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This paper reports a novel prototype of heterojunction solar cells based on semiconductor/perovskite structure using the solar cell capacitance one-dimensional simulator (SCAPS 1D). The device schematic consists of Glass/ITO/ETL/MASnBr3/CZTGS/HTL layers with perovskite i-MASnBr3as the permeable layer. The thickness of the absorber layer, carrier charge concentration, and the effect of temperature and series resistances are optimized. The research examines several critical parameters essential for solar cell performance, including a power conversion efficiency PCE of 50%, an open-circuit voltage Vocof 1.62 V, a fill factor FF of 91.5%, and a short-circuit current density Jscof -34.06 mA/ cm2. The temperature and series resistance effects, as well as quantum efficiency QE, and J-V curve simulations with varying acceptor density, are investigated.

IMPORTANCE: Understanding of the genetics of accessory atrioventricular pathways (APs) and affiliated arrhythmias is limited. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the genetics of APs and affiliated arrhythmias. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This was a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of APs, defined by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes and/or confirmed by electrophysiology (EP) study. Genome-wide significant AP variants were tested for association with AP-affiliated arrhythmias: paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), atrial fibrillation (AF), ventricular tachycardia, and cardiac arrest. AP variants were also tested in data on other heart diseases and measures of cardiac physiology. Individuals with APs and control individuals from Iceland (deCODE Genetics), Denmark (Copenhagen Hospital Biobank, Danish Blood Donor Study, and SupraGen/the Danish General Suburban Population Study [GESUS]), the US (Intermountain Healthcare), and the United Kingdom (UK Biobank) were included. Time of phenotype data collection ranged from January 1983 to December 2022. Data were analyzed from August 2022 to January 2024. EXPOSURES: Sequence variants. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Genome-wide significant association of sequence variants with APs. RESULTS: The GWAS included 2310 individuals with APs (median [IQR] age, 43 [28-57] years; 1252 [54.2%] male and 1058 [45.8%] female) and 1 206 977 control individuals (median [IQR] year of birth, 1955 [1945-1970]; 632 888 [52.4%] female and 574 089 [47.6%] male). Of the individuals with APs, 909 had been confirmed in EP study. Three common missense variants were associated with APs, in the genes CCDC141 (p.Arg935Trp: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.37; 95% CI, 1.24-1.52, and p.Ala141Val: aOR, 1.55; 95% CI 1.34-1.80) and SCN10A (p.Ala1073Val: OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.15-1.30). The 3 variants associated with PSVT and the SCN10A variant associated with AF, supporting an effect on AP-affiliated arrhythmias. All 3 AP risk alleles were associated with higher heart rate and shorter PR interval, and have reported associations with chronotropic response. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Associations were found between sequence variants and APs that were also associated with risk of PSVT, and thus likely atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia, but had allele-specific associations with AF and conduction disorders. Genetic variation in the modulation of heart rate, chronotropic response, and atrial or atrioventricular node conduction velocity may play a role in the risk of AP-affiliated arrhythmias. Further research into CCDC141 could provide insights for antiarrhythmic therapeutic targeting in the presence of an AP.

In insurance companies, the ruin probability is considered as the one of the main risk measures developed in risk theory, and the problems of its calculation and approximation have attracted a lot of attention. Statistical estimation have been investigated on the ruin probability in infinite time for heavy-tailed insurance loses. However, these estimation suffer heavily from under-coverage or have a bias problem. We therefore need another method for estimating the probability of ruin in infinite time for heavy-tailed losses. This is why, in this paper, we propose a reduced-bias estimator for the ruin probability in infinite time for heavy-tailed distributions with an index in the upper half of the unit interval. Our approach is based on a reduced-bias estimator for this specific index in the context of heavy-tailed distributions. Additionally, we demonstrate the behavior of the proposed estimator and compare it to the classical estimator in terms of bias and mean squared error. The simulation results clearly show that our bias reduction methodology performs well.

ABSTRACTOstensibly, Husserl’s work doesn’t seem to allow for a conceptualization of a properly collective memory, i.e. a shared memory, common to all members of a somewhat tightly unified group. Indeed, Husserl’s view of a collective, at least the one most often presented in his works, appears to be one of a collective equivalent either to an “anyone and everyone” or to an aggregate sum of parts, to a loosely unified composite. All memory of members of such a collective would itself be adjusted accordingly. However, Husserl also develops an idea of a collective, the “personality of a higher order” – as well as an idea of correlative social acts – which might present good candidates for authentic collectives and collective acts, including memories. This paper will attempt to clarify the constitution of said collectives and acts based on the model of Husserlian generativity understood stricto sensuand “from within”.

