between reduced synaptic immunoreactivity and both NAA/Cr and NAA/mI in the posterior cingulate gyrus. Higher pTau burden was associated with lower NAA/Cr and NAA/mI. Higher amyloid-β burden was associated with elevated mI/Cr and lower NAA/mI ratios, but not with NAA/Cr. 1H-MRS metabolite levels reveal early neurodegenerative changes associated with AD pathology. Our findings support the hypothesis that a decrease in NAA/Cr is associated with loss of synapses and early pTau pathology, but not with amyloid-β or later accumulation of cNFT pathology in the posterior cingulate gyrus. In addition, elevation of mI/Cr is associated with the occurrence of amyloid-β plaques in AD. PMID:25471565

Influence of nitrogen substrates and substrate C:N ratios on the nitrogen isotopic composition of amino acids from the marine bacterium Vibrio harveyi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maki, K.; Ohkouchi, N.; Chikaraishi, Y.; Fukuda, H.; Miyajima, T.; Nagata, T.

2014-09-01

Nitrogen (N) isotopic compositions of individual hydrolysable amino acids (δ15NAAs) in N pools have been increasingly used for trophic position assessment and evaluation of sources and transformation processes of organic matter in marine environments. However, there are limited data about variability in δ15NAAs patterns and how this variability influences marine bacteria, an important mediator of trophic transfer and organic matter transformation. We explored whether marine bacterial δ15NAAs profiles change depending on the type and C:N ratio of the substrate. The δ15NAAs profile of a marine bacterium, Vibrio harveyi, was examined using medium containing either glutamate, alanine or ammonium as the N source [substrate C:N ratios (range, 3 to 20) were adjusted with glucose]. The data were interpreted as a reflection of isotope fractionations associated with de novo synthesis of amino acids by bacteria. Principal component analysis (PCA) using the δ15N offset values normalized to glutamate + glutamine δ15N revealed that δ15NAAs profiles differed depending on the N source and C:N ratio of the substrate. High variability in the δ15N offset of alanine and valine largely explained this bacterial δ15NAAs profile variability. PCA was also conducted using bacterial and phytoplankton (cyanobacteria and eukaryotic algae) δ15NAAs profile data reported previously. The results revealed that bacterial δ15NAAs patterns were distinct from those of phytoplankton. Therefore, the δ15NAAs profile is a useful indicator of biochemical responses of bacteria to changes in substrate conditions, serving as a potentially useful method for identifying organic matter sources in marine environments.

In vitro studies on the putative function of N-acetylaspartate as an osmoregulator.

PubMed

Tranberg, Mattias; Abbas, Abdul-Karim; Sandberg, Mats

2007-07-01

Efflux and tissue content of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and amino acids were evaluated from cultured and acutely prepared hippocampal slices in response to changes in osmolarity. The osmoregulator taurine, but not NAA, was lost from both types of slices after moderate reductions in extracellular osmolarity (-60 mOsm) for 10-48 h. Hypoosmotic shock (-166 mOsm) for 5 min resulted in unselective efflux of several amino acids from acutely prepared slices. Notably, the efflux of taurine, but not NAA, was prominent also after the shock. Efflux of NAA was markedly enhanced by NMDA and high K(+), in particular after the stimulation period. The high K(+)-mediated efflux was decreased by high extracellular osmolarity and a NMDA-receptor antagonist. The results indicate that NAA efflux can be induced by a sudden non-physiological decrease in extracellular osmolarity but not by prolonged more moderate changes in osmolarity. The mechanisms behind the efflux of NAA by high K(+) are complex and may involve both swelling and activation of NMDA-receptors.

Effect of cytokinins and auxins on the growth of free-living conchocelis of Porphyra yezoensis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de-Lin, Duan; Xiu-Geng, Fei; Hong-Xu, Ren; Xiong, Chen; Ying, Zhu

1995-09-01

IAA 3-Indolylacetic acid, NAA a-Naphthylacetic acid and cytokinins in PESI culture medium were used in a study on the effects of plant hormones on the growth of free-living conchocelis of Porphyra yezoensis which showed that its growth in medium with cytokinins, IAA and NAA was more rapid than that in medium with non—phytohormones; that the optimal concentrations for promoting growth were 10 μg/L for IAA and ZA (Zeatin), and 0.1 μg/L for BA 6-Benzyl amino purine and KIN 6-Furfurylamino- purine. Mix use of NAA, IAA and cytokinins, NAA/ZA 1-1000/1 μg/L, NAA/BA 10/1-1000 μg/L, NAA/KIN 1/1-1000 μg/L promoted growth. IAA/ZA 0.1-1/0.1-1 μg/L; IAA/BA 0.1-1/0.1-10 μg/L IAA/KIN 1/0.1-1000 μg/L also promoted growth.

Oligodendrocytes Do Not Export NAA-Derived Aspartate In Vitro.

PubMed

I Amaral, Ana; Hadera, Mussie Ghezu; Kotter, Mark; Sonnewald, Ursula

2017-03-01

Oligodendroglial cells are known to de-acetylate the N-acetylaspartate (NAA) synthesized and released by neurons and use it for lipid synthesis. However, the role of NAA regarding their intermediary metabolism remains poorly understood. Two hypotheses were proposed regarding the fate of aspartate after being released by de-acetylation: (1) aspartate is metabolized in the mitochondria of oligodendrocyte lineage cells; (2) aspartate is released to the medium. We report here that aspartoacylase mRNA expression increases when primary rat oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) differentiate into mature cells in culture. Moreover, characterising metabolic functions of acetyl coenzyme A and aspartate from NAA catabolism in mature oligodendrocyte cultures after 5 days using isotope-labelled glucose after 5-days of differentiation we found evidence of extensive NAA metabolism. Incubation with [1,6- 13 C]glucose followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography analyses of cell extracts and media in the presence and absence of NAA established that the acetate moiety produced by hydrolysis of NAA does not enter mitochondrial metabolism in the form of acetyl coenzyme A. We also resolved the controversy concerning the possible release of aspartate to the medium: aspartate is not released to the medium by oligodendrocytes in amounts detectable by our methods. Therefore we propose that: aspartate released from NAA joins the cytosolic aspartate pool rapidly and takes part in the malate-aspartate shuttle, which transports reducing equivalents from glycolysis into the mitochondria for ATP production and enters the tricarboxylic acid cycle at a slow rate.

HERMES: Hadamard Encoding and Reconstruction of MEGA-Edited Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Chan, Kimberly L.; Puts, Nicolaas A. J.; Schär, Michael; Barker, Peter B.; Edden, Richard A. E.

2017-01-01

Purpose To investigate a novel Hadamard-encoded spectral editing scheme and evaluate its performance in simultaneously quantifying N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) and N-acetyl aspartyl glutamate (NAAG) at 3 Tesla. Methods Editing pulses applied according to a Hadamard encoding scheme allow the simultaneous acquisition of multiple metabolites. The method, called HERMES (Hadamard Encoding and Reconstruction of MEGA-Edited Spectroscopy), was optimized to detect NAA and NAAG simultaneously using density-matrix simulations and validated in phantoms at 3T. In vivo data were acquired in the centrum semiovale of 12 normal subjects. The NAA:NAAG concentration ratio was determined by modeling in vivo data using simulated basis functions. Simulations were also performed for potentially coedited molecules with signals within the detected NAA/NAAG region. Results Simulations and phantom experiments show excellent segregation of NAA and NAAG signals into the intended spectra, with minimal crosstalk. Multiplet patterns show good agreement between simulations and phantom and in vivo data. In vivo measurements show that the relative peak intensities of the NAA and NAAG spectra are consistent with a NAA:NAAG concentration ratio of 4.22:1 in good agreement with literature. Simulations indicate some coediting of aspartate and glutathione near the detected region (editing efficiency: 4.5% and 78.2%, respectively, for the NAAG reconstruction and 5.1% and 19.5%, respectively, for the NAA reconstruction). Conclusion The simultaneous and separable detection of two otherwise overlapping metabolites using HERMES is possible at 3T. PMID:27089868

NAA and NAAG variation in neuronal activation during visual stimulation.

PubMed

Castellano, G; Dias, C S B; Foerster, B; Li, L M; Covolan, R J M

2012-11-01

N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG) and its hydrolysis product N-acetyl-L-aspartate (NAA) are among the most important brain metabolites. NAA is a marker of neuron integrity and viability, while NAAG modulates glutamate release and may have a role in neuroprotection and synaptic plasticity. Investigating on a quantitative basis the role of these metabolites in brain metabolism in vivo by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a major challenge since the main signals of NAA and NAAG largely overlap. This is a preliminary study in which we evaluated NAA and NAAG changes during a visual stimulation experiment using functional MRS. The paradigm used consisted of a rest period (5 min and 20 s), followed by a stimulation period (10 min and 40 s) and another rest period (10 min and 40 s). MRS from 17 healthy subjects were acquired at 3T with TR/TE = 2000/288 ms. Spectra were averaged over subjects and quantified with LCModel. The main outcomes were that NAA concentration decreased by about 20% with the stimulus, while the concentration of NAAG concomitantly increased by about 200%. Such variations fall into models for the energy metabolism underlying neuronal activation that point to NAAG as being responsible for the hyperemic vascular response that causes the BOLD signal. They also agree with the fact that NAAG and NAA are present in the brain at a ratio of about 1:10, and with the fact that the only known metabolic pathway for NAAG synthesis is from NAA and glutamate.

Testing the applicability of the k0-NAA method at the MINT's TRIGA MARK II reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siong, Wee Boon; Dung, Ho Manh; Wood, Ab. Khalik; Salim, Nazaratul Ashifa Abd.; Elias, Md. Suhaimi

2006-08-01

The Analytical Chemistry Laboratory at MINT is using the NAA technique since 1980s and is the only laboratory in Malaysia equipped with a research reactor, namely the TRIGA MARK II. Throughout the years the development of NAA technique has been very encouraging and was made applicable to a wide range of samples. At present, the k0 method has become the preferred standardization method of NAA ( k0-NAA) due to its multi-elemental analysis capability without using standards. Additionally, the k0 method describes NAA in physically and mathematically understandable definitions and is very suitable for computer evaluation. Eventually, the k0-NAA method has been adopted by MINT in 2003, in collaboration with the Nuclear Research Institute (NRI), Vietnam. The reactor neutron parameters ( α and f) for the pneumatic transfer system and for the rotary rack at various locations, as well as the detector efficiencies were determined. After calibration of the reactor and the detectors, the implemented k0 method was validated by analyzing some certified reference materials (including IAEA Soil 7, NIST 1633a, NIST 1632c, NIST 1646a and IAEA 140/TM). The analysis results of the CRMs showed an average u score well below the threshold value of 2 with a precision of better than ±10% for most of the elemental concentrations obtained, validating herewith the introduction of the k0-NAA method at the MINT.

The Association of Lung Function, Bronchial Hyperresponsiveness, and Exhaled Nitric Oxide Differs Between Atopic and Non-atopic Asthma in Children

PubMed Central

Shim, Eunhee; Lee, Eun; Yang, Song-I; Jung, Young-Ho; Park, Geun Mi; Kim, Hyung Young; Seo, Ju-Hee

2015-01-01

Purpose Although many previous studies have attempted to identify differences between atopic asthma (AA) and non-atopic asthma (NAA), they have mainly focused on the difference of each variable of lung function and airway inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate relationships between lung function, bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR), and the exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) levels in children with AA and NAA. Methods One hundred and thirty six asthmatic children aged 5-15 years and 40 normal controls were recruited. Asthma cases were classified as AA (n=100) or NAA (n=36) from skin prick test results. Lung function, BHR to methacholine and adenosine-5'-monophosphate (AMP), eNO, blood eosinophils, and serum total IgE were measured. Results The AA and NAA cases shared common features including a reduced small airway function and increased BHR to methacholine. However, children with AA showed higher BHR to AMP and eNO levels than those with NAA. When the relationships among these variables in the AA and NAA cases were evaluated, the AA group showed significant relationships between lung function, BHR to AMP or methacholine and eNO levels. However, the children in the NAA group showed an association between small airway function and BHR to methacholine only. Conclusions These findings suggest that the pathogenesis of NAA may differ from that of AA during childhood in terms of the relationship between lung function, airway inflammation and BHR. PMID:25749776

Structural, optical and magnetic investigation of Gd implanted CeO2 nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaviyarasu, K.; Murmu, P. P.; Kennedy, J.; Thema, F. T.; Letsholathebe, Douglas; Kotsedi, L.; Maaza, M.

2017-10-01

Gadolinium implanted cerium oxide (Gd-CeO2) nanocomposites is an important candidate which have unique hexagonal structure and high K- dielectric constant. Gd-CeO2 nanoparticles were synthesized using hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that the peaks are consistent with pure phase cubic structure the XRD pattern also confirmed crystallinity and phase purity of the sample. Nanocrystals sizes were found to be up to 25 nm as revealed by XRD and SEM. It is suggested that Gd gives an affirmative effect on the ion influence behavior of Gd-CeO2. XRD patterns showed formation of new phases and SEM micrographs revealed hexagonal structure. Photoluminescence measurement (PL) reveals the systematic shift of the emission band towards lower wavelength thereby ascertaining the quantum confinement effect (QCE). The PL spectrum has wider broad peak ranging from 390 nm to 770 nm and a sharp one centered on at 451.30 nm which is in tune with Gd ions. In the Raman spectra showed intense band observed between 460 cm-1 and 470 cm-1 which is attributed to oxygen ions into CeO2. Room temperature ferromagnetism was observed in un-doped and Gd implanted and annealed CeO2 nanocrystals. In the recent studies, ceria based materials have been considered as one of the most promising electrolytes for reduced temperature SOFC (solid oxide fuel cell) system due to their high ionic conductivities allowing its use in stainless steel supported fuel cells. CeO2 having an optical bandgap 3.3 eV and n-type carrier density which make it a promising candidate for various technological application such as buffer layer on silicon on insulator devices.

76 FR 73486 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-29

... (NAA) the application of a similar regulation. The aim of this [EASA] regulation is to require * * * a... Authorities] recommended to the National Aviation Authorities (NAA) the application of a similar regulation... Aviation Authorities (NAA) the application of a similar regulation. The aim of this [EASA] regulation is to...

76 FR 39035 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A310 Series Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-05

... application of a similar regulation to the National Aviation Authorities (NAA). Under this regulation, all... National Aviation Authorities (NAA). Under this regulation, all holders of type certificates for passenger... Authorities] JAA recommended the application of a similar regulation to the National Aviation Authorities (NAA...

Role of Natural Autoantibodies and Natural IgM Anti-Leucocyte Autoantibodies in Health and Disease

PubMed Central

Lobo, Peter Isaac

2016-01-01

We review how polyreactive natural IgM autoantibodies (IgM-NAA) protect the host from invading micro-organisms and host neo-antigens that are constantly being produced by oxidation mechanisms and cell apoptosis. Second, we discuss how IgM-NAA and IgM anti-leukocyte antibodies (IgM-ALA) inhibits autoimmune inflammation by anti-idiotypic mechanisms, enhancing removal of apoptotic cells, masking neo-antigens, and regulating the function of dendritic cells (DC) and effector cells. Third, we review how natural IgM prevents autoimmune disorders arising from pathogenic IgG autoantibodies, triggered by genetic mechanisms (e.g., SLE) or micro-organisms, as well as by autoreactive B and T cells that have escaped tolerance mechanisms. Studies in IgM knockout mice have clearly demonstrated that regulatory B and T cells require IgM to effectively regulate inflammation mediated by innate, adaptive, and autoimmune mechanisms. It is, therefore, not surprising why the host positively selects such autoreactive B1 cells that generate IgM-NAA, which are also evolutionarily conserved. Fourth, we show that IgM-ALA levels and their repertoire can vary in normal humans and disease states and this variation may partly explain the observed differences in the inflammatory response after infection, ischemic injury, or after a transplant. We also show how protective IgM-NAA can be rendered pathogenic under non-physiological conditions. We also review IgG-NAA that are more abundant than IgM-NAA in plasma. However, we need to understand if the (Fab)2 region of IgG-NAA has physiological relevance in non-disease states, as in plasma, their functional activity is blocked by IgM-NAA having anti-idiotypic activity. Some IgG-NAA are produced by B2 cells that have escaped tolerance mechanisms and we show how such pathogenic IgG-NAA are regulated to prevent autoimmune disease. The Fc region of IgG-NAA can influence inflammation and B cell function in vivo by binding to activating and inhibitory FcγR. IgM-NAA has therapeutic potential. Polyclonal IgM infusions can be used to abrogate on-going inflammation. Additionally, inflammation arising after ischemic kidney injury, e.g., during high-risk elective cardiac surgery or after allograft transplantation, can be prevented by pre-emptively infusing polyclonal IgM or DC pretreated ex vivo with IgM or by increasing in vivo IgM with a vaccine approach. Cell therapy is appealing as less IgM will be required. PMID:27375614

Nanoporous Anodic Alumina: A Versatile Platform for Optical Biosensors

PubMed Central

Santos, Abel; Kumeria, Tushar; Losic, Dusan

2014-01-01

Nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) has become one of the most promising nanomaterials in optical biosensing as a result of its unique physical and chemical properties. Many studies have demonstrated the outstanding capabilities of NAA for developing optical biosensors in combination with different optical techniques. These results reveal that NAA is a promising alternative to other widely explored nanoporous platforms, such as porous silicon. This review is aimed at reporting on the recent advances and current stage of development of NAA-based optical biosensing devices. The different optical detection techniques, principles and concepts are described in detail along with relevant examples of optical biosensing devices using NAA sensing platforms. Furthermore, we summarise the performance of these devices and provide a future perspective on this promising research field. PMID:28788678

On the nature of the NAA diffusion attenuated MR signal in the central nervous system.

PubMed

Kroenke, Christopher D; Ackerman, Joseph J H; Yablonskiy, Dmitriy A

2004-11-01

In the brain, on a macroscopic scale, diffusion of the intraneuronal constituent N-acetyl-L-aspartate (NAA) appears to be isotropic. In contrast, on a microscopic scale, NAA diffusion is likely highly anisotropic, with displacements perpendicular to neuronal fibers being markedly hindered, and parallel displacements less so. In this report we first substantiate that local anisotropy influences NAA diffusion in vivo by observing differing diffusivities parallel and perpendicular to human corpus callosum axonal fibers. We then extend our measurements to large voxels within rat brains. As expected, the macroscopic apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of NAA is practically isotropic due to averaging of the numerous and diverse fiber orientations. We demonstrate that the substantially non-monoexponential diffusion-mediated MR signal decay vs. b value can be quantitatively explained by a theoretical model of NAA confined to an ensemble of differently oriented neuronal fibers. On the microscopic scale, NAA diffusion is found to be strongly anisotropic, with displacements occurring almost exclusively parallel to the local fiber axis. This parallel diffusivity, ADCparallel, is 0.36 +/- 0.01 microm2/ms, and ADCperpendicular is essentially zero. From ADCparallel the apparent viscosity of the neuron cytoplasm is estimated to be twice as large as that of a temperature-matched dilute aqueous solution. (c) 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

MRS of pilocytic astrocytoma: The peak at 2 ppm may not be NAA.

PubMed

Tamrazi, Benita; Nelson, Marvin D; Blüml, Stefan

2017-08-01

To determine whether the chemical shift of residual N-acetylaspartate (NAA) signal in pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) is consistent with the position of the NAA peak in controls. MR spectra from 27 pediatric World Health Organization (WHO) grade I pilocytic astrocytoma patients, fifteen patients with WHO grade II and high-grade (III-IV) astrocytomas, and 36 controls were analyzed. All spectra were acquired with a short echo time (35 ms), single voxel point-resolved spectroscopy sequence on clinical 3 tesla scanners. Fully automated LCModel software was used for processing, which included the fitting of peak positions for NAA and creatine (Cr). The chemical shift difference between the NAA and Cr peaks was significantly smaller (by 0.016 ± 0.005 parts per million, P < 1e-10) in PAs than in controls and was also smaller than what was observed in infiltrative astrocytomas. The chemical shift position of the residual NAA peak in PAs is not consistent with NAA. The signal likely originates from an N-acetyl group of one or more other chemicals such as N-acetylated sugars. Magn Reson Med 78:452-456, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Influence of Sodium Silicate/Sodium Alginate Additives on Discharge Performance of Mg-Air Battery Based on AZ61 Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jingling; Wang, Guangxin; Li, Yaqiong; Li, Wuhui; Ren, Fengzhang

2018-04-01

The application of Mg-air batteries is limited due to passivation and self-corrosion of anode alloys in electrolyte. In effort of solving this problem, the present work studied the influence of sodium silicate (SS)/sodium alginate (SA) on electrochemical behaviors of AZ61 alloy in NaCl solution by circle potentiodynamic polarization and galvanostatic discharge. The corrosion morphology and discharge product were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Results have shown that sodium silicate/sodium alginate inhibitors have an apparent effect on the self-corrosion of AZ61 alloy without affecting its discharge performance. The discharge capacity and the anodic utilization for Mg-air battery in a 0.6 M NaCl + 0.01 M SS +0.04 M SA solution are measured to be 1397 mAhg-1 and 48.2%, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and SEM investigation have confirmed that the sodium silicate/sodium alginate inhibitor can obviously decrease the self-corrosion of AZ61 alloy. SEM and XRD diffraction examinations suggest that the inhibiting mechanism is due to the formation of a compact and "cracked mud" layer. AZ61 alloy can be used as the anode for Mg-air battery in a solution of 0.6 M NaCl + 0.01 M SS +0.04 M SA.

Growth of ZnO films in sol-gel electrophoretic deposition by different solvents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hallajzadeh, Amir Mohammad; Abdizadeh, Hossein; Taheri, Mahtab; Golobostanfard, Mohammad Reza

2018-01-01

This article introduces a process to fabricate zinc oxide (ZnO) films through combining sol preparation and electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The experimental results have proved that the EPD process is a powerful route to fabricate ZnO films with desire thickness from stable colloidal suspension under a direct current (DC) electric field. In this method, ZnO sol is prepared by dissolving zinc acetate dehydrate (ZAD) as the main precursor and diethanolamine (DEA) as the additive in various solvents such as methanol (MeOH), ethanol (EtOH), and 2-proponal (2-PrOH). The deposition was performed under a constant voltage of 30 V for 2 min. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) were used to characterize ZnO films. XRD pattern of the ZnO film prepared by MeOH shows the highest degree of preferential orientation and this is mainly attributed to the higher dielectric constant of the MeOH which results in higher current density in electrophoretic deposit ion. The SEM cross section images also show that the thickness of the ZnO film enhances by decreasing the solvent chain length. According to SEM results, as the viscosity of the medium increased, more compact layers are formed, which can be attributed to the lower deposition rates in heavier alcohols.

Influence of Sodium Silicate/Sodium Alginate Additives on Discharge Performance of Mg-Air Battery Based on AZ61 Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jingling; Wang, Guangxin; Li, Yaqiong; Li, Wuhui; Ren, Fengzhang

2018-05-01

The application of Mg-air batteries is limited due to passivation and self-corrosion of anode alloys in electrolyte. In effort of solving this problem, the present work studied the influence of sodium silicate (SS)/sodium alginate (SA) on electrochemical behaviors of AZ61 alloy in NaCl solution by circle potentiodynamic polarization and galvanostatic discharge. The corrosion morphology and discharge product were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Results have shown that sodium silicate/sodium alginate inhibitors have an apparent effect on the self-corrosion of AZ61 alloy without affecting its discharge performance. The discharge capacity and the anodic utilization for Mg-air battery in a 0.6 M NaCl + 0.01 M SS +0.04 M SA solution are measured to be 1397 mAhg-1 and 48.2%, respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and SEM investigation have confirmed that the sodium silicate/sodium alginate inhibitor can obviously decrease the self-corrosion of AZ61 alloy. SEM and XRD diffraction examinations suggest that the inhibiting mechanism is due to the formation of a compact and "cracked mud" layer. AZ61 alloy can be used as the anode for Mg-air battery in a solution of 0.6 M NaCl + 0.01 M SS +0.04 M SA.

Morphology Tuning of Strontium Tungstate Nanoparticles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Joseph, S.; George, T.; George, K. C.

2007-08-22

Strontium tungstate nanocrystals in two different morphologies are successfully synthesized by controlled precipitation in aqueous and in poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) medium. Structural characterizations are carried out by XRD and SEM. The average particle size calculated for the SrWO4 prepared in the two different solvents ranges 20-24 nm. The SEM pictures show that the surface morphologies of the SrWO4 nanoparticles in aqueous medium resemble mushroom and the SrWO4 nanoparticles in PVA medium resemble cauliflower. Investigations on the room temperature luminescent properties of the strontium tungstate nanoparticles prepared in aqueous and PVA medium shows strong emissions around 425 nm.

Differences between Spinocerebellar Ataxias and Multiple System Atrophy-Cerebellar Type on Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Chen, Hung-Chieh; Soong, Bing-Wen; Guo, Wan Yuo; Wu, Hsiu-Mei; Chang, Cheng-Yen

2012-01-01

Purpose A broad spectrum of diseases can manifest cerebellar ataxia. In this study, we investigated whether proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) may help differentiate spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) from multiple systemic atrophy- cerebellar type (MSA-C). Material and Methods This prospective study recruited 156 patients with ataxia, including spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) types 1, 2, 3, 6 and 17 (N = 94) and MSA-C (N = 62), and 44 healthy controls. Single voxel proton MRS in the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis were measured. The differences were evaluated using nonparametric statistic tests. Results When compared with healthy controls, the cerebellar and vermis NAA/Cr and NAA/Cho were lower in all patients(p<0.002). The Cho/Cr was lower in SCA2 and MSA-C (p<0.0005). The NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr were lower in MSA-C or SCA2 comparing with SCA3 or SCA6. The MRS features of SCA1 were in between (p<0.018). The cerebellar NAA/Cho was lower in SCA2 than SCA1, SCA3 or SCA6 (p<0.04). The cerebellar NAA/Cho in MSA-C was lower than SCA3 (p<0.0005). In the early stages of diseases (SARA score<10), significant lower NAA/Cr and NAA/Cho in SCA2, SCA3, SCA6 or MSA-C were observed comparing with healthy controls (p<0.017). The Cho/Cr was lower in MSA-C or SCA2 (p<0.0005). Patients with MSA-C and SCA2 had lower NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr than SCA3 or SCA6 (p<0.016). Conclusion By using MRS, significantly lower NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and NAA/Cho in the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis were found in patients with ataxia (SCAs and MSA-C). Rapid neuronal degeneration and impairment of membrane activities were observed more often in patients with MSA-C than those with SCA, even in early stages. MRS could also help distinguish between SCA2 and other subtypes of SCAs. MRS ratios may be of use as biomarkers in early stages of disease and should be further assessed in a longitudinal study. PMID:23118909

Chronic treatment with lithium, but not sodium valproate, increases cortical N-acetyl-aspartate concentrations in euthymic bipolar patients.

PubMed

Silverstone, Peter H; Wu, Ren H; O'Donnell, Tina; Ulrich, Michele; Asghar, Sheila J; Hanstock, Christopher C

2003-03-01

Previous studies have found that treatment with lithium over a 4-week period may increase the concentration of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) in both bipolar patients and controls. In view of other findings indicating that NAA concentrations may be a good marker for neuronal viability and/or functioning, it has been further suggested that some of the long term benefits of lithium may therefore be due to actions to improve these neuronal properties. The aim of the present study was to utilize H magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( H MRS) to further examine the effects of both lithium and sodium valproate upon NAA concentrations in treated euthymic bipolar patients. In the first part of the study, healthy controls (n =18) were compared with euthymic bipolar patients (type I and type II) who were taking either lithium (n =14) or sodium valproate (n =11), and NAA : creatine ratios were determined. In the second part, we examined a separate group of euthymic bipolar disorder patients taking sodium valproate (n =9) and compared these to age- and sex-matched healthy controls (n =11), and we quantified the exact concentrations of NAA using an external solution. The results from the first part of the study showed that bipolar patients chronically treated with lithium had a significant increase in NAA concentrations but, in contrast, there were no significant increases in the sodium valproate-treated patients compared to controls. The second part of the study also found no effects of sodium valproate on NAA concentrations. These findings are the first to compare NAA concentrations in euthymic bipolar patients being treated with lithium or sodium valproate. The results support suggestions that longer-term administration of lithium to bipolar patients may increase NAA concentrations. However, the study suggests that chronic administration of sodium valproate to patients does not lead to similar changes in NAA concentrations. These findings suggest that sodium valproate and lithium may not share a common mechanism of action in bipolar disorder involving neurotrophic or neuroprotective effects.

X-ray diffraction, FTIR, UV-VIS and SEM studies on chromium (III) complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Ashutosh; Dwivedi, Jagrati; Shukla, Kritika

2015-06-01

Five Chromium (III) complexes have been prepared using Schiff base ligands which derived from benzoin and five different amino acids (H2N-R). Samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV-VIS and SEM method. X-Ray diffraction pattern analyzed that all chromium (III) complexes have hexagonal structure and crystalline, in nature, using Bruker D8 Advance instrument. Using VERTAX 70, FTIR spectroscopy reveals that Samples have (C=N), (C-O), (M-N) and (M-O) bonds in the range of 4000-400cm-1. UV-VIS spectroscopy give information that samples absorb the visible light which is in the range of 380-780nm. For this, Lambda 960 spectrometer used. SEM is designed for studying of the solid objects, using JEOL JSM 5600 instrument.

Studies on rock characteristics and timing of creep at selected landslide sites in Taiwan

Treesearch

Cheng-Yi Lee

2000-01-01

A study was conducted to investigate the causes of and rock characteristics at three landslide sites in the Tesngwen Reservoir watershed of southern Taiwan. Research methods used included the petrographic microscope, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), inductively coupled plasma spectroscope (ICP), constant head permeameter in triaxial...

Thermal, mechanical and morphological characterization of plasticized PLA-PHB blends

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A blend of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) (75% by weight) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) (25% by weight) with a polyester plasticizer (Lapol 108) at two different concentrations (5 and 7% by weight per 100 parts of the blends) were investigated by TGA, DSC, XRD, SEM, mechanical testing and biodegradatio...

Investigation of NAA and NAAG dynamics underlying visual stimulation using MEGA-PRESS in a functional MRS experiment

PubMed Central

Landim, Ricardo C.G.; Edden, Richard A.E.; Foerster, Bernd; Li, Li Min; Covolan, Roberto J.M.; Castellano, Gabriela

2017-01-01

N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) is responsible for the majority of the most prominent peak in 1H-MR spectra, and has been used as diagnostic marker for several pathologies. However, ~10% of this peak can be attributed to N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG), a neuropeptide whose release may be triggered by intense neuronal activation. Separate measurement of NAA and NAAG using MRS is difficult due to large superposition of their spectra. Specifically, in functional MRS (fMRS) experiments, most work has evaluated the sum NAA + NAAG, which does not appear to change during experiments. The aim of this work was to design and perform an fMRS experiment using visual stimulation and a spectral editing sequence, MEGA-PRESS, to further evaluate the individual dynamics of NAA and NAAG during brain activation. The functional paradigm used consisted of three blocks, starting with a rest (baseline) block of 320 s, followed by a stimulus block (640 s) and a rest block (640 s). Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study. On average, subjects followed a pattern of NAA decrease and NAAG increase during stimulation, with a tendency to return to basal levels at the end of the paradigm, with a peak NAA decrease of −(21 ± 19)% and a peak NAAG increase of (64 ± 62)% (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.05). These results may relate to: 1) the only known NAAG synthesis pathway is from NAA and glutamate; 2) a relationship between NAAG and the BOLD response. PMID:26656908

Investigation of NAA and NAAG dynamics underlying visual stimulation using MEGA-PRESS in a functional MRS experiment.

PubMed

Landim, Ricardo C G; Edden, Richard A E; Foerster, Bernd; Li, Li Min; Covolan, Roberto J M; Castellano, Gabriela

2016-04-01

N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) is responsible for the majority of the most prominent peak in (1)H-MR spectra, and has been used as diagnostic marker for several pathologies. However, ~10% of this peak can be attributed to N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAAG), a neuropeptide whose release may be triggered by intense neuronal activation. Separate measurement of NAA and NAAG using MRS is difficult due to large superposition of their spectra. Specifically, in functional MRS (fMRS) experiments, most work has evaluated the sum NAA+NAAG, which does not appear to change during experiments. The aim of this work was to design and perform an fMRS experiment using visual stimulation and a spectral editing sequence, MEGA-PRESS, to further evaluate the individual dynamics of NAA and NAAG during brain activation. The functional paradigm used consisted of three blocks, starting with a rest (baseline) block of 320 s, followed by a stimulus block (640 s) and a rest block (640 s). Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study. On average, subjects followed a pattern of NAA decrease and NAAG increase during stimulation, with a tendency to return to basal levels at the end of the paradigm, with a peak NAA decrease of -(21±19)% and a peak NAAG increase of (64±62)% (Wilcoxon test, p<0.05). These results may relate to: 1) the only known NAAG synthesis pathway is from NAA and glutamate; 2) a relationship between NAAG and the BOLD response. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Decreased NAA in gray matter is correlated with decreased availability of acetate in white matter in postmortem multiple sclerosis cortex.

PubMed

Li, S; Clements, R; Sulak, M; Gregory, R; Freeman, E; McDonough, J

2013-11-01

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which leads to progressive neurological disability. Our previous studies have demonstrated mitochondrial involvement in MS cortical pathology and others have documented decreased levels of the neuronal mitochondrial metabolite N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) in the MS brain. While NAA is synthesized in neurons, it is broken down in oligodendrocytes into aspartate and acetate. The resulting acetate is incorporated into myelin lipids, linking neuronal mitochondrial function to oligodendrocyte-mediated elaboration of myelin lipids in the CNS. In the present study we show that treating human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells with the electron transport chain inhibitor antimycin A decreased levels of NAA as measured by HPLC. To better understand the significance of the relationship between mitochondrial function and levels of NAA and its breakdown product acetate on MS pathology we then quantitated the levels of NAA and acetate in MS and control postmortem tissue blocks. Regardless of lesion status, we observed that levels of NAA were decreased 25 and 32 % in gray matter from parietal and motor cortex in MS, respectively, compared to controls. Acetate levels in adjacent white matter mirrored these decreases as evidenced by the 36 and 45 % reduction in acetate obtained from parietal and motor cortices. These data suggest a novel mechanism whereby mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced NAA levels in neurons may result in compromised myelination by oligodendrocytes due to decreased availability of acetate necessary for the synthesis of myelin lipids.

Decreased NAA in Gray Matter is Correlated with Decreased Availability of Acetate in White Matter in Postmortem Multiple Sclerosis Cortex

PubMed Central

Li, S.; Clements, R.; Sulak, M.; Gregory, R.; Freeman, E.; McDonough, J.

2013-01-01

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which leads to progressive neurological disability. Our previous studies have demonstrated mitochondrial involvement in MS cortical pathology and others have documented decreased levels of the neuronal mitochondrial metabolite N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) in the MS brain. While NAA is synthesized in neurons, it is broken down in oligodendrocytes into aspartate and acetate. The resulting acetate is incorporated into myelin lipids, linking neuronal mitochondrial function to oligodendrocyte-mediated elaboration of myelin lipids in the CNS. In the present study we show that treating human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells with the electron transport chain inhibitor antimycin A decreased levels of NAA as measured by HPLC. To better understand the significance of the relationship between mitochondrial function and levels of NAA and its breakdown product acetate on MS pathology we then quantitated the levels of NAA and acetate in MS and control postmortem tissue blocks. Regardless of lesion status, we observed that levels of NAA were decreased 25 and 32 % in gray matter from parietal and motor cortex in MS, respectively, compared to controls. Acetate levels in adjacent white matter mirrored these decreases as evidenced by the 36 and 45 % reduction in acetate obtained from parietal and motor cortices. These data suggest a novel mechanism whereby mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced NAA levels in neurons may result in compromised myelination by oligodendrocytes due to decreased availability of acetate necessary for the synthesis of myelin lipids. PMID:24078261

Novel Gas Sensor Based on ZnO Nanorod Circular Arrays for C2H5OH Gas Detection.

PubMed

Jianjiao, Zhang; Hongyan, Yue; Erjun, Guo; Shaolin, Zhang; Liping, Wang; Chunyu, Zhang; Xin, Gao; Jing, Chang; Hong, Zhang

2015-03-01

Novel side-heating gas sensor based on ZnO nanorod circular arrays was firstly fabricated by hydrothermal treatment assisted with a kind of simple dip-coating technique. The structure and morphologies of ZnO nanorods were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), respectively. XRD result indicates that the obtained ZnO nanorods have good crystalline with the hexagonal wurtzite structure. SEM result indicates that ZnO nanorod arrays are vertically growth on the surface of ceramic tube of side-heating sensor with controlled diameter and length, narrow size distribution and high orientation. The gas sensing properties of ZnO nanorod circular arrays are also evaluated. Comparative to the sensor based on scattered ZnO nanorods responding to 25 ppm H2, CO, C6H5CH3 and C2H5OH gas, respectively, the sensing values of high orientation gas sensor are generally increased by 5%. This novel sensor has good application promising for the fabrication of cost effective and high performance gas sensors.

Preparation and Ferroelectric Property of (100)-ORIENTED Ca0.4Sr0.6Bi4Ti4O15 Thin Film on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si Substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Suhua; Che, Quande; Zhang, Fengqing

The (100)-oriented Ca0.4Sr0.6Bi4Ti4O15(C0.4S0.6BTi) thin film was successfully prepared by a sol-gel method on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrate. The orientation and formation of thin films under different annealing schedules were studied using XRD and SEM. XRD analysis indicated that (100)-oriented C0.4S0.6BTi thin film with degree of orientation of I(200)/I(119) = 1.60 was prepared by preannealing the film at 400°C for 3 min followed by rapid thermal annealing at 800°C for 5 min. SEM analysis further indicated that the (100)-oriented C0.4S0.6BTi thin film with a thickness of about 800 nm was mainly composed of equiaxed grains. The remanent polarization and coercive field of the film were 16.1 μC/cm2 and 85 kV/cm, respectively.

Doping effect on SILAR synthesized crystalline nanostructured Cu-doped ZnO thin films grown on indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates and its characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhaygude, H. D.; Shinde, S. K.; Velhal, Ninad B.; Takale, M. V.; Fulari, V. J.

2016-08-01

In the present study, a novel chemical route is used to synthesize the undoped and Cu-doped ZnO thin films in aqueous solution by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method. The synthesized thin films are characterized by x-ray diffractometer (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDAX), contact angle goniometer and UV-Vis spectroscopic techniques. XRD study shows that the prepared films are polycrystalline in nature with hexagonal crystal structure. The change in morphology for different doping is observed in the studies of FE-SEM. EDAX spectrum shows that the thin films consist of zinc, copper and oxygen elements. Contact angle goniometer is used to measure the contact angle between a liquid and a solid interface and after detection, the nature of the films is initiated from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The optical band gap energy for direct allowed transition ranging between 1.60-2.91 eV is observed.

Facile Synthesis and Characterization of ZrO₂ Nanoparticles via Modified Co-Precipitation Method.

PubMed

Ramachandran, M; Subadevi, R; Liu, Wei-Ren; Sivakumar, M

2018-01-01

The crystalline Zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nano particles were synthesized using optimized content of Zirconium nitrate (Zr(NO3)2·3H2O) with varying KOH concentration (0.5, 1 and 1.5 M) by co-precipitation method. The thermal history of the precursor was carefully analyzed through Thermogravimetric (TG/DTA) measurement. The as prepared samples were characterized to ensure structural, functional, morphological, compositional, chemical composition and band gap by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Laser Raman, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), High resolution Transverse Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS), EDX, Photo luminescence spectroscopy (PL). The monoclinic structure with space group P21/c has been confirmed from XRD (JCPDS 89-9066). The Zr-O stretching vibration and Zr-O2-Zr bending vibrations were confirmed through FTIR analysis. The well dispersed particles with spherical morphology were confirmed through SEM and TEM analysis. The oxidation states of Zr, O and C were confirmed through XPS analysis. The oxygen vacancies and band gap of the particles were investigated through PL analysis.

