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Domesticated horses are often housed in individual stables for long periods where physical contact with conspecifics is not possible. Although common, this form of stable design is known to be detrimental to horse welfare. This study investigated the impact of short-term stabling (1-hour bouts) on behavioral expression using three stable conditions: a full wall, a barred window wall, and a half wall between paired horses in a within-subjects design study (N = 18). A mixed model (restricted maximum likelihood) was used to account for both stable condition and individual horse within the model. Behaviors influenced by stable design were those relating to vigilance and social affiliation. Horses spent a greater proportion of the observation time standing alert when in the full wall stable compared to the half wall stable (P = 0.009). The opposite is true of time spent standing and resting (P < 0.001). Compared to the window wall alone, horses in the half wall stable performed significantly more contact-seeking behaviors (P = 0.021). Horse owners often perceive stable design unimportant if only used for short periods of time, with the majority of their time budget spent at pasture with conspecifics. These results indicate that, even during short bouts of stabling, horses were more relaxed when stable design allowed them to engage in social behaviors with conspecifics and more vigilant when stable design left them physically isolated from conspecifics. [Display omitted] • Vigilance behavior in horses is influenced by stable design even when stabling duration is short. • Horses expressed more alert behaviors when isolated from conspecifics. • In contrast they performed more affiliative and relaxation behaviors when contact was possible. • Horses chose to actively engage in social behaviors when physical contact was possible in a stable. • This was despite being at pasture together for the other 23hrs of the day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work is to investigate the multi-dimensional Black-Scholes partial differential equation with variable coefficients numerically. The problem is of practical importance due to option pricing at the presence of multi assets. Since by increasing the dimension, the curse of dimensionality restricts the computations, the proposed solver will be constructed based on sparse arrays. Toward this goal, fourth-order finite difference approximations on graded meshes are introduced and then employed through semi-discretization. Then a sixth-order Runge-Kutta solver is employed for finding the resolution of the derived set of ordinary differential equations. The stability of the proposed scheme is furnished in detail as well. Numerical testings are given to uphold the accuracy and efficacy of the proposed procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study an optimally accurate second-order time-stepping algorithm for nonstationary magneto-hydrodynamics equations. The algorithm deals with a linear treatment for the nonlinear terms in both momentum equations and magnetic equations, and adds some stabilization terms of the discrete solutions for the velocity, the pressure and the magnetic. We derive that this algorithm satisfies unconditionally stable and optimally accurate error estimate. Numerical tests are given to validate the predicted convergence rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate the effect of dispersal and advection on the dynamics of a specialist predator–prey model. More precisely, we show that the linear stability of the semi-trivial steady state is determined by the dispersal rate, the mortality rate of the predator and the advection rate. We point out that compared to homogeneous intrinsic growth rate and carrying capacity, the case in this paper is more complicated. This work gives a investigation to an open problem proposed by Nie et al. in Nie et al. (2020) by considering a more general model, and then, can be seen as a further development of their work (Nie et al., 2020). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The superior opto-electronic properties of metal halide perovskites have uncovered great potential as light harvesters for thin-film photovoltaics, capturing the dominant research trend for over a decade now. While Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs) depict promising results of a successful photovoltaic technology, further replacement of conventional charge transporting layers (CTLs) with inorganic counterparts can impart sustainable device stability and cost-effectiveness. Here, we represent a theoretical study aimed to analyse the performance of Formamidinium Lead Iodide (FAPI) based PSCs using SCAPS-1D simulation tool (version 3.3.09). The solar cell is designed into a novel, and cost-effective inverted p-i-n architecture comprising of inorganic transporting layers. The introduction of a thin CuI buffer layer accompanied with the hole transporting layer (HTL) was found to boost the device performance greatly. Furthermore, a systematic analysis of the device parameters was carried out based on crucial factors like thickness of the absorber, CTLs, and buffer layer, interfacial defect densities (N it), series resistances (R S) and working temperature (T). In addition to this, we also conducted a study on the combined effect of absorber defect density (N t) and thickness on our simulated PSC. Our optimized device configuration ITO/CuI/Cu 2 O/FAPI/ZnO/Al, resulted in an ideal device efficiency of ≈ 26% and a reasonably high efficiency of 21.58% adopting a more realistic approach. This study therefore focuses on an economical architectural design strategy with an emphasis on device efficiency, and its long-term sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing highly active and robust transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) electrocatalysts toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) remains a challenge. Herein, we report an electron redistribution mechanism that involves the metal-sulfur (M-S) bond stabilization triggered by electron transfer from Ce to Ni and Co in CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 heterostructure, thereby effectively inhibiting the leaching of sulfur from CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 during the OER process. Moreover, the well-modulated heterogeneous interface enables optimal adsorption affinity for oxygen intermediates