Traffic congestion and rising intra-city mobility are the major challenges in today's cities. Freight vehicle travels account for a portion of the rise in trips. Moreover, freight travel increases the overall cost of travel—not only in the movement of products but also in the mobility of people. Therefore, predicting freight travel demand can help predict traffic flows on specific routes and prepare for the future development of relevant infrastructure. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of influencing variables on the production and attraction of construction freights. The O–D Matrix has been created by information roadside interviews. The influencing variables on the production and attraction of construction freight were modeled with the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method, Robust Inference, and the Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) by using aggregated data in the 325 traffic analysis zones. The adjusted R-Squared of the production model estimated by OLS, robust inference, and FGLS techniques, respectively, is 0.63, 0.63, and 0.66. The adjusted coefficient of determination of the attraction model is 0.51. The results show that use of location-representative variables increase the descriptive power of construction freight production and attraction models.

Natural fibers have garnered considerable attention from researchers and academics alike due to their eco-friendly nature and sustainability. These fibers are being explored for their potential use in polymer composites. The use of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composite materials is rapidly increasing in both industrial and fundamental research applications due to their renewable, low, and biodegradable properties. In order to reduce the CO2 emissions, the building energy consumption and preserve the natural sand. The present study involved conducting an analysis of the results obtained from the experimental investigation where five mixtures of typha fiber sand, and cement (MHC0, MHC5, MHC10, MHC15 and MHC20)) were utilized to make Typha-concrete. The experimental mixtures being examined and the results indicate that the density of the samples diminishes in proportion to the incorporation of typha fiber, while the thermal conductivity is enhanced. In addition, the characteristics of lightweight structures can be attributed to the generated specimens, which have been determined by their documented compressive strength. Based on the results of RILEM's functional classification analysis, it can be concluded that Typha-concrete meets the mechanical and thermal requirements of construction materials, making it a feasible option for both structural and insulating concrete applications.

Mediterranean basin exposed to ongoing processes of erosion and deformation. Neotectonics is the study of the geological processes involved in the deformation of the Earth’s crust. The topography of the terrain is greatly impacted by these neotectonic events, which has a considerable impact on the drainage pattern and general geomorphology of the region. In this work, the active tectonics were evaluated using the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and several Geomorphic Indices in the Ain Zerga region of Northeast Algeria. Asymmetry factor, basin form, the ratio of valley floor width to valley height, the sinuosity of mountain fronts, hypsometric integral, hypsometric curve, and transverse topographic symmetry factor were some of the indices used. These findings emphasize the tremendous tectonic activity that exists in the study area. In comparison to sub-watershed N°2, sub-watersheds N°1, N°3, and N°4 had stronger tectonic activity, according to the examination of these geomorphic indicators. The Relative Tectonic Activity Index (Iat) distribution pattern, which concurred with other pieces of information such as stream deflection and lineament analysis, corroborated these conclusions. We were able to learn a lot about the different levels of tectonic activity in the sub-watersheds by using traditional geomorphic indices. The tectonic activity-exhibiting basins consistently displayed connections with structural disturbances, basin geometry, and field research. Geomorphic indices and morphometric characteristics were used to identify tectonically active zones in a portion of the Mellegue transboundary basin, which shows a considerable influence of neotectonic activity in a portion of the Neogene basin.

In the present study, a trigonometric shear deformation plate theory was employed to perform a thermal buckling analysis of multi-directional functionally graded (FG) plates. During the manufacturing of the multi-directional graded plate, the formation of pores is abounded. Hence, the effect of porosity on the buckling performance was investigated by considering the variation of porosity in the plate for power law gradation variation of material properties. The adverse effect of porosity on the material properties was taken into account by employing the rule of mixture relation. Finite element results show that the thermal expansion coefficient is unaffected by the presence of porosity. For simply supported boundary conditions, the non-linear governing equations are solved for different thermal loads such as uniform, linear, and non-linear. A parametric study was performed in which the effect of grading parameters, aspect ratio, and side-to-thickness ratio under variable temperature change was studies. Critical material grading indices for multi-directional plates have been identified that help researchers and industry personnel in fabrication planning.

