Search

This study reports the synthesis and characterization of a Fe2O3-PANI/CdS nanocomposite for the photocatalytic degradation of Malachite Green dye under visible light irradiation. The successful formation of the synthesized nanocomposite was confirmed through various characterization techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Under optimized conditions, the Fe2O3-PANI/CdS nanocomposite demonstrated excellent photocatalytic performance, achieving a degradation efficiency of 95.7% for Malachite Green dye within 30 min. Kinetic studies revealed that the degradation process followed a pseudo-first-order reaction model. Furthermore, the nanocomposite exhibited good reusability, maintaining high degradation efficiency after five consecutive reuse cycles. These results demonstrate the potential of the Fe2O3-PANI/CdS nanocomposite as a promising photocatalyst for wastewater treatment applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A magnetic mesoporous silica, Fe3O4@SiO2@KCC-1 (MMS), was prepared using a hydrothermal method and subsequently modified by post-grafting to synthesize Fe3O4@SiO2@KCC-1-SH (MMS-SH). The synthesized mesoporous materials were characterized using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray energy diffraction spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and mapping, nitrogen adsorption/desorption measurement, Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Their removal capacity for heavy metal ions was determined with flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Due to their large surface area, these adsorbents were used for the removal of Cu(II), Ni(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), and Pb(II) ions. The unmodified MMS exhibited removal capacities of 24.10, 28.54, 21.71, 32.5, and 30.06 mg/g for Cu(II), Ni(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), and Pb(II) ions, respectively. The removal of heavy metal ions by MMS followed a pseudo-first-order kinetic model and fit well with the Langmuir model. However, modifying the surface of the MMS with thiol groups significantly increased the removal capacity for all mentioned metal ions to 36.21, 32.83, 27.34, 48.75, and 41.40 mg/g, respectively. The removal of heavy metal ions by MMS-SH followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and fit well with the Temkin model. The antibacterial assays showed that the synthesized mesoporous materials were generally more effective against both planktonic Escherichia coli (gram-negative bacterium) and its ability to form biofilm compared to Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive bacterium). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the development of magnetic mesoporous silica functionalized with amine groups (MMS-NH2) for its combined capability in heavy metal removal and bacterial inhibition, aiming to address critical water treatment challenges. MMS-NH2 was successfully synthesized and meticulously characterized using various techniques: Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) for morphology, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis for surface area and porosity, X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystallinity, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for functional group identification, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) for thermal stability, and Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) for magnetic properties. The removal efficiency of five common heavy metals (Pb(II), Cu(II), Ni(II), Hg(II), and Cd(II)) from water using MMS-NH2 was investigated. influence of adsorbent dosage (0.05–2 g.L− 1), solution pH (2–10), and initial metal ion concentration (50–200 mg.L− 1) on the adsorption process was systematically investigated, revealing optimal conditions for each metal ion. Isotherm models (Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich) were employed to understand the adsorption mechanism, indicating a favorable and monolayer chemisorption process. Kinetic models (pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich) were used to study the adsorption kinetics, suggesting a rapid and chemisorption-controlled mechanism. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°) were calculated, confirming the spontaneous and exothermic nature of the adsorption process. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of MMS-NH2 was investigated against both Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. The results demonstrated significant inhibition rates, ranging from 70 to 90%, for both bacterial strains. The amine group functionalization is attributed to enhancing both heavy metal adsorption capacity and bacterial inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At a low activity comet the plasma is distributed in an asymmetric way. The hybrid simulation code Amitis is used to look at the spatial evolution of ion velocity distribution functions (VDFs), from the upstream solar wind (SW) to within the comet magnetosphere where the SW is heavily mass‐loaded by the cometary plasma. We find that the spatial structures of the ions and fields form a highly asymmetric induced magnetosphere. The VDFs of SW and cometary ions vary drastically for different locations in the comet magnetosphere. The shape of the VDFs differ for different species. The SW protons show high anisotropies that occasionally resemble partial rings, in particular at small cometocentric distances. A second, decoupled, proton population is also found. Solar wind alpha particles show similar anisotropies, although less pronounced and at different spatial scales. The VDFs of cometary ions are mostly determined by the structure of the electric field. We perform supplementary dynamic particle backtracing to understand the flow patterns of SW ions that lead to these anisotropic distributions. This tracing is needed to understand the origin of cometary ions in a given part of the comet magnetosphere. The particle tracing also aids in interpreting observed VDFs and relating them to spatial features in the electric and magnetic fields of the comet environment. Key Points: Hybrid simulations with the Amitis code for a low activity comet show the formation of an asymmetric induced magnetosphereThe velocity distributions of solar wind protons form partial rings in the simulation as previously reported by observationsBacktracing the cometary ions in the tail shows that the shape of their velocity distributions is driven by electric field structures [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GENDER: Zeitschrift für Geschlecht, Kultur und Gesellschaft is the property of Verlag Barbara Budrich GmbH and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Magnetosheath jets represent localized enhancements in dynamic pressure observed within the magnetosheath. These energetic entities, carrying excess energy and momentum, can impact the magnetopause and disrupt the magnetosphere. Therefore, they play a vital role in coupling the solar wind and terrestrial magnetosphere. However, our understanding of the morphology and formation of these complex, transient events remains incomplete over two decades after their initial observation. Previous studies have relied on oversimplified assumptions, considering jets as elongated cylinders with dimensions ranging from |$0.1\, R_{\rm E}$| to |$5\, R_{\rm E}$| (Earth radii). In this study, we present simulation results obtained from Amitis, a high-performance hybrid-kinetic plasma framework (particle ions and fluid electrons) running in parallel on graphics processing units (GPUs) for fast and more environmentally friendly computation compared to CPU-based models. Considering realistic scales, we present the first global, three-dimensional (3D in both configuration and velocity spaces) hybrid-kinetic simulation results of the interaction between solar wind plasma and the Earth. Our high-resolution kinetic simulations reveal the 3D structure of magnetosheath jets, showing that jets are far from being simple cylinders. Instead, they exhibit intricate and highly interconnected structures with dynamic 3D characteristics. As they move through the magnetosheath, they wrinkle, fold, merge, and split in complex ways before a subset reaches the magnetopause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary stones are a growing disease that results from pathological biomineralization. Cassia fistula Lin. is traditionally used to treat urinary stones. However, no scientific evidence is available to prove its antilithiatic effect. This study evaluates the antilithiatic potential of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Cassia fistula Lin. fruit (Cff) against calcium oxalate kidney stones. Forty‐two male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups (n = 6/group): Group I (control), Group II (rats treated with ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride developed nephrolithiasis after 28 days), Group III (lithiatic rats receiving distilled water for 30 days), Group IV and V (lithiatic rats receiving aqueous extract of Cff at doses of 1 and 100 mg/kg body weight for 30 days, respectively) and Group VI and VII (lithiatic rats receiving ethanolic extract of Cff at doses of 1 and 100 mg/kg body weight for 30 days, respectively). Some parameters of urine and serum, and also renal oxidative stress and histopathology were used to determine the antilithiatic effect of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Cff. Therefore, the types of extracts of Cff improved abnormal levels of urine, serum, and renal oxidative stress and histopathology parameters. This antilithiatic effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cff, can be attributed to the anti‐crystallization and antioxidant properties of the extracts and the ability to improve urine and serum biochemistry. Research Highlights: Ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride‐induced urolithiasis, aggregation of calcium oxalate deposits, increase of some urinary and serum parameters, relative kidney weight, kidney size and MDA activity, decrease of some urinary parameters, relative body weight and SOD activity.Aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cassia fistula Lin. lead to the treatment of urolithic rats by decreasing levels of urinary oxalate, phosphate, urea, serum urea, uric acid, creatinine, calcium, phosphate, MDA, kidney weight and kidney size, increasing levels of urinary calcium, creatinine, magnesium, citrate, body weight and SOD activity in the kidney, eliminating CaOx deposition (esp. ethanolic extract). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveys are an important vehicle for advancing research on urban policy and governance. The introduction of online tools eased survey-based data collection, making it cheaper and easier to obtain data from key informants like local elected officials or public administrators. However, the utility of web-based survey administration may be diminishing. To investigate this dynamic and search for strategies to support survey research in urban studies, we perform a systematic review of survey research in urban policy and administration scholarship and conduct an original survey follow-up experiment. Our findings identify a clear downward trend in survey response rates that was accentuated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results from our survey experiment show distinctly different costs per solicitation and per completed survey, depending on administration mode. These findings stimulate discussion on how scholars may continue to use surveys to generate high-quality, empirically rigorous research on urban affairs in light of recent trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability caused by trisomy of chromosome 21, presenting with intellectual impairment, craniofacial abnormalities, cardiac defects, and gastrointestinal disorders. The Ts65Dn mouse model replicates many abnormalities of DS. We hypothesized that investigation of the cerebral cortex of fluoxetine-treated trisomic mice may provide proteomic signatures that identify therapeutic targets for DS. Subcellular fractionation of synaptosomes from cerebral cortices of age- and brain-area-matched samples from fluoxetine-treated vs. water-treated trisomic and euploid male mice were subjected to HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry. Analysis of the data revealed enrichment of trisomic risk genes that participate in regulation of synaptic vesicular traffic, pre-synaptic and post-synaptic development, and mitochondrial energy pathways during early brain development. Proteomic analysis of trisomic synaptic fractions revealed significant downregulation of proteins involved in synaptic vesicular traffic, including vesicular endocytosis (CLTA, CLTB, CLTC), synaptic assembly and maturation (EXOC1, EXOC3, EXOC8), anterograde axonal transport (EXOC1), neurotransmitter transport to PSD (SACM1L), endosomal-lysosomal acidification (ROGDI, DMXL2), and synaptic signaling (NRXN1, HIP1, ITSN1, YWHAG). Additionally, trisomic proteomes revealed upregulation of several trafficking proteins, involved in vesicular exocytosis (Rab5B), synapse elimination (UBE3A), scission of endocytosis (DBN1), transport of ER in dendritic spines (MYO5A), presynaptic activity-dependent bulk endocytosis (FMR1), and NMDA receptor activity (GRIN2A). Chronic fluoxetine treatment of Ts65Dn mice rescued synaptic vesicular abnormalities and prevented abnormal proteomic changes in adult Ts65Dn mice, pointing to therapeutic targets for potential treatment of DS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reflection of solar wind protons as energetic neutral atoms (ENAs) from the lunar surface has regularly been used to study the plasma‐surface interaction at the Moon. However, there still exists a fundamental lack of knowledge of the scattering process. ENA emission from the surface is expected to similarly occur at Mercury and will be studied by BepiColombo. Understanding this solar wind backscattering will allow studies of both Mercury's plasma environment as well as properties of the hermean surface itself. Here, we expand on previous simulation studies of the solar‐wind‐regolith interaction with 3D grains in SDTrimSP‐3D to compare the predicted scattering energies and angles to ENA measurements from the Moon by the Chandrayaan‐1 and IBEX missions. The simulations reproduce a backward emission toward the Sun, which can be connected to the geometry of the regolith grain stacking. In contrast, the ENA energy distribution and its Maxwellian shape is mostly connected to the solar wind velocity. Our simulations also correctly describe a lunar ENA albedo between 10% and 20% and support its decrease with solar wind velocity. We further expand our studies to illustrate how BepiColombo will be able to observe ENAs at Mercury using hybrid simulations of Mercury's magnetosphere as an input for the complex surface precipitation patterns. We demonstrate that the variable ion precipitation will directly influence ENA emission from the surface. The orbits of BepiColombo's Mercury Planetary Orbiter and Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter/Mio spacecraft are shown to be suitable to observe ENA emission patterns both on a local and a global scale. Plain Language Summary: The Sun emits a continuous stream of charged particles, the solar wind. Recently, it was observed that these solar wind particles get reflected from the Moon in a similar way as it is the case for light from the Sun. The reflection is the result of a large number of collisions between the solar wind particles and atoms at the Moon's surface. This is expected to occur similarly at the planet Mercury. To better understand this process, we present a theoretical model of the reflection process. Our simulations take into account all the collisions with atoms, as well as the geometry of the lunar soil as a large number of loosely stacked grains. The model achieves very good agreement with most of the observations from the Moon, showing that sunward scattering and the scattering probability can be explained by the porous regolith. Consequently, we also sketch how particle scattering would occur at Mercury, where the solar wind only reaches the surface at select locations due to the planet's magnetic field. Our results confirm the variability of the scattered particles around Mercury and that the BepiColombo mission is well‐suited to observe them for imaging solar wind impacts onto the surface. Key Points: We model the solar wind proton reflection from lunar regolith grains to study energetic neutral atom (ENA) emission characteristicsENA emission angles are successfully connected to the regolith geometry, while ENA energies are mostly determined by the solar wind energyExpanding the model to Mercury, we predict ENA fluxes that will be observed by BepiColombo [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrafine-grained AZ31 Mg alloy processed through multipass equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) achieved 5 and 0.9 µm mean grain sizes after two and four passes, respectively. The deformation behaviour of the alloy was studied through tensile testing at high temperatures. A 410% superplastic elongation was achieved at 250°C during the tensile deformation of the four-pass-processed alloy. The Haehner criterion allowed the prediction of the stable uniform deformation of the alloy. The strain rate sensitivity of 0.38 and equiaxed microstructure suggested grain boundary sliding as the rate-controlling mechanism. The slip system's contribution to