Protein is the proteios building block of life. Evolutionarily, its sequence is not as conserved as its structure, making it more reasonable for protein structure, instead of protein sequence, to be the descriptor of protein function. Yet, in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database, the number of experimentally identified protein sequences is in great excess of that of experimentally determined protein structures inside the almost-half-a-century old Protein Data Bank (PDB). For instance, GPR151 is an proton-sensing G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) originally identified as homologous to galanin receptors. As of March 19, 2020, GPR151’s structure has not been experimentally determined and deposited in PDB yet. Thus, an ab initio modelling approach was employed here to build a three-dimensional structure of GPR151. Overall, the ab initio GPR151 model presented herein constitutes the first structural hypothesis of GPR151 to be experimentally tested in future with previously published, currently ongoing and future GPR151 studies.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an emerging opportunistic pathogen responsible for cystic fibrosis and nosocomial infections. In addition, empirical treatments are become inefficient due to their multiple-antibiotic resistance and extensive colonizing ability. Quorum sensing (QS) plays a vital role in the regulation of virulence factors in P. aeruginosa. Attenuation of virulence by QS inhibition could be an alternative and effective approach to control infections. Therefore, we sought to discover new QS inhibitors (QSIs) against LasR receptor in P. aeruginosa using chemoinformatics. Initially, a structure-based high-throughput virtual screening was performed using the LasR active site that identified 61404 relevant molecules. E-pharmacophore (ADAHH) screening of these molecules rendered 72 QSI candidates. In standard-precision docking, only 7 compounds were found as potential QSIs due to their higher binding affinity to LasR receptor (-7.53 to -10.32 kcal/mol compared to -7.43 kcal/mol of native ligands). The ADMET properties of these compounds were suitable to be QSIs. Later, extra-precision docking and binding energy calculation suggested ZINC19765885 and ZINC72387263 as the most promising QSIs. The dynamic simulation of the docked complexes showed good binding stability and molecular interactions. The current study suggested that these two compounds could be used in P. aeruginosa QS inhibition to combat bacterial infections.

Dacomitinib is an irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and EGFR-activating mutations. Proton pump inhibitors decreased dacomitinib exposure. This anal-ysis summarizes the effect of H2RA on dacomitinib exposure. A within-patient comparison of steady-state trough concentrations (Ctrough,ss) of dacomitinib and its active metabolite and active moiety with and without concomitant use of H2RA was conducted using a linear mixed effects model with pooled data from 11 clinical studies in patients with NSCLC. An oral absorption PBPK model was constructed and verified using clinical PK data after a single dose of dacomitinib in healthy volunteers to estimate the effect of gastric pH altered by an H2RA on dacomitinib PK. The adjusted geometric mean of dacomitinib Ctrough,ss of dacomitinib parent, metabolite and active moiety following co-administration with H2RA was approximately 86%, 104% and 100% relative to that following dacomitinib 45 mg administration without H2RA (P>0.05). The PBPK modeling showed negligible change in dacomitinib Cmax and AUC over 0-24 hours after H2RA administra-tion, when compared with those administered dacomitinib alone. Co-administration of an H2RA with dacomitinib is not expected to have any clinically relevant effect on dacomitinib exposure.

The elimination of superoxide radical anions (O2•−) by 5-amino-2-hydroxybenzoic acid (mesalazine, 5-ASA), 4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-ASA), and related compounds used for ulcerative colitis treatment was investigated using cyclic voltammetry and electron spin resonance (ESR) analyses aided by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Quasi-reversible O2/O2•− redox was found to be modified by the compounds, suggesting that an acid-base reaction in which a hydroperoxyl radical (HO2•) is formed from O2•− occurs. However, the deprotonated 5-ASA anion can eliminate O2•− through proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET), forming a radical product. This electron transfer (ET) was confirmed by ESR analysis. The 4-aminophenol moiety in 5-ASA plays an important role in the PCET involving two proton transfers and one ET based on -conjugation. The electrochemical and DFT results indicated that O2•− elimination by 5-ASA proceeds efficiently viathrough the PCET mechanism after deprotonation of the 1-carboxyl group. Thus, 5-ASA may act as an anti-inflammatory agent in the alkali intestine through PCET-based O2•− elimination.

Molecular overtone transitions provide optical frequency transitions sensitive to variation in the proton-to-electron mass ratio (μ = m_p/m_e). However, robust molecular state preparation presents a challenge critical for achieving high precision. Here, we characterize infrared and optical-frequency broadband laser cooling schemes for TeH⁺, a species with multiple electronic transitions amenable to sustained laser control. Using rate equations to simulate laser cooling population dynamics, we estimate the fractional sensitivity to μ attainable using TeH⁺. We find that laser cooling of TeH⁺ can lead to significant improvements on current μ variation limits.

Recent advancements in the study of the protein complex photosystem II have clarified the sequence of events leading to the formation of oxygen during the S3->S4->S0 tran-sition, wherein the inorganic Mn4Ca(µ-O)6(OHx)4 cluster finishes photo-catalyzing the water splitting reaction (Greife et al, Nature 2023, 617, 623-628; Bhowmick et al, Nature 2023, 617, 629-636) . During this final step a tyrosine radical (TyrZ), stable for a couple of milliseconds, oxidizes a cluster bound oxygen while the hydrogen bonding patterns of nearby waters shift a proton away. A treatment of this redox reaction within the context of accepted transition state theories predicts rate constants that are significantly higher than experimentally recovered values (10^12s^-1 versus 10^3s^-1). In an effort to understand this disparity, temperature dependent experiments have revealed large entropic con-tributions to the rates with only a moderate energy of activation. We suggest that the entropic source may be related to the observed proton rearrangements, and further possible near isoenergetic variations in the nearby extended h-bonding network de-laying the realization of an ‘ideal’ transition state. In the following we explore this re-lation in the context of Eyring’s transition state theory and Marcus’ electron transfer theory, and evaluate their compatibility with the experimental evidence.

A simple mathematical interaction function, with the limit value w = e2π/e, derived as a basis for modelling emergent properties of nanoparticles, nanodrops and liquids, has been further developed. A correlation between physical systems of uniform particles and fundamental properties of natural numbers leads to a model, which acts as a bridge between properties of macroscopic systems and fundamental physical constants. The four fundamental coupling constants, and the masses of fundamental elementary particles, including the Higgs and Z bosons, are derived by using this interaction function. A proposal for the mass of the electron neutrino is given. Finally, the nuclear binding interaction is modeled with the interaction function. Only the experimental values of the Planck constant h and the speed of light c are needed for the model.

Abstract: Scavenging of electrogenerated superoxide radical anion (O2•−) by pyrogallol (PyH3) was investigated on the basis of cyclic voltammetry and in situ electrolytic electron spin resonance spectrum in N,N-dimethylformamide with the aid of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Quasi-reversible dioxygen/O2•− redox coupe was modified by the presence of PyH3, suggesting that O2•− was scavenged by PyH3 through proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) involving two proton transfer and one electron transfer. The DFT calculation suggested that the formation of hydrogen bond (HB) complex and the subsequent concerted-two-proton coupled electron transfer (2PCET) characterized by catechol moiety in PyH3 is plausible mechanism which embodies the superior kinetics of the O2•− scavenging by PyH3 as shown in the electrochemical results. Furthermore, it was clarified that three hydroxyl groups of PyH3 promote the formation of prereactive HB complex, in comparative analyses using related compounds, resulting the promotion of the O2•− scavenging.

We report a detailed investigation of vibrational modes, structure, and dynamics of glutathione (GSH) solutions using ultrasonic relaxation spectroscopy, FT-IR vibrational spectroscopy and electronic absorption measurements. The experimental data were analyzed in view of density functional theory (DFT) and molecular docking calculations. Three distinct Debye-type relaxation processes are resolved in the acoustic spectra, which are assigned to conformational changes between GSH conformers, self-association of GSH, and protonation processes. The standard volume changes for each process were estimated both experimentally and theoretically revealing a close resemblance among them. The higher the effect of the relaxation process in the structure, the greater the induced volume changes. From the temperature dependence of specific acoustic parameters, the thermodynamic characteristics of each process were determined. The experimental FT-IR spectra were compared with the corresponding theoretically predicted vibrational spectra revealing that the GSH dimers and extended conformers dominate the structure of GSH solutions in the high concentration region. The absorption spectra in the ultraviolet region confirmed the gradual aggregation mechanism that takes place in the aqueous GSH solutions. The results of the present study were discussed and analyzed in the framework of the current phenomenological status of the field.

For applications in sensing and cavity-based quantum computing and metrology, open-access Fabry-Perot cavities – with an air or vacuum gap between a pair of high reflectance mirrors – offer important advantages compared to other types of microcavities. For example, they are inherently tunable using MEMS-based actuation strategies, and they enable atomic emitters or target analytes to be located at high field regions of the optical mode. Integration of curved-mirror Fabry-Perot cavities on chips containing electronic, optoelectronic, and optomechanical elements is a topic of emerging importance. Micro-fabrication techniques can be used to create mirrors with small radius-of-curvature, which is a prerequisite for cavities to support stable, small-volume modes. We review recent progress towards chip-based implementation of such cavities, and highlight their potential to address applications in sensing and cavity quantum electrodynamics.

Abstract: Elimination of superoxide radical anion (O2•−) by tocopherols (TOH), and related compounds was investigated on the basis of cyclic voltammetry and in situ electrolytic electron spin resonance spectral measurements in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) with the aid of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Quasi-reversible O2/O2•− redox was modified by the presence of TOHs, suggesting that the electrogenerated O2•− was eliminated by α-, β-, γ-TOH through proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET), but not by δ-TOH. The structure–activity correlation of α-, β-, γ-, and δ-TOH characterized by methyl group on the 6-chromanol ring was experimentally confirmed, where the methyl group promotes the PCET mechanism. Furthermore, comparative analyses using some related chemical analogues suggested that methoxyl group of the 6-chromanol ring is required for a successful electron transfer (ET) to O2•− through the PCET. The electrochemical and DFT results in dehydrated DMF suggested that the PCET mechanism involves preceding proton transfer (PT) forming hydroperoxyl radical followed by a concerted PCET (ET–PT). The O2•− elimination by TOH proceeds efficiently along the net PCET mechanism involving one ET and two PTs.

The calcium-sensing receptor (CAS), as a chloroplast thylakoid membrane protein, involved in the process of [Ca2+] ext-induced [Ca2+]cyt increase (CICI) in the plant. However, the underlying mechanism regulating this process is lacking. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that CAS may perform additional roles in the plant. Here, we provide an update covering the multiple roles of CAS in stomatal movement regulation and calcium signaling in the plant. We also analysis the possible phosphorylation mechanism of CAS by light and discuss the role of CAS in abiotic stress (drought, salt stress) and biotic stresses (plant immune signaling). Finally, we provide a perspective for future experiments which are required to fill gaps in our understanding of the biological function of CAS in the plant.

Cyanobacteria, microorganisms performing oxygenic photosynthesis, must adapt their metabolic processes to environmental challenges such as day and night changes. PipX, a unique regulatory protein from cyanobacteria provides a mechanistic link between signalling protein PII, a widely conserved (in bacteria and plants) transducer of carbon/nitrogen/energy richness, and the transcriptional regulator NtcA, which controls a large regulon involved in nitrogen assimilation. PipX is also involved in translational regulation by interaction with the ribosome-assembly GTPase EngA. However, increases of the PipX/PII ratio are toxic, presumably by abnormally increased binding of PipX to other partner(s). Here we present mutational and structural analyses of reported PipX-PII and PipX-NtcA complexes, leading to identification of single amino acid changes that decrease or abolish PipX toxicity. Four out of 11 mutations decreasing toxicity did not decrease PipX levels, suggesting that the targeted residues (F12, D23, L36, R54) provide toxicity determinants. In addition, one of those four mutations (D23A) argued against the over-activation of NtcA as the cause of PipX toxicity. Since most mutations at residues contacting PII decreased PipX levels, PipX stability would depend on its ability to bind to PII, a conclusion supported by the light-induced decrease in PipX levels observed in Synechococcus elongatus PCC7942.

Aldehydes are natural volatile aroma compounds generated by the Maillard reaction of sugars and amino acids in food and affect the flavor of food. They have been reported to exert taste-modifying effects, such as increases in taste intensity at concentrations below the odor detection threshold. The present study examined the taste-enhancing effects of short-chain aliphatic aldehydes, such as isovaleraldehyde (IVAH) and 2-methylbutyraldehyde, attempted to identify the taste receptors involved. The results obtained revealed that IVAH enhanced the taste intensity of taste solutions even under the condition of olfactory deprivation by a noseclip. Furthermore, IVAH activated the calcium-sensing receptor CaSR in vitro. Receptor assays on aldehyde analogues showed that C3-C6 aliphatic aldehydes and methional, a C4 sulfur aldehyde, activated CaSR. These aldehydes functioned as a positive allosteric modulator for CaSR. The relationship between the activation of CaSR and taste-modifying effects was investigated by a sensory evaluation. Taste-modifying effects were found to be dependent on the activation state of CaSR. Collectively, these results suggest that short-chain aliphatic aldehydes function as taste modulators that modify sensations by activating orally expressed CaSR. We propose that volatile aroma aldehydes may also partially contribute to the taste-modifying effect via the same molecular mechanism as kokumi substances.