Co-Precipitation Synthesis and Characterization of SrBi2Ta2O9 Ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afqir, Mohamed; Tachafine, Amina; Fasquelle, Didier; Elaatmani, Mohamed; Carru, Jean-Claude; Zegzouti, Abdelouahad; Daoud, Mohamed

2018-04-01

Strontium bismuth tantalate (SrBi2Ta2O9) was synthesized by a co-precipitation method. The sample was characterized by x-ray powder diffraction patterns (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results of the dielectric properties are reported at room temperature. No secondary phases were found while heating the powder at 850°C and the pure SrBi2Ta2O9 phase was formed, as revealed by XRD. The characteristic bands for SrBi2Ta2O9 were observed by FTIR at approximately 619 cm-1 and 810 cm-1. SEM micrographs for the sample displayed thin plate-like grains. The grain size was less than 1 μm and the crystallite size of about 24 nm. Dielectric response at room temperature shows that the SrBi2Ta2O9 ceramic has low loss values, and the flattening of the dielectric constant at higher frequencies. The observed Curie temperature is comparable with those reported in the literature.

Blood Cockle Shells Waste as Renewable Source for the Production of Biogenic CaCO3 and Its Characterisation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asmi, D.; Zulfia, A.

2017-11-01

The prowess to reuse and recycle of blood cockle shells for raw material in bio-ceramics applications is an attractive component of integrated waste management program. In this paper an attempt is made to introduce a simple process to manufacture biogenic CaCO3 powder from blood cockle shells waste. The biogenic CaCO3 powder was produced from rinsing of blood cockle shells waste using deionised water and oxalic acid for cleaning the dirt and stain on the shells, then drying and grinding followed by heat treatment at 500 and 800 °C for 5 h. The powder obtained was characterised by XRF, DTA/TG, SEM, FTIR, and XRD analysis. The amount of 97.1 % CaO was obtained from XRF result. The thermal decomposition of CaCO3 become CaO due to mass loss was observed in the TG curve. The SEM result shows the needle-like aragonite morphology of blood cockle shells powder transformed to cubic-like calcite after heat treated at 500 °C. These results were consistent with FTIR and XRD results.

Synthesis and characterization of FeSe1-xTex (x=0, 0.5, 1) superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zargar, Rayees A.; Hafiz, A. K.; Awana, V. P. S.

2015-08-01

In this study, FeTe1-xSex (x=0,0.5,1) samples were prepared by conventional solid state reaction method and investigated by powder XRD, SEM, Raman and resistivity measurement techniques to reveal the effect of tellurium (Te) substitution in FeSe matrix. Rietveld analysis was performed on room temperature recorded, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of pure FeSe, FeTe and FeSe0.5Te0.5 which shows that all the compounds are crystallized in a tetragonal structure. SEM images show the dense surface morphology. Raman spectra recorded in the range from 100 to 700 cm-1 at ambient temperature has been interpreted by P4/nmm space group of the lattice. The variation in intensity and shift in peak positions of some phonon modes has been discussed on the basis of variation in crystalline field effect by substituting Te in FeSe lattice. The resistivity versus temperature curves reveals that FeSe becomes superconductor at 7 K and FeSe0.5Te0.5 shows superconductivity below 14 K while FeTe is non-superconducting compound.

Tin recovery from tin slag using electrolysis method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jumari, Arif; Purwanto, Agus; Nur, Adrian; Budiman, Annata Wahyu; Lerian, Metty; Paramita, Fransisca A.

2018-02-01

The process in industry, including in mining industry, would surely give negative effect such as waste polluting to the environment. Some of waste could be potentially reutilized to be a commodity with the higher economic value. Tin slag is one of them. The aim of this research was to recover the tin contained in tin slag. Before coming to the electrolysis, tin slag must be treated by dissolution. The grinded tin slag was dissolved into HCl solution to form a slurry. During dissolution, the slurry was agitated and heated, and finally filtered. The filtrate obtained was then electrolyzed. During the process of electrolysis, solid material precipitated on the used cathode. The precipitated solid was then separated and dried. The solid was then analyzed using XRD, XRF and SEM. The XRD analysis showed that the longest time of dissolution and electrolysis the highest the purity obtained in the product. The SEM analysis showed that the longest time of electrolysis the smallest tin particle obtained. Optimum time achieved in this research was 2 hours for the recovering time and 3 hours for the electrolysis time, with 9% tin recovered.

Tribological and corrosion behaviour of electroless Ni-B coating possessing a blackberry like structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bülbül, Ferhat; Altun, Hikmet; Küçük, Özkan; Ezirmik, Vefa

2012-08-01

This study aims to evaluate the tribological and corrosion properties of the electroless Ni-B coating deposited on AISI 304 stainless steels. The microstructure of the coating was characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS). XRD analysis revealed that the prepared coating possessed an amorphous character. SEM-EDS investigation also indicated that a non-stoichiometric Ni-B coating was deposited with a columnar growth mechanism on the stainless steel substrate and the morphology of the growth surface was blackberry-like. The hardness and tribological properties were characterized by microhardness and a pin-on-disc wear test. The electroless Ni-B coated sample had a higher degree of hardness, a lower friction coefficient and a lower wear rate than the uncoated substrate. The electrochemical potentiodynamic polarization method was used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the coating. The electroless Ni-B coating offered cathodic protection on the substrate by acting as a sacrificial anode although it was electrochemically more reactive than the stainless steel substrate.

Thermal, structural, functional, optical and magnetic studies of pure and Ba doped CdO nanoparticles.

PubMed

Sivakumar, S; Venkatesan, A; Soundhirarajan, P; Khatiwada, Chandra Prasad

2015-12-05

In this research, a chemical precipitation method was used to synthesize undoped and doped cadmium oxide nanoparticles and studied by TG-DTA, XRD, FT-IR, SEM, with EDX and antibacterial activities, respectively. The melting points, thermal stability and the kinetic parameters like entropy (ΔS), enthalpy (ΔH), Gibb's energy (ΔG), activation energy (E), frequency factor (A) were evaluated from TG-DTA measurements. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) brought out the information about the synthesized products exist in spherical in shape with cubic structure. The functional groups and band area of the samples were established by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The direct and indirect band gap energy of pure and doped samples were determined by UV-Vis-DRS. The surface morphological, elemental compositions and particles sizes were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Finally, antibacterial activities indicated the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria are more active in transporter, dehydrogenize and periplasmic enzymatic activities of pure and doped samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structure and colossal dielectric permittivity of Ca2TiCrO6 ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan-Qing, Tan; Meng, Yan; Yong-Mei, Hao

2013-01-01

A colossal permittivity ceramic material, Ca2TiCrO6, was successfully synthesized by the conventional solid-state reaction, and was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). Rietveld refinement of XRD data indicated that the material crystallized in orthorhombic structure with space group pbnm. SEM displayed Ca2TiCrO6 ceramic grains packed uniformly with the size range 5-20 µm. XPS analyses indicated that elemental chromium and titanium of the material were in mixed valence. The corresponding dielectric property was tested in the frequency range 1 kHz-1 MHz and the temperature range 213-453 K, and the ceramics exhibited a relaxation-like dielectric behaviour. Importantly, the permittivity of Ca2TiCrO6 could reach 80 000 at 298 K (100 Hz) and was maintained at 40 000 up to 398 K at 1 MHz, which could be attributed to the ion disorder and mixed valence of Cr3+/Cr6+ and Ti3+/Ti4+.

Evaluation of antibacterial and Antibiofilm activity of Synthesized Zinc-Hydroxyapatite Biocomposites from Labeo rohita fish scale waste

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sathiskumar, Swamiappan; Vanaraj, Sekar; Sabarinathan, Devaraj; Preethi, Kathirvel

2018-02-01

Materials based on hydroxyapatite (HAp) Synthesized from bio-wastes have been regarded as useful, novel, eco-friendly medical applications that are targeted primarily for their antibacterial nature. In the present study, HAp was Synthesized from the fish scales of Labeo rohita using alkaline heat treatment and subsequently mixed with 1, 2 and 3 wt% of zinc (Zn) at 800 °C using calcination method to yield Zn-HAp composites. A detailed characterization of the generated composites was analysed by XRD, FT-IR, SEM, EDX and DLS methods. Further, antibacterial and biofilm inhibitory activity of the generated composites was determined using strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The confirmation of the presence of zinc, confirmed by EDAX spectra, XRD, FT-IR, SEM and DLS observations, established that HAp and Zn-HAp composites were without impurities, irregular in shape and were 848 nm sized particles. Although 1-3 wt% Zn-HAp composites showed antibacterial activity, the 3 wt% Zn-HAp composite was found suitable to kill the surrounding bacterial growth and showed potent inhibitory activity against biofilm formation.

Rapid extra-/intracellular biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles by the fungus Penicillium sp.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Liangwei; Xian, Liang; Feng, Jia-Xun

2011-03-01

In this work, the fungus Penicillium was used for rapid extra-/intracellular biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles. AuCl4 - ions reacted with the cell filtrate of Penicillium sp. resulting in extracellular biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles within 1 min. Intracellular biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles was obtained by incubating AuCl4 - solution with fungal biomass for 8 h. The gold nanoparticles were characterized by means of visual observation, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The extracellular nanoparticles exhibited maximum absorbance at 545 nm in UV-Vis spectroscopy. The XRD spectrum showed Bragg reflections corresponding to the gold nanocrystals. TEM exhibited the formed spherical gold nanoparticles in the size range from 30 to 50 nm with an average size of 45 nm. SEM and TEM revealed that the intracellular gold nanoparticles were well dispersed on the cell wall and within the cell, and they are mostly spherical in shape with an average diameter of 50 nm. The presence of gold was confirmed by EDX analysis.

2011 Final Report - Nano-Oxide Photocatalysis for Solar Energy Conversion

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Eckstein, James N.; Suslick, Kenneth S.

2011-10-19

We have very recently discovered a new hydrogen-producing photocatalyst is BiNbO4. BiNbO4 powders prepared by solid state reaction were tested for photocatalytic activity in methanol solutions under UV irradiation. When the material is tested without the presence of a Pt co-catalyst, photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution is superior to that of TiO2. It was also found that BiNbO4 photodegrades into metallic Bi and reduced Nb oxides after use; materials were characterized by SEM, XRD, and XPS. Adding Pt to the surface of the photocatalyst increases photocatalytic activity and importantly, helps to prevent photodegradation of the oxide material. With 1 wt.more » % Pt loading, photodegradation is essentially absent. BiNbO4 photodegrades into metallic Bi and reduced Nb oxides after use; materials were characterized by SEM, XRD, and XPS. Adding Pt to the surface of the photocatalyst increases photocatalytic activity and importantly, helps to prevent photodegradation of the oxide material. With 1 wt. % Pt loading, photodegradation is essentially absent.« less

Electroless Nickel Deposition for Front Side Metallization of Silicon Solar Cells

PubMed Central

Hsieh, Shu Huei; Hsieh, Jhong Min; Chen, Wen Jauh; Chuang, Chia Chih

2017-01-01

In this work, nickel thin films were deposited on texture silicon by electroless plated deposition. The electroless-deposited Ni layers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and sheet resistance measurement. The results indicate that the dominant phase was Ni2Si and NiSi in samples annealed at 300–800 °C. Sheet resistance values were found to correlate well with the surface morphology obtained by SEM and the results of XRD diffraction. The Cu/Ni contact system was used to fabricate solar cells by using two different activating baths. The open circuit voltage (Voc) of the Cu/Ni samples, before and after annealing, was measured under air mass (AM) 1.5 conditions to determine solar cell properties. The results show that open circuit voltage of a solar cell can be enhanced when the activation solution incorporated hydrofluoric acid (HF). This is mainly attributed to the native silicon oxide layer that can be decreased and/or removed by HF with the corresponding reduction of series resistance. PMID:28805724

Influence of Casting Section Thickness on Fatigue Strength of Austempered Ductile Iron

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olawale, J. O.; Ibitoye, S. A.

2017-10-01

The influence of casting section thickness on fatigue strength of austempered ductile iron was investigated in this study. ASTM A536 65-45-12 grade of ductile iron was produced, machined into round samples of 10, 15, 20 and 25 mm diameter, austenitized at a temperature of 820 °C, quenched into an austempering temperature (TA) of 300 and 375 °C and allowed to be isothermally transformed at these temperatures for a fixed period of 2 h. From the samples, fatigue test specimens were machined to conform to ASTM E-466. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) methods were used to characterize microstructural morphology and phase distribution of heat-treated samples. The fatigue strength decreases as the section thickness increases. The SEM image and XRD patterns show a matrix of acicular ferrite and carbon-stabilized austenite with ferrite coarsening and volume fraction of austenite reducing as the section thickness increases. The study concluded that the higher the value of carbon-stabilized austenite the higher the fatigue strength while it decreases as the ausferrite structure becomes coarse.

Microstructural and thermal properties of pure BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} and Sr doped barium ferrite (Ba{sub 0.9}Sr{sub 0.1}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19}) synthesized by auto combustion method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Taufeeq, Saba, E-mail: sabataufeeq23@gmail.com; Parveen, Azra; Agrawal, Shraddha

2016-05-23

Nanoparticles (NPs) of Pure BaFe{sub 12}O{sub 19} and Strontium doped Barium Ferrite (Ba{sub 0.9}Sr{sub 0.1}Fe{sub 12}O{sub 19}) have been successfully synthesized by Auto combustion method using citric acid as a chelating agent and calcined at 450°C for 3 hrs and 850°C for 4 hrs. Microstructural studies were carried by XRD and SEM techniques. Structural studies suggest that the crystal system remains hexagonal even with the doping of Strontium. The XRD analysis confirms the formation of the structures in the nanometer regime and the peaks are the evidence of the crystalline phase. The SEM images shows the morphology of surface ofmore » the samples. The thermal property studied by TGA shows the weight loss which is with varying the temperature and weight loss also varies with Sr doping. The TGA analysis exhibits the loss of weight at different temperatures.« less

Extraction of cellulose from pistachio shell and physical and mechanical characterisation of cellulose-based nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Movva, Mounika; Kommineni, Ravindra

2017-04-01

Cellulose is an important nanoentity that have been used for the preparation of composites. The present work focuses on the extraction of cellulose from pistachio shell and preparing a partially degradable nanocomposite with extracted cellulose. Physical and microstructural characteristics of nanocellulose extracted from pistachio shell powder (PSP) through various stages of chemical treatment are identified from scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Later, characterized nanocellulose is reinforced in a polyester matrix to fabricate nanocellulose-based composites according to the ASTM standard. The resulting nanocellulose composite performance is evaluated in the mechanical perspective through tensile and flexural loading. SEM, FTIR, and XRD showed that the process for extraction is efficient in obtaining 95% crystalline cellulose. Cellulose also showed good thermal stability with a peak thermal degradation temperature of 361 °C. Such cellulose when reinforced in a matrix material showed a noteworthy rise in tensile and flexural strengths of 43 MPa and 127 MPa, at a definite weight percent of 5%.

Internal iron biomineralization in Imperata cylindrica, a perennial grass: chemical composition, speciation and plant localization.

PubMed

Rodríguez, N; Menéndez, N; Tornero, J; Amils, R; de la Fuente, V

2005-03-01

* The analysis of metal distribution in Imperata cylindrica, a perennial grass isolated from the banks of Tinto River (Iberian Pyritic Belt), an extreme acidic environment with high content in metals, has shown a remarkable accumulation of iron. This property has been used to study iron speciation and its distribution among different tissues and structures of the plant. * Mossbauer (MS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to determine the iron species, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to locate iron biominerals among plant tissue structures, and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDAX), X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) and inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy (ICP-MS) to confirm their elemental composition. * The MS spectral analysis indicated that iron accumulated in this plant mainly as jarosite and ferritin. The presence of jarosite was confirmed by XRD and the distribution of both minerals in structures of different tissues was ascertained by SEM-EDAX analysis. * The convergent results obtained by complementary techniques suggest a complex iron management system in I. cylindrica, probably as a consequence of the environmental conditions of its habitat.

Influence of sodium fluoride on the synthesis of hydroxyapatite by gel method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanchana, P.; Sekar, C.

2010-03-01

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a good candidate for bone substitutes due to its chemical and structural similarity to bone mineral. Hydroxyapatite has been grown by the gel method using sodium fluoride (NaF) as additive. The growth was carried out at room temperature under the physiological pH of 7.4. The addition of NaF has significantly reduced growth rate and the yield was much less when compared to pure system. The samples of pure and fluoride doped HA were sintered at 600, 900 and 1200 °C in ambient atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were adopted to investigate the influence of NaF on the morphology, crystallinity, stability and phase purity of HA. EDAX and FTIR studies confirm that the fluoride is doped into the hydroxyapatite. Powder XRD and TGA results suggested that the incorporation of fluorine into the HA matrix improves the phase formation and crystallinity. SEM studies show that the microstructural morphology of HA changes from the fibers for pure to granular structure for the fluoride doped.

Preparation and characterization of non-crystalline granular starch and corresponding carboxymethyl starch.

PubMed

Zhang, Bao; Li, Xiaomin; Xie, Qiutao; Tao, Han; Wang, Wu; Chen, Han-Qing

2017-10-01

Native corn starch slurried in 50% ethanol solution was treated at 60°C, 70°C, 80°C, and 85°C, respectively. The resultant starches were investigated by polarized microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The Maltese cross of ethanol-heating treated starch gradually weaken with increasing temperature and completely disappeared at 85°C. SEM data indicated the treated granular exhibited a rougher surface with more pores and grooves than native starch granular, but the shape of the treated starch was still intact. DSC and XRD data confirmed ethanol-heating treated starch changed from crystalline to non-crystalline structure at 85°C. The highest degree of substitution (DS) and corresponding reaction efficiency (RE) for the carboxymethylation of native starch were 0.66 and 36.7%, respectively, while the corresponding DS and RE for non-crystalline granular starches increased by 0.29 and 16.1% at the same reaction condition, respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of Antibiotic-Loaded Alginate-Osa Starch Microbeads Produced by Ionotropic Pregelation

PubMed Central

Fontes, Gizele Cardoso; Calado, Verônica Maria Araújo; Rossi, Alexandre Malta; da Rocha-Leão, Maria Helena Miguez

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to characterize the penicillin-loaded microbeads composed of alginate and octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) starch prepared by ionotropic pregelation with calcium chloride and to evaluate their in vitro drug delivery profile. The beads were characterized by size, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential, swelling behavior, and degree of erosion. Also, the possible interaction between penicillin and biopolymers was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis. The SEM micrograph results indicated a homogeneous drug distribution in the matrix. Also, based on thermal analyses (TGA/DSC), interactions were detected between microbead components. Although FTIR spectra of penicillin-loaded microbeads did not reveal the formation of new chemical entities, they confirmed the chemical drug stability. XRD patterns showed that the incorporated crystalline structure of penicillin did not significantly alter the primarily amorphous polymeric network. In addition, the results confirmed a prolonged penicillin delivery system profile. These results imply that alginate and OSA starch beads can be used as a suitable controlled-release carrier for penicillin. PMID:23862146

Hydrothermal synthesis of bacterial cellulose-copper oxide nanocomposites and evaluation of their antimicrobial activity.

PubMed

Araújo, Inês M S; Silva, Robson R; Pacheco, Guilherme; Lustri, Wilton R; Tercjak, Agnieszka; Gutierrez, Junkal; Júnior, José R S; Azevedo, Francisco H C; Figuêredo, Girlene S; Vega, Maria L; Ribeiro, Sidney J L; Barud, Hernane S

2018-01-01

In this work, for the first time bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogel membranes were used for the fabrication of antimicrobial cellulosic nanocomposites by hydrothermal deposition of Cu derivative nanoparticles (i.e.Cu(0) and CuxOy species). BC-Cu nanocomposites were characterized by FTIR, SEM, AFM, XRD and TGA, to study the effect of hydrothermal processing time on the final physicochemical properties of final products. XRD result show that depending on heating time (3-48h), different CuxOy phases were achieved. SEM and AFM analyses unveil the presence of the Cu(0) and copper CuxOy nanoparticles over BC fibrils while the surface of 3D network became more compact and smother for longer heating times. Furthermore, the increase of heating time placed deleterious effect on the structure of BC network leading to decrease of BC crystallinity as well as of the on-set degradation temperature. Notwithstanding, BC-Cu nanocomposites showed excellent antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus and Salmonella bacteria suggesting potential applications as bactericidal films. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The critical mission of glycine as a surfactant in the improvement of structural, morphological and optoelectronic features of CdO films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aydin, Raşit

2018-05-01

The main aim of this study is to examine the effect of glycine as a surfactant agent on the physical properties of CdO films. For this purpose nanostructured CdO films with and without different glycine aggregations (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 M %) were synthesized on glass bases by SILAR technique. The morphological, structural and optical characteristics of these films have been investigated using MM, SEM, XRD and UV-visible spectroscopy respectively. The MM results showed homogeneous and smooth all films. The SEM graphs showed that by using different glycine concentrations as surfactant, the particle thickness decreased from 366.25 nm to 241.10 nm. XRD results showed that the all CdO films with glycine display a (111) and (200) preferential orientations similar to that of the CdO film without glycine. The direct band gap energy of these films is found to increase from 2.05 to 2.35 eV with increasing the glycine concentration in the bath solution.

Electrodeposition of Nanocrystalline Ni–Fe Alloy Coatings Based on 1-Butyl-3-Methylimidazolium-Hydrogen Sulfate Ionic Liquid.

PubMed

He, Xinkuai; Zhang, Chuang; Zhu, Qingyun; Lu, Haozi; Cai, Youxing; Wu, Luye

2017-02-01

The electrodeposition of nanocrystalline Ni–Fe alloy coatings and associated nucleation/growth processes are investigated on the glassy carbon (GC) electrode in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium-hydrogen sulfate ([BMIM]HSO4) ionic liquid (IL). Cyclic voltammetric data suggest that the co-electrodeposition of Ni–Fe alloys is quasi-reversible. Moreover, chronoamperometry results indicate that the electrodeposition proceeds via a simultaneous nucleation and three-dimensional growth mechanism. In addition, the effects of electrodeposition potential and electrolyte temperature on the coating thickness and Fe content are also studied. The microstructure and composition of the Ni–Fe alloy coatings on Cu substrate are investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). SEM observations show that these electrodeposits present a dense and compact structure, EDS analysis indicates that the coatings are composed of Ni and Fe, XRD pattern shows the coatings are crystalline with a face-centred cubic (fcc) structure. Tafel plots reveal that the Ni–Fe alloy prepared from [BMIM]HSO4 IL presents better corrosion resistance than that of pure Ni.

Bioleaching of two different genetic types of chalcopyrite and their comparative mineralogical assessment.

PubMed

Deng, Sha; Gu, Guohua; Ji, Jing; Xu, Baoke

2018-02-01

The bioleaching of two different genetic types of chalcopyrite by the moderate thermophile Sulfobacillus thermosulfidooxidans was investigated by leaching behaviors elucidation and their comparative mineralogical assessment. The leaching experiment showed that the skarn-type chalcopyrite (STC) revealed a much faster leaching rate with 33.34% copper extracted finally, while only 23.53% copper was bioleached for the porphyry-type chalcopyrite (PTC). The mineralogical properties were analyzed by XRD, SEM, XPS, and Fermi energy calculation. XRD indicated that the unit cell volume of STC was a little larger than that of PTC. SEM indicated that the surface of STC had more steps and ridges. XPS spectra showed that Cu(I) was the dominant species of copper on the surfaces of the two chalcopyrite samples, and STC had much more copper with lower Cu 2p 3/2 binding energy. Additionally, the Fermi energy of STC was much higher than that of PTC. These mineralogical differences were in good agreement with the bioleaching behaviors of chalcopyrite. This study will provide some new information for evaluating the oxidation kinetics of chalcopyrite.

Direct Synthesis of Anatase Films with ~100% (001) Facets and [001] Preferred Orientation.

PubMed

Ichimura, Andrew S; Mack, Brianne; Usmani, Shirin M; Mars, Diana

2012-06-26

Anatase films exhibiting ~100% (001) reactive facets at the surface were grown hydrothermally on gold substrate from a homogeneous solution of TiF(4) and NaF. In addition to NaF, it was found that TiO(2) films with very similar properties could be prepared with the fluoride salts LiF, CsF, HF, NH(4)F, and N(CH(2)CH(3))(4)F. The polycrystalline anatase films are continuous, approximately 1 μm thick, and evenly coat the substrate. The surface grain size is ~400 nm. Grazing angle XRD measurements show that the films exhibit a high degree of preferred orientation with the c-axis normal to the substrate surface. SEM images reveal that the grains span the thickness of the films. Annealing the films at 500 °C removes fluorine and causes crystallites within the grains to restructure as shown by SEM, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy. Supported anatase films grown from this one-pot method may serve as oxidative photocatalysts and electrodes for photoelectrochemical applications such as solar cells and hydrogen evolution.

Crystal dimension of ZSM-5 influences on para selective disproportionation of ethylbenzene.

PubMed

Hariharan, Srinivasan; Palanichamy, Muthaiahpillai

2014-03-01

Crystal size and crystal dimensions are vital role in shape selective feature. Para selective disproportionation of EthylBenzene (Dip-EB) was investigated over ZSM-5 synthesized in acidic medium. The catalysts were prepared by hydrothermal process with various Si/Al ratios (50, 75 and 100) using fluoride ion precursor. This fluoride ion precursor dissolves the ZSM-5 nutrients below it neutral pH between 4 and 6. The synthesized material was subjected into various physico chemical characterizations such as XRD, SEM, TGA and BET analyses. The XRD patterns showed high crystalline nature and their resulting SEM images were also indicate thin prismatic crystals of large dimension compared with alkaline medium synthesized one. The BET results earned good textural property. Catalytic activity of vapor phase Dip-EB was carried out between 523 and 673 K. As their result, diethylbenzene (DEB) isomers were obtained, but para selective Diethylbenzene (p-DEB) was observed higher than others. The high selectivity towards p-DEB was due to large crystal dimension of ZSM-5 catalysts synthesized in fluoride medium. Hence it is good commercial application for petrochemical feed stock production.

Structure, Morphology, and Optical Properties of Amorphous and Nanocrystalline Gallium Oxide Thin Films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kumar, S. Sampath; Rubio, E. J.; Noor-A-Alam, M.

Ga2O3 thin films were produced by sputter deposition by varying the substrate temperature (Ts) in a wide range (Ts=25-800 oC). The structural characteristics and optical properties of Ga2O3 films were evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS) and spectrophotometric measurements. The effect of growth temperature is significant on the chemistry, crystal structure and morphology of Ga2O3 films. XRD and SEM analyses indicate that the Ga2O3 films grown at lower temperatures were amorphous while those grown at Ts≥500 oC were nanocrystalline. RBS measurements indicate the well-maintained stoichiometry of Ga2O3 films atmore » Ts=300-700 oC. The spectral transmission of the films increased with increasing temperature. The band gap of the films varied from 4.96 eV to 5.17 eV for a variation in Ts in the range 25-800 oC. A relationship between microstructure and optical property is discussed.« less

Graphite to Graphene via Graphene Oxide: An Overview on Synthesis, Properties, and Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hansora, D. P.; Shimpi, N. G.; Mishra, S.

2015-12-01

This work represents a state-of-the-art technique developed for the preparation of graphene from graphite-metal electrodes by the arc-discharge method carried out in a continuous flow of water. Because of continuous arcing of graphite-metal electrodes, the graphene sheets were observed in water with uniformity and little damage. These nanosheets were subjected to various purification steps such as acid treatment, oxidation, water washing, centrifugation, and drying. The pure graphene sheets were analyzed using Raman spectrophotometry, x-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and tunneling electron microscopy (TEM). Peaks of Raman spectra were recorded at (1300-1400 cm-1) and (1500-1600 cm-1) for weak D-band and strong G-band, respectively. The XRD pattern showed 85.6% crystallinity of pure graphite, whereas pure graphene was 66.4% crystalline. TEM and FE-SEM micrographs revealed that graphene sheets were overlapped to each other and layer-by-layer formation was also observed. Beside this research work, we also reviewed recent developments of graphene and related nanomaterials along with their preparations, properties, functionalizations, and potential applications.

Ag loading induced visible light photocatalytic activity for pervoskite SrTiO3 nanofibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yeqiu; He, Tao

2018-06-01

The synthesis and photocatalytic activities of Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers were reported in this work. The fabricated Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers were characterized by TG-DSC, XRD, IR, XPS, SEM, TEM, DRS and ESR techniques. The XRD and IR results show that Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers have a perovskite structure after the heat treatment at 700 °C. The XPS result shows that Ag element exists as Ag0 in the fabricated Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers. The SEM and TEM images indicate the obtaining of nanofibers with porous structure. The photocatalytic activity of Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers was evaluated by degrading RhB and MB under visible light irradiation. The Ag-SrTiO3 nanofibers show excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation because of the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag0. In the photocatalysis process of RhB and MB, lots of hydroxyl radicals were generated, which plays the key role in the decomposition of organic pollutants.

Ag loading induced visible light photocatalytic activity for pervoskite SrTiO3 nanofibers.

PubMed

Wu, Yeqiu; He, Tao

2018-06-15

The synthesis and photocatalytic activities of Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers were reported in this work. The fabricated Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers were characterized by TG-DSC, XRD, IR, XPS, SEM, TEM, DRS and ESR techniques. The XRD and IR results show that Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers have a perovskite structure after the heat treatment at 700°C. The XPS result shows that Ag element exists as Ag 0 in the fabricated Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers. The SEM and TEM images indicate the obtaining of nanofibers with porous structure. The photocatalytic activity of Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers was evaluated by degrading RhB and MB under visible light irradiation. The Ag-SrTiO 3 nanofibers show excellent photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation because of the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag 0 . In the photocatalysis process of RhB and MB, lots of hydroxyl radicals were generated, which plays the key role in the decomposition of organic pollutants. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation and characterization of PVP-PVA–ZnO blend polymer nano composite films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Divya, S., E-mail: divi.fysics@gmail.com; Saipriya, G.; Hemalatha, J., E-mail: hemalatha@nitt.edu

Flexible self-standing films of PVP-PVA blend composites are prepared by using ZnO as a nano filler at different concentrations. The structural, compositional, morphological and optical studies made with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) and Photoluminescence (PL) spectra are presented in this paper. The results of XRD indicate that ZnO nanoparticles are formed with hexagonal phase in the polymeric matrix. SEM images show the dispersion of ZnO nano filler in the polymer matrix. UV–vis spectra reveal that the absorption peak is centered around 235more » nm and 370 nm for the nano composite films. The blue shift is observed with decrease in the concentration of the nano filler. PL spectra shows the excitation wavelength is given at 320 nm.The emission peaks were observed at 383 nm ascribing to the electronic transitions between valence band and conduction band and the peak at 430 nm.« less

Corrosion Resistance of a Sand Particle-Modified Enamel Coating Applied to Smooth Steel Bars

PubMed Central

Tang, Fujian; Chen, Genda; Brow, Richard K.; Koenigstein, Michael L.

2014-01-01

The protective performance of a sand particle-modified enamel coating on reinforcing steel bars was evaluated in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Seven percentages of sand particles by weight were investigated: 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50% and 70%. The phase composition of the enamel coating and sand particles were determined with the X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The surface and cross-sectional morphologies of the sand particle-modified enamel coating were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD tests revealed three phases of sand particles: SiO2, CaCO3 and MgCO3. SEM images demonstrated that the enamel coating wetted well with the sand particles. However, a weak enamel coating zone was formed around the sand particles due to concentrated air bubbles, leading to micro-cracks as hydrogen gas pressure builds up and exceeds the tensile strength of the weak zone. As a result, the addition of sand particles into the enamel coating reduced both the coating and corrosion resistances. PMID:28788203

Plasma nanocoating of thiophene onto MoS2 nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Türkaslan, Banu Esencan; Dikmen, Sibel; Öksüz, Lütfi; Öksüz, Aysegul Uygun

2015-12-01

MoS2 nanotubes were coated with conductive polymer thiophene by atmospheric pressure radio-frequency (RF) glow discharge. MoS2 nanotubes were prepared by thermal decomposition of hexadecylamine (HDA) intercalated laminar MoS2 precursor on anodized aluminum oxide template and the thiophene was polymerized directly on surface of these nanotubes as in situ by plasma method. The effect of plasma power on PTh/MoS2 nanocomposite properties has been investigated by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM and EDX), and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD). The presence of PTh bands in the FTIR spectra of PTh/MoS2 nanotube nanocomposites corresponding XRD results indicates that the polythiophene coating onto MoS2 nanotube. The chemical structure of PTh is not changed when the plasma power of discharge differ from 117 to 360 W. SEM images of nanocomposites show that when the discharge power is increased between 117 and 360 W the average diameter of PTh/MoS2 nanotube nanocomposites are changed and the structure become more uniformly.

Spray deposition of highly transparent fluorine doped cadmium oxide thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deokate, R. J.; Pawar, S. M.; Moholkar, A. V.; Sawant, V. S.; Pawar, C. A.; Bhosale, C. H.; Rajpure, K. Y.

2008-01-01

The cadmium oxide (CdO) and F:CdO films have been deposited by spray pyrolysis method using cadmium acetate and ammonium fluoride as precursors for Cd and F ions, respectively. The effect of temperature and F doping on the structural, morphological, optical and Hall effect properties of sprayed CdO thin films was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical absorption and electrical measurement techniques. TGA and DTA studies, indicates the formation of CdO by decomposition of cadmium acetate after 250 °C. XRD patterns reveal that samples are polycrystalline with cubic structure and exhibits (2 0 0) preferential orientation. Considerable broading of (2 0 0) peak, simultaneous shifting of corresponding Bragg's angle have been observed with respect to F doping level. SEM and AFM show the heterogeneous distribution of cubical grains all over the substrate, which are randomly distributed. F doping shifts the optical gap along with the increase in the transparency of CdO films. The Hall effect measurement indicates that the resistivity and mobility decrease up to 4% F doping.

Photoelectrochemical Performance of TiO2/Ti Electrode for Organic Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maulidiyah, M.; Wijawan, I. B. P.; Wibowo, D.; Aladin, A.; Hamzah, B.; Nurdin, M.

2018-05-01

Photoelectrochemical performance of TiO2/Ti electrode was investigated by using organic compounds. The TiO2/Ti electrode was prepared by anodic oxidation at a potential bias of 25 V for 4 h then calcined for 450 °C to obtain the anatase polymorph. Subsequently, it was characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). The XRD pattern showed that TiO2 has anatase phase as confirmed by 2θ peaks at 37.93° 63.00°, and 83.00°. Using SEM-EDX data the TiO2 layer was formed on Ti plate with the composition of Ti (4.5 keV) and O (0.5 keV) elements. Furthermore, the photoelectrochemical sensing on the three organic compounds (ascorbic acid, glucose, and titan yellow) with the electrolyte addition showed that the linearity of TiO2/Ti electrode were 0.937, 0.968, and 0.938, meanwhile without the electrolyte were 0.998, 0.989, and 0.923, respectively.

A new method of nanocrystalline nickel powder formation by magnetron sputtering on the water-soluble substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tučkutė, S.; Urbonavičius, M.; Lelis, M.; Maiorov, M.; Díaz Ordaz, J. R.; Milčius, D.

2018-01-01

Due to the accurate and relatively easy control magnetron sputtering is an attractive technique for the synthesis of metallic particles. This work describes a new method of nickel powder production by depositing nickel on the surface of sodium chloride particles which were used as the template and are soluble in water. Ni powder with flake-like structure was obtained after washing Ni coated salt particles in ultrasonic cleaner. Salt particles and nickel powder were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometer, XRD and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. SEM images showed that thickness of the received Ni particles varied in the nanoscale and depended on the magnetron deposition time but did not depend on the size of salt particles. On the other hand initial size of the salt particles was successfully employed a measure to control lateral dimensions of Ni powder. XRD and XPS analysis results revealed that Ni particles had metallic core and oxidized shell which was a cause of the slightly deteriorated magnetic properties.

Temperature characterization of dielectric permittivity and AC conductivity of nano copper oxide-doped polyaniline composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shubha, L. N.; Madhusudana Rao, P.

2016-06-01

The polyaniline/copper oxide (PANI/CuO) nanocomposite was prepared by mixing solutions of polyaniline and copper oxide nanoparticles in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The synthesized polymer nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and UV-visible spectroscopy. The characteristic peaks in XRD and UV-visible spectra confirmed the presence of CuO in the polymer structure. SEM images indicated morphological changes in the composite matrix as compared to the pristine PANI. The DC conductivity measurements were performed using two-probe method for various temperatures. AC conductivity and dielectric response of the composites were investigated in the frequency range of 102-106Hz using LCR meter. Dielectric permittivity ɛ‧(w) and dielectric loss factor ɛ‧‧(w) were investigated. It was observed that ɛ‧(w) and ɛ‧‧(w) decrease with increase in frequency at all temperatures. At a particular frequency it is observed that both ɛ‧(w) and ɛ‧‧(w) increase with increase in temperature. It was also observed that AC conductivity increased with increase in frequency and temperature.

Cyanidation Study of Slag Rich in Silver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez-Labra, Miguel; Romero-Serrano, J. Antonio; Ávila-Davila, E. O.; Reyes-Pérez, M.; Barrientos-Hernández, F. R.; Hernández, I. A. Lira

Slag from smelting reduction processes were characterized by chemical analysis, XRD, SEM-EDS and XRF. The results revealed Ag concentrations of 362 g/t of slag, the slag mineralogical characterization by XRD and SEM-EDS showed mineralogical species oxidized complex containing Pb, Zn, Ca, Si, Fe, As, S in its structure, silver was found in globules associated lead in the slag and the furutobeite specie. The leaching study was conducted to evaluate process variables such as NaCN concentration: from 7.8×10-3M - 1.26×10-1M, temperature: 25-50°C, particle size: +140 mesh to -400 mesh, stirring speed of 750 rpm - 900 rpm. All studies were performed with a NaOH concentration of 0.2 M. The optimal values of silver recovery encountered in conditions of 7.8×10-3M NaCN, agitation rate of 750 rpm, temperature of 35°C and with a treatment time of 240 min. We also observed that a particle size -400 mesh will have optimum recoveries compared to +140 mesh, +200, +270 and +325.

Spectroscopic studies on sidewall carboxylic acid functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with valine.