superplasticity was discussed using related Schmid factors. Slip activity prevalence at high strains induced a texture-strengthening effect and allowed low-angle grain boundary formation at high strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing demand for solving conflicts among water users and stakeholders under climate change conditions. This study applied ten CMIP5 climate models under the RCP8.5 scenario to simulate Doiraj Reservoir water allocation in Ilam Province. To reduce the uncertainty of climate models, the MOTP method was used by combining different GCM models. To predict reservoir inflow, the IHACRES Rainfall-Runoff model was considered and validated for the 2016 to 2044 time periods. Climate and hydrological indicators were extracted to monitor drought periods in the current and future projections. The WEAP model and the Asymmetric NASH Bargaining Method were used to simulate the water basin system and solve the conflict between stakeholders based on their utility functions, respectively. The results indicated that the rainfall would increase by 17.1 and 11.1% in spring and autumn and decrease by 9.4% in winter in the future projection. Furthermore, the highest temperature and runoff growth rate increased by 1.95°C in September and 6.3% compared to the base period, while demands would be increased by 55.75%. The long-term agricultural deficit are obtained as 10.9 and 10.2% by the WEAP model in the current and future conditions. Finally, the duration curve of reservoir storage showed that 20% of the time, the reservoir storage is empty for the Standard Operation Policy (SOP). By switching to the Nash bargaining policy, not only the minimum storage capacity reached 18 MCM for all the time, but also the effects of climate change would be adapted in the future, and the utility functions of all stakeholders would be satisfied as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent large-scale societal disruptions, from the COVID-19 pandemic to intensifying wildfires and weather events, reveal the importance of transforming governance systems so they can address complex, transboundary, and rapidly evolving crises. Yet current knowledge of the decision-making dynamics that yield transformative governance remains scant. Studies typically focus on the aggregate outputs of government decisions, while overlooking their micro-level underpinnings. This is a key oversight because drivers of policy change, such as learning or competition, are prosecuted by people rather than organizations. We respond to this knowledge gap by introducing a new analytical lens for understanding policymaking, aimed at uncovering how characteristics of decision-makers and the structure of their relationships affect their likelihood of effectuating transformative policy responses. This perspective emphasizes the need for a more dynamic and relational view on urban governance in the context of transformation. Highlights: 1. Policy-makers' attributes and social networks both shape urban transformative capacity. 2. A city's transformative capacity may be higher when actors involved in decision-making are more diverse. 3. Diversity spurs creativity and innovation by improving access to knowledge, learning opportunities, and skills. 4. Relationship quality, more specifically mutual trust, may help explain why some cities transform and others don't. 5. Facilitative leadership is key in safeguarding trust and ensuring diversity among decisionmakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new mixed-ligand oxidovanadium (IV) complex, [VO(DFX)(1,10-phen)], in which DFX = Deferasirox and 1,10-phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, was synthesized using the reflux method and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–Vis spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Distorted octahedral geometry is suggested for the complex. The DFX ligand is coordinated to the central atom by two phenolate oxygen atoms and one triazole nitrogen atom. Two nitrogen atoms of the 1,10-phen ligand and the oxo group occupy three other positions around the central atom. The in vitro antibacterial activity of the synthesized complex, metal precursor (VO(acac)2) and parent ligands was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial strains. Furthermore, the antibiofilm activity of these compounds was investigated against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria. Based on the obtained results, the [VO(DFX)(1,10-phen)] complex exhibited higher antibacterial and antibiofilm activities in comparison to VO(acac)2, DFX and 1,10-phen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, green corrosion inhibitors derived from natural plant resources have garnered much interest. In the present work, at first, we investigated the corrosion behavior of mild steel (st-37) in the presence, and absence of Dracocephalum extract based on bulk size as a corrosion inhibitor in two widely used acidic environments (0.5 M H2SO4, and 1.0 M HCl), at room temperature. Then, we used Dracocephalum extract based on nanometer size to reduce the optimal concentration of inhibitor, increase the corrosion resistant, and efficiency. Dracocephalum extract does not contain heavy metals or other toxic compounds, and also good characteristics such as low cost, eco-friendly, and widespread availability, make it suitable nature candidate as an environmentally safe green inhibitor. The anticorrosive behavior was assessed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization (PP). In all of the studies, the inhibitory efficiency (IE%) increased as the extract dose was increased. But by using nano extract, in addition to maintaining high efficiency, the amount of inhibitor was reduced significantly. The highest IE% is 94% at the best dose of nano extract (75 ppm), but the highest IE% is 89% at the best dose of the bulk extract (200 ppm) in H2SO4 solution. Also, for the HCl solution, the highest IE% is 88% at the best dose of nano extract (100 ppm), but the highest IE% is 90% at the best dose of the bulk extract (400 ppm), by polarization method. The PP results suggest that this compound has an effect on both anodic, and cathodic processes, and that it adsorbs on mild steel surface according to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, and a solid UV–Visible reflection spectrum were used to investigate the alloys' surface morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, at first, green SnO2@ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized using Calotropis plant extract as an electron transfer material (ETM) to fabricate low-temperature-processed perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Then, the polyaniline (PANI) polymer was applied as an efficient additive to improve perovskite film quality. Under the effects of the small content of PANI additive, the quality of perovskite films is enhanced, which showed higher crystallinity in (110) crystal plane; also, the perovskite grains were found to be enlarged from 342 to 588 nm. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the prepared PSCs with SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites electron transfer layer (ETL) increased by 3.12%, compared with the PCE of SnO2@ZnO nanocomposites. The perovskite devices using SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites ETL have shown good stability during 480 h of tests. Furthermore, the optimal PSCs were fabricated by the mp-TiO2/SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites as ETL, which has a power conversion efficiency of 15.45%. We expect that these results will boost the development of low-temperature ETL, which is essential for the commercializing of high-performance, stable, and flexible perovskite solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, at first, green SnO2@ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized using Calotropis plant extract as an electron transfer material (ETM) to fabricate low-temperature-processed perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Then, the polyaniline (PANI) polymer was applied as an efficient additive to improve perovskite film quality. Under the effects of the small content of PANI additive, the quality of perovskite films is enhanced, which showed higher crystallinity in (110) crystal plane; also, the perovskite grains were found to be enlarged from 342 to 588 nm. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the prepared PSCs with SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites electron transfer layer (ETL) increased by 3.12%, compared with the PCE of SnO2@ZnO nanocomposites. The perovskite devices using SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites ETL have shown good stability during 480 h of tests. Furthermore, the optimal PSCs were fabricated by the mp-TiO2/SnO2@ZnO.PANI nanocomposites as ETL, which has a power conversion efficiency of 15.45%. We expect that these results will boost the development of low-temperature ETL, which is essential for the commercializing of high-performance, stable, and flexible perovskite solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonal variation of phytoplankton, zooplankton (holoplankton) and ctenophore (Mnemiopsis leidyi) were investigated at eight transects from east to west in the South Caspian Sea. In spring (May), the most abundance of zooplankton was observed in the east area, where the temperature was over 19 °C, phytoplankton and M. leidyi were lower than 10 x 106 cells m-3 and 10 to 20 ind. m-3 respectively. In summer (August), the zooplankton and phytoplankton population increased by over 7000 ind. m-3 and over 50x106 cells m-3 in the east area respectively. When temperature was higher than 24 °C, M. leidyi increased in warm season (August) and also in November. Zooplankton and phytoplankton were elevated in winter and reached the maximum amount, while M. leidyi decreased sharply. In this study, we observed alterations in phytoplankton, zooplankton and M. leidyi in the South Caspian Sea from west to east along with the effects of temperature and seasonal variations on their distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are of intense scientific interest due to their unrivaled physicochemical characteristics, extraordinary thermal, electronic, mechanical, optical properties, and prospective applications in various nanotechnologies. Therefore, they are particular candidates for the development of new materials potentially applied in abundant applications. However, obtaining homogenous composite materials requires a good dispersion of BNNTs, as well in solvents or in the matrix, which still has remained challenging. The preparation of effective dispersions of BNNTs presents a major impediment to the extension and utilization of BNNTs. BNNTs intrinsically tend to bundle and/or aggregate. The prevention of such behavior has been explored by testing various techniques to improve the dispersibility of BNNTs in a variety of solvents. There are mainly two approaches to obtain a good quality dispersion; chemical functionalization and physical interactions. The chemical functionalization technique has been found effective, but deteriorates the intrinsic properties of BNNTs through the introduction of defects on the wall. Physical blending approaches with the ultrasound and high-speed shearing have been proven capable of debundling BNNTs and stabilizing individual BNNTs while maintaining their integrity and intrinsic properties. Attention has been brought to the study of the dispersion of BNNTs in aqueous media and most attention is paid to molecular dynamics (MD) simulation techniques and other physical techniques, as well as to the use of various surfactants and polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury has a terrestrial‐like magnetosphere which is usually taken as a scaled‐down‐version of Earth's magnetosphere with a similar current system. We examine Mercury's magnetospheric current system based on a survey of Mercury's magnetic field measured by the Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry, and Ranging spacecraft as well as computer simulations. We show that there is no significant Earth‐like ring current flowing westward around Mercury, instead, we find, for the first time, an eastward current (EC) encircling the planet near the night‐side magnetic equator with an altitude of ∼500–1,000 km. The EC is closed with the dayside magnetopause current and could be driven by the gradient of plasma pressure as a diamagnetic current. Thus, Mercury's magnetosphere is not a scaled‐down Earth magnetosphere, but a unique natural space plasma laboratory. Our findings offer fresh insights to analyze data from the BepiColombo mission, which is expected to orbit Mercury in 2025. Plain Language Summary: Whether Mercury possesses an Earth‐like ring current has long been the focus of controversy in planetary science and space science. Here, based on the statistical analysis of the magnetic field measured by Mercury Surface, Space Environment, Geochemistry, and Ranging, we show that Mercury has no significant Earth‐like ring current which flows westward around the planet, but we discover for the first time that there is an eastward current encircling the planet near the night side. Our discovery is verified by computer simulations and shows well consistence with the observation signatures found in previous studies. Our discovery updates the knowledge of the current system of Mercury's magnetosphere and demonstrates that the Mercury's magnetosphere cannot be simply seen as a scaled‐down‐version of Earth's magnetosphere. Key Points: We discovered an eastward current (EC) encircling Mercury on the night side for the first timeThe EC can be well reproduced by hybrid simulations and well fits the signatures found in previous studiesThe EC could be a diamagnetic current driven by a plasma pressure peak, and becomes more significant when interplanetary magnetic field is northward [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Moon and Mercury are airless bodies, thus they are directly exposed to the ambient plasma (ions and electrons), to photons mostly from the Sun from infrared range all the way to X-rays, and to meteoroid fluxes. Direct exposure to these exogenic sources has important consequences for the formation and evolution of planetary surfaces, including altering their chemical makeup and optical properties, and generating neutral gas exosphere. The formation of a thin atmosphere, more specifically a surface bound exosphere, the relevant physical processes for the particle release, particle loss, and the drivers behind these processes are discussed in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthesis methods by plant extracts leads to production of metal nanoparticles without using harsh, toxic, and expensive chemicals commonly used in physical/chemical processes. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared easily, fast, cost-effectively and successfully using aqueous galls extract of Quercus infectoria (Q. infectoria) as a reducing and capping agent. The results revealed that AgNPs were highly stable and their morphologies were spherical with an average diameter of about 33 nm. The galls extract and AgNPs showed excellent antibacterial activities toward four types of bacteria. The antioxidant ability of galls extract and AgNPs was evaluated by DPPH assay and showed considerable antioxidant potential. Cytotoxic activity of AgNPs was tested by MTT assay. AgNPs exhibited significant anticancer activity against human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). AgNPs synthesized by Q. infectoria galls extract with high antibacterial, antioxidant and anticancer activity would be favorable systems for bacterial disease and cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the dynamics of the thermal O+ and H+ ions at Ganymede's magnetopause when Ganymede is inside and outside of the Jovian plasma sheet using a three-dimensional hybrid model of plasma (kinetic ions, fluid electrons). We present the global structure of the electric fields and power density (E · J) in the magnetosphere of Ganymede and show that the power density at the magnetopause is mainly positive and on average is +0.95 and +0.75 nW/m3 when Ganymede is inside and outside the Jovian plasma sheet, respectively, but locally it reaches over +20 nW/m3. Our kinetic simulations show that ion velocity distributions at the vicinity of the upstream magnetopause of Ganymede are highly non-Maxwellian. We investigate the energization of the ions interacting with the magnetopause and find that the energy of those particles on average increases by a factor of 8 and 30 for the O+ and H+ ions, respectively. The energy of these ions is mostly within 1-100 keV for both species after interaction with the magnetopause, but a few percentages reach to 0.1-1 MeV. Our kinetic simulations show that a small fraction (25%) of the corotating Jovian plasma reach the magnetopause, but among those >50% cross the high-power density regions at the magnetopause and gain energy. Finally, we compare our simulation results with Galileo observations of Ganymede's magnetopause crossings (i.e., G8 and G28 flybys). There is an excellent agreement between our simulations and observations, particularly our simulations fully capture the size and structure of the magnetosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jovian magnetospheric plasma irradiates the surface of Ganymede and is postulated to be the primary agent that changes the surface brightness of Ganymede, leading to asymmetries between polar