In this research the possibility of using pH change to measure proton conductivity of proton exchange membranes (PEM) or else known as polymer electrolyte membranes are tested with using an experimental setup prepared by using pH meters. PEMs are an important part of the fuel cells and proton conductivity of the PEMs are one of the most important properties of the PEMs. Also, proton conductivity is the one of the biggest limiting factors of fuel cells thus it is important to measure the proton conductivity of the PEMs while trying new polymers or new types of membranes. But as current measurement methods do not have a standard and can be separated into mainly two different measurement methods which are Electron Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Ion Exchange Capacity (IEC). EIS gives clearer results, but it needs an impedance analyzer machine, platinum electrodes and setup so this cannot be possible for every researcher due to its economical aspect. For IEC it is basically a titration method to see acid groups in the polymer or polymer matrix which are directly responsible for proton conductivity so this can show an indirect measurement of proton conductivity. But as for this one drawback are firstly this one is an indirect measurement and secondly needs overnight bath in solution can take long times. So, the possibility of using pH can be easier and both from time and economical aspect if it can be proven the give a direct relationship between pH change and proton conductivity.

Chiroptical responses have been an essential tool over the last decades for chemical structural elucidation due to their exceptional sensitivity to geometry and intermolecular interactions. In recent times, there has been an increasing interest for the search of more efficient sensing by the rational design of tailored chiroptical systems. In this Review article, advances on chiroptical systems towards their implementation in sensing applications are summarized. Strategies to generate chiroptical responses are illustrated. Theoretical approaches to assist in the design of these systems are discussed. Development of efficient chiroptical reporters in different states of matter, essential for the implementation in sensing devises, is reviewed. In the last part, remarkable examples of chiroptical sensing applications are highlighted.

The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) stands as the paramount tropical phenomenon of climatic magnitude resulting from ocean-atmosphere interaction. Due to its atmospheric teleconnection mechanism, ENSO wields influence over diverse environmental variables spanning distinct atmospheric scales, thereby potentially impacting the spatiotemporal distribution of atmospheric aerosols. Within this framework, this study aims to appraise the relationship between ENSO and atmospheric aerosols across the Legal Amazon during the period between 2006 and 2011. Over this quinquennium, four ENSO events were identified. Concurrently, an analysis was conducted on the spatiotemporal variability of aerosol optical depth (AOD) and AOD extinction for Black Carbon (EAOD-BC), concomitant with said ENSO events, utilizing data derived from the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET), MERRA-2 model, and ERSSTV5. Through the Windowed Cross Correlation (WCC) approach, statistically significant phase lags of up to 4 to 6 months were observed between ENSO indicators and atmospheric aerosols. Moreover, conspicuous increases of over 100% in atmospheric aerosol concentration were evidenced subsequent to El Niño periods, especially during the intervals encompassing the La Niña phase, particularly within the La Niña CP (Central Pacific)/Modoki category. By analyzing specific humidity anomalies (QA), exceptional scenarios in the region were detectable. This observation suggests a notable singularity when juxtaposed with antecedent investigations and typical average patterns characterizing the impacts on the Amazonian region.

The increasingly common occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become an urgent public health issue. There are currently some infections without any effective treatment, which require new therapeutic strategies. An attractive alternative is the design of compounds capable of disrupting bacterial communication known as quorum sensing (QS). In gram-negative bacteria, such communication is regulated by acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs). QS allows bacteria to proliferate before expressing virulence factors. Our group previously reported that hexyloxy phenyl imidazoline (9) demonstrated 71% inhibitory activity of QS at 100 µM (IC50=90.9 µM) in Chomobacterium violaceum, a gram-negative bacterium. The aim of the present study was to take 9 as a lead compound to design and synthesize three 2-imidazolines (13-15) and three 2-oxazolines (16-18), to be evaluated as quorum sensing inhibitors on C. violaceum CV026. We were looking for compounds with a higher affinity towards the Cvi receptor of this bacterium and the ability to inhibit QS. The binding mode of the test compounds on the Cvi receptor was explored with docking studies and molecular dynamics. It was found that 8-pentyloxyphenyl-2-imidazoline 13 reduced the production of violacein (IC50=56.38 µM) without affecting bacterial growth, suggesting inhibition of quorum sensing. Indeed, compound 13 is apparently one of the best QS inhibitors known to date. Molecular docking revealed the affinity of compound 13 for the orthosteric site of the N-hexanoyl homoserine lactone (C₆-AHL) on the CviR protein. Ten aminoacid residues in the active site of C₆-AHL interacted with 13, and 7 of these are the same as those interacting with AHL. Contrarily, 8-octyloxyphenyl-2-imidazoline 14, 8-decyloxyphenyl-2-imidazoline 15 and 9-decyloxyphenyl-2-oxazoline 18 bound only to an allosteric site and thus did not compete with C₆-AHL for the orthosteric site.

Fragmentation processes of multiply charged ions of C10H8 isomers produced in fast proton collision (velocity between 1.41 and 2.4 a.u.) is discussed in view of their fundamental molecular dynamics. Especially so in the mechanisms to produce a variety of carbon clusters from such ions. This aspect is assessed with the help of a multihit analysis of daughter ions in coincidence with elimination of H+ and CHn+ (n = 0 to 3). The elimination of H+/C+ was found to be very different from CH3+ loss. The loss of CH3+ was found to be accompanied with the formation of heavy ions like C9H5+, C9H5++ and C7H3+ by a cascade of momentum correlated dissociations. The most probable structures of large fragment ions in the CH3+ loss cascade are predicted with the help of computed electronic energy and the multihit ToF correlations of second and third hit. In addition, we report observation of super-dehydrogenation of naphthalene and azulene targets, with evidence of complete dehydrogenation in a single collision.

Background: to analyze the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on characteristics and management of uveal melanoma (UM) in National Referral Center in Poland. Materials and Methods: the retrospective analysis of 1336 patients who were newly diagnosed with UM at Department of Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Oncology, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum Krakow, Poland between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2021. The demographic and clinical data were compiled including localization, size and treatment methods of tumors. Results: In total, 728 patients with UM were included before COVID-19 pandemic in years 2018-2019 and 608 were included during COVID-19 pandemic in years 2020-2021. Fixed-base dynamics indicators for the incidence of uveal melanoma (base year 2018) in the national referral center in Poland were 80.22% and 86.81% in year 2020 and 2021, respectively. UMs were statistically significantly larger and more frequently localized anterior to the equator of the eye globe in year 2021 than in year 2018 (Chi^2 Pearson test p= 0.0001 and p= 0.0077, respectively). The rate of patients treated with enucleation increased from 15.94% in year 2018 to 26.90% in year 2021 (Chi^2 Pearson test p=0.0005). Conclusions: statistically significant differences were found in the management of uveal melanoma in National Referral Center in Poland during COVID-19 pandemic with tumors being larger, more frequently localized anterior to the equator of the eye globe and more often enucleated.

In this brief paper we will propose a new equation for the proton charge radius. We will base our new equation on the Trinhammer-Bohr formula which states that the proton charge radius is directly proportional to the proton Compton wavelength. We will then propose a new equation for the proton Compton wavelength which is inversely proportional to the Rydberg constant and directly proportional to the running value of the fine structure constant on the protonic scale. This will define the proton charge radius only by the effective value of the fine structure constant and the Rydberg constant. This new equation also disproves the old value of the proton charge radius 0.877(50) which was measured by using electron-proton scattering and further solidifies the newer and smaller values 0.8414(19) provided by NIST.

Background/Aims: Conflicting results have been reported regarding the interaction between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and clopidogrel. We investigated whether concomitant PPI use influenced the risk of recurrence in patients with stroke and myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: This study used two databases for different designs, the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database for a self-controlled case series design, and the national sample cohort of the NHIS database converted to the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model version for a cohort study. Results: In the PPI co-prescription group, recurrent hospitalization with stroke occurred in 17.6% of the 8,201 patients with history of stroke, and recurrent MI occurred in 17.1% of the 1,216 patients with history of MI during 1 year. According to the self-controlled case series, the overall relative risk (RR) of recurrent stroke was 2.09 [95% confidence interval (CI); 1.83-2.38], and the RR showed an increasing trend with PPI duration. In the cohort study, there was a higher incidence of recurrent stroke in the PPI co-prescription group [Hazard ratio (HR): 1.34, 95% CI: 1.01-1.76, P=0.04]. The overall RR of recurrent MI was 1.47 (95% CI; 1.02-2.11) in the self-controlled case series; however, there was no statistically significant difference in recurrent MI in the cohort study (HR:1.42, 95% CI:0.79-2.49, P=0.23). The impact of individual PPIs on stroke and MI showed different patterns. Conclusions: PPI co-prescription with clopidogrel was associated with recurrent stroke; however, its association with recurrent MI remains inconclusive. The influence of individual PPIs should be clarified in the future.

Since Darwin’s “Power of movement in plants” the precise mechanism of oscillatory plant growth remains elusive. Hence the search continues for the hypothetical growth oscillator that regulates a huge range of growth phenomena ranging from circumnutation to pollen tube tip growth and stomatal movements. Oscillators are essentially simple devices with few components. A universal growth oscillator with only four major components became apparent recently with the discovery of a missing component, notably arabinogalactan glycoproteins (AGPs) that store dynamic Ca2+ at the cell surface. Demonstrably, auxin-activated proton pumps, AGPs, Ca2+ channels and auxin efflux “PIN” proteins, embedded in the plasma membrane, combine to generate cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations that ultimately regulate oscillatory growth: Hechtian adhesion of the plasma membrane to the cell wall and auxin-activated proton pumps trigger the release of dynamic Ca2+ stored in periplasmic AGP monolayers. These four major components represent a molecular PINball machine a strong visual metaphor that also recognizes auxin efflux “PIN” proteins as an essential component. Proton “pinballs” dissociate Ca2+ ions bound by paired glucuronic acid residues of AGP glycomodules, hence reassesses the role of proton pumps. It shifts the prevalent paradigm away from the recalcitrant “acid growth” theory that proposes direct action on cell wall properties, with an alternative explanation that connects proton pumps to Ca2+ signaling with dynamic Ca2+ storage by AGPs, auxin transport by auxin-efflux PIN proteins and Ca2+ channels. The extensive Ca2+ signalling literature of plants ignores arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs). Such scepticism leads us to reconsider the validity of the universal growth oscillator proposed here with some exceptions that involve marine plants and perhaps the most complex stress-test, stomatal regulation.

In this study, we describe quark confinement in terms of linear interaction potentials and solve the problem of the net spin of a proton. The three quarks in a proton are assumed to revolve around a common center, and their masses are determined assuming they are Dirac particles. On the basis of these assumptions, the magnetic moment of a proton can be derived. Moreover, the rotation of the quarks is considered, in which an electrical current induces a magnetic field. Thus, the scalar product of the magnetic moment and field describes the linear interaction potential between the quarks, and the mass of the proton can be obtained. The proton mass predicted by this physical model is consistent with experimental values, and no numerical or fitting calculations are required. Furthermore, using the newly derived spins and angular momentum of the three quarks, we derived the net spin of a proton. Additionally, we predicted the mass of a pi-meson from the same model, which agrees with the experimental values.

Addition of the bulky redox-active diphosphine 1,8-bis(diphenylphosphino)naphthalene (dppn) to [Fe2(CO)6(-edt)] (1) (edt = 1,2-ethanedithiolate) affords [Fe2(CO)4(2-dppn)(-edt)] (3) as the major product, together with small amounts of a P-C bond cleavage product [Fe2(CO)5{1-PPh2(1-C10H7)}(-edt)] (2). The redox properties of 3 have been examined by cyclic voltammetry and it has been tested as a proton-reduction catalyst. It undergoes a reversible reduction at E1/2 = –2.18 V and exhibits two overlapping reversible oxidations at E1/2 = –0.08 V and E1/2 = 0.04 V. DFT calculations show that while the HOMO is metal-centred (Fe-Fe -bonding), the LUMO is primarily ligand-based but also contains an antibonding Fe-Fe contribution, highlighting the redox-active nature of the diphosphine. It is readily protonated upon addition of strong acids to afford two isomeric hydride complexes and catalyzes the electrochemical reduction of protons at Ep = –2.00 V in the presence of CF3CO2H. The catalytic current indicates that it is one of the most efficient diiron electrocatalysts for the reduction of protons, albeit operating at quite negative potential.