PubMed

Deborah, M; Jawahar, A; Mathavan, T; Dhas, M Kumara; Benial, A Milton Franklin

2015-03-15

The valine functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTS) were prepared and characterized by using XRD, UV-Vis, FT-IR, EPR, SEM, and EDX, spectroscopic techniques. The enhanced XRD peak (002) intensity was observed for valine functionalized MWCNTs compared with oxidized MWCNTs, which is likely due to sample purification by acid washing. UV-Vis study shows the formation of valine functionalized MWCNTs. FT-IR study confirms the presence of functional groups of oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs. The ESR line shape analysis indicates that the observed EPR line shape is a Gaussian line shape. The g-values indicate that the systems are isotropic in nature. The morphology study was carried out for oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs by using SEM. The EDX spectra revealed that the high purity of oxidized MWCNTs and valine functionalized MWCNTs. The functionalization has been chosen because, functionalization of CNTs with amino acids makes them soluble and biocompatible. Thus, they have potential applications in the field of biosensors and targeted drug delivery. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nano-sized ZnO powders prepared by co-precipitation method with various pH

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Purwaningsih, S. Y., E-mail: sriyanisaputri@gmail.com; Pratapa, S.; Triwikantoro,

2016-04-19

In this work, nano-sized ZnO powders have been synthesized by the co-precipitation method with Zn(CH3COOH)2.2H2O, HCl, and NH3.H2O as raw materials in various pH ranging from 8 to 10. The purity, microstructure, chemical group analysis, morphology of the prepared ZnO powders were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. Rietveld refinement of XRD data showed that ZnO crystallizes in the wurtzite structure with high purity. The obtained powders were nano-sized particles with the average crystallite size about 17.9 ± 2.1 nm synthesized with pH of 9.5, atmore » 85°C, and stirring time of 6 h. The SEM results have visualied the morphology of ZnO nanoparticles with spherical-like shape. The effect of processing conditions on morphology of ZnO was also discussed.« less

Accessibility of Enzymatically Delignified Bambusa bambos for Efficient Hydrolysis at Minimum Cellulase Loading: An Optimization Study.

PubMed

Kuila, Arindam; Mukhopadhyay, Mainak; Tuli, D K; Banerjee, Rintu

2011-01-01

In the present investigation, Bambusa bambos was used for optimization of enzymatic pretreatment and saccharification. Maximum enzymatic delignification achieved was 84%, after 8 h of incubation time. Highest reducing sugar yield from enzyme-pretreated Bambusa bambos was 818.01 mg/g dry substrate after 8 h of incubation time at a low cellulase loading (endoglucanase, β-glucosidase, exoglucanase, and xylanase were 1.63 IU/mL, 1.28 IU/mL, 0.08 IU/mL, and 47.93 IU/mL, respectively). Enzyme-treated substrate of Bambusa bambos was characterized by analytical techniques such as Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The FTIR spectrum showed that the absorption peaks of several functional groups were decreased after enzymatic pretreatment. XRD analysis indicated that cellulose crystallinity of enzyme-treated samples was increased due to the removal of amorphous lignin and hemicelluloses. SEM image showed that surface structure of Bambusa bambos was distorted after enzymatic pretreatment.

Synthesis of Carbon Nano Materials Originated from Waste Cooking Oil Using a Nebulized Spray Pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arie, A. A.; Hadisaputra, L.; Susanti, R. F.; Devianto, H.; Halim, M.; Enggar, R.; Lee, J. K.

2017-07-01

Synthesis of nanocarbon on snake fruit-peel’s activated carbon from waste cooking oil palm was conducted by a nebulized spray pyrolysis process (NSP) by varying the processing temperature from 650 to 750 °C. Ferrocene was used as a catalyst with constant concentration of 0.015 g/ml of carbon source. The structure of nanocarbon was studied by using scanning electron microscope (SEM),x-ray diffraction (XRD), surface area analyzer and Raman spectroscopy. SEM results showed that the structures of carbon products was in the the form of carbon nanopsheres (CNS). XRD and Raman analysis confirmed the CNS structure. The carbon producs were then tested as electrode’s materials for lithium ion capacitors (LIC) by cyclic voltammetry (CV) instruments. From the CV results the specific capacitance was estimated as 79.57 F / g at a scan rate of 0.1 mV / s and voltage range from 2.5 - 4 V. This study shows that the nano carbons synthesized from the waste cooking oil can be used as prospective electrode materials for LIC.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kanel, S. R.; Clement, T. P.; Barnett, M. O.

Synthetic nano-scale hydroxyapatite (NHA) was prepared and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. The XRD data confirmed that the crystalline structure and chemical composition of NHA correspond to Ca 5 OH(PO 4 ) 3 . The SEM data confirmed the size of NHA to be less than 50 nm. A two-dimensional physical model packed with saturated porous media was used to study the transport characteristics of NHA under constant flow conditions. The data show that the transport patterns of NHA were almost identical to tracer transport patterns. This result indicates that the NHA material can movemore » with water like a tracer, and its movement was neither retarded nor influenced by any physicochemical interactions and/or density effects. We have also tested the reactivity of NHA with 1 mg/L hexavalent uranium (U(VI)) and found that complete removal of U(VI) is possible using 0.5 g/L NHA at pH 5 to 6. Our results demonstrate that NHA has the potential to be injected as a dilute slurry for in situ treatment of U(VI)-contaminated groundwater systems.« less

Synthesis and properties of precipitated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ristic, Mira; Krehula, Stjepko; Reissner, Michael; Jean, Malick; Hannoyer, Beatrice; Musić, Svetozar

2017-07-01

The formation and properties of cobalt ferrite were investigated with XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM, Mössbauer and magnetometry. Cobalt ferrite samples were prepared (a) by combining coprecipitation Co(OH)2/2Fe(OH)3, using NaOH between pH 5.2 and 11.4 and autoclaving, and (b) by autoclaving the Co(OH)2/2Fe(OH)3 coprecipitate in a very strong alkaline medium. XRD and FE SEM showed that both CoFe2O4 crystallites and particles were in the nanosize range. The FT-IR spectra were typical of spinel ferrites. Cobalt ferrite precipitated at pH 7.2 and at 11.4 contained a small fraction of α-Fe2O3, whereas in the sample precipitated at pH 11.4 a very small amount (traces) of α-FeOOH were detected by FT-IR, additionally. Parameters obtained by Mössbauer spectroscopy suggested a structural migration of cobalt and iron ions in prepared cobalt ferrite spinels with the prolonged time of autoclaving. Magnetic measurements showed the magnetic behaviour typical of spinel ferrite nanoparticles.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chandraboss, V.L.; Natanapatham, L.; Karthikeyan, B.

Graphical abstract: The hetero-junctions that are formed between the ZnO and the Bi provide an internal electric field that facilitates separation of the electron-hole pairs and induces faster carrier migration. Thus they often enhanced photocatalytic reaction. - Highlights: • Bi-doped ZnO nanocomposite material was prepared by precipitation method. • Characterized by XRD, HR-SEM with EDX, UV–visible DRS and FT-RAMAN analysis. • Bi-doped ZnO nanocomposite material was used to photodegradation of Congo red. • Mechanism and photocatalytic effect of nanocomposite material have been discussed. - Abstract: Bismuth (Bi)-doped ZnO nanocomposite material was prepared by precipitation method with doping precursors of bismuthmore » nitrate pentahydrate and oxalic acid, characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), High Resolution-Scanning Electron Microscopy (HR-SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, UV–visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV–visible DRS) and Fourier Transform-Raman (FT-RAMAN) analysis. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the Bi-doped ZnO is demonstrated through photodegradation of Congo red under UV-light irradiation. The mechanism of photocatalytic effect of Bi-doped ZnO nanocomposite material has been discussed.« less

Electrochemical synthesis and photoelectrochemical properties of grass-like nanostructured α-Fe2O3 photoanodes for use in solar water oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanedar, Yesim; Demir, Umit; Oznuluer, Tuba

2016-10-01

Grass-like nanostructured α-Fe2O3 photoelectrodes were prepared for the first time through a simple cathodic electrodeposition method from an oxygenated aqueous solution of Fe3+ at room temperature without using surfactant, capping agents or any other additives. The α-Fe2O3 electrodeposits were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis absorption and photoelectrochemical (PEC) techniques. The SEM and XRD results indicated that the as-deposited α-Fe2O3 are composed of single crystalline nanoleaves. The formation mechanisms of α-Fe2O3 have also been proposed based on a series of cyclic voltammetric and XPS studies. This new electrochemical method is expected to be a useful technique for the fabrication of single crystalline and photoactive α-Fe2O3 nanostructures directly onto the electrode surface, which is required in most applications, such as energy conversion and storage and sensors.

Effect of lead ion concentration on the structural and optical properties of nano-crystalline PbS thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaman, S.; Mehmood, S. K.; Mansoor, M.; Asim, M. M.

2014-06-01

PbS thin films have received considerable attention because of their potential applications in opto-electronics applications. Spontaneous reaction of lead acetate and thiourea in aqueous hydrazine hydrate has been used for depositing PbS thin films on glass substrates. Structural and optical properties of PbS thin films are greatly influenced by the morality of the reactants and crystal defects in the lattice. Our work focuses on the variation in lead ion concentration and its effect on the structural and optical properties of PbS thin films. The deposited films were analyzed using XRD, SEM, spectrophotometer and dark resistance measurement. XRD patterns indicated the formation of major phase of nano crystalline PbS with minor presence of lead oxide phase. We also noticed that peak intensity ratio of I111/I200 varied by changing the Pb ion concentration. The film thickness and dark resistance increased whereas optical band gap decreased with the decreasing Pb ion concentration. SEM scans showed that the grain size is less than 100 nm and is not affected by varying Pb ion concentration.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using tannins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raja, Pandian Bothi; Rahim, Afidah Abdul; Qureshi, Ahmad Kaleem; Awang, Khalijah

2014-09-01

Colloidal silver nanoparticles were prepared by rapid green synthesis using different tannin sources as reducing agent viz. chestnut (CN), mangrove (MG) and quebracho (QB). The aqueous silver ions when exposed to CN, MG and QB tannins were reduced which resulted in formation of silver nanoparticles. The resultant silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Visible, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Furthermore, the possible mechanism of nanoparticles synthesis was also derived using FT-IR analysis. Spectroscopy analysis revealed that the synthesized nanoparticles were within 30 to 75 nm in size, while XRD results showed that nanoparticles formed were crystalline with face centered cubic geometry.

Sb:SnO2 thin films-synthesis and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhadrapriya B., C.; Varghese, Anitta Rose; Amarendra, G.; Hussain, Shamima

2018-04-01

Transparent thin films of antimony doped SnO2 have been synthesized and characterized using optical spectroscopy, XRD, RAMAN and FESEM. The band gap of Sb doped tin oxide thin film samples were found to vary from 3.26 eV to 3.7 eV. The XRD peaks showed prominent rutile SnO2 peaks with diminished intensity due to antimony doping. A wide band in the range 550-580 cm-1 was observed in raman spectra and is a feature of nano-sized SnO2. SEM images showed flower-like structures on thin film surface, a characteristic feature of antimony.

Electrochromic TiO2 Thin Film Prepared by Dip-Coating Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suriani, S.; Kamisah, M. M.

2002-12-01

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin films were prepared by using sol-gel dip coating technique. The coating solutions were prepared by reacting titanium isopropoxide as precursors and ethanol as solvent. The films were formed on transparent ITO-coated glass by a dip coating technique and final dried at various temperatures up to 600 °C for 30 minutes. The films were characterized with the UV-Vis-NIR Spectrometer, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). XRD results show that the films dried at 600 °C form anatase structure. From the spectroscopic studies, the sample shows electrochromic property.

Iron sand - ZnO based materials of natural origin for dye decolorization under sunlight irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salprima Yudha, S.; Angasa, Eka; Fitriani, Dyah; Falahudin, Aswin

2017-03-01

A mixed iron sand - ZnO materials was prepared by heating a mixture of natural iron sand and ZnO at 900 °C for 5 hours. XRD study of the sample revealed that, in the mixed iron sand - ZnO present some minor peaks that similar with XRD pattern of γ-Fe2O3 and/or Fe3O4. Observation of the sample using SEM, showed a compact morpholgy and almost homogenenous in particles size. In purpose to evaluate the ability of this materials for textile dying wastewater treatment, a study on rhodamine B decolorization was carried out as a reperesentative.

78 FR 20001 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Idaho: Sandpoint PM10

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-03

... (Sandpoint NAA) for particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to a nominal 10... NAA LMP that does not meet LMP eligibility criteria or applicable requirements under the Clean Air Act (CAA). The part of the Sandpoint NAA LMP that the EPA is approving complies with applicable...

NAA thinning of ‘W. Murcott’

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This study was conducted to determine if NAA thinning may be useful for managing cropload in Florida ‘W Murcott’. Trials were conducted in two groves of ages 4 and 6 years. NAA was applied on 13 May, 2010, when fruitlets averaged 10-12 mm in diameter. A randomized complete block design was used, ...

Naphthalene Acetic Acid Potassium Salt (NAA-K+) Affects Conidial Germination, Sporulation, Mycelial Growth, Cell Surface Morphology, and Viability of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radici-lycopersici and F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense in Vitro.

PubMed

Manzo-Valencia, María Karina; Valdés-Santiago, Laura; Sánchez-Segura, Lino; Guzmán-de-Peña, Dora Linda

2016-11-09

The response to exogenous addition of naphthalene acetic acid potassium salt (NAA-K + ) to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp radici-lycopersici ATCC 60095 and F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense isolated from Michoacan Mexico soil is reported. The in vitro study showed that NAA-K + might be effective in the control of Fusarium oxysporum. Exogenous application of NAA-K + affected both spores and mycelium stages of the fungi. Viability testing using acridine orange and propidium iodide showed that NAA-K + possesses fungal killing properties, doing it effectively in the destruction of conidia of this phytopathogenic fungi. Analysis of treated spores by scanning electron microscopy showed changes in the shape factor and fractal dimension. Moreover, NAA-K + repressed the expression of brlA and fluG genes. The results disclosed here give evidence of the use of this synthetic growth factor as a substance of biocontrol that presents advantages, and the methods of application in situ should be explored.

Reduced hippocampal N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) as a biomarker for overweight☆

PubMed Central

Coplan, Jeremy D.; Fathy, Hassan M.; Abdallah, Chadi G.; Ragab, Sherif A.; Kral, John G.; Mao, Xiangling; Shungu, Dikoma C.; Mathew, Sanjay J.

2014-01-01

Objective We previously demonstrated an inverse relationship between both dentate gyrus neurogenesis – a form of neuroplasticity – and expression of the antiapoptotic gene marker, BCL-2 and adult macaque body weight. We therefore explored whether a similar inverse correlation existed in humans between body mass index (BMI) and hippocampal N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), a marker of neuronal integrity and putatively, neuroplasticity. We also studied the relationship of a potentially neurotoxic process, worry, to hippocampal NAA in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and control subjects (CS). Methods We combined two previously studied cohorts of GAD and control subjects. Using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging (1H MRSI) in medication-free patients with GAD (n = 29) and a matched healthy control group (n = 22), we determined hippocampal concentrations of (1) NAA (2) choline containing compounds (CHO), and (3) Creatine + phosphocreatine (CR). Data were combined from 1.5 T and 3 T scans by converting values from each cohort to z-scores. Overweight and GAD diagnosis were used as categorical variables while the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) and Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) were used as dependent variables. Results Overweight subjects (BMI ≥ 25) exhibited lower NAA levels in the hippocampus than normal-weight subjects (BMI < 25) (partial Eta-squared = 0.14) controlling for age, sex and psychiatric diagnosis, and the effect was significant for the right hippocampus in both GAD patients and control subjects. An inverse linear correlation was noted in all subjects between right hippocampal NAA and BMI. High scores on the PSWQ predicted low hippocampal NAA and CR. Both BMI and worry were independent inverse predictors of hippocampal NAA. Conclusion Overweight was associated with reduced NAA concentrations in the hippocampus with a strong effect size. Future mechanistic studies are warranted. PMID:24501701

A.C. impedance, XRD, DSC, SEM and charge/discharge studies on Al2O3, TiO2, SiO2 dispersoid LiPF6/PVC/PVdF-co-HFP composite polymer electrolytes by phase inversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vickraman, P.; Gopukumar, S.

2017-07-01

The PVC/PVdF-co-HFP composite polymer electrolyte membranes (CPEMs) by varying blend ratios 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 with fixed content of Al2O3, TiO2 and SiO2 having soaked in 0.5 M LiPF6 in EC/DEC (1:1) v/v) have been prepared by phase inversion. CPEMs of higher ionic conductivity (not dependent on electrolyte uptake as observed in our study) ASA4 (3.61×10-4 Scm-1), TSA3 (1.53×10-4 Scm-1), and SSA3 (4.81×10-4 Scm-1) have been only chosen for XRD, DSC, SEM and electrochemical studies. In XRD, crystalline peaks (phases) of PVdF have been noted with/without change in intensity as well as FWHM which correspond to type of filler interaction with host matrix. In DSC, it is observed that shifts in baseline, melting endotherms, and area under the endotherms indicating the thermal hist ory of PVC (Tg = 82 ° C) and melting of VdF crystallites varied with nature of the filler dispersoid. In SEM, the coagulated fibrils of the polymer coiled with the sponge like structure has been mapped. The charge/discharge studies are carried out on these CPEMs at C/10 rate in the voltage range 2.8 V - 4.2 V, and it is noted that the TSA3 showed better cycling performance with good capacity retention i.e., 50 cycles with 66% capacity retention than ASA4 of 28 cycles with 65% and SSA3 of 5 cycles with 56%. In the present study Coulombic efficiency is concerned only for first cycle and it is noted that the TSA3 showed 71% than 66% and 62% respectively for SSA3 and ASA4.

Phosphorus Sorption Characteristics in Aluminum-based Water Treatment Residuals Reacted with Dairy Wastewater: 1. Isotherms, XRD, and SEM-EDS Analysis.

PubMed

Zohar, Iris; Massey, Michael S; Ippolito, James A; Litaor, M Iggy

2018-05-01

We examined P sorption characteristics in Al-based water treatment residuals (Al-WTR) generated from slightly alkaline surface water and in an organic residual composite (WW-Al/O-WTR), produced by using the Al-WTR to treat organic-rich and high P concentration dairy wastewater. Solids from both residuals were examined using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and exposed to P additions of 0 to 4000 mg L in a sorption experiment. The Al-WTR removed ∼97% of the added P, whereas WW-Al/O-WTR removed only 78% of the added P in the addition range of 0 to 100 mg P L. With P additions of ≥100 mg L, the removal rate declined to <38% by Al-WTR and to 16% by WW-Al/O-WTR, possibly implying a change in sorption mechanisms. Analysis by XRD indicated that the major mineral was calcite, with some silica and poorly crystalline Al hydroxides. Analysis by SEM-EDS, which used three-element overlay maps of the residual surfaces, indicated that P was sparsely sorbed on both calcic and Al (hydr)oxide surfaces, along with a few clusters, even at low P concentrations of the treated waters. Ternary clusters of P, Al, and Ca were more abundant on the WW-Al/O-WTR. Carbon distribution suggested that organic substances covered Al surfaces. Sorption of P onto WW-Al/O-WTR may be reversible due to relatively weak Ca-P and Al-P bonds induced by the slight alkaline nature and in the presence of organic moieties, enhancing the WW-Al/O-WTR potential to act as a P source, rather than a P sink, in agricultural applications. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chatt, A.

The 60th anniversary of the discovery of neutron activation analysis (NAA) by Hevesy and Levi is being celebrated in 1996. With the availability of nuclear reactors capable of producing fluxes of the order of 10{sup 12} to 10{sup 14} n/cm{sup 2}s, the development of high-resolution and high-efficiency conventional and anticoincidence gamma-ray detectors, multichannel pulse-height analyzers, and personal computer-based softwares, NAA has become an extremely valuable analytical technique, especially for the simultaneous determinations of multielement concentrations. This technique can be used in a number of ways, depending on the nature of the matrix, the major elements in the sample, and onmore » the elements of interest. In most cases, several elements can be determined without any chemical pretreatment of the sample; the technique is then called instrumental NAA (INAA). In other cases, an element can be concentrated from an interfering matrix prior to irradiation; the technique is then termed preconcentration NAA (PNAA). In opposite instances, the irradiation is followed by a chemical separation of the desired element; the technique is then called radiochemical NAA (RNAA). All three forms of NAA can provide elemental concentrations of high accuracy and precision with excellent sensitivity. The number of research reactors in developing countries has increased steadily from 17 in 1955 through 71 in 1975 to 89 in 1995. Low flux reactors such as SLOWPOKE and the Chinese MNSR are primarily used for NAA.« less

Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study on the Metabolism Changes of Cerebellum in Patients with Post-Stroke Depression.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Sui, Ru-Bo

2017-01-01

To study the metabolic changes of cerebellum by proton magnetic resonance Spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and discuss the relationships between the cerebellar changes and depression severity in patients with post-stroke depression. Data of demographic characteristics, individual history and life style of all subjects were collected. 40 patients with stroke and 20 controls were enrolled. All groups received T1WI, T2WI, DWI and 1H-MRS examination. The cerebral infarction volume and the distribution and severity of leukoaraiosis were evaluated. The ratios of NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA in the cerebellum were calculated. There were no statistical significant difference in the NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA ratios in bilateral cerebellum between CONT group and NORM group. The Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA ratios in the cerebellum contralateral to the stroke region were higher in PSD group than those in NORM and CONT groups, and the Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA ratios in the cerebellum ipsilateral to the stroke region were similar with those in NORM and CONT groups. However, there were no statistical significant difference in the NAA/Cr ratios in bilateral cerebellum among three groups. The result shows preliminarily that the cerebellum involves in the development of post-stroke depression. © 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Fabrication and Characterization of Dense Zirconia and Zirconia-Silica Ceramic Nanofibers

PubMed Central

Guo, Guangqing; Fan, Yuwei

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to prepare dense zirconia-yttria (ZY), zirconia-silica (ZS) and zirconia-yttria-silica (ZYS) nanofibers as reinforcing elements for dental composites. Zirconium (IV) propoxide, yttrium nitrate hexahydrate, and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) were used as precursors for the preparation of zirconia, yttria, and silica sols. A small amount (1–1.5 wt%) of polyethylene oxide (PEO) was used as a carry polymer. The sols were preheated at 70 °C before electrospinning and their viscosity was measured with a viscometer at different heating time. The gel point was determined by viscosity–time (η–t) curve. The ZY, ZS and ZYS gel nanofibers were prepared using a special reactive electrospinning device under the conditions near the gel point. The as-prepared gel nanofibers had diameters between 200 and 400 nm. Dense (nonporous) ceramic nanofibers of zirconia-yttria (96/4), zirconia-silica (80/20) and zirconia-yttria-silica (76.8/3.2/20) with diameter of 100–300 nm were obtained by subsequent calcinations at different temperatures. The gel and ceramic nanofibers obtained were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), high-resolution field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). SEM micrograph revealed that ceramic ZY nanofibers had grained structure, while ceramic ZS and ZYS nanofibers had smooth surfaces, both showing no visible porosity under FE-SEM. Complete removal of the polymer PEO was confirmed by TGA/DSC and FT-IR. The formation of tetragonal phase of zirconia and amorphous silica was proved by XRD. In conclusion, dense zirconia-based ceramic nanofibers can be fabricated using the new reactive sol–gel electrospinning technology with minimum organic polymer additives. PMID:21133090

Roughness-controlled self-assembly of mannitol/LB agar microparticles by polymorphic transformation for pulmonary drug delivery.

PubMed

Zhang, Fengying; Ngoc, Nguyen Thi Quynh; Tay, Bao Hui; Mendyk, Aleksander; Shao, Yu-Hsuan; Lau, Raymond

2015-01-05

Novel roughness-controlled mannitol/LB Agar microparticles were synthesized by polymorphic transformation and self-assembly method using hexane as the polymorphic transformation reagent and spray-dried mannitol/LB Agar microparticles as the starting material. As-prepared microparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), X-ray diffraction spectra (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Andersen Cascade Impactor (ACI). The XRD and DSC results indicate that after immersing spray-dried mannitol/LB Agar microparticles in hexane, β-mannitol was completely transformed to α-mannitol in 1 h, and all the δ-mannitol was transformed to α form after 14 days. SEM shows that during the transformation the nanobelts on the spray-dried mannitol/LB Agar microparticles become more dispersed and the contour of the individual nanobelts becomes more noticeable. Afterward, the nanobelts self-assemble to nanorods and result in rod-covered mannitol/LB Agar microparticles. FTIR indicates new hydrogen bonds were formed among mannitol, LB Agar, and hexane. SEM images coupled with image analysis software reveal that different surface morphology of the microparticles have different drug adhesion mechanisms. Comparison of ACI results and image analysis of SEM images shows that an increase in the particle surface roughness can increase the fine particle fractions (FPFs) using the rod-covered mannitol microparticles as drug carriers. Transformed microparticles show higher FPFs than commercially available lactose carriers. An FPF of 28.6 ± 2.4% was achieved by microparticles transformed from spray-dried microparticles using 2% mannitol(w/v)/LB Agar as feed solution. It is comparable to the highest FPF reported in the literature using lactose and spray-dried mannitol as carriers.

Mössbauer and XRD study of novel quaternary Sn-Fe-Co-Ni electroplated alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuzmann, E.; Sziráki, L.; Stichleutner, S.; Homonnay, Z.; Lak, G. B.; El-Sharif, M.; Chisholm, C. U.

2017-11-01

Constant current electrochemical deposition technique was used to obtain quaternary alloys of Sn-Fe-Co-Ni from a gluconate electrolyte, which to date have not been reported in the literature. For the characterization of electroplated alloys, 57Fe and 119Sn Conversion Electron Mössbauer Spectroscopy (CEMS), XRD and SEM/EDAX were used. XRD revealed the amorphous character of the novel Sn-Fe-Co-Ni electrodeposited alloys. 57Fe Mössbauer spectrum of quaternary deposit with composition of 37.0 at% Sn, 38.8 at% Fe, 16.8 at% Co and 7.4 at% Ni displayed a magnetically split sextet (B = 28.9T) with broad lines typical of iron bearing ferromagnetic amorphous alloys. Magnetically split 119Sn spectra reflecting a transferred hyperfine field (B = 2.3T) were also observed. New quaternary Sn-Fe-Co-Ni alloys were successfully prepared.

78 FR 67952 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Mississippi; Transportation Conformity SIP...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-13

... effective date of the nonattainment area (NAA) designations. See 40 CFR 51.390(c). On April 30, 2012, EPA... in the 8- hour ozone Memphis NAA.\\2\\ The Memphis Urban Area MPO \\3\\ is within the Memphis Area and is... and/or update their respective transportation conformity SIPs for the Memphis NAA in separate...

20 CFR 663.515 - What is the process for initial determination of provider eligibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... the National Apprenticeship Act (NAA), and the providers or such programs, Local Boards determine the... the HEA or registered under the NAA, and for providers not eligible under title IV of the HEA or carrying out apprenticeship programs under NAA: (1) The Governor must develop a procedure for use by Local...

Cancer-specific production of N-acetylaspartate via NAT8L overexpression in non-small cell lung cancer and its potential as a circulating biomarker

PubMed Central

Lou, Tzu-Fang; Sethuraman, Deepa; Dospoy, Patrick; Srivastva, Pallevi; Kim, Hyun Seok; Kim, Joongsoo; Ma, Xiaotu; Chen, Pei-Hsuan; Huffman, Kenneth E.; Frink, Robin E.; Larsen, Jill E.; Lewis, Cheryl; Um, Sang-Won; Kim, Duk-Hwan; Ahn, Jung-Mo; DeBerardinis, Ralph J.; White, Michael A.; Minna, John D.; Yoo, Hyuntae

2015-01-01

In order to identify new cancer-associated metabolites that may be useful for early detection of lung cancer, we performed a global metabolite profiling of a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) line and immortalized normal lung epithelial cells from the same patient. Among several metabolites with significant cancer/normal differences, we identified a unique metabolic compound, N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in cancer cells — undetectable in normal lung epithelium. NAA’s cancer-specific detection was validated in additional cancer and control lung cells as well as selected NSCLC patient tumors and control tissues. NAA’s cancer-specificity was further supported in our analysis of NAA synthetase (gene symbol: NAT8L) gene expression levels in The Cancer Genome Atlas: elevated NAT8L expression in approximately 40% of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma cases (N=577), with minimal expression in all non-malignant lung tissues (N=74). We then showed that NAT8L is functionally involved in NAA production of NSCLC cells through siRNA-mediated suppression of NAT8L, which caused selective reduction of intracellular and secreted NAA. Our cell culture experiments also indicated that NAA biosynthesis in NSCLC cells depends on glutamine availability. For preliminary evaluation of NAA’s clinical potential as a circulating biomarker, we developed a sensitive NAA blood assay and found that NAA blood levels were elevated in 46% of NSCLC patients (N=13) in comparison with age-matched healthy controls (N=21) among individuals aged 55 years or younger. Taken together, these results indicate that NAA is produced specifically in NSCLC tumors through NAT8L overexpression and its extracellular secretion can be detected in blood. PMID:26511490

Truncating Variants in NAA15 Are Associated with Variable Levels of Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Congenital Anomalies.

PubMed

Cheng, Hanyin; Dharmadhikari, Avinash V; Varland, Sylvia; Ma, Ning; Domingo, Deepti; Kleyner, Robert; Rope, Alan F; Yoon, Margaret; Stray-Pedersen, Asbjørg; Posey, Jennifer E; Crews, Sarah R; Eldomery, Mohammad K; Akdemir, Zeynep Coban; Lewis, Andrea M; Sutton, Vernon R; Rosenfeld, Jill A; Conboy, Erin; Agre, Katherine; Xia, Fan; Walkiewicz, Magdalena; Longoni, Mauro; High, Frances A; van Slegtenhorst, Marjon A; Mancini, Grazia M S; Finnila, Candice R; van Haeringen, Arie; den Hollander, Nicolette; Ruivenkamp, Claudia; Naidu, Sakkubai; Mahida, Sonal; Palmer, Elizabeth E; Murray, Lucinda; Lim, Derek; Jayakar, Parul; Parker, Michael J; Giusto, Stefania; Stracuzzi, Emanuela; Romano, Corrado; Beighley, Jennifer S; Bernier, Raphael A; Küry, Sébastien; Nizon, Mathilde; Corbett, Mark A; Shaw, Marie; Gardner, Alison; Barnett, Christopher; Armstrong, Ruth; Kassahn, Karin S; Van Dijck, Anke; Vandeweyer, Geert; Kleefstra, Tjitske; Schieving, Jolanda; Jongmans, Marjolijn J; de Vries, Bert B A; Pfundt, Rolph; Kerr, Bronwyn; Rojas, Samantha K; Boycott, Kym M; Person, Richard; Willaert, Rebecca; Eichler, Evan E; Kooy, R Frank; Yang, Yaping; Wu, Joseph C; Lupski, James R; Arnesen, Thomas; Cooper, Gregory M; Chung, Wendy K; Gecz, Jozef; Stessman, Holly A F; Meng, Linyan; Lyon, Gholson J

2018-05-03

N-alpha-acetylation is a common co-translational protein modification that is essential for normal cell function in humans. We previously identified the genetic basis of an X-linked infantile lethal Mendelian disorder involving a c.109T>C (p.Ser37Pro) missense variant in NAA10, which encodes the catalytic subunit of the N-terminal acetyltransferase A (NatA) complex. The auxiliary subunit of the NatA complex, NAA15, is the dimeric binding partner for NAA10. Through a genotype-first approach with whole-exome or genome sequencing (WES/WGS) and targeted sequencing analysis, we identified and phenotypically characterized 38 individuals from 33 unrelated families with 25 different de novo or inherited, dominantly acting likely gene disrupting (LGD) variants in NAA15. Clinical features of affected individuals with LGD variants in NAA15 include variable levels of intellectual disability, delayed speech and motor milestones, and autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, mild craniofacial dysmorphology, congenital cardiac anomalies, and seizures are present in some subjects. RNA analysis in cell lines from two individuals showed degradation of the transcripts with LGD variants, probably as a result of nonsense-mediated decay. Functional assays in yeast confirmed a deleterious effect for two of the LGD variants in NAA15. Further supporting a mechanism of haploinsufficiency, individuals with copy-number variant (CNV) deletions involving NAA15 and surrounding genes can present with mild intellectual disability, mild dysmorphic features, motor delays, and decreased growth. We propose that defects in NatA-mediated N-terminal acetylation (NTA) lead to variable levels of neurodevelopmental disorders in humans, supporting the importance of the NatA complex in normal human development. Copyright © 2018 American Society of Human Genetics. All rights reserved.

Synthesis and characterization of barium hexaferrite with manganese (Mn) doping material as anti-radar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Susilawati, Doyan, Aris; Khalilurrahman

2017-01-01

Have been successfully synthesized barium powder doping Manganese hexaferrite with the expected potential as anti-radar material. Synthesis was done by using the co-precipitation method, the variation of the variable x concentrations used were 0; 0.2; 0.4; and 0.6 and calcined at temperatures of 400, 600 and 800°C. Characterization powders of hexaferrite have used XRD (X-Ray Diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy), TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy), LCR (inductance, capacitance, and resistance) meter, and VSM (Vibrating Sample Magnetometer). The higher the concentration and temperature of calcinations given affect the color of the powder. The test results using XRD indicates that it has formed barium hexaferrite phase with a hexagonal crystal structure. Tests using SEM showed that all the constituent elements barium powder hexaferrite by doping Manganese powders have been spread evenly. XRD test results were confirmed by a test using a TEM showing the crystal structure and the powder was sized nano particles. The results from the LCR meter showed that the barium powder hexaferrite by doping Manganese that has been synthesized classified in semiconductor materials. The result from VSM showed that the value of coercivity magnetic powder doped barium hexaferrite Manganese is smaller when compared with barium hexaferrite without doping and belong to the soft magnetic. Based on the results of the synthesis and characterization, we can conclude that the barium powder heksaferrite by doping Manganese potential as a material anti-radar.

Functionalized NaA nanozeolites labeled with 224,225Ra for targeted alpha therapy.

PubMed

Piotrowska, Agata; Leszczuk, Edyta; Bruchertseifer, Frank; Morgenstern, Alfred; Bilewicz, Aleksander

2013-01-01

The 223 Ra, 224 Ra, and 225 Ra radioisotopes exhibit very attractive nuclear properties for application in radionuclide therapy. Unfortunately the lack of appropriate bifunctional ligand for radium is the reason why these radionuclides have not found application in receptor-targeted therapy. In the present work, the potential usefulness of the NaA nanozeolite as a carrier for radium radionuclides has been studied. 224 Ra and 225 Ra, α-particle emitting radionuclides, have been absorbed in the nanometer-sized NaA zeolite (30-70 nm) through simple ion exchange. 224,225 Ra-nanozeolites exhibited very high stability in solutions containing physiological salt, EDTA, amino acids, and human serum. To make NaA nanozeolite particles dispersed in water their surface was modified with a silane coupling agent containing poly(ethylene glycol) molecules. This functionalization approach let us covalently attach a biomolecule to the NaA nanozeolite surface.

XRF, μ-XRD and μ-spectroscopic techniques for revealing the composition and structure of paint layers on polychrome sculptures after multiple restorations.

PubMed

Franquelo, M L; Duran, A; Castaing, J; Arquillo, D; Perez-Rodriguez, J L

2012-01-30

This paper presents the novel application of recently developed analytical techniques to the study of paint layers on sculptures that have been restored/repainted several times across centuries. Analyses were performed using portable XRF, μ-XRD and μ-Raman instruments. Other techniques, such as optical microscopy, SEM-EDX and μ-FTIR, were also used. Pigments and other materials including vermilion, minium, red lac, ivory black, lead white, barium white, zinc white (zincite), titanium white (rutile and anatase), lithopone, gold and brass were detected. Pigments from both ancient and modern times were found due to the different restorations/repaintings carried out. μ-Raman was very useful to characterise some pigments that were difficult to determine by μ-XRD. In some cases, pigments identification was only possible by combining results from the different analytical techniques used in this work. This work is the first article devoted to the study of sculpture cross-section samples using laboratory-made μ-XRD systems. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

78 FR 76382 - Notice of Cancellation of Environmental Impact Statement for the Norfolk International Airport...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... Norfolk Airport Authority (NAA), the owner and operator of the airport. The additional planning effort by NAA has modified the project purpose and need and refined various project elements, including the need... decision to prepare a federal EIS primarily on NAA's proposal to construct a new Runway 5R/23L in parallel...

Fine tuning of transmission features in nanoporous anodic alumina distributed Bragg reflectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Siew Yee; Law, Cheryl Suwen; Santos, Abel

2018-01-01

This study introduces an innovative apodisation strategy to tune the filtering features of distributed Bragg reflectors based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA-DBRs). The effective medium of NAA-DBRs, which is modulated in a stepwise fashion by a pulse-like anodisation approach, is apodised following a logarithmic negative function to engineer the transmission features of NAA-DBRs. We investigate the effect of various apodisation parameters such as apodisation amplitude difference, anodisation period, current density offset and pore widening time, to tune and optimise the optical properties of NAA-DBRs in terms of central wavelength position, full width at half maximum and quality of photonic stop band. The transmission features of NAA-DBRs are shown to be fully controllable with precision across the spectral regions by means of the apodisation parameters. Our study demonstrates that an apodisation strategy can significantly narrow the width and enhance the quality of the characteristic photonic stop band of NAA-DBRs. This rationally designed anodisation approach based on the combination of apodisation and stepwise pulse anodisation enables the development of optical filters with tuneable filtering features to be integrated into optical technologies acting as essential photonic elements in devices such as optical sensors and biosensors.

The predictive value of baseline NAA/Cr for treatment response of first-episode schizophrenia: A ¹H MRS study.

PubMed

Liu, Weibo; Yu, Hualiang; Jiang, Biao; Pan, Bing; Yu, Shaohua; Li, Huichun; Zheng, Leilei

2015-07-23

The study focused on the predictive value of baseline metabolite ratios in bilateral hippocampus of first-episode schizophrenia by using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H MRS). (1)H MRS data were acquired from 23 hallucination and 17 non-hallucination first-episode schizophrenia patients compared with 17 healthy participants. Clinical characteristics of patients were rated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) before and after 3-month treatment. The schizophrenia patients showed lower NAA/Cr ratio than healthy participants respectively (p=0.024; p=0.001), and non-hallucination patients had even lower NAA/Cr ratio than hallucination patients (p=0.033). After 3-month treatment, hallucination patients had greater improvement in negative symptoms than non-hallucination patients (p=0.018). The reduction of PANSS total score and negative factor score was positively correlated with the left NAA/Cr in both group patients (p<0.05). Given that the bilateral hippocampal baseline NAA/Cr had predictive value for the whole treatment response, and the left hippocampal NAA/Cr can predict the prognosis of negative symptoms during acute phase medication in first-episode schizophrenia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance-related increases in hippocampal N-acetylaspartate (NAA) induced by spatial navigation training are restricted to BDNF Val homozygotes.

PubMed

Lövdén, Martin; Schaefer, Sabine; Noack, Hannes; Kanowski, Martin; Kaufmann, Jörn; Tempelmann, Claus; Bodammer, Nils Christian; Kühn, Simone; Heinze, Hans-Jochen; Lindenberger, Ulman; Düzel, Emrah; Bäckman, Lars

2011-06-01

Recent evidence indicates experience-dependent brain volume changes in humans, but the functional and histological nature of such changes is unknown. Here, we report that adult men performing a cognitively demanding spatial navigation task every other day over 4 months display increases in hippocampal N-acetylaspartate (NAA) as measured with magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Unlike measures of brain volume, changes in NAA are sensitive to metabolic and functional aspects of neural and glia tissue and unlikely to reflect changes in microvasculature. Training-induced changes in NAA were, however, absent in carriers of the Met substitution in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene, which is known to reduce activity-dependent secretion of BDNF. Among BDNF Val homozygotes, increases in NAA were strongly related to the degree of practice-related improvement in navigation performance and normalized to pretraining levels 4 months after the last training session. We conclude that changes in demands on spatial navigation can alter hippocampal NAA concentrations, confirming epidemiological studies suggesting that mental experience may have direct effects on neural integrity and cognitive performance. BDNF genotype moderates these plastic changes, in line with the contention that gene-context interactions shape the ontogeny of complex phenotypes.

