A new class of nano-cube core-shell heterostructures containing Ag coating on the top of WO₃ was fabricated. Physical vapor deposition was used to produce WO₃ based nano-heterostructures. All kind of wet toxic chemical process was avoided to make the process simple and contaminant free. Sputtering of WO₃ and a subsequent thermal annealing process was done to create nano-cubes of WO₃. After that, sputtering of Ag was performed to form the Ag-WO₃ core-shell nano-heterostructures (CSNH). The CSNHs were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and UV-vis spectroscopy. The morphologies, elemental analysis, interfaces, crystallinity, phases, and chemical compositions were analyzed. The bottom-up growth of WO₃ nanocubes was studied using different time periods at 900°C. Ag coating was also studied before and after annealing. Finally, an optical property (band gap) was also analyzed using Tauc plot derive from absorption spectra. The tailoring the band gap of WO₃ from ~2.9eV to ~ 2.45 eV was observed while Ag-WO₃ CSNH formed.

This study explores the capital structure determinants of Korean firms over an extensive period (1995-2021), encompassing both stable and crisis conditions. Employing a dynamic panel data model and the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation, we address the endogeneity issue introduced by the inclusion of lagged dependent variables. Our research integrates firm-specific internal factors with macroeconomic external variables to provide a comprehensive understanding of the influence of varying economic environments on capital structure. Our study suggests that in times of economic stability, the capital structure decisions of a firm are more influenced by internal factors such as profitability. However, in periods of economic downturns, it's the external macroeconomic market conditions that tend to have a greater impact on these decisions. It's also noteworthy that both book leverage (BL) and market leverage (ML) exhibit quicker adjustments during stable periods as opposed to periods of crisis. This indicates a higher agility of firms in adapting their capital structures in stable normal conditions. Our findings contribute to existing literature by offering a holistic view of capital structure determinants in Korean firms. They underscore the necessity of adaptable financial strategies that account for both internal dynamics and external economic conditions. This study fills a gap in current research, presenting new insights into the dynamics of capital structure in Korean firms and suggesting a multifaceted approach to understanding capital structure in diverse economic contexts.

Micro nano bubbles (MNBs) can generate ·OH in situ, which provides a new idea for the safe and efficient removal of pollutants in water supply systems. However, the difficulty in obtaining stable MNBs causes the low efficiency of ·OH generation, which makes the inability to guarantee the removal efficiency of pollutants. This paper reviews the application research of MNBs technology in water security from three aspects: the generation process of MNBs in water, the generation rule of ·OH during MNBs collapse, and the control mechanism of MNBs on pollutants and biofilms. We found that MNBs generation methods are divided into chemical and mechanical (about 10 kinds) categories, and the instability of bubble size restricts the application of MNBs technology. The generation of ·OH by MNBs is affected by pH, gas source, bubble size, temperature, external stimulation. And pH and external stimulus have more influence on ·OH generation in situ than other factors. Adjusting pH to alkaline or acidic conditions and selecting ozone or oxygen as the gas source can promote the ·OH generation. MNBs’ collapse also releases a large amount of energy, which the temperature and pressure can reach 3000K and 5Gpa respectively, making it efficient to remove ≈90 % of pollutants (i.e., trichloroethylene, benzene, and chlorobenzene). The biofilm can also be removed by physical, chemical, and thermal effect. MNBs technology also has great application potential in drinking water, which can be applied to improve water quality, optimize household water purifiers, and enhance the taste of bottled water. Under the premise of safety, let people of different ages taste, finding that compared with ordinary drinking water, 85.7 % of people think MNBs water is softer, 73.3 % of people think MNBs water is sweeter. This further proves that MNBs water has a great prospect in the drinking water application. This review provides innovative theoretical support for solving the problem of drinking water safety.

Protein–nanoparticle hybridization can ideally lead to novel biological entities characterized by emerging properties, which can sensibly differ from those of the parent components. Herein, the effect of ionic strength on the biological functions of recombinant, His-tagged spermine oxidase (i.e., SMOX) was studied for the first time. Moreover, SMOX was integrated to colloidal surface active maghemite nanoparticles (SAMNs) by direct self-assembly, leading to a biologically active nano-enzyme (i.e., SAMN@SMOX). The hybrid was subjected to an in-depth chemical-physical characterization highlighting that protein structure was perfectly preserved. The catalytic activity of the nanostructured hybrid (SAMN@SMOX) was assessed by extracting kinetics parameters using spermine as substrate and compared to the soluble enzyme as a function of ionic strength. Results revealed that the catalytic function was dominated by electrostatic interactions and that they were drastically modified upon hybridization with colloidal ɣ-Fe2O3. Noteworthy, the affinity of SMOX toward spermine was significantly higher for the nanohybrid at low salinity. The present study supports the vision of using protein–nanoparticle conjugation as a mean for modulating biological functions.

Significant amount of oil remains in the reservoir after primary and secondary operations and to recover the remaining oil, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) can be applied as one of the feasible options remaining nowadays. In this study new nano polymeric materials have been prepared from purple yam and cassava starches. The yield of purple yam nanoparticles (PYNPs) was 85% and that of cassava nanoparticles (CSNPs) is 90.53%. Synthesized materials were characterized through particle size distribution (PSA), zeta potential distribution, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The performance of PYNPs in recovering oil was better than CSNPs as found from recovery experiments. Zeta potential distribution results confirmed the stability of PYNPs over CSNPs (-36.3 mV for PYNPs and -10.7 mV for CSNPs). The optimum concentration for these nanoparticles has been found from interfacial tension measurements and rheological properties and it was 0.60 wt.% for PYNPs and 0.80 wt.% for CSNPs. More incremental recovery (33.46%) has achieved for the polymer that contained PYNPs in comparison to the other nano-polymer (31.3%). This opens the inception for a new technology for polymer flooding that may replace the conventional method that depends on partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM).

We synthesized iron(II)-triazole spin crossover compounds of the type [Fe(atrz)3]X2 and incorporated and deposited them on electrospun polymer nanofibers. In view of possible applications, we chose iron(II)-triazole-complexes that are known to exhibit spin crossover close to ambient temperature. Therefore we used the complexes [Fe(atrz)3]Cl2 and [Fe(atrz)3](2ns)2 (2ns = 2Naphthalenesulfonate) and analyzed them with IR-, UV/Vis and Mossbauer spectroscopy and with a SQUID magnetometer. The synthesized complexes were then in one attempt deposited on fibers of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and in another attempt incorporated into core-shell like PMMA fiber structures. This was done via two different electrospinning methods. Deposition was performed by uniaxial electrospinning and incorporation was performed by coaxial electrospinning. The obtained polymer-complex-composites were then further investitgated by the same methods as the pure complexes as well as by SEM pictures and EDX measurements. The analysis by UV/Vis spectroscopy, Mössbauer spectroscopy and temperature-depended magnetic measurements with the SQUID magnetometer showed that the spin crossover properties were maintained and were not changed after the electrospinning processes and that the complexes were not harmed during the procedure.

The physicalchemistry properties and crystal structure of were nano-ZrO₂+3mol.%Y₂O₃ determined. The kinetics of the formation of H₂ as a result of the decomposition of H₂O on the surface of nano-ZrO₂+3mol.%Y₂O₃ was studied. Effects of adsorption and desorption process on ZrO₂+3 mol.%Y₂O₃ nanoparticles were studied at different (T=400÷1000⁰C) temperature. The study of H₂ in thermal processes at nano-ZrO₂+3 mol.%Y₂O₃ system increased. Such an increase in H₂ generation in comparison with a pure H₂O as thermal processes had formedactive centers for H₂O decomposition on the surface of the catalyst at the expense of δ-electrons emitted on the surface of nano-ZrO₂+3 mol.%Y₂O₃. This showed that the dimensions of the studied nanoscale particles systems are comparable to the free running distance of energy carriers generated by of nano-ZrO₂+3 mol.%Y₂O₃ as a result of thermal processes. These results are promising for hydrogen generation by waer spliting in near future.

This paper seeks to optimize the mechanical and durability properties of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). To meet this objective, concrete specimens were manufactured by using 1,100 kg/m3 of binder, water/binder ratio 0.20, silica sand and last generation of superplasticizer. Silica fume, metakaolin and two types of nano silica were used for improving the performances of the concrete. Additional mixtures included 13mm long OL steel fibers. Compressive strength, electrical resistivity, mercury intrusion porosimetry tests and differential and thermogravimetric thermal analysis were carried out. The binary combination of nano silica and metakaolin, and the ternary combination of nano silica with metakaolin and silica fume, led to the best performances of the UHPC, both mechanical and durable performances.

We fabricated the nano-aperture plasmonic platforms for single molecule detection and other various applications such as infrared thermal emission device. The nano-apertures including the nanopores on the pyramid, and the nano-slits on the Au flat membrane were fabricated using a Ga ion focused ion beam drilling technique, followed by high energy electron beam irradiations dependent upon the electron beam current density. The nanopores with a few nanometer size and the nanoslit array with order of ~ 100 nm width were fabricated. Optical characteristics for the various nanoslits were examined dependent upon the slit opening width and sample thickness. The broad emission spectra from the (7x 7) slit array are obtained from spp-mediated emission in the visible and infrared region. A sharp strong infrared emission peak is also obtained due to Au nanoparticle. The fabricated Au platform can be utilized as single molecule sensor and infrared thermal emission device.

That form and function relates, is the maxim to anatomy and physiology. Yet form-function relations can be difficult to establish. Human subjects with excessive trabeculated myocardium in the left ventricle, for example, are diagnosed with non-compaction cardiomyopathy, but the extent of trabeculations may be without relation to ejection fraction. Rather than rejecting a relation between form and function, we may ask whether the salient function is assessed; is there a relation to electrical propagation, mean arterial blood pressure, propensity to form blood clots, or all? And how should extent of trabeculated muscle be assessed? While reviewing literature on trabeculated muscle, we applied Tinbergen’s four types of causation - how does it work, why does it work, how is it made, and why did it evolve - to better parse what is meant by form and function. The paper is structured around cases that highlight advantages and pitfalls of applying Tinbergen’s questions. It further uses the evolution of lunglessness in amphibians to argue lung reduction can impact on chamber septation, and it considers the evolution of an arterial outflow in fishes to argue that reductions in energy consumption may drive structural changes with little consequences to function. Concerning trabeculations, we argue they relate to pump function in the embryo in the couple of weeks before the onset of coronary circulation. In fetal and postnatal stages, a spectrum of trabeculated-to-compact myocardium makes no difference to cardiac function and in this period form and function may appear unrelated.

Porous structures and micropatterning surfaces play a crucial role in the development of highly sensitive force sensors. However, achieving these two conductive architectures typically requires complex materials synthesis and expensive manufacturing processes. In this study, we introduce a novel conductive composite film featuring a porous/micropyramid hybrid conductive architecture, which is achieved through a straightforward process of materials mixing and one-step screen printing. By utilizing a deep eutectic solvent in the ink component, micropores are induced in the printed composite, while the mesh of the screen mask acts as a template, resulting in a micropyramid film surface. We have successfully realized highly sensitive flexible force sensors with multifunctional capabilities for perceiving normal force and shear force.

The cuttlebone-like structure is a complex porous bionic structure with asymmetric sinusoidal S-shaped wall structure connecting laminar septa, and studies have shown that the cuttlebone-like structure has light weight, high strength and excellent energy absorption capability. It has become an important research to investigate the mechanical mechanism of cuttlebone-like structure and to design a bionic structure beyond nature structure based on it. In order to investigate the mechanical properties of the static compression and shearing processes of the cuttlebone-like structure, this paper establishes theoretical formulas and analyzes the influence of dimensionless parameters such as height-to-thickness ratio $\lambda$, period-to-thickness ratio $\xi$ and amplitude to period ratio $\eta$ on the compression and shearing processes with the help of ABAQUS finite element software.The parameter sensitivity analysis method was used to compare the important influence degree of each dimensionless parameter on the mechanical properties of the structure and to determine the relative optimal parameters of the structural mechanical properties under compression and shearing. Based on the relatively optimal parameter of the cuttlebone-like structure, the cross-sectional geometry of the structure is improved to build a new cuttlebone-like structure.The experimental results showed that the new cuttlebone-like structure with revised cross-section improved the mechanical properties of the cuttlebone-like structure.The study results are of theoretical guidance to enhance the mechanical properties and geometric design of cuttlebone-like structures.