The cross-kingdom stress hormone abscisic acid (ABA) and its mammalian receptors LANCL1 and LANCL2 regulate cardiomyocyte response to hypoxia by activating NO generation. Over-expression of LANCL1/2 increases transcription, phosphorylation and activity of eNOS and im-proves cell vitality after hypoxia/reoxygenation via the AMPK/PGC-1α axis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the ABA/LANCL system also affects mitochondrial oxidative metab-olism and structural proteins. The effect of ABA and of the silencing or overexpression of LANCL1 and LANCL2 were investigated in H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts on mitochondrial function, cell cycle and expression of cytoskeletal, contractile and ion channel proteins. Overexpression or silencing of LANCL1/2 significantly increased, or conversely decreased, mitochondrial number, oxphos complex I, proton gradient, glucose and palmitate-dependent respiration, transcription of uncoupling proteins, expression of proteins involved in cytoskeletal, contractile and electrical functions. These effects, and LANCL1/2-dependent NO generation, are mediated by the tran-scription factor ERRα, upstream of the AMPK/PGC1-α axis and transcriptionally controlled by the LANCL1/2-ABA system. The ABA-LANCL1/2 hormone-receptors system controls fundamental aspects of cardiomyocyte physiology via an ERRα/AMPK/PGC-1α signaling axis and ABA-mediated targeting of this axis could improve cardiac function and resilience to hypoxic and dysmetabolic conditions.

The purpose of this study is to identify the steps involved in fabricating silica/chitosan composite membranes and their suitability in fuel cell application. It also intends to identify the physical characteristics of chitosan composite membranes, including their degree of water absorption, proton conductivity, methanol permeability, and functional groups. In this investigation, composite membranes were fabricated using the solution casting method with chitosan content of 5 g and silica variations dosage of 2% and 4% while stirring at a constant speed for 2h. According to the findings, the analysis of composite membranes produced chitosan membranes that were successfully modified with silica. The optimum membrane was found to be 4% s-SiO2 from the Sol-gel method with composite membrane's optimal condition of 0.234 cm/s proton conductivity, water uptake of 56.21%, and reduced methanol permeability of 0.99 × 10 -7 cm2/s in the first 30 minutes and 3.31 × 10-7 in the last 150 minutes. Maintaining lower water uptake capacity at higher silica content is still a challenge that needs to be addressed. However, the fabricated membranes showed exceptional results in terms of proton conductivity and methanol permeability.

The measurements of the proton electromagnetic form factors in the time-like region using the initial state radiation technique are reviewed. Recent experimental studies have shown that initial state radiation processes at high luminosity electron-positron colliders can be effectively used to probe the electromagnetic structure of hadrons. The BABAR experiment at the B-factory PEP-II in Stanford and the BESIII experiment at the $\tau$-charm factory BEPC-II in Beijing have measured the time-like form factors of the proton using the initial state radiation process $e^{+}e^{-}\to pbar{p}\gamma$. The two kinematical regions where the photon is emitted from the initial state at small and large polar angles have been investigated. In the first case the photon is in the region not covered by the detector acceptance and is not detected. The Born cross section and the proton effective form factor have been measured over a wide and continuous range of the the momentum transfer squared $q^2$ from threshold up to ~42 (GeV/c)$^2$. The ratio of electric and magnetic form factors of the proton has been also determined. In this report, the theoretical aspect and the experimental studies of the initial state radiation process $e^{+}e^{-}\to p\bar{p}\gamma$ are described. The measurements of the Born cross section and the proton form factors obtained in these analyses near the threshold region and in the relatively large $q^2$ region are examined. The experimental results are compared to the predictions from theory and models. Their impact on our understanding of the nucleon structure is discussed.

36 years after the publication of the important article by Busa and Nuccitelli on the variability of intracellular pH (pH_i) and the interdependence of pH_i and intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺]_i), little research has been carried out on pH_i and calcium signaling. Moreover, the results appear to be contradictory. Some authors claim that the increase in [Ca²⁺]_i is due to a reduction in pH_i, others that it is caused by an increase in pH_i. The reasons for these conflicting results have not yet been discussed and clarified in an exhaustive manner. Variations in pH_i have a significant impact on the increase in [Ca²⁺]_i and hence on some of the basic biochemical mechanisms of calcium signaling. This paper focuses on the possible triggering role of protons, highlighting the mechanisms potentially involved and the open issues that could be clarified by research.

Visible and near-infrared reflectance (Vis–NIR) techniques are a plausible method to soil analyses. The main objective of the study was to investigate the capacity to predicting soil properties Al, Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, pH, total carbon (TC), H and N, by using different spectral (350–2500 nm) pre-treatments and machine learning algorithms such as Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Random Forest (RF), Partial Least-squares Regression (PLSR) and Cubist (CB). The 300 soil samples were sampled in the upper part of the Itatiaia National Park (INP), located in Southeastern region of Brazil. The 10 K-fold cross validation was used with the models. The best spectral pre-treatment was the Inverse of Reflectance by a Factor of 104 (IRF4) for TC with CB, giving an averaged R² among the folds of 0.85, RMSE of 1.96; and 0.67 with 0.041 respectively for H. Into the K-folds models of TC, the highest prediction had a R² of 0.95. These results are relevant for the INP management plan, and also to similar environments. The good correlation with Vis–NIR techniques can be used for remote sense monitoring, especially in areas with very restricted access such as INP.

Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most administered first-line treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). However, only around half of EoE patients respond histologically to PPI at double dosage. In addition, 70% of responders maintain EoE in remission after tapering the PPI dose. In order to avoid endoscopy with biopsies − the only accurate method of assessing PPI response − efforts have been made to identify PPI responder patients. Clinical or endoscopic features and biomarkers evaluated so far however, have not proved good enough in predicting PPI response. Although new approaches based on omics technologies have uncovered promising biomarkers, the specialized and complex procedures required are difficult to implement in clinical settings. Alternatively, PPI pharmacogenetics based on identifying variations in CYP2C19 and STAT6 genes have shown promising results in EoE, and could easily be performed in most laboratories. Other genetic variations have also been associated with PPI response and may explain those cases not related to CYP2C19 or STAT6. Here, we give an overview of PPI treatment in EoE and evidence of how genetic variations in CYP2C19 and other genes could affect PPI effectiveness, and also discuss studies evaluating the role of pharmacogenetics in predicting PPI response in patients with EoE.

Pt modified BaZr_0.76Y_0.2Ni_0.04O₃ (BZYN) is fabricated and characterized as a stable electrolyte for proton-conducting solid oxide fuel cell (H-SOFC). The utilization of X-ray diffraction method (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) enables the identification of the presence of platinum (Pt) in both the crystal lattice sites and the grain interface. This occurrence contributes to a reduction in grain boundary resistance. Consequently, this phenomenon improves the conductivity of the electrolyte. The electrochemical performance of the single cell with Pt modified BZY electrolyte is improved by the reduction of ohmic resistance and enhancement of ion migration. This signifies a noteworthy advancement in the creation of more efficient and durable proton-conducting SOFCs.

The evolutionary conserved STING-cGAS pathway represents one of the most important cytosolic DNA sensing systems that is activated in response to viral invasion and/or damaged integrity of the nuclear envelope. The key outcome of this pathway is the production of IFN, which subsequently stimulates hundreds of genes. In oncology, the situation is a complex one since this pathway may serve either anti- or pro-oncogenic roles in a context-dependent fashion. The prevailing understanding is that when the innate immune response is activated by sensing cytosolic DNA, such as from ruptured micronuclei, it results in the production of interferon which attracts cytotoxic cells to destroy tumors. However, in tumor cells that have adjusted to significant chromosomal instability, particularly in relapsed, treatment-resistant cancers, the cGAS–STING pathway often supports cancer progression. In these cells, the pathway initiates a non-canonical nuclear factor κB transcriptional response, fostering the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, we review this intricate pathway in conjunction with cancer progression and development of new treatment modalities.

: This work introduces the instrument design of the medium energy proton detector (MEPD, detection range: 30keV-5MeV) mounted on the Chinese Fengyun-4B (FY-4B) satellite. Compared with the similar detector on the Fengyun-3E (FY-3E) satellite, the instrument has undergone significant changes due to the different orbital radiation environment and solar lighting conditions. Based on the calculation of radiation model AP8, the geometry factor is reduced to 0.002 cm2sr, while the MEPD on FY-3E satellite is 0.005 cm2sr. Another difference is that sensors in some directions is exposed to direct sunlight for 80 minutes every day on this orbit, depending on the attitude angle of the satellite, which is much worse than that on FY-3E satellite. According to the calculation results of permeability of photons through different materials, a 100 nm thickness nickel film is added in front of sensors in order to eliminate light pollution completely. The experiment on the solar simulator shows that the measure is effective and the detector has no error counts when the solar irradiance coefficient is 1.0. In addition, Geant4 software is applied to simulate particle transportation process under complete machine condition so that to check the contamination of electrons on sensors among all directions after magnetic deflection. Data obtained in orbit shows that the instrument works properly, and the data is in good agreement with the AP8 model. The observations of the MEPD on board the FY-4B satellite can provide important support for the safety of the spacecraft and the theoretical research related to space weather.

Purpose: To report the early clinical outcomes of combining intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT) in comparison with IMRT alone in treating the oropharynx cancer (OPC) patients. Materials and Methods: The medical records of 148 OPC patients were retrospectively reviewed, who underwent definitive radiotherapy (RT) with concurrent systemic therapy, from January 2016 till December 2019 at Samsung Medical Center. During the 5.5 weeks’ RT course, the initial 16 (or 18) fractions were delivered by IMRT in all patients, and the subsequent 12 (or 10) fractions were either by IMRT in 81 patients (IMRT only) or by IMPT in 67 (IMRT/IMPT combination), respectively, based on comparison of adaptive re-plan profiles and availability of equipment. Propensity‐score matching (PSM) was done on 76 patients (38 from each group) for comparative analyses. Results: With the median follow‐up of 24.7 months, there was no significant difference in overall survival and progression free survival between groups, both before and after PSM. Before PSM, IMRT/IMPT combination group experienced grade ≥3 acute toxicities less frequently: mucositis in 37.0% and 13.4% (p<0.001); and analgesic quantification algorithm (AQA) in 37.0% and 19.4% (p=0.019), respectively. The same trends were observed after PSM: mucositis in 39.5% and 15.8% (p=0.021); and AQA in 47.4% and 21.1% (p=0.016), respectively. In multivariate logistic regression, grade ≥3 mucositis was significantly less frequent in IMRT/IMPT combination group, both before and after PSM (p=0.027 and 0.024, respectively). AQA score ≥3 was also less frequent in IMRT/IMPT combination group, both before and after PSM (p=0.085 and 0.018, respectively). Conclusions: In treating the OPC patients, with comparable early oncologic outcomes, more favorable acute toxicity profiles were achieved following IMRT/IMPT combination than IMRT alone.

Background: COVID-19 is a disease of the elderly as 95% of deaths related to COVID-19 occur in people over 60 years of age. Despite the urgent need for a preventive treatment there are currently no serious leads, other than the vaccination. Objective: To find a preventive treatment of COVID-19 in elderly patients. Design: Retrospective case-control study. Setting: Robertsau Geriatric Hospital of the University Hospitals of Strasbourg, France. Patients: 179 elderly patients who had been in contact with the SARS-CoV-2, of whom 89 had tested RT-PCR-positive (COVID-pos) for the virus and 90 had tested RT-PCR-negative (COVID-neg). Measurements: Treatments within 15 days prior to RT-PCR (including antihypertensive drugs, antipsychotics, antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), paracetamol, anticoagulant, oral antidiabetics (OADs), corticosteroids, immunosuppressants), comorbidities, symptoms, laboratory values, and clinical outcome were all collected using the electronic patient record. Results: COVID-pos patients more frequently had a history of diabetes (P=.016) and alcoholism (P=.023), a lower leukocyte count (P=.014) and a higher mortality rate– 29.2% versus 14.4% – (P=.014) when compared to COVID-neg patients. Patients on PPIs were 2.3 times less likely (odds ratio [OR] = 0.4381, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.2331, 0.8175], P=.0053) to develop COVID-19 infection, compared to those not on PPIs. No other treatment decreased or increased this risk. COVID-19 patients on antipsychotics (P=.0013) and OADs (P=.0166) were less likely to die. Limitations: retrospective study. Conclusion: PPIs treatment lowered the risk of development of COVID-19 infection, and antipsychotics and OADs decreased the risk of mortality in geriatric patients. If further studies confirm this finding, PPIs could be used preventatively in the elderly in this pandemic context. Moreover, OADS and antipsychotics should be tested in clinical trials.

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the role of gastric acid suppressant use on outcomes of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and oral chemotherapy. We identified all researches evaluating the effect of GAS use on patients receiving oral chemotherapy or TKIs for solid tumors. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated with fixed-effects or random-effects model. The study population included n=16 retrospective studies and 372,418 patients. Series concerned gastrointestinal tract tumors (n=5 studies), renal cell carcinomas (RCC, n=3 studies), non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC, n=5 studies), and soft tissue sarcomas or mixed histologies solid tumors in n=3 studies. The pooled HRs for OS and PFS were 1.31 (95% CI: 1.20–1.43; P<01) and 1.3 (95%CI 1.07-1.57; P<0.01) for GAS and no GAS users, respectively. Only studies of EGFR mutated NSCLC patients receiving TKIs and those with colorectal cancer receiving oral chemotherapy showed a significant correlation between GAS and poor survival. Our study supports the evidence of a possible negative impact of concomitant GAS therapy on survival outcomes of patients receiving oral anti-cancer drugs.

