Planetary Terrestrial Analogues Library (PTAL) a novel database to support rover missions to Mars

Author(s):  
Marco Veneranda ◽  
Jesus Saiz ◽  
Guillermo Lopez-Reyes ◽  
Jose Antonio Manrique ◽  
Jesus Medina ◽  
...  

<p>NASA/Mars2020 and ESA/ExoMars missions will look for traces of present or past life on Mars. To do so, both Perseverance and Rosalind Franklin rovers have been equipped with a wide set of spectroscopic systems to investigate the geochemistry and mineralogy of Martian rocks and soils. As spectroscopic techniques are acquiring an increasing importance in the field of Mars exploration, many research groups are trying to estimate and optimize their potential scientific return by carrying out representative analytical studies in the laboratory.</p><p>In this framework, PTAL is a research project founded by the European Commission through the H2020 program, which is aimed to provide the scientific community with a novel library of terrestrial analogue materials that have been selected based on their similarity to well-known Martian geological contexts. Planned to be released to public on January 2022, the PTAL platform (http://erica.uva.es/PTAL/) will provide future users with access to complementary spectroscopic and diffractometric data gathered from over 100 terrestrial analogues.</p><p>In detail, the XRD analysis of each analogue was carried out to gather a reliable overview of samples mineralogy. Then, LIBS, IR and Raman spectrometers were used to collect additional elemental and molecular data, these being the key analytical tools onboard NASA/Perseverance and ESA/Rosalind Franklin rovers. Beside the use of commercial spectrometers, the RLS ExoMars Simulator, the MicrOmega-Flight (FS) (Spare Model) and the ChemCam-FS were also employed to collect LIBS, Raman and NIR spectra (respectively) qualitatively comparable to those that will soon gathered on Mars.</p><p>In addition to analytical data, the PTAL platform will also provide direct access to a dedicated software (SpectPro) for spectral visualization and treatment [1]</p><p>To conclude, future users can also request physical access to the terrestrial analogues, so that the data contained in the PTAL library can be combined with further analysis in the laboratory.</p><p>To obtain further information about the PTAL project, please use the QR code provided in Figure 01.</p><p><img src="https://contentmanager.copernicus.org/fileStorageProxy.php?f=gepj.c1afd2953bff50778920161/sdaolpUECMynit/12UGE&app=m&a=0&c=d612978c3e8bf727a0ba9991a9929b9d&ct=x&pn=gepj.elif&d=1" alt="" width="165" height="165"></p><p>Figure 01: PTAL QR code</p><p><strong>Acknowledgements</strong>: This work is financed through the European Research Council in the H2020- COMPET-2015 programme (grant 687302) and the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (MINECO, grant PID2019-107442RB-C31).</p><p><strong>References:</strong> [1] Saiz J. et al., (2019) EGU general Assembly, 21, 17904.</p>

Molecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 26 (8) ◽  
pp. 2288
Author(s):  
Ahmed Gaber ◽  
Moamen S. Refat ◽  
Arafa A.M. Belal ◽  
Ibrahim M. El-Deen ◽  
Nader Hassan ◽  
...  

Herein, we report the synthesis of eight new mononuclear and binuclear Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ methoxy thiosemicarbazone (MTSC) complexes aiming at obtaining thiosemicarbazone complex with potent biological activity. The structure of the MTSC ligand and its metal complexes was fully characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopic techniques (NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis), molar conductivity, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), and thermal differential analysis (DrTGA). The spectral and analytical data revealed that the obtained thiosemicarbazone-metal complexes have octahedral geometry around the metal center, except for the Zn2+-thiosemicarbazone complexes, which showed a tetrahedral geometry. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the MTSC ligand and its (Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) metal complexes were also investigated. Interestingly, the antibacterial activity of MTSC- metal complexes against examined bacteria was higher than that of the MTSC alone, which indicates that metal complexation improved the antibacterial activity of the parent ligand. Among different metal complexes, the MTSC- mono- and binuclear Cu2+ complexes showed significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Proteus vulgaris, better than that of the standard gentamycin drug. The in silico molecular docking study has revealed that the MTSC ligand could be a potential inhibitor for the oxidoreductase protein.


