Mining and processing tailings often contain significant amounts of valuable metals, that can represent valuable sources of secondary raw materials. Especially this is case in early-stage operations, in which the head grades were higher, and the tailings were higher grade. These tailings can also present a substantial risk to the environment. Serbia has copper deposits which have been exploited since ancient times, and these operations have generated large amounts of mineral processing tailings. The main objective of this study is to show how valuables can be recovered from chemically and mineralogically challenging tailings. After detailed chemical and mineralogical characterization, the laboratory scale flotation tests focused on evaluating the effect of particle size, different types of collectors, pH, and pulp potential. Based on the test work, copper and gold can be recovered effectively into pyrite concentrate

Doped copper overpacks are planned to be utilized in the spent nuclear fuel repositories in Finland and in Sweden. The assessment of long-term integrity of the material is a matter of importance. Grain structure variations, segregation and any possible manufacturing defects in microstructure are relevant in terms of susceptibility to creep and damage from the loading evolution imposed by its operating environment. This work focuses on studying the microstructure level length-scale dependent deformation behavior of the material, of particular significance with respect to accumulation of plasticity over the extensive operational period of the overpacks. Reduced micromorphic crystal plasticity model, which is similar to strain gradient models, is used in this investigation. Firstly, the model’s size dependent plasticity effects are evaluated. Secondly, different microstructural aggregates presenting overpack sections are analyzed. Grain size dependent hardening responses, i.e., Hall-Petch like behavior, can be achieved with the enhanced hardening associated with the micromorphic model at polycrystalline level. It was found that the nominally large grain size in the base material of the overpack shows lower strain hardening potential than the fine grained region of the welded microstructure with stronger strain gradient related hardening effects. Size dependent regularization of strain localization networks is indicated as a desired characteristics of the model. The findings can be utilized to provide an improved basis for modeling the viscoplastic deformation behavior of the studied copper alloy and assess the microstructural origins of any integrity concerns explicitly by way of full field modeling.

Friction stir alloying (FSA) of commercially pure Cu with Ni, Zn, and Mg is implemented in the current study. The successfully fabricated alloy structure has been scrutinized in terms of mechanical and micro-structural standpoints. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed a uniform distribution of alloying elements and coalescence at the atomic level. The compositional and grain size heterogeneity is managed in the stir zone, which pave way for microstructural control using FSA. Thus, the present study carries significance for the development of novel materials whose fabrication requires temperature far below the melting point of base metals. Ultra-refinement of grains is found to accompany the alloying process, with ~ 440 nm being the smallest grain size. Maximum and average micro-hardness enhancement of 18.4 % and 6 % is observed for the fabricated alloy. Tensile properties have also been investigated and co-related with the micro-structural morphology. The shift towards grain bimodality has also been reported, which is a highly sought property in the present day, especially to overcome the strength-ductility trade-off.

Mitigation of Anthropogenic CO2 emissions possess a major global challenge for modern societies. Herein catalytic solutions are meant to play a key role. Among the different catalysts for CO2 conversion Cu supported on molybdenum carbide is receiving increasing attention. Hence, in the present communication we show the activity, selectivity and stability of fresh-prepared -Mo2C catalysts and compare the results with those of Cu/Mo2C, Cs/Mo2C and Cu/Cs/Mo2C in CO2 hydrogenation reactions. The results showed that all the catalysts were active and the main reaction product was methanol. The results showed that copper-cesium and molybdenum effectively interact and that cesium promoted the formation of metallic Mo. While, the incorporation of copper is positive to improve the activity and selectivity to methanol, the presence of Mo0 phase was detrimental for the conversion and selectivity. Moreover, the catalysts promoted by cesium underwent redox surface transformations during the reaction that diminished their catalytic performance. The molybdenum phase in Cu/Mo2C changes during reaction leading to metallic molybdenum and tuning the catalytic activity.

Copper, which can potentially be a highly toxic agent, is an essential nutrient due to its role as a co-factor for cuproenzymes and participation in signaling pathways. In mammals, the liver is a central organ that controls copper turnover throughout the body: copper absorption, distribution, and excretion. In ontogenesis, there are two types of copper metabolism: embryonic and adult, which maintain the balance of copper in each of these periods, respectively. In the liver cells, these types are characterized by specific expression patterns and activity levels of the genes encoding ceruloplasmin, which is the main extracellular ferroxidase and copper transporter and proteins mediating ceruloplasmin metalation. In newborns, the molecular-genetic mechanisms responsible for copper homeostasis and the ontogenetic switch from embryonic to adult copper metabolism are highly adapted to milk ceruloplasmin as a dietary source of copper. In the mammary gland cells, the level of ceruloplasmin gene expression and the alternative splicing of its pre-mRNA govern the amount of ceruloplasmin in milk, and thus, the amount of copper absorbed by the newborn is controlled. In the newborns, absorption, distribution, and accumulation copper are adapted to milk ceruloplasmin. In the newborns, which are not breast-fed at the early stages of postnatal development, the control for alimentary copper balance is absent. We tried to focus on the neonatal consequences of a violation of the balance of copper in the mother / newborn system. Although there is still much to be learned, the time to pay attention to this problem came because the neonatal misbalance of copper may provoke the development of copper related disorders for future life.

A novel and simple method to improve the corrosion resistance of copper by constructing a 3D 1-dodecanethiol self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) in 3.5% NaCl solution is reported in this study. Several drops of 1% H3PO4 solution are thinly and uniformly distributed on copper surface to form a 3D nanostructure constituted by Cu3(PO4)2 nanoflowers. The anticorrosion properties of 1-dodecanethiol SAMs on copper surface and on copper surface treated with H3PO4 solution were evaluated. Results demonstrated that 1-dodecanethiol SAMs on bare copper surface exhibit good protection capacity, whereas a copper surface pretreated with H3PO4 solution can substantially enhance the corrosion resistance of 1-dodecanethiol SAMs.

Pollution caused by copper is one of the key factors of environment contamination. As one of heavy metals, copper is hard to decompose in nature, the biological enrichment of which may lead to severe damage to health. Cu²⁺ detection, thus, possesses a bright application prospect both in environment protection and in human health. In this paper, a dual-functional fluorescence-magnetic composite nano-platform has been designed to sensitively detect, meanwhile capture and remove Cu²⁺ in the solution of water and ethanol (1:1, v/v). The core-shell structure nanoparticle synthesized by using Fe₃O₄ as core and SiO₂ as shell, is covalently bonded with rhodamine derivatives on the silica layer to construct the nano-platform. The emission is increased upon the addition of Cu²⁺, showing fluorescence turn on effect for the detection, and the limit of detection which was as low as 1.68 nM. Meanwhile, Cu²⁺ ions are captured by the coordination with rhodamine derivatives, and can be removable with the help of magnetic field.

A simple, efficient and stand-alone method for purification of river water using moringa seed powder and copper is discussed. Coagulant property of the seed powder clears turbid raw water and the oligodynamic activity of copper completely destroys E.coli bacteria. Both raw and treated water samples were tested for contaminants to verify the efficacy of the system. Treated water has turbidity in the range 3 NTU - 5 NTU and non-detected (< 1 MPN/100 mL) E.coli count making it suitable for drinking. The technique is very cost effective and can be practiced anywhere using locally available materials. It does not require a power source or any technical assistance. Being a stand-alone system the technique exceptionally useful in providing drinking water as an immediate solution in disaster areas affected by cyclone or floods.

The assessment of Histone deacetylases in conjunction with Curcumin, conducted through the Mcule Database employing the Autodock Vina algorithm, involves an examination of molecular interactions. This analysis includes the calculation of binding energies, revealing the strength and stability of the interactions between Curcumin and various Histone deacetylase targets. The comparison encompasses diverse aspects such as binding energies, specific binding sites, interactions across different targets, structural details, and potential implications for biological activity. The results imply that Curcumin shows heightened affinity for Histone deacetylase 4 in comparison to other investigated histone deacetylases.

Curcumin and trans-cinnamaldehyde are acrolein-based Michael acceptor compounds that are commonly found in domestic condiments, and known to cause cancer cell death via redox mechanisms. Based on the structural features of these compounds we designed and synthesized several 2-cinnamamido-N-substituted-cinnamamide (bis-cinnamamide) compounds. One of the derivatives, (Z)-2-[(E)-cinnamamido]-3-phenyl-N-propylacrylamide 1512 showed a moderate antiproliferative potency (HCT-116 cell line inhibition of 32.0 µM), good selectivity profile (no inhibition of normal cell lines), and proven cellular activities leading to apoptosis. SAR studies led to more than 10-fold increase in activity. Our most promising compound, [(Z)-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-N-propyl-2-[(E)-3-(thien-2-yl)propenamido)propenamide] 4112 killed colon cancer cells at IC50 = 0.89 µM (Caco-2), 2.85 µM (HCT-116) and 1.65 µM (HT-29), while exhibiting much weaker potency on C-166 and BHK normal cell lines (IC50 = 71 µM and 77.6 µM, respectively). Cellular studies towards identifying the compounds mechanism of cytotoxic activities revealed that apoptotic induction occurs in part as a result of oxidative stress. Importantly, the compounds showed inhibition of cancer stem cells that are critical for maintaining the potential for self-renewal and stemness. The results presented here show discovery of covalently-acting Michael addition compounds that potently kill cancer cells by a defined mechanism, with minimal effect on normal noncancerous cell.

Curcumin, a natural polyphenolic compound isolated from the plant Curcuma longa, is known to induce autophagy in various cancer cells, including lung cancer. In the present study, we also confirmed by LC3 immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analyses that curcumin triggers autophagy in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line. In parallel with autophagy induction, gene expression of human GD3 synthase (hST8Sia I) responsible for ganglioside GD3 synthesis was markedly elevated in response to curcumin in A549 cells. To investigate transcriptional activation of hST8Sia I associated with autophagy formation in curcumin-treated A549 cells, functional characterization of the 5’-flanking region of the hST8Sia I gene was carried out using luciferase reporter assay system. Deletion analysis demonstrated that the -1146 to -646 region, which includes putative c-Ets-1, CREB, AP-1 and NF-κB binding sites, functions as the curcumin-responsive promoter of hST8Sia I in A549 cells. Site-directed mutagenesis and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that the NF-κB binding site at -731 to -722 was indispensable for the curcumin-induced hST8Sia I gene expression in A549 cells. Moreover, the transcriptional activation of hST8Sia I by curcumin A549 cells was strongly inhibited by compound C, an inhibitor of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). These results suggest that curcumin controls hST8Sia I gene expression via AMPK signal pathway in A549 cells.

Porous metals possess low bulk density, large specific strength, high stiffness and special thermal, electromagnetic and acoustic conductivity, so that porous metals are widely used in filtration and separation, flame retardant explosion-proof, biomedical application, etc. Compared with its corresponding dense metal, the presence of porous structures also leads to different corrosive performances of porous metal. So, some researches have utilized weight loss method, electrochemical impedance to evaluate porous metals’ corrosion behavior; however, the influence of pore structure on metal corrosion is still controversial, and present methods used for analyses of porous metals’ corrosion are statistical averages of the corrosion behavior of the entire porous material, which cannot accurately reflect the corrosion behavior inside the pore structure. Herein, we prepare porous copper samples with 0, 24, 72, 96 pores using mechanical process, and employ scanning kelvin probe combined with electrochemical polarization curve and impedance spectroscopy to test the corrosion performance of the porous copper in static and dynamic NaCl solution. The relevant results indicate that in static solution, the corrosion resistance of samples gradually increases with the rise of the number of pores. By contrast, the sample with 24 pores exhibits more susceptible to corrosion than the sample without pore.

The flow stress of face-centered cubic (FCC) metals exhibits a rapid increase near a strain rate of 104 s-1 under fixed strain conditions. However, many existing constitutive models either fail to capture the mechanical characteristics of this plastic deformation or use piecewise strain rate hardening models to describe this phenomenon. Unfortunately, the piecewise models may suffer from issues such as discontinuity of physical quantities and difficulties in determining segment markers, and struggling to reflect the underlying physical mechanisms that give rise to this mutation phenomenon. In light of this, this paper proposes that the abrupt change in flow stress sensitivity to strain rate in FCC metals can be attributed to microstructural evolution characteristics. To address this, a continuous semi-empirical physical constitutive model for FCC metals is established based on the microstructural size evolution proposed by Molinari-Ravichandran and the dislocation motion slip mechanism. This model effectively describes the mutation behavior of strain rate sensitivity under fixed strain, particularly evident in the annealed OFHC. The predicted results of the model across a wide range of strain rates (10-4 − 106 s-1) and temperatures (77 − 1096 K) demonstrate relative errors generally within ±10% of the experimental values. Furthermore, the model is compared to five other models, including Mechanical Threshold Stress (MTS), Nemat-Nasser-Li (NNL), Preston-Tonks-Wallace (PTW), Johnson-Cook (JC), and Molinari-Ravichandran (MR) models. A comprehensive illustration of errors reveals that the proposed model outperforms the other five models in describing the plastic deformation behavior of OFHC. The error results offer valuable insights for selecting appropriate models for engineering applications and provide significant contributions to the field.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has a significant global impact on human, animal, and environmental health. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics in clinical and animal production settings are the main drivers behind the emergence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria. However, other compounds with antimicrobial activity may also contribute to this global public health problem. The aim of this comprehensive review is to provide detailed insights into the impact of metals and organic acids on the emergence and spread of AMR in the food chain, for which their role is not fully understood. The review examines the widespread use of organic acids in the food industry as feed additives or disinfectants, the crucial role of copper in animal growth and the harmful effects of mercury and arsenic as pollutants in food-producing environments. Additionally, it explores the antimicrobial mechanisms of metals and organic acids, the tolerance mechanisms developed by bacteria, and the interplay between genes responsible for metal tolerance and AMR. The comprehensive and integrated data presented highlights the need to further explore and understand the role of metals and organic acids as drivers of AMR to develop well-defined strategies effectively mitigating the AMR crisis within the food chain context.