Molecular gated nanoporous anodic alumina for the detection of cocaine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ribes, Àngela; Xifré-Pérez, Elisabet; Aznar, Elena; Sancenón, Félix; Pardo, Teresa; Marsal, Lluís F.; Martínez-Máñez, Ramόn

2016-12-01

We present herein the use of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) as a suitable support to implement “molecular gates” for sensing applications. In our design, a NAA support is loaded with a fluorescent reporter (rhodamine B) and functionalized with a short single-stranded DNA. Then pores are blocked by the subsequent hybridisation of a specific cocaine aptamer. The response of the gated material was studied in aqueous solution. In a typical experiment, the support was immersed in hybridisation buffer solution in the absence or presence of cocaine. At certain times, the release of rhodamine B from pore voids was measured by fluorescence spectroscopy. The capped NAA support showed poor cargo delivery, but presence of cocaine in the solution selectively induced rhodamine B release. By this simple procedure a limit of detection as low as 5 × 10-7 M was calculated for cocaine. The gated NAA was successfully applied to detect cocaine in saliva samples and the possible re-use of the nanostructures was assessed. Based on these results, we believe that NAA could be a suitable support to prepare optical gated probes with a synergic combination of the favourable features of selected gated sensing systems and NAA.

Turkish adaptation and psychometric characteristics of the Nursing Authority and Autonomy Scale.

PubMed

Basaran Acil, Seher; Dinç, Leyla

2018-04-14

To adapt the Nursing Authority and Autonomy Scale (NAAS) into Turkish the Nursing Authority and Autonomy Scale (NAAS) to Turkish and assess its psychometric properties for Turkish nurses and nurse managers. The NAAS is a tool that specifically measures nursing authority and autonomy from the perspectives of nurses and nurse managers. The study sample consisted of 160 nurse managers and 266 staff nurses. Content validity was assessed using expert approval. Construct validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's α, and the test-retest reliability was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficients. The model achieved a good fit. The internal reliability of the NAAS' authority and autonomy in nursing practice and importance of nursing practice subscales were .84. The Cronbach's α of the instrument was .88. The test-retest scores within an interval of 3 weeks were statistically not significant. The Turkish version of the NAAS has good psychometric properties and this scale can be employed to measure nurses' authority and autonomy. Nurse managers and educators should use an appropriate scale such as NAAS in order to assess nurses' clinical authority and autonomy to improve patient outcomes and develop nurses. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Molecular gated nanoporous anodic alumina for the detection of cocaine.

PubMed

Ribes, Àngela; Xifré-Pérez, Elisabet; Aznar, Elena; Sancenón, Félix; Pardo, Teresa; Marsal, Lluís F; Martínez-Máñez, Ramόn

2016-12-07

We present herein the use of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) as a suitable support to implement "molecular gates" for sensing applications. In our design, a NAA support is loaded with a fluorescent reporter (rhodamine B) and functionalized with a short single-stranded DNA. Then pores are blocked by the subsequent hybridisation of a specific cocaine aptamer. The response of the gated material was studied in aqueous solution. In a typical experiment, the support was immersed in hybridisation buffer solution in the absence or presence of cocaine. At certain times, the release of rhodamine B from pore voids was measured by fluorescence spectroscopy. The capped NAA support showed poor cargo delivery, but presence of cocaine in the solution selectively induced rhodamine B release. By this simple procedure a limit of detection as low as 5 × 10 -7  M was calculated for cocaine. The gated NAA was successfully applied to detect cocaine in saliva samples and the possible re-use of the nanostructures was assessed. Based on these results, we believe that NAA could be a suitable support to prepare optical gated probes with a synergic combination of the favourable features of selected gated sensing systems and NAA.

Molecular gated nanoporous anodic alumina for the detection of cocaine

PubMed Central

Ribes, Àngela; Xifré -Pérez, Elisabet; Aznar, Elena; Sancenón, Félix; Pardo, Teresa; Marsal, Lluís F.; Martínez-Máñez, Ramόn

2016-01-01

We present herein the use of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) as a suitable support to implement “molecular gates” for sensing applications. In our design, a NAA support is loaded with a fluorescent reporter (rhodamine B) and functionalized with a short single-stranded DNA. Then pores are blocked by the subsequent hybridisation of a specific cocaine aptamer. The response of the gated material was studied in aqueous solution. In a typical experiment, the support was immersed in hybridisation buffer solution in the absence or presence of cocaine. At certain times, the release of rhodamine B from pore voids was measured by fluorescence spectroscopy. The capped NAA support showed poor cargo delivery, but presence of cocaine in the solution selectively induced rhodamine B release. By this simple procedure a limit of detection as low as 5 × 10−7 M was calculated for cocaine. The gated NAA was successfully applied to detect cocaine in saliva samples and the possible re-use of the nanostructures was assessed. Based on these results, we believe that NAA could be a suitable support to prepare optical gated probes with a synergic combination of the favourable features of selected gated sensing systems and NAA. PMID:27924950

The boosted biomass and lipid accumulation in Chlorella vulgaris by supplementation of synthetic phytohormone analogs.

PubMed

Liu, Tingting; Liu, Fei; Wang, Chao; Wang, Zhenyao; Li, Yuqin

2017-05-01

This study attempted at maximizing biomass and lipid accumulation in Chlorella vulgaris by supplementation of natural abscisic acid (ABA) or synthetic 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) hormone analogs. Amongst three tested additives, NAA-treatment performed remarkable promoting effect on cell growth and lipid biosynthesis. The favorable lipid productivity (418.6mg/L/d) of NAA-treated cells showed 1.48 and 2.24 times more than that of 2,4-D and ABA. NAA-treatment also positively modified the proportions of saturated (C16:0 and C18:0) and monounsaturated fatty acids (C18:1) which were prone to high-quality biofuels-making. Further, NAA-treatment manipulated endogenous phytohormones metabolism leading to the elevated levels of indole-3-acetic acid, jasmonic acid, and salicylic acid and such hormone accumulation might be indispensable for signal transduction in regulating cell growth and lipid biosynthesis in microalgae. In addition, the economic-feasibility and eco-friendly estimation of NAA additive indicated the higher possibilities in developing affordable and scalable microalgal lipids for biofuels. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Magnetically separable nanocomposites with photocatalytic activity under visible light for the selective transformation of biomass-derived platform molecules

EPA Science Inventory

Novel magnetically separable TiO2-guanidine-(Ni,Co)Fe2O4 nanomaterials were prepared and characterised by a series of techniques including XRD, SEM, TEM, N2 physisorption as well as XPS and subsequently tested for their photocatalytic activities in the selective transformation of...

VERUCLAY – a new type of photo-adsorbent active in the visible light range: modification of montmorillonite surface with organic surfactant

EPA Science Inventory

Montmorillonite K10 was treated with VeruSOL-3, a biodegradable and food-grade surfactant mixture of coconut oil, castor oil and citrus extracts, to manufacture a benign catalytic adsorbent that is active in the visible light. Veruclay was characterized by SEM, XRD, TGA, UVDRS, a...

Laser-induced Multi-energy Processing in Diamond Growth

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-05-01

microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X - ray (EDX) measurements, Drs. Yi Liu and Shah Valloppilly from Nebraska Center for Materials and Nanoscience...NCMN) at UNL for help on X - Ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, and Professor Steve W. Martin and Dr. Young Sik Kim from the Department of Material...spectroscopy and X - ray diffraction ................... 62 4.4 Conclusions

Removal of Micrometer Size Morphological Defects and Enhancement of Ultraviolet Emission by Thermal Treatment of Ga-Doped ZnO Nanostructures

PubMed Central

Manzoor, Umair; Kim, Do K.; Islam, Mohammad; Bhatti, Arshad S.

2014-01-01

Mixed morphologies of Ga-doped Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanostructures are synthesized by vapor transport method. Systematic scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies of different morphologies, after periodic heat treatments, gives direct evidence of sublimation. SEM micrographs give direct evidence that morphological defects of nanostructures can be removed by annealing. Ultra Violet (UV) and visible emission depends strongly on the annealing temperatures and luminescent efficiency of UV emission is enhanced significantly with each subsequent heat treatment. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) results suggest that crystal quality improved by annealing and phase separation may occur at high temperatures. PMID:24489725

Removal of micrometer size morphological defects and enhancement of ultraviolet emission by thermal treatment of Ga-doped ZnO nanostructures.

PubMed

Manzoor, Umair; Kim, Do K; Islam, Mohammad; Bhatti, Arshad S

2014-01-01

Mixed morphologies of Ga-doped Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanostructures are synthesized by vapor transport method. Systematic scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies of different morphologies, after periodic heat treatments, gives direct evidence of sublimation. SEM micrographs give direct evidence that morphological defects of nanostructures can be removed by annealing. Ultra Violet (UV) and visible emission depends strongly on the annealing temperatures and luminescent efficiency of UV emission is enhanced significantly with each subsequent heat treatment. X-Ray diffraction (XRD) results suggest that crystal quality improved by annealing and phase separation may occur at high temperatures.

Antibacterial effect of novel synthesized sulfated β-cyclodextrin crosslinked cotton fabric and its improved antibacterial activities with ZnO, TiO2 and Ag nanoparticles coating.

PubMed

Selvam, S; Rajiv Gandhi, R; Suresh, J; Gowri, S; Ravikumar, S; Sundrarajan, M

2012-09-15

Sulfated β-cyclodextrin was synthesized from sulfonation of β-cyclodextrin and sulfated polymer was crosslinked with cotton fabric using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid as crosslinker. ZnO, TiO(2) and Ag nanoparticles were prepared and characterized by XRD, UV, DLS, SEM and PSA. The prepared nanoparticles were coated on crosslinked cotton fabric. The crosslinking and nanoparticles coating effects of cotton fabrics were studied by FTIR and SEM analysis. The antibacterial test was done against gram positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram negative Escherichia coli bacterium. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of stoichiometry on magnetic and transport properties in polycrystalline Y2Ir2O7

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dwivedi, Vinod Kumar; Mukhopadhyay, Soumik

2018-05-01

In this paper we discuss synthesis of polycrystalline Y2Ir2O7 by solid state reaction route. XRD analysis shows deviation from stoichiometry which is also confirmed by SEM-EDX analysis. SEM analysis indicates average particle size ranging from 100 nm to 800 µm. EDX analysis gives clear evidence for deviation of stoichiometry of the product. Magnetic analysis is indicating effect of stoichiometry and showing ferromagnetic interaction unlike antiferromagnetic feature. Electrical resistivity is showing similar behavior as reported earlier and reveals no effect of different size of grains or grain boundaries from room temperature to 125 K.

Impedance spectroscopy of the oxide films formed during high temperature oxidation of a cobalt-plated ferritic alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velraj, S.; Zhu, J. H.; Painter, A. S.; Du, S. W.; Li, Y. T.

2014-02-01

Impedance spectroscopy was used to evaluate the oxide films formed on cobalt-coated Crofer 22 APU ferritic stainless steel after thermal oxidation at 800 °C in air for different times (i.e. 2, 50, 100 and 500 h). Impedance spectra of the oxide films exhibited two or three semicircles depending on the oxidation time, which correspond to the presence of two or three individual oxide layers. Coupled with scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the individual oxide layer corresponding to each semicircle was determined unambiguously. Impedance spectrum analysis of the oxide films formed on the sample after thermal exposure at 800 °C in air for 2 h led to the identification of the low-frequency and high-frequency semicircles as being from Cr2O3 and Co3O4, respectively. SEM/EDS and XRD analysis of the 500-h sample clearly revealed the presence of three oxide layers, analyzed to be Co3-xCrxO4, CoCr2O4, and Cr2O3. Although the SEM images of the 50-h and 100-h samples did not clearly show the CoCr2O4 layer, impedance plots implied their presence. The oxide scales were assigned to their respective semicircles and the electrical properties of Co3-xCrxO4, CoCr2O4 and Cr2O3 were determined from the impedance data.

Biocompatible polyurethane/thiacalix[4]arenes functionalized Fe3O4 magnetic nanocomposites: Synthesis and properties.

PubMed

Mohammadi, Abbas; Barikani, Mehdi; Lakouraj, Moslem Mansour

2016-09-01

In this study, a series of magnetic polyurethane/Fe3O4 elastomer nanocomposites were prepared by covalently embedding novel thiacalix[4]arenes (TC4As) functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (TC4As-Fe3O4) which contain macrocycles with reactive hydroxyl groups. Surface functionalization of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with TC4As macrocycles as unique reactive surface modifier not only gives specific characteristics to Fe3O4 nanoparticles but also improves the interphase interaction between nanoparticles and the polyurethane matrices through covalent attachment of polymer chains to nanoparticle surfaces. The novel synthesized TC4As-Fe3O4 nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, VSM and SEM analysis. Furthermore, the effect of functionalization of Fe3O4 nanoparticles on the various properties of resulting nanocomposites was studied by XRD, TGA, DMTA, SEM, and a universal tensile tester. It was found that the functionalization of nanoparticles with TC4As affords better mechanical and thermal properties to polyurethane nanocomposites in comparison with unmodified nanoparticles. The SEM analysis showed finer dispersion of TC4As-Fe3O4 nanoparticles than unmodified Fe3O4 nanoparticles within the polyurethane matrices, which arising from formation of covalent bonding between TC4As functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles and polyurethane matrices. Moreover, the investigation of in vitro biocompatibility of novel nanocomposites showed that these samples are excellent candidate for biomedical use. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Macroscopic and microscopic variation in recovered magnesium phosphate materials: implications for phosphorus removal processes and product re-use.

PubMed

Massey, Michael S; Ippolito, James A; Davis, Jessica G; Sheffield, Ron E

2010-02-01

Phosphorus (P) recovery and re-use will become increasingly important for water quality protection and sustainable nutrient cycling as environmental regulations become stricter and global P reserves decline. The objective of this study was to examine and characterize several magnesium phosphates recovered from actual wastewater under field conditions. Three types of particles were examined including crystalline magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate (struvite) recovered from dairy wastewater, crystalline magnesium ammonium phosphate hydrate (dittmarite) recovered from a food processing facility, and a heterogeneous product also recovered from dairy wastewater. The particles were analyzed using "wet" chemical techniques, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy in conjunction with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The struvite crystals had regular and consistent shape, size, and structure, and SEM-EDS analysis clearly showed the struvite crystals as a surface precipitate on calcium phosphate seed material. In contrast, the dittmarite crystals showed no evidence of seed material, and were not regular in size or shape. The XRD analysis identified no crystalline magnesium phosphates in the heterogeneous product and indicated the presence of sand particles. However, magnesium phosphate precipitates on calcium phosphate seed material were observed in this product under SEM-EDS examination. These substantial variations in the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics of magnesium phosphates recovered under field conditions could affect their potential for beneficial re-use and underscore the need to develop recovery processes that result in a uniform, consistent product.

APOLLO CREW (NAA) - ASTRONAUT EDWARD H. WHITE - TRAINING

NASA Image and Video Library

1966-06-24

The members of the prime crew of the first manned Apollo space flight Apollo/Saturn 204 (AS-204) inspect spacecraft equipment during a tour of North American Aviation's (NAA) Downey facility. In the foreground, left to right, are astronauts Roger B. Chaffee, Virgil I. Grissom, and Edward H. White, II. NAA engineers and technicians are in the background. NORTH AMERICAN AVIATION, INC., DOWNEY, CA B&W

NAA For Human Serum Analysis: Comparison With Conventional Analyses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oliveira, Laura C.; Zamboni, Cibele B.; Medeiros, Jose A. G.

2010-08-04

Instrumental and Comparator methods of Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) were applied to determine elements of clinical relevancy in serum samples of adult population (Sao Paulo city, Brazil). A comparison with the conventional analyses, Colorimetric for calcium, Titrymetric for chlorine and Ion Specific Electrode for sodium and potassium determination were also performed permitting a discussion about the performance of NAA methods for clinical chemistry research.

Transcriptomics of shading-induced and NAA-induced abscission in apple (Malus domestica) reveals a shared pathway involving reduced photosynthesis, alterations in carbohydrate transport and signaling and hormone crosstalk

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), a synthetic auxin analogue, is widely used as an effective thinner in apple orchards. When applied shortly after fruit set, some fruit abscise leading to improved fruit size and quality. However, the thinning results of NAA are inconsistent and difficult to predict, s...

The Synthesis and Photoluminescent Properties of CaMoO₄:Eu³⁺ Nanocrystals by a Soft Chemical Route.

PubMed

Li, Fuhai; Yu, Lixin; Sun, Jiaju; Li, Songchu; Wei, Shuilin

2017-04-01

In this paper, the CaMoO4:Eu3+ phosphors were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method assisted by the citric acid as the surfactant, and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and fluorescent spectrophotometry. The results of XRD show that the as-prepared samples are single phase. The process of the Ostwald ripening is controlled by the content of the citric acid in the hydrothermal reaction. The pH value of the precursor affects the shift of the charge transition band (CTB) in the excitation spectra. The reaction condition can strongly affect the luminescent intensity of the samples.

The luminescence properties of nanocrystalline phosphors Mg2SiO4:Eu3+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolomytsev, A. Y.; Mamonova, D. V.; Manshina, A. A.; Kolesnikov, I. E.

2017-11-01

Nanocrystalline Eu3+-doped Mg2SiO4 powders were prepared with combined Pechini-solid phase synthesis. The structural properties were investigated with XRD, SEM and Raman spectroscopy. XRD pattern indicated that Mg2SiO4:Eu3+ were obtained with formation of other phase: MgO. Raman spectrum revealed good homogeneity and crystallinity of synthesized nanopowders. The luminescence properties were studied with measurement of excitation and emission spectra and decay curves. The effect of Eu3+ concentration on 5D0 level lifetime was studied. Most probably, the observed shortening of 5D0 level lifetime with Eu3+ concentration is caused by increase of nonradiative process probability.

Solution combustion method for synthesis of nanostructured hydroxyapatite, fluorapatite and chlorapatite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Junjie; Dong, Xiaochen; Bian, Mengmeng; Zhao, Junfeng; Zhang, Yao; Sun, Yue; Chen, JianHua; Wang, XuHong

2014-09-01

Hydroxyapatite (HAP), fluorapatite (Fap) and chlorapatite (Clap) were prepared by solution combustion method with further annealing at 800 °C. The characterization and structural features of the synthesized powders were evaluated by the powder X-ray diffraction (XRD, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Characterization results from XRD and Rietveld analysis revealed that OH- in the HAP lattice were gradually substituted with the increase of F- and Cl- content and totally substituted at the molar concentration of 0.28 and 0.6, respectively. The results from FI-IR have also confirmed the incorporation of substituted anions in the apatite structure.

Effect of occupational manganese exposure on the central nervous system of welders: 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy and MRI findings.

PubMed

Kim, Eun A; Cheong, Hae-Kwan; Choi, Dae Seob; Sakong, Joon; Ryoo, Jae Wook; Park, Injeong; Kang, Dong Mug

2007-03-01

This study investigated the relationship between long-term occupational manganese (Mn) exposure on the regional Mn concentration in the brain, neuronal loss, and neurobehavioral effects on welders. 1H MRS of the basal ganglia (BG) was performed on 20 male welders and 10 age- and gender-matched, non-office, control workers in a shipyard to assess the metabolic change, and the N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr), choline (Cho)/Cr and NAA/Cho ratios, by the level of Mn exposure. We also assessed the signal intensity of T1-weighted image of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on globus pallidus (GP) compared to that of the frontal white matter (pallidal index, PI). The welders had significantly higher signal intensity than the controls. PI showed a significant dose-response relationship with cumulative exposure index (CEI) (r=0.54, p=0.002). CEI and PI showed different relationships with NAA/Cr according to smoking status, and the correlation was evident only in non-smokers (r=-0.73 and -0.57, respectively). There were no significant differences between the welders and the controls in NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr, and NAA/Cho ratios obtained from BG. CEI was positively correlated with simple reaction time. PI was positively correlated with mean sway (MSWAY), sway area (SWAYA), and sway intensity (SWAYI), and negatively correlated with maximum frequency (MAXF). After categorizing the subjects into two groups according to NAA/Cr ratio level, the low NAA/Cr ratio group showed significantly lower score on digit span backward and significantly higher score on MSWAY, SWAYA and SWAYI in regression analysis than the high NAA/Cr ratio group. We speculated that the NAA/Cr ratio of MRS in BG seems to reflect the cumulative effect of Mn exposure on the human brain. Due to uneven distribution of smoking among the welders and the controls, in addition to the small number of subjects in our study, our findings are needed further studies with a larger number of subjects.

Canavan disease. Analysis of the nature of the metabolic lesions responsible for development of the observed clinical symptoms.

PubMed

Baslow, M H; Resnik, T R

1997-10-01

Canavan disease (CD), a rare recessive autosomal genetic disorder, is characterized by early onset and a progressive spongy degeneration of the brain involving loss of the axon's myelin sheath. After a relatively normal birth, homozygous individuals generally develop clinical symptoms within months, and usually die within several years of the onset of the disease. A biochemical defect associated with this disease results in reduced activity of the enzyme N-acetyl-L-aspartate amidohydrolase (aspartoacylase) and affected individuals have less ability to hydrolyze N-acetyl-L-asparate (NAA) in brain and other tissues. As a result of aspartoacylase deficiency, NAA builds up in extracellular fluids (ECF) and is excreted in urine. From an analysis of the NAA biochemical cycle in various tissues of many vertebrate species, evidence is presented that there may be two distinct NAA circulation patterns related to aspartoacylase activity. These include near-field circulations in the brain and the eye, and a far-field systemic circulation involving the liver and kidney, the purpose of which in each case is apparently to regenerate aspartate (Asp) in order for it to be recycled into NAA as part of the still unknown function of the NAA cycle. Based on the authors' analysis, they have also identified several metabolic outcomes of the genetic biochemical aspartoacylase lesion. First, there is a daily induced Asp deficit in the central nervous system (CNS) that is at least six times the static level of available free Asp. Second, there is up to a 50-fold drop in the intercompartmental NAA gradient, and third, the ability of the brain to perform its normal intercompartmental cycling of NAA to Asp is terminated, and as a result, the only remaining long-term source of Asp for NAA synthesis is via nutritional supplementation of Asp or its metabolic precursors. Finally, the authors identify a potential maternal-fetal interaction that may be responsible for observed normal fetal development in utero, and that provides a rationale for, and suggests how, CD might respond to far-field nutritional, transplantation, or genetic engineering techniques to alter the course of the disease.

A document review to characterize Atomic International SNAP fuels shipped to INEL 1966--1973

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wahnschaffe, S.D.; Lords, R.E.; Kneff, D.W.

1995-09-01

This report provides the results of a document search and review study to obtain information on the spent fuels for the following six Nuclear Auxiliary Power (SNAP) reactor cores now stored at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL): SNAP-2 Experimental Reactor, SNAP-2 Development Reactor, SNAP-10A Ground Test Reactor, SNAP-8 Experimental Reactor, SNAP-8 Development Reactor, and Shield Test Reactor. The report also covers documentation on SNAP fuel materials from four in-pile materials tests: NAA-82-1, NAA-115-2, NAA-117-1, and NAA-121. Pieces of these fuel materials are also stored at INEL as part of the SNAP fuel shipments.

Realisation and advanced engineering of true optical rugate filters based on nanoporous anodic alumina by sinusoidal pulse anodisation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, Abel; Yoo, Jeong Ha; Rohatgi, Charu Vashisth; Kumeria, Tushar; Wang, Ye; Losic, Dusan

2016-01-01

This study is the first realisation of true optical rugate filters (RFs) based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) by sinusoidal waves. An innovative and rationally designed sinusoidal pulse anodisation (SPA) approach in galvanostatic mode is used with the aim of engineering the effective medium of NAA in a sinusoidal fashion. A precise control over the different anodisation parameters (i.e. anodisation period, anodisation amplitude, anodisation offset, number of pulses, anodisation temperature and pore widening time) makes it possible to engineer the characteristic reflection peaks and interferometric colours of NAA-RFs, which can be finely tuned across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. The effect of the aforementioned anodisation parameters on the photonic properties of NAA-RFs (i.e. characteristic reflection peaks and interferometric colours) is systematically assessed in order to establish for the first time a comprehensive rationale towards NAA-RFs with fully controllable photonic properties. The experimental results are correlated with a theoretical model (Looyenga-Landau-Lifshitz - LLL), demonstrating that the effective medium of these photonic nanostructures can be precisely described by the effective medium approximation. NAA-RFs are also demonstrated as chemically selective photonic platforms combined with reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). The resulting optical sensing system is used to assess the reversible binding affinity between a model drug (i.e. indomethacin) and human serum albumin (HSA) in real-time. Our results demonstrate that this system can be used to determine the overall pharmacokinetic profile of drugs, which is a critical aspect to be considered for the implementation of efficient medical therapies.This study is the first realisation of true optical rugate filters (RFs) based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) by sinusoidal waves. An innovative and rationally designed sinusoidal pulse anodisation (SPA) approach in galvanostatic mode is used with the aim of engineering the effective medium of NAA in a sinusoidal fashion. A precise control over the different anodisation parameters (i.e. anodisation period, anodisation amplitude, anodisation offset, number of pulses, anodisation temperature and pore widening time) makes it possible to engineer the characteristic reflection peaks and interferometric colours of NAA-RFs, which can be finely tuned across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum. The effect of the aforementioned anodisation parameters on the photonic properties of NAA-RFs (i.e. characteristic reflection peaks and interferometric colours) is systematically assessed in order to establish for the first time a comprehensive rationale towards NAA-RFs with fully controllable photonic properties. The experimental results are correlated with a theoretical model (Looyenga-Landau-Lifshitz - LLL), demonstrating that the effective medium of these photonic nanostructures can be precisely described by the effective medium approximation. NAA-RFs are also demonstrated as chemically selective photonic platforms combined with reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). The resulting optical sensing system is used to assess the reversible binding affinity between a model drug (i.e. indomethacin) and human serum albumin (HSA) in real-time. Our results demonstrate that this system can be used to determine the overall pharmacokinetic profile of drugs, which is a critical aspect to be considered for the implementation of efficient medical therapies. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Table containing a comprehensive summary of the effect of the different anodisation parameters on the characteristic reflection peaks of NAA-RFs and further information on the relationship between glucose concentration and its refractive index and examples of ΔλPeak calculation for establishing the binding affinity between HSA and indomethacin molecules. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr05462a

Local and downstream effects of excitotoxic lesions in the rat medial prefrontal cortex on In vivo 1H-MRS signals.

PubMed

Roffman, J L; Lipska, B K; Bertolino, A; Van Gelderen, P; Olson, A W; Khaing, Z Z; Weinberger, D R

2000-04-01

The rat medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) regulates subcortical dopamine transmission via projections to the striatum and ventral tegmental area. We used in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) at 4.7 T to determine whether excitotoxic lesions of the mPFC result in alterations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), a marker of neuronal integrity, both locally and downstream in the striatum. Lesioned rats exhibited persistent reductions of NAA and other metabolites within the prefrontal cortex; selective reductions of NAA were seen in the striatum, but not in the parietal cortex. Consistent with earlier reports, lesioned rats exhibited a transient enhancement in amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion. Prefrontal NAA losses correlated with lesion extent. In the striatum, while there was no change in tissue volume, expression of striatal glutamic acid decarboxylase-67 mRNA was significantly reduced. In vivo NAA levels thus appear sensitive to both local and downstream alterations in neuronal integrity, and may signal meaningful effects at cellular and behavioral levels.

Spectroscopic imaging of the pilocarpine model of human epilepsy suggests that early NAA reduction predicts epilepsy.

PubMed

Gomes, W A; Lado, F A; de Lanerolle, N C; Takahashi, K; Pan, C; Hetherington, H P

2007-08-01

Reduced hippocampal N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) is commonly observed in patients with advanced, chronic temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). It is unclear, however, whether an NAA deficit is also present during the clinically quiescent latent period that characterizes early TLE. This question has important implications for the use of MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in the early identification of patients at risk for TLE. To determine whether NAA is diminished during the latent period, we obtained high-resolution (1)H spectroscopic imaging during the latent period of the rat pilocarpine model of human TLE. We used actively detuneable surface reception and volume transmission coils to enhance sensitivity and a semiautomated voxel shifting method to accurately position voxels within the hippocampi. During the latent period, 2 and 7 d following pilocarpine treatment, hippocampal NAA was significantly reduced by 27.5 +/- 6.9% (P < 0.001) and 17.3 +/- 6.9% (P < 0.001) at 2 and 7 d, respectively. Quantitative estimates of neuronal loss at 7 d (2.3 +/- 7.7% reduction; P = 0.58, not significant) demonstrate that the NAA deficit is not due to neuron loss and therefore likely represents metabolic impairment of hippocampal neurons during the latent phase. Therefore, spectroscopic imaging provides an early marker for metabolic dysfunction in this model of TLE.

Rational Design of Photonic Dust from Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Films: A Versatile Photonic Nanotool for Visual Sensing

PubMed Central

Chen, Yuting; Santos, Abel; Wang, Ye; Kumeria, Tushar; Ho, Daena; Li, Junsheng; Wang, Changhai; Losic, Dusan

2015-01-01

Herein, we present a systematic study on the development, optimisation and applicability of interferometrically coloured distributed Bragg reflectors based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA-DBRs) in the form of films and nanoporous microparticles as visual/colorimetric analytical tools. Firstly, we synthesise a complete palette of NAA-DBRs by galvanostatic pulse anodisation approach, in which the current density is altered in a periodic fashion in order to engineer the effective medium of the resulting photonic films in depth. NAA-DBR photonic films feature vivid colours that can be tuned across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum by structural engineering. Secondly, the effective medium of the resulting photonic films is assessed systematically by visual analysis and reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) in order to establish the most optimal nanoporous platforms to develop visual/colorimetric tools. Then, we demonstrate the applicability of NAA-DBR photonic films as a chemically selective sensing platform for visual detection of mercury(II) ions. Finally, we generate a new nanomaterial, so-called photonic dust, by breaking down NAA-DBRs films into nanoporous microparticles. The resulting microparticles (μP-NAA-DBRs) display vivid colours and are sensitive towards changes in their effective medium, opening new opportunities for developing advanced photonic nanotools for a broad range of applications. PMID:26245759

Rational Design of Photonic Dust from Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Films: A Versatile Photonic Nanotool for Visual Sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuting; Santos, Abel; Wang, Ye; Kumeria, Tushar; Ho, Daena; Li, Junsheng; Wang, Changhai; Losic, Dusan

2015-08-01

Herein, we present a systematic study on the development, optimisation and applicability of interferometrically coloured distributed Bragg reflectors based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA-DBRs) in the form of films and nanoporous microparticles as visual/colorimetric analytical tools. Firstly, we synthesise a complete palette of NAA-DBRs by galvanostatic pulse anodisation approach, in which the current density is altered in a periodic fashion in order to engineer the effective medium of the resulting photonic films in depth. NAA-DBR photonic films feature vivid colours that can be tuned across the UV-visible-NIR spectrum by structural engineering. Secondly, the effective medium of the resulting photonic films is assessed systematically by visual analysis and reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) in order to establish the most optimal nanoporous platforms to develop visual/colorimetric tools. Then, we demonstrate the applicability of NAA-DBR photonic films as a chemically selective sensing platform for visual detection of mercury(II) ions. Finally, we generate a new nanomaterial, so-called photonic dust, by breaking down NAA-DBRs films into nanoporous microparticles. The resulting microparticles (μP-NAA-DBRs) display vivid colours and are sensitive towards changes in their effective medium, opening new opportunities for developing advanced photonic nanotools for a broad range of applications.

Structural Engineering of Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Photonic Crystals by Sawtooth-like Pulse Anodization.

PubMed

Law, Cheryl Suwen; Santos, Abel; Nemati, Mahdieh; Losic, Dusan

2016-06-01

This study presents a sawtooth-like pulse anodization approach aiming to create a new type of photonic crystal structure based on nanoporous anodic alumina. This nanofabrication approach enables the engineering of the effective medium of nanoporous anodic alumina in a sawtooth-like manner with precision. The manipulation of various anodization parameters such as anodization period, anodization amplitude, number of anodization pulses, ramp ratio and pore widening time allows a precise control and fine-tuning of the optical properties (i.e., characteristic transmission peaks and interferometric colors) exhibited by nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals (NAA-PCs). The effect of these anodization parameters on the photonic properties of NAA-PCs is systematically evaluated for the establishment of a fabrication methodology toward NAA-PCs with tunable optical properties. The effective medium of the resulting NAA-PCs is demonstrated to be optimal for the development of optical sensing platforms in combination with reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). This application is demonstrated by monitoring in real-time the formation of monolayers of thiol molecules (11-mercaptoundecanoic acid) on the surface of gold-coated NAA-PCs. The obtained results reveal that the adsorption mechanism between thiol molecules and gold-coated NAA-PCs follows a Langmuir isotherm model, indicating a monolayer sorption mechanism.

Neurochemistry in shiverer mouse depicted on MR spectroscopy.

PubMed

Takanashi, Jun-ichi; Nitta, Nobuhiro; Iwasaki, Nobuaki; Saito, Shigeyoshi; Tanaka, Ryuta; Barkovich, A James; Aoki, Ichio

2014-06-01

To evaluate the neurochemical changes associated with hypomyelination, especially to clarify whether increased total N-acetylaspartate (tNAA) with decreased choline (Cho) observed in the thalamus of msd mice with the plp1 mutation is a common finding for hypomyelinating disorders. We performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and proton MR spectroscopy ((1) H-MRS) of the thalamus and cortex of postnatal 12-week shiverer mice devoid of myelin basic protein (mbp), heterozygous and wild-type mice with a 7.0T magnet. Luxol Fast Blue staining and immunohistochemical analysis with anti-Mbp, Gfap, Olig2, and NeuN antibodies were also performed. In the thalamus, decreased Cho and normal tNAA were observed in shiverer mice. In the cortex, tNAA, Cho, and glutamate were decreased in shiverer mice. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis of shiverer mice brains revealed hypomyelination in the thalamus, white matter, and cortex; astrogliosis and an increased number of total oligodendrocytes in the white matter; and a decreased number of neurons in the cortex. The reduction of Cho on (1) H-MRS might be a common marker for hypomyelinating disorders. A normal tNAA level in the thalamus of shiverer mice might be explained by the presence of mature oligodendrocytes, which enable neuron-to-oligodendrocyte NAA transport or NAA catabolism. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Alkamid database: Chemistry, occurrence and functionality of plant N-alkylamides.

PubMed

Boonen, Jente; Bronselaer, Antoon; Nielandt, Joachim; Veryser, Lieselotte; De Tré, Guy; De Spiegeleer, Bart

2012-08-01

N-Alkylamides (NAAs) are a promising group of bioactive compounds, which are anticipated to act as important lead compounds for plant protection and biocidal products, functional food, cosmeceuticals and drugs in the next decennia. These molecules, currently found in more than 25 plant families and with a wide structural diversity, exert a variety of biological-pharmacological effects and are of high ethnopharmacological importance. However, information is scattered in literature, with different, often unstandardized, pharmacological methodologies being used. Therefore, a comprehensive NAA database (acronym: Alkamid) was constructed to collect the available structural and functional NAA data, linked to their occurrence in plants (family, tribe, species, genus). For loading information in the database, literature data was gathered over the period 1950-2010, by using several search engines. In order to represent the collected information about NAAs, the plants in which they occur and the functionalities for which they have been examined, a relational database is constructed and implemented on a MySQL back-end. The database is supported by describing the NAA plant-, functional- and chemical-space. The chemical space includes a NAA classification, according to their fatty acid and amine structures. The Alkamid database (publicly available on the website http://alkamid.ugent.be/) is not only a central information point, but can also function as a useful tool to prioritize the NAA choice in the evaluation of their functionality, to perform data mining leading to quantitative structure-property relationships (QSPRs), functionality comparisons, clustering, plant biochemistry and taxonomic evaluations. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The influence of naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and coumarin on flavonoid production by fungus Phellinus sp.: modeling of production kinetic profiles.

PubMed

Ma, Xiao-Kui; Li, Le; Peterson, Eric Charles; Ruan, Tingting; Duan, Xiaoyi

2015-11-01

For the purpose of improving the fungal production of flavonoids, the influence of naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and coumarin on flavonoid production by fungus Phellinus sp. P0988 was investigated by developing the corresponding kinetics of flavonoid production in a 7-L bioreactor. Phellinus sp. was confirmed to form flavonoids in pellets and broth when cultivated in basic medium, and the optimum concentration of NAA and coumarin in medium for flavonoid production were determined to be 0.03 and 0.02 g/L, respectively. The developed unstructured mathematical models were in good agreement with the experimental results with respect to flavonoid production kinetic profiles with NAA and coumarin supplementation at optimum levels and revealed significant accuracy in terms of statistical consistency and robustness. Analysis of these kinetic processes indicated that NAA and coumarin supplementations imposed a stronger positive influence on flavonoid production and substrate consumption compared to their effects on cell growth. The separate addition of NAA and coumarin resulted in enhancements in final product accumulation and productivity, achieving final flavonoid concentrations of 3.60 and 2.75 g/L, respectively, and glucose consumption showed a significant decrease compared to the non-supplemented control as well. Also, the separate presence of NAA and coumarin respectively decreased maintenance coefficients (M s) from 2.48 in the control to 1.39 and 0.22, representing decreases of 43.9 and 91.1 %, respectively. The current study is the first known application of mathematical kinetic models to explore the influence of medium components adding on flavonoid production by fungi.

Compound-specific amino acid δ15N patterns in marine algae: Tracer potential for cyanobacterial vs. eukaryotic organic nitrogen sources in the ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCarthy, Matthew D.; Lehman, Jennifer; Kudela, Raphael

2013-02-01

Stable nitrogen isotopic analysis of individual amino acids (δ15N-AA) has unique potential to elucidate the complexities of food webs, track heterotrophic transformations, and understand diagenesis of organic nitrogen (ON). While δ15N-AA patterns of autotrophs have been shown to be generally similar, prior work has also suggested that differences may exist between cyanobacteria and eukaryotic algae. However, δ15N-AA patterns in differing oceanic algal groups have never been closely examined. The overarching goals of this study were first to establish a more quantitative understanding of algal δ15N-AA patterns, and second to examine whether δ15N-AA patterns have potential as a new tracer for distinguishing prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic N sources. We measured δ15N-AA from prokaryotic and eukaryotic phytoplankton cultures and used a complementary set of statistical approaches (simple normalization, regression-derived fractionation factors, and multivariate analyses) to test for variations. A generally similar δ15N-AA pattern was confirmed for all algae, however significant AA-specific variation was also consistently identified between the two groups. The relative δ15N fractionation of Glx (glutamine + glutamic acid combined) vs. total proteinaceous N appeared substantially different, which we hypothesize could be related to differing enzymatic forms. In addition, the several other AA (most notably glycine and leucine) appeared to have strong biomarker potential. Finally, we observed that overall patterns of δ15N values in algae correspond well with the Trophic vs. Source-AA division now commonly used to describe variable AA δ15N changes with trophic transfer, suggesting a common mechanistic basis. Overall, these results show that autotrophic δ15N-AA patterns can differ between major algal evolutionary groupings for many AA. The statistically significant multivariate results represent a first approach for testing ideas about relative eukaryotic vs. prokaryotic ON sources in the sea.