2017 ◽  
Vol 1 ◽  
pp. maapoc.0000013 ◽  
Author(s):  
Klara Dégardin ◽  
Yves Roggo

Currently, counterfeit medicine is a significant issue for the pharmaceutical world, and it targets all types of therapeutic areas. The health consequences are appalling, since counterfeit medicines can contain impurities and the wrong chemical composition, and can be manufactured and/or stored in dreadful conditions. The provision of fast and reliable analytical tools can contribute to an efficient fight against this phenomenon. In this paper, an analytical strategy based on mobile and forensic laboratories is presented. The mobile equipment, composed of handheld x-ray fluorescence, Raman, infrared, and near-infrared spectrometers, and a handheld microscope, can be used as a first screening tool to detect counterfeits. The counterfeits can then be confirmed in a forensic-dedicated lab in which the chemical composition of the counterfeits is determined to evaluate the danger encountered by the patients. Relevant links with former counterfeit cases then can be revealed based on the analytical data, and can be interpreted from a forensic intelligence perspective in order to provide additional information for law enforcement.


2015 ◽  
Vol 95 (2) ◽  
pp. 141-151 ◽  
Author(s):  
J.H. Hooijschuur ◽  
M.F.C. Verkaaik ◽  
G.R. Davies ◽  
F. Ariese

AbstractRaman spectroscopy appears to be an ideal technique for the initial detection of biomarkers, molecules that are potentially indicative of life on planetary bodies elsewhere in our solar system. Carotenoids are particularly useful biomarkers as they are used widely across the species, relatively resistant to breakdown and no inorganic source is known. They are used by microorganisms in their cell membranes for protection against UV radiation. In this paper we focus on the detection of carotenoids in microorganisms within a mineral matrix. We compare the Raman signatures of pure compounds with those of laboratory-made mixtures of β-carotene and minerals. Carotenoids covered by 2.5 mm of translucent calcite or 40 mm of transparent halite were detected using a conventional confocal Raman microscope. To improve sensitivity and hence detection levels, Raman measurements were successfully performed under resonant conditions. Raman analysis can be compromised by fluorescence interference. Data are presented to show how the contribution from the fluorescent background in the Raman spectra can be reduced when making use of gated detection in time-resolved Raman spectroscopy. Overall, this study demonstrates some of the potential of Raman spectroscopy as a method for the detection of (past) life signatures during future planetary missions without taking current technical limitations such as instrumental size into account as recent rapid technical developments suggest these limitations will be resolved in time.


Author(s):  
Marta Siczek ◽  
Marcin Zawadzki ◽  
Miłosz Siczek ◽  
Agnieszka Chłopaś-Konowałek ◽  
Paweł Szpot

Abstract Purpose The aim of the study was to present the spectroscopic characteristics and crystal structure of the etazene—a benzimidazole opioid, which appeared on the illegal drug market in Poland in the last weeks. Methods The title compound was analyzed by X-ray crystallography as well as gas and liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry. Spectroscopic techniques have also been used, such as nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopies. Results We presented the identification and the broad chemical characterization of etazene, a synthetic opioid that has recently been introduced on the illegal drug market. Conclusions In this paper, we described single-crystal X-ray, chromatographic and spectroscopic characterization of a synthetic opioid that emerged on the new psychoactive substance (NPS) market in Poland. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first full characterization of etazene. Analytical data presented in the work can be helpful in identification and detection of the NPS in forensic and clinical laboratories.


