Search Results (233)

This study investigates the synergistic effects of co-doping with ultralow-concentration nitrogen and trace carbon dioxide on the growth of polycrystalline diamond films via microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD). The films were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Results indicate that trace nitrogen effectively promotes <111> oriented growth and enhances the deposition rate, whereas excessive nitrogen leads to the formation of defects such as pores and microcracks. The introduction of CO₂ suppresses the formation of nitrogen-vacancy-related defects through a selective etching mechanism. Under co-doping conditions, diamond films with high growth rates, strong <111> texture, and superior thermal conductivity (up to 1863.94 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹) were successfully synthesized, demonstrating significant potential for thermal management applications in high-power integrated circuits. Full article

Berries—including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, cranberries, and several less commonly cultivated berry species—are highly valued for their sensory quality and rich content of bioactive compounds, yet they are among the most perishable horticultural products. Their soft texture, high respiration rate, and susceptibility to fungal pathogens lead to rapid postharvest deterioration and significant economic losses. This review synthesizes advances in berry postharvest management reported between 2010 and 2025. Conventional strategies such as rapid precooling, cold-chain optimization, controlled and modified atmospheres, and edible coatings are discussed alongside emerging non-thermal technologies, including UV-C light, ozone, cold plasma, ultrasound, biocontrol agents, and intelligent packaging systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the instability of anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds, microbial spoilage dynamics, and the influence of cultivar genetics and preharvest factors on postharvest performance. The review also highlights opportunities for circular-economy applications, as berry pomace, seeds, and skins represent valuable sources of polyphenols, dietary fiber, and seed oils for use in food, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and bio-based packaging sectors. Looking ahead, future research should prioritize integrated, multi-hurdle, low-residue postharvest strategies, the scale-up of non-thermal technologies, and data-driven cold-chain management. Overall, coordinated physiological, technological, and sustainability-oriented approaches are essential to maintain berry quality, reduce postharvest losses, and strengthen the resilience of berry value chains. Full article

Texture is a critical quality attribute of strawberry fruit, and phytohormones play a pivotal role in fruit softening, which mainly results from cell wall metabolism, which is governed by genes and enzymes. To gain further insights into strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa, Duch. cv.  Akihime ) softening, our study investigated changes across five stages in fruits in their firmness, soluble solids content (SSC), cell microstructure, cell wall materials, activities of cell wall-modifying enzymes, gene expression, endogenous phytohormone levels, and their correlation. During strawberry ripening, firmness decreased, while SSC, intercellular space, and separation of the cell wall from the plasma membrane increased. Meanwhile, the contents of ionic pectin (ISP) and cellulose (CE), pectin methylesterase (PME) activity, FaPME expression, and the levels of zeatin (Z) and strigolactone (SL) decreased, showing a positive correlation with firmness. In contrast, the activities of pectate lyase (PL) and cellulase (Cx), the expression of FaPL and FaCx, and the contents of gibberellin A₄ (GA₄), GA₉, and abscisic acid (ABA) increased during ripening, and these were negatively correlated with firmness. These results suggest that Z and SL are associated with the maintenance of cell wall integrity and firmness, whereas increases in GA₄, GA_9, and ABA are linked to enhanced cell wall disassembly and fruit softening. Full article