and equatorial regions as well as between the trailing and leading hemispheres. As impinging ions sputter surface constituents as neutrals, ion precipitation patterns can be remotely imaged using the Energetic Neutral Atoms (ENA) measurement technique. Here we calculate the expected sputtered ENA flux from the surface of Ganymede to help interpret future observations by ENA instruments, particularly the Jovian Neutrals Analyzer (JNA) onboard the JUpiter ICy moon Explorer (JUICE) spacecraft. We use sputtering models developed based on laboratory experiments to calculate sputtered fluxes of H2O, O2, and H2. The input ion population used in this study is the result of test particle simulations using electric and magnetic fields from a hybrid simulation of Ganymede's environment. This population includes a thermal component (H+ and O+ from 10 eV to 10 keV) and an energetic component (H+, O++, and S+++ from 10 keV to 10 MeV). We find a global ENA sputtering rate from Ganymede of 1.42 × 1027 s-1, with contributions from H2, O2, and H2O of 34%, 17%, and 49% respectively. We also calculate the energy distribution of sputtered Energetic Neutral Atoms (ENAs), give an estimate of a typical JNA count rate at Ganymede, and investigate latitudinal variations of sputtered fluxes along a simulated orbit track of the JUICE spacecraft. Our results demonstrate the capability of the JNA sensor to remotely map ion precipitation at Ganymede. Plain Language Summary Particles trapped by Jupiter's magnetic field interact with Jupiter's moons. Ganymede, the largest of those moons, lacks a dense atmosphere to protect its surface from these energetic Jovian particles, but Ganymede's magnetic field is strong enough to influence their trajectory: charged particles are deflected away from equatorial regions to polar regions, resulting in uneven particle precipitation patterns at the surface of Ganymede. When ions hit the surface of Ganymede, they eject particles from the surface, in a process referred to as sputtering. Those particles are mostly neutral and therefore unaffected by Ganymede's magnetic fields, so we can image where ions hit the surface of Ganymede by measuring ejected neutral particles. The Jovian Neutrals Analyzer (JNA) will fly onboard the JUpiter ICy moon Explorer (JUICE) spacecraft and will measure sputtered neutrals in the vicinity of Ganymede. To help interpret the data to be collected by JNA, we used models derived from laboratory experiments to simulate what JNA will observe at Ganymede. Our results show that JNA will be able to show us where ions hit the surface of Ganymede, which is important as uneven ion precipitation is thought to explain why Ganymede's poles are brighter than its equatorial regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a facile and fast green synthesis of highly stable and well-dispersed copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) was successfully carried out using aqueous extract of galls of Quercus infectoria (Q. infectoria) as a reducing and capping agent along with ultrasonic irradiation. XRD pattern indicated the formation of the end-centered monoclinic structure of highly pure CuO-NPs with a crystallite size of 30 nm. SEM image of CuO-NPs exhibited spherical morphology with an average size of 20 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy clearly demonstrated the presence of copper and oxygen elements that confirms the purity of biosynthesized copper oxide nanoparticles. TEM image revealed that the morphology of CuO-NPs was spherical. Antibacterial activity of the Q. infectoria galls extract and CuO-NPs was evaluated against two Gram-positive bacteria and four Gram-negative bacteria. The novelty of this study is that for the first time galls of Q. infectoria were used for the synthesis of CuO-NPs. The results confirmed that CuO-NPs have been successfully synthesized in a fast, cost effectively, eco-environmentally friendly, nontoxic and also easy method. Antibacterial assays revealed that CuO-NPs are potentially a good source of antimicrobial activity and demonstrating its importance for applying in biomedicine, packaging and general usage such as battery and ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deformation behavior of a rolled Mg–Y–Nd–Gd magnesium alloy was studied at a temperature range of 240–480 °C under plane strain compression. Two types of samples including different loading-constraining configurations were employed to study anisotropy in deformation response. The result showed that plane strain deformation mode extends the temperature range for predominance of twinning up to 480 °C. However, yield anisotropy was diminished by increasing temperature to 480 °C. Moreover, plane strain deformation mode caused the development of dynamic recrystallization to be postponed to high strains. Deformation behavior of the two sample types were explained by calculation of Schmid factor and texture analysis. Fine dynamically recrystallized grains were traced to form at 420 and 480 °C. Relying on EBSD analysis, the development of new grains was explained using continuous dynamic recrystallization mechanism, where pyramidal and prismatic poles of new grains were rotated relative to their parent grain. The dynamic evolution of metastable β′ and β″ phases was also observed at high temperatures, the fraction of which was remarkably increased with increasing temperature to 420 and 480 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel V(V) dimer complex [VO(DFX)(BuO)]2.BuOH, (DFX=deferasirox, BuOH=1‐butanol) was synthesized and fully characterized by elemental analysis, 1HNMR, 51V NMR, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and molar conductivity. The spectroscopically predicted structure of the synthesized Vanadium complex was also verified by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The deferasirox ligand is coordinated to V(V) center in a tridentate fashion by two phenolate oxygen atoms and one triazole nitrogen atom, with one of the phenolates acting as bridging ligand in the dimer complex. The coordination sphere is completed by oxo group and butanolate anion. The antibacterial activities of deferasirox and its V(V) dimer complex were investigated using the zone of inhibition and the minimal inhibitory concentration of the dilution assays against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria strains. The antibiofilm potential of these compounds was also examined by evaluating their activity against biofilm formation of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa bacteria strains. Additionally, free‐radical‐scavenging ability of compounds was evaluated by their interaction with the stable free radical 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Generally, in all assays the V(V) synthesized complex, demonstrated a moderate and selective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under nominal solar wind conditions, a tenuous wake forms downstream of the lunar nightside. However, the lunar plasma environment undergoes a transformation as the Moon passes through the Earth's magnetotail, with hot subsonic plasma causing the wake structure to disappear. We investigate the lunar wake response during a passing coronal mass ejection (CME) on March 8, 2012 while crossing the Earth's magnetotail using both a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model of the terrestrial magnetosphere and a three-dimensional hybrid plasma model of the lunar wake. The CME arrives at 1 AU around 10:30 UT and its impact is first detected inside the geomagnetic tail after 11:10 UT by the Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the Moon's Interaction with the Sun (THEMIS-ARTEMIS) satellites in lunar orbit. A global magnetospheric MHD simulation using Wind data for upstream conditions with the OpenGGCM model reveals the magnetosheath compression to the lunar position from 11:20--12:00 UT, accompanied by multiple flux rope or plasmoid-like features developing and propagating tailward. MHD results support plasma changes observed by the THEMIS-ARTEMIS satellites. Lunar-scale simulations using the Amitis hybrid code show a short and misaligned plasma wake during the Moon's brief entry into the magnetosheath at 11:20 UT, with plasma expansion into the void being aided by the higher plasma temperatures. Sharply accelerated flow speed and a compressed magnetic field lead to an enhanced electric field in the lunar wake capable of generating sudden changes to the nightside near-surface electric potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under nominal solar wind conditions, a tenuous wake forms downstream of the lunar nightside. However, the lunar plasma environment undergoes a transformation as the Moon passes through the Earth's magnetotail, with hot subsonic plasma causing the wake