The rhizosphere microbiome reduces the uptake of arsenic and tungsten by Blechnum orientale by increasing nutrient cycling in historical tungsten mining area soils

The growth of pioneer plants in metal mining area soil is closely related to their minimal uptake of toxic elements. Pioneer plants can inhibit the uptake of toxic elements by increasing nutrient uptake. However, few studies have focused on the mechanisms by which the rhizosphere microbiome affect nutrient cycling and their impact on the uptake of toxic elements by pioneer plants. In this study, we selected Blechnum orientale to investigate the potential roles of the rhizosphere microbiome in nutrient cycling and plant growth in a historical tungsten (W) mining area. Our results showed that while the arsenic (As) and W contents in the soil were relatively high, the enrichment levels of As and W in the B. orientale were relatively low. Furthermore, we found that the As and W contents in plants were significantly negatively correlated with soil nutrients (S, P and Mo), suggesting that elevated levels of these soil nutrients could inhibit As and W uptake by B. orientale. Importantly, we found that these nutrients were also identified as the most important factors shaping rhizosphere microbial attributes, including microbial diversity, ecological clusters, and keystone OTUs. Moreover, the genera, keystone taxa and microbial functional genes enriched in the rhizosphere soils from mining areas played a key role in nutrient (S, P and Mo) bioavailability, which could further increase the nutrient uptake by B. orientale. Taken together, our results suggest that rhizosphere microorganisms can improve pioneer plant growth by inhibiting toxic element accumulation via the increase in nutrient cycling in former W mining areas.

Tungsten Filled 3-Dimensional Printed Lung Blocks for Total Body Irradiation

PURPOSE

Lung blocks for total-body irradiation are commonly used to reduce lung dose and prevent radiation pneumonitis. Currently, molten Cerrobend containing toxic materials, specifically lead and cadmium, is poured into molds to construct blocks. We propose a streamlined method to create 3-dimensional (3D)-printed lung block shells and fill them with tungsten ball bearings to remove lead and improve overall accuracy in the block manufacturing workflow.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

3D-printed lung block shells were automatically generated using an inhouse software, printed, and filled with 2 to 3 mm diameter tungsten ball bearings. Clinical Cerrobend blocks were compared with the physician drawn blocks as well as our proposed tungsten filled 3D-printed blocks. Physical and dosimetric comparisons were performed on a linac. Dose transmission through the Cerrobend and 3D-printed blocks were measured using point dosimetry (ion-chamber) and the on-board Electronic-Portal-Imaging-Device (EPID). Dose profiles from the EPID images were used to compute the full-width-half-maximum and to compare with the treatment-planning-system. Additionally, the coefficient-of-variation in the central 80% of full-width-half-maximum was computed and compared between Cerrobend and 3D-printed blocks.

RESULTS

The geometric difference between treatment-planning-system and 3D-printed blocks was significantly lower than Cerrobend blocks (3D: -0.88 ± 2.21 mm, Cerrobend: -2.28 ± 2.40 mm, P = .0002). Dosimetrically, transmission measurements through the 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks for both ion-chamber and EPID dosimetry were between 42% to 48%, compared with the open field. Additionally, coefficient-of-variation was significantly higher in 3D-printed blocks versus Cerrobend blocks (3D: 4.2% ± 0.6%, Cerrobend: 2.6% ± 0.7%, P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

We designed and implemented a tungsten filled 3D-printed workflow for constructing total-body-irradiation lung blocks, which serves as an alternative to the traditional Cerrobend based workflow currently used in clinics. This workflow has the capacity of producing clinically useful lung blocks with minimal effort to facilitate the removal of toxic materials from the clinic.

Photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline using a novel WO3-ZnO/AC under visible light irradiation: Optimization of effective factors by RSM-CCD

Mitigating pharmaceutical pollution in the global environment is imperative, and tetracycline (TC) is a commonly utilized antibiotic in human and veterinary medicine. The persistent existence of TC highlights the necessity of establishing efficient measures to protect water systems and the environment from detrimental contaminants. Herein, a novel rhubarb seed waste-derived activated carbon-supported photocatalyst (WO3-ZnO/RUAC) was synthesized by combining wet impregnation and ultrasonic methods. The activated carbon (AC) was obtained from rhubarb seed waste for the first time via chemical activation. The function of AC as an electron acceptor and in separating electron-hole pairs was illuminated by characterization analyses that included XRD, FTIR, XPS, SEM, TEM, PL, EIS, TPC, and UV-DRS. Using the response surface methodology-central composite design (RSM-CCD) technique, the synthesis parameters of the composite were systematically optimized. Under ideal conditions, with a TC concentration of 33 mg. L-1, pH of 4.57, irradiation time of 108 min, and catalyst dose of 0.85 g. L-1, the highest degradation efficiency of TC by this composite, achieved 96.5%, and it was reusable for five cycles. Subsequently, trapping tests and electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis were conducted, elucidating that •OH and •O2- radicals played pivotal roles in the photocatalytic degradation of TC. This research offers valuable insights into utilizing the AC-based photocatalyst to degrade pharmaceutical micropollutants effectively.

Monte-Carlo study of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography with cadmium telluride photon-counting x-ray detectors

BACKGROUND

Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) with photon-counting x-ray detectors (PCDs) can be used to improve the classification of breast cancers as benign or malignant. Commercially-available PCD-based mammography systems use silicon-based PCDs. Cadmium-telluride (CdTe) PCDs may provide a practical advantage over silicon-based PCDs because they can be implemented as large-area detectors that are more easily adaptable to existing mammography systems.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this work is to optimize CESM implemented with CdTe PCDs and to investigate the influence of the number of energy bins, electronic noise level, pixel size, and anode material on image quality.

METHODS

We developed a Monte Carlo model of the energy-bin-dependent modulation transfer functions (MTFs) and noise power spectra, including spatioenergetic noise correlations. We validated model predictions using a CdTe PCD with analog charge summing for charge-sharing suppression. Using the ideal-observer detectability, we optimized CESM for the task of detecting a 7-mm-diameter iodine nodule embedded in a breast with 50% glandularity. We optimized the tube voltage, beam filtration, and the location of energy thresholds for 50 and 100- μ $\mu$ m pixels, tungsten and molybdenum anodes, and two electronic noise levels. One of the electronic noise levels was that of the experimental system; the other was half that of the experimental system. Optimization was performed for CdTe PCDs with two or three energy bins. We also estimated the impact of anatomic noise due to background parenchymal enhancement and computed the minimum detectable iodine area density in the presence of quantum and anatomic noise.

RESULTS

Model predictions of the MTFs and noise power spectra agreed well with experiment. For optimized systems, adding a third energy bin increased quantum noise levels and reduced detectability by ∼55% compared to two-bin approaches that simply suppress contrast between fibroglandular and adipose tissue. Decreasing the electronic noise standard deviation from 3.4 to 1.7 keV increased iodine detectability by ∼5% and ∼30% for two-bin imaging and three-bin imaging, respectively. After optimizing for tube voltage, beam filtration, and the location of energy thresholds, there was ∼a 3% difference in iodine detectability between molybdenum and tungsten anodes for two-bin imaging, but for three-bin imaging, molybdenum anodes provided up to 14% increase in detectability relative to tungsten anodes. Anatomic noise decreased iodine detectability by 15% to 40%, with greater impact for lower electronic noise settings and larger pixel sizes.

CONCLUSIONS

For CESM implemented with CdTe PCDs, (1) quantitatively-accurate three-material decompositions using three energy bins are associated with substantial increases in quantum noise relative to two-energy-bin approaches that simply suppress contrast between fibroglandular and adipose tissues; (2) tungsten and molybdenum anodes can provide nearly equal iodine detectability for two-bin imaging, but molybdenum provides a modest detectability advantage for three-bin imaging provided that all other technique parameters are optimized; (3) reducing pixel sizes from 100 to 50  μ $\mu$ m can reduce detectability by up to 20% due to charge sharing; (4) anatomic noise due to background parenchymal enhancement is estimated to have a substantial impact on lesion visibility, reducing detectability by approximately 30%.

Is Cladophora fracta an efficient tool of accumulating critical raw materials from wastewater and there a potential health risk of use of algae as organic fertilizer?

 In this study investigation of accumulations of critical raw materials (cobalt (Co), antimony (Sb), vanadium (V), lanthanum (La) and tungsten (W)) from wastewater by using C. fracta were aimed. Besides, assessment of the potential health risks in terms of the use of organic fertilizer obtained from the macroalga to be harvested from the treatment were also aimed. Highest Co, Sb, V, La and W accumulations by algae in reactor were 125±6.2%, 201.25±10%, 318.18±15%, 357.97±18%, and 500±25%, respectively. When compared with control, Co, Sb, V, La and W in algae increased 2.25, 3.01, 4.18, 4.58, and 6 times, respectively. The algae was very high bioaccumulative for Co and La. Highest MPI was calculated as 3.94. Non-carcinogenic risk of CRMs according to different exposure types (ingestion, inhalation, and dermal) were calculated for man, woman and child. There is not any non-carcinogenic risk from the investigated exposure ways of algae as organic fertilizer.