Most fully developed galaxies have vivid spiral structure, but the formation and evolution of spiral structure is still a mystery that is not fully understood in astrophysics. We find that the currently used equations of galactic dynamics contain some unreasonable components. In this paper, the following three working assumptions are introduced to simplify the galactic structural equations. 1. In the research of large-scale structure, the retarded potential of the gravitational field should be taken into account. The propagating time of the gravitational field from center to border is longer than the revolution periods of the stars near the center of galaxy. Newton's gravitational potential is unreasonable for such case, and the weak field and low velocity approximation of Einstein's field equation should be adopted. 2. The stars in a fully developed galaxy should be zero-pressure and inviscid fluid, and the equation of motion is different from that of ordinary continuum mechanics. Stars move along geodesics. 3. The structure of the galaxy is only related to the total mass density distribution. The equation of state of dark halo is different from that of ordinary luminous interstellar matter, so their trajectories are also very different. Dark halo and ordinary matter in galaxy are automatically separated. The total mass density distribution can be presupposed according to the observation data, and then it can be determined by comparing the solution of the equations with the observed data. These assumptions and treatments are supported by theory and observation. The variables of the equations of simplified galactic dynamics are separated from each other, and the equations are well-posed and can be solved according to a definite procedure. Therefore, this simplified dynamic equation system provides a more reasonable and practical framework for the further study of galactic structure, and can solve many practical problems. Besides, it is closely related to the study of dark energy and dark matter.

The awareness of the existence in plants of bioactive compounds namely phytochemicals (PHYs), having health properties is progressively expanding. Therefore, their massive introduction in the normal diet, in food supplements, and their use as natural therapeutics to treat several diseases are increasingly emphasized by several sectors. Particularly, most PHYs possessing antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiulcer, anti-cholesterol, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties have been isolated from plants. Additionally, their secondary modification with new functionalities, to further improve their intrinsic beneficial effects, is extensively investigated. Unfortunately, although the idea of exploiting PHYs as therapeutics is amazing, its realization is far from simple, and the possibility of exploiting them as effective orally administrable drugs is almost utopic. Most PHYs are insoluble in water and, when introduced orally, they scarcely reach the site of action in therapeutic concentrations. Degradation by enzymatic and microbial digestion, occurring in the mouth, stomach, and intestine, as well as fast metabolism and rapid excretion via the kidney, biliary, or lung, strongly limit their in vivo activity. To overcome these drawbacks, several nanotechnological approaches have been used and many PHYs-loaded delivery systems with dimensions of nanometers have been developed. This paper, also by reporting various recent case studies, reviews the foremost nano-suspension and nano-emulsion-based techniques developed for formulating the most relevant PHYs in more bioavailable nanoparticles (NPs), suitable or promising for clinical application. Also, the acute and chronic toxic effects due to the exposure to NPs reported so far, the possible nanotoxicity which could derive by their massive employment, as well as the ongoing actions to improve the knowledge in the field were discussed. The state of the art concerning the actual clinical application of both PHYs and the nanotechnologically engineered PHYs was also reviewed.

In recent decades, perovskite-type compounds (ABB′O3) have been exhaustively studied due to their unique ferroelectric properties. In this work, a systematic study aiming to prepare fine particles in the binary system SrZrO₃–SrTiO₃ was conducted under hydrothermal conditions in a KOH (5 M) solution at 200 °C for 4 h under a constant stirring speed of 130 rpm. The precursors employed were SrSO₄ powder (< 38 μm size) and coprecipitated hydrous gels of Zr(OH)₄•9.64 H₂O (Zr-gel) and Ti(OH)₄•4.5H₂O (Ti-gel), which were mixed according to the stoichiometry of the SrZr_1-xTixO₃ in the compositional range of 0.0>x>100.0 mol% Ti⁴⁺. The XRD results revealed the formation of two crystalline phases rich in Zr⁴⁺, an orthorhombic structured SrZr0.93Ti0.07O3 and a cubic structured SrZr0.75Ti0.25O3 within the compositional range of 0.1–0.5 mol of Ti4+. A cubic perovskite-structured solid solution, SrTi1-xZrxO3, was preferentially formed within the compositional range of 0.5>x>0.1 mol% Ti⁴⁺. The SrZrO₃ and SrZr_0.93Ti_0.07O₃-rich phases had particle sizes averaging 3 m with a cubic morphology. However, a remarkable reduction in the particle size occurred on solid solutions prepared with hydrous Ti-gel over contents of 15 mol% Ti⁴⁺ in the reaction media, resulting in the formation of nanosized particles agglomerates with cuboidal shape self-assembled via a 3D hierarchical architecture, the sizes of these particles varied in the range between 141.0–175.5 nm. The limited coarsening of the particles is discussed based on the Zr-gel and Ti-gel dehydration capability differences that occurred under hydrothermal processing.

Alunogen, Al2(SO4)3·17H2O, occurs as an efflorescent in acid mine drainage, low-temperature fumarolic or pseudofumarolic (at coal fires) terrestrial environments. It is considered as one of the main Al-sulfates of Martian soils demanding comprehensive crystal chemical data of natural terrestrial samples. However, structural studies of natural alunogen were carried out in 1970s without localization of H atoms and have not previously been performed for samples from geothermal fields, despite the fact that these environments are considered as proxies of the Martian conditions. The studied alunogen sample comes from Verkhne-Koshelevsky geothermal field (Koshelev volcano, Kamchatka, Russia). Its chemical formula is somewhat dehydrated, Al2(SO4)3×15.8 H2O. The crystal structure was solved and refined to R1 = 0.068 based on 5112 unique observed reflections with I > 2σ(I). Alunogen crystalizes in P-1 space group, a = 7.4194(3), b = 26.9763(9), c = 6.0549(2) Å, α = 90.043(3), β = 97.703(3), γ = 91.673(3) °, V = 1200.41(7) Å3, Z = 2. The crystal structure consists of isolated SO4 tetrahedra, Al(H2O)6 octahedra and H2O molecules connected by hydrogen bonds. The structure refinement includes Al, S and O positions that are similar to previous structure determinations and thirty-four H positions localized for the natural sample first. The study also shows the absence of isomorphic substitutions in the composition of alunogen despite the iron-enriched environment of mineral crystallization. The variability of the alunogen crystal structure is reflected in the number of “zeolite” H2O molecules and their splitting. The structure complexity of alunogen and its modifications ranges from 333-346 bits/cell for models with non-localized H atoms to 783-828 bits/cell for models with localized H atoms. The higher values correspond to higher hydration state of alunogen.

Utilization of Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) model parameters obtained from the multi-angular remote sensing is one of the approaches for the retrieval of vegetation structural information. In this research, the potential of multi-angular vegetation indices, formulated by the combination of multi-spectral reflectance from different view angles, for the retrieval of forest above ground biomass was assessed. This research was implemented in the New England region with the availability of a high quality forest inventory database. The multi-angular vegetation indices were generated by the simulation of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) BRDF/Albedo Model Parameters Product (MCD43A1 Version 6) based BRDF parameters. The effects of seasonal (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) composites of the multi-angular vegetation indices on above ground biomass, angular relationship of the spectral reflectance with above ground biomass, and the interrelationships between the multi-angular vegetation indices were analyzed. Among the existing multi-angular vegetation indices, only the Nadir BRDF-adjusted NDVI ( and Hot-spot incorporated NDVI ( showed significant relationship (more than 50%) with the above ground biomass. This research proposed two more sensitive vegetation structural indices, Fore-scattering Back-scattering NDVI and Vegetation Structure Index (VSI). The Fore-scattering Back-scattering NDVI showed higher sensitivity (R² = 0.62, RMSE = 52.46) towards the above ground biomass than existing multi-angular vegetation indices. Furthermore, the VSI performed in the most efficient way explaining 64% variation of the above ground biomass, suggesting that the right choice of the spectral channel and observation geometry should be considered for improving the estimates of the above ground biomass. In addition, the right choice of seasonal data (summer) was found to be important for estimating the forest biomass while other seasonal data were either insensitive or pointless. The promising results shown by the VSI suggest that it could be an appropriate candidate for monitoring vegetation structure from the multi-angular satellite remote sensing.

Recently perovskite solar cells have been paying attention of researchers. This comes from their high efficiency and stability. In this work, the change of some Optical and Electrical Properties of BaxFe(1-x)TiO4 thin films due to the change of the nanocrystal spacing and size were studied. A simple theoretical model based on the string theory was utilized to explain some of these empirical relations. The empirical results obtained indicated that an increase in the efficiency of the nano solar cell requires the energy gap to be narrow. Decreasing the nanocrystal size and spacing caused the energy gap to become narrower. The energy gap decreases also upon increasing the absorption coefficient and decreasing the transmission. This also requires increasing the conductivity and the magnetic permeability. The increase of the nanocrystal spacing decreases the absorption coefficient, electrical conductivity, and magnetic permeability, while it causes the transmission to increase. All these changes are explained using a simple string model beside Newton's laws. The capability of the string theory to explain this Nano quantum behavior comes from the fact that the string theory, like quantum theory, recognizes both the particle and the wave nature of the Nano system.

Oral bone defects occur as a result of trauma, cancer, infections, periodontal diseases, and caries. Autogenic and allogenic grafts are the gold standard used to treat and regenerate damaged or defective bone segments. However, these materials do not possess the antimicrobial properties necessary to inhibit the invasion of the numerous deleterious pathogens present in the oral microbiota. In the present study poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp), and a commercial extract of Humulus lupulus L. (hops) were electrospun into polymeric matrices to assess their po-tential for drug delivery and bone regeneration. The fabricated matrices were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), FT-IR assay, and in vitro hydrolytic degradation. The antimi-crobial properties were evaluated against the oral pathogens Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The cytocompatibility was proved by the MTT assay. SEM analysis proved the nanostructured matrices have suitable fiber size. The present research provides new information about the interaction of natural compounds with ceramic and polymeric biomaterials. The hop extract and other natural or synthetic medicinal agents can be effectively loaded into PCL fibers and has the potential to be used in biomedical applications.

In this study, sodium alginate (SA) was oxidized with potassium periodate to produce an alginate-based tanning agent. Using OSA as a biodegradable tanning agent and a nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) low concentration suspension to give flame retardancy to leather, eco-design concepts were applied to establish a chrome-, aldehyde-, and phenol-free tanning process. Micro-DSC, 1H NMR, attenuated total reflection mode Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) were used to investigate the complex matrix collagen-OSA-nano-HAp. Micro-differential scanning calorimetry (micro-DSC) was used to assess OSA's ability to interact with collagen and stabilize the collagen-OSA matrix, while 1H unilateral nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to investigate the aqueous environment and limitations around collagen molecules caused by their association with OSA and nano-HAp. Industrial standard tests were used to assess mechanical properties and fire resistance of the new leather prototype. The findings reported here indicate that both OSA and nano-HAp are suitable alternatives for cleaner tanning technologies and more sustainable leather.

In recent years, frequent occurrences of low temperature disasters due to global climate change have significantly impacted the normal growth of crops. Research has indicated that inorganic selenium (which is more toxic) can not only enhance the effects of low temperature stress but also increase selenium content on plants; however, there is a scarcity of studies investigating the impacts of organic selenium and nano-selenium on crops. In order to investigate whether organic selenium and nano-selenium can enhance low-temperature tolerance and increase selenium content in pak choi (Brassica chinensis var. pekinensis. cv. ‘Suzhouqing’), different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20 mg L-1) of exogenous selenium were applied in this experiment to assess their effects on plant growth, nutritional quality and antioxidant properties. RNA-Seq technology was used to sequence the transcriptome of the leaves. Based on the transcriptome data, a Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was employed to construct a network that associates with physiological traits related to stress resistance. Two highly correlated gene co-expression modules were identified, and within them, nine hub genes associated with endocytosis, antioxidant stress, absorption, transport, and metabolism of selenium were discovered. The results indicated that the beneficial effects on yield and total selenium content under low temperature were attributed to (1) protection of photosynthetic pigments for enhancing photosynthetic capacity by the up-regulation of LHca2, LHcb1, LHca1, LHcb4 in KEGG pathway: photosynthesis-antenna proteins; (2) activation of antioxidant system for efficient ROS homeostasis such as SOD, POD and CAT by the genes such as Superoxide dismutase, Monodehydroascorbate and (3) selenium absorption by endocytosis, seleninum transportation by ABC transporter gene family and selenium metabolism related genes such as Cysteine synthase, Glutaredoxin. These findings provide a foundation for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of organic selenium and nano-selenium on cyanochloride production at low temperatures.

The creation of nano-zero-valent iron (nZVI) by implementing plant extracts is an environmentally friendly process. High antioxidant capacity and phenol content indicated the possibility of oak-nZVI synthesis using oak leaf extract as a stable material with minimal agglomeration. Simultaneously removal of Cd and phosphates and Ni and phosphates was optimized by a statistically designed experiment with a definitive screening design. In terms of significance, 4 input parameters on process productivity were monitored: initial metal concentration (1 - 9 mgL-1), initial ion concentration (1- 9 mgL-1), pH value (2 - 10) and oak-nZVI dosage (2 - 16 ml). Phosphate removal efficiency, in the presence of cadmium, was the most influenced by oak-nZVI dose and cadmium concentration, while pH gave three statistically significant interactions with oak-nZVI dosage, cadmium concentration, and phosphate concentration. Phosphate removal efficiency, in the presence of Ni, is the most influenced by nickel concentration, phosphate concentration, pH, two-factor interaction between nZVI dose and Ni concentration, and quadratic phosphate interaction. The process optimization yielded the highest simultaneous removal efficiency of 98.99% and 87.30% for cadmium and phosphate ions, respectively. Also, the highest simultaneous removal efficiency of nickel and phosphates ion was 93.44% for 96.75%, respectively. The optimization process fits into the confidence intervals, confirming the assumption that the adopted regression model describes the process well. This work demonstrated an enormous potential and prosperous application for the Cd(II), Ni(II), and phosphate removal from water matrices.