This work aims to follow the corrosion behavior of copper in 3 wt% NaCl solution in the presence of a bio-oily extract. Spent coffee grounds (SCG), a highly recyclable and usable biomass - often thrown away and becoming a serious threat to the environment - , has a fraction of oils (12%) that we have opted to use as a corrosion inhibitor for copper. The extraction was carried out using n-hexane as the solvent for the decoction. The oily fraction was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Potentiodynamic polarization measurements have revealed SCG extract acts as a cathode-type inhibitor for copper in saline media, mainly preventing the diffusion of oxygen molecules toward the substrate. As the extract concentration increased, the inhibition efficiency has improved as well, reaching 95.78 % with 0.6 g/L of SCG extract. The obtained results by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) are in accordance with the order of inhibitory efficiency obtained by potentiodynamic polarization. We have found that the SCG extract adsorption process on copper surface is spontaneous and complies with Langmuir isotherm.

Sweet pepper is an important vegetable in the world. Bacterial leaf spot caused by the pathogen Xanthomonas perforans, is a limiting factor that significantly reduces the quality and yield of sweet pepper To control this disease, the use of chemical fungicides is currently the main disease control method. Thus, we want to develop an alternative method by using antagonistic microorganisms. Under this demand, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens PMB04 has strong antagonistic effects against pathogens and can inhibit the occurrence of diseases. B. amyloliquefaciens PMB04 has the potential for the development of a disease control product. Primarily, PMB04 revealed to contain a strong inhibitory effect against all isolated X. perforans strains. In the inoculation assay, the severity of bacterial spot disease on sweet peppers was reduced by PMB04 bacterial suspensions. To increase the convenience of field application for future prospects, the development of PMB04 fermentation liquid was carried out with different ratios of brown sugar and yeast extract in a 30-liter fermentation tank subsequently. Results exhibited that the fermentation liquid of 3-1 formula obtained the highest bacterial population in a 30-liter fermentation tank. The fermentation liquid of 0.5-0.5 formula was the most stable formula under two different conditions in terms of consistent bacterial population and sporulation. In addition, the 200-fold dilution of 3-1 and 0.5-0.5 fermentation liquids revealed best control efficacy on bacterial leaf spot of sweet pepper. Additionally, the results of the 0.5-0.5 fermentation liquid (PMB4FL) with different dilution concentrations also showed that the 200- and 500-fold dilutions had the best control efficacy. To understand the effect of commonly used copper-containing fungicides on sweet peppers on the application of microbial agent PMB4FL, the effects of copper hydroxide and tribasic copper sulfate on the growth of X. perforans strains and B. amyloliquefaciens PMB04 were assayed. The results exhibited that the above two fungicides did not have any inhibitory effect on the growth of PMB04, but had a strong inhibitory effect on the X. perforans strain. In the follow-up control experiment, the treatment of copper hydroxide had no synergistic effect with PMB4FL to control bacterial leaf spot. We concluded that the use of PMB4FL fermentation liquid alone on the leaves can effectively control the occurrence of bacterial leaf spot in sweet pepper crops.

Copper-based nanomaterials in the last decade attracted many researchers due to their extensive practical applications, unique, inexpensiveness, and wide availability. In addition to this, copper-based nanomaterials possess good thermal stability, and selectivity and also possess high activity. This review emphasis on the recent advances in the synthesis of copper nanomaterials and their wide applications in the field of environmental catalysis. This review aims to fill a significant knowledge gap in the different areas of environmental pollution management. Also, the paper concentrates on the recent applications of copper-based nanomaterials for environmental remediation, including the removal of heavy metals, and degradation of organic pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, and other environmental contaminants. Also, it will be helpful to young researchers in improving the suitability of implementing the Copper nanomaterials in the right way establishing and achieving sustainable goals for environmental remediation.

The importance of understanding the corrosion mechanisms of excavated metal artefacts help in determining the physico-chemical parameters of the burial environment and the formation of different corrosion products. These products can be observed and analysed with the help of various techniques that provide information on their morphology, chemical composition and structure. The analysis of ancient coins is extremely challenging in the presence of heavily corroded surfaces; as quantitative information may not exactly concur with its bulk composition. In the case of silver coins, the use of surface information can be used as a guide for bulk composition only. The current study carries out investigation and characterization of selected coins from a large coin hoard excavated from Amheida, Dakhla oasis, Egypt. The study and analysis of the alloy composition and corrosion products was performed using a multi-technique approach which included Light optical microscopes, Scanning Electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction analysis. Investigation of the coins revealed the presence of a thick active inhomogeneous corrosion crust, while analysis showed that the coins were made from a binary silver copper alloy (billon) while the corrosion crust was rich in chlorides and carbonates, later identified by XRD analysis as Paratacamite, Malachite and Chrysocolla.

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction can lead to high value-added molecules production while helping decrease anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Copper can reduce CO2 to more than thirty different hydrocarbons and oxygenates, but it lacks the required selectivity. We present a computational investigation of the role of nano-structuring and alloying in Cu-based catalysts on the activity and selectivity of CO2 reduction to one-carbon products: carbon monoxide, formic acid, formaldehyde, methanol, and methane. The adsorption, activation, and conversion of CO2 were computed on monometallic and bimetallic (decorated and core-shell) 55-atom Cu-based clusters. The dopant metals considered were Ag, Cd, Pd, Pt, and Zn, located at different coordination sites. The relative binding strength of the intermediates at different applied potentials were used to identify the optimal catalyst for the selective CO2 conversion to one carbon products. It was discovered that single atom doping with Cd and Zn is optimal for the CO2 to carbon monoxide conversion. The core-shell models with Ag, Pd, and Pt provided higher selectivity for formic acid and formaldehyde. The Cu-Pt and Cu-Pd showed lowest overpotential for methane formation.

Controlling and understanding Cu-catalyzed homocoupling reaction is crucial to prompt the development of efficient Cu-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. The presence of a coordinating base (hydroxide, methoxide) enables the B-to-Cu(II) transmetalation from aryl boronic acid to CuIICl2 in methanol, through formation of a mixed Cu-(μ-OH)-B intermediates. A second B-to-Cu transmetalation to form bis-aryl Cu(II) complexes is disfavored. Instead, organocopper(II) dimers undergo a coupled transmetalation-electron-transfer (TET) allowing the formation of a bis-organocopper(III) complexes readily promoting reductive elimination. Based on this mechanism some guidelines are suggested to control the undesired formation of homocoupling product in Cu-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions.

Modern technologies for recycling electronic waste (e-waste) impose high economic efficiency and environmental safety requirements. Among existing technologies, hydrometallurgy is considered the most promising technology for e-waste recycling. Increasing attention to the chlorination method is associated with the complex recycling of low-grade ores containing noble metals and secondary polymetallic raw materials. In this paper, we propose a new scheme for leaching metals from computer printed circuits (PCBs) pre-crushed in a disintegrator: the processes of chlorine production and hydrochlorination are implemented in one reactor under the action of alternating current (AC) of industrial frequency (50 Hz). It was found that complete leaching of gold is achieved from fine fractions of raw materials containing 0.03% and 0.01% of the gold at an experiment duration of 2 hours, a current density of 0.66 A·cm-2, and a solid/liquid ratio of 8.6 g·L-1. Under the same conditions of the electrochemical leaching process from the fraction of raw material with a gold content of 0.08%, the degree of metal leaching is 80.5%. At the same time, with an increase in the copper content in the raw material from 1.40% to 6.13%, an increase in the degree of its leaching from 84.6% to 95.2%, respectively, is observed. These results will serve as a foundation for developing a complex technology for recovering valuable metals from PCBs.

Measurements of copper and zinc in transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) show contradictory results.Aim of the study: To examine serum levels of these minerals in TDT in relation to iron overload indices and erythron variables. Methods: This study recruited 60 children with TDT and 30 healthy children aged 3-12 years old.Results: Zinc was significantly higher in TDT children than in control children, whilst copper and the copper to zinc ratio were significantly lowered in TDT. Serum zinc was significantly associated with the number of blood transfusions and iron overload variables (including serum iron and TS%) and negatively with erythron variables (including hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin). Serum copper was significantly and negatively associated with the same iron overload and erythron variables. The copper to zinc ratio was significantly correlated with iron, TS%, ferritin, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin. Albumin levels were significantly higher in TDT children than in control children. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the increase in zinc in children with TDT may be explained by iron loading anemia and hemolysis and the consequent shedding of high amounts of intracellular zinc into the plasma. Increased albumin levels and treatment with Desferral may further contribute towards higher zinc levels in TDT. We suggest that the elevations in zinc in TDT are a compensatory mechanism protecting against infection, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Previous proposals for prophylactic use of zinc supplements in TDT may not be warranted.

Copper-based nanoparticles were synthesized using the glycine–nitrate process (GNP) by using copper nitrate trihydrate [Cu(NO₃)₂‧3H₂O] as the main starting material and glycine [C₂H₅NO₂] as the complexing and incendiary agent. The as-prepared powders were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Using Cu(NO₃)₂.3H₂O as the oxidizer (N) and glycine as fuel (G), we obtained CuO, mixed-valence copper oxides (CuO + Cu₂O, G/N = 0.3–0.5), and metallic Cu (G/N = 0.7). The XRD and BET results indicated that increasing the glycine concentration (G/N = 0.7) and reducing particle surface area increased the yield of metallic Cu. The effects of varying reaction parameters such as catalyst activity, catalyst dose, and H₂O₂ concentration on nonylphenol-9-polyethoxylate (NP9EO) degradation were assessed. With a copper‐based catalyst in a heterogeneous system, the NP9EO and total organic carbon removal efficiencies were 83.1% and 70.6%, respectively, under optimum operating conditions (pH, 6.0; catalyst dose, 0.3 g/L; H₂O₂ concentration, 0.05 mM). The results suggested that removal efficiency increased with an increase in H₂O₂ concentration but decreased when the H₂O₂ concentration exceeded 0.0.5 mM. Furthermore, the trend of photocatalytic activity was as follows: G/N = 0.5 > G/N = 0.7 > G/N = 0.3. The G/N = 0.5 catalysts showed the highest photocatalytic activity and resulted in 94.6% NP9EO degradation in 600 min.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of major health challenge in Nigeria. Micronutrients deficiencies often associated with the disorder may cause inflammation and abnormal metabolisms in the body. The copper-to-zinc ratio is a more important assessment than the concentrations of either of the metals in clinical practice. This study seeks to evaluate serum levels of c-reactive protein (CRP), copper, zinc and copper-to-zinc ratio and to correlate copper-to-zinc ratio with CRP in adult subjects with SCD. Serum copper, zinc, CRP and plasma fibrinogen were assayed in 100 confirmed SCD patients in steady clinical state and 100 age and sex matched subjects with normal haemoglobin. Serum copper and zinc were assayed by colorimetric method using reagents supplied by Centronic, Germany while CRP and fibrinogen were assayed using reagents supplied by Sigma (St. Louis, MO, USA) and Anogen (Ontario, Canada), respectively. The copper to zinc ratio was calculated from serum levels of copper and zinc. The measured parameters were compared between the groups using Students t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient was used to relate CRP with the other parameters. Serum copper, CRP, fibrinogen and copper-to-zinc ratio were significantly higher (p < 0.001) while zinc level was lower in SCD patients than controls. Serum CRP concentration correlated with copper (r = 0.10; p < 0.02), zinc (r = −0.199; p < 0.05) and Copper-to-zinc ratio (r = 0.312; p < 0.002) but the correlation between CRP and fibrinogen was not significant. Inflammatory condition may modulate copper and zinc homeostasis and copper-to-zinc ratio may be used as marker of nutritional deficiency and inflammation in SCD patients.

The potential agricultural use of metal nanoparticles (NPs) for slow-release micronutrient fertilizers is beginning to be investigated by both industry and regulatory agencies. However, the impact of such NPs on soil biogeochemical cycles is not clearly understood. In this study, impacts of a commercially-available copper NPs on the soil nitrification kinetics was investigated via batch experiments. The X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy analysis showed that the NPs readily oxidized to Cu(II) and strongly retained in soils with minimum dissolution (<1% of total mass). The Cu2+ (aq) at 1mg/L showed the beneficial effect on the nitrification, an increase in the rate of nitrification kinetics (Vmax). However Vmax was negatively impacted by ionic Cu at 10-100mg/L and CuNP at 1-100 mg/L. The trace metal toxicity of soil nitrifiers seems to be critical in the soil nitrification processes. Among CuNPs, the suppressed nitrification kinetics was concentration dependent at >10mg/L. The reaction products of surface oxidation such as the release of ionic Cu seem to play an important role in suppressing the nitrification process. Considering the potential use of copper NPs as a slow-release micronutrient fertilizer, further studies are needed in heterogeneous soil systems.