2012 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 1655-1666 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. P. Mishra ◽  
H. Purwar ◽  
Rajendra K. Jain ◽  
S. K. Gupta

Some new Schiff base metal complexes of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) derived from 4-chlorobenzylidene-2-aminothiazole (CAT) and 2-nitrobenzylidene-2-aminothiazole (NAT) have been synthesized by conventional as well as microwave methods. These compounds have been characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, FAB-mass, molar conductance, electronic spectra, ESR, magnetic susceptibility, thermal, electrical conductivity and XRD analysis. The complexes are coloured and stable in air. Analytical data revealed that all the complexes exhibited 1:2 (metal:ligand) ratio with coordination number 4 or 6. FAB-mass and thermal data show degradation pattern of the complexes. The thermal behavior of metal complexes shows that the hydrated complexes loses water molecules of hydration in the first step; followed by decomposition of ligand molecules in the subsequent steps. The crystal system, lattice parameter, unit cell volume and number of molecules in unit cell in the lattice of complexes have been determined by XRD analysis. XRD patterns indicate crystalline nature for the complexes. The solid state electrical conductivity of the metal complexes has also been measured. Solid state electrical conductivity studies reflect semiconducting nature of the complexes. The Schiff base and metal complexes show a good activity against the Gram-positive bacteria;Staphylococcus aureusand Gram-negative bacteria;Escherichia coliand fungiAspergillus nigerandCandida albicans.


2014 ◽  
Vol 69 (2) ◽  
pp. 239-247 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marek Pietraszkiewicz ◽  
Suraj Mal ◽  
Oksana Pietraszkiewicz ◽  
Krzysztof Górski ◽  
Nitin Chelwani

New ternary Eu(III) 5-(2-pyridyl-1-oxide)tetrazolate complexes with phosphine oxide co-ligands have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, and IR and 1H NMR spectroscopic techniques. The analytical data revealed that these complexes are mononuclear, and the central Eu(III) ion is coordinated by three oxygen and three nitrogen atoms of the tetrazolate and two oxygen atoms from the phosphine oxide ligands. The ancillary ligands increased remarkably the luminescence efficiency of the Eu(III) tetrazolate.


2021 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
pp. 77-83
Author(s):  
Aušra ČIULADIENĖ ◽  
Aldona BEGANSKIENĖ ◽  
Jūratė SENVAITIENĖ ◽  
Aivaras KAREIVA

In this study, the red iron paints used in ancient manuscripts for rubrics and miniatures were fabricated and investigated. The commercial three different iron pigments (red ochre (Fe2O3), red bolus (Fe2O3.xSiO2.yAl2O3), and hematite (Fe2O3)) and three binding media (gum Arabic, fish glue and parchment glue) were used for the preparation of analogous to historical red iron paints. The obtained model red iron paints were analyzed with the aim to create a short data library which could be used for the characterization of different model compositions of red paints as well as real historical and archaeological red paints. The obtained red paints and binding media were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and thermal (TG/DSC) analysis techniques. The accelerated aging test was also applied for the analogous to historical red iron paints. These results are useful to develop red paint guidelines for the storage and display for improved conservation and accessibility of manuscripts.


2021 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 109-114
Author(s):  
Agum Permana ◽  
Nanda Jarti ◽  
Agus Suryadi