Using analysis methods such as Rutherford backscattering Spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy, the diffusion behavior of iodine in micro/nano-porous graphite under high-temperature conditions was studied. The results indicate that iodine diffusion leads to the contraction of graphite microcrystals, a decrease in interlayer spacing, and an increase in defect density, resulting in a reduction in microcrystal size. Upon diffusion of iodine out of iodine-loaded graphite, the microcrystal size of the graphite increases, the interlayer spacing appears to return to the initial state, and the defect density decreases. By comparing the iodine diffusion performance of nanoporous graphite G400 and G450 with microporous graphite G500, it was determined that nanoporous graphite exhibits better inhibition of iodine diffusion compared to microporous graphite. Studying the diffusion behavior of iodine in micro/nano-porous graphite has significant academic significance and engineering value for the screening, design, and performance optimization of nuclear graphite.

In this work the effect of recycled concrete aggregate modified with mineral admixtures and Nano-silica on the mechanical properties and performance of the concrete was investigated after curing in tap water for 28 and 90 days. The compressive, ƒc, indirect tensile, ƒt, and flexural, ƒb, strengths for cured concrete specimens were measured and concrete strength ratios were analyzed. The water and rapid chloride permeability were measured. SEM analysis of microstructure was, also, investigated. The coarse aggregates used were dolomite (control) and recycled concrete aggregate with the incorporation of different mineral admixtures including ground granulated blast slag and granite as well as Nano-silica. It was found that, the slump values of the dolomite concrete decreases compared with recycle aggregate concrete. The results indicate that, the concrete mix containing recycle aggregate have the highest compressive strength, tensile strength and flexural strength compered to concrete mix containing dolomite aggregate. As far as the compressive strength is concerned, the addition 1 % NS and 15 % of slag improved the physico-mechanical properties of the recycled aggregate concretes compared to the other mixes after curing in tap water.

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine has gradually evolved as a promising therapeutic strategy to the modern healthcare of the aging and diseased population. In this study, we developed a novel nano-fibrous scaffold and verified its application in the critical bone defect regeneration. The metformin-incorporated nano-gelatin/hydroxyapatite fibers (NGF) was produced by electrospinning, cross-linked, and then characterized by XRD and FTIR. Cytotoxicity, cells adhesion, cell differentiation, and quantitative osteogenic gene and protein expression were analyzed by bone marrow stem cells from rat. Rat forearm critical bone defect model was performed for the in vivo study. The nano-gelatin/hydroxyapatite fibers (NGF) were characterized by their porous structures with proper interconnectivity without significant cytotoxic effects; the adhesion of bone marrow stem cells on the nano-gelatin/hydroxyapatite fibers (NGF) could be enhanced. The osteogenic gene and protein expression were upregulated. Post implantation, the new regenerated bone in bone defect was well demonstrated in the NGF samples. We demonstrated that the metformin-incorporated nano-gelatin-hydroxyapatite fibers greatly improved healing potential on the critical sized bone defect. Although metformin-incorporated nano-gelatin/hydroxyapatite fibers had advantageous effectiveness during bone regeneration, further validation is required before it can be applied to clinical applications.

Phytophthora. infestans is a well known late blight causing oomycetes pathogen. It evolves and adapts to the host background and new fungicide molecules rapidly within a few years of their release, may be due to the predominance of transposable elements in its genome. Frequent and huge applications of fungicides cause environmental concerns. Here we developed target specific RNA interference based molecules, that are capable of effectively reducing the late blight infection. cDNA microarray expression data was used for the selection of genes involved in the early stage of infection process, sporulation etc. The in vitro synthesis of double stranded RNA molecule, targeting SDH, EF-1α, GPI-HAM344, PLD-3 and HSP-90 encoding genes revealed the reduction in growth, sporulation and symptom expression, which were subsequently assessed by culture bioassay, detached leaf assay and topical application methods. The multiple genes targeted dsRNA nano clay sprayed plants showed enhanced disease resistance (4% disease severity) and least sporulation (<1x103), compared to naked dsRNA spray. Use of nano clay was assumed to be involved in the effective delivery, protection and boosting the action of RNAi in potato plants. A significant difference in the growth, sporulation count, disease severity and reduced expression of the genes and confocal microscopy imaging authenticates the effects of SIGS on late blight disease progression. Our research demonstrated that topical dsRNA nano clay spray under the open-air environment could be an alternative to chemical fungicides and transgenic approaches as a novel plant protection strategy for late blight in an environmentally friendly manner.

Currently, metal nanoparticles have varied uses for different medical, pharmaceutical, and agricultural applications. Nano-biotechnology combined with green chemistry has great potential for the development of novel and necessary products that benefit human activities, while encourages the reduction of hazardous reagents for nanoparticle production. Green chemistry has an important role due to its contribution to unconventional synthesis methods of gold and silver nanoparticles from plant extracts, which have exhibited antimicrobial potential among other outstanding properties. Biodiversity-rich countries need to collect and convert knowledge from biological resources into processes, compounds, methods, and tools, which need to be achieved along with sustainable use and exploitation of biological diversity. Therefore, this review focuses on the importance of metal nanoparticles, the use of plant extract for their synthesis as well as other available methods, and the relevant antimicrobial activity that can be exploited in a sustainable model of agricultural management through a modern nanotechnological approach.

Porosity in plasma sprayed coatings is vital for most engineering applications. It is either advantageous or disadvantageous depending on the functionality of the coating and the immediate working environment. Consequently, the formation mechanisms and development of porosity has been extensively explored to find out modes of controlling porosity in plasma sprayed coatings. In this work, a comprehensive review of porosity on plasma sprayed coatings is established. The formation and development of porosity on plasma sprayed coatings are governed by set spraying parameters. Optimized set spraying parameters have been used to achieve the most favorable coatings with minimum defects. Even with the optimized set spraying parameters, defects like porosity still occur. Here, we discuss other ways that can be used to control porosity in plasma sprayed coating with emphasis to atmospheric plasma sprayed chromium oxide coatings. Techniques like multi-layer coatings, nano-structured coatings, doping with rare earth elements, laser surface re-melting and a combination of the above methods have been suggested in adjusting porosity. The influences of porosity on properties of plasma sprayed coatings and the measurement methods of porosity have also been reviewed.

Traditional silicon binary circuits continue to face challenges such as high leakage power dissipation and large area of interconnections. Multiple-Valued Logic (MVL) and nano-devices are two feasible solutions to overcome these problems. In this paper, we present a novel method to design ternary logic circuits based on Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistors (CNFETs). The proposed designs use the unique properties of CNFETs, e.g., adjusting the Carbon Nanotube (CNT) diameters to have the desired threshold voltage and have the same mobility of P-FET and N-FET transistors. Each of our designed logic circuits implements a logic function and its complementary via a control signal. Also, these circuits have a high impedance state which saves power while the circuits are not in use. We show a more detailed application of our approach by designing a two-digit adder-subtractor circuit. We simulate the proposed ternary circuits using HSPICE via standard 32nm CNFET technology. The simulation results indicate the correct operation of the designs under different process, voltage and temperature (PVT) variations. Moreover, we designed a two-digit adder/subtractor and a power efficient ternary logic ALU based on the proposed gates. Simulation results show that the two-digit adder/subtractor using our proposed gates has 12X and 5X lower power consumption and PDP (power delay product) respectively, compared to previous designs.

Metal and alloy toughening was the core and long-term research direction in materials filed. As grain size had bimodal distribution, micro/nano-structured alloys presented excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, and this had become one of the research hotspots and developing trends in the field of nanotechnology. In-situ tensile test was a direct and effective method to study the deformation mechanism of materials, which revealed the multiple mechanisms responding to feature grain sizes and provided reliable experimental means and research technique. Research on development of in-situ technique and its applications in mechanical properties was reviewed in this paper according to the recent advances on the modern mechanical properties for high strength and high plasticity alloy at home and abroad. The disadvantages of the present study of preparation methods and investigation techniques for high-performance alloy had been concluded. Finally, the development prospects of high strength and high plasticity alloy materials were analyzed.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major medical health burden and leading cause of chronic liver disease and cancer worldwide. More than 58 million people are chronically infected with HCV, with 1.5 million new infections occurring each year. An effective HCV vaccine is a major public health and medical need as recognized by the World Health Organization. However, due to the high variability of the virus and its ability to escape the immune response, HCV rapidly accumulates mutations making a vaccine a formidable challenge. An effective vaccine must elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) in a consistent fashion. After decades of studies from basic research through clinical development, the antigen of choice is considered to be the E1E2 envelope glycoprotein due to conserved, broadly neutralizing antigenic domains located in the constituent subunits of E1, E2, and the E1E2 heterodimeric complex itself. The challenge has been elicitation of robust humoral and cellular responses leading to broad virus neutralization due to the relatively low immunogenicity of this antigen. In view of this challenge, structure-based vaccine design approaches to stabilize key antigenic domains have been hampered due to the lack of E1E2 atomic-level resolution structures to guide them. Another challenge has been development of a delivery platform in which a multivalent form of the antigen can be presented in order to elicit a more robust anti-HCV immune response. Recent nanoparticle vaccines are gaining prominence in the field due to their ability to facilitate a controlled multivalent presentation and trafficking to lymph nodes, where they can interact with both the cellular and humoral components of the immune system. This review focuses on recent advances in understanding the E1E2 heterodimeric structure to facilitate a rational design approach and the potential for development of a multivalent nanoparticle-based HCV E1E2 vaccine. Both aspects are considered important in the development of an effective HCV vaccine that can effectively address viral diversity and escape.

Soil structure is a sensitive and dynamic soil physical property which responds rapidly to different tillage systems, and thus it requires constant monitoring and evaluation. The visual evaluation of soil structure (VESS) and subsoil visual evaluation of soil structure (SubVESS) methods were used to assess the soil structure quality of clayey soils subjected to different tillage systems. The tillage systems were no-tillage (NT), conventional tillage (CT) and virgin land (VG). The study was conducted at Tshivhilwi and Dzingane in Thohoyandou, Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The NT system was practised for 8 and 40+ years at Tshivhilwi and Dzingahe, respectively. The results showed no impact of tillage system on both VESS and SubVESS at Tshivhilwi. The soil structure quality at Tshivhilwi as determined by VESS and SubVESS were found to be poor. However, at Dzingahe, both the VESS and SubVESS responded to the impact of tillage. At Dzingahe VESS showed a fair (Sq = 2.25) soil structural quality in the NT system, poor (Sq = 3.57) in the CT system and moderately poor (Sq = 3.05) in the VG. Similarly, at the same location the SubVESS scores were moderately good in the NT system, moderately poor for CT system and fair in the VG. The differences in the response of the VESS and SubVESS at the two locations were attributed to the differences in the duration at which the NT systems were practised. The VESS and SubVESS results were supported by selected measured soil physicochemical properties such as bulk density and porosity. In conclusion, the findings of this study showed that the VESS and SubVESS were able to effectively differentiate the impact of tillage systems on soil structural quality in clayey soils where NT was practised for a long period (40+ years) while it could not where NT was practised for a few years (8 years).

Multipactor is a common discharge phenomenon occurred in space microwave systems. The surface microstructure has been verified to be effective to mitigate multipactor. In this work, we design a square coaxial low-pass filter (SCLPF) with dielectric sheets loaded to check the multipactor dependence on the structure parameters of the loaded dielectric sheets, and further model groove structures on the sensitive area surface to lower the risk of multipactor. Simulation results indicate that the SCLPF loaded with alumina and PTFE exhibits good operational characteristics, and the multipactor threshold is significantly improved after introducing the surface grooves. Then we investigate the effects of three typical groove parameters, groove depth, groove number, and aspect ratio, on the multipactor threshold of the SCLPF device. The results show that the multipactor threshold raise at first as the groove number and groove depth increase, and then the threshold reaches a saturation status. For a deeper analysis of multipactor, we discuss how the grooves shelter the secondary electrons, and further mitigate the electron avalanche. Furthermore, the mechanisms of threshold saturation under the effect of groove parameters are analyzed in detail, and a contour map for the multipactor threshold of PTFE-loaded SCLPFs is given, which makes significant sense for predicting the multipactor threshold of the devices with its sensitive surface being grooved. The regularity of modulating the multipactor threshold by the groove structures obtained in this study is of engineering significance for suppressing multipactor in microwave devices in practical applications.