Membrane distillation techniques appear as one of the most promise alternative to guarantee the availability of potable water in time of scarce of this essential resource. For membrane preparation, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is preferred due to the easier synthesis procedures with respect to other fluorine based polymers. In this work, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) at different weight percent (wt.%), embedded in PVDF membranes supported on non-woven polyester fabric (NWPET) were prepared by the phase-inversion method, and characterized by spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR, Raman) and electron microscopy techniques (SEM). The PVDF deposited onto the NWPET was highly composed by its polar -phase (F()= 53 %) which was determined from the ATR-FTIR spectrum. The F() value was kept constant, in the whole range of CuONPs studied (2-10 wt.%) as was determined from the ATR-FTIR spectrum. The absence of signals corresponding to CuONPs in the ATR-FTIR spectra and the appearance of peaks at 297, 360 and 630 cm-1 in the Raman spectra of the membranes suggested that the CuONPs are preferably located in the inner of the membrane but not on its surface. The membrane morphologies were characterized by SEM. From the obtained SEM micrographs, a decrease and increase in the amount of micropores and nanopores, respectively, near to the surface and intercalated in the finger-like layer were observed. As result of the CuONPs addition, the nanopores in the sponge-like layer decrease in size. The values of water contact angle (WCA) measurements showed a trend to decrease from 94° to 80° upon the addition of CuONPs (2-10 wt.%) indicating a diminish in the hydrophobicity degree of the membranes. Apparently, the increase in the amount of nanopores near to the surface decreased the membrane roughness becoming less hydrophobic.

Carbonous nanomaterials are promising additives for composite coatings for heat-dissipation materials because of their excellent thermal conductivity. Here, copper/carbonous nanomaterial composite coatings were prepared using nanodiamond (ND) as the carbonous nanomaterial. The copper/ND composite coatings were electrically deposited onto copper substrates from a continuously stirred copper sulfate coating bath containing NDs. NDs were dispersed by ultrasonic treatment, and the initial bath pH was adjusted by adding sodium hydroxide solution or sulfuric acid solution before electrodeposition. The effects of various coating conditions—the initial ND concentration, initial bath pH, stirring speed, electrical current density, and the amount of electricity—on the ND content of the coatings were investigated. Furthermore, the surface of the NDs was modified by hydrothermal treatment to improve ND incorporation. A higher initial ND concentration and a higher stirring speed increased the ND content of the coatings, whereas a higher initial bath pH and a greater amount of electricity decreased it. The electrical current density showed a minimum ND content at approximately 5 A/dm². Hydrothermal treatment, which introduced carboxyl groups onto the ND surface, improved the ND content of the coatings. A copper/ND composite coating with a maximum of 3.85 mass% ND was obtained.

Copper demand for a country's copper industry has a greater pull effect. China's copper consumption in 2015 has accounted for 50% of the world. The scientific forecast of China's copper demands trend is also an important basis for analyzing its future environmental impact. This paper assumes that China's economy will be developing high, medium and low scenarios, and forecasts economic and social indicators such as total GDP, population and per capita GDP in China from 2016 to 2030. Then, predicted the demand of copper resources in China from 2016 to 2030 by the combination of system dynamics model, vector autoregressive moving average model and inverted U-type empirical model. The results show that: (1) in 2020, 2025 and 2030, China's refined copper demand will be 13 Mt, 15 Mt and 15.5 Mt. (2) China's copper demand growth slowed down significantly from 2016-2030. (3) 2025-2030, China's copper resource demand is stable, into the platform of demand growth, the highest peak value in 2027 will be 15.5 Mt. (4) 2030 years later, China's copper resource demand will enter a slow decline.

Protein-drug interactions are crucial for understanding drug delivery and cell functions. Jacalin is a suitable molecule for such targeting, as it specifically recognizes the tu-mor-associated Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen that is expressed on the glycosylated proteins in cancer cells. The present paper describes the interaction of curcumin and jacalin, a possible carrier molecule for the delivery of antitumor drugs due to its ability to recognize tumor cells. Our results have shown that both steady state fluorescence and fluorescent label-ling of jacalin are two reliable methods to determine jacalin-curcumin interactions. The affinity of jacalin for curcumin is consistently within the micromolar range (using flu-orescence and microscale thermophoresis) showing high-affinity binding of the com-plex. In vitro experiments on the triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells indi-cated inhibition of cell growth after treating with the jacalin-curcumin complex for 48 h. The cell survival fraction was significantly reduced to 50% after combined treatment. In this paper, we report for the first time about the jacalin-curcumin interaction. We quantified this unique biomolecular interaction and gathered additional information on the binding event. We observed that the jacalin-curcumin complex inhibits the proliferation of the triple negative breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells.

Curcumin, a major constituent of turmeric, has beneficial effects against several diseases. In cystic fibrosis (CF), this compound potentiates the activity of a number of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutants. Despite holding promise in the treatment of CF, the curcumin binding site in CFTR and the molecular mechanism of activation of this channel are still unknown. The results of the study, based on docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, allow to propose that curcumin binds the closed ATP-free CFTR near the NBD1/ ICl1/ICl4 interface. The bound ligand, once approached by NBD2 during transient channel opening, lays at a multiple interdomain cross point. Thereafter, curcumin can bridge NBD1 and NBD2, and also ICL1/ICL4 and ICL2/ICL3 finally tightening the same interdomain interactions that normally uphold the active conformation in the wild type ATP-bound CFTR. The proposed binding site is compatible with biochemical observations made in previous CFTR-curcumin interaction studies. These findings provide the framework for the design of novel drugs that activate CFTR mutants characterized by defects in ATP binding and/or NBD dimerization, or even lacking NBD2.

Many biological functions of curcumin have been reported. As certain bioactivities of curcumin are eliminated by antioxidants, reactive oxygen species generated by curcumin have been suggested as a relevant mechanism. In the present study, effects of different types of antioxidants on stability and bioactivities of curcumin were analyzed. High concentrations (>4mM) of the thiol antioxidants including N-acetylcysteine (NAC), glutathione (GSH) and β-mercaptoethanol accelerated decomposition of curcumin and other curcuminoids; Submillimolar levels (<0.5 mM) of GSH and NAC rather improved their stability. Ascorbic acid or superoxide dismutase also stabilized curcumin regardless of their concentration. Cellular levels and bioactivities of curcumin including cytotoxicity and induction of heme oxygenase-1 were significantly reduced in the presence of 8 mM of GSH and NAC. The effects were enhanced in the presence of submillilmolar GSH and NAC, or non-thiol antioxidants. The present results indicate that antioxidants with reduced thiol group could directly interact with α, β-unsaturated carbonyl moiety of curcuminoids and modulate their stability and bioactivity.

The design of multifunctional microcarriers has attracted significant attention because they combine various functions within a single system. In this study, we developed a set of multi-layered hydrogel microcarriers, which were first loaded with chemotherapeutic curcumin (CUR), then using the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique, coated through a polyelectrolyte shell consisting of chitosan (CHIT) or poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH). As an outer layer with antimicrobial function, newly synthesised alkylene quaternary ammonium salt functionalised polyelectrolytes (A-QAS-PEs) were applied. For this purpose, poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) was decorated with dif-ferent hydrophobic side chains (n-hexane and n-dodecane side entities) and different degrees of substitution (m) of quaternary ammonium groups (abbreviated as PAA-C(O)O-(CH2)n-N+(CH3)3(m); n=6,12; m=8-14%). The grafting approach of PAA with the al-kylene quaternary ammonium salt moiety was performed under mild reaction conditions using Steglich esterification followed by quaternisation. The structure of antimicrobial decorated PAA was confirmed by 1H NMR and FTIR, and the mean diameter of all multifunctional microparticles was characterised by SEM. The viscoelastic properties of the functional layers were studied using QCM-D. The release of CUR from the microcarriers was described using a hybrid model, i.e., a combination of first-order kinetics and the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. The antimicrobial activity of functionalised PAA and multilayered CUR-loaded hydrogel microcarriers with quaternary am-monium function was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia marcescens by the agar diffusion assay method. Only a limited inhibition zone of PAA was observed, but in the case of both antimicrobial decorated PAA and the corresponding multilayered nanocarriers, the inhibi-tory activity increase was achieved against both strains of bacteria.

A series of novel asymmetrical mono-carbonyl analogs of curcumin (AMACs) were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxic activity using the brine shrimp lethality test (BSLT) and the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay against Vero, HeLa, and MCF7 cell lines. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR), ¹H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ¹³C-NMR, and mass spectral data. The results of the cytotoxicity evaluation showed that the synthesized compounds exhibited moderate to very high toxic activity in BSLT, requiring a concentration of 13.06–714.49 µg/mL to kill half the population. Most of the compound exhibited cytotoxic activity against HeLa cell lines, comparable to the activity of cisplatin with a concentration of the synthesized compounds required to inhibit 50% of the growth of the cell lines (IC₅₀) value of 40.65–95.55 µM, and most of the compounds tested against MCF7 cell lines exhibited moderate to very high cytotoxic activity (IC₅₀ value 7.86–35.88 µM). However, the selectivity index of the compounds was low, less than 1–1.96. Among the synthesized compounds, compound 1b showed the highest cytotoxicity and selectivity against MCF7 cell lines. Compound 1b could be considered for further development to obtain more active and selective chemotherapeutic agents against breast cancer.

With continuous increase in integration of the semiconductor devices, the requirements on size accuracy and surface quality of the etched lead frame are higher. The etchant is a key factor on etching process and etched surface quality, while effects of the difference in etchants on microscopic etched surface morphology of the Cu alloy have not been directly studied. In this study, the aqua regia, acidic FeCl3 and CuCl2 solutions were used as etchants, and the CuCrSn alloy specimens with different microstructure were etched and characterized. The results show that the etching rate in aqua regia is high, and the grain orientation, grain boundary (GB) and dislocation have significant influence on the local etching rate. The preferential etching of some atomic planes forms steps between grains with different orientations, and the preferential etching around the GB and dislocation group forms grooves, resulting in high surface roughness. For etching of the FeCl3 and CuCl2 etchants, the steps and grooves become blurred, and almost invisible on the surface etched by the CuCl2 etchant, thus the surface roughness is much lower. The CuCrSn alloy surface etched by the aqua regia is clean, with little Cr-rich particles, while high density Cr-rich particles are remained on the surfaces etched with the FeCl3 and CuCl2 etchants. For the same kind of etchant, the ion concentration can affect the etching mechanism and etching surface morphology.

In order to study the feasibility of copper-nickel smelting slag（CNSS） and palygorskite for large-scale consumption and utilization in the field of mine filling, gellable composite materials were prepared from copper-nickel smelting slag ,cement and palygorskite. The effects of palygorskite addition and curing time on the mechanical properties and microstructure of copper-nickel smelting slag-based cementitious materials were studied in detail. The results showed that the addition of palygorskite had a positive effect on the curing of the cemented filler of the non-ferrous smelting slag by promoting the early hydration reaction. palygorskite also affected the mechanical properties of the cementitious materials with different maintenance times and the ability to cure heavy metals. The strength of gellable composite materials reaches 23.05MPa when 1% palygorskite, 50% of copper-nickel smelting slag and 48% cement were used, which meet the standards requirements of filling materials for mine goaf. The addition of 1% palygorskite can improve the ability of cementitious materials to solidify heavy metals to realize the economic utilization of solid waste in mining areas.

Purpose: The aim of the study is an approach to a nanocomposite with copper nanoparticles, constituting a bacteriostatic surface for maintaining the human lung cells' function. Methods: The polyelectrolyte layer coating with copper nanoparticles incorporated was designed. As a bacteriostatic factor, copper nanoparticles were applied as a colloidal solution of copper nanoparticles (ColloidCuNPs) and solution of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs). The influence of polyelectrolytes on selected Gram(+) and Gram(-) strains was examined. The function of the human adenocarcinoma A549 cell line of epithelial human lung cells cultured in the presence of nanocomposite layer coatings was analyzed, as well as their morphology using flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the material of layer coating was assessed using AFM and SEM-EDX characterization. Results: It was observed that polyelectrolytes polyethylenimine and poly-L-lysine do not induce proliferation of E.coli strain. On the other hand, it induces the proliferation of S. aureus strain. Due to CuNPs effectiveness against E.coli strain, CuNPs were selected for further research. The designed coatings at proper NPs share sustained the function of human lung cells cultured within 10 days of culture. The AFM and EDX characterization confirmed copper presence in the layer coating nanomaterial. The presence of CuNPs in polyethyleneimine-based nanocomposite deepens the bacteriostatic effect on E. coli compared with PEI alone. Meanwhile, incorporating CuNPs in PLL at share allowed A549 cell maintenance, did not exert a bacteriostatic influence on the examined strain.Conclusion: The platform based on polyelectrolytes incorporated with copper nanoparticles ensuring the growth and morphology of the human lung epithelial cells can be considered an element of the system components for medical devices for maintaining the human lung cells' function.

Background: Advances in additive manufacturing and the development of antimicrobial biopolymers facilitate the production of critical medical devices with strong and safe biocidal properties. The purpose of this study was to assess the antimicrobial efficacy, safety, and longevity of a polylactic acid-based biopolymer supplemented with a copper-based composite additive. Methods: An antimicrobial polylactic acid-based biopolymer was tested against several inoculants including Staphylococcus Aureus, MRSA, E. coli, Listeria, HCoV-229E (a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate), and HIV-1. Material safety was evaluated according to international testing standards for in vitro cytotoxicity. Results: The main findings of the present investigation showed a strong and long-lasting biocidal effect of a polylactic acid-based biopolymer embedded with a copper-based composite additive against Staphylococcus Aureus, MRSA, E. coli, Listeria, HCoV-229E (a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate), and HIV-1. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity and safety assessment of the antimicrobial biopolymer was found to be “non-toxic” and safe for human skin contact. Conclusions: The present investigation showed that the antimicrobial biopolymer exhibits strong and long-lasting biocidal properties against an array of viral and bacterial inoculants.