Pulp chamber temperature changes and enamel surface analysis during orthodontic composite removal using 3 different burs in a repeatable approach: an experimental study

BACKGROUND

During the debonding phase every clinician has to take care of preserving the enamel structure and tooth temperature. The objective of this study was to analyze in vitro the increase of the pulp chamber temperature and the wearing of enamel surface, during adhesive removal after debonding.

METHODS

Sixty extracted human teeth were selected. An orthodontic bracket was bonded on each tooth and after bracket removal, intraoral scanner pictures were used to evaluate ARI for each tooth. Three different burs were tested: tungsten-carbide multiple blades, arkansas stone and ceramic bur. A mechanical arm controlled by a dedicated software was used to reproduce a repeatable act of composite removal. To analyze in vitro the pulp chamber temperature during the composite removal procedure, teeth were treated endodontically placing a thermocouple through the root canal from the apex. A software registered temperature changes in a continuous manner. The enamel surface of every tooth was tested after the removal of composite with an optical stereoscopic microscope.

RESULTS

An association existed between maximum internal pulp chamber temperature variation and irrigation (P<0.0001) and between maximum internal pulp chamber temperature variation and bur type (P=0.0133), with a significantly lower temperature increase produced by the arkansas bur. A significant difference among groups was detected for ESI and EDI assessment (P=0.002, P=0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the initial setup, temperature variation analysis showed more conservative results using the arkansas burs with irrigation. ESI and EDI indexes showed significant enamel surface damage using tungsten-carbide burs.

Joint associations among non-essential heavy metal mixtures and nutritional factors on glucose metabolism indexes in US adults: evidence from the NHANES 2011-2016

Dietary intake can modify the impact of metals on human health, and is also closely related to glucose metabolism in human bodies. However, research on their interaction is limited. We used data based on 1738 adults aged ≥20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2016. We combined linear regression and restricted cubic splines with Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to identify metals associated with each glucose metabolism index (P < 0.05 and the posterior inclusion probabilities of BKMR >0.5) in eight non-essential heavy metals (barium, cadmium, antimony, tungsten, uranium, arsenic, lead, and thallium) and glucose metabolism indexes [fasting plasma glucose (FPG), blood hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)]. We identified two pairs of metals associated with glucose metabolism indexes: cadmium and tungsten to HbA1c and barium and thallium to HOMA-IR. Then, the cross-validated kernel ensemble (CVEK) approach was applied to identify the specific nutrient group (nutrients) that interacted with the association. By using the CVEK model, we identified significant interactions between the energy-adjusted diet inflammatory index (E-DII) and cadmium, tungsten and barium (all P < 0.05); macro-nutrients and cadmium, tungsten and barium (all P < 0.05); minerals and cadmium, tungsten, barium and thallium (all P < 0.05); and A vitamins and thallium (P = 0.043). Furthermore, a lower E-DII, a lower intake of carbohydrates and phosphorus, and a higher consumption of magnesium seem to attenuate the positive association between metals and glucose metabolism indexes. Our finding identifying the nutrients that interact with non-essential heavy metals could provide a feasible nutritional guideline for the general population to protect against the adverse effects of non-essential heavy metals on glucose metabolism.

Tungsten oxide encapsulated phosphate-rich porous alginate composites for efficient U(VI) capture: Insights into synthesis, adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics

In this work, novel monoclinic tungsten oxide (WO3)-encapsulated phosphate-rich porous sodium alginate (PASA) microspherical hydrogel beads were prepared for efficient U(VI) capture. These macroporous and hollow beads were systematically characterized through XRD, FTIR, EDX-mapping, and SEM-EDS techniques. The O and P atoms in the PO and monoclinic WO3 offered inner-spherical complexation with U(VI). The in situ growth of WO3 played a significant role inside the phosphate-rich biopolymeric network to improve its chemical stability, specific surface area, adsorption capacity, and sorption rate. The phytic acid (PA) served for heteroatom doping and crosslinking. The encapsulated WO3 mass ratio was optimized in different composites, and WO3/PASA3 (the microspherical beads with a mass ratio of 30.0 % w/w) exhibited remarkable maximum sorption capacity qm (336.42 mg/g) computed through the best-fit Langmuir model (R2 ≈ 0.99) and rapid sorption equilibrium, teq (150 min). The isothermal sorption studies were conducted at different temperatures (298, 303, and 308 K) and thermodynamic parameters concluded that the process of U(VI) sorption using WO3/PASA3 is endothermic and feasible having ΔHo (8.19 kJ/mol), ΔGo (-20.75, -21.38, and - 21.86 kJ/mol) and proceeds with a minute increase in randomness ΔSo (0.09 kJ/mol.K). Tungsten oxide (WO3)-encapsulated phosphate-rich porous microspherical beads could be promising material for uranium removal.

A clinical solution for non-toxic 3D-printed photon blocks in external beam radiation therapy

PURPOSE

A well-known limitation of multi-leaf collimators is that they cannot easily form island blocks. This can be important in mantle region therapy. Cerrobend photon blocks, currently used for supplementary shielding, are labor-intensive and error-prone. To address this, an innovative, non-toxic, automatically manufactured photon block using 3D-printing technology is proposed, offering a patient-specific and accurate alternative.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The study investigates the development of patient-specific photon shielding blocks using 3D-printing for three different patient cases. A 3D-printed photon block shell filled with tungsten ball bearings (BBs) was designed to have similar dosimetric properties to Cerrobend standards. The generation of the blocks was automated using the Eclipse Scripting API and Python. Quality assurance was performed by comparing the expected and actual weight of the tungsten BBs used for shielding. Dosimetric and field geometry comparisons were conducted between 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks, utilizing ionization chambers, imaging, and field geometry analysis.

RESULTS

The quality assurance assessment revealed a -1.3% average difference in the mass of tungsten ball bearings for different patients. Relative dose output measurements for three patient-specific blocks in the blocked region agreed within 2% of each other. Against the Treatment Planning System (TPS), both 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks agreed within 2%. For each patient, 6 MV image profiles taken through the 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks agreed within 1% outside high gradient regions. Jaccard distance analysis of the MV images against the TPS planned images, found Cerrobend blocks to have 15.7% dissimilarity to the TPS, while that of the 3D-printed blocks was 6.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study validates a novel, efficient 3D-printing method for photon block creation in clinical settings. Despite potential limitations, the benefits include reduced manual labor, automated processes, and greater precision. It holds potential for widespread adoption in radiation therapy, furthering non-toxic radiation shielding.

[Association of metal/metalloids exposure with abnormal liver function among occupational population in a mining area of Hunan Province:a prospective study]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of metals/metalloids exposure with risk of liver disfunction among occupational population in Hunan Province, and to explore the potential dose-response relationship.

METHODS

In 2017, a mining area in Hunan Province was chosen as the research site, and eligible workers were recruited as study subjects. General demographic characteristics, levels of 23 metals/metalloids in plasma and urine, and liver function index(total bilirubin(TBIL), alanine amino transferase(ALT), globulin(GLB) and γ-glutamyl transferase(GGT)) were obtained by questionnaire, physical examination and laboratory tests. Participants were followed up in 2018, 2019 and 2020 respectively. Cox proportional risk model was used to evaluate the relationship between metal/metalloids exposure and risk of liver disfunction, and dose-response relationship curves were plotted by using the restricted cubic spline function.

RESULTS

A total of 891 employees were recruited in the study, 576(65.0%)were aged ≤45 years, 832(93.4%) were male and 530(59.5%) worked as smelters. After adjusting various factors such as age, gender, BMI, type of work, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, stress, medical history, exercise and tea consumption, positive correlations were found between plasma tungsten(HR=4.90, 95%CI 1.17-20.48) and urinary barium(HR=1.07, 95%CI 1.02-1.12) levels with abnormally elevated TBIL levels. Additionally, a significant association was observed between plasma thallium and the risk of elevated ALT levels(HR=11.15, 95%CI 1.97-63.29).

CONCLUSION

Plasma tungsten and thallium, along with barium found in urine, are risk factors for the development of abnormally elevated liver function indices in occupational groups.

Structural, photoluminescence, and optical characteristics of a Sm3+ -doped lead borate-strontium-tungsten glass system: Evaluation of Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters and radiative properties

In this study, the melt quenching approach is used to synthesize a lead borate-strontium-based glass system doped with samarium ions. Modifications in the glass network structure arising from the addition of various concentrations of Sm3+ ions were investigated via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. FTIR analysis revealed B-O-B bridges, BO3 , and BO4 units are present. UV-vis-NIR spectroscopic measurement was performed to study the optical absorption spectra. Optical constants such as optical bandgap energies, refractive indices, and other related parameters were evaluated. The lifetime fluorescence decay was measured and ranged between 1.04 and 1.88 ns. The photoluminescence spectra in the range 500-750 nm revealed four transitions from the ground state 6 G5/2 to the excited states 6 H5/2 , 6 H7/2 , 6 H9/2 and 6 H11/2 and J-O theory was utilized to study these optical transitions for Sm3+ ions. Calculations of the oscillator strengths and J-O intensity parameters were performed and the obtained J-O parameters followed the sequence Ω4  > Ω6  > Ω2 . The ratio O/R indicated a high lattice asymmetry around the samarium ions. The values of lifetimes and branching ratios for the fabricated samples emphasized their suitability to be used in laser applications. The current glass samples are good candidates for orange and red emission devices.