In this article, a performance analysis of millimeter wave (mmWave) massive multiuser multiple-input and multiple-output (MU-MIMO) channel within an underground mine is performed. The analysis is based on channel measurements conducted at 28 GHz using a base station of 64 virtual antenna elements serving multiple users. Channel characteristics such as large-scale path loss, time dispersion, coherence bandwidth and sum-rate capacity are reported and evaluated. The results indicate that multislope path loss model is better suited for precise prediction of path loss across various propagation segments within the mining gallery. The time dispersion analysis reveals that the underground mine channel does not cause significant time dispersion, as 90% of the root-mean-square (rms) delay spreads are below 4 ns. In addition, it was found that the rms delay spread is not dependent on the propagation distance. The study on sum-rate capacity highlights the potential of employing massive MIMO technology to improve the channel’s spectral efficiency. The analysis reveals that the capacity, with eight active users, can reach up to 33.54 bit/s/Hz. The outcomes of this article offer valuable insights into the propagation properties of underground mine environment, which is characterized by rich-scattering and irregular topology.

Thin liquid films are a potential game changer in the quest for efficient gas separation strategies. Such fluid membranes, which are complementary to their solid counterparts involving porous materials, can achieve complex separation by combining permeability and adsorption mechanisms in their liquid core and at their surface. In addition, unlike porous solid membranes that must be regenerated between separation steps to recover a gas-free porosity, thus preventing continuous operation, liquid membranes can be regenerated using continuous liquid flow through the fluid film. Here, building on the self-sustained mobile film technique, we propose a simple experimental setup allowing direct quantitative assessment of the gas permeability of soap films stabilized by different surfactant types. Using a simple prototypical example involving O2/N2mixtures, the measurement principle is first presented to establish a proof of concept. As the gas solubilities and diffusivities are known, the results of such experiments can be compared with microscopic models to disentangle the liquid core and surface permeabilities from a direct macroscopic transport response of the film subjected to a gas concentration difference. The same dynamical experiments performed for air enriched in CO2indicate that the permeability of the soap film varies with the molar fraction in the gas compartment, a feature not observed for O2/N2. These experimental findings pave the way for the design of novel separation technologies in fields and situations where porous solid membranes are of limited efficiency.

Graphical Abstract:

The physicochemical properties of colloidal particles—such as size, surface properties, and morphology—play a crucial role in determining their behaviors and transit through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While some data exist for nonspherical nanomaterials (NMs) composed of silica or polystyrene, there is limited understanding of NMs composed of polysaccharides and polymers. This study explores the fate and GI tract residence time of hyaluronan-based NMs with distinctive hexagonal morphology and flat surfaces (nanoplatelets) following administration to rats. The behavior of these nanoplatelets was compared to NMs with spherical and ellipsoidal morphologies. The three types of NMs were labeled with a near-infrared dye (Cy5.5) and administered in single doses to healthy rats, followed by real-time in vivoimaging over 24 hours. The results revealed that altering NM morphology from spherical to ellipsoidal did not significantly affect GI tract residence time or toxicity profiles in vitroand in vivo. However, nanoplatelets exhibited a stronger Cy5.5 fluorescence signal in the abdominal region and demonstrated slower gastric emptying than spherical and ellipsoidal NMs. Ex vivoanalysis of excised GI tracts rinsed with saline indicated that nanoplatelets adhered more effectively to the tightly bound mucus layer. Furthermore, histological examination of colon sections showed that nanoplatelets induced a minimal global inflammation score comparable to that of healthy rats. This study underscores the potential of hyaluronan-based nanoplatelets for oral administration, offering promising directions for both fundamental research and practical applications in nanomedicine.