A new copper(I) complex, [Cu2(L)2dppm](PF6)2 (1) [L = 3-(2-Pyridyl)-5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazine and dppm: Bis(diphenylphosphino)methane] was prepared and characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, 31P-NMR spectroscopy, elemental and thermogravimetric analysis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction technique. Complex 1 is a dinuclear compound, showing that L and dppm act as tridentate and bidentate chelating ligands, respectively. The two Cu(I) atoms exhibit a distorted tetrahedral coordination sphere embedded in N3P environments. The supramolecular interactions in the solid-state structure are characterized by C−H···N, C−H···F, C-H···π and π···π intermolecular interactions that were analyzed by inspection of the Hirshfeld surface and fingerprint plots. Additionally, the complex was studied experimentally in solution by UV–Vis spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry; also, theoretical studies with Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) were performed. Moreover, the optical and electrochemical properties have been studied, focusing on the band gap. Compound 1 has been used as a co-sensitizer in a dye-sensitized solar cell, showing good activity.

The constant increase in current density in electrical wires leads to increasingly significant heat losses due to Joule effect. Therefore, reducing the electrical resistivity of copper wires becomes necessary. To achieve this goal, the development of a composite material incorporating a more conductive reinforcement, the graphene, is a promising way. The design of a copper/graphene composite using a powder metallurgy-based method is presented. This synthesis method allows for interface control through the growth of CuO(Cu) nanoparticles tightly bonded to the reinforcement. It also involves the dispersion of graphene through ultrasonic treatment and its alignment within the matrix using a uniaxial pressing densification method. The increase in the hardness (+12 HV) demonstrates the effective dispersion and separation of graphene layers. The impact on the electrical properties of dendritic copper (ρe = 2.30 µΩ.cm) remains limited, with a decrease in electrical resistance of approximately 1.4%. However, for copper with higher electrical resistivity, flake copper (at 2.71 µΩ.cm) and brass at (7.66 µΩ.cm), reductions of 2.7% and 10% have been achieved, respectively. With the improvement of graphene quality, there is more room to improve the electrical properties. This work paves the way for the development of composites with improved electrical resistivity.

Copper ferrite attracts a lot of interest from researchers as a material with unique magnetic, optical, catalytic and structural properties. In particular, the magnetic properties of this material are structurally sensitive and can be tuned by changing the distribution of Cu and Fe cations in octahedral and tetrahedral positions by controlling synthesis parameters. In this study, we propose a new simple and convenient method for the synthesis of copper ferrite nanoparticles using a strongly basic anion exchange resin in OH form. The effect and possible mechanism of polysaccharides addition on the elemental composition, yield and particle size of CuFe2O4 is investigated and discussed. It is shown that anion exchange resin precipitation leads to a mixture of unstable at standard temperature cubic (c-CuFe2O4) and stable tetragonal (t-CuFe2O4) phases. The effect of the reaction conditions on the c-CuFe2O4 stability is studied by temperature-dependent XRD measurements and discussed in terms of the cations distribution, Jahn−Teller distortion and Cu2+ and oxygen vacancies in the copper ferrite lattice. The obtained differences in the values of saturation magnetization and the coercive force of prepared samples are explained with a reference to variations in the particle sizes and the structural characteristics of copper ferrite.

In this work Cu2O nanoparticles (NPs) were created in-situ on graphene functionalized with Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase (G@TLL) where site-oriented supported TLL acted as template and binder in the presence of copper salt by tailorable synthesis under mild conditions, producing a heterogeneous catalyst. Cu2O NPs was confirmed by XRD and XPS. The TEM microscopy showed that the nanoparticles were homogeneously distributed over the G@TLL surface with sizes of 53 nm and 165nm. This G@TLL-Cu2O hybrid was successfully used in the degradation of toxic organic compounds such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and Rhodamine B (RhB). In the case of TCE, the hybrid presented a high catalytic capacity, degrading 60 ppm of product in 60 min in aqueous solution and room temperature without the formation of other toxic subproducts. In addition, a TOF value of 7.5 times higher than the unsupported counterpart (TLL-Cu2O) was obtained, demonstrating the improved catalytic efficiency of the system in the solid-phase. The hybrid also presented an excellent catalytic performance for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) obtaining a complete degradation (48ppm) in 50 min in in aqueous solution and room temperature and with the presence of a green oxidant as H2O2.

The interfacial mechanics and electrical properties of the SiC reinforced copper matrix composites were studied via the first principles method. The work of adhesion (Wad) and the interfacial energies were calculated to evaluate the stabilities of the SiC/Cu interfacial models. The carbon terminated (CT)-SiC/Cu interfaces were predicted more stable than those of the silicon terminated (ST)-SiC/Cu from the results of the Wad and interfacial energies. The interfacial electron properties of SiC/Cu were studied via the charge density distribution, charge density difference, electron localized functions and partial density of the state. The covalent C-Cu bonds were formed based on the results of the electron properties, which further explained the fact that the interfaces of the CT-SiC/Cu are stable than those of the ST-SiC/Cu. The interfacial mechanics of the SiC/Cu were investigated via the interfacial fracture toughness and ultimate tensile stress, and the results indicate that both CT- and ST-SiC/Cu interfaces are hard to fracture. The ultimate tensile stress of the CT-SiC/Cu is nearly 23GPa, which is smaller than those of the ST-SiC/Cu of 25 GPa. The strains corresponding to their ultimate tensile stresses of the CT- and ST-SiC/Cu are about 0.28 and 0.26, respectively. The higher strains of CT-SiC/Cu indicate their stronger plastic properties on the interfaces of the composites.

. This article presents, for the first time, the kinetics and the general conversion features of a 3-component system (A/B/N), based on proposed mechanism of Mau et al, for both free radical polymerization (FRP) of acrylates and the free radical promoted cationic polymerization (CP) of epoxides using various new copper complex (G2) as the initiator. Higher FRP and CP conversion can be achieved by co-additive of [B] and N, via the dual function of (i) regeneration [A], and (ii) generation of extra radicals. The FRP and CP conversion efficacy (CE) are proportional to the nonlinear power of bI[A][B], where b and I are the effective absorption coefficient and the light intensity, respectively. In the interpenetrated polymer network (IPN) capable of initiating both FRP and CP in a blend of TMPTA and EPOX, (as the monomer for FRP and CP, respectively), the synergic effects due to CP include:: (i) CP can increase viscosity limiting the diffusional oxygen replenishment, such that oxygen inhibition effects are reduced; (ii) the cationic monomer also acts as a diluting agent for the IPN network , and (iii) the exothermic property of the CP. Many new findings are explored via our analytical formuals include: (i) the CE of FRP is about twice of the CE of CP, due to the extra radicals involved in FRP; (ii) the catalytic cycle enhancing the efficacy is mainly due to the regenaration of the initiator, and (iii) the nonlinear dependence of light intensity of the CE (in both FRP and CP). For the first time, the catalytic cycle, synergic effects, and the oxygen inhibition are theoretically confirmed to support the experimental hypothesis. The measured results of Mau et al are well analyzed and matching the predicted features of our modeling. .

The redox chemistry of copper(II) is strongly modulated by the coordination to amyloid-β peptides and by the stability of the resulting complexes. Amino terminal copper and nickel binding motifs (ATCUN) identified in truncated Aβ sequences starting with Phe4 show very high affinity for copper(II) ions. Herein, we study the oxidase activity of [Cu-Aβ4-x] and [Cu-Aβ1-x] complexes toward dopamine and other catechols. The results show that the CuII-ATCUN site is not redox-inert, the reduction of the metal is induced by coordination of catechol to the metal and occurs through an inner sphere reaction. The generation of a ternary [CuII-Aβ-catechol] species determines the efficiency of the oxidation, although the reaction rate is ruled by re-oxidation of the CuI complex. In addition to the N-terminal coordination site, the two vicinal histidines, His13 and His14, provide a second Cu-binding motif. Catechol oxidation studies together with structural insight from the mixed dinuclear complexes Ni/Cu-Aβ4-x reveal that the His-tandem is able to bind CuII ions independently of the ATCUN site, but the N-terminal metal complexation reduces the conformational mobility of the peptide chain, preventing the binding and oxidative reactivity toward catechol of CuII bound to the secondary site.

The color of a thin copper oxide layer formed on a copper plate was transformed from reddish-brown into blue-purple by irradiation with 5 keV Ar+ ions to a fluence as low as 1 1015 Ar+ cm–2. In the unirradiated copper oxide layer, the copper valence state of Cu2+ as well as Cu+ and/or Cu0 was included as indicated by the presence of a shake-up satellite line in a photoemission spectrum. While for the irradiated one, the satellite line decreased in intensity, indicating that irradiation resulted in the reduction from Cu2+ to Cu+ and/or Cu0. Furthermore, nuclear reaction analysis using a 16O(d, p)17O reaction with 0.85 MeV deuterons revealed a significant loss of oxygen (51015 O atoms cm–2) in the irradiated layer. Thus, the chromatic change observed in the present work originated in the irradiation-induced reduction of a copper oxide.

With the aim of profitable conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) in an efficient, economical and sustainable manner, we developed a CuBr/ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate) catalytic system which could efficiently catalyze the three-component reactions of propargylic alcohols, 2-aminoethanols, and CO2 to produce 2-oxazolidinones and α-hydroxy ketones. Remarkably, this catalytic system employed lower metal loading (0.0125-0.5 mol%) but exhibited the highest turnover number (2960) ever reported, demonstrating its excellent activity and sustainability. Moreover, our catalytic system could efficiently work under 1 atm of CO2 pressure and recycle among the metal-catalyzed systems.

The synthesis of metal nanoparticles using plant extracts is a very promising method in green synthesis. The medicinal value of Moringa oleifera leaves and the anti-microbial activity of metallic copper were combined in the present study to synthesize copper nanoparticles having a desirable added-value inorganic material. The use of a hydroalcoholic extract of M. oleifera leaves for the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles is an attractive method as it leads to the production of harmless chemicals and reduces waste. The total phenolic content in the M. oleifera leaves extract was 23.0 ± 0.3 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of dried M. oleifera leaves powder. The M. oleifera leaves extract was treated with a copper sulphate solution. A color change from brown to black indicates the formation of copper nanoparticles. Characterization of the synthesized copper nanoparticles was performed using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, FT-IR spectrometer, TEM, SEM, and XRD. The synthesized copper nanoparticles have an amorphous nature and particle size of 35.8-49.2 nm. We demonstrate that the M. oleifera leaves extract and the synthesized copper nanoparticles display considerable antioxidant activity. Moreover, the M. oleifera leaves extract and the synthesized copper nanoparticles exert potent anti-bacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis (MIC values for the extract: 500, 250, 250, and 250 μg/mL; MIC values for the cooper nanoparticles: 500, 500, 500, and 250 μg/mL, respectively). Similarly, the M. oleifera leaves extract and the synthesized copper nanoparticles exert relatively more potent anti-fungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Candida albicans, and Candida glabrata (MIC values for the extract: 62.5, 62.5, 125, and 250 μg/mL; MIC values for the cooper nanoparticles: 125, 125, 62.5, and 31.2 μg/mL, respectively). Our study reveals that the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles using a hydroalcoholic extract of M. oleifera leaves was successful. In addition, the synthesized copper nanoparticles can be potentially employed in the treatment of various microbial infections due to their potent antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal activities.

In order to design effective protective coatings against corrosion, the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as compound and composite with silver nanoparticles (nAg/PVA) were electrodeposited on copper surface employing electrochemical techniques such as linear potentiometry and cyclic voltammetry. A new paradigm was used to distinguish the features of coatings, i.e., a Deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was implemented to automatically and hierarchically extract the discriminative characteristics from the information given by optical microscopy images. The main arguments that invoke a CNN implementation in the surface science of materials are the following: artificial intelligence techniques can be successfully applied to learn differences between surface coatings; based on their popularity for image processing, CNN can model images related to the problem of coatings; deep learning is able to extract the features that are distinguishable between material surfaces. To provide an overview of the copper surface, CNN was applied on microscope slides (CNN@microscopy) and inherently learnt distinctive characteristics for each class of surface morphology. The material surface morphology controlled by CNN without the interference of the human factor was successfully conducted, in our study, to extract the similarities/differences between unprotected and protected surfaces to establish the PVA and nAg/PVA performance to retard the copper corrosion.

Direct-to-blister copper flash smelting slag contains up to 14% of copper and 2-4% of lead. Considering this fact, this material is subjected to the high-temperature reduction process. After this, converting process is performed on the Cu-Pb-Fe alloy being the product of decopperization process in electric furnace. An alternative to the presently used processing of flash smelting slag would be its hydrometallurgical treatment and selective recovery of Pb and Cu. This paper presents the results of laboratory tests on flash smelting slag leaching with citric acid solutions. The experiments performed allowed to determine the process parameters at which the Pb concentration in the post-leaching sediment reached the value of 0.41-0.6% while the Pb content in flash smelting slag was 3.05%. Analogous values for copper were 11.5-11.8% (after leaching) and 12.44% (before). Material after leaching in citric acid solutions can be processed, in the second step, using sulfuric acid solutions, and it could lead to the recovery of almost all copper contained in it.

The surface planarity and asperity removal behaviors of atomic scale under the ultrathin water environment was studied for the nanoscale process by molecular dynamics simulation. The monolayer atomic removal was achieved under the noncontact and monoatomic layer contact conditions with different water film thickness, and the newly formed surface is relatively smooth and no deformed layer and plastic defects exist. The nanoscale processing is governed by the interatomic adhering action during which the water film transmits the loading forces to Cu surface and thereby result in the migration and removal of surface atoms. With scratching depth ≥ 0.5 nm, the abrasive particle squeezed out the water film from scratching region and scratched Cu surface directly, leading to the surface quality deterioration mainly governed by the plowing action. This study brings the goals of “0 nm planarity, 0 residual defects and 0 polishing pressure” closer to us in the nanoscale process for the development of ultra-precision manufacture technology.