Influence on the release of arsenic and tungsten from sediment, and effect on other heavy metals and microorganisms by ceria nanoparticle capping

In this study, ceria nanoparticle (CNP) was used as a capping agent to investigate the efficiency and mechanism of simultaneously controlling the release of sediment internal Arsenic (As) and tungsten (W). The results of incubation experiment demonstrated that CNP capping reduced soluble As and W by 81.80% and 97.97% in overlying water, respectively; soluble As and W by 65.64% and 60.13% in pore water, respectively; and labile As and W in sediment by 45.20% and 53.20%, respectively. The main mechanism of CNP controlling sediment internal As and W was through adsorption via ligand exchange and inner-sphere complexation, as determined through adsorption experiments, XPS and FIRT spectra analysis. Besides, CNP also acted as an oxidant, facilitating the oxidation of AsⅢ to AsV and thereby enhancing the adsorption of soluble As. Additionally, sediment As and W fractions experiments demonstrated that the immobilization of As and W with CNP treatment via transforming mobile to stable fractions was another mechanism inhibiting sediment As and W release. The obtained significant positive correlation between soluble As/W and Fe/Mn, labile As/W and Fe/Mn indicated that iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) oxidation, influenced by CNP, serve as additional mechanisms. Moreover, Fe redox plays a crucial role in controlling internal As and W, while Mn redox plays a more significant role in controlling As compared to W. Meanwhile, CNP capping effectively prevented the release of As and W by reducing the activity of microorganisms that degrade Fe-bound As and W and reduced the release risk of V, Cr, Co, Ni, and Zn from sediments. Overall, this study proved that CNP was a suitable capping agent for simultaneously controlling the release of As and W from sediment.

Associations between metals and metabolomic profiles related to diabetes among adults in a rural region

INTRODUCTION

Exposure to metals is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Potential mechanisms for metals-T2D associations involve biological processes including oxidative stress and disruption of insulin-regulated glucose uptake. In this study, we assessed whether associations between metal exposure and metabolite profiles relate to biological pathways linked to T2D.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used data from 29 adults rural Colorado residents enrolled in the San Luis Valley Diabetes Study. Urinary concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, lead, manganese, and tungsten were measured. Metabolic effects were evaluated using untargeted metabolic profiling, which included 61,851 metabolite signals detected in serum. We evaluated cross-sectional associations between metals and metabolites present in at least 50% of samples. Primary analyses adjusted urinary heavy metal concentrations for creatinine. Metabolite outcomes associated with each metal exposure were evaluated using pathway enrichment to investigate potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between metals and T2D.

RESULTS

Participants had a mean age of 58.5 years (standard deviation = 9.2), 48.3% were female, 48.3% identified as Hispanic/Latino, 13.8% were current smokers, and 65.5% had T2D. Of the detected metabolites, 455 were associated with at least one metal, including 42 associated with arsenic, 22 with cadmium, 10 with cobalt, 313 with lead, 66 with manganese, and two with tungsten. The metabolic features were linked to 24 pathways including linoleate metabolism, butanoate metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. Several of these pathways have been previously associated with T2D, and our results were similar when including only participants with T2D.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the hypothesis that metals exposure may be associated with biological processes related to T2D, including amino acid, co-enzyme, and sugar and fatty acid metabolism. Insight into biological pathways could influence interventions to prevent adverse health outcomes due to metal exposure.

[Wolfram-like syndrome: a case report]

Different from classical autosomal recessive Wolfram syndrome, Wolfram-like syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by a heterozygous mutation in the WFS1 gene. In this case, a 7-year-old male child presented to the eye clinic due to vision loss that could not be corrected, discovered during a routine examination. The child had experienced hearing impairment since early childhood, leading to cochlear implantation. Ophthalmic examination revealed optic disc atrophy in both eyes. Optical coherence tomography imaging demonstrated a distinctive thickening of the outer plexiform layer with abnormal layering, characteristic of a single mutation in the WFS1 gene. Subsequent genetic testing identified a de novo heterozygous missense mutation c.2051C>T (p.A684V) in the WFS1 gene, which ultimately led to the diagnosis of Wolfram-like syndrome.

Leaching of heavy metals from tungsten mining tailings: A case study based on static and kinetic leaching tests

Heavy metal (HM) leaching from tungsten mine tailings is a serious environmental risk. In this study, we assess the HM pollution level of tungsten tailings, determine the HM leaching patterns and mechanisms, and estimate the HM fluxes from a tailings reservoir. The results showed that the comprehensive pollution index (CRSi) values that decreased in order of the HM pollution levels in the tailings were cadmium (Cd) > tungsten (W) > lead (Pb) > copper (Cu) = zinc (Zn) > arsenic (As) > manganese (Mn). This result indicated that Cd, W, and Pb were priority pollutants in tailings. The Res fraction of all HMs was greater than 50%. Pb and Cd had similar species fractions with high Exc fractions, and tungsten had a considerable proportion of the Wat fraction. The general acid neutralizing capacity (GANC) test divides the leaching process of HMs into two stages, and each of stage is affected by different mechanisms. A neutral environment promoted tungsten leaching in the column leching test, while an acidic environment promoted Cd and Pb leaching. In addition, the pH effect was more obvious in the early stage. The kinetic fitting results showed that the second-order dynamic model well simulated the leaching of W, Pb, and Cd in most cases. Based on column kinetic leaching test results and tailings parameters, the annual W, Pb, and Cd fluxes were estimated to be 6.35 × 108, 1.3288 × 109, and 1.012 × 108 mg/year, respectively. The above results can guide the environmental management of tungsten tailing reservoirs, such as selecting suitable repair materials and estimating repair service times.

Preparation of high-strength photochromic alginate fibers based on the study of flame-retardant properties

Color-changing fibers have attracted much attention for their wide applications in camouflage, security warnings, and anti-counterfeiting. The inorganic color-changing material tungsten trioxide (WO3) has been widely investigated for its good stability, controllability, and ease of synthesis. In this study, photochromic alginate fibers (WO3@Ca-Alg) were prepared by incorporating UV-responsive hybrid tungsten trioxide nanoparticles in the fiber production process. The prepared photochromic alginate fibers changed from white to dark blue after 30 min of UV irradiation and returned to their original color after 64 h. It can be seen that WO3@Ca-Alg has the advantage of long color duration. The strength of this fiber reached 2.61 cN/dtex and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) was 40.9 %, which indicates that the fiber exhibited mechanical resistance and flame-retardant properties. After the cross-linking of WO3@Ca-Alg by sodium tetraborate, a new core-shell structure was generated, which was able to encapsulate tungsten trioxide in it, thus reducing the amount of tungsten trioxide loss, and its salt and washing resistance was greatly improved. This photochromic alginate fiber can be mass produced and spun into yarn.

Simultaneous immobilization of sediment internal phosphorus, arsenic and tungsten by lanthanum carbonate capping

In this study, lanthanum carbonate (LC) was selected as a capping agent to examine its effectiveness in immobilizing sediment internal phosphorus (P), arsenic (As) and tungsten (W). With a 180-day incubation experiment, it was determined that LC capping efficiently reduced the concentrations of soluble reactive P (SRP), soluble As and soluble W in pore water, with the highest reduction rate of 83.39%, 56.21% and 68.52%, respectively. The primary mechanisms involved in the adsorption of P, As and W by LC were precipitation reactions and ligand exchange. Additionally, P, As and W were immobilized by LC capping through the transformation of fractions from mobile and less stable forms to more stable forms. Furthermore, LC capping led to an increase in the Eh value, which promoted the oxidation of soluble Fe (Ⅱ) and soluble Mn. The significantly positive correlation and synchronized variations observed between SRP, soluble As, soluble W, and soluble Fe (II) indicated that the effects of LC on Fe redox played a crucial role in immobilizing sediment internal P, As and W. However, the oxidation of Mn, promoted by LC, played a more significant role in immobilizing sediment internal As than P and W. These effects resulted in LC capping achieving the highest reduction of SRP, soluble As and soluble W flux at 145.22, 22.19, and 0.58 μg m-2d-1. It is of note that LC capping did not lead to an elevated release hazard of Co, Ni, Cu, and Pb, barring Cd. Besides, LC capping did not modify the entire microbial communities in the sediment, but altered the proportional representation of specific microorganisms. Generally, LC has potential as a capping agent capable of simultaneously immobilizing sediment internal P, As and W.