Abstract: A The inventory system at Ibnu Sina University in the facilities and infrastructure section of the old system still has several shortcomings, therefore the authors are interested in developing from the old system so as to produce an updated and user friendly system which has more advantages including barcode features, control features goods, then the chairman has direct access that previously did not have the old system. The development of this inventory system, the author uses a prototype method with a development model using the Unified Model Language (UML). The purpose of this research will be to facilitate facility staff in finding information on goods by means of barcode scanners on QR labels that have been affixed to goods, making it easier to find out the condition of goods that are carried out regularly with the goods control feature, having three actors in using the inventory system which the main actor has full access and the other two actors have limited access in using the system. With the hope that the facilities section will make it easier to control all assets or inventory of goods at Ibn Sina University. So that it can be a solution to existing problems. Keywords: Goods Inventory, Prototype, QR Code.  Abstrak: Sistem inventarisasi pada Universitas Ibnu Sina pada bagian sarana dan prasarana pada sistem yang lama masih memiliki beberapa kekurangan oleh karena itu penulis tertarik mengembangkan dari sistem yang lama sehingga menghasilkan sistem yang ter-update dan user friendly yang mana lebih memiliki kelebihan diantaranya fitur barcode, fitur kontrol barang, kemudian ketua memiliki akses secara langsung yang sebelumnya tidak dimiliki sistem lama. Pengembangan pada sistem inventaris barang ini penulis menggunakan metode prototype dengan model pengembangan menggunakan Unified Model Language (UML). Adapun tujuan dari penelitian ini nantinya dapat mempermudah staff sarana dalam pencarian informasi barang dengan cara scanner barcode pada label QR yang sudah ditempel pada barang, mempermudah mengetahui kondisi barang yang dilakukan secara berkala dengan adanya fitur kontrol barang, mempunyai tiga aktor dalam penggunaan sistem inventaris yang mana aktor utama memiliki akses secara penuh dan dua aktor lainnya memiliki akses terbatas dalam penggunaan sistem. Dengan harapan agar bagian sarana lebih mudah dalam pengkontrolan semua asset ataupun inventaris barang yang ada pada Universitas Ibnu Sina. Sehingga dapat menjadi solusi dalam permasalahan yang ada. Kata kunci: Inventaris Barang, Prototype, QR Code. 


2021 ◽  
Vol 2021 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Karthika Shetty ◽  
Jayadev ◽  
Kalyan Raj ◽  
H. C. Ananda Murthy

In India, the thermal station generates approximately 6.9 × 10 7 tons of fly ash (FA) as a waste by-product. As part of this work, little attempt was made to produce useful materials from waste material. In our current research, polyaniline- (PANI-) fly ash (FA) nanocomposite (PFNC) was synthesized using an in situ polymerization method. The synthesized composites were characterized by employing advanced analytical, microscopic, and spectroscopic tools. The results of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirm the effective reinforcement of FA into PANI in PFNC. The presence of functional groups in PFNC has been confirmed by Raman and FT-IR spectroscopic techniques. The SEM micrographs of the nanocomposite revealed the presence of agglomerated and fragmented structures in PFNC. The weight loss for PFNC was observed to occur in three stages as revealed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). UV-visible spectra for PFNC proved that FA stabilized the PANI in emeraldine form. Electrodynamic polarization studies were conducted to explore the corrosion resistance of nanocomposite-coated mild steel. The corrosion current density ( i corr ) for PFNC-coated mild steel (MS) specimens was found to decrease when compared to the bare substrate, indicating superior corrosion resistance in PFNC-coated substrate. Similarly, Tafel and cyclic polarization studies too confirmed superior anticorrosion property for MS coated with PFNC.


2008 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 1741-1750 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rocío Fernández-Saavedra ◽  
Margarita Darder ◽  
Almudena Gómez-Avilés ◽  
Pilar Aranda ◽  
Eduardo Ruiz-Hitzky

The present work introduces a comparative study on the use of polymer nanocomposites containing clay minerals of different structure, such as montmorillonite and sepiolite as host solids for the templating synthesis of carbon-like materials from different organic precursors. Carbon-clay nanocomposites were obtained by polymerization of either acrylonitrile or sucrose previously inserted in the pores of the clay minerals, followed by their further thermal transformation in carbon-like compounds. Acid treatment of the resulting carbon-clay nanocomposites removes the inorganic templates giving carbon-like materials with different textural features. Polymer-clay, carbon-clay and carbon-like materials have been characterized by applying spectroscopic techniques as FTIR and in situ EIS (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) and other structural, textural and analytical tools (chemical analysis, XRD, SEM-EDX, TEM-EDX, N2 adsorption isotherms,...). Electrochemical properties of these carbon-clay nanocomposites, as well as their templated carbonaceous materials and their use as electrode materials of different electrochemical devices such as rechargeable Li-batteries, supercapacitors and electrochemical sensors, are also discussed.


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