With the rapid development of the Internet industry, the problem of information overload has arisen due to the abundance of information available online. Recommendation algorithms, as the core of recommendation systems, have been attracting much attention and are a hot topic of research for many experts and scholars. The classical recommendation algorithms are mainly divided into three major categories: collaborative filtering recommendation algorithms, content-based recommendation algorithms, and hybrid-based recommendation algorithms. Although these algorithms are widely used in various fields, with the proliferation of information, these traditional recommendation algorithms are no longer able to meet the needs of the times. To address this issue, recommendation systems have been developed to provide users with personalized and relevant information or products. Despite the wide use of recommendation algorithms, such as collaborative filtering, content-based filtering, and hybrid approaches, traditional recommendation algorithms have limitations and are no longer suitable for meeting the demands of the times. This paper proposes a new recommendation algorithm, SFRRG, that fuses structure and feature information in graph neural networks to improve the performance of the recommendation system in rating prediction. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through experiments on various data sets and compared with existing recommendation algorithms.

The determination of the three-dimensional structure is a key step for the identification of new targets as well as the rational design of bioactive compounds. Herein, we report the synthesis and the structural elucidation of novel tetrameric macrocycles. Measurements were taken in solid and solution states with the help of X-ray scattering and NMR spectroscopy. The investigations made will help to find diverse applications for this new, promising compound class.

Due to the vast conformational space proteins can adopt, accurate and efficient prediction of protein structure remains still a challenging task, coupled with the intricacies of interatomic interactions and the limitations of current computational models in effectively navigating this complex molecular landscape. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive experimental data for all protein structures further exacerbates the difficulty in reliable machine learning-based prediction of the three-dimensional conformations of the proteios building block of life. Geometrically, Cartesian coordinate system (CCS, X, Y and Z) and spherical coordinate system (SCS, ρ, θ and φ) are two interconvertible coordinate systems, and are like two sides of one coin. Since the beginning of Protein Data Bank (PDB) in 1971, CCS has been the default approach to specify atomic positions with X, Y and Z in PDB. In this manuscript, therefore, I present a novel method for the reversible spherical geometric conversion of protein backbone structure coordinate matrices to three independent vectors: ρ, θ and φ. This reversible conversion facilitates lossless extraction of essential structural features from protein backbone structural data, enabling the development of advanced novel algorithms for protein structure prediction in future. In short, this inter-atomic SCS approach offers a comprehensive yet efficient means of representing protein backbone geometry, leveraging spherical coordinates to capture spatial relationships in a compact and intuitive inter-atomic manner, and to provide a robust framework for reversible feature extraction for the ongoing efforts in advancing the field of protein structure prediction, the holy grail of computational structural biology.

This paper introduces an innovative approach to numerically model Structure-Soil-Structure Interaction (SSSI) by integrating the Boundary Element Method (BEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM) in a coupled manner. To assess the accuracy of the proposed method, a comparative study is undertaken, comparing its outcomes with those generated by the conventional FEM technique. Alongside accuracy, the computational efficiency aspect is crucial for the analysis of large-scale SSSI problems. Hence, the computational performance of the coupled BEM-FEM method undergoes a thorough examination and is compared with that of the standalone FEM method. The results from these comparisons illustrate the superior capabilities of the proposed method in comparison to the FEM method. The novel approach provides more reliable results compared to traditional FEM methods, serving as a valuable tool for engineers and researchers involved in structural analysis and design.

This paper investigates the hydroelastic responses of offshore floating solar photovoltaic farms (OFPVs) to minimize structural motion. The OFPV usually occupies a large sea space in the order of hectares and due to its huge structural length-to-thickness ratio, the structural deformation under wave action has to be taken into consideration. The flexible deformation of the structure under hydrodynamic loading is termed the hydroelastic response. Due to the relatively long structural length with respect to the encountering wavelength, the diffraction and radiation of waves have to be taken into account to accurately represent the hydrodynamic loadings on the floating platform. The numerical model is first validated by comparing the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the OFPV obtained from the proposed numerical scheme with their counterparts obtained from an established finite element software. This is followed by the investigation of the hydroelastic response of various OFPVs designed in varying layout configurations. The various layout configurations are obtained by altering the floating modular units’ dimensions as well as the spacing of the OFPVs when deployed adjacent to each other. The optimal configuration that gives the best performance in terms of the overall smallest response, known as compliance, is then suggested. The results suggest that a longish OFPV layout has a lower hydroelastic response and the motion could be further reduced by increasing the global flexural stiffness via layout arrangement.

In this research, a design method for the graded triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures with lightweight, high-strength, and high sound absorption properties is proposed. The graded TPMS structures are controlled by linear, quadratic, and sine functions. Uniform TPMS and graded TPMS were manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) with AlSi7Mg powder, and an acoustic impedance tube test, compression test, and digital image correlation (DIC) test were ap-plied to obtain the sound absorption and compression properties. The sound absorption coefficient of a uniform Gyroid increases as the number of layers and surface thickness increase, and it in-creases as element size decreases. The sound absorption peak shifts to low frequencies as the number of layers increases. The sound absorption property of Type-Ⅰ graded TPMS is superior to the Type-Ⅱ, and the G-LinearⅠ has the highest sound absorption properties among the three functions. It reveals that the graded TPMS has superior sound absorption performance at low and medium frequencies. The compression and DIC results of graded TPMS also show excellent mechanical properties and energy absorption characteristics.

By taking advantage of a stability criterion established recently, the critical temperature T_c is reckoned with help of the microscopic parameters, characterising the normal and superconducting electrons, namely the independent-electron band structure and a repulsive two-electron force. The emphasis is laid on the sharp T_c dependence upon electron concentration and inter-electron coupling, which might offer a practical route toward higher T_c values and help to understand why high-T_c compounds exhibit such remarkable properties.

In the Standard Model of elementary particles, the rest mass, magnetic moment and electric charge of the electron are considered to be natural constants. In this article it is proposed that these properties can be calculated in a simple way from the corresponding Planck units using the well-known period doubling phenomenon in nonlinear dynamical systems. Periods corresponding to the values of the electron and positron properties belong to a subset of stable periods. The periodic structures of the rest energy and magnetic moment consist of three internal degrees of freedom, whereas the Coulomb energy of the electric charge consists of four. The number of period doublings for the elementary charge determines the value of the fine structure constant alpha.

Transient flows result in unbalanced forces and high pressure in pipelines. Under these conditions, the combined effects of flow-induced forces along with sudden pipe displacements can create cracks in the pipeline, especially at the junctions. This situation consequently results in water leakage and reduced operational efficiency of the pipeline. In this study, displacements and stresses in a buried pressurized water transmission pipe installed by pipe jacking method are investigated using numerical modeling and considering interactions between fluid, pipe, and soil. The analyses were performed consecutively under no-flow, steady flow, and transient flow conditions, in order to investigate the effects of flow conditions on displacements and stresses in the system. Analyses of the results show that displacements and stresses in the jointed concrete pipes are significant under transient flow conditions. Moreover, because of pressure transient effects, maximum tensile stresses exceed the tensile strength of concrete at the junctions, leading to cracks and consequent water leakage.

With the increasing demand for energy worldwide, researchers from different fields have been striving to improve the sustainability and proper utilization of energy resources. Passive radiative cooling, as a natural energy transport method, can achieve cooling without additional external energy input. This review provides a comprehensive examination of passive radiative cooling, including its fundamental theories and latest development. A particular emphasis is placed on the diverse range of fields where passive radiative cooling has been applied, notably including but not limited to construction and architecture. The current state of applications, potential challenges that may arise with wider adaption and promising research directions for each field are thoroughly discussed. This review underscores the universal applicability and feasibility of passive radiative cooling and contributes to its future development by identifying promising areas for further exploration.

This study investigates the contribution of nano-alumina (nA: 1-3wt.% binder) to the performance of silica fume (SF-10%) blended mortar in ternary blended mortar. The fresh (workability, setting time) and hardened properties (compressive strength and thermal resistance (300 °C for 1 h)), were examined. Nano alumina (nA) contributed positively to the consistency of SF blended mortar such that similar workability could be achieved with OPC when 3% nA was added. The initial and final setting time of 180 and 220 mins were recorded in SF blended mortar and reduced by 18.4 and 21.8%, respectively by adding 3%nA. The optimum mixture that contained 10%SF and 2%nA had 3-d and 28-d compressive strengths of 28 and 43.2 MPa. In the absence of nA, this reduced by 14.3% and 29.4% while it reduced by 25.2% and 16.7%, respectively in OPC mortar. The main products characterizing SF-nA ternary blended binder with dense microstructural density were nepheline and tobermorite. Besides, it is more susceptible to carbonation despite its superior performance in thermal resistance when compared to SF blended and OPC mortars.

This paper describes the packaging models that are fundamental for the design of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), and their evolution. They are divided into two large groups: continuous and discrete models. The latter are those that provide the best answer in obtaining an adequate simulation of the packing of the particles up to nanometric size. This includes the interaction among the particles by means of loosening and wall coefficients, allowing a simulation of the virtual and real compactness of such particles. In addition, a relationship between virtual and real compactness is obtained, through the compaction index, which may simulate the energy of compaction that the particles undergo in their placement in the mold. The use of last-generation additives allows such models to be implemented with water-cement (w/c) ratios close to 0.18. However, the premise of maximum packing as a basic pillar for the production of UHPC should not be the only one. The cement hydration process affected by nanoadditions and the ensuing effectiveness in the properties in both fresh and hardened state according to the respective percentages in the mixture should also be studied. An adequate ratio and proportion of these additions may lead to an obtaining of better results even with lower levels of compactness.

At present, the world is now passing a very far different time than normal situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The global life-style and human civilization is currently progressing with down-stream that affecting almost every sectors necessary for human civilizations except the current environmental situation. To control the COVID-19 spreading, most of the countries are following lockdown process that reduces human mobility, thus reducing the CO2 emission to the environment. Though the COVID-19 pandemic is a blessing for the present environment, however, the post-COVID world will face a massive thrust of energy and only conventional energy resources may not be enough to mitigate the energy demands. Solar power generation technology mainly the photovoltaic (PV) systems and their advancement can be the leading possibilities to minimize the gap between the power demand and generation. It is now time to think how we can improve the PV power generation in future and the post-COVID world. In this encyclopaedia communication, we report on Nano-technological approach to improve the conversion efficiency of GaAs solar cells. We have designed and optimized several types of nano-structured assemblies that can be implemented to reduce the front surface incident light reflection losses thus can assist to improve the conversion efficiency of GaAs solar cells.

The science on the anthropogenic airborne aerosols impacting upon the World Heritage marble monument, the Taj Mahal, at Agra has been studied in the light of modern physico-chemical approaches. The study is an effort to understand yet unrecognized airborne species which were found on the surface of the Taj Mahal monument. These species have been analyzed in the light of current analytical methods to impart characterization features and their possible impacts on the surface of the marble. Chemical constituents of these substrates which were incorporated over the top surface of the monument have been identified. Interestingly, the carbon particulates which were thought in the micro level, popularly called “particulate matters” has now been identified even in the nano domain entity, which are chemically more reactive, have been found on the surface of the monument. Because of their high chemical activity these nano carbons do play newer chemistry in the presence of air and sunlight generating several reactive oxygen species (ROS).These ROS are capable to respond to complicated chemical reactions on the surface of the marble in association with deposited cyanophyceae and other deposits of plant origin causing rapid degradation. This study provides the nature of onslaught borne out by such monument exposed under the prevalent smoggy environmental scenario.

The effect of γ-ray irradiation on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing capability of refractive index (n = 1.418–1.448) of the silica glass optical fiber comprised of germano-silicate glass cladding embedded with Au nano-particles (NPs) was investigated. As the γ-ray irradiation increased from 1 hour to 3 hours with the dose rate of 1,190 Gy/h, the morphology of the Au NPs and the SPR spectrum were found to change. The average diameter of Au NPs increased with the aspect ratio from 1 to 2 and the nano-particles became grown to the clusters. The SPR peak wavelength shifted towards longer wavelength with the increase of total dose of γ-ray irradiation regardless of the corresponding refractive indices. The SPR sensitivities (wavelength/refractive index unit, nm/RIU) also increased from 407 nm/RIU to 3,553 nm/RIU, 1,483 nm/RIU, and 2,335 nm/RIU after the γ-ray irradiation at the total dose of 1,190 Gy, 2,380 Gy, and 3,570 Gy, respectively.

Biocompatible polymeric materials with potential to form functional structures in association with different therapeutic molecules have a high potential for biological, medical and pharmaceutical applications. Therefore, the protective capability of the inclusion nano-Complex formed between the sodium salt of poly(maleic acid-alt-octadecene) and a β-lactam drug (ampicillin trihydrate) on the chemical, enzymatic and biological degradation was evaluated. PAM-18Na was produced and characterized as reported previously. The formation of polymeric hydrophobic aggregates in aqueous solution was determined, using pyrene as a fluorescent probe. Furthermore, the formation of polymer-drug nano-complexes was characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry-DSC, viscometric, ultrafiltration/centrifugation assays, zeta potential and size measurements by dynamic light scattering-DLS. The PAM-18Na capacity to avoid the chemical degradation was studied through stress stability tests. The enzymatic degradation was evaluated from a pure β-lactamase, while the biological degradation was determined by different β-lactamase producing Staphylococcus aureus strains. When ampicillin was associated with PAM-18Na, the half-life time in acidic conditions increased, whereas both the enzymatic degradation and the minimum inhibitory concentration decreased to a 90 and 75%, respectively. These results suggest a promissory capability of this polymer to protect the β-lactam drugs against chemical, enzymatic and biological degradation.