This study explores the interactions between geological, hydrogeological, and human influences on groundwater quality and vulnerability within the Hennaya aquifer in Northern Algeria. Located in the Tafna watershed, this 24 km2area is characterized by a semi-arid climate with cold winters, receiving an average annual precipitation of 477.7 mm and actual evapotranspiration of 422.7 mm. The region experiences distinct hydrological seasons, with flooding from November to May and low water levels from June to October. The aquifer geological features include Tortonian sandstone, conglomerates, travertines, gravel, and clay, underlain by Helvetian marls. Piezometric data reveal a groundwater flow from southwest to northeast, with springs emerging in conglomerate-rich zones. The hydraulic gradient and transmissivity vary, with conglomerates showing higher values than sandstone. Groundwater samples were collected during both wet and dry seasons, and analyzed for physical and chemical parameters, including pH, EC, TDS, major ions, and nitrates. The hydrogeochemical analysis indicates alkaline-earthy water with a chloride-calcium facies. Rock weathering is the dominant geochemical process, with under-saturation in carbonate and evaporitic minerals. Chloro-alkaline indices and base exchange patterns suggest direct cation exchange, classifying the groundwater as Na-SO4type from shallow meteoric sources. High nitrate levels, linked to agricultural activities, reflect shallow water table depths and anthropogenic impacts. The SINTACS vulnerability assessment identifies medium to high vulnerability zones, with nitrate concentrations correlating with vulnerability indices, highlighting the significant role of land use in groundwater contamination.

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Understanding erosion patterns and drainage conditions is crucial for optimizing agricultural productivity and for addressing the challenges of wastewater treatment. To achieve this, we employed a comprehensive approach, combining the morphometric method with weighted sum and Geospatial techniques. Utilizing a 30-m-wide Digital Elevation Model (DEM), specifically the Aster DEM, and leveraging ArcGIS software, we meticulously delineated drainage systems and watershed boundaries. Through the application of standard formulas, we calculated areal, linear, and relief parameters to effectively rank and prioritize the sub-watersheds. Our examination led to the calculation of a composite factor, determined through an assessment of 18 morphometric criteria employing a weighted summation approach for each subcatchment. The outcomes of our research unveiled a wide range of compound factor values, spanning from − 0.128 to 9.28. This study underscores the pivotal role of the minimal compound factor value in determining the sustainability of sub-watersheds. As a practical illustration, we found that Basin 3 exhibited superior sustainability when compared to Basin 4, primarily attributable to soil erosion issues in the latter. Sub-watersheds were additionally grouped into classes according to their composite factor values, commonly characterized as highly favorable, favorable, intermediate, or unfavorable, providing insights into their vulnerability to erosion. Moreover, our research pinpointed Basin 4 and Basin 7 as highly vulner able to soil erosion, with a combined area of 294.9 km2. The implications for wastewater treatment are significant in these areas, as proper water and soil conservation techniques are imperative not only for the sustainable management of these lands but also for mitigating the environmental impact of the wastewater treatment process.

Zusammenfassung: Osteoporose und Osteomalazie sind systemische metabolische Knochenerkrankungen, welche die Zusammensetzung, Architektur und Funktion des Knochens beeinträchtigen. Aufgrund der demografischen Entwicklung und sensitiver Nachweisverfahren werden beide Erkrankungen zunehmend häufiger diagnostiziert. Insbesondere ältere und chronisch kranke Menschen oder Bewohner in Seniorenresidenzen sind betroffen. Patienten mit gastroenterologischen, rheumatologischen und endokrinologischen Grunderkrankungen weisen ebenfalls ein hohes Risiko einer Osteoporose oder Osteomalazie auf. In dieser aktuellen Übersicht werden die praktischen Aspekte zur Klinik und Diagnostik der Osteoporose und der Osteomalazie dargestellt.

The effect of adding organized supramolecular systems such as β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) on the photochemically-induced fluorescence (PIF) spectral properties of tau-fluvalinate (TFV) in aqueous solutions was examined. The influence of pH, UV irradiation time and photoproduct stability on the cyclodextrin-enhanced photochemically-induced fluorescence intensity was also investigated. The spectral changes associated with the inclusion process yielded values for the formation constants of TFV inclusion complexes between 450 and 640 M−1, which were calculated using the nonlinear iterative regression approach least squares. In addition, host–guest interaction was clearly determined by PIF enhancement and a 1 : 1 stoichiometry was found for the β-CD and HP-β-CD complexes formed with TFV. The negative free energy (ΔG°) value indicated that the reaction of TFV with cyclodextrins was thermodynamically favorable. Furthermore, the structures of inclusion complexes of TFV with cyclodextrins were elucidated by 3-21G ab initiocalculations. The limits of detection and quantification obtained ranged between 1.3 and 4.0 ng mL−1and from 4.4 to 13.0 ng mL−1in β-CD and HP-β-CD media, respectively. The analytical application in tap and river water samples yielded satisfactory mean recoveries ranging from 98.12 to 102.97%. Due to its sensitivity and ease of use, this method can be reliably applied to routine analysis.