Background: Although rarely indicated, antibiotics are commonly used for acute diarrhoea in China. We conducted a randomized, double blind exploratory clinical trial of loperamide, berberine and turmeric for treatment of acute diarrhoea. Methods: Adults with acute uncomplicated diarrhoea were randomized to 4 groups: (A) loperamide; (B) loperamide and berberine; (C) loperamide and turmeric; (D) loperamide, berberine and turmeric. All participants were given rescue ciprofloxacin for use after 48 hours if symptoms worsened or were unimproved. Primary endpoints were feasibility and ciprofloxacin use during the 2 week follow-up period. Semi-structured interviews were conducted following recruitment. Results: Only 21.5% (278/1295) of patients screened were deemed eligible, and 49% (136/278) of these consented and entered into the final analysis. Most participants had mild symptoms, because most patients with moderate or severe symptoms wanted to be given antibiotics. Follow-up was good (94% at 2 weeks). Only two participants used rescue antibiotics compared to 65% of acute diarrhoea patients in the hospital during the recruitment period. The median symptom duration was: 14 hours in group B (IQR 10-22), 16 hours in group D (IQR 10-22), 18 hours in group A (IQR 10-33), 20 hours in group C (IQR 16-54). Re-consultation rates were low. There were no serious treatment-related adverse events. Most interviewed participants said the treatment was effective. Conclusion: Although recruitment was challenging because of widespread expectations for antibiotics, patients with mild diarrhoea accepted to try an alternative. This therapy requires further evaluation in a fully powered, randomised controlled trial among a broader sample.

Catalytic studies for hydrogen production via steam reforming of ethanol (SRE) are essential for process optimization. Likewise, selecting the ideal support for the active phase can be critical to achieve high conversion rates during the catalytic steam reforming. In this work, copper-based catalysts were synthesized using two different supports, NaY zeolite and Nb2O5/Al2O3 mixed oxides. The materials were prepared using wet impregnation and characterized for their physicochemical properties using different analytical techniques. Differences in catalyst morphologies were readily attributed to the characteristics of the support. The Cu/NaY catalyst showed better textural properties than Cu/Nb2O5/Al2O3, resulting in a homogeneous metal dispersion over the support surface. Both catalytic systems were active in SRE, but Cu/NaY resulted in higher ethanol conversions compared to Cu/Nb2O5/Al2O3. Hence, the performance of copper-based catalysts was influenced significantly by the textural properties of the support.

To protect skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV), zinc oxide (ZnO) with tannin from gallnuts was treated on cotton and polyester fabrics in this study. Before the treatments, the fabrics were dyed with shikonin and xanthophyll from Gromwell and Cape Jasmine. First, this study found that xanthophyll was more effective at preventing light fade or discoloration than shikonin. Despite the highest K/S, the untreated cotton in violet faded the most intensely when exposed to UV. The color variation of untreated polyester was narrow, with little change in L, a*, and K/S. Due to the non-photochemical xanthophyll, the yellow-dyed samples treated with ZnO/polyphenol did not vary yellowness (b*: 28.838) significantly, while the violet fabrics displayed a significant decrease in K/S and an increase in b*. The combination of ZnO and polyphenol treatment improved UV absorption at 350 to 250 nm. Cu-mordanting after ZnO/polyphenols treatment caused the violet cotton to turn reddish from blueish (negative to positive b*), with a hue change of 316° to 59° and the highest ΔE (25.90±4.34) after UV exposure. In this study, the combination of ZnO/polyphenol with Cu-mordants contributed the xanthophyll-dyed polyester to achieve a minimum ΔE and keep chroma and hue after UV exposure.

CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn1 (OF 2238) is a new lead-free copper alloy for plain bearing applications that was first officially presented in a scientific journal in 2020. Soon after its invention, the use of the alloy for connecting rod bushings in heavy duty internal combustion engines was promoted and validated with customers. The aim of this article is to describe the material properties of the new alloy in more detail than previously and explain how the advantageous properties of CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn1 are generated. At the beginning of the article, the general development trends in the field of copper alloys for sliding applications are presented. This is followed by a presentation of the latest research results about CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn, before concluding with a brief summary and future outlook, emphasizing on the fact that recent trends in copper-based sliding applications show great additional potential for further material developments.

In this study, multilayer composite nanofiber membranes of sodium alginate (SA) /polyethyleneimine (PEI)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was fabricated via electrospinning technique to enhance the adsorption of Cu2+ from wastewater. The preparation and adsorption mechanisms of the SA/PEI/PVA nanofiber membranes were analyzed by utilizing analytical techniques such as SEM, FTIR, EDS, UV-vis, XRD, and TG. The obtained nanofiber membrane characterized by small diameter, high uniformity, and extensive surface area, demonstrate significant potential for heavy metal ion filtration. Optimal spinning parameters were identified, including a voltage of 19.5 KV, a distance of 8 cm, and specific mass ratios (SA: PEI: PVA, 1:2:6) and injection speeds (8 μL/min) and. The resulting nanofibers with an average diameter of 112.5 nm exhibited excellent morphology and high efficiency, retaining over 85% adsorption capacity for Cu2+ in initial tests and maintaining above 80% efficacy through four successive filtration cycles.

Drosophila melanogaster serves as a important research model both for genetic investigations and for the study of metal toxicity, facilitating the elucidation of physiological mechanisms comparable to those of human organisms. In our research, we evaluated the toxicity effect resulting from exposure to various concentrations of lead and copper on the prolificity rates throughout the life cycle (egg-adult) of four genotypes of Drosophila melanogaster: wild-type (control), white, brown, and white-vestigial. During our study, the prolificity rates were examined across three repetitions under the impact of exposure to concentrations of 0.50, 1.00, 2.00, and 4.00 mM of copper (CuSO₄) and lead (Pb(C₂H₃O₂₎₂). Prolificity rates throughout the life cycle exhibited variations as a direct consequence of genetic factors, the concentration of exposure, and the specific type of metal, either copper or lead. The mutant white-vestigial genotype revealed an IC₅₀ concentration for prolificity inhibition at lower doses of 2.00 mM for copper and 4.00 mM for lead, in contrast to the control genotype (wild-type), which exhibited an inhibition concentration rate >IC₅₀ of 4.00 mM only in the case of copper. Our results concluded that the (i) dose influences the prolificity rate in a directly proportional manner, (ii) comparative analyses between copper and lead revealed that copper displayed toxicity across all genotypes within the concentration range of 0.50 mM to 2.00 mM. In contrast, lead exhibited toxicity within the concentration range of 1.00 mM to 4.00 mM, highlighting a (iii) more acute toxicity characteristic in the case of copper. Thus, the results of this research reflect the importance of using Drosophila melanogaster as a genetic model in the comparative study of the interaction between genetic factors and the toxicity of metals, offering significant insights into monitoring their impact and defining the maximum permissible doses on organisms.

Density functional theory (DFT) and coupled cluster theory (CCSD(T)) calculations are performed to investigate the geometric, electronic structures and chemical bonding of a series of Cu-doped zinc oxide clusters, CunZn3O3 (n = 1-4). The structural evolution of CunZn3O3 (n = 1-4) clusters are elaborated in our work. The planar seven-membered ring of CuZn3O3 cluster plays an important role in the structural evolution, that is, the Cu atom, Cu dimer (Cu2) and Cu trimer (Cu3) anchor on the CuZn3O3 cluster. The aggregate behavior of Cu atoms on Zn3O3 may offer insight into the study of Cu/ZnO-based catalysts. Additionally, it is found that the CunZn3O3 clusters become more stable as the Cu content (n) increases. Bader charge analysis points out that as the Cu atoms doping, the reducibility of Cu aggregation (Cun-1) on the CuZn3O3 cluster increases. Combined with the d-band centers and the surface electrostatic potential (ESP), the reactivity and the possible reaction sites of CunZn3O3 (n = 1-4) clusters are also illustrated.

Green synthesis using plant extracts has emerged as an eco-friendly, clean, and viable strategy alternative to chemical and physical approaches. The leaf, stem, and root extracts of Lannea discolor was utilized as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the synthesis of gold (AuNPs) and copper (CuNPs) nanoparticles. The formation of AuNPs and CuNPs confirmed by their color change, was characterised by UV–Vis Spectroscopy (UV- Vis), Scanning electron microscopy analysis and energy dispersive x-ray (SEM-EDX), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), coupled with minimum concentration inhibitory (MIC) antibacterial assays. AuNFs, NPs and CuNPs peaked at wavelengths in the ranges of 316, 544 and 564 nm respectively. TEM showed unexpected nanoflowers (30 – 97 nm) in the leaf extracts and spherical NPs (10 -33 nm; 9.3 – 37.5) from stem and root extracts, while spherical CuNPs (20 – 104 nm), were observed from all the extracts. EDX was able to confirm the presence of metal salts and FTIR revealed stable capping agents. AuNPs and NFs from L. discolor extracts showed appreciable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis, when compared to the plant extracts, while none was observed from the CuNPs. These AuNPs and CuNPs are particularly appealing in a variety of applications in the biomedical as well as conductivity manufacturing, due to their shapes and sizes and economical and environmentally friendly production.

Copper(I) sulfide (Cu2S) is a low-cost, earth-abundant, and non-toxic thermoelectric material for applications in the middle-high temperature range (&gt;650 K). Although 3D printing these materials can simplify their manufacturing, elevated temperatures observed during sintering impair their crystal structure and energy conversion efficiency. In this study, we demonstrated a novel post-processing methodology to revert the thermoelectric properties of the 3D printed Cu2-xS materials back to the unimpaired state via sulfur infusion. After printing and sintering, sulfur was infused into the specimens under vacuum to optimize their crystal structure and achieve high thermoelectric efficiency. Chemical analysis and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) tests showed that after the sulfur infusion process, the Cu/S ratio was reverted close to the stoichiometric level. 3D printed Cu2-xS showed p-type thermoelectric behavior with electrical conductivity peaking at 143 S-cm-1 at 750 K and Seebeck coefficient of 175 µV-K-1 at 627 K. Figure of merit (ZT) value of 1.0 at 780 K was achieved which is the highest value ever reported for a 3D printed Cu2-xS thermoelectrics at this temperature. Fabrication of environmentally friendly thermoelectric materials with extended dimensional freedom and conversion efficiency has the potential to impact the thermoelectric industry with new energy conversion applications and lowered manufacturing costs.

The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to bind to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor with much higher affinity compared to other coronaviruses. The binding interface between the ACE2 receptor plays a critical role in the entry mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus. There are specific amino acids involved in the interaction between S protein and ACE2 receptor. This specificity is critical for the virus to establish a systemic infection and cause COVID-19 disease. In the ACE2 receptor, the largest number of amino acids that play a crucial role in the mechanism of interaction and recognition with the S protein are located in the C-terminal part which represents the main binding region between ACE2 and S. This fragment is abundant in coordination residues such as aspartates, glutamates and histidine that could be targeted by metal ions. Zn²⁺ ion binds to the ACE2 receptor in its catalytic site and modulates its activity, but it could also contribute to the structural stability of the entire protein. The ability of the human ACE2 receptor to coordinate metal ions, such Zn²⁺, in the same region where it binds to the S protein could have a crucial impact in the mechanism of recognition and interaction of ACE2-S with consequences on their binding affinity that deserve to be investigated. To test this possibility, this study aims to characterize the coordination ability of Zn²⁺, and also Cu²⁺ for comparison, with selected peptide models of the ACE2 binding interface using spectroscopic and potentiometric techniques.

All living organisms require some metal ions for their energy production as well as metabolic and biosynthetic processes. Within cells, metal ions are involved in the formation of adducts interact with metabolites and macromolecules (proteins and nucleic acids). The proteins that require binding to one or more metal ions to be able to carry out their physiological function are called metalloproteins. About one third of all protein structures in the Protein Data Bank involve metalloproteins. Over the past few years there has been a tremendous progress in the number of computational tools and techniques making use of 3D structural information to support the investigation of metalloproteins. This trend has been boosted also by the successful applications of neural networks and deep learning approaches in molecular and structural biology at large. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the development and availability of resources dealing with metalloproteins from a structure-based perspective. We start by addressing tools for the prediction of metal-binding sites (MBSs) using structural information on apo-proteins. Then, we provide an overview of methods for and lessons learned from the structural comparison of MBSs in a fold-independent manner. We then move to describing databases of metalloprotein/MBS structures. Finally, we summarize recent DL applications enhancing the functional interpretation of metalloprotein structures.

This article presents, for the first time, the kinetics and the general conversion features of a 3-initiator system (A/B/N), based on proposed mechanism of Mokbel et al, for both free radical polymerization (FRP) of acrylates and the free radical promoted cationic polymerization (CP) of epoxides using copper complex as the initiator. Higher FRP and CP conversion can be achieved by co-initiators concentration [B] and [N], via the dual function of (i) regeneration [A], and (ii) generation of extra radicals S' and S. The FRP and CP conversion is proportional to, respectively, the nonlinear and linear power of bI[A][B], where b and I are the absorption coefficient and the light intensity, respectively. System in air has lower conversion than in laminate due to the oxygen inhibition effects. For thick samples (with thickness z), there is an optimal concentration [A*] which is inverse proportional (bzI), in contrast with very thin sample, in which the conversion is an increasing function of [A] and [B]. The unique feature of dark polymerization in CP conversion enables the polymerization to continue in living mode, in contrasts with that of the radical-mediated pathway in most conventional FRP. The measured results of Mokbel et al are well analyzed and matching the predicted features of our modeling.