A disposable sensor based on one-pot synthesized tungsten oxide nanostructure-modified screen printed electrodes for selective detection of dopamine and uric acid

Here, screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) were modified with ultrafine and mainly mono-disperse sea urchin-like tungsten oxide (SUWO3) nanostructures synthesized by a simple one-pot hydrothermal method for non-enzymatic detection of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) in synthetic urine. Sea urchin-like nanostructures were clearly observed in scanning electron microscope images and WO3 composition was confirmed with XRD, Raman, FTIR and UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Modification of SPCEs with SUWO3 nanostructures via the drop-casting method clearly reduced the Rct value of the electrodes, lowered the ∆Ep and enhanced the DA oxidation current due to high electrocatalytic activity. As a result, SUWO3/SPCEs enabled highly sensitive non-enzymatic detection of DA (LOD: 51.4 nM and sensitivity: 127 µA mM-1 cm-2) and UA (LOD: 253 nM and sensitivity: 55.9 µA mM-1 cm-2) at low concentration. Lastly, SUWO3/SPCEs were tested with synthetic urine, in which acceptable recoveries for both molecules (94.02-105.8%) were obtained. Given the high selectivity, the sensor has the potential to be used for highly sensitive simultaneous detection of DA and UA in real biological samples.

Achieving One Part Per Billion Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Level Detection through Optimizing Composition and Crystallinity of Gold-Decorated Tungsten Trioxide (Au-WO3) Nanofibers

As a common environmental pollutant and an important breath biomarker for several diseases, it is essential to develop a hydrogen sulfide gas sensor with a low-ppb level detection limit to prevent harmful gas exposure and allow early diagnoses of diseases in low-resource settings. Gold doped/decorated tungsten trioxide (Au-WO3) nanofibers with various compositions and crystallinities were synthesized to optimize H2S-sensing performance. Systematically experimental results demonstrated the ability to detect 1 ppb H2S with a response value (Rair/Rgas) of 2.01 using a 5 at % Au-WO3 nanofibers with average grain sizes of around 15 nm. Additionally, energy barrier difference of sensing materials in air and nitrogen (ΔEb) and power law exponent (n) were determined to be 0.36 eV and 0.7, respectively, at 450 °C indicating that O- is predominately ionic oxygen species and adsorption of O- significantly altered the Schottky barrier between the grain. Such quantitative analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of H2S detection mechanism.

Tuning commensurability in twisted van der Waals bilayers

Moiré superlattices based on van der Waals bilayers1-4 created at small twist angles lead to a long wavelength pattern with approximate translational symmetry. At large twist angles (θt), moiré patterns are, in general, incommensurate except for a few discrete angles. Here we show that large-angle twisted bilayers offer distinctly different platforms. More specifically, by using twisted tungsten diselenide bilayers, we create the incommensurate dodecagon quasicrystals at θt = 30° and the commensurate moiré crystals at θt = 21.8° and 38.2°. Valley-resolved scanning tunnelling spectroscopy shows disparate behaviours between moiré crystals (with translational symmetry) and quasicrystals (with broken translational symmetry). In particular, the K valley shows rich electronic structures exemplified by the formation of mini-gaps near the valence band maximum. These discoveries demonstrate that bilayers with large twist angles offer a design platform to explore moiré physics beyond those formed with small twist angles.

Tungsten-based Lindqvist and Keggin type polyoxometalates as efficient photocatalysts for degradation of toxic chemical dyes

Photocatalytic dye degradation employing polyoxometalates (POMs) has been a research focus for several years. We report the facile synthesis of tungsten-based Lindqvist and Keggin-type POMs that degrade toxic chemical dyes, methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB), respectively. The Lindqvist POM, sodium hexatungstate, Na2W6O19, degrades MO under 100 W UV light irradiation within 15 min, whereas the Keggin POM, Ag4PW11VO40, degrades MB under 20 W visible light source within 180 min. The effect of various operating parameters, such as photocatalyst concentration, pH, time, and initial dye concentration, were assessed in the degradation of both dyes. The photoelectrochemical performance of the as-synthesized polyoxometalates shows that the Ag4PW11VO40 shows 2.4 times higher photocurrent density than Na2W6O19 at a potential of 0.9 V vs. Ag/AgCl. Electrochemical impedance analysis reveals that Ag4PW11VO40 exhibits much lower charge transfer resistance as compared to Na2W6O19, which indicates facile charge transfer at the electrode-electrolyte interface. Further Mott-Schottky measurements reveal that both the catalysts possess n-type semiconductivity and the charge carrier concentration of Ag4PW11VO40 (5.89 × 1019 cm-3) is 1.4 times higher as compared to Na2W6O19 (4.25 × 1019 cm-3). This work offers a new paradigm for designing polyoxometalates suitable for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes.

The association between levels of samarium, hafnium, tungsten and rhenium in seminal plasma and the risk of idiopathic oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia in men of childbearing age

Oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (OAT) is a global public health problem, which affects 30% men of childbearing age. Meanwhile, with the rapid development of industry and economy, the contents of rare earth elements (REEs) in the environment are increasing. However, little is known about the associations between REEs levels and OAT risk. To evaluate the associations between the levels of four REEs (samarium (Sm), hafnium (Hf), tungsten (W), rhenium (Re)) in seminal plasma and OAT risk, from October 2021 to November 2022, semen samples from 924 men of childbearing age (460 controls and 464 cases) were collected from the reproductive center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to measure the levels of Sm, Hf, Re and W in seminal plasma. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was conducted to explore the joint effects of levels of four REEs in seminal plasma on the risk of OAT and select the one exerting a major role; generalized linear regression models (GLM) with log link function were employed to investigate the association of every REE level in seminal plasma and OAT risk; sankey diagram and linear regression models were utilized to describe the associations between the levels of four REEs and the indexes of sperm quality. The levels of four REEs in seminal plasma were higher in the case group than levels in the control group (pSm = 0.011, pHf = 0.040, pW = 0.062, pRe = 0.001, respectively). In BKMR analysis, the OAT risk increased when the overall levels of four REEs were higher than their 55th percentile compared to all of them at their 50th percentile, and Re level played a major role in the association. Additionally, Re level in seminal plasma was positively associated with  the OAT risk in the single element model after adjustment of covariates (medium vs. low: OR (95% CI) = 1.55 (1.10, 2.18); high vs. low: OR (95% CI) = 1.69 (1.18, 2.42)). Lastly, the sankey diagram and linear regression models revealed that Sm level was negatively associated with the PR%, total sperm count and total progressively motile sperm count; Hf level was negatively associated with the PR%; W and Re levels were negatively associated with the PR% and total motility, and Re level was positively associated with abnormal morphology rate. Men of childbearing age with OAT had higher levels of Sm, Hf and Re in seminal plasma than those in the control group. An increasing trend for the OAT risk was observed with an increase in mixture levels of Sm, Hf, W and Re, and Re exposure level played a major role in the association whether in BKMR model or single element model. Additionally, the levels of these four REEs were negatively associated with the indexes of sperm quality.

Separation and recovery of arsenic, germanium and tungsten from toxic coal ash from lignite by sequential vacuum distillation with disulphide

Large amount of coal ash is produced as industrial waste during the electricity generation through the combustion of lignite. Toxic elements arsenic exists in the coal ash, which hinders the subsequent recycling processes. Moreover, coal ash could be recycled further to retrieve scattered metals germanium and tungsten. It is believed that traditional recycling methods present barriers to scaled application, especially serious secondary pollution, such as toxic residue and waste liquid. In this work, a novel sequential vacuum distillation with disulphide method is proposed to separate arsenic, germanium and tungsten from coal ash. First, arsenic can be volatilized completely out of the reaction system at temperatures below 550 °C. Subsequently, Ge and W volatilized in the form of sulfide in the presence of Na2S2O3. The optimal condition was 1050 °C, the mass ratio of 0.6 with reaction a pressure of 1 Pa and a time duration of 120 min demonstrated the best evaporation ratio. For coal fly ash, chemical species As2S3, GeS, and WOx (x < 3)/WS2 were the main condensed products. For coal bottom ash, As2S3, GeS, and WO3/WS2 were dominant chemical components. Mechanisms for the process of release and evaporation of As, Ge, and W from coal ash, vacuum reaction, evaporation, and condensation were analyzed. In summary, the vacuum distillation method deserves to be further developed as it provides an eco-friendly method to recycle coal ash.

Image-Guided Deployment and Monitoring of a Novel Tungsten Nanoparticle-Infused Radiopaque Absorbable Inferior Vena Cava Filter in a Swine Model

PURPOSE

To improve radiopacity of radiolucent absorbable poly-p-dioxanone (PPDO) inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs) and demostrate their effectiveness in clot-trapping ability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tungsten nanoparticles (WNPs) were incorporated along with polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymers to increase the surface adsorption of WNPs. The physicochemical and in vitro and in vivo imaging properties of PPDO IVCFs with WNPs with single-polymer PHB (W-P) were compared with those of WNPs with polymer blends consisting of PHB, PCL, and PVP (W-PB).

RESULTS

In vitro analyses using PPDO sutures showed enhanced radiopacity with either W-P or W-PB coating, without compromising the inherent physicomechanical properties of the PPDO sutures. W-P- and W-PB-coated IVCFs were deployed successfully into the inferior vena cava of pig models with monitoring by fluoroscopy. At the time of deployment, W-PB-coated IVCFs showed a 2-fold increase in radiopacity compared to W-P-coated IVCFs. Longitudinal monitoring of in vivo IVCFs over a 12-week period showed a drastic decrease in radiopacity at Week 3 for both filters.