The Yixingzhai deposit is a giant gold system containing four cryptovolcanic breccia pipes, several of which host significant porphyry-type gold orebodies at depth. A key exploration target is the Tietangdong cryptovolcanic breccia pipe, characterized by skarn alteration in its upper zones. However, the evolution of early hydrothermal fluids and their implications for gold enrichment potential remain poorly understood. This study employs an integrated approach—combining petrography, electron probe microanalysis, laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and LA-ICP-MS elemental mapping—to analyze zoned garnets within the Tietangdong skarn, with the aim of deciphering changes in magmatic–hydrothermal composition and physicochemical conditions, as well as their influence on gold enrichment. Textural and compositional data reveal three distinct generations of garnets. Garnets from generations I and III consist of a grossular–andradite solid solution and commonly exhibits optical anisotropy. In contrast, generation II garnet is predominantly andraditic and optically homogeneous. LA-ICP-MS elemental mapping of generations I and III indicates that both generations contain significant Al and Fe, with their optical anisotropy attributed to a high degree of Fe³⁺/Al³⁺ cationic ordering. Compared to generations I and III, generation II garnet displays distinct geochemical characteristics, including enrichment in Fe, As, Sn, W, and U, patterns enriched in light rare earth elements, a positive Eu anomaly, and a wide range of Y/Ho ratios. Garnets from generations I and III crystallized under relatively high-pressure, high-temperature, and low-oxygen fugacity conditions, whereas generation II garnets formed under lower pressure–temperature conditions and higher oxygen fugacity. Moreover, concentrations of Co, Ni, and Cu increase systematically from generation I to generation III. We interpret the sharp compositional break at generation II as recording of the pulsed injection of magmatic–hydrothermal fluids, which enhanced the potential for gold mineralization. The zoning patterns in garnet provide a robust record of the temporal evolution of physicochemical conditions and fluid composition in the hydrothermal system. Full article

Pea protein isolates (PPIs) from Pisum sativum have emerged as strategic ingredients at the interface of nutrition, sustainability, and functional food design. This review synthesizes advances linking isolation procedures with molecular structure and techno-functional performance. We compare alkaline extraction–isoelectric precipitation with wet and dry fractionation, as well as green/fermentation-assisted methods, highlighting the purity–functionality trade-offs driven by denaturation, aggregation, and the removal of anti-nutritional factors. We relate globulin composition (vicilin/legumin ratio), secondary/tertiary structure, and disulfide chemistry to interfacial activity, solubility, gelation thresholds, and long-term emulsion stability. Structure-guided engineering strategies are critically evaluated, including enzymatic hydrolysis, deamidation, transglutaminase cross-linking, ultrasound, high-pressure homogenization, pH shifting, cold plasma, and selected chemical/glycation approaches. Application case studies cover high-moisture texturization for meat analogues, emulsion and Pickering systems, fermented dairy alternatives, edible films, and bioactive peptide-oriented nutraceuticals. We identify bottlenecks—weak native gel networks, off-flavors, acidic pH performance, and batch variability—and outline process controls and synergistic modifications that close functionality gaps relative to animal proteins. Finally, we discuss sustainability and biorefinery opportunities that valorize soluble peptide streams alongside globulin-rich isolates. By integrating extraction, structure, and function, the review provides a roadmap for designing PPI with predictable, application-specific performance. Full article

Milk coffee is a composite beverage in which interactions among dairy proteins, lipids, and coffee polyphenols govern flavor, texture, and stability. This review synthesizes recent research to guide formulation and processing, covering conventional Ultra-high temperature sterilization (UHT) and innovative routes including blending-after-sterilization (BAS), high-pressure homogenization (HPH), ultrasound/pulsed electric field (PEF)/cold plasma (CP), microencapsulation, and plant-based matrices. Key findings show that non-covalent protein–polyphenol complexes and interfacial partitioning at fat-globule membranes control volatile retention, astringency, droplet structure, and phenolic bioaccessibility; appropriate fat levels and HPH refine microstructure; BAS better preserves aroma; and matrix or decaffeination choices modulate antioxidant capacity. Guided by these insights, we propose a concise “process–activity–stability” framework linking parameters to functionality and shelf life to accelerate the development of high-quality, nutritious, enjoyable, and more sustainable milk coffee products. Full article