Membranes based on sulfonated synditoactic polystyrene were thoroughly characterized by contrast variation SANS over a wide Q-range in dry and hydrated states. The film samples were prepared by solid-state sulfonation that allowed a uniform sulfonation of only the amorphous phase while preserving the crystallinity of the membrane. The samples were loaded with different guest molecules in either the amorphous (fullerenes) or the crystalline (toluene) regions, in order to vary the neutron contrast or to reproduce the conditions enabling an increased resistance of the membranes to chemical decomposition. The use of uni-axially deformed film samples and contrast variation with different H2O/D2O mixtures allowed for the identification and characterization of different structural levels with sizes between nm and μm, which form and evolve in the membrane morphology in dry and hydrated states and produce scattering features on different detection sectors and at different detection distances after the sample, depending on their size and orientation.

Reversible protonic ceramic cells (rPCCs) combine two different operation regimes, fuel cell and electrolysis cell modes, which allow reversible chemical-to-electrical energy conversion at reduced temperatures with high efficiency and performance. Here we present novel technological and materials science approaches, enabling a rPCC with symmetrical functional electrodes to be prepared using a single sintering step. The response of the cell fabricated on the basis of P–N–BCZD|BCZD|PBN–BCZD (where BCZD = BaCe_0.5Zr_0.3Dy_0.2O_3–δ, PBN = Pr_1.9Ba_0.1NiO_4+δ, P = Pr₂O₃, N = Ni) is studied at different temperatures and water vapor partial pressures (pH₂O) by means of volt-ampere measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and distribution of relaxation times analyses. The obtained results demonstrate that symmetrical electrodes exhibit classical mixed-ionic/electronic conducting behavior with no hydration capability at 750 °C; therefore, increasing the pH₂O values in both reducing and oxidizing atmospheres leads to some deterioration of their electrochemical activity. At the same time, the electrolytic properties of the BCZD membrane are improved, positively affecting the rPCC’s efficiency. The electrolysis cell mode of the rPCC is found to be more appropriate than the fuel cell mode under highly humidified atmospheres, since its improved performance is determined by the ohmic resistance, which decreases with pH₂O increasing.

New approaches to deal with drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria are urgent. We studied the antibacterial effect of chitosans against an E. coli quorum sensing biosensor reporter strain, and selected a non-toxic chitosan to evaluate its QS inhibition activity and its effect on bacterial aggregation. To this end, chitosans of varying DA (12 to 69%) and M_w (29 to 288 KDa) were studied. Only chitosans of low DA (~12%) inhibited the bacterial growth, regardless of the M_w. Chitosan MDP DA30 (DA 42% and M_w 115 kDa) was selected for further QS inhibition and SEM imaging studies. MDP DA30 chitosan exhibited QS inhibition activity in an inverse dose-dependent manner (≤12.5 µg/mL). SEM images revealed that this chitosan, when added at low concentration (≤30.6 µg/mL), induced substantial bacterial aggregation, whereas at high concentration (234.3 µg/mL), it did not. Aggregation explains the QS inhibition activity as the consequence of retardation of the diffusion of AHL.

To assess cognitive impairment and affective symptoms and their association with damage to normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), we compared neuropsychological test scores between patients with CIS and healthy controls, and examined correlations between these and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) outcomes in patients with CIS. Forty patients with CIS and 40 healthy participants were tested with the set of neuropsychological tests, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Single-voxel 1H-MRS was performed on frontal and parietal NAWM of patients with CIS to assess ratios of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) to creatine (Cr), myo-inositol (mI), and choline (Cho), as well as mI/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios. Patients with CIS had lower cognitive performance, higher scores for the BDI and anxiety subscale of HADS than healthy controls. There were significant correlations between the following neuropsychological tests and metabolic ratios in the frontal NAWM: Stroop Color-Word Test and Cho/Cr, Symbol Digit Modalities Test and mI/Cr as well as NAA/mI, Go/no-go reaction time and NAA/Cho as well as NAA/mI, Californian Verbal Learning Test and NAA/Cr. BDI scores were related to frontal NAA/mI and parietal NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios, whereas HADS-depression scores were associated with frontal NAA/Cr and NAA/mI, and parietal NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios. HADS-anxiety correlated with parietal NAA/Cr ratio. This study suggests that neurochemical changes in the NAWM assessed with single-voxel 1H-MRS are associated with cognitive performance and affective symptoms in patients with CIS.

The current pneumonia epidemic could evolve into a pandemic on a global scale if not effectively contained. The COVID-19 virus possesses a 61-amino acid open reading frame resembling SARS-CoV virulence factor - ORF6 peptide. The isoleucine content is 15.9% in ORF6 of SARS-CoV versus 16.4% of that in SARS-CoV-2. Given the proton affinity in the carbonyl oxygen in isoleucine, augmented proton traffic can enhance proton-ion antiport and prompt cell swelling. Calorie restriction has been confirmed in animal studies to extend lifespan, and its underlying mechanism is not fully known. As the content of essential amino acids in the open reading frame of SARS-CoV-2 reaches 57.4%, a starch/vitamin diet served for short period of time does not give rise to essential amino acids and halts virion production, which could be adopted as prophylactic approach of many viral infections. Plant-based diet or fasting/boiled rice water can also minimize the intake of essential amino acids or all amino acids respectively. Furthermore, several proteins of SARS-CoV-2 possess high valine plus glycine content which is implicated in heart disease, justifying the aforementioned approaches.

In the new antibiotic era, the exponential increase of multiresistant bacterial strains become the main global health problem. Many researchers focused their efforts to explore novel or combined strategies for combating bacterial resistance. The good knowledge of molecular mechanisms of resistance and bacterial virulence factors as key targets gives us a good scenario to resolve the problem. One particularly attractive and promising way is to attack the main regulatory “network” of bacterial virulence determinants known as Quorum sensing (QS). The inhibition of QS signals will be a novel way for screening more effective Quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs) and will put a key role in next-generation antimicrobials in the resistance battle. This determined the aim of the present review: comprehensive clarification of the regulatory mechanisms of quorum-sensing signaling pathways in Chromobacterium violaceum and discovery of potential plant quorum sensing inhibitors.

In this study, Silicon Carbide (SiC) nano-particle based serigraphic printing inks were formulated to fabricate highly sensitive and wide temperature range SiC printed thermistors. Initially, commercial silver ink was screen printed to fabricate inter-digitated electrodes (IDE’s) onto flexible Kapton® substrate via screen printing. Thermistor inks with different weight ratios of SiC nano- particles dispersed in polyimide resin matrix were fabricated. The SiC-polyimide temperature sensing inks were screen printed atop the IDE structures to form fully printed thermistors and encapsulated with a adhesive backed polyimide film for humidity inhibition. The high temperature tolerance of the Kapton® allowed the the sensors to be tested over a wide temperature range form 25◦C to 170◦C. The printed SiC thermistors exhibit excellent repeatability and stability over 15 hours of continuous operation. Optimal device performance was achieved with 30 wt.% SiC-polyimide ink. We report highly sensitive devices with a temperature coefficient of Resistance (TCR) of -0.556 %/◦C, a thermal coefficient of 502 K (β-index) and an activation energy of 0.08 eV which are comparable with printed thermistors previous reported. Further, the thermistor demonstrates an accuracy of ±1.35◦C which is well within the range offered by commercially available high sensitivity thermistors. SiC thermistors exhibit a small 6.5% drift due to changes in relative humidity between 10-90 %RH and a 4.2 % drift in baseline resistance after 100 cycles of aggressive bend testing at a 40°angle. The use of commercially available low cost materials, simplicity of design and fabrication techniques coupled with the chemical inertness of the Kapton® substrate and SiC nanoparticles paves the way to use all-printed SiC thermistors towards a wide range of applications where temperature monitoring is vital for optimal system performance.

Objective: We report a case of acute pancytopenia and liver injury after concomitant administration of low-dose methotrexate (MTX), and high-dose esomeprazole and metamizole. Case summary: A 71-year-old patient with chronic systemic idiopathic erosive arthritis was admitted after a pelvic ring fracture. After hospital admission, she received MTX in addition to esomeprazole and metamizole. Subsequent laboratory tests revealed pancytopenia and elevated liver enzymes. The follow-up clinical examinations were unremarkable, with the exception of sub-febrile temperatures. Further investigations did not detect a definitive etiology. Due to the suspicion of methotrexate-induced hematotoxicity and hepatotoxicity, antagonizing therapy with calcium folinate was administered, after which the blood counts and liver parameters normalized. Discussion: Due to the administration of high-dose metamizole immediately before the administration of low-dose MTX, the pre-existing hematotoxic pharmacodynamic effect of MTX was acutely enhanced by that of metamizole, although folic acid was administered preemptively. In addition, the concomitant administration of high-dose esomeprazole and normal dose torasemide resulted in a pharmacokinetic interaction with MTX by decreasing its renal secretion and elimination, further enhancing the concentration-dependent hematotoxic and hepatotoxic side effects of MTX. Conclusions: The relatively high demand for analgesics in patients with chronic rheumatic diseases already being treated with MTX and proton pump inhibitors necessitates that clinicians consider drug-drug interactions as potential causes of adverse drug reactions after the administration of metamizole or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In this category of patients, it is strongly recommended to switch to analgesics of other classes.

We conducted this systematic review with the objective to understand the efficacy and safety of proton pump inhibitors [PPIs] in the pediatric population. We have used PubMed to identify randomized controlled trials [RCTs] published between 1st June 2010 and 30th June 2023, in patients from birth to 18 years old, with gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD], who received treatment with any PPI. The literature yielded 76 articles and 13 met inclusion criteria. For infants, PPIs were equal to placebo in reducing GERD symptoms in 4 articles. In 1, the number of GER episodes and esophageal acid exposure were lower in infants who received PPIs and left lateral position, but there was no significant improvement in symptoms. In another publication, the combination of PPIs and feeding modifications [FM] was not more effective than PPIs alone. For children and adolescents, PPIs were effective in improving symptoms and achieving mucosal and histological healing, which was subsequently maintained. To conclude, PPIs are not effective to reduce symptoms related to GERD in infants, but are effective in older children, along with histological remission. Generally, PPIs are well tolerated, but it is important to not forget the possible adverse events [AE], especially if they are used for a long time.

Novel molecular pinball machines of the plasma membrane control cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels that regulate plant metabolism. [https://youtu.be/zABg7LiBk88] Essential components involve: 1. an auxin-activated proton pump; 2. arabinogalactan glycoproteins (AGPs); 3. Ca²⁺ channels; 4. auxin-efflux “PIN” proteins. Typical pinball machines release pinballs that trigger various sound and visual effects. However, in plants “proton pinballs” eject Ca²⁺ bound by paired glucuronic acid residues of numerous glycomodules in periplasmic AGP-Ca²⁺. Freed Ca²⁺ ions flow down the electrostatic gradient through open Ca²⁺ channels into the cytosol thus activating numerous Ca²⁺-dependent activities.Clearly cytosolic Ca²⁺ levels depend on activity of the proton pump, the state of Ca²⁺ channels and size of the periplasmic AGP-Ca²⁺ capacitor: Proton pump activation is a major regulatory focal point tightly controlled by the supply of auxin: auxin efflux carriers conveniently known as “PIN” proteins [null mutants are pin-shaped!] pump auxin from cell to cell. Mechanosensitive Ca²⁺ channels and their activation by reactive oxygen species (ROS) are yet another factor regulating cytosolic Ca²⁺.Cell expansion also triggers proton pump/pinball activity by mechanotransduction of wall stress via Hechtian adhesion thus forming a Hechtian oscillator that underlies cycles of wall plasticity and oscillatory growth.Finally, Ca²⁺ homeostasis of plants depends on cell surface external storage as source of dynamic Ca²⁺, unlike the internal ER storage source of animals where the added regulatory complexities ranging from vitamin D to parathormone contrast with the elegant simplicity of plant life. This paper summarises a sixty year Odyssey.

Understanding the ionic channel network of proton exchange membranes, which dictate fuel cell performance, is crucial when developing proton exchange membrane fuel cells. However, itis difficult to characterize due to complicated nano structure and differing changes to their structure with different amounts of water uptake. Electrostatic force microscopy (EFM) can map surface charge distribution as nano special resolution by measuring the electrostatic force between a vibrating conductive tip and a charged surface under an applied voltage, . In this study, the ionic channel network of a proton exchange membrane is analyzed using EFM. A mathematical approximation model of the ionic channel network is first derived, to explain changes in force gradient on the surface using EFM. The phase lag of dry and wet Nafion under stepwise changes to bias voltage is then measured. Based on the model, variations in the ionic channel network of Nafion with different amounts of water uptake are analyzed numerically. The mean surface charge density of both membranes, which is connected with the ionic channel network, is calculated using the model. The results show that the difference between the mean surface charge of the dry and wet membranes is consistent with the variation in their proton conductivity.