CONCLUSIONS

The results highlight the utility of nanoparticles (NPs) and polymers for enhancing radiopacity of medical devices. Different methods of incorporating NPs and polymers can still be explored to improve the effectiveness, safety, and quality of absorbable IVCFs.

Removal of toluene via non-thermal plasma generated by applying rare-earth tungsten electrode and nanosecond pulsed power supply

The objective of this investigation is to evaluate the characteristics associated with degradation of toluene through the utilization of non-thermal plasma (NTP) generated via application of a low-work-function electrode and nanosecond pulsed power supply. Initially, a comparative analysis is made between toluene removal efficiency utilizing the low-work-function electrode and that achieved with the conventional stainless-steel electrode. The outcomes demonstrate that NTP generated by the low-work-function electrode exhibits markedly superior removal efficiency for toluene in comparison to the stainless-steel electrode operating at the same voltage. Subsequently, the impacts of voltage, pulse frequency, and initial concentration of toluene on the removal efficiency and production of by-products are investigated. It is found that as the voltage and frequency increase, the removal efficiency also increases, and a maximum toluene removal efficiency of 87.2% is achieved at a voltage of 12,000 V and pulse frequency of 2000 Hz. The removal efficiency first increases and then decreases with increasing toluene initial concentration. The investigation also finds that energy yield is negatively correlated with voltage and pulse frequency and positively correlated with the initial concentration. Finally, the reaction products were subjected to quantitative analysis using GC-MS. Based on the analysis results, potential reaction pathways are inferred.

Tungsten and Titanium dioxide filled VMQ polymer composites-a new lead free & flexible gamma ray-shielding materials

Flexible & lead-free gamma-ray-shielding composites were prepared using Vinyl Methyl Silicone (VMQ) matrix with Tungsten (W) and Titanium dioxide (TiO2) as fillers. The VMQ composites filled with 30 Phr (parts per hundred rubber) TiO2 and 0-70 Phr W were prepared by two-roll mill method. The dispersion of the filler particles in the composite matrix was analysed using Scanning Electron Microscope. Gamma ray shielding properties were studied in the energy range of 80 to 1170 keV using NaI(Tl) scintillation spectrometer. The mass attenuation coefficient (μm) of the prepared composites was found to increase with increasing concentration of W. Mass attenuation coefficients of 30 Phr W composites at gamma-ray energies of 356 and 1170 keV were found to be 0.1444 and 0.0644 cm2 g-1, while those of 50 Phr W composite were 0.1396 and 0.0707 cm2 g-1, respectively. The half value layer values of all the samples were found to decrease with increase in tungsten concentration. To appreciate the shielding ability of the prepared composites, comparison was made with the metal lead. The results show that addition of W into VMQ enhances the attenuation, whereas tensile strength and elongation at break reduces. The Shore A hardness of the W/TiO2/VMQ composites had a maximum value of 71 and the composites also prove to possess good thermal stability. Hence, the present study shows that the VMQ based W-TiO2 rubber composites serve to shield gamma radiations in medical applications and are considered as environmental friendly.

Closed-loop recovery of molybdenum and value-added reuse of tungsten from alloy waste in additive manufacturing

As metal additive manufacturing (MAM) technology is booming in the aerospace sector, alternatives to the traditional production methods of metals such as mining, processing, and refining with severe emissions are urgently needed. This study proposed a closed-loop route for efficient recovery of molybdenum (Mo) and value-added reuse of tungsten (W) from Cr-Co-Ni-Mo-W alloy waste in MAM. The results showed that the leaching efficiency of Mo and W reached 99.3% and 99.9%, respectively, using the dual chemical-physical means of mixed-alkali roasting and leaching by microwave heating, while the discharge of waste liquor containing Cr6+ was reduced. Leaching kinetic studies revealed that the metal leaching process was controlled by chemical reaction mechanism. Moreover, the 10%N1923 (primary amine)-5%TRPO (tri-alkyl phosphine oxide)-kerosene extraction system exhibited a synergistic extraction effect on Mo and W. After purification, Mo was recovered as Mo powder for MAM. Simultaneously, the recovered product of W, MnWO4, was applied as a photocatalytic material with excellent degradation of methylene blue dye. Ultimately, the proposed method obtained recovery efficiencies of 98.4% and 99.3% for Mo and W, respectively, achieving efficient and environmentally-friendly reuse of these key metals.

Tungsten-based polyoxometalate nanoclusters with remarkable reactive oxygen species-scavenging activity efficiently quenched luminol-based electrochemiluminescence for sensitive detection of Her-2

This study aimed to develop a quenching-type electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunosensor for human epidermal growth factor receptor (Her-2) detection. Firstly, Pd/NiFeOx nanoflowers decorated by in situ formation of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and 2D Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets were synthesized (AuPd/NiFeOx/Ti3C2) as carriers to load luminol and primary antibodies. Impressively, AuPd/NiFeOx/Ti3C2 with excellent peroxidase-like activity could accelerate the decomposition of the coreactant H2O2 generating more reactive oxygen species (ROSs) under the working potential from 0 to 0.8 V, resulting in highly efficient ECL emission at 435-nm wavelengths. The introduction of tungsten-based polyoxometalate nanoclusters (W-POM NCs) which exhibit remarkable ROSs-scavenging activity as secondary antibody labels could improve the sensitivity of immunosensors. The ZnO nanoflowers were employed to encapsulate minute-sized W-POM NCs, and polydopamine was self-polymerized on the surface of Zn(W-POM)O to anchor secondary antibodies. The mechanism of the quenching strategy was explored and it was found that W-POM NCs could consume ROSs by the redox reaction of W5+ resulting in W6+. The proposed ECL immunosensor displayed a wide linear response range of 0.1 pg·mL-1 to 50 ng·mL-1, and a low detection limit of 0.036 pg mL-1 (S/N = 3). The recoveries ranged from 93.9 to 99.4%, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was lower than 10%. This finding is promising for the design of detecting new protein biomarkers.

Tungsten-based nanoparticles as contrast agents for liver tumor detection using dual-energy computed tomography

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) is a commonly used imaging technique for detecting and diagnosing liver cancer. Currently, it is performed using clinically approved iodinated small molecule contrast agents (CAs). However, these iodinated CAs have several drawbacks, including sub-optimal contrast generation and contra-indication in patients with renal insufficiency. Herein, we synthesized tungsten-based CAs (i.e., WO3-x NPs) with excellent biocompatibility and investigated their effectiveness in DECT imaging. WO3-x NPs significantly enhanced the contrast between liver tumors and normal liver tissues as indicated by in vivo DECT imaging. Furthermore, WO3-x NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility and minimal systemic toxicity. This study introduces a novel class of CAs for DECT and presents a promising method for accurate early diagnosis of liver tumors.

Simulation study of a novel small animal FLASH irradiator (SAFI) with integrated inverse-geometry CT based on circularly distributed kV X-ray sources

Ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) radiotherapy (RT) or FLASH-RT can potentially reduce normal tissue toxicity. A small animal irradiator that can deliver FLASH-RT treatments similar to clinical RT treatments is needed for pre-clinical studies of FLASH-RT. We designed and simulated a novel small animal FLASH irradiator (SAFI) based on distributed x-ray source technology. The SAFI system comprises a distributed x-ray source with 51 focal spots equally distributed on a 20 cm diameter ring, which are used for both FLASH-RT and onboard micro-CT imaging. Monte Carlo simulation was performed to estimate the dosimetric characteristics of the SAFI treatment beams. The maximum dose rate, which is limited by the power density of the tungsten target, was estimated based on finite-element analysis (FEA). The maximum DC electron beam current density is 2.6 mA/mm2, limited by the tungsten target's linear focal spot power density. At 160 kVp, 51 focal spots, each with a dimension of [Formula: see text] mm2 and 10° anode angle, can produce up to 120 Gy/s maximum DC irradiation at the center of a cylindrical water phantom. We further demonstrate forward and inverse FLASH-RT planning, as well as inverse-geometry micro-CT with circular source array imaging via numerical simulations.

Associations between urinary heavy metals and anxiety among adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007-2012

BACKGROUND

Few studies have investigated the associations between heavy metals and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between single and combined exposure to heavy metals and anxiety.

METHODS

This study employed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2012. Anxiety was assessed by patients self-reporting the number of anxious days per month. First, we evaluated the associations between 10 heavy metals single exposure and anxiety by multivariable logistic regression. We then selected 5 heavy metals (cadmium, antimony, cobalt, tungsten, and uranium) for further analysis by elastic net regression. Subsequently, principal component analysis (PCA), weighted quantile regression (WQS), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were utilized to evaluate the associations between 5 heavy metals co-exposure and anxiety.

RESULTS

This study included 4512 participants, among whom 1206 participants were in an anxiety state. Urinary cadmium and antimony were separately related to an increased risk of anxiety (p for trend <0.01 and < 0.01, respectively). In PCA analysis, PC1 was associated with an increased risk of anxiety (p for trend <0.001). In WQS analysis, the positive WQS index was substantially linked with the risk of anxiety (OR (95%CI): 1.23 (1.04,1.39)). In BKMR analysis, the overall effects of co-exposure to heavy metals were positively connected with anxiety.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified a positive correlation between individual exposure to cadmium and antimony and the risk of anxiety. Additionally, the co-exposure to cadmium, antimony, cobalt, tungsten, and uranium was associated with an increased risk of anxiety.