structure to disappear. We investigate the lunar wake response during a passing coronal mass ejection (CME) on March 8, 2012 while crossing the Earth's magnetotail using both a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model of the terrestrial magnetosphere and a three‐dimensional hybrid plasma model of the lunar wake. The CME arrives at 1 AU around 10:30 UT and its impact is first detected inside the geomagnetic tail after 11:10 UT by the Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the Moon's Interaction with the Sun (THEMIS‐ARTEMIS) satellites in lunar orbit. A global magnetospheric MHD simulation using Wind data for upstream conditions with the OpenGGCM model reveals the magnetosheath compression to the lunar position from 11:20–12:00 UT, accompanied by multiple flux rope or plasmoid‐like features developing and propagating tailward. MHD results support plasma changes observed by the THEMIS‐ARTEMIS satellites. Lunar‐scale simulations using the Amitis hybrid code show a short and misaligned plasma wake during the Moon's brief entry into the magnetosheath at 11:20 UT, with plasma expansion into the void being aided by the higher plasma temperatures. Sharply accelerated flow speed and a compressed magnetic field lead to an enhanced electric field in the lunar wake capable of generating sudden changes to the nightside near‐surface electric potential.Key Points: Passing coronal mass ejection (CME) during a Full Moon distorts the magnetopause and magnetosheath, resulting in the Moon's removal from the geomagnetic tailCME arrival results in the redevelopment of a short optically misaligned lunar plasma wakeEvent conditions are favorable for the development of flux‐rope like plasmoids in the magnetotail capable of being detected at the Moon [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dendrimer has a high degree of geometric symmetry, a precise and controllable molecular size, a large number of surface-active functional groups, a rich cavity inside the molecule, and a controlled molecular chain growth. The unique structural properties of the above-mentioned macromolecules have made it a research hot spot in many fields. Molecular simulation technology, as a new scientific research method, plays an important role in the basic theory and applied research of dendrimers. This paper reviews the basic progress of molecular simulation technology in the field of dendrimers in recent years, including the application of dendrimers in medicine, DNA, pharmaceutical carriers, proteins, amino acids, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of porous graphene, especially experimental research, is a challenging issue in related academic and technology and has become a hot topic in recent years. It is well known that the preparation of porous graphene is a difficult problem in experimental techniques. To prepare nanoporous graphene, much attention must focus on the quality of nanoporous structures and throughput array pores. Therefore, a comprehensive summary as much as possible has been made to provide a better understanding of the progress. A summary of synthesis techniques, the properties of nanoporous graphene membranes from the synthesis point of view, and potential applications of porous graphene and graphene oxide for gas separation on the basis of theoretical studies were given attention in this paper. Gas separation, including carbon dioxide capture, gas storage, natural gas sweetening, and flue gas purification through porous graphene, is of great interest. Porous graphene with narrow pore distribution provides exciting opportunities in gas separation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the effects of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) orientation and solar wind dynamic pressure on the solar wind proton precipitation to the surface of Mercury using a hybrid‐kinetic model. We use our model to explain observations of Mercury's neutral sodium exosphere and compare our results with MESSENGER observations. For the typical solar wind dynamic pressure at Mercury our model shows a high proton flux precipitates through the magnetospheric cusps to the high latitudes on both hemispheres on the dayside, centered near the noon meridian with ∼11° latitudinal extent in the north and ∼21° latitudinal extent in the south, which is consistent with MESSENGER observations. We show that this two‐peak pattern is controlled by the radial component (Bx) of the IMF and not the Bz. Our model suggests that the southward IMF and its associated magnetic reconnection do not play a major role in controlling plasma precipitation to the surface of Mercury through the cusps. We found that the total precipitation rate through both of the cusps remain constant and independent of the IMF orientation. We also show that the solar wind proton incidence rate to the entire surface of Mercury is higher when the IMF has a northward component and nearly half of the incidence flux impacts the low latitudes on the nightside. During extreme solar events (e.g., coronal mass ejections), our model suggests that over 70 nPa solar wind dynamic pressure is required for the entire surface of Mercury to be exposed to the solar wind plasma. Key Points: Radial component of the IMF controls the precipitation patterns to the surfaceProton incidence rate to the entire surface is higher when the IMF has a northward componentSum of the incidence rate through both cusps remains constant for different IMF orientations [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The community composition of benthic macrofauna and relationships between physiochemical parameters of the water and sediment texture were assessed in Hara Biosphere Reserve, Northern Persian Gulf. The spatial distribution and diversity of macrobenthos were sampled within three distinctive mangrove zones (deltaic, island and coastal) during two sampling seasons between August 2014 and January 2015. A total of nine transects perpendicular to the coastline were selected to cover over the entire study area. The counts of all macrofauna were recorded from each zone and station with three replicate sediment samples. The snails, Cerithidea cingulata and Asseminea sp., were observed throughout three mangrove zones, but their abundance varied among habitats. The bivalve Dosinia ceylonica found to be more abundant in delta, whereas burrowing crabs Ocypode and Uca were dominate in coastal zone. Terebralia palustris and amphipods were recorded frequently in island zone. The nonmetric multidimensional scaling ordinations and a three-way factor PERMANOVA indicated that macro-invertebrate species composition significantly differed among different mangrove zones. The results also showed the seasonal variations. The findings of diversity indices illustrated that deltaic zone had the highest abundance and diversity, while the coastal zone showed the lowest values among the three zones. Taken together, the observations demonstrated that the different hydrological conditions, temperature, salinity and sediment texture were the main factors determining dispersion of benthic faunal assemblages among different mangrove habitats at Hara Biosphere Reserve. There is a need to consider such variables in ecological studies to understand differences of macrofaunal diversities in these complex habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been increased interest in the use of representative areas as tools for the conservation of marine habitats and species. This has resulted in the declaration of many coastal–marine protected areas around the world. The criteria for the establishment of these areas have been suggested by different authors and international bodies, and for each region or country, that has to be done according to its characteristics, conditions and facilities. In this study, the already established criteria were revised based on new views and approaches at the international levels and the background experiences in the country. This revision was made by using expert choice approach and analytical hierarchy process method. In this regard, a hierarchy tree was made and scored for all physical features and habitats and upon the results, six criteria were selected compared to already established 15 criteria. These were then used with the same method to choose the subcriteria for the Hormozgan province and to map these resources. Altogether, 31 subcriteria were recognized, and then, total score for each area was calculated and encoded into five conservation groups which mapped alongside the coastline and the marine parts. These criteria and subcriteria established in this way are flexible and subject against any changes whenever it is necessary in the future. The result of this study could be applied for other regions of the country and could act for the