Prolonged high-intensity grinding can modify the crystal structure of solid substances and/or induce chemical reaction, which is referred to as mechanochemical reaction. Such reactions can exert positive influences on hydrometallurgical processes, therefore, many researchers have applied mechanochemical reactions for metals dissolution from minerals. The mechanism of mechanochemical reaction has been investigated using solid analyses and simulations. Structural changes caused by mechanochemical reaction are not yet sufficiently clarified because the ground samples are amorphous. The objective of this study was to analyze structural changes of cerianite in weathered residual rare earth ore by mechanochemical reduction. Structural change was analyzed by x-ray absorption near-edge structure and extended x-ray absorption fine structure analysis at the cerium L_III- and K-edges. These analyses revealed that the structural change of cerianite in this ore induced by mechanochemical reduction involved oxygen vacancy production. The process of the oxygen vacancy formation was closely coupled with the quantum effect of localization–delocalization of the 4f electron of cerium.

We have proposed a data-driven approach for designing mesoscale porous structures of Li-ion battery electrode with three-dimensional virtual structures and machine learning techniques. Over 2,000 artificial 3D structures assuming positive electrode composed of random packed spheres as active material particles are generated, and charge/discharge resistance has been evaluated using simplified Physico-chemical model. In this model, resistance from Li diffusion in active material particles (diffusion resistance), transfer resistance of Li+ in electrolyte (electrolyte resistance) and reaction resistance on the interface between active material and electrolyte are simulated based on mass balance of Li, Ohm’s law in and linearized Butler-Volmer equation, respectively. Using these simulation results, regression models via Artificial Neural Network (ANN) have been created in order to predict charge/discharge resistance from porous structure features. In this study, porosity, active material particle size and volume fraction, pressure in the compaction process, electrolyte conductivity, and binder volume fraction are adopted as features, associated with controllable process parameters for manufacturing battery electrode. As results, the predicted electrode resistance by ANN regression model is good agreement with the simulated values. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis and optimization of the process parameters have been carried out. The proposed data-driven approach could be a solution as a guiding principle for manufacturing battery electrode.

Grape dehydration is practiced widely in the food industry with large yields of sultanas produced globally. This paper proposes an investigation into grape microstructure changes as it is dried by imaging specimens at intervals during dehydration at two temperatures using scanning electron microscopy. Detailed images of the microstructure were obtained, and a unique image processing algorithm was developed to quantitatively analyse the properties of this microstructure. Two main methods were developed to obtain the complex boundaries of cells present in the grape tissue in over 36 SEM images. Segmentation of the binary image using an adapted watershed function obtained the most consistent and accurate morphological shape. This was compared to a secondary method which used Canny’s edge detection function, morphological closing and skeletonizing to outlines the cellular microstructure. MATLAB was utilised to convert these boundaries into measurable areas so that quantitative data on average cell area, perimeter and cell axis lengths was acquired. It was found that over drying time cell area and perimeter reduced as expected. Some variability in the data was clear due to only single samples being analysed for each temperature and time combination. The development of automatic image processing techniques will enable quantitative data to be extracted from these images. Trends in cell perimeter, diameter and shape will be used to demonstrate relationships between morphological structure, drying temperature, and duration.

In this study we have investigated the effect of the addition of Nb2O5 (up to 5 mol%) on the structure and luminescent properties of ZnO-B2O3 glass doped with 0.5 mol % Eu2O3 by using of infrared (IR), Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Physical properties as molar volume, oxygen packing density and glass transition temperature were determined using the results of differential thermal analyisis (DTA) and Archimedes principle for density. IR and Raman spectra revealed that niobium ions incorporate into the base zinc borate glass as NbO4 trtraherda and NbO6 octahedra. A strong red emission from the 5D0 level of Eu3+ ions was registered under near UV (392 nm) excitation using the sharp 7F0 - 5L6 transition of Eu3+. The integrated fluorescence intensity ratio R (5D0 → 7F2/5D0 → 7F1) was calculated to estimate the degree of asymmetry around the active ion, suggesting a location of Eu3+ in non-centrosymmetric sites. The higher Еu3+ luminescence emission observed in zinc borate glasses containing 1÷5 mol% Nb2O5 compared to the Nb2O5-free zinc borate glass evidences that Nb2O5 is suitable component for modification of host glass structure and improving the emission intensity.

In this paper, the sol−gel method was used to synthesize powders of LaMnO3 (LMO), La0.85Ca0.15MnO3 (LCM), and La0.85Sr0.15MnO3 (LSM). We investigated the impact of substituting Ca and Sr at the A−site on the perovskite crystal structure and electrochemical capabilities of LMO. LCM retained its orthogonal structure in comparison to the parent LMO components, whereas LSM transitioned to a rhombic structure. At 0.5 A/g, the specific capacitance of LCM and LSM electrodes is 185.5 F/g and 248 F/g, respectively.The specific capacitance of LCM was more three times than that of the LMO electrode. Among the three samples (LMO, 22.25 m2 g−1; LSM, 31.56 m2 g−1), the LCM sample exhibited the highest specific surface area of 38.79 m2 g−1. The charge transfer resistances of the LMO, LCM, and LSM are 0.48 Ω, 0.36 Ω, and 0.38 Ω, correspondingly. The LCM electrode exhibits the greatest capacitance performance due to its more refined morphology, increased concentration of oxygen vacancy, and more complete utilization of the perovskite bulk structure. The above results demonstrate that Ca or Sr substitution of A−site compounds has great potential for supercapacitor applications.

Herpesviridae is a family of enveloped double-stranded DNA viruses that cause a wide range of diseases in hosts. Among the various components of herpesvirus particles, tegument proteins residing between the envelop and nucleocapsid play crucial roles in viral replication, immune evasion, and modulation of host cellular pathways. Understanding the three-dimensional structure of herpesvirus tegument proteins help to reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the crosstalk with other viral and cellular components, and thus is crucial for the investigation of their biological and pathological functions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the structural features of herpesvirus tegument proteins, highlighting the structure-based functional implications, including the potential as targets for antiviral drug development.

Hong Kong was under strike from Super Typhoon Saola (2309), necessitating the issuance of the highest tropical cyclone warning signal. Saola skirted past the south-southwest of Hong Kong, bringing hurricane force winds and significant storm surge. Saola had its closest approach to Hong Kong on 1 September 2023, posing a unique challenge in forecasting and early warning for the commencement date of the new school term, where higher impact to traffic and public safety was anticipated. This paper covers the challenges on the forecasting aspect of the super typhoon. The predicted tropical cyclone track, intensity and wind structure are reviewed. Experience in this case showed that while there was not a perfect numerical weather prediction model in terms of the forecast track, intensity and wind structure of Saola, multi-model approach provided very use-ful and crucial information for operational weather warning services.

: Extra- and intra-cellular activity occurs under the direction of numerous inter-molecular interactions, and in any tissue or cell, molecules are densely packed, thus promoting those molecular interactions. Galectins and chemokines, the focus of this review, are small, protein effector molecules that mediate various cellular functions, in particular cell adhesion and migration, as well as cell signaling/activation. In the past, researchers have reported that combinations of these (and other) effector molecules act separately, yet sometimes in concert, but nevertheless physically apart and via their individual cell receptors. This view that each effector molecule functions independently of the other limits our thinking about functional versatility and cooperation, and, in turn, ignores the prospect of physiologically important inter-molecular interactions, especially when both molecules are present or co-expressed in the same cellular environment. This review is focused on such protein-protein interactions with chemokines and galectins, their homo- and hetero-oligomeric structures that they can form, and the functional consequences of those paired interactions.

Ethylene is an ideal CO2 product in an electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), which has high economic value. In this paper, Al–doped octahedral Cu2O (Al–Cu2O) catalyst was synthesized by a simple wet chemical method. The selectivity of CO2RR products was improved by doping Al onto the surface of octahedral Cu2O by regulating the Al content. The Al–Cu2O was used as an efficient electrocatalyst for CO2RR with selective ethylene production. The Al–Cu2O exhibited a high Faradic efficiency (FEC2H4) of 44.9% at -1.23 V (vs. RHE) in CO2 saturated 0.1 M KHCO3 electrolyte. Charge transferring from Al atom to Cu atom take place after Al doping in Cu2O, thereby optimizing the electronic structure, which facilitates CO2RR to ethylene production. The DFT calculation showed that the Al–Cu2O catalyst can effectively reduce the adsorption energy of the *CHCOH intermediate and promote the mass transfer of charges, thus improving the FEC2H4. After Al doping into Cu2O, the center of d orbitals shift positively, which makes the d–band closer to the Fermi level. Furthermore, the density of electronic states increases, which was conducted to the interaction between Cu atoms and intermediates, thus accelerating the electrochemical CO2 reduction process. This work proved that the metal doping strategy can effectively improve the catalytic properties of Cu2O, thus providing a useful way for CO2 cycling and green production of C2H4.

The composition, structure and functionalities of prolamins from highland barley was investigated. These parameters of was compared with the widely applied prolamins (zein). There are more charged and hydrophilic amino acids in prolamins from highland barley than zein. The molecu-lar weight of prolamins from highland barley were between 30 to 63 kDa, which was larger than zein (20 to 24 kDa). β-turn helices is the main secondary structure in prolamins from highland barley, while α-helical structure is the main secondary structure in zein. The water holding capacity, thermal stability, emulsifying capacity and stability of prolamins from highland barley is quite lager than zein, while opposite results can be observed for oil absorption capacity. The diameter of fibers prepared with prolamins from highland barley was almost 6 times that of zein, while ribbon structures rather than fibers were formed by prolamins from highland barley. The results would provide the guidance for application of prolamins from highland barley.

Montes de María is the best-preserved tropical dry forest fragment in the Colombian Caribbean, making it an ideal location for studying the impacts of human disturbance on local ecosystems. This study analyzed the ecological structure of diurnal butterflies in both forested and disturbed areas using 16 circular plots to identify relationships between alpha and beta diversity, and the geographic distance between disturbed areas and native forests, using a range of metrics, including range-abundance and rarefaction curves, nonlinear models, and the Bray–Curtis dissimilarity index. Results revealed three distinct species assemblages associated with forest, intermediate disturbed areas (IDA), and disturbed areas (DA). Nonlinear models show that IDA are more diverse than forest and DA. However, forests have more beta diversity among plots than IDA and DA. Indicator species for each butterfly assemblage were also identified. Thus, although new butterfly species assemblages emerge from a new human land-scape, it is clear that species that only occur within dry forest fragments are lost when forest fragments disappear. Overall, these findings have important implications for conservation efforts and understanding how human disturbance affects biodiversity in tropical ecosystems.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded RNAs (EBERs) are structurally conserved small, noncoding RNAs constitutively expressed in EBV infection. Although primarily localised in the nucleus, EBERs are found in the cytoplasm and exosomes. However, the mechanism(s) of EBERs transport is not known. This study aimed to investigate the structural impact of EBER1 on its transport. EBER1 stem-loop (SL) deletion mutants (ΔSL1, ΔSL3 and ΔSL4) were created and stably transfected into HEK293T cells. The expression of EBER1 was quantified in total cell, nuclear, cytoplasmic and exosomal fractions. The quantification was performed in the presence of physiological expression of RPL22 and La, and after silencing them. These proteins are believed to be involved in EBER1 transport and secretion. Compared to the wildtype EBER1 transfectants, the expression level of EBER1 gene in all mutants was significantly lower in the total cell, cytoplasmic and exosomal fractions. However, ΔSL3 mutant showed significant nuclear retention. Silencing RPL22 resulted in increased nuclear-cytoplasmic trafficking of EBER1. Silencing La protein did not affect EBER1 secretion. Alternatively, the store-operated intracellular Ca2+ was found to correlate with EBER1 expression in exosomes. Taken together, EBER1 structure and its interaction with RPL22 appeared to be important in the nuclear-cytoplasmic transport of the RNA.

Bunyaviruses represent the largest group of RNA viruses, and are the causative agent of a variety of febrile and hemorrhagic illnesses. Originally characterized as a single serotype in Africa, the number of described bunyaviruses now exceeds over 500, with its presence detected around the world. These predominantly tri-segmented, single-stranded RNA viruses are transmitted primarily through arthropod and rodent vectors, and can infect a wide variety of animal and plants. Although encoding for a small number of proteins, these viruses can inflict potentially fatal disease outcomes, and have even developed strategies to suppress the innate antiviral immune mechanisms of the infected host. This short review will attempt to provide an overall description of the order Bunyavirales, describing the mechanisms behind their infection, replication and their evasion of the host immune response. Furthermore, the historical context of these virus will be presented, starting from their original discovery almost 80 years ago, to the most recent research pertaining to viral replication and host immune response.