Zirconia is widely used for customized implant abutments owing to its esthetics, strength, and biocompatibility; however, the optimal surface modification for soft-tissue sealing and bone metabolic remains uncertain. This study evaluated how glass–ceramic spray deposition (GCSD), with or without handheld nonthermal plasma (HNP), alters zirconia surface physiochemistry and cellular responses. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, surface roughness (Ra), wettability, and surface free energy (SFE) were measured. Human osteoblast-like cells (MG-63) and human gingival fibroblasts (HGF-1) were used to assess attachment and spreading, metabolic activity, cytotoxicity, and inflammatory response (tumor necrosis factor-α, TNF-α) (α = 0.05). GCSD produced an interlaced rod- and needle-like glass–ceramic layer, significantly increasing Ra and hydrophilicity. HNP further reduced surface contaminants, increased SFE, and enhanced wettability. The combination of GCSD and HNP yielded the greatest attachment and spreading for both cell types, without increases in cytotoxicity or TNF-α. GCSD with HNP creates a hydrophilic, micro-textured, chemically activated zirconia surface that maintains biocompatibility while promoting early attachment and bone metabolic activity, supporting its application for zirconia implant abutments. Full article

The Jingbaoer Grassland Jade Mine situated approximately 20 km northwest of Mazongshan Town in Gansu Province, China, represents an important source of nephrite dating back to the pre-Qin period. In this study, 58 representative nephrite samples were analyzed to investigate their mineralogical and geochemical characteristics using polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The mine is situated near the contact zone between the Silurian Gongpoquan Group and Devonian granite, with surrounding rocks primarily consisting of Precambrian dolomitic marble. The nephrite displays diverse colors—white, bluish-white, sugar-white, and cyan—with darker tones and abundant manganese-stained dendritic and flocculent inclusions. It shows a relative density of 2.82–2.99, a refractive index of 1.60–1.62, and a vitreous to greasy luster. Texturally, the jade is predominantly composed of micro-fibrous interwoven tremolite, occasionally exhibiting oriented recrystallization textures. Minor minerals include diopside, apatite, titanite, chlorite, epidote, allanite, rutile, and graphite. Chemically, the samples are rich in SiO₂, MgO, and CaO, with trace amounts of FeO, MnO, Al₂O₃, and Na₂O. Notably, Sr and Sm are enriched, Nb is slightly depleted, and Eu shows a distinct negative anomaly. The average total rare earth content is 4.25 µg/g. The study suggests that the deposits in the research area are typical of the contact-metasomatic type, formed through multi-stage hydrothermal metasomatism between acidic granitic intrusions and dolomitic marble, creating favorable conditions for the formation of high-quality tremolite jade. Comparative analysis with jade artifacts excavated from the Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng suggests a possible provenance link to the Jingbaoer deposit, providing valuable evidence for the historical mining and distribution of nephrite during the Warring States period. Full article

The increasing atmospheric CO₂ concentration is one of the major environmental challenges, necessitating not only emission reduction but also effective carbon utilization. Non-thermal plasma-catalytic CO₂ conversion offers an efficient pathway under mild conditions by synergistically combining plasma activation with catalytic surface reactions. In this study, mesoporous ceria catalysts were synthesized by different methods and characterized using N₂ adsorption–desorption, SEM, XRD, XPS, CO₂-TPD, and XRF techniques. The materials exhibited distinct textural and electronic properties, including variations in surface area, pore structure, and basicity. Plasma-catalytic CO₂ dissociation experiments were conducted in a dielectric barrier discharge reactor at near-room temperature. Among the synthesized catalysts, Ce(mp)-4 demonstrated the highest CO₂ conversion of 32.3% at a 5 kV input voltage and superior energy efficiency, which can be attributed to its meso-macroporous structure that promotes microdischarge formation and enhances CO₂ adsorption–desorption dynamics. CO was the only product obtained, with near-100% selectivity. Catalyst stability testing showed no deactivation while spent catalyst characterization indicated carbon-containing species. The findings in this study highlight the critical role of tailored pore structure and basic-site distribution in optimizing plasma-catalytic CO₂ dissociation performance, offering a promising strategy for energy-efficient CO₂ utilization. Full article