The ability to monitor Sprained Ankle Rehabilitation Exercises (SPAREs) in home environments can help therapists to ascertain if exercises have been performed as prescribed. Whilst wearable devices have been shown to provide advantages such as high accuracy and precision during monitoring activities, disadvantages such as limited battery life, users' inability to remember to charge and wear the devices are often the challenges for their usage. Also, video cameras, which are notable for high frame rates and granularity, are not privacy-friendly. This paper, therefore, proposes the use and fusion of unobtrusive and privacy-friendly sensing solutions for data collection and processing during SPAREs in home environments. Two Infrared Thermopile Array (ITA-32) thermal sensors and two Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) Radar sensors were used to simultaneously monitor 15 healthy participants during SPAREs which involved twisting their ankle in 4-fundamental movement patterns namely (i) extension, (ii) flexion, (iii) eversion and (iv) inversion. Experimental results indicated the ability to identify thermal blobs of participants performing the 4 fundamental movement patterns of the human ankle. Cluster-based analysis of data gleaned from the ITA-32 sensors and the FMCW Radar sensors indicated average classification accuracy of 96.9% with K-Nearest Neighbours, Neural Network, AdaBoost, Decision Tree, Stochastic Gradient Descent and Support Vector Machine, amongst others.

pH is considered one of the paramount factors in bodily functions, because most of the cellular tasks exclusively rely on precise pH values. The regulation of pH is a necessary feature of the intracellular atmosphere and can be established as a strong indicator to judge a physiological abnormality in most of the cases. In this context, the current techniques for pH sensing provide us with the futuristic insight to further design therapeutic and diagnostic tools. Thus, pH-sensing (electrochemically and optically) is rapidly evolving toward exciting new applications and expanding researchers’ interests in many chemical contexts, especially in biomedical applications. The adaptation of cutting-edge technology is subsequently producing the modest form of these biosensors as wearable devices, which are providing us the opportunity to target the real-time collection of vital parameters, including pH for improved healthcare systems. The motif of this review is to provide an insight of trending tech-based systems employed in real time or in-vivo pH responsive monitoring. Herein, we briefly go through the pH regulation in the human body to help the beginners and scientific community with quick background knowledge, recent advances in the field, and pH detection in cancerous environments. In the end, we summarize our review by providing an outlook; challenges that need to be addressed and prospective integration of various pH in vivo platforms with modern electronics that can open new avenues of cutting-edge techniques for disease diagnostics and prevention.

In this paper, we studied the problem of early detection of natural phenomena associated with the formation of severe floods and the possibility of constant monitoring of their occurrence. The test object for the study was severe floods on the Crimean Peninsula, which occurred due to heavy rainfall in the summer of 2021. Based on the selected satellite and other data related to this period, an analysis carried out and key atmospheric objects identified, according to the proposed algorithm for their identification and grouping. Based on the results of the work, a positive conclusion made on the issue of their use to identify the likelihood of natural disasters that could lead to floods. In addition, the authors proposed to develop a portal for collecting and processing a large amount of satellite data related to flood prevention and monitoring the development of such processes, and stressed the need to create it.

Vision-based tactile sensors (VBTS) have become the de facto method of giving robots the ability to obtain tactile feedback from their environment. Unlike other solutions to tactile sensing, VBTS offers high spatial resolution feedback without compromising on instrumentation costs or incurring additional maintenance expenses. However, conventional cameras used in VBTS have a fixed update rate and output redundant data, leading to computational overhead downstream. In this work, we present a neuromorphic vision-based tactile sensor (N-VBTS) that employs observations from an event-based camera for contact angle prediction. Particularly, we design and develop a novel graph neural network, dubbed TactiGraph, that asynchronously operates on graphs constructed from raw N-VBTS streams exploiting their spatiotemporal correlations to perform predictions. Although conventional VBTS uses an internal illumination source, TactiGraph is reported to perform efficiently in both scenarios, with and without an internal illumination source. Rigorous experimental results revealed that TactiGraph achieved a mean absolute error of 0.62∘ in predicting the contact angle and was faster and more efficient than both conventional VBTS and other N-VBTS, with lower instrumentation costs. Specifically, N-VBTS requires only 5.5% of the compute-time needed by VBTS when both are tested on the same scenario.

Recently, hybrid logic circuits based on magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) have been widely investigated to realize zero standby power. However, such hybrid CMOS/MTJ logic circuits suffer from a severe sensing reliability due to the limited tunnel magnetoresistance ratio (TMR≤150%) of the MTJ and the large process variation in the deep sub-micrometer technology node. In this paper, a novel differential sensing amplifier (DSA) is proposed, in which two PMOS transistors are added to connect the discharging branches and evaluation branches. Owing to the positive feedback realized by these two added PMOS transistors, it can achieve a large sensing margin. By using an industrial CMOS 40 nm design kit and a physics-based MTJ compact model, hybrid CMOS/MTJ simulations have been performed to demonstrate its functionality and evaluate its performance. Simulation results show that it can achieve a smaller sensing error rate of 9% in comparison with the previously proposed DSAs with the TMR ratio of 100% and process variation of 10%, while maintaining almost the same sensing delay of 74.5 ps and sensing energy of 1.92 fJ/bit.

Based on the previous work done by Fujii et al., NdBaInO4 compounds present modest oxide-ion conductivities. Therefore, it has been an attractive system of significant interest. In this paper, the Ca element has been attempted to partially substitute for Nd and the total electrical conductivity has been successfully improved due to the generation of oxygen vacancies. The synthesis, crystal structure, density, surface topography and electrical properties of NdBaInO4 and Ca-doped NdBaInO4 have been studied respectively. NdBaInO4, 10% and 20% molar fraction of Ca doped NdBaInO4 were synthesized through solid state reaction and they were calcined at 1000 °C for 14 hours and sintered at 1440 °C,1430 °C and 1420 °C respectively. The crystal structure of them has been obtained from Le Bail refinement of the XRD pattern, giving the result of the monoclinic structure which belongs to P21/c space group. The size of particles processed with different ball milling time and surface topography have been detected by the scanning electron microscope. The total electrical conductivities of Nd1-xCaxBaInO4-x/2 (x = 0, 0.1 and 0.2) were measured in the dry atmosphere by AC impedance spectroscopy and Nd0.9Ca0.1BaInO3.95 exhibited the highest total electrical conductivity and the lowest activation energy. What is more, the total conductivity of Nd0.9Ca0.1BaInO3.95 in the wet atmosphere at moderate temperature is relatively higher than that in the dry atmosphere while this phenomenon was not found in NdBaInO4. Therefore, the excess conductivity suggests that potential proton conduction may exist in wet atmospheres. In addition, Ca-doped NdBaInO4 were chosen for the oxygen isotope exchange which aims to obtain the diffusion coefficient and surface exchange coefficient, and Nd0.9Ca0.1BaInO3.95 shows the highest diffusion coefficient and D* decreases with the increase of the molar fraction of the Ca element.

As marine traffic is contributing to pollution and mostly have predictable route with repetitive load profiles, to reduce their impact on environment, hybrid system with proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC-s) and battery pack, is promising replacement. For this purpose, the numerical model of repowered existing vessel that have two diesel engines with 300 kWe is developed. The goal of this paper is to develop numerical model which analyzes and determine equivalent hybrid ship propulsion system for known traveling route. The developed numerical model consists of an interconnected system with PEMFC stack and battery pack as power sources. Numerical model is developed and optimized to meet minimal required power demand for successful route demand, which has variable loads and daily sails six-time same voyage- in total 54 nautical miles. The results have shown that equivalent hybrid power system consists of 300 kWe PEMFC stack and battery pack with 424 kWh battery and state of charge varying between 20 and 87%. To power this new hybrid power system, hydrogen tank of 7200 l holding 284.7 kg at pressure of 700 bar is needed, compared to previous system that spend 1524 kg of diesel and generate 4886 kg of CO2.

The blended perfluorinated sulfonic acid ionomers are prepared to have equivalent weight (EW) ~1000, 980, and 830. The catalyst layers (CLs) using blended PFSA ionomers with different side chain lengths and EWs are investigated, compared to the CLs utilizing single ionomers. The IEC results indicate that the blended ionomers have the targeted EWs. As a result, it is found that the blended ionomers exhibit higher ion conductivity than the single ionomers at all temperatures due to higher water uptake of the blended ionomers. Even though they have a similar EW, it implies that the blended ionomers have bulk structure to form competent free volume. The blended ionomers with short side chain (SSC) and low EW can help reduce the activation energy due to the enhanced hydrophobic and hydrophilic segregation. In addition, it is observed that the catalyst layers using the blended ionomer form more porous microstructure to help reduce the resistance of oxygen transport and attributes to lower mass transfer loss. This effect is significantly revealed in the fuel cell operation at not the lower temperature (70 °C) and full humidification (100%) but the elevated temperature (80 °C) and lower relative humidity (50 and 75%). The blended ionomer-based catalyst layers with higher water uptake and porous CL structure result in higher fuel cell performance and better mass transport than the single ionomer-based catalyst layers.

Energy demand has exponentially increased with the increase in the world population and ur-banization. Renewable energy is clean, renewable, and environmentally friendly. Hydrogen production through Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzer is an efficient way to produce renewable energy. The efficiency and energy consumption of the PEM electrolyzer depends on the feed water quality. In this report, we study the effect of pH, TDS, and conductivity on hydrogen production as well as energy consumption during the process. pH values (3, 7, 9), TDS values (300ppm, 600ppm, 900ppm), and conductivity values (30mS/cm, 70mS/cm, 100mS/cm) were studied to understand and optimize the hydrogen production using PEM electrolyzer. The in-vestigations showed that hydrogen production is significantly affected by pH, total dissolved solids, and conductivity, and the best levels of each variable were identified by extensive testing. The findings show both the scientific significance of proton exchange electrolysis in meeting the growing energy demands of society as well as the importance of knowing the influence that di-verse conditions have on the creation of hydrogen. Our research, in general, contributes to the expanding body of scientific knowledge on the topic of the effective production of hydrogen and offers useful insights for the continuation of investigation in this field.

We have developed IrO_x/M-SnO₂ (M = Nb, Ta, and Sb) anode catalysts, IrO_x nanoparticles uniformly dispersed on M-SnO₂ supports with fused-aggregate structures, which make it possible to evolve oxygen efficiently, even with a reduced amount of noble metal (Ir) in proton exchange membrane water electrolysis. Polarization properties of IrO_x/M-SnO₂ catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) were examined at 80 °C in both 0.1 M HClO₄ solution (half cell) and a single cell with a Nafion^® membrane (thickness = 50 μm). While all catalysts exhibited similar OER activities in the half cell, the cell potential (E_cell) of the single cell was found to decrease with the increasing apparent conductivities (σ_{app, catalyst}) of these catalysts: an E_cell of 1.61 V (voltage efficiency of 92%) at 1 A cm^-2 was achieved in a single cell by the use of an IrO_x/Sb-SnO₂ anode (highest σ_{app, catalyst}) with a low Ir-metal loading of 0.11 mg_Ir cm^-2 and Pt supported on graphitized carbon black (Pt/GCB) as the cathode, with 0.35 mg_Pt cm⁻². In addition to the reduction of the ohmic loss in the anode catalyst layer, the increased electronic conductivity contributed to decreasing the OER overpotential due to the effective utilization of the IrO_x nanocatalysts on the M-SnO₂ supports, which is an essential factor in improving the performance with low noble metal loadings.

Clinical evidence has shown that bacterial infections are more difficult to eradicate when form-ing a biofilm aggregate than when are produced by bacteria in planktonic form. Therefore, com-pounds that inhibit biofilm formation could be used against severe infections. It has been re-ported that bromo 2-(5H) furanones inhibited biofilm formation by their anti-quorum sensing properties. To determine if the 2-(5H) furanone moiety is essential to induce inhibition of biofilm formation, we evaluated ten halogen 2-(5H) furanones derivates previously synthesized. Besides evaluating the inhibition of biofilm formation, we assessed pyocyanin production, swarming motility, and transcription of essential QS genes: rsaL, rhlA, pqsA and phz1 genes. Our results showed that although three bromo-furan-2(5H)-one-type derivatives (A1-A3) and two bromo-4-(phenylamino)-furan-2(5H)-one-type compounds (B2 and B6) inhibited the biofilm formation in both P. aeruginosa PA14 (reference) and PA64 (drug-resistant) strains only the furanones A1-A3 were efficient to inhibit QSS.