Regional metabolic changes in the hippocampus and posterior cingulate area detected with 3-Tesla magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Wang, Zhiqun; Zhao, Cheng; Yu, Lei; Zhou, Weidong; Li, Kuncheng

2009-04-01

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) plays an important role in early diagnosis of Alzheimer disease (AD). There are many reports on MRS studies among individuals with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, very few studies have compared spectroscopic data of different limbic regions among AD and MCI subjects. To compare metabolite changes of different regions in the brain of AD and MCI patients by using 3.0 T short-echo-time MRS. Metabolite ratios in the hippocampus and posterior cingulate area were compared in a group of patients with AD (n=16), MCI (n=16), and normal subjects as a control group (n=16). Clinical neuropsychological tests were measured in all subjects. In the hippocampus, there were significant differences in N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr), myo-inositol (mI)/Cr, and mI/NAA ratios among the three groups. However, there were no significant differences in choline (Cho)/Cr ratio among the three groups. In the posterior cingulate area, there were no significant differences in the NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr, and mI/Cr ratios among the three groups. However, there were significant differences in mI/NAA ratio between patients with AD and the control group, and between the AD and MCI groups. In addition, there was significant correlation between mI/NAA ratio and Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) score in subjects with AD and MCI. The study reveals that the elevation of mI/NAA ratio in the hippocampus is more significant than that in the posterior cingulate area, which corresponds to the pathologic procession of AD. The ratios of mI/NAA in the hippocampus and in the posterior cingulate area together provide valuable discrimination among the three groups (AD, MCI, and controls). There is a significant correlation between mI/NAA ratio and cognitive decline.

Adequacy of surface analytical tools for studying the tribology of ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sliney, H. E.

1986-01-01

Surface analytical tools are very beneficial in tribological studies of ceramics. Traditional methods of optical microscopy, XRD, XRF, and SEM should be combined with newer surface sensitive techniques especially AES and XPS. ISS and SIMS can also be useful in providing additional compositon details. Tunneling microscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy are less known techniques that may also prove useful.

Cooked Food Waste-An Efficient and Less Expensive Precursor for the Generation of Activated Carbon.

PubMed

Krithiga, Thangavelu; Sabina, Xavier Janet; Rajesh, Baskaran; Ilbeygi, Hamid; Shetty, Adka Nityananda; Reddy, Ramanjaneya; Karthikeyan, Jayabalan

2018-06-01

Activated carbon was synthesized from cooked food waste, especially dehydrated rice kernels, by chemical activation method using NaOH and KOH as activating agents. It was then characterized by ultimate and proximate analysis, BET surface analysis, XRD, FTIR, Raman and SEM. The XRD patterns and Raman spectra confirmed the amorphous nature of the prepared activated carbons. Ultimate analysis showed an increase in the carbon content after activation of the raw carbon samples. Upon activation with NaOH and KOH, the surface area of the carbon sample was found to have increased from 0.3424 to 539.78 and 306.83 m2g-1 respectively. The SEM images revealed the formation of heterogeneous pores on the surface of the activated samples. The samples were then tested for their adsorption activity using acetic acid and methylene blue. Based on the regression coefficients, the adsorption kinetics of methylene blue dye were fitted with pseudo-second order model for both samples. Similarly, the Freundlich isotherm was found to be a better fit than Langmuir isotherm for both samples. The activity of thus prepared activated carbons was found to be comparable with the commercial carbon.

Ultrasonically assisted solvothermal synthesis of novel Ni/Al layered double hydroxide for capturing of Cd(II) from contaminated water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahmanian, Omid; Maleki, Mohammad Hassan; Dinari, Mohammad

2017-11-01

A novel adsorbent of nickel aluminum layered double hydroxide (Ni/Al-LDH) was prepared through the precipitation of metal nitrates by ultrasonically assisted solvothermal method. The surface morphology, chemical structure and thermal properties of this compound were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques. The XRD, TEM and FE-SEM results established that the synthesized LDH have a well-ordered layer structure with good crystalline nature. Then it was applied to remove excessive Cd(II) ions from water and the effects of contact time, pH and adsorbent dose were examined at initial Cd(II) concentration of 10 mg/L. Results show that the time required to reach equilibrium was fast (40 min) and working pH solution was neutral (pH 7). Langmuir and Freundlich model of adsorption isotherms were explored; the results show that the Freundlich model was better fitted than that Langmuir model. This results predicting a multilayer adsorption of Cd(II) on LDH. The equilibrium kinetic adsorption data were fixed to the pseudo-second order kinetic equation.

Application of biocompatible magnetite nanoparticles for the removal of arsenic and copper from water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iconaru, S. L.; Beuran, M.; Turculet, C. S.; Negoi, I.; Teleanu, G.; Prodan, A. M.; Motelica-Heino, M.; Guégan, R.; Ciobanu, C. S.; Jiga, G.; Predoi, Daniela

2018-02-01

The progress of nanotechnology made possible the use of nanomaterials as adsorbents and magnetic iron oxides represents one of the first generations of nanoscale materials used in environment technologies [1]. A systematic characterization of commercial magnetite (Fe3O4) is presented in this research. The commercial (Fe3O4) magnetic adsorbents were characterized by various characterizations methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). This study was also focused on the study of adsorption isotherms and the kinetics evaluation. X-ray studies indicated that As3+ and Cu2+ removed by Fe3O4 did not seem to alter the structure of Fe3O4 but they were highlighted in the EDX analysis. In addition, the SEM studies were consistent with the XRD results. The rate of adsorption of contaminants, in contaminated solutions decreases when the amount of contaminant increases in all experiments performed. The results revealed that Fe3O4 nanoparticles are promising candidates which could be used as sorbents for the removal of arsenic from the marine environment, for site remediation and groundwater treatment.

Multifunctional AgNPs@Wool: colored, UV-protective and antioxidant functional textiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shabbir, Mohd; Mohammad, Faqeer

2018-02-01

Nanomaterials have great impact on textile industry for multifunctional and smart clothing as per the need of present, and further, green nanotechnology is the current hotspot of research and industrial developments. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized (in situ) by using natural compounds of plant extracts (naphthoquinones, phenolics/flavonoids, polyphenols) as reducing or stabilizing agents, and simultaneously deposited on wool fabric for coloration, UV protection and antioxidant properties. UV-visible spectroscopy is used to monitor the route of biosynthesis of nanoparticles and transmission electron microscopy for morphological characteristics of synthesized AgNPs. Spherical and almost oval-shaped AgNPs were synthesized by naphthoquinones, polyphenols and flavonoids, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used for the AgNPs@Wool fabrics characterization. SEM-EDX analysis and XRD patterns confirmed the successful deposition of silver nanoparticles on wool. Coloration characteristics in terms of color strength (K/S) and CIEL*a*b*c*h° values, UV protection abilities in terms of UV transmittance and UV protection factor, and % antioxidant activity of AgNPs@Wool are suggestive of good-to-excellent results.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Shuling, E-mail: shulingliu@aliyun.com; College of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710021; Ma, Lanbing

Highlights: • ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P composites have been firstly synthesized via a gentle hydrothermal route. • The composites have been characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. • ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P showed enhanced photocatalytic degradation activity for pyronine B. • The reason for the enhanced photocatalytic activity has been discussed. - Abstract: ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P core/shell composites were successfully synthesized using a hydrothermal method. The composites have been characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM and the corresponding results showed that the composites were composed of the cubic ZnS microspheres, which were made up of ZnS nanoparticles, and Ni{sub 2}P nanoparticles coated on the surfaces ofmore » ZnS microspheres. Compared with ZnS microspheres, ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P core/shell composites showed enhanced photocatalytic degradation activity for pyronine B under UV irradiation. This may be related to the effective separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs in ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P composites which can greatly reduce the chance of their recombination. Furthermore, superoxide ions and hydroxyl radical can be more easily produced through ZnS/Ni{sub 2}P composites, which is also beneficial for the degradation of pyronine B.« less

Autogenous teeth used for bone grafting: a comparison with traditional grafting materials.

PubMed

Kim, Young-Kyun; Kim, Su-Gwan; Yun, Pil-Young; Yeo, In-Sung; Jin, Seung-Chan; Oh, Ji-Su; Kim, Heung-Joong; Yu, Sun-Kyoung; Lee, Sook-Young; Kim, Jae-Sung; Um, In-Woong; Jeong, Mi-Ae; Kim, Gyung-Wook

2014-01-01

This study evaluated the surface structures and physicochemical characteristics of a novel autogenous tooth bone graft material currently in clinical use. The material's surface structure was compared with a variety of other bone graft materials via scanning electron microscope (SEM). The crystalline structure of the autogenous tooth bone graft material from the crown (AutoBT crown) and root (AutoBT root), xenograft (BioOss), alloplastic material (MBCP), allograft (ICB), and autogenous mandibular cortical bone were compared using x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The solubility of each material was measured with the Ca/P dissolution test. The results of the SEM analysis showed that the pattern associated with AutoBT was similar to that from autogenous cortical bones. In the XRD analysis, AutoBT root and allograft showed a low crystalline structure similar to that of autogenous cortical bones. In the CaP dissolution test, the amount of calcium and phosphorus dissolution in AutoBT was significant from the beginning, while displaying a pattern similar to that of autogenous cortical bones. In conclusion, autogenous tooth bone graft materials can be considered to have physicochemical characteristics similar to those of autogenous bones. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ferroelectricity of strained SrTiO3 in lithium tetraborate glass-nanocomposite and glass-ceramic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdel-Khalek, E. K.; Mohamed, E. A.; Kashif, I.

2018-02-01

Glass-nanocomposite (GNCs) sample of the composition [90Li2B4O7-10SrTiO3] (mol %) was prepared by conventional melt quenching technique. The glassy phase and the amorphous nature of the GNCs sample were identified by Differential thermal analysis (DTA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies, respectively. DTA of the GNCs exhibits sharp and broad exothermic peaks which represent the crystallization of Li2B4O7 and SrTiO3, respectively. The tetragonal Li2B4O7 and tetragonal SrTiO3 crystalline phases in glass-ceramic (GC) were identified by XRD and scanning electron microscopic (SEM). The strain tetragonal SrTiO3 phase in GNCs and GC has been confirmed by SEM. The values of crystallization activation energies (Ec1 and Ec2) for the first and second exothermic peaks are equal to 174 and 1452 kJ/mol, respectively. The Ti3+ ions in tetragonal distorted octahedral sites in GNCs were identified by optical transmission spectrum. GNCs and GC samples exhibit broad dielectric anomalies at 303 and 319 K because of strained SrTiO3 ferroelectric, respectively.

Template-free synthesis of ZnWO{sub 4} powders via hydrothermal process in a wide pH range

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hojamberdiev, Mirabbos, E-mail: mirabbos_uz@yahoo.com; Zhu, Gangqiang; Xu, Yunhua

ZnWO{sub 4} powders with different morphologies were fabricated through a template-free hydrothermal method at 180 {sup o}C for 8 h in a wide pH range. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible and luminescence spectrophotometers were applied to study the effects of pH values on crystallinity, morphology, optical and luminescence properties. The XRD results showed that the WO{sub 3} + ZnWO{sub 4}, ZnWO{sub 4}, and ZnO phases could form after hydrothermal processing at 180 {sup o}C for 8 h with the pH values of 1, 3-11, and 13, respectively. The SEM and TEM observation revealedmore » that the morphological transformation of ZnWO{sub 4} powders occurred with an increase in pH values as follows: star anise-, peony-, and desert rose-like microstructures and soya bean- and rod-like nanostructures. The highest luminescence intensity was found to be in sample consisting of star anise-like crystallites among all the samples due to the presence of larger particles with high crystallinity resulted from the favorable pH under the current hydrothermal conditions.« less

Preparation and Compatibility Evaluation of Polypropylene/High Density Polyethylene Polyblends

PubMed Central

Lin, Jia-Horng; Pan, Yi-Jun; Liu, Chi-Fan; Huang, Chien-Lin; Hsieh, Chien-Teng; Chen, Chih-Kuang; Lin, Zheng-Ian; Lou, Ching-Wen

2015-01-01

This study proposes melt-blending polypropylene (PP) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) that have a similar melt flow index (MFI) to form PP/HDPE polyblends. The influence of the content of HDPE on the properties and compatibility of polyblends is examined by using a tensile test, flexural test, Izod impact test, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized light microscopy (PLM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The SEM results show that PP and HDPE are incompatible polymers with PP being a continuous phase and HDPE being a dispersed phase. The FTIR results show that the combination of HDPE does not influence the chemical structure of PP, indicating that the polyblends are made of a physical blending. The DSC and XRD results show that PP and HDPE are not compatible, and the combination of HDPE is not correlated with the crystalline structure and stability of PP. The PLM results show that the combination of HDPE causes stacking and incompatibility between HDPE and PP spherulites, and PP thus has incomplete spherulite morphology and a smaller spherulite size. However, according to mechanical property test results, the combination of HDPE improves the impact strength of PP. PMID:28793750

Preparation and Compatibility Evaluation of Polypropylene/High Density Polyethylene Polyblends.

PubMed

Lin, Jia-Horng; Pan, Yi-Jun; Liu, Chi-Fan; Huang, Chien-Lin; Hsieh, Chien-Teng; Chen, Chih-Kuang; Lin, Zheng-Ian; Lou, Ching-Wen

2015-12-17

This study proposes melt-blending polypropylene (PP) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) that have a similar melt flow index (MFI) to form PP/HDPE polyblends. The influence of the content of HDPE on the properties and compatibility of polyblends is examined by using a tensile test, flexural test, Izod impact test, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), polarized light microscopy (PLM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The SEM results show that PP and HDPE are incompatible polymers with PP being a continuous phase and HDPE being a dispersed phase. The FTIR results show that the combination of HDPE does not influence the chemical structure of PP, indicating that the polyblends are made of a physical blending. The DSC and XRD results show that PP and HDPE are not compatible, and the combination of HDPE is not correlated with the crystalline structure and stability of PP. The PLM results show that the combination of HDPE causes stacking and incompatibility between HDPE and PP spherulites, and PP thus has incomplete spherulite morphology and a smaller spherulite size. However, according to mechanical property test results, the combination of HDPE improves the impact strength of PP.

Poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag Nanocomposite as Humidity Sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pande, Nishigandh S.; Jaspal, Dipika; Ambekar, Jalindar

Poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag organic-inorganic composite has been synthesized by a single step in situ chemical oxidative polymerization method. The synthesis of Poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite has been confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet-Vis Spectroscopy (UV-visible), Fourier transform infrared analysis (FTIR) and FE-SEM investigations. XRD spectral study exhibited major diffraction in the range 20-80∘ (2θ) and indicated the semicrystalline nature of poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite. Characteristic peaks in UV-visible and FTIR spectra of poly (N-ethyl aniline) switched to higher wave numbers in poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite. Peaks at 1789cm-1, 1595cm-1, 667cm-1 and 501cm-1 in FTIR spectrum confirmed the formation of poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite. FE-SEM photographs reported agglomerated granular particulate nature of poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite. Synthesized poly (N-ethyl aniline)/Ag nanocomposite exhibited a high response to humidity, good reproducibility and stability at room temperature. An appreciable response was shown in the presence of 40% humid atmosphere for up to successive four cycles. Composite sensitivity has been found to increase with the increasing concentration of humidity, at room temperature.

[Color-tunable nano-material alpha-NaYF4 : Yb, Er, Tm prepared by microemulsion-hydrothermal method].

PubMed

Long, Dan-Dan; Zhang, Qing-Xia; Wang, Yu; Zhang, Fan; Wang, Yan-Fei; Zhou, Xin; Qi, Xiao-Hua; Zhang, Heng; Yan, Jing-Hui; Zou, Ming-Qiang

2013-08-01

NaYF4 : Yb3+, Er3+, Tm3+ nanoparticles were prepared by microemulsion-hydrothermal method. Crystal phase, morphology and structure of the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The luminescence properties were studied by up-conversional fluorescence spectroscopy. The XRD patterns of as-prepared samples were in agreement with the PDF # 77-2042 of cubic NaYF4. SEM images of the particles showed that the samples were cotton-like spherical in shape and which were assembled by smaller nano-particles. The average size was 120 nm, while the shape was regular and the particle size was homogeneous. Under the excitation of 980 nm, the as-prepared particles could emit blue (438 and 486 nm), green (523 and 539 nm) and red (650 nm) light simultaneously. It can be seen from the color coordinates figure (CIE) that when doping concentration ratio of Tm3+ and E3+ increased from 0 to 2, the whole emitting light color of samples movedto green region. While the ratio was 1 : 1, pseudo white light was obtained. As the ratio changed from 2 to 7, the luminous color was moved to red region.

Preparation and characterization of cross-linked poly (vinyl alcohol)-graphene oxide nanocomposites as an interlayer for Schottky barrier diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badrinezhad, Lida; Bilkan, Çigdem; Azizian-Kalandaragh, Yashar; Nematollahzadeh, Ali; Orak, Ikram; Altindal, Şemsettin

2018-01-01

Cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites were prepared by simple solution-mixing route and characterized by Raman, UV-visible and fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The XRD pattern and SEM analysis showed significant changes in the nanocomposite structures, and the FT-IR spectroscopy results confirmed the chemical interaction between the GO filler and the PVA matrix. After these morphological characterizations, PVA-GO-based diodes were fabricated and their electrical properties were characterized using current-voltage (I-V) and impedance-voltage-frequency (Z-V-f) measurements at room temperature. Semilogarithmic I-V characteristics of diode showed a good rectifier behavior. The values of C and G/ω increased with decreasing frequency due to the surface/interface states (Nss) which depend on the relaxation time and the frequency of the signal. The voltage, dependent profiles of Nss and series resistance (Rs) were obtained from the methods of high-low frequency capacitance and Nicollian and Brews, respectively. The obtained values of Nss and Rs were attributed to the use of cross-linked PVA-GO interlayer at the Au/n-Si interface.

Synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle composite with poly(p-Br-phenylsilane).

PubMed

Kim, Myoung-Hee; Lee, Jun; Mo, Soo-Yong; Woo, Hee-Gweon; Yang, Kap Seung; Kim, Bo-Hye; Lee, Byeong-Gweon; Sohn, Honglae

2012-05-01

The one-pot synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticle-poly(p-Br-phenylsilane) composites have been carried out. The conversion of silver(+1) salt to stable silver(0) nanoparticles is promoted by poly(p-Br-phenylsilane), Br-PPS possessing both possible reactive Si-H bonds in the polymer backbone and C-Br bonds in the substituents. The composites were characterized using XRD, TEM, FE-SEM, and solid-state UV-vis analytical techniques. TEM and FE-SEM data show the formation of the composites where large number of silver nanoparticles (less than 30 nm of size) are well dispersed throughout the Br-PPS matrix. XRD patterns are consistent with that for fcc-typed silver. The elemental analysis for Br atom and the polymer solubility confirm that the cleavage of C-Br bond and the Si-Br dative bonding were not occurred appreciably at ambient temperature. Nonetheless, TGA data suggest that some sort of cross-linking was occurred at high temperature. The size and processability of such nanoparticles depend on the ratio of metal to Br-PPS. In the absence of Br-PPS, most of the silver particles undergo macroscopic aggregation, which indicates that the polysilane is necessary for stabilizing the silver nanoparticles.

RuO2/Activated Carbon Composite Electrode Prepared by Modified Colloidal Procedure and Thermal Decomposition Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Zheng, Feng; Gan, Weiping; Luo, Xun

2016-01-01

RuO2/activated carbon (AC) composite electrode was prepared by a modified colloidal procedure and a thermal decomposition method. The precursor for RuO2/AC was coated on tantalum sheet and annealed at 150°C to 190°C for 3 h to develop thin-film electrode. The microstructure and morphology of the RuO2/AC film were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The TGA results showed the maximum loss of RuO2/AC composite film at 410°C, with residual RuO2 of 23.17 wt.%. The amorphous phase structure of the composite was verified by XRD analysis. SEM analysis revealed that fine RuO2 particles were dispersed in an activated carbon matrix after annealing. The electrochemical properties of RuO2/AC electrode were examined by cycling voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and cyclic behavior measurements. The specific capacitance of RuO2/AC electrode reached 245 F g-1. The cyclic behavior of RuO2/AC electrode was stable. Optimal annealing was achieved at 170°C for 3 h.

Preparation and Characterization of Cellulose Microcrystalline (MCC) from Fiber of Empty Fruit Bunch Palm Oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nasution, H.; Yurnaliza; Veronicha; Irmadani; Sitompul, S.

2017-03-01

Alpha cellulose which was isolated from cellulose of fiber empty fruit bunch palm oil was hidrolized with hydrochloric acid (2,5N) at 80°C to produce microcrystalline cellulose (MCC). Microcrystalline cellulose is an important additional ingredient in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics, and structural composites. In this study, MCC, alpha cellulose, and cellulose were characterized and thereafter were compared. Characterizations were made using some equipment such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry analyzer (TGA). X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy were studied to determine crystallinity and molecular structure of MCC, where scanning electron microscopy images were conducted for information about morfology of MCC. Meanwhile, thermal resistance of MCC was determined using thermogravimetry analyzer (TGA). From XRD and FTIR, the obtained results showed that the crystalline part was traced on MCC, where the -OH and C-O groups tended to reduced as alpha cellulose has changed to MCC. From SEM the image showed the reduction of particle size of MCC, while the thermal resistance of MCC was found lower as compared with cellulose and alpha cellulose as well, which was attributed to the lower molecular weight of MCC.

Synthesis of ZnO nanorods and observation of resistive switching memory in ZnO based polymer nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nair, Manjula G.; Malakar, Meenakshi; Mohapatra, Saumya R.; Chowdhury, Avijit

2018-05-01

This research reports the observation of bipolar resistive switching memory in ZnO nanorod based polymer nanocomposites. We synthesized ZnO nanorods by wet-chemical method and characterized them using XRD, UV-VIS spectroscopy and SEM. The synthesized materials have hexagonal ZnO phase with grain size of 24 nm and having strong orientation along (101) direction as observed from XRD. The SEM micrograph confirms the formation of ZnO nanorods with diameter in the range of 10 to 20 nm and length of the order of 1 µm. From optical absorption spectra the band gap is estimated to be 2.42 eV. ZnO nanorods were dispersed in PVDF-HFP polymer matrix to prepare the nanocomposite. This nanocomposite was used as active layer in the devices having sandwich structure of ITO/PVDF-HFP+ZnO nanorods/Al. Bipolar non-volatile memory was observed with ON-OFF resistance ratio of the order of 103 and with a wide voltage window of 2.3V. The switching mechanism could be due to the trapping and de-trapping of electrons by the ZnO nanorods in the nanocomposite during ON and OFF states respectively.

Composite electrodes of activated carbon derived from cassava peel and carbon nanotubes for supercapacitor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taer, E.; Iwantono, Yulita, M.; Taslim, R.; Subagio, A.; Salomo, Deraman, M.

2013-09-01

In this paper, a composite electrode was prepared from a mixture of activated carbon derived from precarbonization of cassava peel (CP) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The activated carbon was produced by pyrolysis process using ZnCl2 as an activation agent. A N2 adsorption-desorption analysis for the sample indicated that the BET surface area of the activated carbon was 1336 m2 g-1. Difference percentage of CNTs of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% with 5% of PVDF binder were added into CP based activated carbon in order to fabricate the composite electrodes. The morphology and structure of the composite electrodes were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The SEM image observed that the distribution of CNTs was homogeneous between carbon particles and the XRD pattern shown the amorphous structure of the sample. The electrodes were fabricated for supercapacitor cells with 316L stainless steel as current collector and 1 M sulfuric acid as electrolyte. An electrochemical characterization was performed by using an electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method using a Solatron 1286 instrument and the addition of CNTs revealed to improve the resistant and capacitive properties of supercapacitor cell.

Investigation on mechanical behavior and material characteristics of various weight composition of SiCp reinforced aluminium metal matrix composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pichumani, Sivachidambaram; Srinivasan, Raghuraman; Ramamoorthi, Venkatraman

2018-02-01

Aluminium - silicon carbide (Al - SiC) metal matrix composite is produced with following wt % of SiC reinforcement (4%, 8% & 12%) using stir casting method. Mechanical testing such as micro hardness, tensile testing and bend testing were performed. Characterizations, namely micro structure, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, inductive coupled plasma - optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, were carried out on Al - SiC composites. The presence of SiC on Al - SiC composite is confirmed through XRD technique and microstructure. The percentage of SiC was confirmed through ICP-OES technique. Increase in weight percentage of SiC tends to increase micro hardness, ultimate strength & yield strength but it reduces the bend strength and elongation (%) of the material. SEM factrography of tensile tested fractured samples of Al - 8% SiC & Al - 12% SiC showed fine dimples on fractured surface & coarse dimples fractured surface respectively. This showed significant fracture differences between Al - 8% SiC & Al - 12% SiC. From the above experiment, Al - 8% SiC had good micro hardness, ultimate strength & yield strength without significant loss in elongation (%) & bend strength.

Laser irradiation effects on the surface, structural and mechanical properties of Al-Cu alloy 2024

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yousaf, Daniel; Bashir, Shazia; Akram, Mahreen; kalsoom, Umm-i.-; Ali, Nisar

2014-02-01

Laser irradiation effects on surface, structural and mechanical properties of Al-Cu-Mg alloy (Al-Cu alloy 2024) have been investigated. The specimens were irradiated for various fluences ranging from 3.8 to 5.5 J/cm2 using an Excimer (KrF) laser (248 nm, 18 ns, 30 Hz) under vacuum environment. The surface and structural modifications of the irradiated targets have been investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD), respectively. SEM analysis reveals the formation of micro-sized craters along the growth of periodic surface structures (ripples) at their peripheries. The size of the craters initially increases and then decreases by increasing the laser fluence. XRD analysis shows an anomalous trend in the peak intensity and crystallite size of the specimen irradiated for various fluences. A universal tensile testing machine and Vickers microhardness tester were employed in order to investigate the mechanical properties of the irradiated targets. The changes in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and microhardness were found to be anomalous with increasing laser fluences. The changes in the surface and structural properties of Al-Cu alloy 2024 after laser irradiation have been associated with the changes in mechanical properties.

Preparation of MWCNT-Fe3O4 Nanocomposites from Iron Sand Using Sonochemical Route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahmawati, R.; Melati, A.; Taufiq, A.; Sunaryono; Diantoro, M.; Yuliarto, B.; Suyatman, S.; Nugraha, N.; Kurniadi, D.

2017-05-01

The composites of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles from iron sand were successfully prepared via the sonochemical route. In this experiment, the MWCNT-Fe3O4 nanocomposites were prepared with different compositions of MWCNT (0.01%, 0.02%, and 0.04%) with the constant composition of Fe3O4 particles. The characterizations were performed by means of X-Ray Diffractometry (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) Spectrometer and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) integrated with Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX). The XRD data analysis showed that the Fe3O4 crystallize in spinel structure in nanometric size. Furthermore, the crystallinity of the samples tended to reduce by increasing the MWCNT compositions. The SEM images showed that Fe3O4 tend to agglomerate in nanometric size. The FTIR spectra detected the functional groups of Fe-O bonding that showed the existence of Fe2+ and Fe3+. In the composites, the Fe3O4 nanoparticles were physically mixed with the MWCNTs constructing a unique structure. The as prepared MWCNT-Fe3O4 nanocomposites have the potential for bio-applications.

Synthesis, Optical and Structural Properties of Copper Sulfide Nanocrystals from Single Molecule Precursors

PubMed Central

Ajibade, Peter A.; Botha, Nandipha L.

2017-01-01

We report the synthesis and structural studies of copper sulfide nanocrystals from copper (II) dithiocarbamate single molecule precursors. The precursors were thermolysed in hexadecylamine (HDA) to prepare HDA-capped CuS nanocrystals. The optical properties of the nanocrystals studied using UV–visible and photoluminescence spectroscopy showed absorption band edges at 287 nm that are blue shifted, and the photoluminescence spectra show emission curves that are red-shifted with respect to the absorption band edges. These shifts are as a result of the small crystallite sizes of the nanoparticles leading to quantum size effects. The structural studies were carried out using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and atomic force microscopy. The XRD patterns indicates that the CuS nanocrystals are in hexagonal covellite crystalline phases with estimated particles sizes of 17.3–18.6 nm. The TEM images showed particles with almost spherical or rod shapes, with average crystallite sizes of 3–9.8 nm. SEM images showed morphology with ball-like microspheres on the surfaces, and EDS spectra confirmed the presence of CuS nanoparticles. PMID:28336865

Upconversion luminescence of Er3+/Yb3+ doped Sr5(PO4)3OH phosphor powders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mokoena, P. P.; Swart, H. C.; Ntwaeaborwa, O. M.

2018-04-01

Sr5(PO4)3OH co-doped with Er3+and Yb3+ powder phosphors were synthesized by urea combustion method. The crystal structure was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD). Particle morphology was analyzed using a Jeol JSM 7800F thermal field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and the chemical composition analysis was carried out using an Oxford Instruments AzTEC energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) attached to the FE-SEM. Upconversion emission was measured by using a FLS980 Spectrometer equipped with a 980 nm NIR laser as the excitation source, and a photomultiplier (PMT) detector. The XRD data of the Sr5(PO4)3OH powder exhibited characteristic diffraction patterns of the hexagonal structure referenced in the standard JCPDS card number 00-033-1348. The sharp peaks revealed the formation of crystalline Sr5(PO4)3OH. The powders were made up of hexagonal nanospheres. The enhanced red emission due to the 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transitions of Er3+ was observed and was attributed to up conversion (UC) energy transfer from Yb3+. The upconversion energy transfer mechanism from Yb3+ to Er3+ is discussed.

Microstructures and Hardness of the High Chromium Oxide Dispersion Strengthened Alloy Fe-25Cr-Y2O3Sintered by the Arc Plasma Sintering (APS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bandriyana; Dimyati, Arbi; Sujatno, Agus; Salam, Rohmad; Sumaryo; Untoro, Pudji; Suharno, Bambang

2018-03-01

High chromium ODS alloy has been developed for application as structural material in high temperature nuclear reactor. In the present study, Fe-25Cr-Y2O3 with dispersed 0.5 wt.% Ytria (Y2O3) were synthesized and characterized by means of various techniques as a function of milling time 1, 2 and 3 hours. The alloy synthesis was carried out by the Mechanical Alloying (MA) process and subsequent sintering by means the new plasma technique using the APS apparatus. Scaning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were conducted for morphology and phase analysis. Evaluation of the mechanical properties was studied based on the Vickers hardness measurement. SEM examination revealed that the sample after sintering by APS method at different milling duration exhibited some particle aglomeration and homogenized oxide dispersion that obviously strengthened the alloy. The XRD test, however, proved the formation of the main phase Fe-Cr. The alloy showed exceptionally high hardness of 193 VHR which is mainly due to the grain refining that increase by the increasing of the milling time.

Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of ytterbium-doped titania/diatomite composite photocatalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Wenjian; Qiu, Kehui; Zhang, Peicong; Yuan, Xiqiang

2016-01-01

Ytterbium-doped titanium dioxide (Yb-TiO2)/diatomite composite materials with different Yb concentrations were prepared by sol-gel method. The phase structure, morphology, and chemical composition of the as-prepared composites were well characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) diffuse reflection spectroscopy. The XRD and Raman spectroscopy analysis indicated that the TiO2 existed in the form of pure anatase in the composites. The SEM images exhibited the well deposition and dispersion of TiO2 nanoparticles with little agglomeration on the surfaces of diatoms. The UV-vis diffuse reflection spectra showed that the band gap of TiO2 could be narrowed by the introduction of Yb species, which was further affected by doping concentration of Yb. The photocatalytic activity of synthesized samples was investigated by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV light irradiation. It was observed that the photocatalytic degradation followed a pseudo-first-order kinetics according to the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. Compared to TiO2 and TiO2/diatomite, the Yb-TiO2/diatomite composites exhibited higher photocatalytic activity toward degradation of MB using UV light irradiation.

Characterization of typical heavy metals in pyrolysis MSWI fly ash.

PubMed

Xu, Tengtun; Wang, Li'ao; Zeng, Yunmin; Zhao, Xue; Wang, Lei; Zhan, Xinyuan; Li, Tong; Yang, Lu

2018-06-07

Thermal treatment methods are used extensively in the process of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash. However, the characterization of heavy metals during this process should be understood more clearly in order to control secondary pollution. In this paper, the content, speciation and leaching toxicity of mercury (Hg), plumbum (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) in fly ash treated under different temperatures and time were firstly analysed as pre-tests. Later, pilot-scale pyrolysis equipment was used to explore the concentration and speciation changes in the heavy metals of fly ash. Finally, the phase constitution and microstructure changes in fly ash were compared before and after pyrolysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The results showed that (a) The appropriate processing temperature was between 400°C and 450°C, and the processing time should be 1 h. (b) The stability of heavy metals in fly ash increased after pyrolysis. (c) XRD and SEM results indicated that phase constitution changed a little, but the microstructure varied to a porous structure similar to that of a coral reef after pyrolysis. These results suggest that pyrolysis could be an effective method in controlling heavy metal pollution in fly ash.

Hidroxyapatite Coating on CoCrMo Alloy Titanium Nitride Coated Using Biomimetic Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charlena; Sukaryo, S. G.; Fajar, M.

2016-11-01

Bone implants is a way to cure broken bones which is being developed. The implants can be made of metals, ceramics and polymers. Metallic materials commonly used are titanium (Ti), stainless steel, and metal alloys. This study used Co-based alloys, i.e. CoCrMo coated with titanium nitride (TiN) which was then coated on hidroxyapatite (HAp). The HAp coating on the surface of CoCrMo alloy was done by biomimetic methods, first by soaking the metal alloys in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution for 18, 24, and 36 hours. The immersion in the SBF solution produced white coat on the surface of the metal alloy. The layers formed were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and characterized by x-ray diffractometer (XRD). Based on the SEM results of 36 hours treatment, the morphology of apatite crystal formed fine grains. According to XRD result, there were HAp peaks at angles 2θ 31.86, 32.25, dan 39.48. However, there were also CaCO3 peaks at angles 2θ 29.46, 36.04, and 46.79. It indicated the pure HAp is not yet formed.

Solid Catalyst Nanoparticles derived from Oil-Palm Empty Fruit Bunches (OP-EFB) as a Renewable Catalyst for Biodiesel Production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Husin, H.; Asnawi, T. M.; Firdaus, A.; Husaini, H.; Ibrahim, I.; Hasfita, F.

2018-05-01

Solid nanocatalyst derived from oil-palm empty fruit bunches (OP-EFB) fiber was successfully synthesized and its application for biodiesel production was investigated. The OPEFB was treated by burning, milling and heating methods to generate ashes in a nanoparticle size. The nanoparticle palm-bunch ash was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD). The effects of the calcination temperature and catalyst amounts for transesterification reactions were investigated. XRD analysis of palm bunch ash exhibited that the highest composition of peaks characteristic were potassium oxide (K2O). SEM analysis showed that the nano palm bunch ash have a particle size ranging of 150-400 nm. The highest conversion of palm-oil to biodiesel reach to 97.90% was observed by using of palm bunch ash nanocatalyst which heated at 600°C, 3 h reaction time and 1% catalyst amount. Reusability of palm bunch ash catalysts was also examined. It was found that of its high active sites, reusable solid catalyst was obtained by just heating of palm bunch ash. It has a capability to reduce not only the amount of catalyst consumption but also reduce the reaction time of transesterification process.

Preparation and Properties of Surface-Coated HMX with Viton and Graphene Oxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jingyu; Ye, Baoyun; An, Chongwei; Wu, Bidong; Li, Hequn; Wei, Yanju

2016-07-01

To improve the safety performance of HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine) particles, the new carbon material graphene oxide (GO) and Viton were used to coat HMX via a solvent-slurry process. For comparison, the HMX/Viton/graphite (HMX/Viton/G) and HMX/Viton composites were also prepared by the same process. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to characterize the morphology, composition, and thermal decomposition of samples. The impact sensitivity and shock wave sensitivity of HMX-based composites were also measured and analyzed. The results of SEM, XRD, and XPS indicate that the cladding layer of HMX-based composites is successfully constructed. HMX/Viton/GO composites exhibit better thermal stability compared to HMX and HMX/Viton. The results show that both impact and shock wave sensitivities of HMX/Viton/GO composites are much lower than that of HMX/Viton. In addition, GO sheets exhibit a better desensitizing effect than G sheets. These combined properties suggest that nano-GO has good compatibility with explosives and can be utilized as a desensitizer in HMX particles.

Effects of (Ce, Cu) Co-doping on the Structural and Optical Properties of ZnO Aerogels Synthesized in Supercritical Ethanol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Djouadi, D.; Slimi, O.; Hammiche, L.; Chelouche, A.; Touam, T.

2018-03-01

Undoped, Ce-doped, Cu-doped and (Ce,Cu ) co-doped ZnO aerogels were synthesized by sol-gel process in supercritical conditions of ethanol. [Cu]/[Zn] and [Ce]/[Zn] atomic ratios were fixed at 0.02 (2%). The aerogels were investigated without any additional treatments by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). XRD results revealed that all the samples are well crystallized in hexagonal wurtzite structure. EDS measurements showed that highly pure aerogels are prepared. SEM analysis indicated that the morphology of the samples is dependent on Cu and Ce dopants. From UV-visible spectroscopy analyses, it was shown that the absorption and the band gap of the aerogels are strongly affected by Ce and Cu dopants. FTIR spectra demonstrated that co-doping induces a shift of Zn-O bond vibration band toward low wavenumbers. The room temperature photoluminescence spectra put into evidence that the visible emission intensity is influenced by Ce and Cu doping. In particular, the co-doping leads to the appearance of a blue emission band at 443 nm.

Effect of solvents on sol-gel spin-coated nanostructured Al-doped ZnO thin films: a film for key optoelectronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, K. Deva Arun; Valanarasu, S.; Kathalingam, A.; Ganesh, V.; Shkir, Mohd.; AlFaify, S.

2017-12-01

Aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films were deposited by sol-gel spin coating technique onto the glass substrates using different solvents such as 2-methoxyethanol, methanol, ethanol and isopropanol. Prepared films were characterized by XRD, Raman spectrum, SEM, UV-visible spectrophotometer, photoluminescence (PL) and electrical studies. XRD studies showed that all the prepared films are hexagonal wurtzite structure with polycrystalline nature oriented along (002) direction. SEM images showed uniform particles of size around 60 nm distributed regularly on to the entire glass substrate. EDX analysis confirmed the composition of grown AZO film consisting of Al, Zn and O elements. The prepared films showed highest optical transmittance 94% in the visible range and band gap 3.30 eV. PL spectra for all AZO films showed a strong UV emission peak at 387 nm. The AZO films prepared using isopropanol solvent showed high carrier concentration and low resistivity values as 1.72 × 1020 cm-3 and 2.90 × 10-3 Ω cm, respectively, with high figure of merit ( ϕ) value 8.42 × 10-3 (Ω/sq)-1.

Identification of corrosion product on medium carbon steel under the exposure of Banda Aceh’s atmosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thalib, Sulaiman; Ikhsan, Muharil; Fonna, Syarizal; Huzni, Syifaul; Ridha, Syahrir

2018-05-01

This research was conducted to study the form of corrosion products of medium carbon steel under the exposure of Banda Aceh’s atmosphere. The medium carbon steel samples which the size based on ASTM G 50 were exposed in open areas around the Engineering Faculty, Syiah Kuala University, Darussalam - Banda Aceh, Aceh province, Indonesia. The study was carried out from January through December 2016. The corrosion product formed on the surface of the samples was studied using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) method. Measurements of weight loss due to atmospheric corrosion as a basis for calculating corrosion rates was referring to ASTM G1. Corrosion product found based on XRD analysis was lepidocrocite (FeO2, γ-FeOOH) and goethite (FeO2, α-FeOOH). The results agreed with SEM analysis that also indicates to lepidocrocite and goethite. The corrosion rate for twelve months showed that the highest rate occurs in the period of March-April that was 0.024 mpy. During twelve months exposure, the corrosion products consist of lepidocrocite and goethite. Significant changes began to occur in the eighth month, where the product of corrosion was almost entirely goethite.

Development of solid dispersion systems of dapivirine to enhance its solubility.