The present work reports on the calculated electronic and magnetic structure of the binary Co-Ga system at high Co content. β-CoGa adopts a simple cubic CsCl type structure. Well-ordered CoGa does not exhibit collective magnetism but is a paramagnetic, metallic compound. Neither Co nor Ga deficiency induces magnetic order, however, ferromagnetism is observed for Co-Ga anti-site disorder. The magnetic moment per cell increases up to about 1.2 μB in the completely disordered body centered cubic structure. With increasing Co content, Co1+xGa1−x maintains the CsCl type structure and becomes ferromagnetic. Most important, a discontinuity of the magnetic order with composition is observed at about 10% excess Co, where a change from a low magnetic moment state to a high moment state is observed. This is accompanied by a change in the electronic structure and transport properties. The discontinuity is forced by the increasing exchange splitting related to the localized moment of the additional Co atoms that replace Ga. Subsequently, the magnetic moment increases continuously up to 2.5 μB for x=0.6. For x≳0.6, the structure changes to face centered cubic with random site occupation and the magnetic moment further increases. Above the magnetic discontinuity, the Curie temperature increases linearly with the Co content from the onset of ferromagnetism, until it reaches its maximum in pure Co.

A model for parasitic motility has been proposed in which parasite filamentous actin (F-actin) is attached to surface adhesins by a large component of the glideosome, known as the glideosome-associated connector protein (GAC). This large 286 kDa protein interacts at the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane with the phosphatidic acid-enriched inner leaflet and cytosolic tails of surface adhesins to connect them to the parasite actomyosin system. GAC is observed initially to the conoid at the apical pole and re-localised with the glideosome to the basal pole in gliding parasite. GAC presumably functions in force transmission to surface adhesins in the plasma membrane and not in force generation. Proper connection between F-actin and the adhesins is as important for motility and invasion as motor operation itself. This notion highlights the need for new structural information on GAC interactions, which has eluded the field since its discovery. We have obtained crystals that diffracted to 2.6-2.9 Å for full-length GAC from Toxoplasma gondii in native and selenomethionine-labelled forms. These crystals belong to space group P212121, cell dimensions are roughly a=119 Å, b=123Å, c=221Å, α=90, β=90, γ=90 with 1 molecule per asymmetric unit, suggesting a more compact conformation than previously proposed.

Graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) were produced from flake graphite that had been immersed in isopropyl alcohol solution (70%) and converted to powder form in an ultrasonic bath (5 h, room temperature). Scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and Raman spectroscopy identified 120-nm-thick GNP crystallites and 0.5–21 µm plates with different areas and shapes. Extensive exfoliation was observed by transmission electron microscopy with abundant multilayer and some monolayer GNPs. X-ray diffractometry confirmed 43 GNP layers along the c-axis. Raman spectroscopy indicated well-defined GNPs with few defects and no oxide content. Rietveld analysis indicated a GNP crystal lattice with stacks of parallel two-dimensional graphene layers and tightly bound hybridized carbon atoms stacked in a translational …ABAB… sequence in hexagonal rings.

Spike protein is the surface glycoprotein of the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) necessary for the entry of the virus via the transmembrane receptors of the human endothelial cells of the respiratoty system for the virus to be engulfed causing COVID-19 disease after priming by type II transmembrane protease TMPRSS2 and then binding with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Therefore, mutations and amino acid variants analysis are essential in understanding the mechanism of binding of spike protein with its receptor to have an insights on possibilities to design a peptide or nucleotide-based vaccine for COVID-19. Here, we employed Iterative Threading Assembly Refinement (I-TASSER) and Multiple Alignment using Fast Fourier Transform (MAFFT) to predict the three-dimensional monomer structure of spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and to analyze the amino acid variants for protein sequences from GISAID database for samples collected from Jordan in a try to find an explanation for the low confirmed number of COVID-19 in Jordan. Our Protein Homology/analogY Recognition Engine V 2.0 (Phyre2) findings showed four single amino acid variants (SAV) found in 20 samples of SARS-CoV-2. What is equal to 5% of samples showed tyrosine deletion at Y144 located in the SARS-CoV-like_Spike_S1_NTD (N terminal domain), 62% showed aspartate substitution to glycine at D614G located in the SARS-CoV-2_Spike_S1_RBD (spike recognition binding site), 5% showed aspartate substitution to tyrosine at D1139Y and 5% showed glycine substitution to serine at G1167S both located in the Corona_S2 domain. The findings have shown lower mutational sensitivity in all variants that might not affect the function of spike glycoprotein except for D614G, which has the highest mutational sensitivity score (5 out of 9) indicating a higher likelihood to affect the function of the spike protein. This might suggest, in general, a reduced transmitability of SARS-CoV-2 in Jordan.

Through history, particular attention has been paid of the study of the relationship between the energy use and the city structure. Improving energy efficiency in modern agglomerations is the most promising means to mitigate climate change and its impacts. In this current context of globalisation, European Union proposes initiatives and policy targets to rethink the urban development strategies towards the ‘zero energy objectives’. Providing a methodological approach with a simulation district analysis, the present article summarizes how the ‘zero energy’ challenge is analyzed in an existing district (Epinlieu) to articulate the users’ requirements in energy. This study contributes to the scientific discussion of the districts’ urban structure and energy planning by establishing a linkage among the beneficial influence of the KPIs of the districts’ form to increase their energy efficiency and its application in a real case study in Belgium.

Untranslated regions (UTRs) of flaviviruses contain a large number of RNA structural elements involved in mediating the viral life cycle, including cyclisation, replication, and encapsidation. Here we report on a comparative genomics approach to characterize evolutionarily conserved RNAs in the 3'UTR of tick-borne, insect-specific and no-known-vector flaviviruses in silico. Our data support the wide distribution of previously experimentally characterized exoribonuclease resistant RNAs xrRNAs within tick-borne and no-known-vector flaviviruses and provide evidence for the existence of a cascade of duplicated RNA structures within insect-specific flaviviruses. On a broader scale, our findings indicate that viral 3'UTRs represent a flexible scaffold for evolution to come up with novel xrRNAs

The dark proteome as we define it, is the part of the proteome where 3D structure has not been observed either by homology modeling or by experimental characterization in the protein universe. From the 550.116 proteins available in Swiss-Prot (as of July 2016) 43.2% of the Eukarya universe and 49.2% of the Virus universe are part of the dark proteome. In Bacteria and Archaea, the percentage of the dark proteome presence is significantly less, with 12.6% and 13.3% respectively. In this work, we present the map of the dark proteome in Human and in other model organisms. The most significant result is that around 40%- 50% of the proteome of these organisms are still in the dark, where the higher percentages belong to higher eukaryotes (mouse and human organisms). Due to the amount of darkness present in the human organism being more than 50%, deeper studies were made, including the identification of ‘dark’ genes that are responsible for the production of the so-called dark proteins, as well as, the identification of the ‘dark’ organs where dark proteins are over represented, namely heart, cervical mucosa and natural killer cells. This is a step forward in the direction of the human dark proteome.

After brings about a brief review of the theoretical explanations and researches on the reasons for being a victim, this article is organized into two sections. The first presents a comparative analysis of the data for 1999 and 2016 in terms of perceptions, profiles and most significant sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables. The second one shows an explanatory analysis based on a multivariate logistical regression model using as an independent variable lifestyle of the population and socioeconomic variables, and as dependent variables individual’s susceptibility to becoming a victim of certain crimes. The results points towards an explanatory model of victimization in which sociodemographic variables play an increasingly less important role while variables related to lifestyle and subjective perceptions make a significant contribution to greater understanding of the nature of being the victim of a crime.

This paper studies a model of dynamic compensation and capital structure with managerial traits. We show that Optimistic manager perceives equity as more undervalued than debt, while, confident manager perceives debt as more undervalued than equity. Managerial risk aversion mitigates manager’s bias. The risk aversion of the optimistic manager has a convex effect on the optimal coupon. There exists the level of risk aversion eliminating the bias on the leverage. The managerial optimist has an ambiguous effect on the owner’s bankruptcy level. The risk aversion has a convex effect on the owner’s bankruptcy level. The optimistic/confident manager underestimates the credit spread. The risk aversion has convex effect on the credit spread. In contrast to rational manager, the optimistic/confident manger has higher level of effort. The risk aversion has a negative effect on the effort.

The sound and heat insulation are among the most important concerns in modern life and nonwoven composite structures are highly effective in noise reduction and heat insulation. In this study, three layered nonwoven composite structures composed of recycled polyester (r-Pet) based thermo bonded nonwoven outer layer and meltblown nonwovens from PP and PBT as inner layers were formed to provide heat and sound insulation. Fiber fineness and cross section of thermo bonded outer layer, fiber type (PP/PBT), areal weight (100/200g/m2) and process conditions (calendared/non-calendared) of meltblown inner layer have changed systematically and the influence of these parameters on thickness, bulk density, air permeability, sound absorption coefficient and thermal resistance of composite structures were analyzed statistically. Also; the results were compared with composite structures including electrospun nano fiber web inner layer and with structures without inner layer. It was determined that sound absorption coefficients ranging between 0.77-0.98 for moderate sound frequencies and 0.99-1 for higher sound frequencies were acquired with developed nonwoven composite structures. Besides, higher sound absorption coefficients were obtained as 0.71 and 0.74 for low sound frequencies such as 800 and 1000Hz, respectively. As a result of this study it can be concluded that developed nonwoven composite structures that provides better sound absorption coefficients and similar thermal conductivity values compared to previous studies and materials in the market can be used as insulation material in required areas.

Optimizing input parameters not only improves production efficiency and processing quality but also plays a crucial role in the development of green manufacturing engineering practices. The aim of the present study is to conduct a comparative evaluation at cutting performance and machinability process during the turning of AISI 4340 steel under different cooling conditions. The study analyses cutting operations during turning using dry, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), and nano-MQL. As control parameters in the experiments, three different cooling types, cutting speed (100, 150, 200 m/min), and feed rate (0.1, 0.15, 0.20 mm/rev) levels were applied. The experiment results present that the optimal output values are found as Vb=0.15 mm, Ra=0.81µm, 88.1 dB for sound intensity, and I=4.18 A for current. Moreover, variance analysis (ANOVA) was performed to determine the effects of input parameters on response values. Under dry, MQL, and nano-MQL processing conditions, parameters affecting tool wear, surface roughness, current by the motor shaft, and sound level were examined in detail, along with the chip morphology. The responses obtained were optimized according to the Taguchi S/N method. As a result of optimization, it was concluded that the optimum values for cutting conditions (A3B1C1) were nano-MQL cooling and V=100 m/min, f=0.1 mm/rev cutting. Last but not least, it was observed that there was a 13% improvement in tool wear, 7% in current, 9% in surface roughness, and 8% in sound intensity compared to the standard conditions. In conclusion, it was determined that nano-MQL and the lowest level of cutting and feed rate values provided the optimum results.

Generally, mineral fillers are added to thermoplastic polymers to reduce cost and improve performance. However, properly selected mineral fillers can also improve thermal conductivity and deformation behavior, shrinkage, impact strength, dimensional stability, and molding cycle time in thermoset polymers. This study focused on the preparation and microscopic and spectroscopic characterization of various hybrid composites using pumice as primary filler and gypsum, kaolin and hollow glass sphere as secondary fillers, as well as examining some of their mechanical properties and thermal conductivities. For this, first of all, surface modification of the clay was carried out by intercalation method from solution using raw Montmorillonite, cationic surfactant and long chain hydrocarbon material, and then organo-clay melamine formaldehyde nanocomposite was prepared by in situ synthesis using organo clay and melamine formaldehyde pre-polymer. Finally, non-ionic surfactant, foaming agent and glycerin were added to the prepared nano-composite at approximately 90°C, mixed mechanically and then pumice was added. The processes at this stage were repeated while preparing hybrid composites with pumice and other mineral additives. For curing and molding, the composite was first subjected to microwave irradiation for 5 minutes followed by thermal treatment at 140°C for 60 min. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) spectra and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and High resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images were taken for morphological and textural characterization for raw clay (MMT), organo clay (OMMT) and pure polymer with prepared hybrid composites. In addition, some mechanical properties such as bending strength, elasticity modulus and screw holding resistance, as well as thermal conductivity coefficients of the hybrid composites were determined according to the relevant standards and the obtained results were evaluated. Spectroscopic and microscopic analyzes have shown that effective adhesion interactions occur between polymer-clay nanocomposite particles and filler grains, thus resulting in textural arrangements with different properties. Mechanical and thermal conductivity test results showed that melamine formaldehyde-organo-clay nano composite foam and hybrid composite containing hollow glass sphere are highly qualified materials in terms of thermal insulation and mechanical strength.