selection of coastal–marine protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyses of lunar samples suggest the Moon once possessed a dynamo from ~4.25 Ga until perhaps as recently as 1 Ga, with surface field strengths between ~5 and 100 μT. While the exact timing, strength, and structure of these paleomagnetic fields are not precisely known, such relatively strong fields imply that the Moon also likely possessed a magnetosphere. Here, we present hybrid plasma simulations of the structure and morphology of the putative lunar "paleo‐magnetosphere" for varying surface field strengths and orientations, using ambient solar wind conditions representative of the early Sun. The presence of the paleo‐magnetosphere reduces total solar wind fluxes to the lunar surface overall yet, for a spin‐aligned dynamo, increases the relative solar wind flux to the lunar polar regions. In turn, the paleo‐magnetosphere may have altered the rate of volatile accretion to the Moon over its history. Plain Language Summary: While the Moon currently does not possess a global magnetic field like the Earth, analyses of lunar rocks suggest that the Moon did possess a global magnetic field between 1 and 4.25 billion years ago. The field is estimated to be ~10% to 100% of the strength of Earth's present‐day magnetic field. Such relatively strong magnetic fields at the Moon will form a magnetosphere, or a region of space surrounding the Moon where lunar magnetic fields dominate over the plasma and magnetic fields of the solar wind (a stream of charged particles emanating from the Sun). We use computer simulations to model the lunar paleo‐magnetosphere with different field strengths and calculate the rate at which solar wind ions can still access the surface. The paleo‐magnetosphere reduces the solar wind precipitation rate overall but focuses particles into the poles if the magnetic field is aligned with the Moon's spin axis. Key Points: We have performed the first plasma simulations of the interaction of the Moon's ancient dynamo field and the solar windDynamo fields of 0.5–5 μT decrease the global solar wind H+ surface flux by 60–90%; polar region flux increases by nearly tenfoldThese changes in global and polar fluxes of H+ may influence the rates of accumulation and weathering of polar volatile deposits [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the structure and composition of the lunar interior is fundamental to furthering our knowledge of the formation and subsequent evolution of the Earth‐Moon system. Among various methods, electromagnetic sounding is a valuable approach to constraining lunar interior structure. While Apollo‐era electromagnetic sounding analyses of lunar magnetometer observations reported constraints on the lunar interior structure, the presence of perturbing plasma currents and magnetic fields was often regarded as a second‐order correction. Here, we use AMITIS, a three‐dimensional, time‐dependent hybrid plasma model with a conducting lunar interior to demonstrate that electromagnetic fields from the lunar wake and from the lunar interior interact and thereby alter geophysically induced electromagnetic fields. Our results indicate that electromagnetic sounding of airless bodies interacting with a conductive plasma and exposed to a time‐varying magnetic field must be interpreted via plasma models in order to untangle plasma and induced field contributions. Plain Language Summary: Magnetic field observations near the Moon can be used to remotely detect the interior. These observations can be related back to composition, structure, and temperature. This technique was applied during Apollo using a surface magnetometer and in orbit. When the Moon is outside of the Earth's magnetic field, the lunar surface interacts directly with the solar wind plasma particles from the Sun. The Moon's presence interrupts this steady flow of plasma by absorbing particles on the sunlit side, while a region of no particles forms on the opposite side. This plasma wake generates its own magnetic fields that interact with interior fields. In order to understand any contribution to the observations, we apply a new computer simulation, which solves first principles equations to determine the plasma wake and interior fields in three dimensions and in time. This novel technique provides a new understanding of the Moon‐plasma magnetic field interaction and improves previous models that neglected this interaction. Previous interpretations assumed any interior fields on the nightside were trapped within the plasma wake cavity; however, we see these magnetic fields are coupled with the wake magnetic fields. This is applicable to any airless body in a similar space‐plasma environment. Key Points: A time‐dependent hybrid plasma model studies the interaction of induced magnetic fields and the lunar plasma environmentInduced magnetic fields from the lunar interior self‐consistently couple with ambient plasma and thereby differ from analytic predictionsCoupling of plasma interaction with induction must be accounted for in electromagnetic sounding studies of airless bodies [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fragile X mental retardation 1 knockout (Fmr1 KO) mouse replicates behavioral deficits associated with autism, fragile X syndrome, and schizophrenia. Less is known whether protein expression changes are consistent with findings in subjects with schizophrenia. In the current study, we used liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) proteomics to determine the protein expression of four subcellular fractions in the forebrains of Fmr1 KO mice vs. C57BL/6 J mice and the effect of a negative allosteric modulator of mGluR5—2‐Methyl‐6‐(phenylethynyl)pyridine (MPEP)—on protein expression. Strain‐ and treatment‐specific differential expression of proteins was observed, many of which have previously been observed in the brains of subjects with schizophrenia. Western blotting verified the direction and magnitude of change for several proteins in different subcellular fractions as follows: neurofilament light protein (NEFL) and 2′,3′‐cyclic‐nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase (CNP) in the total homogenate; heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins C1/C2 (HNRNPC) and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D0 (HNRNPD) in the nuclear fraction; excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2) and ras‐related protein rab 3a (RAB3A) in the synaptic fraction; and ras‐related protein rab 35 (RAB35) and neuromodulin (GAP43) in the rough endoplasmic reticulum fraction. Individuals with FXS do not display symptoms of schizophrenia. However, the biomarkers that have been identified suggest that the Fmr1 KO model could potentially be useful in the study of schizophrenia. Concordant changes in protein expression in subcellular compartments [total homogenate, synapse, nucleus, and rough endoplasmic reticulum (rER)] via proteomics and western blotting in forebrain neurons of fragile X mental retardation knockout (Fmr1 KO) mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation, we aimed to study diversity and cell abundance of phytoplankton in the southwest of the Caspian Sea. This survey included 4 transects and 12 stations. A total of 48 samples were collected during spring 2012 and spring 2013. Finally, 72 species of phytoplankton were identified including phyla Diatoms (29 species), Chlorophyta (17 species), Pyrrophyta (16 species), Cyanophyta (6 species), and Euglenophyta (4 species). The total average of cell abundance was approximately 43.55 ± 5.10 × 104 cells/m3. The number of recorded species in spring, summer, autumn, and winter was 46, 50, 41 and 39, respectively. Diatoms had the highest species diversity and cell abundance in winter related to Thalassionema nitzschiodes at a depth of 10 m. Seasonal changes in diversity of phytoplankton significantly differed, showing maximum in autumn with high diversity index (2.532) and minimum in spring (2.201) on Shannon Diversity Index. Finally, the quality of water is classified according to this index in the middle level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrafine/nano-grained AZ31 magnesium alloy was processed through multipass accumulative back extrusion at 280 and 380 °C. Texture analysis was conducted to determine preferred crystallographic orientations developed during multipass deformation. The anisotropy in mechanical properties of the processed materials was studied by compressive and tensile testing. The results implied that the accumulative back extrusion effectively reduces the anisotropy of yield strength, ultimate strength and strain-to-fracture during compressive and tensile loading. The operations of different twinning/slip systems during compressive and tensile deformation were discussed