PubMed

Gorajana, Adinarayana; Ying, Chan Chiew; Shuang, Yeen; Fong, Pooi; Tan, Zhi; Gupta, Jyoti; Talekar, Meghna; Sharma, Manisha; Garg, Sanjay

2013-06-01

Dapivirine, formerly known as TMC 120, is a poorly-water soluble anti-HIV drug, currently being developed as a vaginal microbicide. The clinical use of this drug has been limited due to its poor solubility. The aim of this study was to design solid dispersion systems of Dapivirine to improve its solubility. Solid dispersions were prepared by solvent and fusion methods. Dapivirine release from the solid dispersion system was determined by conducting in-vitro dissolution studies. The physicochemical characteristics of the drug and its formulation were studied using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), powder X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). A significant improvement in drug dissolution rate was observed with the solid dispersion systems. XRD, SEM and DSC results indicated the transformation of pure Dapivirine which exists in crystalline form into an amorphous form in selected solid dispersion formulations. FTIR and HPLC analysis confirmed the absence of drug-excipient interactions. Solid dispersion systems can be used to improve the dissolution rate of Dapivirine. This improvement could be attributed to the reduction or absence of drug crystallinity, existence of drug particles in an amorphous form and improved wettability of the drug.

Optical, structural, and nuclear scientific studies of AlGaN with high Al composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Tse Yang; Chung, Yee Ling; Li, Lin; Yao, Shude; Lee, Y. C.; Feng, Zhe Chuan; Ferguson, Ian T.; Lu, Weijie

2010-08-01

AlGaN epilayers with higher Al-compositions were grown by Metalorganic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD) on (0001) sapphire. Trimethylgallium (TMGa), trimethylaluminium (TMAl) and NH3 were used as the source precursors for Ga, Al, and N, respectively. A 25 nm AlN nucleation layer was first grown at low-temperature of 590 °C at 300 Torr. Followed, AlxGa1-xN layers were grown at 1080 °C on low-temperature AlN nucleation layers. The heterostructures were characterized by a series of techniques, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), Rutherford backscattering (RBS), photoluminescence (PL), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman scattering. Precise Al compositions were determined through XRD, RBS, and SEM combined measurements. Room Temperature Raman Scattering spectra shows three major bands from AlGaN alloys, which are AlN-like, A1 longitudinal optical (LO) phonon modes, and E2 transverse optical (TO) band, respectively, plus several peak comes from the substrate. Raman spectral line shape analysis lead to an optical determination of the electrical property free carrier concentration of AlGaN. The optical properties of AlGaN with high Al composition were presented here.

Synthesis and characterization of magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) spinel (MAS) thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Syed Muhammad; Hussain, Tousif; Ahmad, Riaz; Siddiqui, Jamil; Ali, Dilawar

2018-01-01

In a quest to identify more economic routes for synthesis of magnesium aluminate (MgAl2O4) spinel (MAS) thin films, dense plasma focus device was used with multiple plasma focus shots. Structural, bonding between composite films, surface morphological, compositional and hardness properties of MAS thin films were investigated by using x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-rays (EDX) analysis and Vickers micro hardness test respectively. In XRD graph, the presence of MgAl2O4 diffraction peaks in crystallographic orientations (222), (400) and (622) pointed out the successful formation of polycrystalline thin films of MgAl2O4 with face centered cubic structure. The FTIR spectrums showed a major common transmittance band at 697.95 cm-1 which belongs to MgAl2O4. SEM micrographs illustrated a mesh type, granular and multi layers microstructures with significant melting effects. EDX spectrum confirmed the existence of magnesium, oxygen and aluminum in MAS films. A common increasing behavior in micro-hardness of composite MgAl2O4 films by increasing number of plasma focus shots was found.

Composite uranium carbide targets at TRIUMF: Development and characterization with SEM, XRD, XRF and L-edge densitometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kunz, Peter; Bricault, Pierre; Dombsky, Marik; Erdmann, Nicole; Hanemaayer, Vicky; Wong, John; Lützenkirchen, Klaus

2013-09-01

The production of radioactive ion beams (RIB) from spallation targets by irradiation with a continuous 500 MeV proton beam, has been routine at TRIUMF for several years. Based on the experience with composite refractory carbide targets a procedure for the fabrication of UC2/C targets was developed. It includes the preparation of UC2 by carbothermal reduction of UO2, the slip-casting of fine-grained UC2/C slurry on graphite foil under inert gas atmosphere and the cutting of composite target discs which are stacked up to a lamellar structure. The thermal properties of such an arrangement are adequate to withstand the high power deposition of an intense, continuous proton beam and also beneficial for the fast release of short-lived radioactive isotopes. Molecular structure, particle size and the impact of sintering of the target discs were investigated via XRD and SEM. Thickness and mass distribution were measured with position-sensitive LIII-edge densitometry. The results confirm that the properties of the UC2/C target material are well suited for RIB production at TRIUMF while there is still room for improvement with regard to uniformity of mass distribution in target disc thickness.

Deposition of magnesium nitride thin films on stainless steel-304 substrates by using a plasma focus device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramezani, Amir Hoshang; Habibi, Maryam; Ghoranneviss, Mahmood

2014-08-01

In this research, for the first time, we synthesize magnesium nitride thin films on 304-type stainless steel substrates using a Mather-type (2 kJ) plasma focus (PF) device. The films of magnesium nitride are coated with different number of focus shots (like 15, 25 and 35) at a distance of 8 cm from the anode tip and at 0° angular position with respect to the anode axis. For investigation of the structural properties and surface morphology of magnesium nitride films, we utilized the X-ray diffractometer (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, respectively. Also, the elemental composition is characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Furthermore, Vicker's microhardness is used to study the mechanical properties of the deposited films. The results show that the degree of crystallinity of deposited thin films (from XRD), the average size of particles and surface roughness (from AFM), crystalline growth of structures (from SEM) and the hardness values of the films depend on the number of focus shots. The EDX analysis demonstrates the existence of the elemental composition of magnesium in the deposited samples.

Eco-friendly synthesis of cuprous oxide (Cu2O) nanoparticles and improvement of their solar photocatalytic activities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kerour, A.; Boudjadar, S.; Bourzami, R.; Allouche, B.

2018-07-01

In this work, we have synthesized cuprous oxide (Cu2O) nanoparticles with octahedral and spherical like shapes by an ecofriendly, simple and coast effective method, by using the aqueous extract of Aloe vera and copper sulfate as solvent and precursor respectively. The effect of Aloe vera aqueous extract concentration on the morphological, structural and optical properties of as synthesized nanoparticles was studied by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform (FT-IR) spectroscopy and UV-visible diffuse reflectance. The SEM images showing octahedral and spherical agglomeration of nanoparticles. The cubic structure of Cu2O was confirmed by XRD analysis, the crystallites size depends to the concentration of Aloe vera aqueous extract with an average size ranged between 24 and 61 nm. The FT-IR vibration measurements valid the presence of pure Cu2O in the samples. The UV-visible spectra show that the prepared cuprous oxide (Cu2O) has a gap energy estimated from 2.5 to 2.62 eV. The photocatalytic activities of the as-prepared material were highly improvement by the fast degradation of methylene blue in aqueous solution at room temperature under solar simulator irradiation.

Chemical bath deposition of Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3} thin films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Deshmukh, S.G., E-mail: deshmukhpradyumn@gmail.com; Vipul, Kheraj, E-mail: vipulkheraj@gmail.com; Panchal, A.K.

2016-05-06

First time, copper bismuth sulfide (Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3}) thin films were synthesized on the glass substrate using simple, low-cost chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique. The synthesized parameters such as temperature of bath, pH and concentration of precursors were optimized for the deposition of uniform, well adherent Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3} thin films. The optical, surface morphology and structural properties of the Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3} thin films were studied using UV-VIS-NIR spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The as- synthesized Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3} film exhibits a direct band gap 1.56 to 1.58 eV having absorption coefficient of the ordermore » of 10{sup 5} cm{sup −1}. The XRD declares the amorphous nature of the films. SEM images shows films were composed of close-packed fine spherical nanoparticles of 70-80 nm in diameter. The chemical composition of the film was almost stoichiometric. The optical study indicates that the Cu{sub 3}BiS{sub 3} films can be applied as an absorber layer for thin film solar cells.« less

MoTe2, A novel anode material for sodium ion battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panda, Manas Ranjan; Anish Raj, K.; Bao, Qiaoliang; Mitra, Sagar

2018-04-01

2D layered transition metal dichalcogenides are considered as a potential anode for sodium-ion batteries due to their high specific capacity, structural stability and its well-developed two-dimensional layers. 2D layered structure Molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) provides a superior Na-ion storage properties in sodium ion battery due to its comparative more interlayer spacing (0.699 nm). In the current study MoTe2 polycrystalline powder sample has been prepared by solid state reaction process, the structural and morphological studies have been carried out by XRD, FE-SEM and EDS etc. XRD study revealsthe well crystalline structure of the material having hexagonal structure. FE-SEM and EDS studies depict the uniformflakes like structure of the material. When it is tested as sodium-ion battery anode by applying a potential window 0.1-2.5 V, the material demonstrates a high capacity and high power performances. The as prepared MoTe2 shows an initial discharge capacity of 376 mA h g-1 and a corresponding discharge capacity of 303 mA h g-1 after the 50th cycle at a current density of 500 mA g-1.

Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of dextran sulphate stabilized silver nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cakić, Milorad; Glišić, Slobodan; Nikolić, Goran; Nikolić, Goran M.; Cakić, Katarina; Cvetinov, Miroslav

2016-04-01

Dextran sulphate stabilized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs - DS) were synthesized from aqueous solution of silver nitrate (AgNO3) and dextran sulphate sodium salt (DS). The characterization of AgNPs - DS was performed by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and antimicrobial activity. The formation of AgNPs - DS was monitored by colour changes of the reaction mixture from yellowish to brown and by measuring the surface plasmon resonance absorption peak in UV-VIS spectra at 420 nm. The SEM analysis was used for size and shape determination of AgNPs - DS. The presence of elemental silver and its crystalline structure in AgNPs - DS were confirmed by EDX and XRD analyses. The possible functional groups of DS responsible for the reduction and stabilization of AgNPs were determinated by FTIR spectroscopy. The AgNPs - DS showed strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus cereus ATCC 11778, Bacillus luteus in haus strain, Bacillus subtilis ATTC 6633, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313, Escherichia coli ATTC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATTC 27853, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATTC 700603, Proteus vulgaris ATTC 8427, and antifungal activity against Candida albicans ATTC 2091.

Preparation of Cu2ZnSnS4 nano-crystalline powder by mechano-chemical method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alirezazadeh, Farzaneh; Sheibani, Saeed; Rashchi, Fereshteh

2018-01-01

Copper zinc tin sulfide (Cu2ZnSnS4, CZTS) is one of the most promising ceramic materials as an absorber layer in solar cells due to its suitable band gap, high absorption coefficient and non-toxic and environmental friendly constituent elements. In this work, nano-crystalline CZTS powder was synthesized by mechanical milling. Elemental powders of Cu, Zn, Sn and were mixed in atomic ratio of 2:1:1:4 according to the stoichiometry of Cu2ZnSnS4 and then milled in a planetary high energy ball mill under argon atmosphere. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and diffusion reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). XRD results confirm the formation of single-phase CZTS with kesterite structure after 20 h of milling. Also, the mean crystallite size was about 35 nm. SEM results show that after 20 h of milling, the product has a relatively uniform particle size distribution. Optical properties of the product indicate that the band gap of prepared CZTS is 1.6 eV which is near to the optimum value for photovoltaic solar cells showing as a light absorber material in solar energy applications.

Nano-Scale Hydroxyapatite: Synthesis, Two-Dimensional Transport Experiments, and Application for Uranium Remediation

DOE PAGES

Kanel, S. R.; Clement, T. P.; Barnett, M. O.; ...

2011-01-01

Synthetic nano-scale hydroxyapatite (NHA) was prepared and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. The XRD data confirmed that the crystalline structure and chemical composition of NHA correspond to Ca 5 OH(PO 4 ) 3 . The SEM data confirmed the size of NHA to be less than 50 nm. A two-dimensional physical model packed with saturated porous media was used to study the transport characteristics of NHA under constant flow conditions. The data show that the transport patterns of NHA were almost identical to tracer transport patterns. This result indicates that the NHA material can movemore » with water like a tracer, and its movement was neither retarded nor influenced by any physicochemical interactions and/or density effects. We have also tested the reactivity of NHA with 1 mg/L hexavalent uranium (U(VI)) and found that complete removal of U(VI) is possible using 0.5 g/L NHA at pH 5 to 6. Our results demonstrate that NHA has the potential to be injected as a dilute slurry for in situ treatment of U(VI)-contaminated groundwater systems.« less

Green synthesis and characterization of graphene nanosheets

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tavakoli, Farnosh; Salavati-Niasari, Masoud, E-mail: salavati@kashanu.ac.ir; Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Kashan, Kashan, P. O. Box. 87317-51167, Islamic Republic of Iran

Highlights: • For the first time, we have synthesized graphene nanosheets in the presence of pomegranate juice. • Here pomegranate juice was used not only as reductant but also as capping agent. • FT-IR, XRD, SEM, EDS and TEM were used to characterize the samples. • According to TEM image, graphene nanosheet is individually exfoliated after stirring for 24 h. • As shown in the TEM image, graphene monolayer is obtained. - Abstract: For the first time, we have successfully synthesized graphene nanosheets in the presence of pomegranate juice. In this approach, pomegranate juice was used not only as reductantmore » but also as capping agent to form graphene nanosheets. At first, the improved Hummer method to oxidize graphite for the synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) was applied, and then the as-produced graphene oxide was reduced by pomegranate juice to form graphene nanosheets. Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and raman were used to characterize the samples. The results obtained from the characterization techniques proved high purity of the final products.« less

Chemical synthesis of hierarchical NiCo2S4 nanosheets like nanostructure on flexible foil for a high performance supercapacitor.

PubMed

Kim, D -Y; Ghodake, G S; Maile, N C; Kadam, A A; Sung Lee, Dae; Fulari, V J; Shinde, S K

2017-08-29

In this study, hierarchical interconnected nickel cobalt sulfide (NiCo 2 S 4 ) nanosheets were effectively deposited on a flexible stainless steel foil by the chemical bath deposition method (CBD) for high-performance supercapacitor applications. The resulting NiCo 2 S 4 sample was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and electrochemical measurements. XRD and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results confirmed the formation of the ternary NiCo 2 S 4 sample with a pure cubic phase. FE-SEM and HR-TEM revealed that the entire foil surface was fully covered with the interconnected nanosheets like surface morphology. The NiCo 2 S 4 nanosheets demonstrated impressive electrochemical characteristics with a specific capacitance of 1155 F g -1 at 10 mV s -1 and superior cycling stability (95% capacity after 2000 cycles). These electrochemical characteristics could be attributed to the higher active area and higher conductivity of the sample. The results demonstrated that the interconnected NiCo 2 S 4 nanosheets are promising as electrodes for supercapacitor and energy storage applications.

Investigation of Structure and Property of Indian Cocos nucifera L. Fibre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basu, Gautam; Mishra, Leena; Samanta, Ashis Kumar

2017-12-01

Structure and physico-mechanical properties of Cocos nucifera L. fibre from a specific agro-climatic region of India, was thoroughly studied. Fine structure of the fibre was examined by Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), component analysis, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and optical microscope. SEM shows prominent longitudinal cracks and micro-pores on the surface. XRD shows a low degree of crystallinity (45%), bigger crystallite size, and even the presence of appreciable amount of non-cellulose matter. FTIR reveals presence of large quantities of hydroxyl, phenolic and aldehyde groups. Component and thermal analyses indicates presence of cellulose and lignin as major components. Physical parameters reveal that, fibres are highly variable in length (range 44-305 mm), and diameter (range 100-795 µm). Mechanical properties of the fibre viz. breaking tenacity, breaking extensibility, specific work of rupture, and coefficient of friction were measured. Microbial decomposition test under soil reveals excellent durability of coconut fibre which makes it appropriate for the application in geotextiles. Mass specific electrical resistance of 4 Ω-kg/m2 indicates its enhanced insulation as compared to the jute.

Metrological characterization of X-ray diffraction methods at different acquisition geometries for determination of crystallite size in nano-scale materials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Uvarov, Vladimir, E-mail: vladimiru@savion.huji.ac.il; Popov, Inna

2013-11-15

Crystallite size values were determined by X-ray diffraction methods for 183 powder samples. The tested size range was from a few to about several hundred nanometers. Crystallite size was calculated with direct use of the Scherrer equation, the Williamson–Hall method and the Rietveld procedure via the application of a series of commercial and free software. The results were statistically treated to estimate the significance of the difference in size resulting from these methods. We also estimated effect of acquisition conditions (Bragg–Brentano, parallel-beam geometry, step size, counting time) and data processing on the calculated crystallite size values. On the basis ofmore » the obtained results it is possible to conclude that direct use of the Scherrer equation, Williamson–Hall method and the Rietveld refinement employed by a series of software (EVA, PCW and TOPAS respectively) yield very close results for crystallite sizes less than 60 nm for parallel beam geometry and less than 100 nm for Bragg–Brentano geometry. However, we found that despite the fact that the differences between the crystallite sizes, which were calculated by various methods, are small by absolute values, they are statistically significant in some cases. The values of crystallite size determined from XRD were compared with those obtained by imaging in a transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). It was found that there was a good correlation in size only for crystallites smaller than 50 – 60 nm. Highlights: • The crystallite sizes for 183 nanopowders were calculated using different XRD methods • Obtained results were subject to statistical treatment • Results obtained with Bragg-Brentano and parallel beam geometries were compared • Influence of conditions of XRD pattern acquisition on results was estimated • Calculated by XRD crystallite sizes were compared with same obtained by TEM and SEM.« less

Phase identification and morphology study of hematite (Fe2O3) with sintering time varitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yazirin, Cepi; Puspitasari, Poppy; Sasongko, Muhammad Ilman Nur; Tsamroh, Dewi Izzatus; Risdanareni, Puput

2017-09-01

Iron oxide has been the interest of many studies due to its applications in various scientific and industrial fields including in environment, corrosion, soil science, and exhaust emissions. Iron oxide (Fe2O3) has potential applications in catalytic reactions in electronic devices such as semiconductors, paint formulations, and lithium rechargeable batteries. Fe2O3 can be synthesized through the process of stirring, decomposition of organic iron, sol-gel, combustion, and evaporating solvents. Most of the methods used involve several steps and take a long time. The aim of this research was to investigate the phase and morphology characterization of iron oxide (Fe2O3) powder with solvent ethylene glycol after being sintered for 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours. The characterization tools utilized were XRD, SEM-EDX, and FTIR. The results of XRD analysis showed that the Fe2O3 sintered for 1 hour had the smallest crystallite size with a diameter of 21.05 nm. In the XRD test, the beam of X-ray was shot directly at the grain being tested. The results of SEM analysis showed thatthe Fe2O3 sintered for 1 hour produced the best result due to its crystallite size of 12.36 nm and hada shape of homogeneous nanosphere; the duration of sintering indeed had a great influence on the grain size of iron oxide (Fe2O3). In addition, the results of the elemental composition analysis indicate that the longer the sintering process, the higher the concentration of O but the lower the Fe.

Mineralogical variation in the size fractions of a Ranong kaolin, southern Thailand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pisutha-Arnond, Visut; Phuvichit, Suraphol; Leepowpanth, Quanchai

A representative crude Ranong kaolin from the Thungkla-Ranong mine was separated into > 2 mm (granule), 2-1 mm (very coarse sand), 1-0.5 mm (coarse sand), 0.5-0.25 mm (medium sand), 0.25-0.125 mm (fine sand), 0.125-0.062 mm (very fine sand) and 62-28, 28-14, 17-7, 7-4, 4-2, 2-1 and < 1 μ m size fractions. Those size fractions were analyzed by X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with attached energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX). Kaolin group minerals were differentiated by using XRD in combination with various chemical and heat treatments together with TEM, SEM and DTA. The Ranong kaolin consists predominantly of tubular halloysite, poorly crystallized kaolinite and quartz with minor amounts of mica and K-feldspars. Other trace constituents include gibbsite, tourmaline, zircon and colored impurities (i.e. extractable iron hydroxide coating on clay mineral surface). The kaolin minerals are found in all size fractions by which their contents and halloysite/kaolinite ratios increase as the particle sizes become finer. Quartz and mica are also detected in almost all size fractions. They are, however, more abundant with coarsening particle size. Gibbsite, K-feldspar and tourmaline are mainly concentrated in the fine sand to silt size fractions. Crystallinity of kaolin minerals as measured by XRD varied moderately with size. Relatively pure kaolin minerals, predominantly halloysite and kaolinite, can be obtained in the particle size below 1 or 2 μm.

Structural, magnetic and electronic structure properties of Co doped ZnO nanoparticles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kumar, Shalendra, E-mail: shailuphy@gmail.com; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Changwon National University, Changwon, Gyeongnam 641-773; Song, T.K., E-mail: tksong@changwon.ac.kr

Highlights: • XRD and HR-TEM results show the single phase nature of Co doped ZnO nanoparticles. • XMCD and dc magnetization results indicate the RT-FM in Co doped ZnO nanoparticles. • Co L{sub 3,2} NEXAFS spectra infer that Co ions are in 2+ valence state. • O K edge NEXAFS spectra show that O vacancy increases with Co doping in ZnO. - Abstract: We reported structural, magnetic and electronic structure studies of Co doped ZnO nanoparticles. Doping of Co ions in ZnO host matrix has been studied and confirmed using various methods; such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanningmore » electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersed X-ray (EDX), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy, magnetic hysteresis loop measurements and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD). From the XRD and HR-TEM results, it is observed that Co doped ZnO nanoparticles have single phase nature with wurtzite structure and exclude the possibility of secondary phase formation. FE-SEM and TEM micrographs show that pure and Co doped nanoparticles are nearly spherical in shape. O K edge NEXAFS spectra indicate that O vacancies increase with Co doping. The Co L{sub 3,2} edge NEXAFS spectra revealed that Co ions are in 2+ valence state. DC magnetization hysteresis loops and XMCD results clearly showed the intrinsic origin of temperature ferromagnetism in Co doped ZnO nanoparticles.« less

Fabrication and Characterization of CZTS Thin Films Prepared by the Sulfurization of RF-Sputtered Stacked Metal Precursors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abusnina, Mohamed; Moutinho, Helio; Al-Jassim, Mowafak; DeHart, Clay; Matin, Mohammed

2014-09-01

In this work, Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin films were prepared by the sulfurization of metal precursors deposited sequentially via radio frequency magnetron sputtering on Mo-coated soda-lime glass. The stack order of the precursors was Mo/Zn/Sn/Cu. Sputtered precursors were annealed in sulfur atmosphere with nine different conditions to study the impact of sulfurization time and substrate temperature on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the final CZTS films. X-ray fluorescence was used to determine the elemental composition ratio of the metal precursors. Final CZTS films were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). XRD and EDS were combined to investigate the films' structure and to identify the presence of secondary phases. XRD analysis indicated an improvement in film crystallinity with an increase of the substrate temperature and annealing times. Also indicated was the minimization and/or elimination of secondary phases when the films experienced longer annealing time. EDS revealed slight Sn loss in films sulfurized at 550°C; however, an increase of the sulfurization temperature to 600°C did not confirm these results. SEM study showed that films treated with higher temperatures exhibited dense morphology, indicating the completion of the sulfurization process. The estimated absorption coefficient was on the order of 104 cm-1 for all CZTS films, and the values obtained for the optical bandgap energy of the films were between 1.33 eV and 1.52 eV.

Green and non-green callus induction from excised rice (Oryza sativa) embryos: effects of exogenous plant growth regulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, D.; Brock, T. G.; Kaufman, P. B.

1992-01-01

Calli were induced either from excised rice embryos or from whole seeds in the presence of 1 to 5 mg l-1 NAA. After 12 days of culture, calli were induced only from excised rice embryos. We found that excised embryos accumulated NAA up to 6 times higher concentration than did whole seeds. In the presence of 1 to 5 mg l-1 NAA and 2 to 10 mg l-1 kinetin, chlorophyllous calli were induced from excised rice embryos. Chlorophyll contents in the callus tissue increased with increasing kinetin concentration while percent callus induction decreased. The total chlorophyll content was linearly correlated with the ratio of kinetin to NAA in the medium.

Evaluation of Cation Migration in Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Cathodes via In-operando X-ray Diffraction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hardy, John S.; Coyle, Christopher A.; Bonnett, Jeff F.

2018-01-28

Anode-supported SOFCs with LSCF-6428 cathodes were operated at various temperatures for hundreds of hours in dry or humid (~3% water) cathode air with continuous cathode XRD. Additionally, one cell in dry air was held at OCV and another had 12% CO2 added to the humid air. Long cumulative XRD count times allowed identification of minor phases at <0.1 wt%. In humid air, performance improved during the first couple of hundred hours and Fe-rich Fe,Co spinel XRD peaks gradually shifted to lower angles while nano-nodules formed on LSCF surfaces. With 12% CO2 added, performance degraded after initial activation, unlike without CO2,more » where stability followed activation. In CO2, LSCF XRD peaks shifted indicating gradual decomposition. In dry air, fast initial degradation that decelerated over time occurred at constant current while the cell at OCV was stable. At OCV and 750°C or at constant current and 700°C in dry air, Fe-rich spinel XRD peaks shifted more slowly than in humid air tests; Co-rich Fe,Co spinel peaks shifted to higher angles; and SEM discovered smaller nano-nodules on LSCF than after humid air tests. At constant current at 750°C and 800°C in dry air, no nano-nodules or gradual changes in the XRD patterns were discovered.« less

Characterization, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Aqueous Extracts of Allium sativum, Zingiber officinale, and Capsicum frutescens

PubMed Central

Otunola, Gloria Aderonke; Afolayan, Anthony Jide; Ajayi, Emmanuel Olusegun; Odeyemi, Samuel Wale

2017-01-01

Background: Herbal drug delivery is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability which can be overcome with suitable nanomaterials that will enhance their pharmacokinetics and performance. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from three spices. Materials and Methods: AgNPs were prepared using 0.1 M silver nitrate and aqueous extracts of Allium sativum L. (garlic), Zingiber officinale Rosc. (ginger), and Capsicum frutescens L. (cayenne pepper). The AgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Results: The AgNPs were formed within an hour of the reaction and showed maximum UV-Vis absorption in the 375–480 nm range. SEM and TEM revealed well-dispersed spherical particles with little agglomeration, average sizes of 3–6 nm, 3–22 nm, and 3–18 nm for garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper, respectively. FTIR showed that amine, protein, phenolic, aromatic, and alkynes groups contributed to AgNP synthesis and XRD confirmed their crystalline and face-centered cubic nature. Antibacterial action of the AgNPs was in the following order: ginger (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] <25 μg/mL) > garlic> cayenne pepper (MIC 125 μg/mL). Antioxidant action showed cayenne pepper > ginger > garlic (inhibitory concentration 50% [IC50]: 40, 240, and 250 μg/mL, respectively) against 2,2-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and garlic > cayenne pepper > ginger (IC50: <31.25, 40, and 120 μg/mL, respectively) against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Conclusion: Optimization of this green synthesis would support the production of AgNPs with great therapeutic potentials. SUMMARY The synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper were evaluatedThe AgNPs formed were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM and TEM microscopy, as well as EDX, XRD and FTIR spectroscopy AgNPs were well dispersed with spherical shapes and average sizes of 3-6nm, 3-22nm and 3-18 nm for garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper respectivelyAmine, protein, phenolic and alkyne groups were revealed as the capping agents for the nanoparticlesThe silver nanoparticles were confirmed to be crystalline with characteristic face centred cubic natureThe antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the AgNPs confirmed the therapeutic potential of the AgNPs. Abbreviations used: AgNPs: Silver nanoparticles; UV-Vis: ultraviolet-visible; SEM: Scanning electron microscopy; TEM: Transmission electron microscopy; EDX: Energy dispersive X-ray; XRD: X-ray diffraction; FTIR: Fourier transform infrared; GaNPs: Garlic nanoparticles; GiNPs: Ginger nanoparticles; C.PeNPs: Cayenne pepper nanoparticles; FCC: Face centred cubic; SPR: Surface Plasmon resonance; ABTS-2: 2-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid); DPPH-1: 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. PMID:28808381

Characterization, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Aqueous Extracts of Allium sativum, Zingiber officinale, and Capsicum frutescens.

PubMed

Otunola, Gloria Aderonke; Afolayan, Anthony Jide; Ajayi, Emmanuel Olusegun; Odeyemi, Samuel Wale

2017-07-01

Herbal drug delivery is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability which can be overcome with suitable nanomaterials that will enhance their pharmacokinetics and performance. This study aimed to analyze the synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from three spices. AgNPs were prepared using 0.1 M silver nitrate and aqueous extracts of Allium sativum L. (garlic), Zingiber officinale Rosc. (ginger), and Capsicum frutescens L. (cayenne pepper). The AgNPs were characterized using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The AgNPs were formed within an hour of the reaction and showed maximum UV-Vis absorption in the 375-480 nm range. SEM and TEM revealed well-dispersed spherical particles with little agglomeration, average sizes of 3-6 nm, 3-22 nm, and 3-18 nm for garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper, respectively. FTIR showed that amine, protein, phenolic, aromatic, and alkynes groups contributed to AgNP synthesis and XRD confirmed their crystalline and face-centered cubic nature. Antibacterial action of the AgNPs was in the following order: ginger (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] <25 μg/mL) > garlic> cayenne pepper (MIC 125 μg/mL). Antioxidant action showed cayenne pepper > ginger > garlic (inhibitory concentration 50% [IC50]: 40, 240, and 250 μg/mL, respectively) against 2,2-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and garlic > cayenne pepper > ginger (IC50: <31.25, 40, and 120 μg/mL, respectively) against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Optimization of this green synthesis would support the production of AgNPs with great therapeutic potentials. The synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper were evaluatedThe AgNPs formed were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM and TEM microscopy, as well as EDX, XRD and FTIR spectroscopy AgNPs were well dispersed with spherical shapes and average sizes of 3-6nm, 3-22nm and 3-18 nm for garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper respectivelyAmine, protein, phenolic and alkyne groups were revealed as the capping agents for the nanoparticlesThe silver nanoparticles were confirmed to be crystalline with characteristic face centred cubic natureThe antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the AgNPs confirmed the therapeutic potential of the AgNPs. Abbreviations used: AgNPs: Silver nanoparticles; UV-Vis: ultraviolet-visible; SEM: Scanning electron microscopy; TEM: Transmission electron microscopy; EDX: Energy dispersive X-ray; XRD: X-ray diffraction; FTIR: Fourier transform infrared; GaNPs: Garlic nanoparticles; GiNPs: Ginger nanoparticles; C.PeNPs: Cayenne pepper nanoparticles; FCC: Face centred cubic; SPR: Surface Plasmon resonance; ABTS-2: 2-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid); DPPH-1: 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl.

Infiltration of CdTe nano crystals into a ZnO wire vertical matrix by using the isothermal closed space technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larramendi, S.; Vaillant Roca, Lidice; Saint-Gregoire, Pierre; Ferraz Dias, Johnny; Behar, Moni

2017-10-01

A ZnO nanorod structure was grown by the hydrothermal method and interpenetrated with CdTe using the isothermal closed space sublimation technique. The obtained structure was studied by using the Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM). The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) technique confirmed the presence of CdTe nanocrystals (NCs) of very small size formed on the surface and in the interspaces between the ZnO nanorods. The RBS observations together with the SEM observations give information on the obtained structure. Finally the photoluminescence studies show a strong energy confinement effect on the grown CdTe NCs.

Influence of Zeolite Coating on the Corrosion Resistance of AZ91D Magnesium Alloy

PubMed Central

Banerjee, P. Chakraborty; Woo, Ren Ping; Grayson, Sam Matthew; Majumder, Amrita; Raman, R. K. Singh

2014-01-01

The protective performance of zeolite coating on AZ91D magnesium alloy was evaluated using potentiodynamic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 0.1 M sodium chloride solution (NaCl). Electrical equivalent circuit (EEC) was developed based upon hypothetical corrosion mechanisms and simulated to correspond to the experimental data. The morphology and the chemical nature of the coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Post corrosion morphologies of the zeolite coated and the uncoated AZ91D alloy were investigated using SEM. The corrosion resistance of the zeolite coated specimen was at least one order of magnitude higher than the uncoated specimen. PMID:28788178

Influence of Zeolite Coating on the Corrosion Resistance of AZ91D Magnesium Alloy.

PubMed

Banerjee, P Chakraborty; Woo, Ren Ping; Grayson, Sam Matthew; Majumder, Amrita; Raman, R K Singh

2014-08-22

The protective performance of zeolite coating on AZ91D magnesium alloy was evaluated using potentiodynamic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 0.1 M sodium chloride solution (NaCl). Electrical equivalent circuit (EEC) was developed based upon hypothetical corrosion mechanisms and simulated to correspond to the experimental data. The morphology and the chemical nature of the coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Post corrosion morphologies of the zeolite coated and the uncoated AZ91D alloy were investigated using SEM. The corrosion resistance of the zeolite coated specimen was at least one order of magnitude higher than the uncoated specimen.

Synthesis and transport characterization of electrochemically deposited CdTe nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaur, Jaskiran; Kaur, Harmanmeet; Singh, R. C.

2018-04-01

This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of CdTe nanowires. A thin polymeric films were irradiated with 80MeV Ag ions at a fluence of 8E7 ions/cm2, followed by UV irradiation and chemically etching in aqueous NaOH. Nanosizes go-through pores so formed were filled using a specially designed cell via electrodeposition. Nanowires so formed were further studied using SEM, I-V, UV and XRD analysis. SEM images show very smooth and uniform CdTe nanowires freely standing on the substrate. The in-situ I-V characteristics of nano-/micro structures was carried out at room temperature by leaving the structures embedded in the insulating template membrane itself.

Non-platinum metal-organic framework based electro-catalyst for promoting oxygen reduction reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Dipanwita; Raut, Vrushali; Kireeti, Kota V. M. K.; Jha, Neetu

2018-04-01

We developed two non-precious Metal Organic Framework (MOF) based electrocatalysts, MOF-5 and MOF-i using solvothermal and refluxing methods. The MOFs prepared has been characterized by powder X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for structural and morphological insights. SEM images reveal cubic shape for solvothermally synthesized MOF-5, whereas refluxing method leads to platelet morphology of MOF-i. The synthesized MOFs has been investigated for Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) studies using Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), with MOF modified Glassy Carbon (GC) as working electrode. The electrochemical data suggests higher activity of MOF-5 towards ORR compared to MOF-i.

Growth of vegetative explant Moringa oleifera on different composition of auxin and cytokinin and its synthetic seed germination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muslihatin, Wirdhatul; Jadid, Nurul; Puspitasari, Ika D.; Safitri, Chusnul E.

2017-06-01

The spread of Moringa oleifera is also rare for seed germination and viability or survival are low, and the lack of vegetative propagation method. The purpose of this study are to determine the effect of auxin and cytokinin on growth vegetative explants Moringa oleifera and its synthetic seed germination. The explants grown on MS medium with sucrose content of 30% and a range of additional hormone. Addition concentration and different types of hormone made in order to know the sensitivity and response explant growth on a variety of media to get a good callus and embryosomatic. The composition of the hormone given is MS + 2.4 D 3 ppm; MS + 2,4D 2 ppm + BAP 2 ppm; MS + NAA + 0.5 ppm kinetin 1 ppm; MS + NAA 1 ppm + kinetin 1 ppm; MS + NAA 1 ppm + 0.5 ppm kinetin. The explants were incubated at a temperature of 18-20 ° C with a photoperiod 16/8. Explants and MS medium is incubated to form embryonic callus. Seeds synthetic made from embryonic callus growing on medium 1 ppm kinetin + NAA 1 ppm with encapsulation method with sodium alginate 2%. Seed synthetic germinated in some kind of medium that medium ms0 solid (M1), ms0 liquid (M2), MS0 semi-solid (M3), MS solid NAA 1ppm + Kinetin 1 ppm (M4), MS liquid NAA 1 ppm + kinetin (M5), and semi-solid MS + NAA 1 ppm kinetin 1 ppm (M6). Synthetic seed viability was observed with the parameters of the fresh weight of synthetic seed, germination percentage and seedling. Chlorophyll content was measured by spectrophotometric method with solvent asseton. Best callus generated in this study are embryonic callus that grew on media NAA 1 ppm + kinetin 1 ppm. Embryonic callus on M6 + NAA 1 ppm kinetin 1 ppm capable of germination with an average weight of callus and sprouts of 40.38 mg. Of the entire amount of a synthetic seed on M6, just 5 seed germinate, so the percentage of germination of seeds is equal to 41.67%. with an average length of sprouts 1 cm with an average total chlorophyll content of 8.66 mg / g.

Thermoluminescence (TL) properties and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of high purity CaSO4:Dy TL material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamarudin, Nadira; Abdullah, Wan Saffiey Wan; Hamid, Muhammad Azmi Abdul; Dollah, Mohd Taufik

2014-09-01

This paper presents the characterization and TL properties of dysprosium (Dy) doped calcium sulfate (CaSO4) TL material produced by co-precipitation technique with 0.5mol% concentration of dopant. The morphology of the produced TL material was studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and the micrograph shows that rectangular parallelepiped shaped crystal with the average of 150 μm in length were produced. The crystallinity of the produced powder was studied using x-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The XRD spectra show that the TL material produced is high purity anhydrite CaSO4 with average crystallite size of 74 nm with orthorhombic crystal system. The TL behavior of produced CaSO4:Dy was studied using a TLD reader after exposure to gamma ray by Co60 source with the doses of 1,5 and 10 Gy. The glow curve shows linear response with glow peak around 230°C which is desired development in the field of radiation dosimetry.

Some critical aspects of FT-IR, TGA, powder XRD, EDAX and SEM studies of calcium oxalate urinary calculi.

PubMed

Joshi, Vimal S; Vasant, Sonal R; Bhatt, J G; Joshi, Mihir J

2014-06-01

Urinary calculi constitute one of the oldest afflictions of humans as well as animals, which are occurring globally. The calculi vary in shape, size and composition, which influence their clinical course. They are usually of the mixed-type with varying percentages of the ingredients. In medical management of urinary calculi, either the nature of calculi is to be known or the exact composition of calculi is required. In the present study, two selected calculi were recovered after surgery from two different patients for detailed examination and investigated by using Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDAX) techniques. The study demonstrated that the nature of urinary calculi and presence of major phase in mixed calculi could be identified by FT-IR, TGA and powder XRD, however, the exact content of various elements could be found by EDAX only.

Plasma Sprayed Hydroxyapatite Coatings: Influence of Spraying Power on Microstructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohd, S. M.; Abd, M. Z.; Abd, A. N.

2010-03-01

The plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings are used on metallic implants to enhance the bonding between the implant and bone in human body. The coating process was implemented at different spraying power for each spraying condition. The coatings formed from a rapid solidification of molten and partly molten particles that impact on the surface of substrate at high velocity and high temperature. The study was concentrated on different spraying power that is between 23 to 31 kW. The effect of different power on the coatings microstructure was investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and phase composition was evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The coatings surface morphology showed distribution of molten, partially melted particles and some micro-cracks. The produced coatings were found to be porous as observed from the cross-sectional morphology. The coatings XRD results indicated the presence of crystalline phase of HA and each of the patterns was similar to the initial powder. Regardless of different spraying power, all the coatings were having similar XRD patterns.