Tectonics is the scientific discipline concerned with the investigation of rock deformation within the Earth's crust and the forces that instigate such deformation. The comprehension of tectonic activity within a particular geographical area stands as an indispensable pursuit, as it serves to elucidate the intricate mechanisms responsible for the genesis of landforms and seismic behavior. The main objective of this study was to assess the relative tectonic activity (RTA) prevailing within the Meskiana basin, NE Algeria. This assessment was based on a multifaceted synthesis of geomorphic indices and morphometric parameters; characterizing landform features to infer tectonic influences. The methodology involved the utilization of various datasets, including the NASA Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission Digital Elevation Model (SRTM-DEM), geologic maps, satellite images, and fieldwork. GIS techniques and advanced geoprocessing tools were harnessed for the purpose of efficiently handling a diverse array of geographic data layers. The derived indices, namely the hypsometric index, asymmetry factor, transverse topographic symmetry, drainage basin shape index, stream length gradient index, valley floor width-to-height ratio, and mountain front sinuosity index, provide valuable information about the geological and tectonic processes at play in the Meskiana region. They give an understanding of the relative tectonic activity, landscape maturity, and deformation patterns, which is crucial for studying the Earth's dynamic processes and potential hazards like earthquakes and landslides. The analyses encompassed all 19 delineated sub-basins that collectively compose the Meskiana basin. By integrating the relative tectonic activity index (IAT) with the morphometric parameters, the study area was classified into four distinct classes. The results show IAT values of 1.71–2.42. These values represent the relative level of active tectonics in each basin. Basins with IAT values around 1.71–1.85 are classified as “high,” indicating a relatively high level of tectonic activity. Basins with IAT values around 2.00–2.42 are classified as “medium,” suggesting a moderate level of tectonic activity. The study emphasizes investigating morphotectonic features to enhance our understanding of tectonic activity in Neogene North African basins.

The concentrations of radioisotopes (238U, 234U, 235U, 210Po, 232Th, 40K, and 226Ra) in naturally occurring radionuclide materials were determined through gamma and alpha spectrometry. The average activities of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were matched with literature data from various countries. The radium equivalent value derived is 532.3 Bq kg−1, which exceeds the recommended limit of 370 Bq kg−1for building materials without restrictions by 43.86%. The mean absorbed dose rate is 245.3 nGy h−1, significantly superior than 57 nGy h−1reference value. The global annual effective dose, resulting from external radiation exposure and dust inhalation, is 0.3 mSv y−1, below the 1 mSv y−1limit approved by the International Commission on Radiological Protection for public exposure.

Objective and designThis study aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of a parent training programme for parents of children with neurological conditions and behaviours that challenge.SettingChild and adolescent mental health service within a specialist children’s hospital.ParticipantsParents of 31 children with neurological conditions and behaviours that challenge.InterventionsParents attended a 6-week evidence-based behavioural parenting programme delivered in a group format, either face-to-face or remote.Main outcome measuresFeasibility was determined by attendance rates. Effectiveness was analysed primarily using parent-reported measures of child behaviour (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Paediatric Quality of Life and Goal-Based Outcomes). Secondary measures of parental well-being were also reported (Brief Parental Self-Efficacy Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale Short Form and Parental Sense of Competence). Paired t-tests or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were conducted to analyse differences preintervention and postintervention.ResultsThe attendance rates for the face-to-face and remote groups were 80% and 79%, respectively. Medium to large effect sizes were reported for most measures of child behaviour and parental well-being. There were statistically significant improvements found postintervention in children’s behaviour (p=0.014), quality of life (p<0.001), goal-based outcomes (p<0.001), parental self-efficacy (p<0.001) and parental anxiety (p=0.030). Anecdotal feedback showed that parents indicated the group format was acceptable.ConclusionsThe group parenting intervention for parents of children with heterogeneous neurological conditions and behaviours that challenge appears feasible and effective in improving child behaviour and parental well-being.