Large-scale farms are pivotal sites for the development of the agricultural industry, and the quality of the ecological environment is a significant factor affecting the growth of cereal crops. Consequently, assessing the ecological quality of large-scale farms is of great importance. This paper leverages the advantages of remote sensing imagery for long-term, quantitative, and dynamic monitoring of ecological quality over extensive areas. It develops an ecological assessment procedure suitable for agricultural regions based on an Improved Remote Sensing Ecological Index (IRSEI), which considers the coupling of ecosystem component elements. This procedure introduces a Pan-Salinity Index (PSI) tailored to the characteristics of soil salinization in farming areas and incorporates an ecological greenness index based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), an ecological humidity index derived from the K-T transform (WET), an ecological dryness index synthesized from the bare soil index and the built-up index (NDBSI), and an ecological heat index represented by the Land Surface Temperature (LST) calculated from atmospheric parameter models. These five indices are integrated into the ecological assessment system. The experimental results visually demonstrate the development and changes of ecological impact factors in the farm research area over the past decade, as well as the spatiotemporal variations in the quality of the farm's ecological environment. The findings indicate that between 2010 and 2019, the overall trend of IRSEI first declined, then rose, and subsequently experienced a slight decrease. Through differential analysis, regions and areas with declining ecological quality were identified, providing a data reference for the formulation and implementation of future ecological protection and management measures for the farm. The proposed IRSEI method offers a rapid and effective new monitoring approach for agricultural planting areas with a tendency towards soil salinization.

Oxide semiconductors are conventionally being used as sensing materials in gas sensors, limiting the detection of gases at room temperature (RT). In this work, a hybrid of copper oxide (CuO) with functionalized graphene (rGO) is proposed to achieve gas sensing at RT. The combination of high surface area and presence of many functional groups in CuO/rGO hybrid material makes it highly sensitive for gas absorption and desorption. To prepare the hybrid material, a copper oxide suspension synthesized using copper acetate precursor is added to the graphene oxide solution during its reduction using ascorbic acid. Material properties of CuO/rGO hybrid and its drop-casted thin films are investigated using Raman, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and four-point probe measurement systems. We find that the hybrid material is enriched with oxygen functional groups (OFGs) and defective sites along with electrical conductivity (~1.5 kΩ/□). The fabricated QCM (quartz crystal microbalance) sensor with a thin layer of CuO/rGO hybrid, demonstrates a high sensing response which is twice the response of the rGO-based sensor for CO₂ gas at RT. We believe that the CuO/rGO hybrid can be highly suitable for existing and future gas sensors used for domestic and industrial safety.

The proton conductivity, phase composition and mechanical properties of (1-x)CsH2PO4–x fluoropolymer electrolytes (x-mass fraction, x=0-0.3) have been investigated firstly and discussed. UPTFE and PVDF-based polymers (F2M, F42, SKF26) with the high mechanical properties and thermal stability have been chosen as a fluoropolymer additive. According the XRD data, a monoclinic CsH2PO4 (P21/m) phase is retained in all compositions of the polymer electrolytes studied. The conductivity of (1-x)CsH2PO4-x fluoropolymer in the high-temperature phase decreases by approximately one order of magnitude compared with the pure CsH2PO4 for x~0.15-0.20. The size and shape of CsH2PO4 particles and their distribution have been shown to affect significantly the proton conductivity and mechanical properties of the membranes. The thin-film composite systems were produced by various methods of the obtaining salt particles, their mixing and applying to a polymer matrix. The uniform distribution of particles in the polymer systems with the size of ~300 nm was achieved by a pretreatment of the suspension in a bead mill. CsH2PO4-based mechanically strong membranes with the thickness ~50–100 μm were obtained for the soluble fluoropolymers (F2M, F42, SKF26). With an increase in the mass fraction of the polymer the ability of the membranes to resist the plastic deformation and the mechanical strength increases and comparable to the best low temperature membranes. The proton-conducting membranes (1-x)CsH2PO4 – x fluoropolymer with the optimal combination of the conductivity, mechanical and hydrophobic properties are promising for use in solid acid fuel cells.

Accurate and efficient determination of excited-state polarizabilities (α) is an open problem both experimentally and computationally. Following our previous work, [Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 2023, 25, 2131−2141], where one can employ simple ground-state density-based functions from the information-theoretic approach (ITA) to accurately and efficiently predict the macromolecular polarizabilities, we aim to predict the lowest excited-state polarizabilities in this work. The philosophy is to use density-based functions to depict the excited-state polarizabilities. As a proof-of-principle application, employing 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzimidazole and its derivatives as model systems, we have verified that either with the ground-state (S0) or excited-state (S1) densities as input, ITA quantities can be strongly correlated with the excited-state polarizabilities. When the transition densities are considered, both S0 and S1 polarizabilities are in good relationships with some ITA quantities. Furthermore, excitation and emission energies can be predicted based on multivariant linear regression equations of ITA quantities.

At present there is a renewed interest in theories of ”modified” gravity. Here, under a more drastic modification enforced by Galilei group, we obtain a completely new gravitational structure, and which exists in addition to the already available general relativity of today. Correlated with this, we show that in addition, there is a new ”modified” quantum mechanics, in as much as it exists as an independent and new ”pure” non-relativistic quantum me- chanics, and which has no relativistic counterpart. This is in addition to the present quantum mechanics, where the relativistic and non-relativistic structures are counterparts of each other. The above holds, firstly due to the correlation between Galilei group and quantum mechanics. These math- ematical conclusions are consolidated by the fact that there exists a physical Majorana interaction between each neutron- proton pairs in nuclei. Galilei invariance of Majorana exchange in Majorana interaction, shows that the mass here is of pure gravitational nature, and which is immune to the other three forces. This makes an amazing connection between the gravitational force and the quantum mechanics. This pure gravitational mass would man- ifest itself as dark matter of the universe. It is our new modified gravity that generates the dark matter.

The genome of Vibrio cholerae contains three structural genes for the NhaP-type cation-proton antiporter paralogues, Vc-NhaP1, 2 and 3 mediating exchange of K+ and or Na+ for protons across the membrane. Based on phenotype analysis of chromosomal Vc-NhaP1, 2 and 3 triple deletion mutants we suggested that Vc-NhaP paralogues might play a role in the Acid Tolerance Response (ATR) of V. cholerae as it passes through the gastric acid barrier of the stomach. Comparison of the biochemical properties of Vc-NhaP isoforms revealed that Vc-NhaP2 is the most active among all three paralogues. Therefore, Vc-NhaP2 antiporter is a plausible therapeutic target for developing novel inhibitors targeting these ion exchangers. Our structural and mutational analysis of Vc-NhaP2 identified a putative cation binding pocket formed by antiparallel extended regions of two transmembrane segments (TMSs V/XII) along with TMS VI. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations suggested that the flexibility of TMS-V/XII is crucial for the intra-molecular conformational events in Vc-NhaP2. In this study, we developed some putative Vc-NhaP2 inhibitors from Amiloride analogs (AAs). Amiloride is a potent inhibitor of human Na+/H+ exchanger-1 (NHE1). Based on the pharmacokinetic properties and potential binding affinity scores we chose six AAs showing high binding affinity scores to Vc-NhaP2. In silico, the six AAs interacted with the functionally important amino acid residues located in TMSs III, IV, V, VI, VIIII and IX either from the cytoplasmic side (three AAs) or the periplasmic side (three AAs) of Vc-NhaP2. Four AAs were modified to reduce their toxicity profile compared to the original AAs. Molecular docking of the modified AAs revealed promising binding. The four selected drugs interacted with functionally important amino acid residues located on the cytoplasmic side of TMS VI, the extended chain region of TMS V and TMS XII and the loop region between TMSs VIIII and IX. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that binding of the selected drugs destabilized the Vc-NhaP2 and altered the flexibility of functionally important TMS VI.

A novel electrophoretic technique to improve the sensing capabilities of charged particles in solution is presented. The proposed technique may improve the ability of metasurfaces to sense charged particles in solution by forcing them to preferentially sediment within metasurface regions of greatest sensitivity. Such a technique may be useful in various sensing applications, such as in biological, polymer, or environmental sciences, where low concentration particles in solution are of interest. The electrophoretic technique was simulated and experimentally tested using latex nanoparticles in solution. The results suggest that, using this technique, one may theoretically increase the particle density within the metasurface regions of greatest sensitivity by nearly 1900% in comparison to random sedimentation due to evaporation. Such an increase in particle density within the regions of greatest sensitivity may facilitate more precise material property measurements and enhance identification and detection capabilities of metasurfaces to low concentration particles in solution. It was experimentally verified that the electrophoretic technique enabled the preferential gathering of latex nanoparticles within the most sensitive metasurface regions, resulting in 900% - 1700% enhancements in metasurface sensing capabilities.

This paper reviews recent literature on Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) for remote sensing, aiming to provide a comprehensive analysis of the state-of-the-art practices, challenges, and future directions. It also tries to find out if current projects and initiatives involving the exploitation of satellite remote sensing are still framed in the SDI concepts.

In this work, we develop a software suite for studies of atmosphere – underlying SNOW- spaceborne optical receiver light TRANsmission calculations (SNOWTRAN) with applications for the solution of forward and inverse radiative transfer problems in polar regions. Assuming that aerosol load is extremely low, the proposed theory does not require the numerical procedures for the solution of the radiative transfer equation and is based on analytical equations for the spectral nadir reflectance and simple approximations for local optical properties of atmosphere and snow. The model developed is validated using EnMAP and PRISMA spaceborne imaging spectroscopy data close to the Concordia research station in Antarctica. A new fast technique for the determination of the snow grain size and assessment of the snowpack vertical inhomogeneity is then proposed and further demonstrated on EnMAP imagery over the Aviator Glacier and in the vicinity of the Concordia research station in Antarctica. The results revealed a large increase in precipitable water vapor at the Concordia research station in February 2023 linked to warming event, and a 4 times larger grain size at Aviator Glacier compared to Dome C.

Oleylamine capped WS2 nanostructures were successfully formed at 320 °C via a relatively simple colloidal route. SEM and TEM analyses showed that the 3D nanoflowers that were initially formed disintegrated into 2D nanosheets after prolonged incubation. XPS and XRD analyses confirmed oxidation of WS2 into WO3. Sensors based on these oleylamine capped WS2 nanoflowers and nanosheets still showed a change in electrical response towards various concentrations of NH3 vapour at room temperature in a 25% relative humidity background despite the oxidation. The nanoflowers exhibited n-type response while the nanosheets displayed a p-type response towards NH3 exposure. The nanoflower based sensors showed better response to NH3 vapour exposure than the nanosheets. The sensors showed a good selectivity towards NH3 relative to acetone, ethanol, chloroform and toluene. Meanwhile, a strong interference of humidity to the NH3 response was displayed at high relative humidity levels. The results demonstrated that oleylamine limited the extent of oxidation of WS2 nanostructures. The superior sensing performance of the nanoflowers can be attributed to their hierarchical morphology which enhances the surface area and diffusion of the analyte.

Oil spills are adverse events that may be very harmful to ecosystems and food chain. In particular, large sea oil spills are very dramatic occurrence often affecting sea and coastal areas. Therefore the sustainability of oil rig infrastructures and oil transportation via oil tankers are linked to law enforcement based on proper monitoring techniques which are also fundamental to mitigate the impact of such pollution. Within this context, in this study a meaningful showcase is analyzed using remotely sensed measurements collected by the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) operated by the COSMO-SkyMed (CSK) constellation. The showcase presented refers to the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil incident that occurred in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. It is one of the world's largest incidental oil pollution event that affected a sea area larger than 10,000 km². In this study we exploit, for the first time, dual co-polarization SAR data collected by the Italian CSK X-band SAR constellation showing the key benefits of HH-VV SAR measurements in observing such a huge oil pollution event, especially in terms of the very dense revisit time offered by the CSK constellation.

Drought periods have an adverse impact on the condition of oak stands. Research on different types of ecosystems has confirmed a correlation between plant species diversity and the adverse effects of droughts. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes which occurred in an oak stand (Krotoszyn Plateau, Poland) under the impact of the summer drought in 2015. We used a method based on remote sensing indices from satellite images in order to detect changes in the vegetation in 2014 and 2015. A positive difference was interpreted as an improvement, whereas a negative one was treated as a deterioration of the stand condition. The Shannon-Wiener species diversity was estimated using an iterative PCA algorithm based on aerial images. We observed a relationship between the species indices of the individual forest divisions and their response to drought. The highest correlation between the index differences and the Shannon-Wiener indices was found for the GNDVI index (+0.74). In addition, correlations were observed between the mean index difference and the percentage shares in the forest divisions of species such as Pinus sylvestris (+0.67 ± 0.08) and Quercus robur (-0.65 ± 0.10). Our results lead us to infer that forest management based on highly diverse habitats is more suitable to meet the challenges in the context of global climatic changes, characterized by increasingly frequent droughts.

Data on Stark broadening parameters, spectral line widths and shifts, for 15 multiplets of N VI, which spectral lines are broadened by collisions with electrons, protons, alpha particles (He III) and B III, B IV, B V and B VI ions, are presented. They have been calculated, using the semiclassical perturbation theory, for temperatures from 50,000 K to 2,000,000 K, and perturber densities from 1016 cm−3 up to 1024 cm−3. These data are particularly of interest for the analysis and modelling of atmospheres of hot and dense stars, as e.g. white dwarfs, and for investigation of their spectra, but also for analyis ad modelling of laser driven plasma in proton-boron fusion research.