Accurate phase identification is essential for characterising complex mineral systems but remains a challenge in SEM-based automated mineralogy (AM) for compositionally variable rock-forming or accessory minerals. While platforms such as the Tescan Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA) offer high-resolution phase mapping through BSE-EDS data, classification accuracy depends on the quality of the user-defined phase library. Generic libraries often fail to capture site-specific mineral compositions, resulting in misclassification and unclassified pixels, particularly in systems with solid solution behaviour, compositional zoning, and textural complexity. We present a refined approach to developing and validating custom TIMA phase libraries. We outline strategies for iterative rule refinement using mineral chemistry, textures, and BSE-EDS responses. Phase assignments were validated using complementary microanalytical techniques, primarily electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS). Three Queensland case studies demonstrate this approach: amphiboles in an IOCG deposit; cobalt-bearing phases in a sediment-hosted Cu-Au-Co deposit; and Li-micas in an LCT pegmatite system. Targeted refinement of phases improves identification, reduces unclassified phases, and enables rare phase recognition. Expert-guided phase library development strengthens mineral systems research and downstream applications in geoscience, ore deposits, and critical minerals while integrating datasets across scales from cores to mineral mapping. Full article

Carbon-based materials have emerged as promising biomaterials due to their biocompatibility and inherent antibacterial properties. Carbyne, a unique allotrope of carbon, characterized by sp-hybridized carbons forming alternating single and triple bonds, exhibits exceptional toughness. Herein, we explore the potential of carbyne-enriched plasma coatings for antibacterial applications in conjunction with micro- and nano-textured polymeric surfaces. We investigate and characterize carbyne-enriched plasma coatings onto superhydrophilic or superhydrophobic poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) plasma micro-nanotextured surfaces. Our analysis evaluates the wetting properties and durability of these surfaces, particularly in liquid immersion conditions. The integration of carbyne-enriched plasma coatings serves a dual purpose: it enhances the chemical bactericidal action and protects surface micro-nanostructures from deformation due to capillary forces thanks to the material’s innate toughness. The results show that the micro-nanotextured and carbyne-enriched coated PMMA surfaces exhibit a significant bactericidal activity as expressed by a bactericidal index of approximately 50%, owing to the combined effect of both the surface topography and the plasma-deposited carbyne coating. Full article

Allergen-free (AF) baked goods usually show inferior texture and mouth-feel due to lack of functional proteins. This study evaluated the quality characteristics of AF muffins incorporated with three different sources of chickpea protein isolate (CPI), including commercial CPI, laboratory CPI, and cold plasma-modified laboratory CPI at varying addition levels (5%, 10%, and 15%). Results indicate that commercially available CPI exhibits high viscoelasticity in whole wheat muffin batter due to mixed protein types and severe denaturation, but the finished muffins are excessively hard with insufficient elasticity. Adding 15% laboratory CPI treated with cold plasma significantly enhanced the viscoelasticity of the muffin batter. The final product achieved a volume of 99.43 cm³, representing a 20.1% increase compared to the protein-free control group. This resulted in a superior product with enhanced elasticity, moderate hardness, and improved color. This study confirms that cold plasma modification technology effectively unlocks the structural and functional potential of chickpea protein in AF baking systems, offering an innovative solution for developing high-quality, high-protein AF foods. Future research will focus on the industrial scalability of this technology, product sensory characteristics, and shelf-life evaluation. Full article