and reduces the energy barrier of OER. As a result, CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 exhibits superior OER activity with ultralow overpotentials of 146 and 271 mV at 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively. More importantly, CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 possesses excellent durability for over 200 h at 500 mA cm−2, surpassing individual NiCo 2 S 4 and most of the reported TMCs-based electrocatalysts. This work provides new insights for achieving good compatibility of TMCs-based OER electrocatalysts in terms of high activity and stability. [Display omitted] A well-modulated CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 heterostructure was successfully constructed. The electron redistribution induced by CeO 2 not only enhanced the formation energy of S vacancies and hindered the reconstruction of NiCo 2 S 4 but also reduced the energy barrier of the OER, ultimately resulting in the CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 catalyst exhibiting excellent activity and stability during the OER process. • CeO 2 /NiCo 2 S 4 achieves with an ultralow overpotential of 146 mV at 10 mA cm−2. • NiCo 2 S 4 extracts electrons from CeO 2 and optimizes interfacial electronic structure. • The introduced CeO 2 reduces the rate-determining step barrier of OER. • The introduction of CeO 2 enhances the formation energy of S vacancy in NiCo 2 S 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, stable and non-defective multilayer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite pervaporation mixed matrix membranes incorporated with in-situ transformed metal organic frameworks was successfully synthesized via ligand vapor phase infiltration and spin-coating. Metal zinc sources were uniformly distributed in PDMS which were in-situ transformed into homogeneous zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles, effectively alleviating the aggregation of ZIF-8. Thermal cross-linking of PDMS and the formation of MOFs occurred simultaneously, omitting the complicated preparation and re-dispersion steps of MOF nanoparticles. MOF nanoparticles and PDMS formed a more stabilized composite structure by in-situ transformation, in which PDMS and metal of MOFs can interact with the - Si - O - of silane coupling groups on membrane surface to construct solid multilayer composite membrane, ensuring long-term stability. Moreover, with the aid of hydrophobic interlayer, polymer infiltration into channels of substrate was restricted and casting solution spread out smoothly, facilitating the formation of defect-free PDMS selective layer. Various techniques including Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscope and X-ray Diffraction were applied to explore the morphology, composition and structure of nanoparticles and membranes, and pervaporation tests were taken to investigate the behavior of hydrophobic polymer-based multilayer membranes. For the recovery of low concentration n-butanol, the prepared non-defective multilayer TAO/ZIF-8/K-PDMS composite membrane displayed excellently total permeate flux of 2890 g m−2 h−1 with competitive separation factor of 40.3. [Display omitted] • Non-defective multilayer PDMS/MOF composite membrane was successfully synthesized. • Aggregation of MOFs in PDMS layer was greatly alleviated by in-situ transformation. • Thermal cross-linking of PDMS and formation of MOFs occurred simultaneously. • MOFs and PDMS formed more stabilized composite structure to ensure long-term stability. • TAO/ZIF-8/K-PDMS membrane presented excellent performance for butanol recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural change of a spiropyran (1,3,3-trimethylindolino-8′-methoxybenzopyrylospiran (MBPS)) to ring-opened forms, such as merocyanine and protonated merocyanine, is spontaneously induced in the confined space of a nanoporous silicas. In general, the ring closing of MBPS occurs easily in liquid media under blue-light illumination or under basic conditions. However, the ring-opened forms are tightly fixed and stable in the nanopores of diameters similar of the molecules owing to the hydrogen-bonding with silanol groups and the strong steric-restriction. The color of the ring-opened forms in the confined space varies with the protonation; therefore, the MBPS trapped in the nanoporous silica with open pores is sensitive to the pH of the surrounding solution. [Display omitted] • 1,3,3-trimethylindolino-8'-methoxybenzopyrylospiran (MBPS) is ring-opening in the confined space of nanoporous silicas. • The ring-opening MBPS is tightly fixed and stable in the nanopores of diameters similar of the molecules (around 1 nm). • The MBPS trapped in the nanoporous silica with open pores is sensitive to the pH of the surrounding solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decentralized finance (DeFi) lending has grown from nonexistent in 2017 to nearly $45 billion in total value locked across the three largest protocols in December 2021 before falling to roughly $15 billion in July 2023. The platforms use cryptocurrencies as collateral, matching speculative margin traders with yield-seeking depositors. Depositors receive claims guaranteed by a basket of collateral. We develop a framework that requires only knowledge of total deposits and borrowings to measure the total protocol risk to lenders and borrowers. Using data from major protocols, the risk measures show that system fragility increased beyond reasonable levels around mid-2021, and we identify time periods exposing lenders to a potential collateral loss conditional on continuing extreme fluctuations in coin prices. Moreover, our results indicate that the liquidation process, a risk mitigation strategy, is not timely and is less effective when risk levels are high. Overall, the model provides two easily implementable aggregate risk metrics that capture the perspectives of synthetic investors and provide early warning signals as the industry moves from collateral-guaranteed deposits to fiat money. • Two risk measures capture the risk of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) platforms. • The measures are easily implementable with aggregate data. • System fragility increased beyond reasonable levels mid-2021. • The measures reveal that liquidations are only partially effective as risk mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the stability issue of switched continuous-time linear systems composed of stable and unstable