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[Display omitted] • Si-poor shales are widespread in the Permo-Carboniferous strata in North China. • Enhanced continental weathering of silicate released silica into the environment. • The released silica contributed to the expansion of forest ecosystems. Silicon (Si) is known as an important regulator of the global carbon cycle via its effect on silicate weathering in continents and phytoplankton productivity in the oceans. It is also beneficial to plants by improving their resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Detailed analysis of geological record of Si in sediments underpins our understanding of ecosystem evolution over geological time. Here, we unravel the mystery of low Si content in Permo-Carboniferous shales from the central North China and link the terrestrial Si fluxes to the thriving forest ecosystems at that time. Provenance fluctuations as indicated by Zr/TiO 2 are well explained by episodic volcanic input which are identified by elevated Zr/TiO 2 and lowered V/Al 2 O 3 and Cr/Al 2 O 3. CIA and Ga/Rb and K 2 O/Al 2 O 3 ratios imply cyclic changes of climate in an overall warm and humid condition. The covariation between the volcanic indicators and climatic proxies indicates that the volcanism forced the climate cycles. Despite the felsic sources (high Zr/TiO 2 and Th/Sc ratios and low Zr/Sc ratios), the Si-poor shales are universal in Permo-Carboniferous across the North China Block. The enhanced continental weathering of mineral silicates and the hydrolysis of volcanic materials released silica into the environment and led to the eventual deposition of Si-poor shales. The shales lacking in Si tend to have larger TOC contents except for the most distal shales. It implies that the sufficient supply of dissolved-Si in environments may benefit the expansion of terrestrial plants in Permo-Carboniferous and therefore the accumulation of organic matter in the shales. This work provides new insight into feedback linking volcanism, climates, terrestrial dissolved silica flux, and terrestrial ecosystems in Permo-Carboniferous North China Block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the biocompatibility of nanohydroxyapatite (nmHA)-SiO2 fiber material and its efficacy in guided bone regeneration. ① The cytotoxicity of the nmHA-SiO2 fiber material to MC3T3-E1 cells was determined by CCK-8 assay. The adhesion of cells on the surface of the material was observed. ② Bone defects were prepared in the skull of three groups of New Zealand white rabbits. The following treatments were administered: implantation of nmHA-SiO2, implantation of Bio-Oss, and no treatment. The defects were then covered with nmHA-SiO2 membrane or Hai’ao oral repair membrane. Animal samples were analyzed by gross observation, micro-computed tomography, hematoxylin-eosin staining and Masson staining. The data were statistically analyzed by multivariate analysis of variance to evaluate the repair of bone defects. ① The nmHA-SiO2 fiber material has suitable biocompatibility. ② The nmHA-SiO2 fiber material performed more effectively as a barrier membrane than other bone substitute materials in GBR model rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silica-filled rubber composites exhibit nonlinear viscoelastic behavior depending on filler dispersion and matrix interaction. This study investigated the effects of silane treatment on dynamic mechanical properties of precipitated and fumed silica-reinforced polybutadiene rubber composites. The silane coupling agent improved filler dispersion and interfacial adhesion as characterized by microscopy and bound rubber content. Payne effect measurements showed enhanced storage modulus and network stability for silanized composites due to better filler networking. Cyclic tensile loading displayed reduced stress-softening in treated composites attributable to minimized damage formation. Modeling using Kraus and damage mechanics approaches provided quantitative correlations between the microstructure and magnitude of nonlinear response. The results demonstrate that silane treatment optimizes the viscoelastic performance of silica-filled rubber composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Union activism, medical lobbying and occupational health and safety prosecutions led to a major public health initiative in Australia - the banning from 1 July 2024 of work with engineered/artificial stone, including manufacturing, supplying, processing and installing it. This editorial contextualises within the history of regulation of workers' exposure to risks of contracting silicosis the growing international awareness of the dangers posed by working with engineered stone, particularly in relation to making and installing kitchen and bathroom benchtops made from engineered stone. It argues that the Australian initiative is an important public health decision that has a sound justification, is likely to save many lives and should be emulated internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Paper mulching films are affected by wind and rain in the field, which lead to the problems of water absorption, shrinkage, and friction with the soil surface. In order to achieve better hydrophobic durability and wear resistance of paper mulching films, a paper mulching film with ZnO/SiO 2 composite coating was prepared by the brush coating method. Taking ceramic balls as friction pairs, reciprocating friction tests were carried out with two kinds of paper mulching films at different temperatures. The morphology of the raw paper mulch film and the ZnO/SiO 2 composite-coated paper mulch film after rubbing at different temperatures and the reason of the hydrophobic durability of the coated paper mulch film were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and a three-dimensional topography instrument. The results show that ZnO/SiO 2 composite coating can improve the wear resistance and hydrophobic durability of the paper mulch film. Through surface morphology analysis, it can be found that the composite coating plays a role in modification and filling and improves the adhesion between the fibers by reducing the pores on the surface of the paper mulch film, finally improving the wear resistance and hydrophobic durability of the paper mulch film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Antifouling membranes were developed by encapsulating amino-functionalized nano-silica