Extracellular vesicles (EV) such as exosomes, are newly recognized fundamental, natural and physiologic particles of life that seemingly are involved all biologic processes and clinical diseases. Due to their universal involvements, understanding the nature and the potential therapeutic uses of these nano-vesicles requires innovative experimental approaches, in virtually every field. Of the EV group, exosome nano-vesicles and larger companion extracellular micro vesicles (MV) can mediate completely new phenomena dependent on intercellular transfer of proteins and selected RNAs; particularly miRNAs, between donor and targeted cells to elicit epigenetic alterations inducing functional cellular changes. These recipient acceptor cells are nearby (paracrine transfers) or far away after distribution via the circulation (endocrine transfers). The major properties of such vesicles seem to have been conserved over eons, suggesting that they may have ancient evolutionary origins arising perhaps even before cells in the primordial soup from which life evolved. Their potential ancient evolutionary attributes may be responsible for the ability of some modern day exosomes to withstand unusually harsh conditions; perhaps due to unusual membrane lipid compositions. This is exemplified by maternal milk exosome survival of the neonatal acid/enzyme rich stomach. It is postulated that this also applies to their durable presence in phagolysosomes; suggesting unique intracellular release of contents. A major issue discussed is the generally poorly realized superiority of these naturally evolved nano vesicles to therapies compared human engineered artificial nanoparticles; say for treatment of cancers.

To date, Cartesian (x, y, z) coordinate system (CCS) has been the default approach to geometrically specify atomic spatial positions in protein structures since the launch of Protein Data Bank (PDB) in 1971. To this end, this paper proposes a local spherical coordinate system (SCS) approach as an alternative to the default approach and a previously reported global SCS approach. The local SCS approach here requires only two parameters (θ and φ), instead of x, y and z as required by the default CCS approach. Essentially, CCS and SCS are like the two sides of one coin, i.e., geometric coordinate system for three-dimensional position specification. Therefore, this paper furthermore argues that it is time to flip the coin over, and have a look at the other side of the coin, e.g., the local SCS approach, which possesses an intrinsically lower degree of descriptional complexity than that of the default CCS approach, and constitutes a potentially useful alternative perspective for all protein structural research field.

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) micro and nano architectures have been intensively studied in the past years because of many varied applications in environmental, energy conversion, and storage fields, such as heterogeneous catalysis, dye-sensitized solar cells, lithium/sodium ion batteries, lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, and bio-nanotechnology, etc. Especially the surface and interface structures in the TiO₂ structures play important roles in those applications. This mini review article focuses on TiO₂ micro and nano architectures with the prevalent crystal structures (anatase, rutile, brookite, and TiO₂(B)), and summarizes major advances in the surface and interface engineering and applications in environmental and electrochemical applications. We present the principles and growth mechanisms of TiO₂ nanostructures via different strategies, with an emphasis on rational control of the surface and interface structures. We further discuss the applications of TiO₂ micro and nano architectures in photocatalysis, lithium/sodium ion batteries, and Li-S batteries. Throughout the discussion, the relationship between the device performance and the surface structures of TiO₂ micro/nano structures will be highlighted. Then we discuss the phase transitions of TiO₂ nanostructures and possible strategies of improving the phase stability. The review concludes with a perspective on the current challenges and future research directions.

A facile and novel synthesis of thirteen 2-amino-3-cyanopyridine derivatives 5(a-m), by a one-pot multicomponent reaction (MCRs), is described for the first time, starting from aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, methyl ketones, or cyclohexanone and ammonium acetate in the presence of the nanostructured diphosphate Na2CaP2O7 (DIPH) at 80 °C, under solvent-free conditions. These compounds were synthesized in short reaction times with good to excellent yields (84-94%). The diphosphate Na2CaP2O7 is used as an efficient catalyst, environmentally, easy handling, non-toxic, stable, and reusable. Our study was strengthened by the synthesis of five new pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives 6(b, c, g, h, j) by intramolecular cyclization of 2-amino-3-cyanopyridines 5(b, c, g, h, j), with formamide. The synthesized products were characterized by FT-IR, SEM, XRD, TEM, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, TLC, and BET. The operating conditions were optimized using a model reaction in which the catalyst amount, temperature, time, and solvent effect were evaluated. The antibacterial activity was tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains for the synthesized compounds.

In this study, the corrosion performances of ammonium copper quat (ACQ) and boric acid (BA) wood preservatives were investigated, with micronized copper quat (MCQ) and nano boron (NB) used as reference materials. In the study, Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood samples were impregnated according to the full-cell process method with ACQ at 2.4% concentration, BA at 4% and MCQ and NB at 1%. The ACQ- and BA-impregnated samples were then impregnated for a second time using five different water-repellent materials: tall oil, linseed oil, sodium silicate, methyl hydrogen silicone and N'-N- (1, 8-Naphthalyl) hydroxylamine. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 600 and aluminum sulfate were introduced as single impregnations in the form of homogeneous mixtures with the ACQ and BA. The corrosion properties of the impregnated and control samples, including metal weight loss (MWL) and corrosion depth, were examined. As a result, the MWL values of the ACQ-impregnated samples showed an increase compared to the control group. The MWL values of the MCQ-impregnated samples were lower than those of the samples impregnated with ACQ, whilst the MWL values of the BA-impregnated samples were higher than those of the samples impregnated with NB.

: Soil free living nematodes community composition was compared for five agro-management systems in a basaltic soil. The sites differed in their long-term management system and were designated as organic farming (OM), conventional (MI), natural pasture (NP), foliage farming (FF) and open field (OF). The effect of five diverse land use types in vineyard growth in basaltic soils on soil free living nematodes, density, diversity, and functionality in the plant rhizosphere was examined. We found 22 families, 42 genera of which only 14 genera were present in all soil samples, three bacteria feeders, 4 fungi feeders, 3 omnivores-predators and 4 plant parasites, in the soil collected from the five sampling sites. The organic and conventional managements were found to influence soil free living nematode community and its trophic composition. The higher abundance of bacteria feeders included the Cephalobidae and Panagrolaimidae families. The fungi feeders included the Anguinidae and Aphelenchidae families. Ominvores-predators included the Aprocelaimidae and Qudsianematidae, and the plant parasites included the Anguinidae (genus Anguina), Nothotylenchidae and Tylenchidae families. The changes in plant parasite nematodes were one of the main pests in the below-ground rhizosphere biome. Promoting the bacterial community could be a beneficial and promising way for a considerable increase in organic management.

Reactions of Co(OAc)24H2O, N‚N'-bis(3-pyridylmethyl)oxalamide (L) and 4,4’-sulfonyldibenzoic acid (H2SDA) afforded four coordination polymers with the same mixed ligands, {[Co(L)(SDA)(H2O)2]·H2O·CH3OH}n, 1, {[Co(L)0.5(SDA)]·2H2O·0.5L}n, 2, {[Co(L)1.5(SDA)(H2O)]·H2O}n, 3, and {[Co2(L)1.5(SDA)2(H2O)2]·4H2O}n, 4, which have been structurally characterized by using single crystal X-ray crystallography. Complexes 1 – 4 are 2D layers, revealing the topologies of sql, 2,6L1, (4,4)Ia and 6L12, respectively, and demonstrating that the metal to ligand ratio, solvent system and reaction temperature are important in determining the structural diversity. Immersion of these complexes into various solvents show that the structural types govern the chemical stabilities of 1 – 4. Reversible structural transformation can be shown for complexes 1 and 2 upon solvent removal and adsorption, while those of 3 and 4 are irreversible.

The increasing demand for transporting people and goods, rail system is needed for enhancement. An architectural design of train station can significantly impact investment from any government. However, a proper guideline for designing the train station in tropical climate is not publicized. This review examine railway station design through an analysis of student design theses in Thailand, from 1983 to 2022. Furthermore, the building analyses on architectural design theory were done in terms of service area, form, entrance structure, roof structure, style, and design development. The analysis reveals curved and gable roofs are most frequent, followed by 3D curved roofs. HSR stations' main entrances are designed to represent local culture and save walking distance. Curved and gabled porticos provide the most extravagant main entryway, a feeling of grandeur and beauty. A public building's overlapping portico or curving gabled portico lends majesty and refinement to its façade. Architects and designers strive to make buildings more attractive and practical. Besides, university-designed stations prioritize conceptual design and functional space over cost. Finally, railway station design should prioritize transparency, connectivity, movement, and cost- and time-efficiency. Research gaps are identified, such as designing user-friendly for thermal comfort and design-for-all the railway station in tropical climate, are critical for future evaluation.

The aim of the study is to identify structural characteristics of melanocytic nevi. In this context using microscope, could be possible a good describtion related melanocytic nevi, reffering to youth pacients.Good to mention that in a human individual life, play a significant role, genetic, epigenetic, microbiomic, and proteomic factors together with others. Future directions refers to preventive and prophylactic methods.

The development of solid-state forms of drugs is an effective mean of solubility enhancement. In this study, two polymorphs named form C, form D, and two co-crystals of sorafenib (SF) with oxalic acid (SF-OA) and malonic acid (SF-MA), by evaporation and slurry method, have been developed and characterized. The single-crystal X-ray diffraction results showed that the structure of form C was similar to of form I. It had similar cellular parameters, but different arrangement of stacking due to π-π conjugation. The drug molecules in SF-OA underwent torsional folding through four hydrogen bonds of intermolecular and intramolecular. The solubility performance of solid-state forms improved significantly. Compared with form I, form C and form D were 1.59, 1.49 times at pH 1.2 HCl, 1.59, 1.87 fold at pH 6.8 PBS. In particular, the SF-OA and SF-MA increased the apparent solubility of SF at pH 1.2 by 8.3 and 6.4 times, at pH 6.8 by 4.0 and 4.5 times respectively. The dissolution mechanisms were analyzed. New solid-state forms showed strong stability at storage conditions of 40 °C/75% RH and 60 °C/0% RH. Notably, the crystal of SF preferred to transform in mixed solvents, and the formation of co-crystals confirmed the ∆pKa rule.

Polymer hydrogels are 3D networks consisting of hydrophilic crosslinked macromolecular chains, able to swell and retain water. Since their invention in the 1960s, they have become an outstanding pillar in the design, development, and application of engineered polymer systems suitable for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications (such as drug or cell delivery, regeneration of hard and soft tissues, wound healing, and bleeding prevention, among others). Despite several well-established synthetic routes of polymer hydrogels based on batch polymerization techniques, about fifteen years ago academia started to look for alternative methods involving simpler reaction paths, shorter reaction times, and lower energy consumption. In this context, frontal polymerization (FP) undoubtedly has become an alternative and efficient reaction model that allows for converting monomers into polymers via a localized and propagating reaction, by exploiting the formation and propagation of a “hot” polymerization front, able to self-sustain and propagate throughout the monomeric mixture. Therefore, the present work aims to summarize the main research outcomes, achieved during the last years, concerning the design, preparation, and application of FP-derived polymeric hydrogels, demonstrating the feasibility of this technique for the obtainment of functional 3D networks, and providing the reader with some perspectives for the forthcoming years.

Cotton (Gossypium L.) is a major source of natural fibre for the world's textile industry and is also an important oil plant. Cotton fibre is the main source of textiles, the seeds are used for oil and the rest of the bagasse is a high-protein animal feed. In addition, more than 50 industries use cotton's so-called short fibre. Breeding studies in cotton are generally based on crosses between the best genotypes in terms of yield and fibre quality. However, the narrow genetic diversity of cultivars has a negative impact on cotton breeding programmes. For this reason, the identification of genetic resources and the disclosure of genetic diversity are important. Herein, high-resolution capillary gel electrophoresis was used to determine the genetic diversity of G. hirsutum and G. barbadense genotypes. Using 19 EST-SSR markers, a total of 47 genotypes were screened. The PIC values of the markers used ranged from 0.268 to 0.889. The mean PIC value was calculated to be 0.603. Concerning the clustering, PCoA and population structure analyses gave similar results, and the genotypes could be divided into 3 main groups. Genetic admixture with G. hirsutum was found in some genotypes of G. barbadense species. We can conclude that i) the EST-SSR markers used in this study are effective in the determination of genetic diversity, ii) The genetic diversity should be increased through the collection of genetic resources iii) genic EST-SSR markers in this study should be considered in breeding programmes by using them in QTL studies.

A review is given of the experimental values of the magnetic hyperfine structure and the Bohr-Weisskopf effect in muonic atoms. The need for more measurements and systematic calculations is discussed in the light of distinguishing between different models of the Bohr-Weisskopf effect in nuclei.

Apple snails of the genus Pomacea (Mollusca: Caenogastropoda: Ampullariidae) are native to the Neotropics and exhibit high species diversity. They hold cultural and ecological significance, serving as an important protein source in Peru. However, this genus has also received broad interest worldwide due to its invasive capacity, especially in Southeast Asia, where some species such as Pomacea canaliculata (Lamarck, 1822) and P. maculata Perry, 1810 are considered significant pests. Consequently, most genetic studies have focused almost exclusively on these invasive species. In contrast, few efforts have been made to understand the evolutionary relationships of the South American native species, especially at the genomic level. In this study, we assembled and annotated the mitochondrial genome of two Pomacea species native to the Peruvian Amazon: Pomacea reevei Ampuero &amp; Ramírez, 2023 and P. aulanieri (Deville &amp; Huppé, 1850). Through a comprehensive comparison with available mitogenomes on NCBI, we found that the length and organization of these mitogenomes fall within the range of what is currently known in Pomacea. Comparisons between these mitogenomes with those previously published revealed differences in the overlapping of adjacent genes, the size of certain protein-coding genes (PCGs) and the secondary structure of some tRNAs which are consistent with the phylogenetic relationships between these species. These findings provide valuable insights into the systematics and genomics of the genus Pomacea.