Flash floods, known for their sudden onset and severe damages, present a major threat due to intense rainfall occurring within a brief period. This study focuses on the Tebessa Basin as a patt of the Atlas chain of eastern Algeria, and employs a comprehensive approach to morphologically characterize hydrographic units, aiming to assess flash flood risks and propose preventive measures. We implemented a prioritization and classification methodology for the basin’s hydrographic units using a weighted sum analysis (WSA) and morphometric modeling, utilizing 15 morphometric criteria. The modeling and determination of sub-basins and the drainage network relied on digital elevation model (DEM) data. Our analysis identified sixteen sub-basins within the main Tebessa Basin. Each sub-basin was categorized according to its priority level (very high, high, moderate, low, and poor) based on composite factors determined through the WSA. The results revealed a very high flash flood risk covering 6.55% of the Tebessa Basin (sub-basin 5), a high risk encompassing 35.33% (sub-basins 2, 4, 8, 11, and 12), and a moderate risk extending to 55.68% (sub-basins 1, 3, 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, and 16). In addition, there was a low flood risk (1.85%—sub-basin 13) and a poor flood risk (0.58%). Our study pinpointed sub-basin 5 as a focal point for major flash flood risk, indicating the necessity for targeted mitigation actions. These findings provide valuable insights for formulating effective strategies to alleviate the consequences of this natural hazard, contributing to the advancement of flash flood risk management in the Tebessa Basin.

Eine Hormonersatztherapie kann effektiv klimakterische Beschwerden lindern. Darüber hinaus hat sie Wirkungen, die sich positiv auf die Gesundheit auswirken, aber auch die Anwendung limitieren können. Unbestritten ist der positive Effekt auf die Knochenstruktur mit der Folge einer substanziellen Senkung der Frakturraten. Bezüglich hormonabhängiger Tumoren sind die Effekte gering und gegensätzlich, sodass eine Hormonersatztherapie nicht zur onkologischen Vorsorge geeignet ist. Das gilt auch für die Prävention der koronaren Herzkrankheit, zumal eine Erhöhung des Thrombose- und Schlaganfallrisikos nur durch transdermale Applikation vermieden werden kann. Dadurch werden wiederum günstige Wirkungen auf das Lipidprofil und den Glukosestoffwechsel mitigiert, die zusammen mit einem individuell unterschiedlichen Effekt auf den Blutdruck nach jeweiliger Veranlagung positiv genutzt werden können.

Geochemical studies of major and trace elements were conducted on Miocene sediments from three sections of the Lower Chelif Basin, Northern Algeria. Geochemical proxy records demonstrate that the Lower Chelif Basin has experienced weak to moderate weathering and the Index of Compositional Variability (ICV) values suggest that these sediments were, in general, enriched in rocks forming minerals. Al2O3versus(vs.) K2O diagrams indicate that, in Miocene sediments, the minerals containing Al2O3and K2O are primarily illite; likely derived from K-feldspar decomposition. The application of the Al2O3vsTiO2binary plot, as a provenance indicator, indicates that all the samples fall along the basalt + rhyolite/granite line indicating that the sediments derived from mixed source sediments the composition of which ranges from mafic and felsic rocks. Compared to Upper Continental Crust (UCC) composition, Miocene sediments depict strong depletion in SiO2, Al2O3, MnO, Na2O, K2O, Zr and Sr during the weathering process as well as an enrichment in Cr and Cu. Calculated percentage variation plotted against the Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) diagrams provides a basis for assessing the chemical mobility during weathering in the Chelif Basin. For the study stratigraphical range, Si, Al, Mn, Na and K show depletion in relation to Ti. Sodium decreases more rapidly than K, suggesting a Na-plagioclase alteration higher than that of K-feldspar. During the Tortonian, the chemical motilities of Rb and K are tightly correlated (r = 0.72), but the former decreases lesser. Calculated values of C-proxy suggest a roughly semi-arid to semi-moist climate during the Burdigalian-Langhian, arid to semi-arid during the Tortonian and more humid conditions during the Messinian. Sr/Ba ratio ranging from 0.44 to 6.48 indicates a palaeoenvironment with variable salinity during the Miocene.

The focus of this work is the effect of heat treatment temperature upon the microstructure, hardness, wear and friction of high manganese steel produced in an industrial setting. The obtained steels were subjected to two heat treatments, one at 1050 °C and the other at 1100 °C followed by water quenching. The microstructures were characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy-dispersive spectrometer. Rockwell C hardness and Vickers microhardness were also measured. Wear behavior in dry conditions was investigated under a load of 300 N using pin-on-disk method. Tribological behavior in boundary lubricated conditions under a load of 60 N at high temperature (100 °C) was studied using a custom-made reciprocating tribometer by measuring the mass loss and the friction coefficient. A 5W-40 engine oil was used as lubricant. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis and roughness 2D and 3D of the tested samples were measured. The obtained results showed that in the as-cast state, the added elements favored the formation of simple or complex inter- and intragranular carbides. In the heat-treated state, the microstructure of the examined steels consists of retained austenite, martensite and precipitates. Increasing of heat treatment temperature increases the rate of the formed martensite. Formation of secondary carbides and increasing of martensite amount led to the improvement of hardness and wear resistance.