in polymeric mixes of polyethersulfone (PES) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP). Subsequently, the membranes were modified with a nano-Ag/PVP coating layer. The membranes' performance was assessed against synthetic whey solutions model to mimic dairy wastewater. Various techniques were harnessed to evaluate the membranes' composition, structure and morphology, including SEM, XPS, XRD, AFM, mechanical characteristics, porosities and contact angles. Findings indicated that nanocomposite made with 1.5 % amino-functionalized nano-silica (M3) revealed optimum performance and was capable to separate 90 % of the whey in the feed along with a permeate flux of 238 L/m2.h, when the feed whey concentration was 0.4°Brix. the equivalent membrane but coated with a nano-Ag /PVP layer (M3S) displayed a trivial drop in permeate flux (229.3 L/m2.h) comparing to uncoated one. Nonetheless, the addition of the coating boosted the separation efficiency up to 99.7 % of the whey in the feed. The fouling test indicated that the coated membrane (M3S) had superior antifouling property, where flux recovery ratio (FRR) hit 99.5 % with a diminution in the backwash rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A graphene oxide/nano-silica (GOS) hybrid was rapidly and easily synthesized using graphene oxide (GO) and nano-silica (nano-SiO2) as raw materials, and the synthesized GOS was used to improve the mechanical properties of epoxy resin (EP). The modified EP with different mass fractions of GOS (0, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%) were prepared and studied. The structure, thermal stability, mechanical properties, fracture toughness and failure morphology of the modified EP were analyzed. The results showed that the tensile strength of GOS modified EP increased from 40. 6 MPa to 80.2 MPa compared with EP, the critical stress intensity factor of GOS modified EP increased by 65.9% from 0. 82 MPa ⋅ m1/2 to 1.36 MPa ⋅ m1/2, indicating a significant enhancement in fracture toughness. In addition, failure morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation. The toughness mechanism of the modified EP was also discussed. Finally, the thermal stability of the modified EP was improved by the addition of GOS. Compared with neat EP, the initial thermal degradation temperature and glass transition temperature of GOS modified EP increased by 4. 5 °C and 10. 3 °C, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faujasite, a molecular sieve zeolite Y aluminosilicate mineral, has excellent catalytic strength and is employed in various industries. The study therefore, seek to synthesize a faujasite zeolite with a hydrothermal treatment of local clay alumina and rice husk silica using central composite design (CCD) of experiment in response surface methodology (RSM) in a 1000ml 2-neck flat bottom flask on a constant temperature magnetic stirrer at 120oC for 6 hours. SiO2, Al2O3, and NaOH were coded at three levels at various masses and Si/Al mole ratios. A significant model with an F-value of 142.27 and a Predicted R2 of 0.9558 was developed using statistically optimized hydrothermal synthesis. 3.07g NaOH, 10.50g SiO2, and 2.61g Al2O3 were needed to synthesize FAU zeolite with Si/Al mole ratio > 2. At 1095.8cm-1 in IR spectrum, silicone (Si - O - Si) was the most abundant functional group in the zeolite. EDS and XRD revealed a faujasite zeolite-Y with 85.60wt% Si and 17.50wt% Al. Octahedral modified zeolite Y crystals were seen in SEM topography. At low relative pressures (P/P0 < 0.056), BET showed significant N2 absorption, indicating micropores. The zeolite's BET study indicated a specific surface area of 1750.0m2/g and a pore diameter of 1.847nm. Transesterification of high-free fatty acid triglycerides can be catalyzed by microporous faujasite zeolite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

A simple method for controlling the aggregation and oxidation of metallic zinc (Zn) nanoparticles has been developed. Metallic Zn nanoparticles were fabricated from Zn(CH₃COO)2·2H2O by electrolysis under ultrasonic irradiation in water exposed to air. The metallic Zn nanoparticles were silica-coated by adding ethanol, a silane coupling agent (SCA)/ethanol, tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), and NaOH aqueous solution to the metallic Zn nanoparticle colloid solution, which perfectly prevented the metallic Zn nanoparticles from aggregating due to the physical barriers that were provided by the silica shells. (3-Mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane was suitable as the SCA for ensuring the nonaggregation of the silica-coated metallic Zn nanoparticles. Oxidation of the metallic Zn nanoparticles even with annealing in air was controlled by the silica shells due to their function as physical barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

Fracture occurred in metal-ceramic Fixed Dental Prostheses (FDPs) after being permanently cemented has been major concern in dentistry. This study aims to evaluate the compression strength on metal-ceramic samples via the addition of nanoparticle silica (NPS) to opaque porcelain layers. Silica was synthesized via sol-gel method and sonicated for 270 minutes. The morphological and chemical characteristics of the silica were observed using SEM, TEM and XRF analysis. The NPS powder was mixed into the commercial opaque-porcelain powder with variation of 0.5; 1; 1.5; 2; 2.5; 3 wt % and as a control. Co-Cr bimetals prepared in 28 samples were used in the study divided into seven groups (n=4 each). The veneering of opaque-porcelain-NPS and commercial dentine on metals was sintered at 920-950°C. All specimens were tested for the compression strength using a universal testing machine. The XRF analysis confirmed the presence of silica, SEM and TEM showed amorphous NPS with spherical and agglomerated to form clusters. There was a statistically significant difference of compression strength among samples, and the most significant improvements was in 0.5 wt% addition (p<0.05). Nanoparticle silica synthesized from rice husks via combination of sonication/sol-gel method in a small percentage would improve compression on the metal-ceramic samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicosis is an occupational lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust. The disease is characterized by early lung inflammation and late irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. Here