The aim of the research was a comprehensive evaluation of concrete using the EIPI method. In the evaluation the compressive strength of concrete and its durability properties represented by sorptivity and air permeability were taken into account. Since copper slag waste with increased natural radioactivity was used in the assessed concrete, additional evaluation was carried out taking into account the influence of natural radioactivity within the performance index. Also the reference concrete, which was made without the use of copper slag waste, was evaluated for comparative purposes. In order to make the evaluation as comprehensive as possible, the concrete made with the use of three types of cement was subjected to the assessment: CEM I, CEM II and CEM III. The results show that in both approaches the best result was achieved by concrete with CEM III cement. If natural radioactivity is not taken into account in the evaluation, the best result is obtained by concrete made with copper slag waste, and if radioactivity is considered, the best result is obtained with concrete without addition of the waste. It follows from the above that although natural radioactivity has a significant impact on the EIPI evaluation result, the decisive factor is still the type of cement.

Angiogenin (ANG), an endogenous protein that plays a key role in cell growth and survival, has been scrutinised here as promising nanomedicine tool for the modulation of pro-/ anti-angiogenic processes in brain cancer therapy. Specifically, peptide fragments from the putative cell membrane binding domain (residues 60-68) of the protein were used in this study to obtain peptide-functionalised spherical gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of about 10 nm and 30 nm in optical and hydrodynamic size, respectively. Different hybrid biointerfaces were fabricated by peptide physical adsorption (Ang60-68) or chemisorption (the cysteine analogous Ang60-68Cys) at the metal nanoparticle surface, and the cellular assays were performed in the comparison with ANG-functionalised AuNPs. Cellular treatments were performed both in basal and in copper-supplemented cell culture medium, to scrutinise the synergic effect of the metal, which is another known angiogenic factor. Two brain cell lines were investigated in parallel, namely tumour glioblastoma (A172) and neuron-like differentiated neuroblastoma (d-SH-SY5Y). Results on cell viability/proliferation, cytoskeleton actin, angiogenin translocation and VEGF release pointed to the promising potentialities of the developed systems as anti-angiogenic tunable nanoplaftforms in cancer cells treatment.

Copper mine tailings are the residual products after the purification of precious copper from copper ores, and their storage can create numerous environmental problems. Many researchers have used copper mine tailings for preparation of geopolymer. This paper studies the enhancement of the cementitious activity of copper mine tailings in geopolymer system. First, copper mine tailings are activated through a mechanical grinding activation. Afterward, the mechanically activated copper mine tailings are further processed through thermal activation and alkaline roasting activating. The cementitious activity index of copper mine tailings is characterized through the degree of concentration of alkali leaching silicon and aluminum. It was observed that the Si and Al alkali leaching concentration of mechanical activated tailings was increased by 26.03% and 93.33%, respectively. The concentration of Si and Al was increased by 54.19% and 119.92%, respectively. For alkaline roasting activating, roasting time, temperature and (C/N ratio) were evaluated through the orthogonal test, and the best condition was activation for 120 min at 600℃ with C/N ratio is 5:1. In this study, the SEM, XRD and IR analysis show that mechanically activation, thermal activation and alkaline roasting activating can improve the cementitious activity index of copper mine tailings.

Curcumin, a nontoxic and cheap natural medicine, has high therapeutic efficacy for many diseases including diabetes and cancers. Unfortunately, its exceedingly low water-solubility and rapid degradation in the body severely limit its bioavailability. In this work, we prepare a series of biocompatible poly(vinyl anisole)@nonlinear poly(ethylene glycol) (PVAS@PEG) core-shell nanogels with different PEG gel shell thickness to provide high water solubility, good stability, and controllable sustained release of curcumin. The PVAS nanogel core is designed to attract and store curcumin molecules for high drug loading capacity and the hydrophilic nonlinear PEG gel shell is designed to offer water dispersibility and thermo-responsive drug release. The obtained nanogels are monodispersed in spherical shape with clear core-shell morphology. The size and shell thickness of the nanogels can be easily controlled by changing the core-shell precursor feeding ratios. The optimized PVAS@PEG nanogels display a high curcumin loading capacity of 38.0 wt%. The nanogels can stabilize the curcumin from degradation at pH =7.4 and release the curcumin in response to heat in the physiologically important temperature range. The nanogels can enter cells effectively and exhibit negligible cytotoxicity to both the B16F10 and HL-7702 cells at a concentration up to 2.3 mg/mL. Such designed PVAS@PEG nanogels have a great potential to be used for delicate drug delivery.

Although natural products are an important source of drugs and drug leads, identification and validation of their target proteins have proven difficult. Here, we report the development of a systematic strategy for target identification and validation employing drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) and mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) without modifying or labeling natural compounds. Through a validation step using curcumin, which targets aminopeptidase N (APN), we successfully standardized the systematic strategy. Using label-free voacangine, an antiangiogenic alkaloid molecule as the model natural compound, DARTS analysis revealed vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) as a target protein. Voacangine inhibits VEGFR2 kinase activity and its downstream signaling by binding to the kinase domain of VEGFR2, as was revealed by docking simulation. Through cell culture assays, voacangine was found to inhibit the growth of glioblastoma cells expressing high levels of VEGFR2. Specific localization of voacangine to tumor compartments in a glioblastoma xenograft mouse was revealed by MSI analysis. The overlap of histological images with the MSI signals for voacangine was intense in the tumor regions and showed colocalization of voacangine and VEGFR2 in the tumor tissues by immunofluorescence analysis of VEGFR2. The strategy employing DARTS and MSI to identify and validate the targets of a natural compound as demonstrated for voacangine in this study is expected to streamline the general approach of drug discovery and validation using other biomolecules including natural products.

Here we have chosen to highlight the main natural molecules extracted from camellia sinensis, andrographis paniculata and curcuma longa that may possess antioxidant activities of interest for skin protection. The molecules involved, in the antioxidant process are respectively catechins derivatives, in particular EGCG, andrographolide and its derivatives as well as various curcuminoids. These plants are generally used as beverages for camellia sinensis (tea tree), as dietary supplements or as spices. The molecules they contain are known for their diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antidiabetic and dermatological treatment. Their common antioxidant activities and therapeutic applications are widely documented, but their use in cosmetic is more recent. In this review, we will endeavor to compile the cosmetic uses of these natural molecules of interest, the various structural modulations reported, with the aim of improving their bioavailability as well as establishing their different mechanisms of action.

The integration of commodities into stock exchanges marked a pivotal moment in the analysis of price dynamics. Commodities, essential for both daily sustenance and industrial processes, encompass hard commodities like metals and energy, alongside soft commodities such as agricultural produce. This paper investigates the implications of commodity price volatility on commercial and financial landscapes, recognizing its profound impact on global economies. This study employs a meticulous methodology, delineated into four stages: identification, control, and final selection of academic articles, culminating in their tabulation. Methodologically, a literature review serves as the primary tool for data acquisition, with a focus on existing scientific knowledge to bridge gaps and propose avenues for further inquiry. Drawing from reliable sources, including Google Scholar and Science Direct, the research navigates through a wealth of scholarly discourse on commodity market dynamics. By analyzing trends in academic publications, particularly focusing on the interplay between volatility spillover and gold, this paper provides insights into the evolution of research paradigms over time. Ultimately, this paper not only synthesizes existing knowledge but also identifies lacunae for future investigation, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding commodity markets and their ramifications on global economies.

Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental toxicant of worldwide public health significance. Diet is the main non-workplace Cd exposure source other than smoking. The intestinal absorption of Cd involves the transporters for iron, zinc, copper, and calcium. These metal transporters essentially determine the body burden of Cd because only 0.001-0.005% of Cd accumulated in the body can be excreted in urine each day. The International Agency for Research on Cancer listed Cd as a human lung carcinogen. Current evidence, however, suggests that environmental Cd may increase the prevalence of many types of cancer, notably lung, liver, breast, pancreas, and kidney. A two-year bioassay that mimics a lifelong exposure demonstrates Cd caused neoplasms in multiple tissues of mice. Also, several non-tumorigenic human cell lines underwent malignant cell transformation, when they were exposed to a sublethal dose of Cd for a prolonged time. Cd does not directly damage DNA, but it can profoundly affect gene expression through its interactions with various proteins, and Cd can thus be viewed as a transcription modulator. The present review highlights epidemiological studies that connected an enhanced risk of various neoplastic diseases to chronic exposure to environmental Cd. Special emphasis is on the impact of body iron stores on the absorption rate of Cd, and its implications for breast cancer prevention in highly susceptible subpopulation groups of women. Resistance to cell death and other cancer phenotypes acquired during Cd-induced cancer-cell transformation, under in vitro conditions, are briefly discussed. The potential role for ZnT1 efflux transporter in cellular acquisition of tolerance to Cd cytotoxicity are highlighted.

With the growing demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) in the face of the pandemic events caused by SARS-COV-2, the opportunity arises for the development of materials with characteristics such as antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal activity, etc. The use of polymeric nanocomposites based on polyester/copper offers an alternative of great interest due to the versatility of the raw material and the high efficiency of copper as an antimicrobial additive. In this study, textile fibers prototypes with different Cu nanoparticles (CuNP) content were produced using melt-spinning to obtain bi-component multifilament fibers, and melt-blowing to obtain non-woven fabrics. The prototypes were tested against different pathogenic microorganisms such as S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. It was shown that bi-component fibers offer more excellent protection against pathogens, while non-woven fabric only shows activity against E. coli. It was possible to identify that the CuNP were confined exclusively in the outer cover of the bi-component fibers, using different analytical techniques, which may be associated with the increase in antimicrobial activity, compared to the fibers present in the non-woven fabric, even when they present the same CuNP content.

Various methods including electrochemical purification, chemical precipitation, solvent extraction, and ion-exchange resins, have maturely been used for removal of copper from nickel anolyte. Interestingly, these approaches of copper removal from nickel anolyte by precipitation are well used as the primary industrial method in nickel production again. However, these methods suffer from several severe drawbacks in industrial practices. One is that a small amount of nickel precipitates with copper in slags，resulting in slag treatment difficulties. Second, this process requires an extremely high activity of the sulfide-based copper removal agents which results in high production costs; the short storage period of the copper removal agent is another drawback of this method. These have been the key challenges in the smelting process of nickel. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of the nickel removal methods used for nickel anolyte purification, electrochemical purification, chemical precipitation, solvent extraction, and ionexchange resins. The advantages and feasibilities of each technique in industrial applications are also explored and analyzed. Finally, we demonstrate that ion-exchange resin-based extraction method can pave a new path for metallurgical research on nickel.

In response to long-lasting high levels of Metallic Trace Elements (MTEs) in urban soils, we expect soil invertebrates inhabiting urban environments to have evolved detection and avoidance and/or tolerance mechanisms to MTE pollution. In this study, I used artificial soils with concentrations of lead, zinc, copper, chromium and nickel that reflect pollution levels in soils of Parisian parks. Using choice experiments, I compared habitat preference (i.e. the occurrence of individuals in the polluted vs. unpolluted soil) and health status (i.e. body mass maintenance, mobility, mortality) between three species of endogeic earthworms – Apporectodea caliginosa, Apporectodea icterica and Allolobophora chlorotica – originating either from urban or rural grasslands. This study highlights a clear avoidance of MTE polluted soils in all three species, as well as MTE-induced health impairments, especially in A. chlorotica. Interestingly, earthworm response to MTE exposure only slightly differed between earthworms from urban and rural origin, suggesting the absence of widespread acclimatization or adaptation mechanisms to MTE pollution in cities. As a consequence, MTE pollution is expected to significantly shape earthworm spatial distribution in both urban and rural environments and, as a consequence, affect ecosystem functioning.

Aquatic animals have unique physiological mechanisms to absorb and retain minerals from their diets and water. Research and development in the area of mineral nutrition of farmed fish and crustaceans have been relatively slow and major gaps exist in the knowledge of trace element requirements, physiological functions and bioavailability from feed ingredients. Quantitative dietary requirements have been reported for three macroelements (calcium, phosphorus and magnesium) and six trace minerals (zinc, iron, copper, manganese, iodine and selenium) for selected fish species. Mineral deficiency signs in fish include reduced bone mineralization, anorexia, lens cataracts (zinc), skeletal deformities (phosphorus, magnesium, zinc), fin erosion (copper, zinc), nephrocalcinosis (magnesium deficiency, selenium toxicity), thyroid hyperplasia (iodine), muscular dystrophy (selenium) and hypochromic microcytic anaemia (iron). An excessive intake of minerals from either diet or gill uptake causes toxicity and therefore a fine balance between mineral deficiency and toxicity is vital for aquatic organisms to maintain their homeostasis either through increased absorption or excretion. Release of minerals from uneaten or undigested feed and from urinary excretion can cause eutrophication of natural waters, which requires additional consideration in feed formulation. The current knowledge in mineral nutrition of fish is briefly reviewed.

. This article presents, for the first time, the kinetics and the general features of a photopolymerization system (under visible light) G1/ Iodonium/ TEA/gold chloride (or A/B/N/G), having initial concentrations of A0, B0, N0 and G0, based on the proposed mechanism of Tar et al. Analytic formulas are developed to explore the new features including: (i) both FRP efficacy and the production of nanogold (NG) are proportional to the relative concentration ratios of (A0+B0+N0)/G0, which may be optimized for maximum efficacy; (ii) the two competing procedure of NG production and efficacy of free radical photopolymerization (FRP) can be tailored for optimal system with nanogold in the polymer matrix;(ii) the FRP efficacy is contributed by 3 components: the coupling of the excited state of copper complex (T) with the radicals (R and S) produced by the iodonium and the amine; (iii) the production of NG is contributed by 2 components: the coupling of T and radical (S) with gold ion; (iv) NG production has a transient state value which is an increasing function of light intensity and the combined concentration ratio [(A0/G0)+(N0/(K'M0). whereas it has a steady-state independent to the light intensity.