Sonication strategy for anchoring single metal atom oxides (W, Cu, Co) on CeO2-rGO for boosting electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction

In the field of electrocatalysis, single-atomic-layer tungsten, copper, and cobalt oxide on CeO2, ethylene diamine (ED) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported materials shows tremendous potential. Despite the enormous interest in single metal atom oxide (SMAO) catalysts, it is still very difficult to directly convert readily available bulk metal oxide into single atom oxide. It is crucial and tough to create high performance materials for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in an alkaline environment. Herein, a single tungsten, copper and cobalt atom oxide (SMAO) anchored on the CeO2 atomic layer and overall components deposited on the rGO (rGO-ED-CeO2-WCuCo) is prepared through a one-pot sonication technique. The presence of SMAO is identified by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) imaging. The electrocatalytic performance of final rGO-ED-CeO2-WCuCo-30 nanocomposite for the OER in 1 M KOH electrolyte is evidenced by providing low overpotential of 283 mV at 10 mA cm-2. The Tafel slope for OER using rGO-ED-CeO2-WCuCo-30 electrocatalysts is 57.03 mV dec-1. The electrocatalytic activity of rGO-ED-CeO2-WCuCo-30 nanocomposites for OER was noticeably increased when compared to bare CeO2 nanorods (401 mV), rGO-ED-CeO2-WCo-30 (345 mV), rGO-ED-CeO2-WCu-30 (340 mV) and rGO-ED-CeO2-WCuCo-20 (321 mV) samples.

Arabidopsis transcription factor WRKY45 confers cadmium tolerance via activating PCS1 and PCS2 expression

Cadmium (Cd) has long been recognized as toxic pollutant to crops worldwide. The biosynthesis of glutathione-dependent phytochelatin (PC) plays crucial roles in the detoxification of Cd in plants. However, its regulatory mechanism remains elusive. Here, we revealed that Arabidopsis transcription factor WRKY45 confers Cd tolerance via promoting the expression of PC synthesis-related genes PCS1 and PCS2, respectively. Firstly, we found that Cd stress induces the transcript levels of WRKY45 and its protein abundance. Accordingly, in contrast to wild type Col-0, the increased sensitivity to Cd is observed in wrky45 mutant, while overexpressing WRKY45 plants are more tolerant to Cd. Secondly, quantitative real-time PCR revealed that the expression of AtPCS1 and AtPCS2 is stimulated in overexpressing WRKY45 plants, but decreased in wrky45 mutant. Thirdly, WRKY45 promotes the expression of PCS1 and PCS2, electrophoresis mobility shift assay analysis uncovered that WRKY45 directly binds to the W-box cis-element of PCS2 promoter. Lastly, the overexpression of WRKY45 in Col-0 leads to more accumulation of PCs in Arabidopsis, and the overexpression of PCS1 or PCS2 in wrky45 mutant plants rescues the phenotypes induced by Cd stress. In conclusion, our results show that AtWRKY45 positively regulates Cd tolerance in Arabidopsis via activating PCS1 and PCS2 expression.

A novel tungsten diselenide nanoparticles for enhanced photocatalytic performance of Cr (VI) reduction and ciprofloxacin (CIP)

Nanoparticles (NPs) fabrication is a significant approach to enhance the visible light response of photocatalysts, to realize inexpensive and more harmful compound removal, at larger scale. The poor electrons and holes separation capability and low light activity of bulk materials can be notably enhanced through developing NPs. From photocatalytic investigation, better performance was received in the tungsten diselenide (WSe2) NPs than that in bare WSe2, exhibiting the action of restrained recombination of charge carriers in the NPs. The photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction efficiency of WSe2 NPs is 2.7 folds greater than that by bare WSe2. On the other hand, the photocatalytic efficiency follows the order of nano WSe2-3 > nano WSe2-2 > nano WSe2-1 > bare WSe2, nano WSe2-3 is nearly 2.7 folds greater than that of bare WSe2. The results imply the fabrication of WSe2 NPs and it possesses improved visible light utilization. The proposed WSe2 NPs have merged with the three aspects of photocatalytic capability including the visible light activity, the valid separation of photo-response charge carriers and enough surface active sites owing to the nanoscale formed. This research endows conduct on the potential style of NPs for photo-response water environmental remediation.

Surface Modulation of Co3O4 Yolk-Shell Spheres with Tungsten Doping for Superior Acetone Sensitivity

This study introduces a promising technique to enhance the sensitivity of p-type semiconductors in gas-sensing applications. By utilizing a glycerate-templated synthesis approach, a unique hierarchical W-doped Co3O4 yolk-shell sphere (YSS)-based sensor was developed, exhibiting exceptional sensitivity toward acetone gas. The synthesized YSSs feature a yolk-shell structure with a diameter of approximately 500 nm and a large surface area of 117.46 m2/g, which allows for efficient gas interaction and high sensitivity toward acetone gas. Furthermore, the incorporation of tungsten (W), a non-noble metal, as a dopant significantly enhances the surface activity of Co3O4, leading to a remarkably high response of 16.5 toward 5 ppm acetone, which is substantially higher than that of the pure Co3O4 YSS (2.9). The W-doped Co3O4 YSS also exhibits excellent selectivity to other interfering gases and the ability to detect ultralow concentrations of acetone as low as 10 ppb. The proposed non-noble metal doping strategy presents a practical solution for enhancing the sensitivity and selectivity of p-type semiconductor-based gas sensors. This approach holds great potential for practical gas-sensing applications due to their affordability and abundance, making them a cost-effective and versatile alternative to noble metal-catalyzed sensors.

The design and characterization of a novel dynamic collimator system for synchrotron radiotherapy applications

BACKGROUND

Novel synchrotron radiotherapy techniques are currently limited to using prefabricated beam-limiting blocks for field definition. For large experiments, a single square tungsten block is often used for every treatment since conformal blocks are both patient and field specific, and require long lead times for fabrication. Future synchrotron radiotherapy treatments would benefit from a dynamic collimator system.

PURPOSE

We developed and tested a novel collimator design for use on the Imaging and Medical Beamline (IMBL) at the ANSTO Australian Synchrotron.

METHODS

The maximum usable beam size on IMBL is 50-mm wide by 3-mm tall. Given the beam shape, targets must be vertically scanned through the synchrotron beam to cover the target volume. To shape the beam, a novel collimator design was developed, consisting of two semi-circular leaves made from 4-mm thick tungsten sheets, with each leaf capable of both vertical and horizontal movement. A software model was created to optimize motor trajectories and generate deliverable treatment fields. A series of geometric field shapes and clinical target volumes were delivered using the collimator and imaged with a digital imaging detector. Four similarity metrics (volumetric similarity, DICE, and the average and maximum Hausdorff distances) were used to measure differences between the input and planned fields, and the planned and delivered fields.

RESULTS

Differences between input and planned fields increased with delivery speed, and were worse for rectangular and square fields compared to circular fields. However, the differences between planned and delivered fields were small, where the maximum average deviation between the fields was 0.25 mm (one pixel). Field repeatability was consistent with no difference (σ = 0 for all metrics) observed in consecutively delivered fields.

CONCLUSIONS

We have successfully built and demonstrated a novel collimator for synchrotron radiotherapy applications on IMBL. Several design improvements have been highlighted and will be addressed in future revisions the collimator. However, in its current state, the collimator enables dynamically delivered conformal treatment fields to be utilized on IMBL, and is ready to support the forthcoming canine treatments on IMBL.

An improved Fourier Ptychography algorithm for ultrasonic array imaging

Inspired by the optical imaging algorithm, the Fourier Ptychography (FP) algorithm is adopted to improve the resolution of ultrasonic array imaging. In the FP algorithm, the steady-state spectrum is utilized to recover the high-resolution ultrasonic images. Meanwhile, the parameters of FP algorithm are empirical, which can affect the imaging quality of ultrasonic array. Then the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used to optimize the parameters of FP algorithm to further improve the imaging quality of ultrasonic array. The tungsten imaging experiments and pig eye imaging experiments are conducted to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed algorithm. In addition, the proposed algorithm and the coherent wave superposition (CWS) algorithm are both based on single plane wave (SPW) algorithms and they are then compared. The results show that the CWS algorithm and FP algorithm have good longitudinal and lateral resolutions, respectively. The particle swarm optimization-based FP (PSOFP) imaging algorithm has both excellent lateral and longitudinal resolutions. The average lateral resolution of PSOFP imaging algorithm is improved by 34.47% compared with CWS imaging algorithm in the tungsten wires experiments, and the lateral boundary structure width of the lens is improved by 49.48% in the pig eye experiments. The proposed algorithm can effectively improve the ultrasonic imaging quality for medical application.