we report the effect of Baicalin, a main flavonoid compound from the roots of Chinese herbal medicine Huang Qin on silicosis in a rat model. Results showed Baicalin (50 or 100 mg/kg/day) can mitigate the silicainduced lung inflammation and reduce the harm of alveolar structure and the blue region of collagen fibers in rat lung at 28 days after administration. At the same time, Baicalin also diminished the level of interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) in lung tissues. The protein expression of collagen I (Col-1), a-smooth muscle actin (a-SMA) and vimentin were down-regulated while E-cadherin (E-cad) was increased in Baicalin-treated rats. In addition, the Toll Like Receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) pathway was enabled at 28 days after silica infusion, and the treatment of Baicalin diminished the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB in the lungs of rat with silicosis. These results suggested that Baicalin inhibited the pulmonary inflammatory and fibrosis in a rat model of silicosis, which could be attributed to inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocompatible conversion of chitosan and chitosan/silica hybrid coating were prepared to enhance the biocompatibility and corrosion resistance of biodegradable AZ31 Mg alloy. The coatings were optimized and analysed with potentiodynamic polarization, SEM, ATR-IR and XPS studies. Potentiodynamic polarization studies, revealed that the coatings exhibited high corrosion resistance. The surface morphology of the Ch-3/Si coating showed small globular rough structure. The presence of functional groups was confirmed by ATR-IR. For a better understanding of chitosan/silica hybrid coating, the chemical states were examined by XPS studies. The in-vitro bioactivity of the coated samples was evaluated in Earle's solution, which formed a dense layer of coral-like structure and calcium-deficient apatite with less stoichiometric ratio than the hydroxyapatite. In-vitro cell culture studies exhibited a good cell proliferation rate and the fabricated Ch-3/Si coating was found to be non-hemolytic. The bacterial studies proved that Ch-3/Si coating possessed inherent antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The Cananéia-Iguape estuarine-lagoon complex (CIELC), located in the State of São Paulo, Brazil, is considered an area of the Biosphere Reserve. However, an artificial channel built in the northern sector of the system (Iguape) has promoted an unnatural input of fresh water into the system, leading to enhanced drainage of terrestrial material into the estuary and influencing silicon biogeochemistry within the complex. This study used the distribution of different fractions of silicon along the system as a proxy for the freshwater input. The samples were collected during August, 2012 (winter) and February 2013 (summer) and analyzed for dissolved silicate, biogenic silica, and lithogenic silica. Dissolved silicate reached values above 200 µmol L-1 in the two seasonal periods, indicating the constant supply of terrestrial material in the northern sector of the system associated with fresh water. Southward, where the system is more preserved (Cananéia-Ararapira), the concentration decreased dramatically. Lithogenic silica (LSi) reached extremely high values of ~700 µmol L-1. Biogenic silica (BSi) showed concentrations up to 120 µmol L-1 with distribution more dependent on assimilation processes and the nature of the biological communities than on the source of fresh water. The availability of different forms of Si revealed remineralization, deposition, adsorption, and uptake mechanisms with different dynamics in the northern and southern sectors of the system, evidencing the environmental impact by the Valo Grande Channel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims at evaluating the properties of cotton fabric after nanofinishing using zinc oxide and silicon dioxide nanoparticles along with dimethylol dihydroxyethylene urea (DMDHEU). Design/methodology/approach: DMDHEU recipes was optimized by Box-Behnken Design before using it with nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were synthesized by sol gel technique and applied to the fabric by pad-dry-cure method. The treated samples were evaluated for functional properties such as self-cleaning, antibacterial and ultraviolet (UV) protection properties. Findings: Due to the use of DMDHEU, crease recovery property was obtained. The results showed good antibacterial property against S-aureus (gram positive) bacteria and E-coli (gram negative). UV protection property of combined nano-finished samples showed good results, as they showed very low transmission of UV-irradiation when exposed to UV-rays compared to single nanoparticle finished samples. Self-cleaning property of finished cotton was found to be good even after five washing cycles. Originality/value: In this study, nanofinishing of cotton fabric with zinc oxide and silicon dioxide nanoparticles along with DMDHEU was studied to achieve promising functional properties with long durability of nanofinishing not studied earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pistachio psylla, Agonoscena pistaciae Burckhardt & Lauterer (Hem.: Psyllidae), is the most important pest of pistachio orchards in Iran. It causes quantitative and qualitative reduction of the product. Different concentrations, 4 (+dimethicone) and 8 per thousand of silica, and 4 (+dimethicone), 6 (+dimethicone), and 8 per thousand of diatomaceous earth (DE) were sprayed on the whole canopy to evaluate its effectiveness on different life stages of A. pistaciae in the field. Sampling was carried out at 3, 8, 13-, 18-, 21-, and 28-days post-treatment. The results showed that DE8 had a decreasing effect on eggs, nymphs, and adults with a 96.4%, 80.2-93.7%, and 86.6% effectiveness. It was most effective on the eggs of A. pistaciae. Including dimethicone in some treatments increased the effectiveness of treatments in the density reduction of pests, but it needs further studies. Therefore, the use of DE may be an effective strategy in the integrated management of A. pistaciae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed priming with a composite of iron oxide (Fe 3 O 4) and silicon dioxide (SiO 2) nanoparticles (NPs) is an innovative technique to mitigate cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) uptake in plants from rooting media. The