Here we report the effect of substrate, sonication process, and post-annealing on the structural, morphological, and optical properties of ZnO thin films grown in the presence of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) at temperature 30 – 65 ℃ by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method on both soda lime glass (SLG) and Cu foil. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the preferential growth thin films along (002) and (101) plane of wurtzite ZnO structure while grown on SLG and Cu foil substrate respectively. Both XRD and Raman spectra confirmed the ZnO and Cu-oxide phases of the deposited films. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the deposited films shows compact and uniformly distributed grains for samples grown without sonication while using IPA at temperature 50 and 65 ℃. The post-annealing treatment improves the crystallinity of the films, further evident by XRD and transmission and reflection results. The estimated optical bandgaps are in the range of 3.37-3.48 eV for as-grown samples. Results revealed that high-quality ZnO thin films could be grown without sonication using IPA dispersant at 50 ℃, which is much lower than the reported results using the SILAR method. This study suggests that in the presence of IPA, the SLG substrate results in better c-axis oriented ZnO thin films than that of DI water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol at the optimum temperature of 50 ℃. Air-annealing of the samples grown on Cu foils induced the formation of Cu_xO/ZnO junctions which is evident from the characteristic I-V curve including the structural and optical data.

The impact of metals bioaccumulation on marine organisms is under investigation. This study was designed to determine the association of oxidative stress in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis induced by seawater enriched with trace metals with protein synthesis. Mussels were exposed to 40 μg/L Cu, 30 μg/L Hg, or 100 μg/L Cd for 5 and 15 days, and the pollution effect was evaluated by measuring established oxidative biomarkers. The results showed damage on the protein synthesis machine integrity and specifically, on translation factors and ribosomal proteins expression and modifications. Exposure of mussels to all metals caused oxidative damage that was milder in the cases of Cu and Hg, and more pronounced for Cd. However, after prolonged exposure of mussels to Cd (15 days), the effects receded. These changes that perturb protein biosynthesis can serve as a great tool for elucidating the mechanisms of toxicity and could be integrated in biomonitoring programs.

The aim of this work is to assess the influence of Friction Stir Welding (FSW), process parameters, optimized tool traveling speed, and corrosion resistance of the 0.95 Mg-Al-alloy and pure copper weldment. Samples of aluminum-copper with and without deformation were characterized to investigate the metallurgical effects created during the welding deformation process. Effect of process parameters on microstructure and corrosion rate have been investigated for all the samples. All the electrochemical and polarization tests were done in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Scanning Kelvin Probe (SKP) was done to detect the localized corrosion on the surface. Optical micrography observation indicated that the primary α-Al phase, which was formed during solidification can effectively limit the growth of Cu₉Al₄ phase. Finer acicular α-Al precipitates were observed in CuAl matrix during joining process that tends to coarser with the increase in tools travel speed. The electrochemical and polarization results showed that among all the tool travelling speed the specimen joined at tool travelling speed of 40 mm/min shows the best non-corrosive property.

The Qiushuwan Cu-Mo deposit, located in the East Qinling molybdenum belt, which is a major mining site recognized for its enormous reserves of medium-sized molybdenum. In order to enhance our comprehension and ascertain supplementary mineral resources, it is critical to conduct an in-depth investigation of both the deep and peripheral regions. The primary goal of this study is to investigate the Qiushuwan Copper Molybdenum Mine, which is located in Zhenping County, Henan Province. The spread spectrum-induced polarization (SSIP) method is utilized as a means of conducting mining exploratory analysis. Significant findings have been obtained through the collection of SSIP data, geological analysis, and electrical parameter study of rock and ore samples along profile-80. By conducting a meticulous examination of the SSIP data at suitable frequencies, two prominent conductive ore bodies, specifically C2 and C4, have been successfully discovered. C2 exhibits a correlation with granite porphyry and molybdenum veins, while C4 is linked to a skarn deposit that contains a concentration of copper ore. The spatial differences in conductivity within the research area have been precisely characterized using resistivity models obtained from the SSIP data. The precision and dependability of our conclusions have been confirmed through the integration of borehole data and the matching of geological sections with inversion models. The recovered core samples show a diverse range of minerals, containing both valuable ores and minerals that have undergone alteration. Pyrite constantly appears with molybdenite in the majority of samples. The aforementioned results provide a strong foundation for future exploration initiatives and sustainable resource exploitation, enabling informed decision-making in the effective use and administration of natural resources. This study adds to the existing body of knowledge on the Qiushuwan Cu-Mo deposit and improves exploration methods in the region by utilizing the SSIP approach. The findings are a useful asset for geologists, mining experts, and stakeholders, offering essential knowledge for future exploration and sustainable utilization of resources.

This study explores the stability of electrodeposited copper catalysts utilized in electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) across various amine media. The focus is on understanding the influence of different amine types, corrosion ramifications, and the efficacy of pulse ECR methodologies. Employing a suite of electrochemical techniques including potentiodynamic polarization, linear resistance polarization, cyclic voltammetry, and chronopotentiometry, the investigation reveals useful insights. The findings show that among the tested amines, CO2-rich monoethanolamine (MEA) exhibits the highest corrosion rate. However, in most cases the rates remain within tolerable limits for ECR operations. Primary amines, notably monoethanolamine (MEA), show enhanced compatibility with ECR processes, attributable to their resistance against carbonate salt precipitation and sustained stability in potential over extended durations. Conversely, tertiary amines such as methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) present challenges due to the formation of carbonate salts during ECR, impeding their effective utilization. The study highlights the effectiveness of pulse ECR strategies in stabilizing ECR. A noticeable shift in cathodic potential and reduced deposit formation on the catalyst surface through periodic oxidation underscores the efficacy of such strategies. These findings offer insights for optimizing ECR in amine media, thereby providing promising pathways for advancements in CO2 emission reduction technologies.

Polyimide (PI) films are widely used in electronic devices owing to their excellent mechanical and electrical properties and high thermal and chemical stabilities. In particular, PI films play an important role in flexible printed circuit boards (FPCBs). However, one challenge currently faced with their use is that the adhesives used in FPCBs cause a high dielectric loss in high-frequency applications. Therefore, it is envisioned that PI films with a low dielectric loss and Cu films can be used to prepare two-layer flexible copper clad laminates (FCCLs) without any adhesive. However, the preparation of ultra-thin FCCLs with no adhesives is difficult owing to the low peel strength between the PI films and Cu films. To address this technical challenge, an FCCL with no adhesive was prepared by high-power helicon wave plasma (HWP) treatment. The surface roughness of the PI film and the peel strength between the PI film and Cu film were measured. The experimental results showed that the surface roughness of the PI film increased by 40-65% and the PI film demonstrated improved adhesion (the peel strength was &gt;8.0 N/cm) with the Cu film following plasma treatment and Cu plating.

In pursuit of carbon neutrality, the demand for metals that are necessary for the development of clean energy technologies is rapidly increasing. Metallurgical waste, such as slag, presents a promising secondary source of these key metals. This research aims to develop an eco-friendly hydrometallurgical process to recover Cu, Ni, and Co from discarded copper/nickel slag. The high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) was used to selectively leach Ni, Cu, and Co from the fayalite slag, yielding high leaching efficiencies of 99.9%, 89.4%, and 99.9%, respectively, with low Fe and Si tenors to the pregnant leach solution (PLS). The solvent extraction (SX) technique utilizing LIX 984N was used to selectively extract and enrich copper from the dilute PLS to about 23 g/L Cu with a very low Fe concentration of 0.05 g/L. Potassium amyl xanthate (PAX) solution was used to form Ni and Co xanthate complexes from the raffinate solution. Nickel was selectively recovered using ammonia solution, while cobalt xanthate complex was thermally decomposed and recovered as cobalt oxide solids of about 25 wt.% Co. A comprehensive process flowsheet is presented, furthermore, to realize the real application of the developed slag cleaning process, a preliminary economic evaluation was performed.

Macroautophagy/autophagy plays an important role in cellular copper clearance. The means by which the copper metabolism and autophagy pathways interact mechanistically is vastly unexplored. Dysfunctional ATP7B, a copper-transporting ATPase, is involved in the development of monogenic Wilson disease, a disorder characterized by disturbed copper transport. Using in silico prediction, we found that ATP7B contains a number of potential binding sites for LC3, a central protein in autophagy pathway, so-called LC3 interaction regions (LIRs). The conserved LIR3, located at the C-terminal end of ATP7B, was found to directly interact with LC3B in vitro. Replacing the two conserved hydrophobic residues W1452 and L1455 of LIR3 significantly reduced interaction. Furthermore, autophagy was induced in normal human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) leading to enhanced colocalization of ATP7B and LC3B on the autophagosome membranes. By contrast, HepG2 cells deficient of ATP7B (HepG2 ATP7B-/-) showed autophagy deficiency at elevated copper condition. This phenotype was complemented by heterologous ATP7B expression. These findings suggest a cooperative role of ATP7B and LC3B in autophagy-mediated copper clearance.

Mechanical robustness, biocompatibility, and antibacterial performances are key features for materials suitable to be used in tissue engineering applications. In this work, we investigated the link existing between structural and functional properties of TiCu(Ag) thin films deposited by physical vapor deposition magnetron sputtering on Si substrates. The thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), nanoindentation, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The TiCu(Ag) thin films showed complete amorphous structure and improved mechanical properties in comparison with pure Ti films. However, for contents in excess of 20% Ag, we observed the appearance of nanometric Ag crystallite. The TiCu(Ag) thin films displayed excellent biocompatibility properties, allowing adhesion and proliferation of the human fibroblasts MRC-5 cell line. Moreover, all the investigated TiCu(Ag) alloy display bactericidal properties, preventing the growth of both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Results obtained from biological tests have been correlated to the surface structure and microstructure of films. The excellent biocompatibility and bactericidal properties of these multifunctional thin films opens to their use in tissue engineering applications.

Efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts are highly desired in the field of water electrolysis and rechargeable metal-air batteries. In this study, a chelate polymer, composed of copper (II) and dithiooxamide, was used to derive an efficient catalytic system for OER. Upon potential sweep in 1M KOH, copper (II) centers of the chelate polymer were transformed to CuO and Cu(OH)2. The carbon-dispersed CuO nanostructures formed a nanocomposite which exhibits an enhanced catalytic activity for OER in alkaline media. The nanocomposite catalyst has overpotential of 280 mV (at 1 mA/cm2) and a Tafel slope of 81 mV/dec in 1M KOH solution. It has a seven-fold higher current than IrO2/C electrode, per metal loading. A catalytic cycle is proposed, in which, CuO undergoes electrooxidation to Cu2O3 that further decomposes to CuO with releasing oxygen. This work reveals a new method to produce an active nanocomposite catalyst for OER in alkaline media using a non-noble metal chelate polymer and a porous carbon. This method can be applied to the synthesis of transition metal oxide nanoparticles used in the preparation of composite electrodes for water electrolyzers and can be used to derive cathode materials for aqueous-type metal-air batteries.

Real-time evolution of the electron densities under excitations in La₂CuO₄ was calculated by the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT). The author found, for the first time, under excitations, the electron cloud of Cu²⁺ changes obviously and the characteristic frequencies are 83 meV and 36 meV, respectively, for two different modes. The results are unexpected and close to that of lattice vibrations. The results show that the electron cloud of Cu²⁺ (just like the lattice) can be the electron-pairing medium in high temperature copper oxide superconductors.

Chitosan decorated copper nanoparticles (CS/CuNPs) catalysts were synthesized via reduction methods utilizing green protocol. The CS/CuNPs hybrid catalysts were tested for the synthesis of quinoline derivatives utilizing one-pot multicomponent reaction (MCR) under ultrasonic irradiation. The best catalyst (CS/CuNPs) that provided good conversion reaction yield and high turnover frequency (TOF) was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), , scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. Generalization of the scope of the proposed catalytic process was studied using different aldehydes. Excellent products yield and high TOF in even shorter reaction time (~5 min) was attained. Recyclability performance of the catalyst over five times re-use without detectable loss in product yield was recorded. The current method is green process utilizing environmentally benign catalyst and considered to be promising sustainable protocol for the synthesis of fine chemicals.

There is an urgent demand worldwide for the development of highly selective adsorbents and sensors of heavy metal ions and other organic pollutants. Within these environmental and public health frameworks, we are combining the salient features of clays and chelatant polymers to design selective metal ion adsorbents. Towards this end, the ion imprinting approach has been used to develop a novel nanohybrid material for the selective separation of Cu2+ ions in aqueous solution. The Cu2+-imprinted polymer/ montmorillonite nanocomposite (IIP/Mt) and non-imprinted polymer/montmorillonite nanocomposite (NIP/Mt) were prepared by radical photopolymerization process in the visible light. Ion imprinting was indeed important as the recognition of copper ions by IIP/Mt was significantly superior to that of NIP/Mt that is the nanocomposite synthesized in the same way but in the absence of Cu2+ ions. The adsorption process as batch study was investigated under the experimental condition affecting same parameters such as contact time, concentration of ions metals and pH. The adsorption capacity of Cu2+ ions is maximized at pH 5. Removal of Cu2+ ion achieved equilibrium within 15 minutes; the results obtained were found to be fitted by the pseudo-second order kinetics model. The equilibrium process was well described by the Langmuir isothermal model and the maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 23.6 mg/g.