Ultrasonically assisted hydrothermal synthesis of tungsten(VI) oxide-TiO2 nanocomposites for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of non-narcotic drug paracetamol under natural solar light: insights into degradation pathway, mechanism, and toxicity assessment

Photocatalytic degradation of pharmaceutical residues through natural solar radiation represents a green and economical treatment process. In this work, ultrasonically assisted hydrothermal synthesis of WO3-TiO2 nanocomposite was carried out at 140-150 °C for 5 h and calcinated at 600 °C. The structural and optical properties of the synthesized material were investigated using techniques like XRD, FESEM/EDX, HRTEM, BET surface area, UV-DRS optical analysis, and photocurrent response. The band gap of TiO2 was successfully reduced from 3.0 to 2.54 eV and thus making it effective under solar light. Complete degradation of paracetamol (50 ppm and natural pH of 6.5) was achieved in 3.5 h under natural sunlight at catalyst dose of 0.5 g/l. The extent of mineralization was evaluated by measuring the COD reduction. Based on the degradation products identified by GC-MS/LC-TOF-MS, the degradation process under natural solar-light could be interpreted to initiate through OH. radical species. The toxicity removal of the treated paracetamol solution under natural solar-light was evaluated by the seed germination test using Spinacia oleracea seeds and exhibited 66.70% seed germination, confirming the reduction in toxicity. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of the nanocomposite is attributed to the higher surface area, low rutile content, lower band gap, and incorporation of WO3, which led to an extended absorption range and a slower rate of electron-hole recombination. The technical insights presented in this research offer a feasible approach for utilizing natural solar light driven photocatalysis for wastewater treatment in an efficient and sustainable way. The proposed degradation pathway, and seed germination test (toxicity removal) of the treated paracetamol solution under natural sunlight, has not been previously evaluated.

A Fine-Scale and Minimally Invasive Marking Method for Use with Conventional Tungsten Microelectrodes

In neurophysiology, achieving precise correlation between physiological responses and anatomic structures is a significant challenge. Therefore, the accuracy of the electrode marking method is crucial. In this study, we describe a tungsten-deposition method, in which tungsten oxide is generated by applying biphasic current pulses to conventional tungsten electrodes. The electrical current used was 40-50 μA, which is similar to that used in electrical microstimulation experiments. The size of the markings ranged from 10 to 100 μm, corresponding to the size of the electrode tip, which is smaller than that of existing marking methods. Despite the small size of the markings, detection is easy as the marking appears in bright red under dark-field observation after Nissl staining. This marking technique resulted in low tissue damage and was maintained in vivo for at least two years. The feasibility of this method was tested in mouse and macaque brains.

Comparison of acute phase response in mice after inhalation and intratracheal instillation of molybdenum disulphide and tungsten particles

Inhalation studies are the gold standard for assessing the toxicity of airborne materials. They require considerable time, special equipment, and large amounts of test material. Intratracheal instillation is considered a screening and hazard assessment tool as it is simple, quick, allows control of the applied dose, and requires less test material. The particle-induced pulmonary inflammation and acute phase response in mice caused by intratracheal instillation or inhalation of molybdenum disulphide or tungsten particles were compared. End points included neutrophil numbers in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, Saa3 mRNA levels in lung tissue and Saa1 mRNA levels in liver tissue, and SAA3 plasma protein. Acute phase response was used as a biomarker for the risk of cardiovascular disease. Intratracheal instillation of molybdenum disulphide or tungsten particles did not produce pulmonary inflammation, while molybdenum disulphide particles induced pulmonary acute phase response with both exposure methods and systemic acute phase response after intratracheal instillation. Inhalation and intratracheal instillation showed similar dose-response relationships for pulmonary and systemic acute phase response when molybdenum disulphide was expressed as dosed surface area. Both exposure methods showed similar responses for molybdenum disulphide and tungsten, suggesting that intratracheal instillation can be used for screening particle-induced acute phase response and thereby particle-induced cardiovascular disease.

Microstructure and mechanical behavior of cemented gold/tungsten mine tailings-crushed rock backfill: Effects of rock gradation and content

Without appropriate and responsible waste management in place, the cursory storage of tailings and waste rocks on the surface can cause devastating damage to the planet's ecosystems. To proactively manage or abolish the damage, some techniques such as mine backfill have been already used repeatedly in mines. Microstructure and strength behavior of cementitious tailings-crushed rock backfill (CTCRB) with gold/tungsten tailings and rock contents (e.g., 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) were conducted in this study by using both UCS (unconfined compressive strength) tests (e.g., peak strengths, stress-strain curves, failure modes) and SEM micro-graphs. Key conclusions were shown that: when gradation and content of crushed rock was considered as 1-3 mm and 50% respectively, the UCS value of gold tailings based backfills was 1.02 MPa. In contrast, the UCS value of tungsten mine tailings based backfills was 1.36 MPa when the amount of crushed rock within the filling matrix became 10%. Tungsten tailings based backfills were more sensitive to crushed rock gradation than gold tailings based backfills. CTCRB's stress-strain curvatures were up-concave in the step of pore compaction. With the increase in the content and gradation of crushed rock, tungsten tailings based backfills showed swelling and crushing in complete destruction. Tailings' particle size, crushed rock content and gradation utterly affected the failure modes of CTCRB. Ettringite/CSH gel was found to be the leading hydration materials in the backfill matrix. The micro-cracks within CTCRB specimens were unfavorably correlated with its UCS data. To conclude, this study's main outcomes could give a significant guide for CTCRB's industrial uses.

Combined exposure to multiple metals on hypertension in NHANES under four statistical models

Metals exposure has gained increasing attention in the hypertension prevention. However, previous studies have focused on the impacts of single or separated metals on hypertension, and the critical metals contributing to the prevalence of hypertension are still under discussion. We collected data from 5092 participants across three consecutive National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) circles (2011-2016). Weighted logistic regression, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, quantile-based g-computation (QGC), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) analyses were conducted to evaluate the combined and individual effects of 15 urinary metals, as well as to identify the critical metals on the development of hypertension. In our study, the weighted prevalence of hypertension was 37.9%, and the average age was 47.42 years. Manganese, uranium and tin were found as the independent risk factors for hypertension, while barium, lead, and thallium were found to have protective effects against hypertension. Lead, barium, tungsten, uranium, and tin were determined as critical elements for the prediction of hypertension. No significant interaction relationship was detected between multiple metals. There might be potential positive combined effects of urinary metal mixture on hypertension. Tungsten, uranium, and tin were positively associated with hypertension while lead and barium were negatively associated with hypertension. The underlying mechanisms of urinary metal exposure on the risk of hypertension deserve further investigations.

Development and characterization of a versatile mini-beam collimator for pre-clinical photon beam irradiation

BACKGROUND

Interest in spatial fractionation radiotherapy has exponentially increased over the last decade as a significant reduction of healthy tissue toxicity was observed by mini-beam irradiation. Published studies, however, mostly use rigid mini-beam collimators dedicated to their exact experimental arrangement such that changing the setup or testing new mini-beam collimator configurations becomes challenging and expensive.

PURPOSE

In this work, a versatile, low-cost mini-beam collimator was designed and manufactured for pre-clinical applications with X-ray beams. The mini-beam collimator enables variability of the full width at half maximum (FWHM), the center-to-center distance (ctc), the peak-to-valley dose ratio (PVDR), and the source-to-collimator distance (SCD).

METHODS

The mini-beam collimator is an in-house development, which was constructed of 10 ×  40 mm2 tungsten or brass plates. These metal plates were combined with 3D-printed plastic plates that can be stacked together in the desired order. A standard X-ray source was used for the dosimetric characterization of four different configurations of the collimator, including a combination of plastic plates of 0.5, 1, or 2 mm width, assembled with 1 or 2 mm thick metal plates. Irradiations were done at three different SCDs for characterizing the performance of the collimator. For the SCDs closer to the radiation source, the plastic plates were 3D-printed with a dedicated angle to compensate for the X-ray beam divergence, making it possible to study ultra-high dose rates of around 40 Gy/s. All dosimetric quantifications were performed using EBT-XD films. Additionally, in vitro studies with H460 cells were carried out.

RESULTS

Characteristic mini-beam dose distributions were obtained with the developed collimator using a conventional X-ray source. With the exchangeable 3D-printed plates, FWHM and ctc from 0.52 to 2.11 mm, and from 1.77 to 4.61 mm were achieved, with uncertainties ranging from 0.01% to 8.98%, respectively. The FWHM and ctc obtained with the EBT-XD films are in agreement with the design of each mini-beam collimator configuration. For dose rates in the order of several Gy/min, the highest PVDR of 10.09 ± 1.08 was achieved with a collimator configuration of 0.5 mm thick plastic plates and 2 mm thick metal plates. Exchanging the tungsten plates with the lower-density metal brass reduced the PVDR by approximately 50%. Also, increasing the dose rate to ultra-high dose rates was feasible with the mini-beam collimator, where a PVDR of 24.26 ± 2.10 was achieved. Finally, it was possible to deliver and quantify mini-beam dose distribution patterns in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

With the developed collimator, we achieved various mini-beam dose distributions that can be adjusted according to the needs of the user in regards to FWHM, ctc, PVDR and SCD, while accounting for beam divergence. Therefore, the designed mini-beam collimator may enable low-cost and versatile pre-clinical research on mini-beam irradiation.