current study explored the impact of seed priming with varying levels of Fe 3 O 4 NPs, SiO 2 NPs, and Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposites on Cd and Cr absorption and phytotoxicity, metal-induced oxidative stress mitigation, growth and biomass yield of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). The results showed that seed priming with the optimum level of 100 mg L−1 of Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposites significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased root dry weight (144 %), shoot dry weight (243 %) and leaf area (34.4 %) compared to the control, primarily by safeguarding plant's photosynthetic machinery, oxidative stress and phytotoxicity of metals. Plants treated with this highest level of Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposites exhibited a substantial increase in photosynthetic and gas exchange indices of spinach plants and enhanced activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) antioxidant enzymes by 45 %, 48 %, and 60 %, respectively. Correspondingly, the relative gene expression levels of SOD, CAT, and APX also rose by 109 %, 181 %, and 137 %, respectively, compared to non-primed plants. This nanocomposite application also boosted the levels of phenolics (28 %), ascorbic acid (68 %), total sugars (129 %), flavonoids (39 %), and anthocyanin (29 %) in spinach leaves, while significantly reducing Cd (34.7 %, 53.4 %) and Cr (20.2 %, 28.8 %) contents in plant roots and shoots, respectively. These findings suggest that seed priming with Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposites effectively mitigated the toxic effects of Cd and Cr, enhancing the growth and biomass yield of spinach in Cd and Cr co-contaminated environments, offering a promising sustainable approach for producing metal-free crops. [Display omitted] • Seed priming with Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposite suppressed oxidative stress in spinach plants. • This nanocomposite enhanced the relative gene expression levels of antioxidant enzymes. • It boosted plant biomass by protecting photosynthetic machinery and metal phytotoxicity. • This Fe 3 O 4 -SiO 2 nanocomposite significantly reduced Cd and Cr uptake by plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Published evidences have suggested that air pollutant benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) may modify the toxicity and adverse effects produced by other toxicants. However, the precise role of short-term exposure to low-dose BaP on acute lung injury (ALI) induced by crystalline silica (CS) and the underlying mechanisms remain to be clarified. To investigate this issue, a mouse co-exposure model was established by intratracheal instillation of 2.5 mg CS and BaP alone or in combination. Our data found that CS exposure resulted in ALI as evidenced by lung histological changes, elevated lactate dehydrogenase activity, increased level of pro-inflammatory markers and enhanced oxidative damage. Although exposure to BaP alone had little effect on the pathological changes of mice lung tissues except for occasionally mild inflammation, it could aggravate the CS-induced ALI in a dose-dependent manner. Bioinformatic analysis of transcriptome sequencing suggested that the expression changes of significantly differentially expressed genes were closely related to the severity of ALI. The joined analysis of STC and WGCNA found that "NOD-like receptor signaling pathway", "toll-like receptor signaling pathway", "TNF signaling pathway", and "NF-kappa B signaling pathway" associated with immune and inflammatory response were the most prominent significant pathways. TLR2/9 and Nod2 might be the key inflammation-related genes that were differentially expressed in the combined lung toxicity induced by CS and BaP exposure. All these findings suggest that co-exposure of CS and low-dose BaP can cause more severe lung inflammation and oxidative damage in mice than exposure alone, which may be useful in the management and prevention of silicosis. The roles of TLR2/9 and Nod2 as candidate targets in the combined toxicity need further exploration. [Display omitted] • Low-dose BaP exacerbated CS-induced acute lung injury in a dose-dependent manner. • Pathway changes by co-exposure were enriched in immune and inflammatory response. • TLR2/9 and Nod2 were identified as candidate targets to ameliorate the combined toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uranium is a strategic resource which is found in quantities of 4.5 billion tons in seawater. For exacting U(VI) efficiently from seawater, this study involves the preparation of a polysulfone (PSF)-based phytic acid-silica blended membrane (PA-SiO 2 /PSF) through the incorporation of silicon dioxide particles (SiO 2) and phytic acid (PA) into the polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane. A large number of adsorption sites was contributed by PA, serving as the primary factor in enhancing the U(VI) adsorption performance of PSF. Meanwhile, silica can be used as a carrier of PA to improve the performance of PSF. The addition of hydrophilic SiO 2 and PA increases the water flux (380 L·h−1·m−2) and hydrophilicity (contact angle = 61.8°) of PSF. The modified PSF demonstrates a negative potential under neutral pH conditions. Notably, at pH = 7, PA-SiO 2 /PSF exhibits the highest adsorption performance (q e = 1052.01 mg/m2) and selectivity (K d = 16161.96 mL/m2) for U(VI), with an 82 % recovery ratio of U(VI) achieved after five adsorption-desorption cycles. Moreover, the dynamic adsorption effect of PA-SiO 2 /PSF surpasses that of static adsorption. Therefore, this study presents a straightforward method of modifying polysulfone membranes, with potential applicability in uranium adsorption from seawater. [Display omitted] • PA-SiO 2 /PSF is synthetized by blending with phytic acid functional particles. • PA-SiO 2 /PSF has excellent water flux with silicon dioxide as a modified carrier by phytic acid. • Compared with PSF, PA-SiO 2 /PSF has higher adsorption capacity. • PA-SiO 2 /PSF has higher adsorption selectivity for uranium than other metal cations. • PA-SiO 2 /PSF has high removal rate in simulated sea with dynamic adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uranyl ion is a powerful oxidant after photoexcited, making it a good catalyst for organic matters. In this work, we have demonstrated that uranyl ion itself could