Anopheles gambiaeand Anopheles coluzzii, often found in sympatry and synchronous, have undergone a premating reproductive isolation across their distribution range. However, in the Western coast of Africa, unexpected hybridization zones have been observed, and little is known about swarming behavior of these cryptic taxa. Here, we characterized the swarming behavior of An. coluzziiand An. gambiaeto investigate its role in the high hybridization level in Senegal. The study was conducted in the south and central Senegal during the 2018 rainy season. Mating swarms of malaria vectors were surveyed at sunset and collected using an insect net. Meanwhile, indoor resting populations of malaria vectors were collected by pyrethrum spray catches. Upon collection, specimens were identified morphologically, and then members of the An. gambiaecomplex were identified at the species level by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An. gambiaeswarmed mainly over bare ground, whereas An. coluzziiwere found swarming above various objects creating a dark–light contrast with the bare ground. The swarms height varied from 0.5 to 2.5 m. Swarming starting time was correlated with sunset whatever the months for both species, and generally lasted about 10 min. No mixed swarm of An. gambiaeand An. coluzziiwas found even in the high hybridization area. These results indicated a premating isolation between An. coluzziiand An. gambiae.However, the high hybridization rate in the sympatric area suggests that heterogamous mating is occurring, thus stressing the need for further extensive studies.

The microstructure and wear behavior of a manganese and niobium alloyed high chromium cast iron were examined and compared to an as-cast chromium cast iron. Three heat treatments were applied: quenching at 930, 980 and 1030 °C followed by tempering at 250 °C. The microstructures were characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer. The Vickers microhardness (HV) were measured. X-ray diffraction tests were carried out in order to identify the nature of the existing crystallographic phases in each studied sample. The tribological behavior was studied in the dry state under a load of 10 N at room temperature. The friction coefficient was recorded. The wear mechanism of the investigated is observed by optical microscopy. The obtained results show that the as-cast microstructure of the studied chromium cast iron samples consists of an austenitic matrix and a complex eutectic carbide network of M7C3type. The applied heat treatments have affected the microstructure and have promoted the formation of martensite, retained austenite and secondary precipitations. The addition of niobium and manganese also shows a refinement on the microstructure, this effect is observed on the dimensions of the dendrites which appear finer in the chromium cast iron alloyed with Mn and Nb.

Maternal infections during pregnancy have been linked to increased risk of adverse birth outcomes, including low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth (PTB), small for gestational age (SGA), and stillbirth (SB).

Low birth weight (LBW) is associated with neonatal mortality and sequelae of lifelong health problems; prioritizing the most promising antenatal interventions may guide resource allocation and improve health outcomes.

Biopolymers obtained from renewable resources became the center of public interest by virtue of their environmental and commercial advantages. Natural polymers such as starch, almond gum, chitosan and arabic gum were investigated to get fully or partially biodegradable dielectric material. Thus, in this article we study the material properties of cashew gum. This biopolymer is an exudate collected from occidental anacardium tree. For this investigation, scanning electron microscopy of powder and thin film cashew gum showed homogenous and slightly rough surface morphology with visible wrinkles. The thermal analyses such as thermogravimetric (TGA) and differential scanning calorimeter were realized. thermogravimetric thermogram shows two distinct stages of decomposition. The first around 150°C is attributed to moisture evaporation with loss in weight of 9.7%. The second transition, between 255°C and 330°C, is related to the decomposition of cashew gum with loss in weight of 50%. UV-visible spectra of the cashew gum thin film show a low absorbance and high transmittance. For this material, we obtained a direct optical band gap around 4.56 eV. In addition, the dielectric and electrical characterizations lead to conclude that cashew gum may be interesting for transistor applications as a gate dielectric.