The ratio of monocyte count and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol mediates the association between urinary tungsten and cardiovascular disease: a study from NHANES 2005-2018

Tungsten (W) is an emerging contaminant that can damage multiple systems in humans. However, studies of its effects on cardiovascular disease (CVD) are limited. The monocyte count to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) is a composite inflammatory index of great concern in recent years, derived from lipid and cell inflammation parameters, that is used to indicate the risk of CVD. This study aimed to investigate the association between urinary W and CVD in the general population and compare the mediating effects of lipids, cell inflammatory parameters, and MHR to find a better target for intervention. We analyzed data from 9137 (≥ 20 years) participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), from 2005 to 2018. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) and survey-weighted generalized linear models (SWGLMs) were used to assess the relationship between W and CVD. Mediated analyses were used to explore lipids, cell inflammatory parameters, and MHR in the possible mediating pathways between W and CVD. In SWGLM, we found that W enhances the risk of CVD, especially congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary heart disease (CHD), and angina pectoris (AP). Women, higher age groups (≥ 55 years), and those with hypertension were vulnerable to W in the subgroup analysis. Mediation analysis showed that monocyte count (MC), white blood cell count (WBC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and MHR played a mediating role between W and CVD in proportions of 8.49%, 3.70%, 5.18%, and 12.95%, respectively. In conclusion, our study shows that urinary W can increase the risk of CVD, especially for CHF, CHD, and AP. Women, older age groups, and people with hypertension seem to be more vulnerable to W. In addition, MC, WBC, HDL, and MHR mediated the association between W and CVD, especially MHR, which suggests that we should consider it as a priority intervention target in the future.

Efficiency of tungsten-polymer composite shields on fetal dose reduction in chest CT scans

Given their desirable shielding properties, 5 polymer composite shields reinforced with tungsten were selected and their effects as gamma shields on fetal dose reduction were investigated. According to the results, the selected shields reduce the fetus brain, the fetus lungs, the fetus kidneys, and the total fetus dose almost 34.17%-41.19%, 20.47%-25.08%, 9.27%-12.13%, and 15.39%-18.69%, respectively, at tube voltage of 80 kVp. At the higher tube potentials, the values of dose reduction were smaller. Moreover, it was observed that polymers named PHEMA-WO3 and RS-U-30 had an excellent shielding ability among the other studied composites.

New Contrast Media for K-Edge Imaging With Photon-Counting Detector CT

ABSTRACT

The recent technological developments in photon-counting detector computed tomography (PCD-CT) and the introduction of the first commercially available clinical PCD-CT unit open up new exciting opportunities for contrast media research. With PCD-CT, the efficacy of available iodine-based contrast media improves, allowing for a reduction of iodine dosage or, on the other hand, an improvement of image quality in low contrast indications. Virtual monoenergetic image reconstructions are routinely available and enable the virtual monoenergetic image energy to be adapted to the diagnostic task.A key property of PCD-CT is the ability of spectral separation in combination with improved material decomposition. Thus, the discrimination of contrast media from intrinsic or pathological tissues and the discrimination of 2 or more contrasting elements that characterize different tissues are attractive fields for contrast media research. For these approaches, K-edge imaging in combination with high atomic number elements such as the lanthanides, tungsten, tantalum, or bismuth plays a central role.The purpose of this article is to present an overview of innovative contrast media concepts that use high atomic number elements. The emphasis is on improving contrast enhancement for cardiovascular plaque imaging, stent visualization, and exploring new approaches using 2 contrasting elements. Along with the published research, new experimental findings with a contrast medium that incorporates tungsten are included.Both the literature review and the new experimental data demonstrate the great potential and feasibility for new contrast media to significantly increase diagnostic performance and to enable new clinical fields and indications in combination with PCD-CT.

[Effect of polishing method and time on the fitness of CAD/CAM zirconia ceramic crown]

PURPOSE

To compare the effect of different polishing methods and time treatment on the fitness of CAD/CAM zirconia ceramic crowns.

METHODS

Sixteen intact maxillary premolars were randomly divided into two groups, group A was treated with silicon carbide burs, while group B was treated with tungsten steel burs. At different polishing time points of the same tooth, digital impressions of each group were obtained, which were used to manufacture CAD/CAM zirconium ceramic crowns. After trial fitting, the gap impressions were obtained by using silicone rubber replication method, and the marginal and internal discrepancies were assessed. The data were statistically analyzed with SPSS 21.0 software package.

RESULTS

The difference between the gap values of the marginal and internal markers of group A and group B was not statistically significant(P＞0.05). Compared with the no-polishing process, the differences of the marginal gap (39.67±8.35) μm and internal gap (45.18±7.16) μm of group A polished for 4 min, and the marginal gap (51.25±14.73) μm, and internal gap (48.56±6.45) μm of group B polished for 3 min, as well as the marginal gap (48.87±8.90) μm, and internal gap (45.99±7.12) μm of group B polished for 4 min, were all significant(P＜0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

CAD/CAM zirconia ceramic crowns treated with silicon carbide bur for polishing 4 min and tungsten steel for 3 min has the best fitness.

Modification in Applying Appendix D of 40 CFR Part 61 to Heated Solid Radionuclide Materials With High Melting and Boiling Points

ABSTRACT

Appendix D of Title 40 Part 61 of the US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) provides a procedure that US Department of Energy (US DOE) facility owners and operators can use to estimate radionuclide emissions to the atmosphere for dose calculations instead of measuring emissions for minor sources under the 40 CFR Part 61, Subpart H, National Emission Standards for Emissions of Radionuclides Other Than Radon From Department of Energy Facilities, regulation. The procedure assumes that any radioactive material heated above 100 °C is completely vaporized and emitted to the atmosphere. In 1991, the US DOE Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR) requested approval to use different release fractions (RFs) for uranium because of its high melting and boiling points. In response to the request, the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) Region IV approved the use of modified RFs for elemental uranium provided no reaction had taken place to alter its chemical form. In 2015, the ORR requested approval to use different RFs for tungsten, again because of its high melting and boiling points. EPA Region IV approved the use of modified RFs for heated radioactive tungsten metal. In accordance with the two precedents set for heating uranium and radioactive tungsten metals, in 2016, the ORR requested approval to use modified RFs in a similar fashion for other radioactive solid metals and compounds with melting and boiling points above 500 °C that might be heated above 100 °C in future research projects and experiments. EPA Region IV again granted approval to use modified RFs for the list of compounds. This note discusses the proposed modified RFs and their development.

Lzp2

Tungsten (W) is an emerging contaminant, and current knowledge on W resistance profiles of microorganisms remains scarce and fragmentary. This study aimed to explore the physiological responses of bacteria under W stress and to resolve genes and metabolic pathways involved in W resistance using a transcriptome expression profiling assay. The results showed that the bacterium Citrobacter sp. Lzp2, screened from W-contaminated soil, could tolerate hundreds of mM W(VI) with a 50% inhibiting concentration of ∼110 mM. To cope with W stress, Citrobacter sp. Lzp2 secreted large amounts of proteins through the type VI secretory system (T6SS) to chelate W oxoanions via carboxylic groups in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and could transport cytosolic W outside via the multidrug efflux pumps (mdtABC and acrD). Intracellular W is probably bound by chaperone proteins and metal-binding pterin (tungstopterin) through the sulfur relay system. We propose that tetrathionate respiration is a new metabolic pathway for cellular W detoxification likely producing thio-tungstate. We conclude that multiple mechanisms collectively mediate W homeostasis and resistance in Citrobacter sp. Lzp2. Our results have important implications not only for understanding the intricate regulatory network of W homeostasis in microbes but also for bio-recovery and bioremediation of W in contaminated environments.

Molecularly imprinted ratiometric fluorescence detection of tetracycline based on its fluorescence enhancement effect caused by tungsten trioxide quantum dots

This paper reports a novel probe developed based on the tungsten trioxide quantum dots (WO_3-x QDs) and molecularly imprinted polymers for the detection of trace tetracycline (TC) in the complex food matrix. Tungsten ion (W⁶⁺) in WO_3-x QDs has a fluorescence enhancement effect on TC, and TC has a fluorescence quenching effect on WO_3-x QDs. The blue emission of the WO_3-x QDs (λ_em = 470 nm) as a reference and the yellow emission of the TC (λ_em = 550 nm) as a response were utilized for the ratiometric fluorescence detection. In order to improve its selectivity, the molecular imprinting technology was combined to construct molecularly imprinted ratiometric fluorescent probes (MIRFPs). Therefore, the MIRFPs can not only selectively detect TC, but also realize the visual detection from blue to yellow. Under the optimal conditions, the linear ranges of 0.01 ∼ 10.0 μmol/L and 20.0 ∼ 80.0 μmol/L were obtained with the limits of detection of 3.23 nmol/L and 6.37 μmol/L, respectively. Furthermore, the MIRFPs had been successfully applied to the detection of TC in milk and eggs. The satisfactory recoveries were in the range of 92.7 ∼ 102.9 % with relative standard deviations (RSD, n = 3) below 1.59 %. This work offers a good strategy for the detection of food hazards.