CdO-NPs; synthesis from 1D new nano Cd coordination polymer, characterization and application as anti-cancer drug for reducing the viability of cancer cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afzalian Mend, Behnaz; Delavar, Mahmoud; Darroudi, Majid

2017-04-01

The hexagonal CdO nano-particles (CdO-NPs) was prepared using new nano Cd coordination polymer, [Cd(NO3)(bipy)(pzca)]n (1) as a precursor, through direct calcination process at 500 °C. The precursor (1) was synthesized by sonochemical method. The new nano compound (1) was characterized by IR spectroscopy, elemental analyses, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermal gravimetric analyses. The structure of nano coordination polymer was determined by comparing the XRD pattern of nano and single-crystal of compound (1). The nano CdO was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). In addition, the activity and efficiency of nano CdO as an anti-cancer drug was studied on cancer cells with different concentration. The results shows that the viability of cancer cells reduced above 2 μg/mL of CdO-NPs concentration.

Investigation of composition and structure of spongy and hard bone tissue using FTIR spectroscopy, XRD and SEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Akhras, M.-Ali H.; Hasan Qaseer, M. K.; Albiss, B. A.; Alebrhim, M. Anwar; Gezawa, Umar S.

2018-02-01

Valuable structural and chemical features can be obtained for spongy and hard bone by infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. A better understanding of chemical and structural differences between spongy and hard bone is a very important contributor to bone quality. Our data according to IR data showed that the collagen cross-links occurred to be higher in spongy bone, and crystallinity was lower in spongy bone. Deconvolution of the infrared band near 870 cm-1 reveals evidence for A2-type carbonate substitution on hydroxyapatite of spongy bone in addition to the A and B type carbonate substitution that are also found in hard bone. IR and XRD data confirmed the results of each other since full width at half maximum of 002-apatite pattern of XRD showed that the crystallinity was lower in spongy bone. The microstructure was examined by using scanning electron microscope and the result showed that the lattice of thin threads in spongy bone and is less dense than hard bone.

Influences of Co doping on the structural and optical properties of ZnO nanostructured

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majeed Khan, M. A.; Wasi Khan, M.; Alhoshan, Mansour; Alsalhi, M. S.; Aldwayyan, A. S.

2010-07-01

Pure and Co-doped ZnO nanostructured samples have been synthesized by a chemical route. We have studied the structural and optical properties of the samples by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), field-emission transmission electron microscope (FETEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and UV-VIS spectroscopy. The XRD patterns show that all the samples are hexagonal wurtzite structures. Changes in crystallite size due to mechanical activation were also determined from X-ray measurements. These results were correlated with changes in particle size followed by SEM and TEM. The average crystallite sizes obtained from XRD were between 20 to 25 nm. The TEM images showed the average particle size of undoped ZnO nanostructure was about 20 nm whereas the smallest average grain size at 3% Co was about 15 nm. Optical parameters such as absorption coefficient ( α), energy band gap ( E g ), the refractive index ( n), and dielectric constants ( σ) have been determined using different methods.

Serial MR Spectroscopy Reveals a Direct Metabolic Effect of Cediranib in Glioblastoma

PubMed Central

Kim, Heisoog; Catana, Ciprian; Ratai, Eva-Maria; Andronesi, Ovidiu C.; Jennings, D.; Batchelor, Tracy T.; Jain, Rakesh K.; Sorensen, A. Gregory

2011-01-01

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) is increasingly used in clinical studies of brain tumor to provide information about tissue metabolic profiles. In this study, we evaluated changes in the levels of metabolites predominant in recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM), to characterize the response of rGBM to anti-angiogenic therapy. We examined thirty-one rGBM patients treated with daily doses of cediranib, acquiring serial chemical shift imaging data at specific time points during the treatment regimen. We defined spectra from three regions of interest (ROIs)—enhancing tumor (ET), peritumoral tissue (PT), and normal tissue on the contralateral side (cNT)—in post-contrast T1-weighted images, and normalized the concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and choline (Cho) in each ROI to the concentration of creatine in cNT (norCre). We analyzed the ratios of these normalized metabolites (i.e., NAA/Cho, NAA/norCre, and Cho/norCre) by averaging all patients and categorizing two different survival groups. Relative to pre-treatment values, NAA/Cho in ET was unchanged through day 28. However, after day 28, NAA/Cho significantly increased in relation to a significant increase in NAA/norCre and a decrease in Cho/norCre; interestingly, the observed trend was reversed after day 56, consistent with the clinical course of GBM recurrence. Notably, ROC analysis indicated that NAA/Cho in tumor shows a high prediction to 6-month overall survival. These metabolic changes in these rGBM patients strongly suggest a direct metabolic effect of cediranib, and might also reflect an anti-tumor response to anti-angiogenic treatment during the first two months of treatment. Further study is needed to confirm these findings. PMID:21507932

Low thalamic NAA-concentration corresponds to strong neural activation in working memory in Kleine-Levin syndrome.

PubMed

Vigren, Patrick; Tisell, Anders; Engström, Maria; Karlsson, Thomas; Leinhard Dahlqvist, Olof; Lundberg, Peter; Landtblom, Anne-Marie

2013-01-01

Kleine Levin Syndrome (KLS) is a rare disorder of periodic hypersomnia and behavioural disturbances in young individuals. It has previously been shown to be associated with disturbances of working memory (WM), which, in turn, was associated with higher activation of the thalamus with increasing WM load, demonstrated with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). In this study we aimed to further elucidate how these findings are related to the metabolism of the thalamus. fMRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy were applied while performing a WM task. Standard metabolites were examined: n-acetylaspartate (NAA), myo-inositol, choline, creatine and glutamate-glutamine. Fourteen KLS-patients and 15 healthy controls participated in the study. The patients with active disease were examined in asymptomatic periods. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between thalamic fMRI-activation and thalamic NAA, i.e., high fMRI-activation corresponded to low NAA-levels. This correlation was not seen in healthy controls. Thalamic levels of NAA in patients and controls showed no significant differences between the groups. None of the other metabolites showed any co-variation with fMRI-activation. This study shows negative correlation between NAA-levels and fMRI-activity in the left thalamus of KLS-patients while performing a WM task. This correlation could not be found in healthy control subjects, primarily interpreted as an effect of increased effort in the patient group upon performing the task. It might indicate a disturbance in the neuronal networks responsible for WM in KLS patients, resulting in higher effort at lower WM load, compared with healthy subjects. The general relationship between NAA and BOLD-signal is also discussed in the article.

Analysis of the posterior cingulate cortex with [18F]FDG-PET and Naa/mI in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: Correlations and differences between the two methods.

PubMed

Coutinho, Artur M N; Porto, Fábio H G; Zampieri, Poliana F; Otaduy, Maria C; Perroco, Tíbor R; Oliveira, Maira O; Nunes, Rafael F; Pinheiro, Toulouse Leusin; Bottino, Cassio M C; Leite, Claudia C; Buchpiguel, Carlos A

2015-01-01

Reduction of regional brain glucose metabolism (rBGM) measured by [18F]FDG-PET in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) has been associated with a higher conversion rate from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is a potential biomarker that has disclosed Naa/mI reductions within the PCC in both MCI and AD. Studies investigating the relationships between the two modalities are scarce. To evaluate differences and possible correlations between the findings of rBGM and NAA/mI in the PCC of individuals with AD, MCI and of cognitively normal volunteers. Patients diagnosed with AD (N=32) or MCI (N=27) and cognitively normal older adults (CG, N=28), were submitted to [18F]FDG-PET and MRS to analyze the PCC. The two methods were compared and possible correlations between the modalities were investigated. The AD group exhibited rBGM reduction in the PCC when compared to the CG but not in the MCI group. MRS revealed lower NAA/mI values in the AD group compared to the CG but not in the MCI group. A positive correlation between rBGM and NAA/mI in the PCC was found. NAA/mI reduction in the PCC differentiated AD patients from control subjects with an area under the ROC curve of 0.70, while [18F]FDG-PET yielded a value of 0.93. rBGM and Naa/mI in the PCC were positively correlated in patients with MCI and AD. [18F]FDG-PET had greater accuracy than MRS for discriminating AD patients from controls.

Accuracy of noninvasive quantification of brain NAA concentrations using PRESS sequence: verification in a swine model with external standard.

PubMed

Wu, R H; Lin, R; Li, H; Xiao, Z W; Rao, H B; Luo, W H; Guo, G; Huang, K; Zhang, X G; Lang, Z J

2005-01-01

The metabolite ratios had been employed in the field of MR spectroscopy (MRS) for a long period. The main drawback of metabolite ratio is that ratio results are not comparable with absolute metabolite concentration in vivo. The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of noninvasive quantification of brain N-acetylaspartate (NAA) concentrations using previously reported MR external standard method. Eight swine were scanned on a GE 1.5 T scanner with a standard head coil. The external standard method was utilized with a sphere filled with NAA, GABA, glutamine, glutamate, creatine, choline chloride, and myo-inositol. The position resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) sequence was used with TE=135 msec, TR=1500 msec, and 128 scan averages. The analysis of MRS was done with SAGE/IDL program. In vivo NAA concentration was obtained using the equation S=N * e(-TE/T₂) * [1-e(-TR/T₁). In vitro NAA concentration was measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In the MRS group, the mean concentration of NAA was 10.03 plusmn 0.74 mmol/kg. In the HPLC group, the mean concentration of NAA was 9.22 plusmn 0.55 mmol/kg. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.46). However, slightly higher value was observed in the MRS group (7/8 swine), compared with HPLC group. The range of differences was between 0.02~2.05 mmol/kg. MRS external reference method could be more accurate than internal reference method. ¹H MRS does not distinguish between N-acetyl resonance frequencies and other N-acetylated amino acids.

Analysis of the posterior cingulate cortex with [18F]FDG-PET and Naa/mI in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: Correlations and differences between the two methods

PubMed Central

Coutinho, Artur M.N.; Porto, Fábio H.G.; Zampieri, Poliana F.; Otaduy, Maria C.; Perroco, Tíbor R.; Oliveira, Maira O.; Nunes, Rafael F.; Pinheiro, Toulouse Leusin; Bottino, Cassio M.C.; Leite, Claudia C.; Buchpiguel, Carlos A.

2015-01-01

Reduction of regional brain glucose metabolism (rBGM) measured by [18F]FDG-PET in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) has been associated with a higher conversion rate from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) is a potential biomarker that has disclosed Naa/mI reductions within the PCC in both MCI and AD. Studies investigating the relationships between the two modalities are scarce. Objective To evaluate differences and possible correlations between the findings of rBGM and NAA/mI in the PCC of individuals with AD, MCI and of cognitively normal volunteers. Methods Patients diagnosed with AD (N=32) or MCI (N=27) and cognitively normal older adults (CG, N=28), were submitted to [18F]FDG-PET and MRS to analyze the PCC. The two methods were compared and possible correlations between the modalities were investigated. Results The AD group exhibited rBGM reduction in the PCC when compared to the CG but not in the MCI group. MRS revealed lower NAA/mI values in the AD group compared to the CG but not in the MCI group. A positive correlation between rBGM and NAA/mI in the PCC was found. NAA/mI reduction in the PCC differentiated AD patients from control subjects with an area under the ROC curve of 0.70, while [18F]FDG-PET yielded a value of 0.93. Conclusion rBGM and Naa/mI in the PCC were positively correlated in patients with MCI and AD. [18F]FDG-PET had greater accuracy than MRS for discriminating AD patients from controls. PMID:29213988

Parkinson's disease: in vivo metabolic changes in the frontal and parietal cortices in 6-OHDA treated rats during different periods.

PubMed

Hou, Zhongyu; Zhang, Zhonghe; Meng, Haiwei; Lin, Xiangtao; Sun, Bo; Lei, Hao; Fang, Ke; Fang, Fang; Liu, Maili; Liu, Shuwei

2014-02-01

This study aims to investigate metabolic changes in frontal and parietal cortices in the 6-OHDA induced Parkinson's rats. Ratios of N-acetyl-aspartic acid/creatine (NAA/Cr), choline/creatine (Cho/Cr), and glumatic acid and glutamine glutaminic acid/creatine (Glx/Cr) of regions of interests (ROIs) in the frontal and parietal cortices, and the substantia nigra were analyzed. NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and Glx/Cr in the frontal and parietal cortices in the lesion side did not show any significant differences two weeks after operation compared with the contralateral side (p > 0.05). NAA/Cr in the frontal cortex in the lesion side was significantly lower in the five weeks after operation; Cho/Cr remained normal; Glx/Cr increased (p < 0.05), and all ratios of parietal cortex were normal. In the eight weeks after operation, NAA/Cr in the frontal cortex in the lesion side was lower than that of the five weeks (p < 0.01), Cho/Cr still remained normal while Glx/Cr was higher than before (p < 0.01). Regarding the parietal cortex, NAA/Cr increased significantly, while Cho/Cr and Glx/Cr remained normal. In the 12 weeks after operation, NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr and Glx/Cr in frontal cortex were consistent with that of the eight weeks, while they remained at the normal level in parietal cortex. The NAA/Cr in the substantia nigra decreased and Cho/Cr increased significantly during 2-8 weeks, and remained at the same level during 8-12 weeks. There are metabolic disturbances in PD rats. The transient hyperfunction in the parietal cortex can be considered as a compensation for the dysfunction of the frontal cortex and substantia nigra.

1H-MR spectroscopy and diffusion tensor imaging of normal-appearing temporal white matter in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma after irradiation: initial experience.

PubMed

Xiong, Wei Feng; Qiu, Shi Jun; Wang, Hong Zhuo; Lv, Xiao Fei

2013-01-01

To detect radiation-induced changes of temporal lobe normal-appearing white mater (NAWM) following radiation therapy (RT) for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Seventy-five H(1)-MR spectroscopy and diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) examinations were performed in 55 patients before and after receiving fractionated radiation therapy (total dose; 66-75GY). We divided the dataset into six groups, a pre-RT control group and five other groups based on time after completion of RT. N-acetylaspartic acid (NAA)/choline (Cho), NAA/creatine (Cr), Cho/Cr, mean diffusibility (MD), functional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusibility (λ(⊥)), and axial diffusibility (λ(||)) were calculated. NAA/Cho and NAA/Cr decreased and λ(⊥) increased significantly within 1 year after RT compared with pre-RT. After 1 year, NAA/Cho, NAA/Cr, and λ(⊥) were not significantly different from pre-RT. In all post-RT groups, FA decreased significantly. λ(||) decreased within 9 months after RT compared with pre-RT, but was not significantly different from pre-RT more than 9 months after RT. DTI and H(1)-MR spectroscopy can be used to detect early radiation-induced changes of temporal lobe NAWM following radiation therapy for NPC. Metabolic alterations and water diffusion characteristics of temporal lobe NAWM in patients with NPC after RT were dynamic and transient. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

N-acetylaspartate catabolism determines cytosolic acetyl-CoA levels and histone acetylation in brown adipocytes

PubMed Central

Prokesch, A.; Pelzmann, H. J.; Pessentheiner, A. R.; Huber, K.; Madreiter-Sokolowski, C. T.; Drougard, A.; Schittmayer, M.; Kolb, D.; Magnes, C.; Trausinger, G.; Graier, W. F.; Birner-Gruenberger, R.; Pospisilik, J. A.; Bogner-Strauss, J. G.

2016-01-01

Histone acetylation depends on the abundance of nucleo-cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA. Here, we present a novel route for cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA production in brown adipocytes. N-acetylaspartate (NAA) is a highly abundant brain metabolite catabolized by aspartoacylase yielding aspartate and acetate. The latter can be further used for acetyl-CoA production. Prior to this work, the presence of NAA has not been described in adipocytes. Here, we show that accumulation of NAA decreases the brown adipocyte phenotype. We increased intracellular NAA concentrations in brown adipocytes via media supplementation or knock-down of aspartoacylase and measured reduced lipolysis, thermogenic gene expression, and oxygen consumption. Combinations of approaches to increase intracellular NAA levels showed additive effects on lipolysis and gene repression, nearly abolishing the expression of Ucp1, Cidea, Prdm16, and Ppara. Transcriptome analyses of aspartoacylase knock-down cells indicate deficiencies in acetyl-CoA and lipid metabolism. Concordantly, cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA levels and global histone H3 acetylation were decreased. Further, activating histone marks (H3K27ac and H3K9ac) in promoters/enhancers of brown marker genes showed reduced acetylation status. Taken together, we present a novel route for cytoplasmic acetyl-CoA production in brown adipocytes. Thereby, we mechanistically connect the NAA pathway to the epigenomic regulation of gene expression, modulating the phenotype of brown adipocytes. PMID:27045997

Engineering of Surface Chemistry for Enhanced Sensitivity in Nanoporous Interferometric Sensing Platforms.

PubMed

Law, Cheryl Suwen; Sylvia, Georgina M; Nemati, Madieh; Yu, Jingxian; Losic, Dusan; Abell, Andrew D; Santos, Abel

2017-03-15

We explore new approaches to engineering the surface chemistry of interferometric sensing platforms based on nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) and reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS). Two surface engineering strategies are presented, namely (i) selective chemical functionalization of the inner surface of NAA pores with amine-terminated thiol molecules and (ii) selective chemical functionalization of the top surface of NAA with dithiol molecules. The strong molecular interaction of Au 3+ ions with thiol-containing functional molecules of alkane chain or peptide character provides a model sensing system with which to assess the sensitivity of these NAA platforms by both molecular feature and surface engineering. Changes in the effective optical thickness of the functionalized NAA photonic films (i.e., sensing principle), in response to gold ions, are monitored in real-time by RIfS. 6-Amino-1-hexanethiol (inner surface) and 1,6-hexanedithiol (top surface), the most sensitive functional molecules from approaches i and ii, respectively, were combined into a third sensing strategy whereby the NAA platforms are functionalized on both the top and inner surfaces concurrently. Engineering of the surface according to this approach resulted in an additive enhancement in sensitivity of up to 5-fold compared to previously reported systems. This study advances the rational engineering of surface chemistry for interferometric sensing on nanoporous platforms with potential applications for real-time monitoring of multiple analytes in dynamic environments.

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings in photosensitive idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

PubMed

Aydin-Ozemir, Zeynep; Terzibasioglu, Ege; Altindag, Ebru; Sencer, Serra; Baykan, Betul

2010-01-01

Studies investigating the pathophysiology of epileptic photosensitivity indicate variable involvement of particular brain regions. Our aim was to identify metabolic differences between photosensitive idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) patients and nonphotosensitive IGE patients and normal healthy subjects by using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS). Fourteen patients diagnosed with photosensitive IGE were investigated. The control groups consisted of 14 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers and 14 IGE patients without photosensitivity. MRS measurements of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline-containing compounds (Cho), creatine (Cr) were performed in the frontal and occipital cortex and the thalamus bilaterally using a stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) technique with a voxel size of 20 x 20 x 20 mm. The values of the patients with IGE were compared with those of the normal controls and within subgroups according to the clinical variables by appropriate statistical tests. Photosensitive IGE patients showed significantly decreased concentrations of NAA in the right frontal lobe and left thalamus, decreased NAA/Cr ratio in left thalamus and significantly increased concentrations of Cho/Cr ratio in the right frontal lobe and NAA/Cr in the left occipital lobe when compared to normal controls. Furthermore, left occipital NAA concentration increased and left thalamus NAA/Cr ratios were decreased from the IGE patients without photosensitivity but without reaching statistical significance. Our results support previous MR studies suggesting an asymmetrical neuronal dysfunction in favor of the dominant occipital cortex and thalamus in photosensitive IGE patients.

Reduced N-acetylaspartate content in the frontal part of the brain in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Christiansen, P; Schlosser, A; Henriksen, O

1995-01-01

The fully relaxed water signal was used as an internal standard in a STEAM experiment to calculate the concentrations of the metabolites: N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine + phosphocreatine [Cr + PCr], and choline-containing metabolites (Cho) in the frontal part of the brain in 12 patients with probable Alzheimer's disease. Eight age-matched healthy volunteers served as controls. Furthermore, T1 and T2 relaxation times of the metabolites and signal ratios: NAA/Cho, NAA/[Cr + PCr], and [Cr + PCr]/Cho at four different echo times (TE) and two different repetition times (TR) were calculated. The experiments were carried out using a Siemens Helicon SP 63/84 wholebody MR-scanner at 1.5 T. The concentration of NAA was significantly lower in the patients with probable Alzheimer's disease than in the healthy volunteers. No significant difference was found for any other metabolite concentration. For the signal ratios the only statistically significant difference was that the NAA/Cho ratio at TE = 92 ms and TR = 1.6 s was lower in the patients with probable Alzheimer's disease compared with the control group. A trend towards a longer T2 relaxation time for NAA in the patients with probable Alzheimer's disease than among the healthy volunteers was found, but no significant difference was found concerning the T1 and T2 relaxation times.

Optimization of adventitious root culture for production of biomass and secondary metabolites in Prunella vulgaris L.

PubMed

Fazal, Hina; Abbasi, Bilal Haider; Ahmad, Nisar

2014-11-01

Adventitious root cultures of Prunella vulgaris L. were established in shaking flask system for the production of biomass and secondary metabolites. Adventitious root cultures were induced from callus cultures obtained from leaf explants on solid Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing combination of 6-benzyladenine (BA; 1.0 mg l(-1)) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA; 1.5 mg l(-1)). Thereafter, 0.49 g inoculum was transferred to liquid MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of NAA (0.5-2.0 mg l(-1)). Growth kinetics of adventitious roots was recorded with an interval of 7 days for 49 days period. Highest biomass accumulation (2.13 g/l) was observed in liquid medium containing 1.0 mg l(-1) NAA after 21 days of inoculation. However, other concentrations of NAA also showed similar accumulation pattern but the biomass gradually decreases after 49 days of inoculation. Adventitious roots were collected and dried for investigation of total phenolics (TP), total flavonoids (TF), and antioxidant activities. Higher TPC (0.995 GAE mg/g-DRB) and TFC (6.615 RE mg/g-DRB) were observed in 0.5 mg l(-1) NAA treated cultures. In contrast, higher antioxidant activity (83.53 %) was observed 1.5 mg l(-1) NAA treated cultures. These results are helpful in up scaling of root cultures into bioreactor for secondary metabolites production.

Proteomic and genomic characterization of a yeast model for Ogden syndrome

PubMed Central

Dörfel, Max J.; Fang, Han; Crain, Jonathan; Klingener, Michael; Weiser, Jake

2016-01-01

Abstract Naa10 is an Nα‐terminal acetyltransferase that, in a complex with its auxiliary subunit Naa15, co‐translationally acetylates the α‐amino group of newly synthetized proteins as they emerge from the ribosome. Roughly 40–50% of the human proteome is acetylated by Naa10, rendering this an enzyme one of the most broad substrate ranges known. Recently, we reported an X‐linked disorder of infancy, Ogden syndrome, in two families harbouring a c.109 T > C (p.Ser37Pro) variant in NAA10. In the present study we performed in‐depth characterization of a yeast model of Ogden syndrome. Stress tests and proteomic analyses suggest that the S37P mutation disrupts Naa10 function and reduces cellular fitness during heat shock, possibly owing to dysregulation of chaperone expression and accumulation. Microarray and RNA‐seq revealed a pseudo‐diploid gene expression profile in ΔNaa10 cells, probably responsible for a mating defect. In conclusion, the data presented here further support the disruptive nature of the S37P/Ogden mutation and identify affected cellular processes potentially contributing to the severe phenotype seen in Ogden syndrome. Data are available via GEO under identifier GSE86482 or with ProteomeXchange under identifier PXD004923. © 2016 The Authors. Yeast published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID:27668839

Corrosion Properties of SAC305 Solder in Different Solution of HCl and NaCl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nurwahida, M. Z.; Mukridz, M. M.; Ahmad, A. M.; Muhammad, F. M. N.

2018-03-01

Potentiodynamic polarization was used to studied the corrosion properties of SAC305 solder in different solution of 1.0 M HCl and 3.5 wt.% NaCl using the same scanning rate of 1.0 mV/s. The polarization curves indicated that corrosion in NaCl was less severe than in HCl solution based on corrosion current and passivation behavior obtained. Morphology and phases obtained after corrosion using SEM and XRD were analyzed. Microstructure analysis shows the present of compact corrosion product with presence of larger flake for polarization in NaCl compared to HCl. Phases present in XRD analysis confirmed the present of SnO and SnO2 corrosion product for sample from both solutions.

[Application of SPSS orthogonal design in tissue culture of Anoectochilus roxburghii].

PubMed

Zhang, Fusheng; Guo, Shunxing

2009-10-01

To study the effect of the different constitutions of plant hormone on the development of Anoectochilus roxburghii. A. roxburghii were harvested after having been cultured for 60 days. An orthogonal design was used to study the effect of NAA and 6-BA on the leaf number, eustipe number, lateral branch number of the stem tip and stem section, and the height of the stem tips. All of the data were processed by SPSS. It is reported for the first time that NAA could make different development of A. roxburghii at low concentration ( < 1 mg L(-1)) and high concentration ( > 1 mg L(-1)). The optimum constitution of MS medium was NAA 0.5 mg L(-1) + 6-BA 1 mg L(-1) for the growth of the stem tip of A. roxburghii, and NAA 1 mg L(-1) + 6-BA 2 mg L(-1) for the differentiation of bud and the formation of lateral branch of the stem section. The different concentrations of NAA and 6-BA had different effects on the growth and differentiation of the stem tip and the stem section of A. roxburghii.

Advances in the mechanism and understanding of site-selective noncanonical amino acid incorporation.

PubMed

Antonczak, Alicja K; Morris, Josephine; Tippmann, Eric M

2011-08-01

There are many approaches to introduce non-native functionality into proteins either translationally or post-translationally. When a noncanonical amino acid (NAA) is incorporated translationally, the host organism's existing translational machinery is relied upon to insert the amino acid by the same well-established mechanisms used by the host to achieve high fidelity insertion of its canonical amino acids. Research into the in vivo incorporation of NAAs has typically concentrated on evolving or engineering aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (aaRSs); however, new studies have increasingly focused on other members of the translational apparatus, for example entire ribosomes, in attempts to increase the fidelity and efficiency of incorporation of ever more structurally diverse NAAs. As the biochemical methods of NAA systems increase in complexity, it is informative to ask whether the 'rules' for canonical translation (i.e. aaRSs, tRNA, ribosomes, elongation factors, amino acid uptake, and metabolism) hold for NAA systems, or whether new rules are warranted. Here, recent advances in introducing novel chemical functionality into proteins are highlighted. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Posterior cingulate γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate/glutamine are reduced in amnestic mild cognitive impairment and are unrelated to amyloid deposition and apolipoprotein E genotype

PubMed Central

Riese, Florian; Gietl, Anton; Zölch, Niklaus; Henning, Anke; O’Gorman, Ruth; Kälin, Andrea M.; Leh, Sandra E.; Buck, Alfred; Warnock, Geoffrey; Edden, Richard A.E.; Luechinger, Roger; Hock, Christoph; Kollias, Spyros; Michels, Lars

2017-01-01

The biomarker potential of the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) for the in vivo characterization of preclinical stages in Alzheimer’s disease has not yet been explored. We measured GABA, glutamate + glutamine (Glx), and N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) levels by single-voxel MEGA-PRESS magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the posterior cingulate cortex of 21 elderly subjects and 15 patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Participants underwent Pittsburgh Compound B positron emission tomography, apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotyping, and neuropsychological examination. GABA, Glx, and NAA levels were significantly lower in patients. NAA was lower in Pittsburgh Compound B-positive subjects and APOE ε4 allele carriers. GABA, Glx, and NAA levels were positively correlated to CERAD word learning scores. Reductions in GABA, Glx, and NAA levels may serve as metabolic biomarkers for cognitive impairment in amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Because GABA and Glx do not seem to reflect amyloid β deposition or APOE genotype, they are less likely biomarker candidates for preclinical Alzheimer’s disease. PMID:25169676

Interferometric nanoporous anodic alumina photonic coatings for optical sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuting; Santos, Abel; Wang, Ye; Kumeria, Tushar; Wang, Changhai; Li, Junsheng; Losic, Dusan

2015-04-01

Herein, we present a systematic study on the development, optical optimization and sensing applicability of colored photonic coatings based on nanoporous anodic alumina films grown on aluminum substrates. These optical nanostructures, so-called distributed Bragg reflectors (NAA-DBRs), are fabricated by galvanostatic pulse anodization process, in which the current density is altered in a periodic manner in order to engineer the effective medium of the resulting photonic coatings. As-prepared NAA-DBR photonic coatings present brilliant interference colors on the surface of aluminum, which can be tuned at will within the UV-visible spectrum by means of the anodization profile. A broad library of NAA-DBR colors is produced by means of different anodization profiles. Then, the effective medium of these NAA-DBR photonic coatings is systematically assessed in terms of optical sensitivity, low limit of detection and linearity by reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) in order to optimize their nanoporous structure toward optical sensors with enhanced sensing performance. Finally, we demonstrate the applicability of these photonic nanostructures as optical platforms by selectively detecting gold(iii) ions in aqueous solutions. The obtained results reveal that optimized NAA-DBR photonic coatings can achieve an outstanding sensing performance for gold(iii) ions, with a sensitivity of 22.16 nm μM-1, a low limit of detection of 0.156 μM (i.e. 30.7 ppb) and excellent linearity within the working range (0.9983).Herein, we present a systematic study on the development, optical optimization and sensing applicability of colored photonic coatings based on nanoporous anodic alumina films grown on aluminum substrates. These optical nanostructures, so-called distributed Bragg reflectors (NAA-DBRs), are fabricated by galvanostatic pulse anodization process, in which the current density is altered in a periodic manner in order to engineer the effective medium of the resulting photonic coatings. As-prepared NAA-DBR photonic coatings present brilliant interference colors on the surface of aluminum, which can be tuned at will within the UV-visible spectrum by means of the anodization profile. A broad library of NAA-DBR colors is produced by means of different anodization profiles. Then, the effective medium of these NAA-DBR photonic coatings is systematically assessed in terms of optical sensitivity, low limit of detection and linearity by reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) in order to optimize their nanoporous structure toward optical sensors with enhanced sensing performance. Finally, we demonstrate the applicability of these photonic nanostructures as optical platforms by selectively detecting gold(iii) ions in aqueous solutions. The obtained results reveal that optimized NAA-DBR photonic coatings can achieve an outstanding sensing performance for gold(iii) ions, with a sensitivity of 22.16 nm μM-1, a low limit of detection of 0.156 μM (i.e. 30.7 ppb) and excellent linearity within the working range (0.9983). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: The Supporting Information file provides further information about real-time monitoring of ΔOTeff with changes in the refractive index of the medium filling the nanopores, demonstration of visual red shift in a NAA-DBR sample after infiltration with isopropanol and calculations of linearity (R2) for each NAA-DBR coating. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr00369e

Preparation of meta-stable phases of barium titanate by Sol-hydrothermal method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Selvaraj, Mahalakshmi; Department of Material Science, School of Chemistry, Madurai Kamaraj University, Tamilnadu Madurai-625 021; Venkatachalapathy, V.

2015-11-15

Two low-cost chemical methods of sol–gel and the hydrothermal process have been strategically combined to fabricate barium titanate (BaTiO{sub 3}) nanopowders. This method was tested for various synthesis temperatures (100 °C to 250 °C) employing barium dichloride (BaCl{sub 2}) and titanium tetrachloride (TiCl{sub 4}) as precursors and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as mineralizer for synthesis of BaTiO{sub 3} nanopowders. The as-prepared BaTiO{sub 3} powders were investigated for structural characteristics using x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The overall analysis indicates that the hydrothermal conditions create a gentle environment to promote the formation of crystalline phasemore » directly from amorphous phase at the very low processing temperatures investigated. XRD analysis showed phase transitions from cubic - tetragonal - orthorhombic - rhombohedral with increasing synthesis temperature and calculated grain sizes were 34 – 38 nm (using the Scherrer formula). SEM and TEM analysis verified that the BaTiO{sub 3} nanopowders synthesized by this method were spherical in shape and about 114 - 170 nm in size. The particle distribution in both SEM and TEM shows that as the reaction temperature increases from 100 °C to 250 °C, the particles agglomerate. Selective area electron diffraction (SAED) shows that the particles are crystalline in nature. The study shows that choosing suitable precursor and optimizing pressure and temperature; different meta-stable (ferroelectric) phases of undoped BaTiO{sub 3} nanopowders can be stabilized by the sol-hydrothermal method.« less

[The "silica" component in the PM10 of an urban site].

PubMed

De Berardis, Barbara; Incocciati, Emma; Massera, S; Gargaro, G; Paoletti, L

2007-01-01

In vivo and in vitro toxicological studies have shown that the aged fracturated crystalline silica, which is a component of airborne particulate, exerts an important inflammatory action on airways. The evaluation of the concentration level of airborne crystalline silica in an urban area is an important research subject in order to determine the exposure levels of the general population. The aim was to study the seasonal trend of the quartz (the most common form of crystalline silica) concentration levels in the particulate inhalable faction (PM10) in the urban area of Rome. PM10, sampled by a cascade impactor, was analysed by scanning electron microscopy, equipped with a thin-window system for X-ray microanalysis (SEM/EDX) for qualitative analysis. Parallely the concentration levels of quartz in the particulate were determined by X-ray diffractometry (XRD) for quantitative analysis, using the NIOSH 7500 method (NIOSH, 1994). From September 2004 to October 2005 the abundance of silica particles, evaluated by SEM/EDX was in the range 1.6/10.4%, with a concentration level of free crystalline silica in the range 0.25/2.87 microg/mi. The equivalent diameter of silica particles ranged from 0.3 to 10.5 mircom, moreover, more than 87% of particles showed a diameter less than 2.5 microm. The correlations between SEM/EDX and XRD data seem to suggest that the airborne silica particles in the urban location studied consisted mostly of crystalline silica. Moreover, the data suggest the existence of a significant contribution of silica particles due to southwest wind carrying a fine dust from the Sahara desert to Mediterranean Europe.

Oxide Scales Formed on NiTi and NiPtTi Shape Memory Alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smialek, James L.; Garg, Anita; Rogers, Richard B.; Noebe, Ronald D.

2011-01-01

Ni-49Ti and Ni-30Pt-50Ti (at.%) shape memory alloys were oxidized isothermally in air over the temperature range of 500 to 900 C. The microstructure, composition, and phase content of the scales were studied by SEM, EDS, XRD, and metallography. Extensive plan view SEM/EDS identified various features of intact or spalled scale surfaces. The outer surface of the scale was a relatively pure TiO2 rutile structure, typified by a distinct highly striated and faceted crystal morphology. Crystal size increased significantly with temperature. Spalled regions exhibited some porosity and less distinct features. More detailed information was obtained by correlation of SEM/EDS studies of 700 C/100 hr cross-sections with XRD analyses of serial or taper-polishing of plan surfaces. Overall, multiple layers exhibited graded mixtures of NiO, TiO2, NiTiO3, Ni(Ti) or Pt(Ni,Ti) metal dispersoids, Ni3Ti or Pt3Ti depletion zones, and substrate, in that order. The NiTi alloy contained a 3 at.% Fe impurity that appeared in embedded localized Fe-Ti-rich oxides, while the NiPtTi alloy contained a 2 v/o dispersion of TiC that appeared in lower layers. The oxidation kinetics of both alloys (in a previous report) indicated parabolic growth and an activation energy (250 kJ/mole) near those reported in other Ti and NiTi studies. This is generally consistent with TiO2 existing as the primary scale constituent, as described here.

Evaluation of poly (vinyl alcohol) based cryogel-zinc oxide nanocomposites for possible applications as wound dressing materials.

PubMed

Chaturvedi, Archana; Bajpai, Anil K; Bajpai, Jaya; K Singh, Sunil

2016-08-01

In this investigation cryogels composed of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were prepared by repeated freeze thaw method followed by in situ precipitation of zinc oxide nanoparticles within the cryogel networks. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to characterize the nanocomposites. The morphologies of native PVA cryogels and PVA cryogel-ZnO nanocomposites were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The SEM analysis suggested that cryogels show a well-defined porous morphology whereas TEM micrographs revealed the presence of nearly spherical and well separated zinc oxide nanoparticles with diameter<100nm. XRD results showed all relevant Bragg's reflections for crystal structure of zinc oxide nanoparticles. Thermo gravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA) was conducted to evaluate thermal stability of the nanocomposites. Mechanical properties of nanocomposites were determined in terms of tensile strength and percent elongation. Biocompatible nature was ascertained by anti-haemolytic activity, bovine serum albumin (blood protein) adsorption and in vitro cytotoxicity tests. The prepared nanocomposites were also investigated for swelling and deswelling behaviours. The results revealed that both the swelling and deswelling process depend on the chemical composition of the nanocomposites, number of freeze-thaw cycles, pH and temperature of the swelling medium. The developed biocompatible PVA cryogel-ZnO nanocomposites were also tested for antibacterial activities against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanoparticles of ZrPO4 for green catalytic applications.

PubMed

Sreenivasulu, Peta; Pendem, Chandrasekhar; Viswanadham, Nagabhatla

2014-12-21

Here we report the successful room temperature synthesis of zirconium phosphate nanoparticles (ZPNP) using the P123 tri-co-block polymer for the first time. The samples were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, TPD, and BET and were employed for fixation of CO2 on aniline to produce pharmaceutically important acetanilide under mild reaction conditions (150 °C and 150 Psi CO2 pressure).

GeSn/Si Avalanche Photodetectors on Si substrates

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-16

of processes for different photo detectors. In-depth of study has been conducted for GeSn photo conductors and photodiodes. A summary of the...The material growth mechanism was in-depth studied; secondly, the material and optical characterizations have been conducted , including SEM, TEM, XRD...investigated. The material growth mechanism was in-depth studied; secondly, the material and optical characterizations have been conducted , including

Symposium LL: Nanowires--Synthesis Properties Assembly and Application

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-10

dedicated hard x - ray microscopy beamline is operated in partnership with the Advanced Photon Source to provide fluorescence, diffraction, and...characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X - ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, proving it to be...Investigation of Preferred Growth Direction of GaN Nanorods by Synchrotron X - ray Reciprocal Space Mapping. Yuri Sohn1, Sanghwa Lee1, Chinkyo Kim1 and Dong

Corrosion resistance and in-vitro bioactivity of BaO containing Na2O-CaO-P2O5 phosphate glass-ceramic coating prepared on 316 L, duplex stainless steel 2205 and Ti6Al4V

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edathazhe, Akhila B.; Shashikala, H. D.

2018-03-01

The phosphate glass with composition 11Na2O-15BaO-29CaO-45P2O5 was coated on biomedical implant materials such as stainless steel 316 L, duplex stainless steel (DSS) 2205 and Ti6Al4V alloy by thermal enamelling method. The structural properties and composition of glass coated substrates were studied by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The coatings were partially crystalline in nature with porous structure and pore size varied from micro to nanometer range. The polarization curve was obtained for uncoated and coated substrates from electrochemical corrosion test which was conducted at 37 °C in Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS). The corrosion resistance of 316 L substrate increased after coating, whereas it decreased in case of DSS 2205 and Ti6Al4V. The XRD and SEM/EDS studies indicated the bioactive hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer formation on all the coated surfaces after electrochemical corrosion test, which improved the corrosion resistance. The observed electrochemical corrosion behavior can be explained based on protective HAp layer formation, composition and diffusion of ions on glass coated surfaces. The in-vitro bioactivity test was carried out at 37 °C in HBS solution for 14 days under static conditions for uncoated and coated substrates. pH and ion release rate measurements from the coated samples were conducted to substantiate the electrochemical corrosion test. The lower ion release rates of Na+ and Ca2+ from coated 316 L supported its higher electrochemical corrosion resistance among coated samples. Among the uncoated substrates, DSS showed higher electrochemical corrosion resistance. Amorphous calcium-phosphate (ACP) layer formation on all the coated substrates after in-vitro bioactivity test was confirmed by XRD, SEM/EDS and ion release measurements. The present work is a comparative study of corrosion resistance and bioactivity of glass coated and uncoated biomedical implants such as 316 L, DSS and Ti6Al4V.