Radiological hazards from external exposure of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) scales residues, generated during the extraction process of oil and gas production in southern Algeria,are evaluated. The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were measured using high-purity gamma-ray spectrometry (GeHP). Mean activity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, found in scale samples are 4082 ± 41, 1060 ± 38 and 568 ± 36 Bq kg−1, respectively. Radiological hazard parameters, such as radium equivalent (Raeq), external and internal hazard indices (Hex, Hin), and gamma index (Iγ) are also evaluated. All hazard parameter values were greater than the permissible and recommended limits and the average annual effective dose value exceeded the dose constraint (0.3 mSv y−1). However, for occasionally exposed workers, the dose rate of 0.65 ± 0.02 mSv y−1is lower than recommended limit of 1 mSv y−1for public.

In various industrial fields, where the material wear is a prevalent stress, the microstructure of wear-resistant materials plays a very important role. The operational behavior of these materials differs depending on whether the microstructure consists of an austenitic or martensitic matrix. Moreover, the type, shape, and morphology of the secondary carbides produced by the heat treatment have a significant effect on the wear resistance of the material. This work investigates the effect of manganese and molybdenum on the microstructure type, the secondary precipitation, the thermal behavior, the microhardness, and the wear resistance of high chromium cast iron balls, used for raw material grinding. Basic and alloyed cast iron samples were processed in an induction furnace and characterized by spectroscopic, optical, and SEM microscopy, XRD, and DSC techniques. The secondary precipitation grain surface was measured using the ImageJ software. Microhardness and wear tests were considered to check the sample abrasion and friction resistance. The obtained results show the effect of manganese and molybdenum on the microstructural and wear properties of the cast iron. Compared to the basic cast iron, the addition of 3% of manganese favorably affects the secondary precipitation by inducing dense precipitation of carbides with polygonal morphology. On the other hand, the effect of the addition of manganese and molybdenum was reduced by a factor of six, resulting in a lower proportion of secondary carbides but better wear properties. The recorded thermograms show that molybdenum shifts the eutectic transition peak to higher temperatures compared to the manganese effect.

In mountainous regions globally, landslides pose severe threats to both human lives and infrastructure, with the Mediterranean region, in particular, being highly susceptible to these destructive events that result in substantial damage to settlements and infrastructure. In this study, we employ a GIS-based approach to comprehensively characterize terrain instabilities along the Algerian-Tunisian border, recognizing the critical need for effective land planning and disaster mitigation strategies in this context. Our methodology integrates geological, geophysical, and geotechnical reconnaissance techniques and multi-criteria analysis, with a particular focus on geotechnical parameters. Our findings reveal significant slope instability within the study area; it is particularly concentrated in the mid-altitude slopes of the eastern basin, with high and very high susceptibility zones covering 20.89% of the study area. Validation of our model through ROC analysis demonstrates its high accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.92. Crucially, slope gradients and precipitation emerge as key contributors to landslide occurrence, alongside Triassic lithofacies, which is a significant geological factor influencing susceptibility. These results emphasize the necessity of identifying high-landslide-susceptibility regions for sustainable land management and risk reduction, which will ultimately enhance the resilience of the studied region and mitigate the associated natural hazard risks.

Polyaniline (PANI) was synthesized in HCl (1 M) and in the presence of two ionic liquids: 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMimBF4) and 1-hexyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium chloride ([HMMim][Cl]). The resulting polymers (PANI and PANI doped by ionic liquids) were associated to polyvinyl alcohol to prepare cation-exchange membranes. The membranes were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetry analysis. After characterization, the membranes were applied to the elimination of heavy metals (copper, lead, and cadmium) in aqueous solutions via electrodialysis. The results showed extraction percentages comprised between 80.63 and 96.04 % (for Cu2+), 87.89 and 99.55 % (for Pb2+), and 68.53 and 88.03 % (for Cd2+).

This paper focuses on new efficient and adaptive optimization algorithms to cope with the maintenance grouping problem for series, parallel, and complex systems. We propose a Particle Swarm Optimization approach to cope with small and medium problem sizes, and that will be used to benchmark existing heuristic solutions such as Genetic Algorithms. To address scalability and adaptability issues, we propose a new dynamic optimization algorithm based on a clustering technique. This clustering-based solution is formulated using an Integer Linear Programing approach to guarantee the convergence to global optimal solutions of the considered problem. We show the performance of the proposed approaches with a clear advantage to the clustering-based algorithm that we recommend for large industrial systems.