In the article, we are trying to find a general law that describes the physical properties of a complex compound through the same physical properties of compound elements. For metal alloys operated under extreme conditions - neutron and proton irradiations and thermal heating, the mechanical properties of these alloys and their elements have been studied. It turned out that the ultimate tensile strength of tantalum alloys used in the design of space reactors can be expressed in terms of the weighted sum of the ultimate tensile strengths of its elements in the range of neutron doses: (0 - 0.96) displacement per atom (dpa) for Ta–10W alloy and (1.4 - 1.7) dpa for T–111 alloy with a neutron energy of more than 0.1 MeV. For tungsten binary alloys used in the design of fusion reactors, the Vickers hardness can also be expressed in terms of the weighted sum of the Vickers hardnesses of the alloy elements in the range of proton irradiation doses: (0 - 0.05) dpa for W-1%Re alloy, (0.05 - 0.2) dpa for W-3%Re alloy and (0.05 - 1) dpa for W-1%Ta with a proton energy of 1 MeV.

Leaf mechanical wounding triggers a rapid, within minutes, release of a blend of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Wounding-induced VOC blend is mainly composed of oxygenated ubiquitous stress volatiles such as methanol and volatile products of lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway (mainly C5 and C6 alcohols and aldehydes and their derivatives), but also includes multiple minor VOCs that collectively act as infochemicals inducing defences in non-damaged plant leaves, neighbouring plants and attracting herbivore enemies. Till present, interspecific variability of the rate of induction and magnitude of wounding-induced emissions, and the extent to which plant structural traits and physiological activity alter these emissions are poorly known. Particularly scarce is the information of the induced emissions in tropical agricultural plant species despite their economic importance and large area of cultivation at regional to global scales. We chose five tropical crops with varying photosynthetic activity and leaf structural characteristics: Abelmoschus esculentus, Amaranthus cruentus, Amaranthus hybridus, Solanum aethiopicum and Telfairia occidentalis to characterize the kinetics and magnitude of wounding-induced emissions, hypothesizing that the induced emission response is greater and faster in physiologically more active species with greater photosynthetic activity than in less active species. Rapid highly repeatable leaf wounds (12-mm cuts) were generated by a within-leaf-chamber cutting knife. Wounding-induced VOC emissions were measured continuously with a proton-transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer and gas-chromatography mass spectrometry was used to separate isomers. Twenty-three ion VOCs and twelve terpenoid molecule structures were identified, whereas ubiquitous stress volatiles methanol (on average 40% of total emissions), hexenal (24%), and acetaldehyde (11%) were the main compounds across the species. Emissions of low-weight oxygenated compounds (LOC, 70% of total), and LOX products (29%) were positively correlated across species, but minor VOC components, monoterpenoids and benzenoids were negatively correlated with LOC and LOX, indicating a reverse relationship between signal specificity and strength. There was a large interspecific variability in the rate of induction and emission magnitude, but the hypothesis of a stronger emission response in physiologically more active species was only partly supported. In addition, the overall emission levels were somewhat lower with different emission blend compared to the data reported for wild species, as well as different shares for the VOCs in the blend. The study demonstrates that wounding-dependent emissions from tropical agricultural crops can significantly contribute to atmospheric volatiles, and these emissions cannot be predicted based on current evidence of wild plant model systems.

It is shown that the termination of the channeling of the fundamental radiation mode in the waveguide can be observed upon heating of an optical integrated circuit based on proton exchange channel waveguides formed in a lithium niobate single crystal. This process is reversible, but restoration of waveguide performance takes tens of minutes. The effect of the waveguide disappearance is observed upon rapid heating (5 °C/min) from a low temperature (minus 40 °C). This effect can lead to a temporary failure of navigation systems using fiber optic gyroscopes with modulators based on a lithium niobate crystal

A comprehensive model for designing robust all-in-fiber microresonator-based optical sensing setups is illustrated. The investigated all-in-fiber setups allow light to selectively excite high-Q whispering gallery modes (WGMs) into optical microresonators, thanks to a pair of identical long period gratings (LPGs) written in the same optical fiber. Microspheres and microbubbles are used as microresonators and evanescently side-coupled to a thick fiber taper, with a waist diameter of about 18 µm, in-between the two LPGs. The model is validated by comparing the simulated results with the experimental data. A good agreement between the simulated and experimental results is obtained. As an application example, the sensing of the concentration of an aqueous glycerol solution is demonstrated. The model is general and by exploiting the refractive index and/or absorption characteristics at suitable wavelengths, the sensing of other substances or pollutants can be also predicted.

With the rapid development of satellite remote sensing technology, the volume of image datasets in many application areas is growing exponentially and the demand for Land-Cover and Land-Use change remote sensing data is growing rapidly. It is thus becoming hard to efficiently and intelligently retrieve the change information that users need from massive image databases. In this paper, content-based image retrieval is successfully applied to change detection and a content-based remote sensing image change information retrieval model is introduced. First, the construction of a new model framework for change information retrieval in a remote sensing database is described. Then, as the target content cannot be expressed by one kind of feature alone, a multiple-feature integrated retrieval model is proposed. Thirdly, an experimental prototype system that was set up to demonstrate the validity and practicability of the model is described. The proposed model is a new method of acquiring change detection information from remote sensing imagery and so can reduce the need for image pre-processing, deal with problems related toseasonal changes as well as other problems encountered in the field of change detection. Meanwhile, the new model has important implications for improving remote sensing image management and autonomous information retrieval.

The available magnetic field strength for high resolution NMR in persistent superconducting magnets has recently improved from 23.5 to 28 Tesla, increasing the proton resonance frequency from 1 to 1.2 GHz. For magic-angle spinning (MAS) NMR, this is expected to improve resolution, provided the sample preparation results in homogeneous broadening. We compare two-dimensional (2D) proton detected MAS NMR spectra of four membrane proteins at 950 and 1.2 GHz. We find a consistent improvement in resolution that scales superlinearly with the increase in magnetic field for three of the four examples. In 3D and 4D spectra, which are now routinely acquired, this improvement indicates the ability to resolve at least 2 and 2.5 times as many signals, respectively.

In Summer 2017, huge wildfires in the British Columbia region (Canada) led to the injection of a remarkably high concentration of biomass burning aerosol in the atmosphere. These aerosol masses reached the city of Naples, Italy, since the end of August 2017, where they were characterized by means of a multiwavelength lidar and a sun-sky-lunar photometer. Here we report on the optical and microphysical properties of this aerosol in an intriguing condition, occurring on 4th September 2017, which is characterized by an interesting multi-layered vertical distribution of the aerosol. The Lidar profiles highlighted the presence of four aerosol layers, with two located in the lower troposphere and other two at stratospheric altitudes. A rather thorough characterization of the biomass burning aerosol was carried out. The aerosol depolarization ratio showed an increasing dependence on the altitude with averaged values of 2-4% for the tropospheric layers, which are indicative of almost spherical smoke particles, and larger values in the stratospheric layers, suggestive of aspheric particles. Lidar-derived size distributions were retrieved for the first three aerosol layers, highlighting a higher particle concentration in the fine mode fraction for the layers observed at higher altitude. A dominance of fine particles in the atmosphere (Fine Mode Fraction &gt; 0.8) with low absorption properties (absorption AOD &lt; 0.0025 and SSA &gt; 0.97) was also observed over the whole atmospheric column by sun-photometer data. The space-resolved results provided by the lidar data are consistent with the columnar features retrieved by the AERONET sun-photometer, thus evidencing the reliability and capability of lidar characterization of atmospheric aerosol in a very interesting condition of multiple aerosol layers originating from Canadian fires overpassing the observation station.

Many quantum devices signals are proportional to the number of the participating atoms that take part in the detection devices. Among these are optical magnetometers, atomic clocks, and atoms interferometers. One way to enhance the signal to noise ratio is to introduce atoms entanglement that increases the signal in a super-radiant like effect. An initial novel experiment to test the realization of atoms correlation is described here. A Cs optical magnetometer is used as a tool to test the operation of a cell-in-cavity laser and its characteristics. A vapor cell is inserted in-to an elongated external cavity of the pump laser in Littrow configuration. Higher atom polarization and reduced laser linewidth are obtained leading to better magnetometer sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio. The Larmor frequency changes of the Free Induction Decay of optically pumped Cs atomic polarization in ambient earth magnetic field at room temperature is measured. Temporal changes in the magnetic field of less than 10 pT/Hz are measured. The first order dependence of the magnetic field on temperature and temperature gradients is eliminated, important in many practical applications. Single and gradiometric magnetometer con-figurations are presented.

Cloud detection in remote sensing images is a crucial preprocessing step that efficiently identifies and extracts cloud-covered areas within the images, ensuring the precision and reliability of subsequent analyses and applications. Given the diversity of clouds and the intricacies of the surface, distinguishing the boundaries between thin clouds and the underlying surface is a major challenge in cloud detection. To address these challenges, an advanced cloud detection method, CloudformerV3, is presented in this paper. The proposed method employs a multi-scale adapter to incorporate dark and bright channel prior information into the model's backbone, enhancing the model's ability to capture prior information and multi-scale details from remote sensing images. Additionally, multi-level large window attention is utilized, enabling high-resolution feature maps and low-resolution feature maps to mutually focus and subsequently merge during the resolution recovery phase. This facilitates the establishment of connections between different levels of feature maps and offers comprehensive contextual information for the model's decoder. Experimental results on the GF1_WHU dataset demonstrate that the method introduced in this paper exhibits superior detection accuracy when compared to state-of-the-art cloud detection models. Furthermore, enhanced detection performance is achieved along cloud edges and with respect to thin clouds, showcasing the efficacy of the proposed method.

Estimating precipitation is of critical importance to climate systems and decision-making processes. This paper presents Espresso, a deep learning model designed for estimating precipitation from satellite observations on a global scale. Conventional methods, like ground-based radars, are limited in terms of spatial coverage. Satellite observations, on the other hand, allow global coverage. Combined with deep learning methods these observations offer the opportunity to address the challenge of estimating precicpation on a global scale. This research paper presents the development of a deep learning model using geostationary satellite data as input and generating instantaneous rainfall rates, calibrated using data from the Global Precipitation Measurement Core Observatory (GPMCO). The performance impact of various input data configurations on Espresso was investigated. These configurations include a sequence of four images from geostationary satellites and the optimal selection of channels. Additional descriptive features were explored to enhance the model’s robustness for global aplications. When evaluated against the GPMCO test set, Espresso demonstrated highly accurate precipitation estimation, especially within equatorial regions. A comparison against six other operational products using multiple metrics indicated its competitive performance. The model’s superior storm localization and intensity estimation were further confirmed through visual comparisons in case studies. Espresso has been incorporated as an operational product at Météo-France, delivering high-quality, real-time global precipitation estimates every 30 minutes.

The increased accessibility of drone technology and the wide use of Structure from Motion 3D scene reconstruction have transformed the approach for mapping inaccessible slopes undergoing active rockfalls. The Poggio Baldi landslide offers the possibility for many of these techniques to be deployed and integrated with the aim of defining a suitable workflow for the analysis of hazards in mountainous regions. The generation of multitemporal digital slope twins (2016 – 2019), informed a rockfall trajectory analysis that was carried out with a physical-based GIS model. We tested the rockfall scenario reconstructed and calibrated on the analysis of the rock mass characteristics and the geometrical and physical constraints given by the multi-temporal analysis of the SfM point clouds. This time-independent rockfall hazard analysis is a critical component to any subsequent holistic risk analysis on this case study, and any potential similar mountainous setting.

Throughout history, the unique Dacian landscape has aroused the imagination of many. For decades, researchers have been fascinated by the magnificent structures the Dacians built and how they altered the mountains to their advantage. Dacian sites, despite their grandeur, remain mostly unknown due to their position deep within Romania's vast forests, generally in remote regions and hidden from the naked eye. Ground exploration in densely forested mountain regions is extremely difficult, and even if such campaigns existed, they would be insufficient to provide a comprehensive picture of the Dacian world. The lack of high-resolution remote-sensing data for wide areas made big-scale assessments of the landscape impractical. This is about to change, as new large datasets of LiDAR-derived digital elevation models, covering the entire heart of Dacian world, are now freely available. This paper reports on one of the most recent freely available LiDAR-based high-resolution digital elevation models in Romania, its impact on Romanian mountain archaeology, and how this can shape future research directions in understanding the Dacian landscape.

The distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) has great potential for monitoring natural-resource reservoirs and borehole conditions. However, the large volume of data and complicated wavefield add challenges to processing and interpretation. In this study, we demonstrate that seismic interferometry based on deconvolution is a convenient tool for analyzing this complicated wavefield. We extract coherent wave from the observation of a borehole DAS system at the Brady geothermal field in Nevada. Then, we analyze the coherent reverberating waves, which are used for monitoring temporal changes of the system. These reverberations are tirelessly observed in the vertical borehole DAS data due to cable or casing ringing. The deconvolution method allows us to examine the wavefield at different boundary conditions. We interpret the deconvolved wavefields using a simple 1D string model. The velocity of this wave varies with depth, observation time, temperature, and pressure. We find the velocity is sensitive to disturbances in the borehole related to increasing operation intensity. The velocity decreases with rising temperature, which potentially suggests that the DAS cable or the casing are subjected to high temperature. This reverberation can be decomposed into distinct vibration modes in the spectrum. We find that the wave is dispersive, and the the fundamental mode propagate with a large velocity. The method can be useful for monitoring borehole conditions or reservoir property changes. For the later, we need better coupling than through only friction in the vertical borehole to obtain coherent energy from the formation.