photodegrade various organic dyes and different influence factors were also investigated. Besides, we synthesized silica with high adsorption capacity for uranyl ions and found that the adsorbed uranyl ions were still capable to degrade organic dyes, thus to synthesize a uranium-based solid photocatalyst (U/SiO 2) with a simple way. A variety of experiments under different conditions were taken out to verify the degradation property of U/SiO 2. The results revealed that uranyl ions adsorbed on silica transformed into solid product (metastudtite) after photo-reacted with dyes, realizing the solidification of uranium and the degradation of dyes simultaneously. It also demonstrated that metastudtite are unable to degrade dyes, which also provided reference for other related works. This work broadened the application field of depleted uranium, provided a simple method for synthesizing uranium-based solid catalysts, which was also suitable for other adsorbents and we can adsorb uranium from wastewater and then applied them for dye degradation to realize the purpose of treating waste with waste. [Display omitted] • Uranyl ion itself could photodegrade various organic dyes. • Uranyl ions adsorbed on silica are still capable to degrade organic dyes. • Provide a simple method to prepare uranyl based solid photocatalyst. • Expand the application field of DU and realize the idea of treating waste with waste [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indiscriminate use of insecticides has directly contributed to the development of resistance in stored product insect pests, raising grave concerns about food contamination from toxic residues. This alarming situation has necessitated the exigency of exploring alternative, eco-friendly pest management strategies. Consequently, this study aimed to exploit paddy husk, an abundant agricultural waste product, for synthesizing silica powders and subsequently to evaluate their insecticidal potential as a seed protectant against the notorious pulse beetle , Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae), in chickpea. Amorphous silica gel, Amorphous silica precipitate and diatomaceous earth were individually applied at two different concentrations to chickpea seeds. Mortality assessments of C. chinensis adults were conducted at regular intervals after exposure to treated seeds, immediately and up to six months after storage (MAS). Data on adult emergence of C. chinensis , its damage and weight loss of chickpea seeds were recorded bi-monthly for a storage period of six months. The results revealed that seeds treated with 500 ppm of amorphous silica gel resulted in 100% mortality of C. chinensis adults by fifth day after exposure, even after extended storage periods of four months and six months. Remarkably, no adult emergence, seed damage, weight loss, lowest beetle perforation index and inhibition rate of 100 % pertaining to adult emergence was observed in treated seeds for six months storage period under ambient conditions. The paddy husk silica powders and diatomaceous earth effectively protected the seeds. The findings demonstrated the promising insecticidal potential of amorphous silica gel at 500 ppm against C. chinensis , presenting a viable alternative to conventional synthetic insecticides for controlling stored product insect pests. • This study investigated the entomotoxicity of paddy husk amorphous silica powders as a seed protectant for a storage period of six months. • Amorphous silica gel at 500 ppm proved to be an effective seed protectant against Callosobruchus chinensis in stored chickpeas. • Paddy husk amorphous silica powders recorded lowest beetle perforation index and 100% inhibition rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicosis is an irreversible interstitial lung fibrosis resulting from persistent inflammation induced by long-term inhalation of SiO 2 dust. Treatment and early diagnosis are extremely challenging due to the lack of specific targets and biomarkers. MiRNAs play an important role in the early diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, due to their stability, small variations, and easy detection. Exosomes have become fashionable candidates to deliver miRNAs. However, the specific role of exosomes-loaded miRNAs in silicosis inflammation and fibrosis remains unclear. In the present study, the expression profile of serum exosomal miRNAs in the peripheral blood of silicosis patients was determined by transcritome sequencing. MiR-23a-3p was recognized as a protector against silicosis by bioinformatic analysis. The expression and regulatory axis of miR-23a-3p and its predicted target gene CUL3 were then confirmed. The therapeutic role of the miR-23a-3p/CUL3 axis and its alleviating effect on SiO 2 -induced apoptosis were verified in mice and in epithelial cells. Furthermore, the communication of exosomes carrying miR-23a-3p between macrophages and epithelial cells was demonstrated using a cell co-culture model. Our results suggest that exosomal miR-23a-3p could be prospective as a biomarker in early diagnose for SiO 2 -induced lung fibrosis, and provided new threads for the treatment of silicosis. • Provide the profile of exosomal miRNAs expression in silicosis patients (stage I). • A key miRNA, miR-23a-3p, was screened in serum exosome of silicosis patients using bioinformatic analysis. • miR-23a-3p contributed to inhibition of the SiO 2 -induced epithelial apoptosis through targeting Cul3. • Overexpressing miR-23a-3p could alleviate mice lung inflammation and fibrosis induced by SiO 2 exposure. • The communicatory role of exosome between macrophage and epithelial after SiO 2 exposure was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged inhalation of environmental crystalline silica (CS) can cause silicosis, characterized by persistent pulmonary inflammation and irreversible fibrosis, but the mechanism has not been elucidated. To uncover the role and underlying mechanism of glycolytic reprogramming in CS-induced pulmonary inflammation, the mouse silicosis models and glycolysis inhibition models were established in vivo. And the CS-induced macrophage activation models were utilized to further explore the underlying mechanism in vitro. The results showed that CS induced lung inflammation accompanied by glycolytic reprogramming and pyroptosis. The application of glycolysis inhibitor (2-DG) suppressed CS-induced pyroptosis and alleviated lung inflammation. In vitro , 2-DG effectively impeded CS-induced macrophage pyroptosis and inflammatory response. Mechanistically, 2-DG suppressed pyroptosis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation both in vivo and in vitro. Furtherly, metabolite lactate facilitated NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis synergistically with CS particles, while blocking the source of lactate largely alleviated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequent pyroptosis triggered by CS. More profoundly, the increment of lactate induced by CS might drive NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis by increasing histone lactylation levels. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated inhibiting glycolytic reprogramming could alleviate CS-induced inflammatory response through suppressing NLRP3 -dependent pyroptosis. Increased glycolytic metabolite lactate and protein lactylation modifications might represent significant mechanisms during CS-induced NLRP3 activation and macrophage pyroptosis. [Display omitted] • Glycolysis inhibition alleviated silica-induced lung inflammation. • Glycolytic reprogramming drove NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis induced by silica. • Lactate promoted NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis synergistically with silica. • Lactate contributed to NLRP3 activation by promoting lactylation modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reversed halo sign (RHS) is a radiological feature described as a focal, rounded area of ground-glass opacity surrounded by a ring of consolidation. In this report we describe two unique radiological cases demonstrating diffuse bilateral infiltrates with multiple RHSs in chest CT scans. Both patients were ultimately diagnosed as having tuberculosis (TB) and had been exposed to silica in the past. This report presents for the first time an association between silica exposure and RHS on CT scans among TB patients. It highlights the importance of having a high index of suspicion for TB in similar scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The spin dynamics of ferrihydrite using ac susceptibility (real ( χ ′ (T)) and imaginary ( χ ″ (T)) is explored. • Remanent magnetization (IRM/TRM) as a function of temperature and applied field are reported. • The Vogel-Fulcher model was used to highlight the effect of interparticle interactions. Magnetic properties of 2- and 6-line ferrihydrite (2LFh and 6LFh, respectively) as well as 2-line ferrihydrite embedded in SiO 2 (2LFh/SiO 2) in the temperature range 2–380 K are investigated using DC magnetization and AC magnetic susceptibility measurements. All the samples exhibit superparamagnetic (SPM) responses at temperatures above their respective blocking temperatures in the range T B = 36–50 K. Linear extrapolations of 1/χ' vs. T at 80 Hz and high temperatures give effective magnetic moment per atom μ eff = 5.78 μ B for 2LFh, μ eff = 6.27 μ B for 2LLFh/SiO 2 and μ eff = 5.20 μ B for 6LFh using Curie-Weiss law. The Arrhenius plots give anisotropy constants K = 4.5 × 105 J/m3 for 2LFh, K = 5.5 × 105 J/m3 and K = 1.5 × 105 J/m3 for 6LFh using the particles size of 40, 35 and 60 Å derived from TEM data on the same samples. The number of uncompensated moments at the surfaces which contribute to the overall magnetic moments of the particles were estimated from the Néel model for antiferromagnetic nanoparticles and yielded magnetic moment per particle μ p ∼ 283 μ B , 251μ B and 465 μ B for 2LFh, 2LFh/SiO 2 and 6LFh, respectively. At 10 K, well thin the magnetic regime, the spins are blocked in specific directions resulting in usually large M S which appears to increase with decreasing nanoparticle size. Demagnetization behaviors were used as fingerprint techniques to identify the magnetic ordering and the nature of the interactions within the samples, they confirm the existence of AFM core at temperature below T B superimposed to a ferrimagnetic-like shell (at the surface). IRM/TRM measurements, particularly the TRM characteristic peaks at specific fields ranging from H = 10–40 kOe confirmed the existence of a spin-glass state below T B in the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si) utilization is not limited to eukaryotes. Recent research has suggested that the pattern of a large contribution of picocyanobacteria to biogenic silica (bSi) stocks might be widespread in the oligotrophic open ocean. We are the first to measure the size-fractionated bSi standing stocks and production rates in the oligotrophic South China Sea (SCS), which has obvious characteristics of oligotrophic waters. The 150 m integrated bSi standing stocks in the pico-sized fractions averaged 23 % of the total; the contribution of picoplankton to the total bSi production rate was 44 %. Interestingly, our estimated contributions of Synechococcus alone to the <2 μm bSi standing stock and < 2 μm bSi production rates averaged 14 % and 66 %, respectively, indicating that the significant and persistent contribution of bSi was strongly associated with marine picocyanobacteria. Furthermore, the dynamic changes in nutrient concentrations, especially in DIN and DIP, also potentially affected the variability in picoplankton bSi stocks and production rates, while the effects of temperature and salinity were not obvious. In this study, we have provided new information on measurable bSi in the picoplankton size fraction and its production rate in the SCS. We have demonstrated that picoplankton contributes a measurable, and at times significant, proportion to both the total bSi standing stock and its production rate in the SCS. A high silicon content within picocyanobacteria has important implications for understanding both their ecology and their contribution to biogeochemistry. • Biogenic silica production of picoplankton in the South China Sea are presented. • The contribution of picoplankton to the total bSi production rate is nearly 50 %. • The high silicon content in Synechococcus has important implications for Si cycle. • Nutrient has a potential effect on the variability of picoplankton bSi stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of surfactants and nanoparticles in minimizing wax deposition related problems such as flow assurance is considered an attractive alternative among other techniques but limited researches have been carried out in investigating the method. High viscosity crude oil needs to be treated with