Evapotranspiration (ET) is an essential part of energy flow between the surface of the earth and the atmosphere, simultaneously involving the water, carbon, and energy cycles. It is mainly determined by climate change, land use, and land cover changes. Climate change is expected to intensify the hydrological cycle and alter ET. Land use affects ET within regional ecosystems mainly through vegetation changes and agricultural activities such as farmland reclamation, crop cultivation, and agricultural management. However, there is still a need for quantitative characterization of the impacts of climate change and human activities on ET and regional water resource efficiency in arid and semiarid regions. Based on Landsat-8 remote sensing imagery and land use data, the planting structure in the Liangzhou District of the middle reaches of the Shiyang River Basin was identified using a multiband and multitemporal approach in this study. Subsequently, the ET of major cash crops was inverted using the three-temperature model. This research quantitatively describes the responses of wheat and corn to the climate and human activities over a two-year period. Furthermore, the impact of planting structure and climatic factors on ET was elucidated. The results indicate that a combination of multitemporal green and shortwave infrared 1 bands is the optimal spectral combination to extract the planting structure. Compared to 2019, the wheat area decreased by 23.27% in 2020, while the corn area increased by 5.96%. Both crops exhibited significant spatial heterogeneity in ET during the growing season. The typical daily range of ET for wheat was 0.4–7.2 mm/day, and for corn, it was 1.5–4.0 mm/day. Among the climatic factors, temperature showed the highest correlation with ET (R = 0.80, p ≤ 0.05). Our research findings provide valuable insights for the fine identification of planting structures and a better understanding of the response of ET to climatic factors and human activities.

Mangrove ecosystems play an important role in local livelihoods in coastal regions of tropical and subtropical countries. However, in recent years urbanisation has changed the income structure of residents near mangroves. Different landscapes provide different job opportunities; thus, analysis of regional landscape patterns is important for understanding income structures. In this study, surveys on the income structure and landscape patterns of the surrounding areas of three mangrove sites were conducted in the Hau and Hoang Mai River estuaries in Nghe An Province, North-Central Vietnam. The results revealed that both natural and socio-economic landscape components affected income structure. The major occupations in the study area were agriculture, including husbandry, sea fishing, and trading. Land morphology and river type were the major factors influencing the income from agriculture, while coastline morphology primarily affected income from sea fishing. Community-based trading was carried out in the study area; thus, the population inside each administrative unit was a significant factor increasing income, while the retail market size in an area had significant negative effects, potentially due to the increasing number of competitors. Our study aimed to evaluate mangrove ecosystem importance for local livelihoods in relation to landscape patterns, and the results contribute to urban planning based on the conservation and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems.

This paper describes some neural representations that may be helpful for realising intelligence in the human brain. The ideas come from the author's own cognitive model, where a number of algorithms have been developed over time. Through developing and trying to implement the architecture, ideas like separating the data from the function have become architecturally appropriate and there have been several opportunities to make the system more orthogonal. Similarly for the human brain, neural structures may work in-sync with the neural functions, or may be slightly separate from them. Each section discusses one of the neural assemblies with a potential functional result, that cover ideas such as timing or scheduling, inherent intelligence and neural binding. Another aspect of self-representation or expression is interesting and may help the brain to realise higher-level functionality based on these lower-level processes.

Highly transparent thin films with the chemical formula BaSrMgWO6 were deposited by spin coating using a solution of nitrates of Ba, Sr and Mg and ammonium paratungstate in dimethylformamide with a ratio Ba:Sr:Mg;W=1:1:1:1. XRD, SEM, EDX and XPS investigations evidenced that an annealing at 800 ºC for 1h leaves the structure amorphous with a precipitate on the surface and that a supplementary annealing at 850 ºC for 45 min forms a nanocrystalline structure and dissolves a part of precipitates. It was evidenced a textured double perovskite cubic structure (61.9%) decorated with tetragonal and cubic impurity phases (12.7 %) like BaO2, SrO2 and MgO and an under-stoichiometric phase (24.4%) with the chemical formula Ba2-(x+y) SrxMgyWO5. From transmittance measurements the values of optical band gap were estimated for the amorphous (Eg= 5.15) and nanocrystalline (Eg=4.58 eV) phases. The presence of a lattice disorder was indicated by the high values of Urbach and weak absorption tail energies A decrease in their values was observed and attributed to the crystallization process and cation redistribution.

The reaction of [Co2(CO)8] with an equimolar amount of P(OPh)3] in toluene solution yields in situ generated [Co2(CO)7{P(OPh)3}] 1. Subsequent heating of 1 provides in a condensation reaction an alternative synthetic access to the tetranuclear cluster [{Co4(μ2-CO)3(CO)8{P(OPh)3}] 2. Compound 2 has been characterized by IR and 31P NMR spectroscopy, the tetranuclear cluster framework has be ascertained by a single-crystal X-ray diffraction study performed at 100 K.

The threat of fine particulate matter concentration (PM2.5) is increasing globally, Tackling this issue requires an accurate understanding of its trends and drivers. The article investigates the PM2.5 characteristics of 285 prefecture-level cities in China from 2000-2018 based on multiscale geographically weighted regression(MGWR), and the results show that（1）previous studies based on classical MGWR models may be somewhat unstable, while MGWR can reflect the scale of influence of different variables on the dependent variable, and its regression results are more reliable.（2）PM2.5 is very sensitive to carbon emission(CE) factors, and there is a high degree of spatial heterogeneity, and the influence scale of location is the smallest among all variables, close to the municipal scale.（3）In 2000, the constant term all, IS, OFT, CE, and LT positively affect PM2.5, while GDP (jurisdiction) and UR negatively affect PM2.5; in 2010, the constant term all, GDP (jurisdiction), IS, OFT and LT positively affect PM2.5, while UR and CE negatively affect PM2.5; in 2018 the constant term all, IS, OFT and CE factors positively affect PM2.5, and GDP (jurisdiction), UR and LT negatively affect PM2.5.

Sterile alpha motif domain-containing protein 9 (SAMD9) is a regulatory protein centrally involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis. Mapped to 7p21.1, variants in SAMD9 have been reported in &lt;50 pediatric cases worldwide, typically with early lethality. Germline gain-of-function SAMD9 variants are associated with MIRAGE Syndrome (myelodysplasia, infection, restricted growth, adrenal hypoplasia, genital anomalies, and enteropathy). Spalt like transcription factor 1 (SALL1) is a zinc finger transcriptional repressor located at 16q12.1 where only two transcript variants in SALL1 are known. RUNX2 (6p21.1) encodes a nuclear protein with a Runt DNA-binding domain critical for osteoblastic differentiation, skeletal morphogenesis, and serves as a scaffold for nucleic acids and regulatory factors involved in skeletal gene expression. RUNX2 and SALL1 are thus both ‘master regulators’ of tissue organization and embryo development. Here, we describe exome sequencing and copy number variants in two previously unknown mutations—R824Q in SAMD9, and Q253H in SALL1. A new multiexon 3’ terminal duplication in RUNX2 is also reported. This is the first known phenotype characterization for the intersection of all three variants in a healthy 46,XX adult. Focusing on developmental progress, ultrastructural renal anatomy, and selected reproductive aspects, we describe this unique genotype diagnosed incidentally during Covid-19 illness. Individual disruption in SAMD9, RUNX2, or SALL1 would be expected to give a bleak prognosis. However, the convergence discovered here appears to dampen severe pathology, perhaps by cross-gene silencing of effects normally deleterious when such changes occur alone.

With the increased use of laterite nickel ore, the impact of high Al2O3 slag on blast furnace smelting has gradually increased. In this paper, the effects of slag basicity and Al2O3 content on slag viscosity and enthalpy change under constant temperature conditions was investigated. The changes in slag structure were analyzed by activation energy and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The relationship between slag components and slag temperature and viscosity when slag heat is reduced was investigated. The results showed that the viscosity first slightly decreased and then significantly increased with increasing basicity at constant temperature. With the addition of Al2O3 content, the viscosity of the slag increases. The activation energy increases with increasing slag basicity and Al2O3. With increasing basicity, the [SiO4]4- tetrahedral unit trough depth becomes shallow, the [AlO4]5- asymmetric stretching band migrates to lower wave numbers, and the slag structure depolymerizes. With the increase of Al2O3 content, the trough of [SiO4]4- tetrahedra deepens and the center of the symmetric stretching band moves to a higher wave number. The [AlO4]5- asymmetric stretching band becomes obvious, indicating the complexity of the slag structure. When the heat decreases, the slag temperature increases as the basicity increases, and the slag thermal stability is better at the basicity of 0.95-1.05. As the Al2O3 content increases, the thermal stability of the slag becomes worse.

This paper is the first of a series of papers which aims to address Islamist violent radicalization from different angles: the nature of violent radicalization in the context of Spain, a comparison between European, North American and Indian violent radicalization, the need to refine territorial radicalization indexes within the context of preventing violent radicalization and the relation between Islamist violent radicalization and other forms of violent radicalization in Europe. This set of articles builds upon the general theoretical framework set by the author on two previous works (García, 2018; 2019). These works are framed under the known conception of three layers of micro, meso and macro factors contributing to violent radicalization processes (McCauley, Moskalenko, 2017). The paper starts by defining Islamist violent radicalization, then it explores different theoretical explanations and finally proposes an explanatory hypothesis that is tested against, on the one hand, data proceeding from different institutional sources in Spain and, on the other, some initial conversations which will become life stories and a in depth interviews to Spanish security officials and people who whether radicalized and regretted or lived very close to others that did it.

Tree biomass and diversity relationship in mixed forest impacts on forest ecosystem services provisions. Tree biomass yield is driven by several aspects such as species identity, site condition, stand density, tree age as well as tree diversity expressed as species mingling and structural diversity. By comparing diverse degrees of tree mixture in natural forests we can insight on the ecosystem services provision level and dynamic. Two monitoring sites in the Castilian Northern Plateau (Spain) have been analyzed to disentangle the relationships between biodiversity levels and tree biomass yield. Two permanent one ha squared plots were established at Llano de San Marugan and Valdepoza. In each plot all individual trees were measured (diameter and height), georeferenced and its species identity defined. Tree species in the two sites were Pinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra, Pinus pinea, Quercus pyrenaica, Quercus ilex, Quercus faginea and Juniperus thurifera. From these datasets ten diversity indices that fall in three categories (species richness indices, species compositional/mingling indices and vertical structural indices) were used as predictor variables to fit several candidate models. By merging the trees by site (without considering the species identity) selected models include individual tree basal area as explanatory variable combining by addition or interaction with diversity indices. When species are analyzed independently structural diversity impacts on biomass yield in combination (additive or multiplicative) with tree size is negative Pinus nigra and positive for the other species.

Surface temperature influences human health directly and alters the biodiversity and productivity of the environment. While previous research has identified that the composition of urban landscapes influences the physical properties of the environment such as surface temperature, a generalizable and flexible framework is needed that can be used to compare cities across time and space. This study employs the Structure of Urban Landscapes (STURLA) classification combined with remote sensing of New York City’s (NYC) surface temperature. These are then linked using machine learning and statistical modeling to identify how greenspace and the built environment influence urban surface temperature. It was observed that areas with urban units composed of largely the built environment hosted the hottest temperatures while those with vegetation and water were coolest. Likewise, this is reinforced by borough-level spatial differences in both urban structure and heat. Comparison of these relationships over the period between2008 and 2017 identified changes in surface temperature that are likely due to the changes in prevalence in water, lowrise buildings, and pavement across the city. This research reinforces how human alteration of the environment changes ecosystem function and offers units of analysis that can be used for research and urban planning.

A growing body of research aims at solving what is often referred to as the stimulus-percept problem in olfactory perception. Although computational efforts have made it possible to predict perceptual impressions from the physicochemical space of odors, studies with large psychophysical data sets from non-experts remain scarce. Following previous approaches, we developed a physicochemical odor space using 4,094 molecular descriptors of 1,389 odor molecules. For 20 of these odors, we examined associations with perceived pleasantness, intensity, odor quality and detection threshold, obtained from a dataset of 2,000 naïve participants. Our results show significant differences in perceptual ratings, and we were able to replicate previous findings on the association between perceptual ratings and the first dimensions of the physicochemical odor space. However, the present analyses also revealed striking interindividual variations in perceived pleasantness and intensity. Additionally, interactions between pleasantness, intensity, and olfactory and trigeminal qualitative dimensions were found. Our results support previous findings on the relation between structure and perception on the group level in our sample of non-expert raters. Nevertheless, human olfactory perception is no analytic process of molecule detection alone. Therefore, to gain an understanding of stimulus-percept relationship in the individual, future studies should shift towards a more holistic view that takes into account the influences of context, experience and other interpersonal characteristics.