Autonomous image recognition has numerous potential applications in the field of planetary science and geology. For instance, having the ability to classify images of rocks would allow geologists to have immediate feedback without having to bring back samples to the laboratory. Also, planetary rovers could classify rocks in remote places and even in other planets without needing human intervention. Shu et al. classified 9 different types of rock images using a Support Vector Machine (SVM) with the image features extracted autonomously. Through this method, the authors achieved a test accuracy of 96.71%. In this research, Convolutional Neural Networks(CNN) have been used to classify the same set of rock images. Results show that a 3-layer network obtains an average accuracy of 99.60% across 10 trials on the test set. A version of Self-taught Learning was also implemented to prove the generalizability of the features extracted by the CNN. Finally, one model has been chosen to be deployed on a mobile device to demonstrate practicality and portability. The deployed model achieves a perfect classification accuracy on the test set, while taking only 0.068 seconds to make a prediction, equivalent to about 14 frames per second.

Irrigation water management components evaluation is mandatory for sustainable irrigated agriculture production in the era of water scarcity. In this research spatio-temporal distribution of irrigation water components were evaluated at canal command area in Indus Basin Irrigation System (IBIS) using remote sensing based geo-informatics approach. Satellite derived MODIS product-based Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL) was used for the estimation of the Actual Evapotranspiration (ETa). Satellite derived SEBAL based ETa was calibrated and validated using the ground data-based advection aridity method (AA). Statistical analysis of the SEBAL based ETa and AA shows the mean 87.1 mm and 47.9 mm and, 100 mm and 77 mm, Standard deviation of 27.7 mm and 15.9 mm and, 34.9 mm and 16.1 mm, R of 0.93 and 0.94, NSE of 0.72 and 0.85, PBIASE -12.9 and -4.4, RMSE 34.9 and 5.76 for the Kharif and Rabi season, respectively. Rainfall data was acquired from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). TRMM based rainfall was calibrated with the point observatory data of the Pakistan Metrological Department Stations. Canal water data was collected from the Punjab Irrigation department for the assessment of canal water availability. Water The water balance approach was applied in the unsaturated zone for the quantification of the gross and net Groundwater irrigation. Mmonthly variation of ETa with the minimum average value of 63.3 mm in January and the maximum average value of 110.6 mm in August was found. While, the average annual of four cropping years (2011-12 to 2014-15) ETa was found 899 mm. Average of the sum of Net Canal Water Use (NCWU) and Rainfall during the study period of four years was only 548 mm (36% of ETa) and this resulted the 739.6 mm of groundwater extraction. While the annual based variation in groundwater extraction of 632 mm and 780 mm was found. Seasonal analysis revealed 39% and 61% of groundwater extraction proportion during Rabi and Kharif season, respectively. The variation in four cropping year’s monthly groundwater extraction was found 28.7 mm to 120.3 mm. This variation was high in the 2011-12 to 2012-13 cropping year (0 mm to 148.7 mm), dependent upon the occurrence of rainfall and crop phenology. Net groundwater irrigation, estimated after incorporating the efficiencies was 503 mm year-1 on average for the four cropping years.

We present a compact optical head design for wide-range and low noise displacement sensing using deep frequency modulation interferometry. The on-axis beam topology is realised in a quasi-monolithic component and relies on cube beamsplitters and beam transmission through perpendicular surfaces to keep angular alignment constant when operating in air or vacuum, which leads to the generation of ghost beams that can limit the phase readout linearity. We investigate the coupling of these beams into the non-linear phase readout scheme of DFMI and demonstrate adjustments of the phase estimation algorithm to reduce this effect. This is done through a combination of balanced detection and the inherent orthogonality of beat signals with different relative time-delays in deep frequency modulation interferometry that is a unique feature not available for heterodyne, quadrature or homodyne interferometry.

The development of unmanned satellite space technology is increasingly willing, the emergence of medium resolution satellites with sensitivity and spectral variants such as Landsat is very effective in observing environmental changes, while the purpose of this study is to monitor the development of built-in land using image transformation techniques, estimating built-in land changes. The research method uses the NDVI image transformation technique, NDBI and Built Up Index, with Landsat satellite image data obtained from USGS. Accuracy sampling is done by purposive sampling with confusion matrix accuracy test technique. The research results were found. developed land for the period 2004 - 2010 with a percentage of 19.25%, for stages 2010 - 2018 with a percentage of 30.25%. The land development was built based on the area of ​​the highest sub-district in the Kubung area in the early period with a percentage of 7.20% then in the second period with a percentage of 32.23%. The quality of the accuracy of the results of image analysis using confusion matrix technique with an image accuracy level in a field sample of 185 with an image accuracy of 86.04%.

Paddy field is an old agriculture practice that very common especially in Asia. The earliest paddy field found dated back to 4330 BC. Most paddy fields in the world are having rectangular shapes. Whereas, in Flores island, indigenous people have developed a spider web or circular paddy field instead of regular rectangular shape and this driven by culture and local wisdom. In here, the objectives of this study are to assess the characteristic, ecology and fertility of circular paddy field compared to common rectangular shape. Fertility values were assessed using Landsat 8 remote sensing with RGB combination of NIR, SWIR 1 and blue. The study site was paddy field within Flores island. The result shows that spider web paddy field appeared in many sizes, number, altitude, ecosystem and terrain. Remote sensing result confirms that the fertility of circular paddy field is similar to the rectangular shape. Likewise, circular field has higher NDVI than rectangular field. Considering semiarid environment, limited labor and resources in Flores island, circular paddy field shape can allow the use of pivot irrigation that more efficient.

Relationship between caveman prehistoric life in terms of heat induced food processing and its geological ecosystems have received many attentions. Previous studies have investigated the sources of heat included using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and biomarker approaches. Here this study proposes the use of remote sensing to identify the relationship of 9500 year old (9.5 ka) prehistoric mongoloid occupancy with hydrothermal manifestations at Pawon cave of West Java. The hydrothermal manifestations around Pawon cave were identified using Landsat 8 band combinations, land surface temperature, and sedimentary lithology. The results showed the hydrothermal manifestations surrounding Pawon cave were within a distance of 0.5-2 km. The results also showed bones representing 12 animal taxon groups with high abundance of rodents. To conclude this study sheds the light of proximity and preferences of mongoloid prehistoric occupancy towards hydrothermal landscape due to its advantage as heat sources for food processing purposes.

This study has been monitored for five years by Sentinel-2 satellite images, at different seasons of the year, of the fluctuations in the water level of the Gallocanta Lake (between the provinces of Teruel and Zaragoza, Aragón, Spain) considered a hypersaline and endorheic wetland, which has characteristics that make it unique in the geographical area in which it is located, as well as for the operation of the system. Rainfall in the area has a wide variation giving the maximums in the months of May and June and the minimums in January and February. There are considerable fluctuations in the water level from the almost total drying of the lagoon to the filling with a depth of approximately 3 meters.

Abstract: As the massive deployment of the heterogeneous IoT devices in the coexisting environment such as smart homes，Traditional channel-based spectrum sharing algorithms such as CSMA has great limitations to further optimize spectrum utilization. Therefore, exploring more efficient spectrum sensing algorithm becomes hot topic these years. This paper proposes Subcarrier-Sniffer, which utilizes Channel State Information (CSI) to sense the subcarrier-level detailed status of the spectrum. In order to evaluate the performance of Subcarrier-Sniffer, we implemented Subcarrier-Sniffer by USRP B200min, and the experimental results show that when the distance between Subcarrier-Sniffer and the monitored devices is not great than 7 m, the accuracy of subcarrier-level spectrum sensing could achieve 100% in our settings.

This paper proposes the use of compressive sensing to tackle the Massive MIMO channel estimation problem. As our results show compressive sensing-based estimators perform as well as the optimum MMSE estimator.

Sea ice surface roughness affects ice-atmosphere interactions, serves as an indicator of ice age, shows patterns of ice convergence and divergence, affects the spatial extent of summer melt ponds, and ice albedo. We have developed a method for mapping sea ice surface roughness using angular reflectance data from the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) and lidar-derived roughness measurements from the Airborne Topographic Mapper (ATM). Using an empirical data modeling approach, we derived estimates of Arctic sea ice roughness ranging from centimeters to decimeters meters within the MISR 275-m pixel size. Using independent ATM data for validation, we find that histograms of lidar and multi-angular roughness values are nearly identical for areas with roughness <20 cm but that for rougher regions, the MISR-derived roughness has a narrower range of values than the ATM data. The algorithm is able to accurately identify areas that transition between smooth and rough ice. Because of its coarser spatial scale, MISR-derived roughness data have a variance of about half that ATM roughness data.

Pruning is one of the most important tree fruit production activities, which is highly dependent on human labor. Skilled labor is in short supply, and the increasing cost of labor is becoming a big issue for the tree fruit industry. Growers are motivated to seek mechanical or robotic solutions for reducing the amount of hand labor required for pruning. This paper reviews the research and development of sensing and automated systems for branch pruning for tree fruit production. Horticultural advancements, pruning strategies, 3D structure reconstruction of tree branches, as well as practice mechanisms or robotics are some of the developments that need to be addressed for an effective tree branch pruning system. Our study summarizes the potential opportunities for automatic pruning with machine-friendly modern tree architectures, previous studies on sensor development, and efforts to develop and deploy mechanical/robotic systems for automated branch pruning. We also describe two examples of qualified pruning strategies that could potentially simplify the automated pruning decision and pruning end-effector design. Finally, the limitations of current pruning technologies and other challenges for automated branch pruning are described, and possible solutions are discussed.

In recent years, compound glass microsphere resonator devices have attracted increasing interest and have been widely used in sensing, microsphere lasers, and nonlinear optics. Compared with traditional silica resonators, compound glass microsphere resonators have many significant and attractive properties, such as high-Q factor, an ability to achieve high rare earth ion, wide infrared transmittance and low phonon energy. This review provides a summary and a critical assessment of the fabrication and the optical characterization of compound glasses and the related fabrication and applications of compound glass microsphere resonators.

Arc sensors have been used in seam tracking and widely studied since the 80s; commercial arc sensing products for T and V shaped grooves have been developed. However, it is difficult to use these arc sensors in narrow gap welding because arc stability and sensing accuracy are not satisfactory. Pulse gas melting arc welding (P-GMAW) has been successfully applied in narrow gap welding and all position welding processes, so it is worthwhile to research P-GMAW arc sensing technology. In this paper, we derived a linear mathematical P-GMAW model for arc sensing, and the assumptions for the model are verified through experiments and finite element methods. Finally, the linear characteristics of the mathematical model were investigated. In torch height changing experiments, uphill experiments, and groove angle changing experiments the P-GMAW arc signals all satisfied the linear rules. In addition, the faster the welding speed, the higher the arc signal sensitivities; the smaller the groove angle, the greater the arc sensitivities. The arc signal variation rate needs to be modified according to the welding power, groove angles, and swing or rotate speed.

A lead zirconate titanate [PZT;Pb(Zr_0.52Ti_0.48)O₃] layer embedded infrared (IR) detector decorated with wavelength-selective plasmonic crystals has been investigated for high-performance non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) spectroscopy. A plasmonic IR detector with an enhanced IR absorption band has been designed based on numerical simulations, fabricated by conventional microfabrication techniques, and characterized with a broadly tunable quantum cascade laser. The enhanced responsivity of the plasmonic IR detector at specific wavelength band has improved the performance of NDIR spectroscopy and pushed the limit of detection (LOD) by an order of magnitude. In this paper, a 13 fold enhancement in the LOD of a methane gas sensing using NDIR spectroscopy is demonstrated with the plasmonic IR detector.

We present multi-sensor measurements from satellites, unmanned aerial vehicle, marine radar, thermal profilers and repeated conductivity-temperature-depth casts made in the Kara Gates strait connecting the Barents and the Kara Seas during spring tide in August 2021. Analysis of the field data during an 18-hour period from four stations evidence that a complex sill in the Kara Gates is the site of regular production of intense large-amplitude nonlinear internal waves. Satellite data show a presence of a relatively warm northeastward surface current from the Barents Sea toward the Kara Sea attaining 0.8-0.9 m/s. Triangle-shaped measurements of three thermal profilers revealed pronounced vertical thermocline oscillations up to 40 m associated with propagation of short-period nonlinear internal waves of depression generated by stratified flow passing a system of shallow sills in the strait. The most intense waves were recorded during the ebb tide slackening and reversal when the background flow was predominantly supercritical. Observed internal waves had wavelength of ~100 m and travelled northeastward with phase speeds of 0.8-0.9 m/s. The total internal wave energy per unit crest length for the largest waves was estimated to be equal to 1.0-1.8 MJ/m.