viscosity reducer to facilitate transportation and processing. In this study, the efficiency of the viscosity reducer, a Gemini surfactant 2,5,8,11 Tetramethyl 6 dodecyn-5,8 Diol Ethoxylate, three different nanoparticles: silicon dioxide (SiO 2), tin oxide (SnO) and nickel (III) oxide (Ni 2 O 3) and their novel blends at different range of concentration, temperature, shear rate and surfactant/nanoparticle loading ratio are assessed in order to study their influence on the viscosity of Malaysian crude oil using Brookfield DV-III viscometer. The separate use of Gemini surfactant and nanoparticles alone resulted in significant reduction in crude oil viscosity. The combined use of Gemini surfactant and nanoparticles showed better performance as compared to their corresponding individual use. The presence of surfactant improves the adsorption of nanoparticles by functionalizing their surfaces. Adsorption and adhesion of wax molecules onto the surface of nanoparticles and surfactants prevents them from aggregating. This results in increment in viscosity reduction. Overall, the viscosity of crude oil was reduced about 85–92% at 10 ℃ with the aid of Gemini surfactant and nanoparticles. The highest viscosity reduction obtained was 92.8% using the blend of Gemini surfactant and silicon dioxide. The findings of the study are expected to contribute to the crude oil industry in improving flow in production and transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the contemporary textile sector, antimicrobial fabrics have an increasing global interest. This study focused on the development of antimicrobial cotton fabrics impregnated with nanocomposite. The nanocomposite was prepared by nanoparticles of Ag loaded with nano SiO2. As a cutting-edge alternative raw material, Eragrostis teff straw was used to synthesis SiO2 nanoparticles (SiO2NPs) by sol–gel technique. Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) were obtained via green synthesis from silver nitrate (AgNO3) using Ocimum lamiifolium plant extract as a reducing agent. Stőber method was applied to obtain SiO2 impregnated Ag nanocomposite (SiO2@AgNC). The nanocomposite was characterised by different techniques, such as FTIR, XRD, BET, and SEM. Further, SiO2@AgNC was utilised to load in cotton fabric to develop an antimicrobial fabric. The antimicrobial proficiency of developed fabrics was investigated through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bacterial concentration (MBC) against selected bacterial species, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. From the results, the MIC for S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli was found to be 0.60 mg/ml, 0.45 mg/mL, and 1.05 mg/ml, respectively. The MBC for S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli were found to be and 0.75 mg/ml, and 1.00 mg/ml, and 2.00 mg/ml, respectively. The inferences revealed that the developed fabrics could be applied extensively including healthcare, packaging materials, protective clothing, and others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Lanthanide ion (Ln3+) doped Y2O3 materials are used in making display devices. Ln3+ ions can occupy C2 and S6 sites in Y2O3. In many reported papers, Ln3+ ions occupy more C2 site leading to enhanced luminescence intensity of electric dipole transition as compared to that of magnetic dipole transition. In this study, we have prepared Eu3+ ion doped Y2O3 particles dispersed in silica (SiO2) using urea hydrolysis at 165°C. Among the prepared samples lower heated sample show cubic phase Y2O3 wherease 1400oC show α-Y2Si2O7 and all the samples show the luminescence characteristics of Eu3+. In Y2O3:Eu-SiO2, the as-prepared, 500 and 900°C heated samples show the higher luminescence intensity for the electric dipole transition than that of magnetic dipole transition and it is opposite upon annealed at 1400°C. It confirms that Eu3+ ions in as-prepared, 500 and 900°C heated samples occupy C2 site (asymmetric environment), whereas in 1400°C heated sample, they occupy the S6 site (symmetric environment). However, microparticles of the Y2O3:Eu sample annealed at 1400°C show that Eu3+ ions occupy more C2 site as compared to the S6 site. This study suggests that occupancy of C2 and S6 sites in Y2O3 by Eu3+ ions can be varied by surrounding medium as well as heat-treatment temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statement of the Problem: The administration of both platelet rich plasma (PRP) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) to the bone defects accelerates bone repair and regeneration. Application of both of them may show synergistic regenerative effects. Purpose: Our objective was to evaluate the possible synergistic osteogenic effects of PRP and SiO2 by injecting them using an ad hoc device. Materials and Method: In this experimental study, PRP/SiO2 scaffolds were fabricated by in situ casting method with the help of CaCl2 as the gelation factor and alginate as the stroma; and then, the biodegradability and spatial arrangement were assessed. The injectable scaffold was introduced into the 40 rabbit mandibular defects by an ad hoc two-channel injecting device. Five defects received PRP/SiO2/alginate as the treatment; the other sets of defects were treated by PRP/alginate, SiO2/alginate, and the last five defects served as the control groups by getting only alginate injections. The osteogenicity of the scaffolds was evaluated by radiological and histological procedures; they were then compared with each other. Analysis of variance and least significant difference tests were used to analyze the data. Results: The SiO2-treated group showed a significant higher bone area compared to PRP/ SiO2-treated groups on day 40 (p= 0.013). The number of osteocytes was higher in SiO2- treated than the control groups on both 20 and 40 days (p= 0.032 and 0.022, respectively). The number of osteoclast was also higher in SiO2-treated than PRP-treated group (p= 0.028). In addition, the cells of this group had just started to create Haversian systems in newly formed bone tissues. Conclusion: Silica demonstrated a superior osteogenic activity over PRP in both short and long term periods. Evidently, they showed no synergistic regenerative effects. Our ad hoc device was efficiently capable of inserting the scaffolds into the injured sites with no difficulties or complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports a novel technique to