Monodispersed fabrication and dielectric studies on ethylenediamine passivated α-manganese dioxide nanorods

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Joseph, A. Martin; Kumar, R. Thilak, E-mail: manojthilak@yahoo.com

2016-09-15

Highlights: • Monodispersed ethylenediamine (EDA) passivated α-MnO{sub 2} nanorods were fabricated by inexpensive wet chemical method. • FTIR analysis indicated that surface passivation is strongly influenced by the introduction of the organic ligand. • XRD and HR-SEM revealed the structure and morphology of the fabricated α-MnO{sub 2} nanorods with an average size of about 40 × 200 nm. • Dielectric studies pointed out that the fabricated α-MnO{sub 2} is semiconducting in nature with resistivity, ρ = 1.46 to 5.76 × 10{sup 3} Ωcm. • The optical energy gap for the fabricated α-MnO{sub 2} nanorods is found to be around 1.37more » eV. - Abstract: In this present work, pure α-MnO{sub 2} nanorods were fabricated by the reduction of 0.2 m/L of KMnO{sub 4} with 0.2 m/L of Na{sub 2}S{sub 2}O{sub 3}·5H{sub 2}O and by passivating with the organic ligand Ethylenediamine (EDA). The structural, functional, morphological and chemical composition of the nanorods were investigated by X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), High Resolution Scanning Electron Microscope (HR-SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometry (EDX). The XRD analysis indicated high crystalline nature of the product and FTIR confirmed the contribution of the organic ligand in surface passivation. HR-SEM image revealed the morphology of the α-MnO{sub 2} nanorods with an average size of about 40 × 200 nm. EDX confirmed the presence of Mn and O in the material. UV–visible spectrophotometery was used to determine the absorption behavior of the nanorods and an indirect band gap of 1.37 eV was acquired by Taucplot. Dielectric studies were carried out using Broadband Dielectric Spectrometer(BDS) and the resistivity was found to be around the semiconductor range (ρ = 1.46 to 5.76 × 10{sup 3} Ωcm).« less

Resistance of the Opossum (Didelphis Virginiana) to Envenomation by Snakes of the Crotalidae Family.

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-12-01

ni., .d in Eiock 20. If dtli.r., ( ha. R.p.f ) IS S UPPL€ MEN TA RY NOTES Animal studies in relation to chemical agents 5 I E Y WO RDS (Co&Mu. ., r...cobra 1 .07 mg/kg, iv Died in 30 mm Na/a na/a atra 0 Snakebite Died in 45 min Chinese cobra Na/a nivea 03 1.38 mg/kg, iv Died in 1 hr Cape cobra Micn

A comparative study of green composites based on tapioca starch and celluloses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Owi, Wei Tieng; Lin, Ong Hui; Sam, Sung Ting; Mern, Chin Kwok; Villagracia, Al Rey; Santos, Gil Nonato C.; Akil, Hazizan Md

2017-07-01

The objective of this study was to compare the properties of green composites based on tapioca starch (TS) and celluloses isolated from empty fruit bunches (EFB) and commercial celluloses from cotton linter (supplied by Sigma). Empty fruit bunches (EFB) acted as the main source to obtain the cellulose by using a chemical approach whereas the commercial cellulose from Sigma was used as reference. The TS/cellulose composite films were prepared using cellulose in varying proportions as filler into TS matrix by a casting method. The amount of celluloses added into the tapioca starch were 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 phr (as per dry mass of TS). The celluloses were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTTR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). While the green composite films were analyzed in terms of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), SEM and tensile properties. FTTR analysis confirmed the removal of non-cellulosic materials such as hemicelluloses and lignin from raw EFB after the chemical treatment. XRD diffractograms revealed that the crystallinity of celluloses EFB increased from 43.1 % of raw EFB to 52.1 %. SEM images showed the fibrillar structure of cellulose isolated from EFB. The TGA and derivative thermogravimetric (DTG) curves of green composite films showed no significant effect on the thermal stability. Melting temperature of TS/cellulose EFB higher than neat TS while TS/cellulose Sigma lower than neat TS. The green composite films with 15 phr cellulose from EFB filler loading provided the best tensile properties in term of its strength and modulus. However, in term of elongation at break, the percentage elongation decreased with the increased of the amount of filler loading. SEM images of the films demonstrated a good interaction between cellulose filler and TS matrix especially with the addition of 15 phr of cellulose from EFB.

3-Dimensional magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging at 3 Tesla for early response assessment of glioblastoma patients during external beam radiation therapy.

PubMed

Muruganandham, Manickam; Clerkin, Patrick P; Smith, Brian J; Anderson, Carryn M; Morris, Ann; Capizzano, Aristides A; Magnotta, Vincent; McGuire, Sarah M; Smith, Mark C; Bayouth, John E; Buatti, John M

2014-09-01

To evaluate the utility of 3-dimensional magnetic resonance (3D-MR) proton spectroscopic imaging for treatment planning and its implications for early response assessment in glioblastoma multiforme. Eighteen patients with newly diagnosed, histologically confirmed glioblastoma had 3D-MR proton spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) along with T2 and T1 gadolinium-enhanced MR images at simulation and at boost treatment planning after 17 to 20 fractions of radiation therapy. All patients received standard radiation therapy (RT) with concurrent temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide. Imaging for response assessment consisted of MR scans every 2 months. Progression-free survival was defined by the criteria of MacDonald et al. MRSI images obtained at initial simulation were analyzed for choline/N-acetylaspartate ratios (Cho/NAA) on a voxel-by-voxel basis with abnormal activity defined as Cho/NAA ≥2. These images were compared on anatomically matched MRSI data collected after 3 weeks of RT. Changes in Cho/NAA between pretherapy and third-week RT scans were tested using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank tests and correlated with progression-free survival, radiation dose and location of recurrence using Cox proportional hazards regression. After a median follow-up time of 8.6 months, 50% of patients had experienced progression based on imaging. Patients with a decreased or stable mean or median Cho/NAA values had less risk of progression (P<.01). Patients with an increase in mean or median Cho/NAA values at the third-week RT scan had a significantly greater chance of early progression (P<.01). An increased Cho/NAA at the third-week MRSI scan carried a hazard ratio of 2.72 (95% confidence interval, 1.10-6.71; P=.03). Most patients received the prescription dose of RT to the Cho/NAA ≥2 volume, where recurrence most often occurred. Change in mean and median Cho/NAA detected at 3 weeks was a significant predictor of early progression. The potential impact for risk-adaptive therapy based on early spectroscopic findings is suggested. Published by Elsevier Inc.

3D-MR Spectroscopic Imaging at 3Tesla for Early Response Assessment of Glioblastoma Patients during External Beam Radiation Therapy

PubMed Central

Muruganandham, Manickam; Clerkin, Patrick P; Smith, Brian J; Anderson, Carryn M; Morris, Ann; Capizzano, Aristides A; Magnotta, Vincent; McGuire, Sarah M; Smith, Mark C; Bayouth, John E; Buatti, John M

2014-01-01

Purpose To evaluate the utility of 3D-MR proton spectroscopic imaging for treatment planning and its implications for early response assessment in glioblastoma multiforme. Methods and Materials Eighteen patients with newly diagnosed, histologically confirmed glioblastoma had 3D-MR proton spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) along with T2 and T1 gadolinium enhanced MR images at simulation and at boost treatment planning after 17-20 fractions of radiotherapy. All patients received standard radiotherapy with temozolomide and follow-up with every two month MR scans. Progression free survival was defined using MacDonald criteria. MRSI images obtained at initial simulation were analyzed for choline / N-acetylaspartate ratios (Cho/NAA) on a voxel by voxel basis with abnormal activity defined as Cho/NAA ≥ 2. These images were compared on anatomically matched MRSI data collected after 3 weeks of radiotherapy. Changes in Cho/NAA between pre-therapy and 3rd week RT scans were tested using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank tests and correlated with progression free survival, radiation dose and location of recurrence using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results After 8.6 months (median follow-up), 50% of patients had progressed based on imaging. Patients with a decreased or stable mean or median Cho/NAA values had less risk of progression (p< 0.01). Patients with an increase in mean or median Cho/NAA values at the 3rd week RT scan had a significantly greater chance of early progression (p <0.01). An increased Cho/NAA at the 3rd week MRSI scan carried a hazard ratio of 2.72 (95% confidence interval 1.10-6.71, p= 0.03). Most patients received the prescription dose of RT to the Cho/NAA ≥ 2 volume, which was where recurrence most often occurred. Conclusion Change in mean and median Cho/NAA detected at 3 weeks was a significant predictor of early progression. The potential impact for risk-adaptive therapy based on early spectroscopic findings is suggested. PMID:24986746

3-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopic Imaging at 3 Tesla for Early Response Assessment of Glioblastoma Patients During External Beam Radiation Therapy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Muruganandham, Manickam; Clerkin, Patrick P.; Smith, Brian J.

Purpose: To evaluate the utility of 3-dimensional magnetic resonance (3D-MR) proton spectroscopic imaging for treatment planning and its implications for early response assessment in glioblastoma multiforme. Methods and Materials: Eighteen patients with newly diagnosed, histologically confirmed glioblastoma had 3D-MR proton spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) along with T2 and T1 gadolinium-enhanced MR images at simulation and at boost treatment planning after 17 to 20 fractions of radiation therapy. All patients received standard radiation therapy (RT) with concurrent temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide. Imaging for response assessment consisted of MR scans every 2 months. Progression-free survival was defined by the criteria of MacDonald et al.more » MRSI images obtained at initial simulation were analyzed for choline/N-acetylaspartate ratios (Cho/NAA) on a voxel-by-voxel basis with abnormal activity defined as Cho/NAA ≥2. These images were compared on anatomically matched MRSI data collected after 3 weeks of RT. Changes in Cho/NAA between pretherapy and third-week RT scans were tested using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank tests and correlated with progression-free survival, radiation dose and location of recurrence using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results: After a median follow-up time of 8.6 months, 50% of patients had experienced progression based on imaging. Patients with a decreased or stable mean or median Cho/NAA values had less risk of progression (P<.01). Patients with an increase in mean or median Cho/NAA values at the third-week RT scan had a significantly greater chance of early progression (P<.01). An increased Cho/NAA at the third-week MRSI scan carried a hazard ratio of 2.72 (95% confidence interval, 1.10-6.71; P=.03). Most patients received the prescription dose of RT to the Cho/NAA ≥2 volume, where recurrence most often occurred. Conclusion: Change in mean and median Cho/NAA detected at 3 weeks was a significant predictor of early progression. The potential impact for risk-adaptive therapy based on early spectroscopic findings is suggested.« less

76 FR 75845 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; State of Tennessee: Prevention of Significant...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-05

... major stationary thresholds (marginal, moderate, serious, severe, and extreme NAA classifications) and... offset ratios for marginal, moderate, serious, severe, and extreme ozone NAA. EPA finalized regulations...

Single voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 3 Tesla in a memory disorders clinic: early right hippocampal NAA/Cr loss in mildly impaired subjects.

PubMed

Caserta, Maria T; Ragin, Ann; Hermida, Adriana P; Ahrens, R John; Wise, Leon

2008-11-30

In this study, we use magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) at 3 Tesla to measure N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), myo-inositol (mI) and choline (Cho) to creatine (Cr) ratios in R (right) and L (left) hippocampi (H) in 8 mildly memory impaired (MMI), 6 probable Alzheimer's Disease (PRAD), and 17 control subjects. NAA/Cr was significantly reduced in the RH in the MMI group and bilaterally in the PRAD group vs. controls. No other metabolite differences were noted between the three groups. Five MMI subjects have converted to PRAD in follow-up. These findings suggest that RH NAA/Cr ratios measured at 3 Tesla may be a sensitive marker of future progression to dementia in a clinically defined population with isolated memory complaints.

Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Platforms: Engineered Surface Chemistry and Structure for Optical Sensing Applications

PubMed Central

Kumeria, Tushar; Santos, Abel; Losic, Dusan

2014-01-01

Electrochemical anodization of pure aluminum enables the growth of highly ordered nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) structures. This has made NAA one of the most popular nanomaterials with applications including molecular separation, catalysis, photonics, optoelectronics, sensing, drug delivery, and template synthesis. Over the past decades, the ability to engineer the structure and surface chemistry of NAA and its optical properties has led to the establishment of distinctive photonic structures that can be explored for developing low-cost, portable, rapid-response and highly sensitive sensing devices in combination with surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and reflective interference spectroscopy (RIfS) techniques. This review article highlights the recent advances on fabrication, surface modification and structural engineering of NAA and its application and performance as a platform for SPR- and RIfS-based sensing and biosensing devices. PMID:25004150

Molecular simulation of water removal from simple gases with zeolite NaA.

PubMed

Csányi, Eva; Ható, Zoltán; Kristóf, Tamás

2012-06-01

Water vapor removal from some simple gases using zeolite NaA was studied by molecular simulation. The equilibrium adsorption properties of H(2)O, CO, H(2), CH(4) and their mixtures in dehydrated zeolite NaA were computed by grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations. The simulations employed Lennard-Jones + Coulomb type effective pair potential models, which are suitable for the reproduction of thermodynamic properties of pure substances. Based on the comparison of the simulation results with experimental data for single-component adsorption at different temperatures and pressures, a modified interaction potential model for the zeolite is proposed. In the adsorption simulations with mixtures presented here, zeolite exhibits extremely high selectivity of water to the investigated weakly polar/non-polar gases demonstrating the excellent dehydration ability of zeolite NaA in engineering applications.

Combination of the Auxins NAA, IBA, and IAA with GA3 Improves the Commercial Seed-Tuber Production of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under In Vitro Conditions

PubMed Central

Kumlay, Ahmet Metin

2014-01-01

The study compared the effects of 1.0 × MS medium containing various concentrations of α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), alone or in combination with gibberellic acid (GA3) in micropropagation of three potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars Pasinler, Granola, and Caspar using binodal stem cuttings. The results testified improved regeneration on 1.0 × MS medium containing variants of NAA, IAA, and IBA plus GA3 on all cultivars. The minimum days to shoot induction on three cultivars ranged 4.25–5 d on 1.0 × MS medium containing 0.25 mg L−1  GA3 + 1 mg L−1 NAA. The longest shoots (11.8 cm), maximum number of nodes (13.50), and maximum number of leaves (11.00) were recorded on cv. Caspar on 1.0 × MS medium containing 1 mg L−1  NAA + 0.25 mg L−1 GA3. The minimum time to root induction (12.25 d) was noted on cv. Pasinler on the same medium. All of the regenerated shoots could be easily rooted. The results showed that the combined effect of various concentrations of NAA, IAA, and IBA plus GA3 was more pronounced compared to the auxins used alone. The results of this research are of significant importance for potato breeders. PMID:25028654

Combination of the auxins NAA, IBA, and IAA with GA3 improves the commercial seed-tuber production of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under in vitro conditions.

PubMed

Kumlay, Ahmet Metin

2014-01-01

The study compared the effects of 1.0 × MS medium containing various concentrations of α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), alone or in combination with gibberellic acid (GA3) in micropropagation of three potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars Pasinler, Granola, and Caspar using binodal stem cuttings. The results testified improved regeneration on 1.0 × MS medium containing variants of NAA, IAA, and IBA plus GA3 on all cultivars. The minimum days to shoot induction on three cultivars ranged 4.25-5 d on 1.0 × MS medium containing 0.25 mg L(-1) GA3 + 1 mg L(-1) NAA. The longest shoots (11.8 cm), maximum number of nodes (13.50), and maximum number of leaves (11.00) were recorded on cv. Caspar on 1.0 × MS medium containing 1 mg L(-1) NAA + 0.25 mg L(-1) GA3. The minimum time to root induction (12.25 d) was noted on cv. Pasinler on the same medium. All of the regenerated shoots could be easily rooted. The results showed that the combined effect of various concentrations of NAA, IAA, and IBA plus GA3 was more pronounced compared to the auxins used alone. The results of this research are of significant importance for potato breeders.

The studies on the toxicity mechanism of environmentally hazardous natural (IAA) and synthetic (NAA) auxin--The experiments on model Arabidopsis thaliana and rat liver plasma membranes.

PubMed

Hąc-Wydro, Katarzyna; Flasiński, Michał

2015-06-01

This paper concerns the studies towards membrane-damage effect of two auxins: indole-3-acetic acid - IAA and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid - NAA on plant (Arabidopsis thaliana) and animal (rat liver) model membranes. The foregoing auxins are plant growth regulators widely used in agriculture to control the quality of the crop. However, their accumulation in the environment makes them hazardous for the living organisms. The aim of our investigations was to compare the effect of natural (IAA) vs. synthetic (NAA) auxin on the organization of plant and animal model membranes and find a possible correlation between membrane-disturbing effect of these compounds and their toxicity. The collected data evidenced that auxins cause destabilization of membranes, decrease their condensation and weakens interactions of molecules. The alterations in the morphology of model systems were also noticed. The foregoing effects of auxins are concentration-dependent and additionally NAA was found to act on animal vs. plant membranes more selectively than IAA. Interestingly, both IAA and NAA induce the strongest disordering in model lipid system at the concentration, which is frequently reported as toxic to animal and plants. Based on the above findings it was proposed that membrane-damage effect induced by IAA and NAA may be important from the point of view of the mechanism of toxicity of these compounds and cannot be ignored in further investigations in this area. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A single dose of a neuron-binding human monoclonal antibody improves brainstem NAA concentrations, a biomarker for density of spinal cord axons, in a model of progressive multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Wootla, Bharath; Denic, Aleksandar; Watzlawik, Jens O; Warrington, Arthur E; Rodriguez, Moses

2015-04-29

Intracerebral infection of susceptible mouse strains with Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) results in chronic demyelinating disease with progressive axonal loss and neurologic dysfunction similar to progressive forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). We previously showed that as the disease progresses, a marked decrease in brainstem N-acetyl aspartate (NAA; metabolite associated with neuronal integrity) concentrations, reflecting axon health, is measured. We also demonstrated stimulation of neurite outgrowth by a neuron-binding natural human antibody, IgM12. Treatment with either the serum-derived or recombinant human immunoglobulin M 12 (HIgM12) preserved functional motor activity in the TMEV model. In this study, we examined IgM-mediated changes in brainstem NAA concentrations and central nervous system (CNS) pathology. (1)H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) showed that treatment with HIgM12 significantly increased brainstem NAA concentrations compared to controls in TMEV-infected mice. Pathologic analysis demonstrated a significant preservation of axons in the spinal cord of animals treated with HIgM12. This study links drug efficacy of slowing deficits with axon preservation and NAA concentrations in the brainstem in a model of progressive MS. HIgM12-mediated changes of NAA concentrations in the brainstem are a surrogate marker of axon injury/preservation throughout the spinal cord. This study provides proof-of-concept that a neuron-reactive human IgM can be therapeutic and provides a biomarker for clinical trials.

Education mitigates age-related decline in N-Acetylaspartate levels.

PubMed

Erickson, Kirk I; Leckie, Regina L; Weinstein, Andrea M; Radchenkova, Polina; Sutton, Bradley P; Prakash, Ruchika Shaurya; Voss, Michelle W; Chaddock-Heyman, Laura; McAuley, Edward; Kramer, Arthur F

2015-03-01

Greater educational attainment is associated with better neurocognitive health in older adults and is thought to reflect a measure of cognitive reserve. In vivo neuroimaging tools have begun to identify the brain systems and networks potentially responsible for reserve. We examined the relationship between education, a commonly used proxy for cognitive reserve, and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in neurologically healthy older adults (N=135; mean age=66 years). Using single voxel MR spectroscopy, we predicted that higher levels of education would moderate an age-related decline in NAA in the frontal cortex. After controlling for the variance associated with cardiorespiratory fitness, sex, annual income, and creatine levels, there were no significant main effects of education (B=0.016, P=0.787) or age (B=-0.058, P=0.204) on NAA levels. However, consistent with our predictions, there was a significant education X age interaction such that more years of education offset an age-related decline in NAA (B=0.025, P=0.031). When examining working memory via the backwards digit span task, longer span length was associated with greater education (P<0.01) and showed a trend with greater NAA concentrations (P<0.06); however, there was no age X education interaction on digit span performance nor a significant moderated mediation effect between age, education, and NAA on digit span performance. Taken together, these results suggest that higher levels of education may attenuate an age-related reduction in neuronal viability in the frontal cortex.

Education mitigates age-related decline in N-Acetylaspartate levels

PubMed Central

Erickson, Kirk I; Leckie, Regina L; Weinstein, Andrea M; Radchenkova, Polina; Sutton, Bradley P; Prakash, Ruchika Shaurya; Voss, Michelle W; Chaddock-Heyman, Laura; McAuley, Edward; Kramer, Arthur F

2015-01-01

Background Greater educational attainment is associated with better neurocognitive health in older adults and is thought to reflect a measure of cognitive reserve. In vivo neuroimaging tools have begun to identify the brain systems and networks potentially responsible for reserve. Methods We examined the relationship between education, a commonly used proxy for cognitive reserve, and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in neurologically healthy older adults (N = 135; mean age = 66 years). Using single voxel MR spectroscopy, we predicted that higher levels of education would moderate an age-related decline in NAA in the frontal cortex. Results After controlling for the variance associated with cardiorespiratory fitness, sex, annual income, and creatine levels, there were no significant main effects of education (B = 0.016, P = 0.787) or age (B = −0.058, P = 0.204) on NAA levels. However, consistent with our predictions, there was a significant education X age interaction such that more years of education offset an age-related decline in NAA (B = 0.025, P = 0.031). When examining working memory via the backwards digit span task, longer span length was associated with greater education (P < 0.01) and showed a trend with greater NAA concentrations (P < 0.06); however, there was no age X education interaction on digit span performance nor a significant moderated mediation effect between age, education, and NAA on digit span performance. Conclusions Taken together, these results suggest that higher levels of education may attenuate an age-related reduction in neuronal viability in the frontal cortex. PMID:25798329

Neuronal loss is an early component of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

PubMed

Yüksel, Deniz; Diren, Barış; Ulubay, Hakan; Altunbaşak, Sakir; Anlar, Banu

2014-09-02

We performed diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies in a group of patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) in order to estimate the pathologic process underlying the phenotypic variability. Patients with SSPE who had MRI including DTI and MRS examinations were evaluated according to their clinical status as determined by the SSPE Scoring System and their mental age as determined by tests appropriate for age and developmental level. Comparisons of fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and metabolite ratios of frontal periventricular white matter, parieto-occipital periventricular white matter, and globus pallidus in both hemispheres were made between control and SSPE groups, and between SSPE subgroups. Control (n = 18) and SSPE (n = 39) groups differed in all DTI and MRS parameters except FA, choline (Cho), and Cho/creatine (Cr). SSPE cases had higher ADC and lower N-acetylaspartate (NAA), NAA/Cho, and NAA/Cr in all regions of interest, suggesting cell loss. Disease progression rate and neurologic deficit appeared to be associated with the degree of ADC elevation and NAA reduction: the group with severe global deterioration had the lowest NAA (230.75 ± 197.97 in forceps minor), and rapid progression was associated with acute reduction in NAA. The combination of MRS and diffusion MRI findings suggests neuronal loss can be a primary target in rapidly or subacutely progressing SSPE, and preservation or regeneration of axonal structure may be beneficial in chronic cases. © 2014 American Academy of Neurology.

The concentration of N-acetyl aspartate, creatine + phosphocreatine, and choline in different parts of the brain in adulthood and senium.

PubMed

Christiansen, P; Toft, P; Larsson, H B; Stubgaard, M; Henriksen, O

1993-01-01

The fully relaxed water signal was used as an internal standard in a STEAM experiment to calculate the concentrations of the metabolites: N-acetyl aspartate (NAA), creatine + phosphocreatine (Cr + PCr), and choline (Cho) containing compounds in four different parts of the brain in two age groups of healthy volunteers (20-30 yr, n = 8) and (60-80 yr, n = 8). Furthermore, T1 and T2 relaxation time of the metabolites and signal ratios: NAA/Cho, NAA/Cr + PCr, and Cho/Cr + PCr at TE = 272 msec were calculated. The experiments were carried out using a Siemens Helicon SP 63/84 wholebody MR-scanner at 1.5 T. In the younger age group, the concentration of NAA was significantly higher in the occipital part than in the other three parts of the brain. No significant regional variation was found for any other metabolite concentration. There was a significantly higher concentration of NAA in the occipital part of the brain in the younger age group compared to the older one. No significant regional or age dependent variation was found concerning the T1 and T2 relaxation times.

Brain Creatine Elevation and NAA Reduction Indicates Neuronal Dysfunction in the Setting of Enhanced Glial Energy Metabolism in a Macaque Model of neuroAIDS

PubMed Central

Ratai, Eva-Maria; Annamalai, Lakshmanan; Burdo, Tricia; Joo, Chan-Gyu; Bombardier, Jeffrey P.; Fell, Robert; Hakimelahi, Reza; He, Julian; Lentz, Margaret R.; Campbell, Jennifer; Curran, Elizabeth; Halpern, Elkan F.; Masliah, Eliezer; Westmoreland, Susan. V.; Williams, Kenneth C.; González, R. Gilberto

2011-01-01

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) has emerged as one of the most informative neuroimaging modalities for studying the effect of HIV infection in the brain, providing surrogate markers by which to assess disease progression and monitor treatment. Reductions in the level of N-Acetylaspartate (NAA) and NAA/creatine (NAA/Cr) are established markers of neuronal injury or loss. However, the biochemical basis of altered creatine levels in neuroAIDS is not well understood. This study used a rapid progression macaque model of neuroAIDS to elucidate the changes in creatine. As the disease progressed 1H MRS revealed a decrease in NAA, indicative of neuronal injury, and an increase in creatine yet to be elucidated. Subsequently, immunohistochemistry and stereology measures of decreased synaptophysin, microtubule-associated protein 2, and neuronal density confirmed neuronal injury. Furthermore, increases in ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein indicated microglial and astroglial activation, respectively. Given these data, elevated creatine may reflect enhanced high-energy phosphate turnover in highly metabolizing activated astrocytes and microglia. PMID:21381104

Improvement of Nicotinic Acid and Nicotinamide Analysis in Meats and Meat Products by HPLC and LC-MS/MS with Solid-Phase Extraction.

PubMed

Hiki, Asako; Yamajima, Yukiko; Uematsu, Yoko

2016-01-01

A method for nicotinic acid (NA) and nicotinamide (NAA) analysis in meats was developed. NA and NAA were extracted from meats or meat products with metaphosphate aqueous solution. The extract was cleaned up with an Oasis MCX cartridge. The cartridge was washed with 2% acetic acid (v/v) and acetic acid-methanol solution. NA and NAA were eluted with ammonia-methanol solution. NA and NAA in the eluate were chromatographed on a Scherzo SM-C18 (3.0×150 mm, 3.0 μm) column with 20 mmol/L ammonium acetate containing 0.1% acetic acid-acetonitrile (97 : 3) as a mobile phase and were monitored at 261 nm. Quantification was performed by LC and LC-MS/MS. Calibration curves showed high linearity (correlation coefficient>0.998) between 1-25 μg/mL for LC and LC-MS/MS. Recoveries were 84-108% (CV≦5.8%) by HPLC and 79-105% (CV≦9.0%) by LC-MS/MS. The limit of quantitation for NA was 0.005-0.01 g/kg and that for NAA was 0.01-0.02 g/kg.

Synthesis, characterization and bioactivity of a calcium-phosphate glass-ceramics obtained by the sol-gel processing method.

PubMed

Jmal, Nouha; Bouaziz, Jamel

2017-02-01

In this work, a calcium-phosphate glass-ceramics was successfully obtained by heat treatment of a mixture of 26.52 in wt.% of fluorapatite (Fap) and 73.48 in wt.% of 77S (77 SiO 2 14 CaO9 P 2 O 5 in wt.%) gel. The calcium phosphate-glass-ceramics was prepared by sol-gel process with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), triethyl phosphate (TEP), calcium nitrate and fluorapatite. The synthesized powders were characterized by some commonly used tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 31 P magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and thin-film X-ray diffraction (TF-XRD). The obtained results seemed to confirm the nucleation and growth of hydroxyapatite (Hap) nano-phase in the glass. Moreover, an in-vitro evaluation of the glass-ceramic was performed. In addition, to assess its bioactive capacity, it was soaked in simulated body fluid (SBF) at different time intervals. The SEM, EDS and TF-XRD analyses showed the deposition of hydroxyapatite on the surface of the specimens after three days of immersion in SBF solution. The mechanical properties of the obtained material such as rupture strength, Vickers hardness and elastic modulus were measured. In addition, the friction coefficient of calcium phosphate-glass-ceramics was tested. The values of the composite of rupture strength (24MPa), Vickers hardness (214Hv), Young's modulus (52.3GPa), shear modulus (19GPa) and friction coefficient (0.327) were obtained. This glass-ceramics can have useful applications in dental prostheses. Indeed, this material may have promising applications for implants because of its content of fluorine, the effective protector against dental caries. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Change in structural morphology on addition of ZnO and its effect on fluorescence of Yb³⁺/Er³⁺ doped Y₂O₃.

PubMed

Yadav, R V; Verma, R K; Kaur, G; Rai, S B

2013-02-15

Yb(3+)/Er(3+) codoped Y(2)O(3) phosphor and its composite with ZnO have been synthesized by combustion method. Morphology of the materials has been investigated using X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. XRD confirms the constituents as Y(2)O(3) and ZnO, with average crystallite size of 112 nm. On addition of ZnO, a small shifting in XRD pattern of Y(2)O(3) is observed. SEM pattern suggests that the average particle size lies in micro-range (0.5 μm). A dumble like structure is observed for hybrid material on annealing at 1473 K. A strong green (525, 546 nm) with weak blue (411 nm) and red (657 nm) emissions through upconversion has been observed from the phosphor on excitation with 976 nm diode laser. The observed emissions involve (2)H(9/2)→(4)I(15/2), (2)H(11/2)→(4)I(15/2), (4)S(3/2)→(4)I(15/2) and (4)F(9/2)→(4)I(15/2) electronic transitions, respectively. The upconversion process has been confirmed by power dependence measurements and its slope value was found to be 1.85, 1.72 for green and red emissions, respectively. On addition of ZnO, the intensity of these emissions is enhanced several times. The reason behind the enhancement is discussed with the help of the emitting level lifetime. An interesting dual mode property (upconversion and downconversion) to the same material has been observed on excitation with 532 nm laser source. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of magnetite (Fe3O4) minerals from natural iron sand of Bonto Kanang Village Takalar for ink powder (toner) application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fahlepy, M. R.; Tiwow, V. A.; Subaer

2018-03-01

This research is about magnetite’s characterization (Fe3O4) from natural iron sands of Bonto Kanang Village, District of Takalar for ink powder (toner) application. This study aims to determine the process parameters to obtain magnetite of high purity degree and to observe its physical characteristics as a supporting toner material which synthesized through co-precipitation method. The iron sand was first separated by the magnetic technique and dissolved into HCl solution before conducting the precipitation process. Precipitation was done by dripping ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH). The precipitated powder was dried at 100°C, and then calcined at 400°C. The purity degree and magnetite mineral grain size were analyzed by XRD and SEM-EDS. The EDS elemental test before and after precipitation shown an increase of iron oxide composition from 66.70% to 87.76%. Diffractogram of XRD before and after precipitation showed Fe3O4 compounds with magnetite phase of 59% and 98%, respectively. The crystal structure iron sand powder structure before and after precipitation is cubic with each lattice parameters a = b = c = 8.384971 Å, V = 589.528423 Å3 and a = b = c = 8.386829 Å and V = 589.920291 Å3 when angle α = β = γ = 90°. SEM images (using SE and HV 20kV) showed inhomogeneous magnetite morphology. The magnetite phase percentage that obtained based on the XRD analysis gives information that magnetite precipitation has been successfully performed with high degree of purity. The material obtained can be applied as a support toner material.

Chemical and morphological characterization of TSP and PM2.5 by SEM-EDS, XPS and XRD collected in the metropolitan area of Monterrey, Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, Lucy T.; Rodríguez, F. E. Longoria; Sánchez-Domínguez, M.; Leyva-Porras, C.; Silva-Vidaurri, L. G.; Acuna-Askar, Karim; Kharisov, B. I.; Villarreal Chiu, J. F.; Alfaro Barbosa, J. M.

2016-10-01

Total suspended particles (TSP) and particles smaller than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) were collected at four sites in the metropolitan area of Monterrey (MAM) in Mexico. The samples were characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). In order to determine the possible sources of emissions of atmospheric particulate matter, a principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. The XRD results showed that the major crystalline compounds found in the TPS were CaCO3 and SiO2; while in the PM2.5 CaSO4 was found. The XPS analysis showed that the main elements found on the surface of the particles were C, O, Si, Ca, S, and N. The deconvolution carried out on the high-resolution spectra for C1s, S2p and N1s, showed that the aromatics, sulfates and pyrrolic-amides were the main groups contributing to the signal of these elements, respectively. The C-rich particles presented a spherical morphology, while the Ca- and Si-based particles mostly showed a prismatic shape. The PCA analysis together with the results obtained from the characterization techniques, suggested that the main contributors to the CaCO3 particles collected in the PM were most probably produced and emitted into the atmosphere by local construction industries and exploitation of rich-deposits of calcite. Meanwhile, the SiO2 found in the MAM originated from the suspension of geological material abundant in the region, and the carbon particles were mainly produced by the combustion of fossil fuels.

Studies the alterations of biochemical and mineral contents in bone tissue of mus musculus due to aluminum toxicity and the protective action of desferrioxamine and deferiprone by FTIR, ICP-OES, SEM and XRD techniques.

PubMed

Sivakumar, S; Khatiwada, Chandra Prasad; Sivasubramanian, J

2014-05-21

The present study has attempt to analyze the changes in the biochemical and mineral contents of aluminum intoxicated bone and determine the protective action of desferrioxamine (DFO) and deferiprone (DFP) by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques for four groups of animals such as control (Group I), aluminum intoxicated (Group II), Al+DFP (Group III) and Al+DFO+DFP (Group IV) treated groups respectively. The FTIR spectra of the aluminum intoxicated bone showed significant alteration in the biochemical constituents. The bands ratio at I1400/I877 significantly decreased from control to aluminum, but enhanced it by Al+DFP to Al+DFO+DFP treated bone tissue for treatments of 16 weeks. This result suggests that DFO and DFP are the carbonate inhibitor, recovered from chronic growth of bone diseases and pathologies. The alteration of proteins profile indicated by Amide I and Amide II, where peak area values decreased from control to aluminum respectively, but enhanced by treated with DFP (p.o.) and DFO+DFP (i.p.) respectively. The XRD analysis showed a decrease in crystallinity due to aluminum toxicity. Further, the Ca, Mg, and P contents of the aluminum exposed bone were less than those of the control group, and enhanced by treatments with DFO and DFP. The concentrations of trace elements were found by ICP-OES. Therefore, present study suggests that due to aluminum toxicity severe loss of bone minerals, decrease in the biochemical constituents and changes in the surface morphology. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mishra, Ashutosh; Dwivedi, Jagrati, E-mail: hemu.dwi@gmail.com; Shukla, Kritika

Five Chromium (III) complexes have been prepared using Schiff base ligands which derived from benzoin and five different amino acids (H{sub 2}N-R). Samples were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV-VIS and SEM method. X-Ray diffraction pattern analyzed that all chromium (III) complexes have hexagonal structure and crystalline, in nature, using Bruker D8 Advance instrument. Using VERTAX 70, FTIR spectroscopy reveals that Samples have (C=N), (C-O), (M-N) and (M-O) bonds in the range of 4000-400cm{sup −1}. UV-VIS spectroscopy give information that samples absorb the visible light which is in the range of 380-780nm. For this, Lambda 960 spectrometer used. SEM is designedmore » for studying of the solid objects, using JEOL JSM 5600 instrument.« less

The structural properties of barium cobalt hexaferrite powder prepared by a simple heat treatment method

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chauhan, Chetna, E-mail: chetna.chauhan@nirmauni.ac.in; Jotania, Rajshree, E-mail: rbjotania@gmail.com

2016-05-06

The W-type barium hexaferrite was prepared using a simple heat treatment method. The precursor was calcinated at 650°C for 3 hours and then slowly cooled to room temperature in order to obtain barium cobalt hexaferrite powder. The prepared powder was characterised by different experimental techniques like XRD, FTIR and SEM. The X-ray diffractogram of the sample shows W-and M phases. The particle size calculated by Debye Scherrer formula. The FTIR spectra of the sample was taken at room temperature by using KBr pallet method which confirms the formation of hexaferrite phase. The morphological study on the hexaferrite powder was carriedmore » out by SEM analysis.« less

Variation in band gap energy and electrical analysis of double doped cobalt ferrite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parveen, Azra; Agrawal, Shraddha; Azam, Ameer

2018-05-01

The Ca and Cr doped cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (Co0.9Ca0.1) (Fe0.8 Cr0.2)2O4 were synthesized by microwave gel combustion method. Microstructural studies were carried out by XRD and SEM. Structural studies suggest that the crystal system remains spinal even with the doping of calcium and chromium. The SEM image shows the spherical morphology of surface of the sample. Optical properties of Ca and Cr doped cobalt ferrite were studied by UV-visible technique in the range of 400-600 nm. The electrical conductivity of pure and doped cobalt ferrite were studied as a function of frequency and were explained on the basis of electron hopping.

Group 12 dithiocarbamate complexes: Synthesis, spectral studies and their use as precursors for metal sulfides nanoparticles and nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajibade, Peter A.; Ejelonu, Benjamin C.

2013-09-01

Zn(II), Cd(II) and Hg(II) dithiocarbamate complexes have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, UV-Vis, FTIR, 1H- and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The complexes were thermolysed at 180 °C and used as single molecule precursors for the synthesis of HDA capped ZnS, CdS and HgS nanoparticles and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) nanocomposites. The optical and structural properties of the nanoparticles and nanocomposites were studied by UV-Vis, PL, XRD and SEM. The crystallites sizes of the nanoparticles varied between 3.03 and 23.45 nm. SEM and EDX analyses of the nanocomposites confirmed the presence of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix.

Preparation of a novel breviscapine-loaded halloysite nanotubes complex for controlled release of breviscapine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Min; Lu, Liqian; Wang, Xiaoyue; Lin, Houke; Zhou, Qingsong

2017-11-01

For sustain the release rate and prolong half-life of breviscapine in vivo, the breviscapine-loaded halloysite nanotubes complex was prepared. The breviscapine was encapsulated into halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) using a vacuum process. The complex were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy(FT-IR). The formation of breviscapine-loaded HNTs complex was proved by the test results of SEM, DSC, TEM and IR analysise. The results confirmed that breviscapine was successfully loaded in the halloysite nanotubes. Additionally, the in vitro drug release of breviscapine from breviscapine-loaded HNTs complex was investigated, the result indicated this complex has apparent sustained-release effect.

Effect of chromium and phosphorus on the physical properties of iron and titanium-based amorphous metallic alloy films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Distefano, S.; Rameshan, R.; Fitzgerald, D. J.

1991-01-01

Amorphous iron and titanium-based alloys containing various amounts of chromium, phosphorus, and boron exhibit high corrosion resistance. Some physical properties of Fe and Ti-based metallic alloy films deposited on a glass substrate by a dc-magnetron sputtering technique are reported. The films were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, stress analysis, SEM, XRD, SIMS, electron microprobe, and potentiodynamic polarization techniques.