Myanmar blue jadeite jade is a rare and highly prized gemstone, yet its coloration and formative mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, petrographic analysis, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) were performed on a sample of Myanmar blue jadeite with small white blocks to investigate its mineral composition, trace element distribution, and coloration mechanisms. Most of the sample was found to be blue, with surrounding white areas occurring in small ball-shaped blocks. The main mineral component in both the blue and white domains was jadeite. Although both areas underwent recrystallization, their textures differed significantly. The blue areas retained primary structural features within a medium- to fine-grained texture, reflecting relatively weaker recrystallization. The white areas, however, were recrystallized into a micro-grained texture, reflecting relatively stronger recrystallization, with the superimposed effects of external stress producing a fragmented appearance. The blue jadeite had relatively higher contents of Ti, Fe, Ca, and Mg, while the white jadeite contained compositions close to those of near-end-member jadeite. It was noted that, while white jadeite may have a high Ti content, its Fe content is low. UV–Vis spectra showed a broad absorption band at 610 nm associated with Fe²⁺-Ti⁴⁺ charge transfer and a gradually increasing absorption band starting at 480 nm related to V⁴⁺. Combining the chemical composition and the characteristics of the UV–Vis spectra, we infer that the blue coloration of jadeite is attributed to Fe²⁺-Ti⁴⁺ charge transfer; i.e., the presence of both Ti and Fe in blue jadeite plays a key role in its color formation. V⁴⁺ exhibited no significant linear correlation with the development of blue coloration. Prominent oscillatory zoning was observed in the jadeite, transitioning from NaAlSi₂O₆-dominant cores to Ca-Mg-Fe-Ti-enriched rims, reflecting the trend of fluid evolution during blue jadeite crystallization. Petrographic analysis indicated that the formation of the Myanmar blue jadeite occurred in two or three stages, with the blue regions forming earlier than the white regions. The blue jadeite also underwent significant recrystallization. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the formation of blue jadeite and the diversity of colors in jadeite jade. Full article

Fermented vegetables, which are valued for their distinctive organoleptic properties and nutritional profile, are susceptible to quality deterioration during processing and storage because microorganisms inhabit vegetable raw materials. The metabolic processes of these microorganisms may induce texture degradation, chromatic alterations, flavor diminution, and spoilage. Conventional inactivation methods employing thermal sterilization or chemical preservatives achieve microbial control through nonselective inactivation, inevitably compromising the regional sensory characteristics conferred by indigenous fermentative microbiota. Recent advances in existing antimicrobial technologies offer promising alternatives for selective microbial management in fermented vegetable matrices. Existing modalities, including cold plasma, electromagnetic wave-based inactivation (e.g., photodynamic inactivation, pulsed light, catalytic infrared radiation, microwave, and radio frequency), natural essential oils, and lactic acid bacterial metabolites, demonstrate targeted pathogen inactivation while maintaining beneficial microbial consortia essential for quality preservation when properly optimized. This paper explores the applications, mechanisms, and targeted microbes of these technologies in fermented vegetable ingredients, aiming to provide a robust theoretical and practical framework for the use of selective inactivation strategies to manage the fermentation process. By assessing their impact on the initial microbial community, this review aims to guide the development of methods that ensure product safety while safeguarding the characteristic flavor and quality of fermented vegetables. Full article

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is widely used in food packaging, biomedical, and optical applications, but its inherent wettability limitations can hinder its performance in extreme environments. To this end, several methods have been developed to improve PET wetting properties. Yet, most of the methods proposed are wet and involve the use of chemical reagents, whereas, in most of the dry-based methods, such as plasma-based methods, which can easily tune the wetting properties of polymeric materials such as PET, achieving long-term stability, especially in extreme wetting states (superhydrophilicity and superhydrophobicity), remains a challenge. In this work, oxygen plasma etching is used to micro-nanotexture thin and, therefore, flexible PET films (thickness: 50 μm) for three different time durations of 4, 6, and 12 min followed by a C₄F₈ plasma deposition of a hydrophobic film or a hydrophilic poly (ethylene glycol) coating depending on the wettability profile targeted. Using this dry and, therefore, “green” and simple two step method, durable superhydrophilic and superhydrophobic surfaces that last for at least one year have been successfully realized. Finally, it is also shown that wetting control can be achieved without significantly affecting the inherent optical properties of the PET film (texturing duration up to 6 min), highlighting the multifunctionality of the plasma micro-nanotextured PET film. Full article