using Schmid factors measurements. A decrease in twinning-related anisotropy, as well as the contribution of different slip systems in strain accommodation, could reduce the mechanical anisotropy of ultrafine/nano-grained AZ31 alloy. The compressive strength of the two-pass processed material was lower along extrusion direction than transverse direction; however, the result was reverse after four passes. The tensile behavior implied that the contribution of basal slip might accommodate strain along length as well as the thickness of the specimen, while prismatic slip may assist in narrowing the width of the specimen and elongating the length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the antiurolithiasic effects of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of cactus prickly pear fruit in male Wistar rats. The effect of oral administration of cactus fruit extracts were studied on calcium oxalate urolithiasis. Forty-two rats were used for the study. The animals were divided into seven groups of six animals each. Control group maintained on regular rat food and drinking water throughout the study period, whereas in other groups nephrolithiasis was induced by ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride. Rats in kidney stone group were sacrificed after 28 days and all remaining groups after 58 days. Treatment groups were treated with 1 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cactus fruit for 30 days. Urinary calcium level was decreased significantly by ethanolic extracts of cactus fruit and urinary creatinine, magnesium and citrate levels were increased significantly by aqueous and ethanolic extracts of cactus fruit dose dependently. Serum phosphorus level was decreased significantly in treatment groups dose dependently and serum creatinine, urea and uric acid levels were found to be similar as in control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganymede is the solar system's only known moon with an intrinsic, global magnetic field. This field is strong enough to stand off the incident Jovian magnetospheric flow to form a small, complex magnetosphere around the satellite. Ganymede's magnetosphere is thought to be responsible for variable surface weathering patterns, the production of a neutral exosphere, and the generation of UV aurorae near Ganymede's open‐closed field line boundaries; however, the exact details and underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. We use results from three‐dimensional hybrid models of Ganymede's magnetosphere and a three‐dimensional particle tracing model to quantify the dynamics of thermal and energetic Jovian ions as they interact with Ganymede's magnetosphere and precipitate to the surface. We identify the formation of quasi‐trapped ionic radiation belts in the model and variable surface weathering. Most of the particle precipitation occurs in Ganymede's polar caps, yet ions also precipitate onto Ganymede's equatorial region in lesser amounts due to particle shadowing of quasi‐trapped ions in Ganymede's ionic radiation belts. Model results predict that within Jupiter's central plasma sheet, total ion fluxes to Ganymede's polar, leading, and trailing hemispheres are 50 × 106, 10 × 106, and 0.06 × 106 cm−2 · s−1, respectively. Finally, convolution of incident ions fluxes with neutral sputtering yields for icy bodies predicts neutral sputtered fluxes in Ganymede's polar, leading, and trailing hemispheres of 1.3 × 109, 4.8 × 108, and 1.2 × 108 neutrals cm−2 · s−1, respectively. Together, we estimate that Ganymede loses 7.5 × 1026 neutral particles per second, or assuming a mean mass of 18 amu, approximately 23 kg/s, half that estimated for Europa. Key Points: Thermal and energetic ion tracing is performed using hybrid simulations of Ganymede's magnetosphereSurface ion fluxes are concentrated in Ganymede's poles, with additional energetic ion precipitation in equatorial regionWe discuss implications for surface weathering and exospheric generation at Ganymede by ion irradiation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of oral administration of Cactus fruit extracts on calcium oxalate deposition, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in rat model. About 42 rats were used for the study. The animals were divided into seven groups. Control group maintained on regular rat food and drinking water throughout the study period, whereas in other groups nephrolithiasis was induced by ethylene glycol. Rats in kidney stone group were sacrificed after 28 days and all remaining groups after 58 days. Treatment groups were treated with 1 and 100 mg/kg of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cactus fruit for 30 days. After treatment, SOD activity was increased and MDA was decreased significantly. CaOx depositions were decreased significantly, especially in ethanolic extract of Cactus fruit in high dose (100 mg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the effect of temperature gradient on the behavior of a water nano-droplet resting on a suspended graphene was studied based on a non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation. The acquired results indicate that the applied temperature gradient to the suspended graphene drives the water nano-droplet to the colder region. The droplet accelerates its motion toward the cold reservoir as the temperature gradient is increased. In addition to the translational motion of the nano-droplet, the vortical motion of the water molecules was also observed. Contact angle analysis was also utilized to describe the directional motion of the nano-droplet. The translational motion of the droplet leads to the estimation of contact angle hysteresis through advancing and receding contact angles while the rotational motion resulted in the advancing and receding fronts being switched with one another through the simulation. The average displacement vector of the water molecules shows that parts of the droplet seem to stagnate while other parts rotate around them. The reason behind this particular behavior was studied based on interaction energy contours between a water molecule and the suspended graphene. The obtained data indicate that the rotational motion is in agreement with the migration of the water molecules to low interaction energy regions in order to avoid high interaction energy areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hot compression tests of a new high-Mn austenitic steel were carried out at deformation temperatures of 700, 800, 900, and 1000 °C under strain rate of 0.01 s−1. The hot deformation behavior was investigated by the analyses of flow curves, texture, and deformed microstructures. Microstructures of the deformed specimens and macrotexture were examined using electron backscatter diffraction and x-ray diffraction methods, respectively. The results showed that the flow stress depended strongly on the deformation temperature and decreased by increasing deformation temperature. The microstructural evidence indicated that the dynamic recrystallization (DRX) process of experimental steel was initiated at 800 °C with necklace structure. The volume fraction of DRX grains was considerably increased by increasing deformation temperature to 1000 °C. Texture of the DRX grains tended to become a weak texture and was associated with the formation of Goss and R-Cube components. Meanwhile, martensitic transformation was detected in the hot-deformed austenite. The martensitic transformation was the most difficult in the DRX grains because of the effect of small grain size. The tendency of transformation was decreased after compression at 1000 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper has utilised a comprehensive numerical investigation to assess the load distribution factors of steel-concrete composite box and I-girder bridges when subjected to different international bridge design loading configurations such as Australian Bridge Design Code and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). In this study, the effect of different parameters such as span length, number of loading lanes and number of cells/girders are investigated. Different types of elements such as solid element, shell element and beam element are examined to find a suitable finite element model to accurately simulate the components of these bridge structures. The accuracy of the finite element models is confirmed with available experimental results. A large number of results are produced by varying the values of the different parameters which are used to determine the load distribution factors for bending moment and shear force of box and I-girder bridges. Design guidelines in the form of empirical expressions for the load distribution factors are also derived from this big database. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]