The new mineral species oyonite, ideally Ag3Mn2Pb4Sb7As4S24, has been discovered in the Uchucchacua polymetallic deposit, Oyon district, Catajambo, Lima Department, Peru, as very rare black metallic subhedral to anhedral crystals, up to 100 μm in length, associated with orpiment, tennantite/tetrahedrite, menchettiite, and other unnamed minerals of the system Pb-Ag-Sb-Mn-As-S, in calcite matrix. Its Vickers hardness (VHN100) is 137 kg/mm2 (range 132–147). In reflected light, oyonite is weakly to moderately bireflectant and weakly pleochroic from dark grey to a dark green. Internal reflections are absent. Reflectance values for the four COM wavelengths (Rmin, Rmax (%) (λ in nm)) are: 33.9, 40.2 (471.1); 32.5, 38.9 (548.3), 31.6, 38.0 (586.6); and 29.8, 36.5 (652.3). Electron microprobe analysis gave (in wt %, average of 5 spot analyses): Cu 0.76 (2), Ag 8.39 (10), Mn 3.02 (7), Pb 24.70 (25), As 9.54 (12), Sb 28.87 (21), S 24.30 (18), total 99.58 (23). On the basis of 20 cations per formula unit, the chemical formula of oyonite is Cu0.38Ag2.48Mn1.75Pb3.79Sb7.55As4.05S24.12. The main diffraction lines are (d in Å, hkl and relative intensity): 3.34 (-312; 40), 3.29 (-520; 100), 2.920 (-132; 40), 2.821 (-232; 70), 2.045 (004; 50). The crystal structure study revealed oyonite to be monoclinic, space group P21/n, with unit-cell parameters a = 19.1806 (18), b = 12.7755 (14), c = 8.1789 (10) Å, β = 90.471 (11)°, V = 2004.1 (4) Å3, Z = 2. The crystal structure was refined to a final R1 = 0.032 for 6272 independent reflections. Oyonite belongs to the Sb-rich members of the andorite homeotypic sub-series within the lillianite homologous series. The name oyonite is after the Oyon district, Lima Department, Peru, the district where the type locality (Uchucchacua mine) is located.

Abstract Eye health is crucial and the onset of diseases can reduce vision and affect the quality of life of patients. The main causes of progressive and irreversible vision loss include various pathologies such as cataracts, ocular atrophy, corneal opacity, age-related macular degeneration, uncorrected refractive error, posterior capsular opacification, uveitis, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, undetermined disease and other disorders involving oxidative stress and inflammation. The eyes are constantly exposed to the external environment and, for this reason, must be protected from damage from the outside. Many drugs, including cortisonics and antinflammatory drugs have widely been used to counteract eye disorders. However, recent advances have been obtained via supplementation of patients with natural antioxidants and nutraceuticals. In particular, evidence has been accumulated that polyphenols (mostly deriving from Citrus Bergamia) represent a reliable source of antioxidants able to counteract oxidative stress accompanying early stages of eye diseases. Luteolin, in particular, has been found to protect foto-receptors thereby improving vision in many disease states. Moreover, a consistent anti-inflammatory response was found to occur when curcumin is used alone or in combination with other nutraceuticals. On the other hand, CoQ10 has been demonstrated to produce consistent effect in reducing ocular pressure thereby leding to protection in patients undergoing glaucoma. Finally, both grape seed extract rich in anthocyanosides and polynsatured fatty acids (PUFAs) seem to contribute in the prevention of retinal disorders. Thus, combination of nutraceuticals and anti-oxidants may represent the right solution for a multiaction activity in eye protection to be associated to current drug therapies, and this will be of potential interest in early stages of eye disorders.

This study concerns calculation and comparison of Fe, Co, Ni and Cu deposition rates in tungsten codeposition process based on electrodeposition of numerous tungsten alloys. 8 different tungsten alloys containing from 2 to 5 metals were electrodeposited in constant conditions in order to compare exact reduction rates. Calculated rates enabled control of the alloy composition precise enough to obtain a high-entropy WFeCoNiCu alloy with well-balanced composition. Introduction of copper to form the quinternary alloy was found to catalyze the whole process, increasing deposition rates of all components of the high-entropy alloy.

Using straightforward and cost-effective methods, persimmon leaves were converted into a high-quality powder. This powder was applied as an adsorbent for the removal of Cu(II) and Cd(II) from aqueous solutions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicated the presence of particles with non-homogeneous sizes and rough texture. Elemental analysis and the EDX technique confirmed the presence of elements such as sulfur, phosphorus, nitrogen, and oxygen. The results of ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance (¹³C-NMR), obtained through the cross-polarization technique, suggest the presence of groups containing sulfur and oxygen. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated the existence of amine and hydroxyl groups. The material was used in solid-phase extraction of Cu(II) and Cd(II) in batch experiments, and its adsorption capacity was evaluated as a function of time, pH, and analyte concentration. Kinetic equilibrium was reached within 5 minutes, and the experimental data were fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The optimum pH for adsorption of both metal species was observed to be around 5.0. The adsorption isotherms were adjusted using the modified Langmuir equation, and the maximum amount of metal species extracted from the solution was determined to be 0.213 mmol g^-1 for Cu(II) and 0.215 mmol g^-1 for Cd(II), with high linear correlation coefficients for both metals. The persimmon leaves are typically abundant during the growing season, and since they are seasonal, the Diospyros kaki L.f. tree undergoes the natural process of leaf abscission, ensuring the availability of leaves for application.

Work in the copper mining industry is often associated with exposure to respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica. This exposure has the potential to cause silicosis, a non-curable occupational respiratory lung disease. This study aimed at establishing the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, work behaviour and practice, compliance with safety standards and exposure to respirable dust. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted on 528 mine workers. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) was used for descriptives. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with latent variables and partial least-squares (LVPLS) analysis was employed to determine the relationship among these variables. The results indicated that of the four (4) hypotheses, two (2) were supported and two (2) were rejected showing that there is a significant relationship between exposure to respirable dust and work behaviour and practice, as well as compliance with safety standards. Knowledge and attitudes towards respirable dust exposure did not significantly influence exposure. According to the results from the survey, positive work behaviour and practice as well as compliance with safety standards was significantly associated with exposure to respirable dust. It is recommended that the mine should focus on the miners’ work behaviour and practice and compliance with safety standards.

The key objective of the experiment was to show the environmental based of copper nanoparticles which counters the growth of bacterial pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. To begin with the experiments, root extract of Asparagus racemosus was used to synthesise Copper nanoparticles. To confirm the formation of Cu-NPs, it was subjected to characterization such as Ultra Violet analysis, X-ray Diffraction method, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscope images. Later the antibacterial activity of Cu-NPs was studied by incorporating it into two bacterial pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus). The outcome displayed a satisfactory antibacterial activity against the bacterial pathogens by the biosynthesized copper nanoparticles. To boost up the enzyme inhibition property of the Cu NPs, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic assay were also performed. The biosynthesised Cu NPs displayed a satisfied result in Antifouling function. The result was used assessed with green algae bloom water.

Carrageenan (car-), used in the pharmaceutical as well as food industry, is marine sulfated polysaccharides. The carrageenan blends (CB) of kappa (κ-), iota (ι-), and lambda (λ-) of 50/50 weight by weight are multipurpose and biocompatible hydrophilic polymers. They were subjected to adsorption of copper (Cu2+) ions. The aim of the study was to conduct extensive rheological and mechanical studies rendering them suitable for biological purposes. The rheology was conducted at various temperatures using a frequency curve, frequency sweep, loss modulus, and storage modulus analysis. Models of rheology like Ostwald, Bingham, and Modified Bingham models were utilized. The rheological results demonstrated non-Newtonian/pseudo-plastic behavior at various temperatures. The models of rheology demonstrated good flow properties and rheological performance of these materials. These materials could be exploited for their application in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. Thus, our study reflects that these CB can be safely exploited in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and food industry. However, further studies should be conducted to evaluate their effectiveness in clinical studies.

In the paper, the results of an investigation into trace elements found in slag sulphides from 14 archaeological Bronze Age settlements of the Cis-Urals, Trans-Urals and North and Central Kazakhstan are presented. The study used Cu-(Fe)-sulphides as indicator minerals. Cu-(Fe)-S minerals in slags are primarily represented by covellite and chalcocite, as well as by rarer bornite and single chalcopyrite grains. Slag sulphides formed relic clasts and neogenic droplets of different shapes and sizes. Supergenic ores in the Bronze Age in Urals and Kazakhstan played a significant role in the mineralogical raw material base. In sulphides, the main indicator elements Fe, Co, Ni, As, Se, Te, Sb, Ag, Pb, and Bi are important markers of copper deposit types. Sulphides from olivine Cr-rich spinel containing slags of Ustye, Turganik, and Kuzminkovskoe 2 are characterised by As-Co-Ni assemblages and confined to copper deposits in ultramafic rocks. Olivine sulphide-containing slags from Kamenny Ambar, Konoplyanka and Sarlybay 3 are characterised by Co-Se-Te assemblage and confined to mafic rocks. Glassy sulphide-containing slags from Katzbakh 6, Turganik, Ordynsky Ovrag, Ivanovskoe, Tokskoe, Bulanovskoe 2, Pokrovskoe, Rodnikovoe, and Taldysay are characterised by Ag-Pb-(Ba)-(Bi) assemblage and confined to cupriferous sandstone deposits. High As, Sb, Sn and Ba contents found in slags can be seen as indicators of alloying or flux components in primary copper smelting. These include samples from Ustye, Katzbakh 6, Rodnikovoe, and Taldysay sites, where high Ba and As slag contents are identified. The compilation of a database with a broad sample of sulphide compositions from Bronze Age slags and mines in the Urals and Kazakhstan will permit the further identification of ore types and raw materials associated with a particular deposit.

The neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimers, Parkinsons, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntingdons) and the prion disorders, have in common a dysregulation of metalloprotein chemistry involving redox metals (Cu,Fe,Mn). The consequent oxidative stress gives rise to protein plaques and neuronal cell death. An equilibrium exists between the functional requirement of the brain for Cu and Fe and their destructive potential with the production of reactive oxygen species. The importance of the brain barrier is highlighted in regulating the import of these metals. Upregulation of key transporters occurs in foetal and neonatal life when brain metal requirement is high and is down-regulated in adult life when need is minimal. By contrast a neonatal mode of CTR1 upregulation persists in feral N.Ronaldsay sheep. This has led to the premise that metal regulation may return to the default setting in ageing with implications for neurodegenerative disease.

Gymnema sylvestre is a pharmacological plant which has a rich source of bioactive compounds specifically gymnemic acid (GA) and phenolic compounds (PC) that used for pharmaceutical industries. Sources for naturally occurring bioactive compounds are limited, due to geographical and seasonal variations; on the other hand, it is commercially in demand. Biosynthesis of G. sylvestre phytochemicals through in vitro culture often enhanced by elicitation. The use of cell suspension cultures (CSC) has interested serious attention on the production of essential phytochemicals. The current study is aimed at improving the contents of GA and PC in G. sylvestre CSC using the copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs). Callus was obtained on MS medium with 2.0 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 0.1 mg/L kinetin (KIN), phytoagar (8.0 g/L), and sucrose (30 g/L). The above medium devoid of agar was used for the initiation of CSC. The CSC was treated with three levels of CuO NPs (1, 3 or 5 mg/L) to enhance the production of GA and PC. The greatest amount of GA (89.25 mg/g dry cell mass, DCM), total phenolic (245.10 mg/g), and flavonoid (4.57 mg/g) in CSC were achieved when G. sylvestre cells were treated for 48 h with 3 mg/L CuO NPs. Also, the biomedical potential (antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activities) were also high in the CuO NPs (3 mg/L) treated CSC extracts of G. sylvestre. CuO NPs elicitation of CSC significantly increased production of GA (9-fold), and PC than non-elicited CSC in G. sylvestre.

Micronutrient deficiencies are a major public health problem. Beans are an important plant-based source of iron, zinc and copper, but their absorption is reduced in the presence of anti-nutrients such as phytates, polyphenols and tannins. Soaking and discarding the soaking water before cooking is unanimously recommended, but this can result in mineral loss. Data on the consequences for mineral bioaccessibility is still limited. This study aimed to evaluate iron, zinc and copper bioaccessibility in black beans cooked (regular pan, pressure cooker) with and without the soaking water. Minerals were quantified by ICP-MS, myo-inositol phosphates (InsP₅, InsP₆) by HPLC ion-pair chromatography, total polyphenols using Folin-Denis reagent and condensed tannins using Vanillin assay. Mineral bioaccessibility was determined by in vitro digestion and dialysis. All treatments resulted in a statistically significant reduction of total polyphenols (30%) and condensed tannins (20%). Only when discarding the soaking water a loss of iron (6%) and copper (30%) was observed, and InsP₆ was slightly decreased (7%) in one treatment. Bioaccessibility of iron and zinc were low (about 0.2% iron and 35% zinc), but copper presented high bioaccessibility (about 70%). Cooking beans under pressure without discarding the soaking water resulted in the highest bioaccessibility levels among all household procedures. Discarding the soaking water before cooking did not improve the nutritional quality of the beans.

With the increasing of copper consumption, the in-use stock of copper tends to increase. This paper used the “average use life method” to quantify the amount of copper in-use stock, and calculated the average age of in-use stock. It was indicated that the total in-use stock had an overall smooth trends, and reached its peak in 2007 was about 68.9 Mt (million tons), in addition, in-use stock per capita reached its peak ,234 kg/capita in 2001. The results demonstrated that during the period 1992-2002, the average age of copper in-use stock was continually decreased, but gradually increased since the year 2003. The fixed assets depreciation method used in this paper is applied to analyze depreciated copper in-use stock, and to analyze the relationship with economic indicator (GDP). It is demonstrated that it was inconsistent with the theory of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) before 2000, this might be the demand for copper in the service sector is greater than the reduced strength of alternatives. Finally, scenario analysis of future copper in-use stock and depreciated copper in-use stock per capita in the U.S. were presented. The corresponding average age of the in-use stock will have a slight rise in the next decade.