synthesise silica nanoparticles through modified sol-gel, ultrasonication, and hydrothermal routes. Physio-chemical and structural characterization was carried out using X-ray diffraction, high resolution scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The particle size determination revealed the spherical structure of nanoparticles with an average diameter of 85 nm and between 90-170 nm through HRSEM and DLS respectively. Stretching and vibration bands confirming the presence of SiO2 were obtained in FTIR analysis. Spectra from UV-vis and PL spectroscopy were obtained at a maximum wavelength of 233 nm and 555 nm respectively. The anti-microbial effect of SiO2 nanoparticles against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria revealed the appreciable response which renders them for many biomedical applications like drug delivery. The cytotoxicity of SiO2 nanoparticles on human lung epithelial (A549) cell line revealed their non-toxic behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, silica products are widely used in daily life, especially in skin applications, which inevitably increases the risk of silica exposure in general population. However, inadequate awareness of silica's potential hazards and lack of self-protection are of concern. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by progressive tissue fibrosis under environmental and genetic interactions. Silica exposure is considered an important causative factor for SSc, but its pathogenesis remains unclear. Within this study, we showed that lower doses of silica significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and activation of human skin fibroblasts (HSFs) within 24 h. Silica injected subcutaneously into mice induced and exacerbated skin fibrosis. Notably, silica increased histone deacetylase-4 (HDAC4) expression by inducing its DNA hypomethylation in normal HSFs. The elevated HDAC4 expression was also confirmed in SSc HSFs. Furthermore, HDAC4 was positively correlated with Smad2/3 phosphorylation and COL1, α-SMA, and CTGF expression. The HDAC4 inhibitor LMK235 mitigated silica-induced upregulation of these factors and alleviated skin fibrosis in SSc mice. Taken together, silica induces and exacerbates skin fibrosis in SSc patients by targeting the HDAC4/Smad2/3 pathway. Our findings provide new insights for evaluating the health hazards of silica exposure and identify HDAC4 as a potential interventional target for silica-induced SSc skin fibrosis. [Display omitted] • Silica exposure boosts proliferation, migration, and activation of skin fibroblasts. • Silica exposure induces DNA hypomethylation of HDAC4 and increase its expression. • Silica induces and exacerbates skin fibrosis by targeting the HDAC4/Smad2/3 pathway. • HDAC4 inhibition alleviates silica-induced skin fibrosis in systemic sclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferrate (Fe(VI)) is an environmentally-friendly chemical oxidant employed in water and wastewater treatment. The effect of montmorillonite (MMT) on the abatement of diclofenac (DCF) by Fe(VI) was studied. Results indicate that the presence of 200 mg/L MMT enhanced the second-order rate constant for the reaction between DCF and Fe(VI) from 117 to 219 M-1 s-1 at pH 7.6, whereas no significant enhancement was observed for silicon dioxide and kaolinite. In-situ formed Fe(III) from Fe(VI) decay played important roles on the enhanced oxidation of DCF by Fe(VI). In addition, no enhancement was observed in phosphate buffer since phosphate could sequester Fe(III). A similar enhancement of DCF abatement by Fe(VI) in the presence of MMT can be observed using preformed Fe-MMT. Adsorbed Fe(III) which is present in the form of FeOOH can increase the layer spacing of MMT from 11.4 to 15.0 Å. In-situ formed Fe-MMT increases the oxidation efficiency of methylphenyl sulfoxide, a probe compound. Addition of 50 mg/L MMT during Fe(VI) oxidation can increase the yield of reactive high-valent iron intermediates (e.g., Fe(IV) and Fe(V)) by 43%. This work provides new insights into Fe(VI) application in pre-oxidation for the abatement of micropollutants in water treatment processes. [Display omitted] • Montmorillonite increased reaction rate constants of diclofenac with Fe(VI). • Secondarily formed Fe(III) from Fe(VI) was adsorbed by montmorillonite to form FeOOH. • FeOOH intercalated montmorillonite increased Fe(IV)/Fe(V) generation from Fe(VI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicosis is a disease characterized by lung inflammation and fibrosis caused by long-term inhalation of free silicon dioxide (SiO 2). Recent studies have found that a large number of lymphatic hyperplasia occurs during the occurrence and development of silicosis. miRNAs play an important role in lymphangiogenesis. However, the regulation and mechanism of miRNAs on lymphangiogenesis in silicosis remain unclear. In this study, lymphangiogenesis was observed in silicosis rats, and VEGF-C-targeted miRNAs were screened, and the effect of miRNAs on the formation of human lymphatic endothelial cells (HLECs) tubular structure was investigated in vitro. The results showed that SiO 2 promoted the expressions of Collagen Ι and α-SMA, TNF-α, IL-6 and VEGF-C increased first and then decreased, and promoted the formation of lymphatic vessels. Bioinformatics methods screened miR-455–3p for targeted binding to VEGF-C, and dual luciferase reporter genes confirmed VEGF-C as the target gene of miR-455–3p, and miR-455–3p was down-regulated in the lung tissue of silicosis rats. Transfection of miR-455–3p Inhibitors down-regulated the expression level of miR-455–3p and up-regulated the expression levels of VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 in HLECs, enhanced migration ability and increased tube formation. Transfection of miR-455–3p Mimics showed an opposite trend. These results suggest that miR-455–3p further regulates the tubular structure formation of HLECs by regulating VEGF-C/VEGFR3. Therefore, targeting miR-455–3p may provide a new therapeutic strategy for SiO 2 -induced silicosis injury. • The expression of miR-455–3p was decreased in the lung tissue of silicosis rats. • The dual luciferase reporter gene confirmed VEGF-C as the target gene of miR-455–3p. • Lymphangiogenesis plays an important role in the progression of silicosis. • miR-455–3p regulates lymphangiogenesis in silicosis by regulating VEGF-C/VEGFR3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]