subsystems. By using a class of homogeneous polynomial Lyapunov functions, sufficient stability criterion ensuring the globally asymptotic stability of the considered systems under dwell-time constraint. An example is provided to illustrate the theoretical results in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome after nondisplaced and stable Lisfranc injuries.Methods: 26 patients with injuries to the Lisfranc joint complex detected on CT scans, but without displacement were tested to be stable using a fluoroscopic stress test. The patients were immobilized in a non-weightbearing short leg cast for 6 weeks. The final follow-up was 55 (IQR 53-60) months after injury.Results: All the Lisfranc injuries were confirmed to be stable on follow-up weightbearing radiographs at a minimum of 3 months after injury. Median American Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score at 1-year follow-up was 89 (IQR 84-97) and at final follow-up 100 (IQR 90-100); The AOFAS score continued to improve after 1-year (P=.005). The median visual analog scale (VAS) for pain was 0 (IQR 0-0) at the final follow-up. One patient had radiological signs of osteoarthritis at 1-year follow-up.Conclusion: Stable Lisfranc injuries treated nonoperatively had an excellent outcome in this study with a median follow-up of 55 months. The AOFAS score continued to improve after 1 year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we establish some connections between partial metric spaces and domain theory, and give a characterization of stable partially metrizable d-spaces. First, the concept of S-partial metrics on posets is introduced. Then it is demonstrated that the open ball topology is coarser than the Scott topology in an S-partial metric space, and that the partially metrizable d -space is exactly the DS-partial metric space. In addition, some conditions are provided to ensure that the open-ball topology and the Scott topology coincide in an S-partial metric space. Moreover, we prove that, for an S-partial metric space (X , ≤ , p) , (X , O p (X)) is sober iff the set of all limit points of every self-convergent sequence is directed. Finally, we propose the notion of DS-valuation space and obtain the result that there is a bijection between stable DS-partial metric spaces and DS-valuation spaces, thereby giving the characterization of stable partially metrizable d-spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A stable wearable piezoresistive sensor with a laminated pattern was designed. • The sensor simultaneously achieves effective pressure sensing and self-power supply. • The sensor combines both hardness and softness for reliable sensing properties. • The sensor retains superhydrophobicity even subjected to mechanical/chemical damage. Wearable piezoresistive sensors have great potential in motion monitoring, health detection, and virtual reality. However, such sensors have difficulty maintaining long-term and stable sensing performance in complicated conditions such as wetting, corrosion and without external power supply. Herein, we integrated a stable wearable piezoresistance sensor (SWPS) with sandwich-like laminated structure, which consists of a flexible superhydrophobic conductive material, a rigid superhydrophobic material, conductive coil and magnetic composite materials which is used to provide magnetic field. SWPS achieves simultaneously effective pressure sensing and self-power supply. Importantly, such sensor maintains outstanding superhydrophobicity even when exposed to mechanical or chemical damage, such as cyclic compression, impact and wetting erosion, ensuring the reliable and long-lasting sensing performance. Our design strategy could also guide the development of other wearable sensor materials that need to retain long-term sensing performance in harsh operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High-efficiency quasi-solid-state (QS) QDSCs devices were fabricated via synergistically combining the TiO 2 -sol interconnecting-modified photoanodes film with alginate hydrogel-assisted electrolytes. • TiO 2 -sol binding agents provided interconnecting channels between the neighboring TiO 2 NPs for accelerating charge transport in photoanodes, and the crosslinking QS-electrolytes enhancing ion transport and redox reaction of polysulfide couple. • The optimized QS-QDSCs devices obtained the champion PCE of 8.87%, with an enhancement of near 10% related to the devices based the pristine devices (8.01%). Moreover, the constructed QS-QDSCs devices exhibit good stability. Constructing the highly efficient and stable quasi-solid-state even solid-state devices is one of the most significant tendency in the field of quantum dots sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). Herein, highly efficient and stable quasi-solid-state (QS)-QDSCs devices were fabricated via synergistically combining the TiO 2 -sol interconnecting-modified photoanodes with alginate hydrogel (AH)-assisted electrolyte films. TiO 2 -sol binding agent could incorporate into the surface and voids of TiO 2 particles, which increased the surface area and roughness for QDs loading and induced better connection between the neighboring particles. Meanwhile, the AH-assisted QS-electrolyte films possessed the crosslinking hydrogel network structure and exhibited the perfect interfacial contact with the modified TiO 2 surface, thus enhancing the ion transport and redox reaction of polysulfide couple. Benefited from the synergistic effect of TiO 2 -sol modified photoanodes and alginate hydrogel (AH)-assisted electrolytes, a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.87% for model ZnCuInSe (ZCISe) based QS-QDSCs was achieved with an enhancement of near 10% related to that of the devices based the pristine devices (8.01%), and very close to that of liquid-junction QDSCs (9.06%). Moreover, the constructed QS-QDSCs devices exhibit the excellent stability. This work thus provides a facile and effective strategy to achieve the QS-QDSCs devices with both of high efficiency and good stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient non-noble metal catalysts are desirable to greatly improve the efficiency of anodic oxygen evolution and cathodic hydrogen evolution reactions. Herein, iron-nickel/carbon nanotube composites are synthesized as efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts for water splitting. The catalyst is homogeneously distributed, while the formation of iron-nickel alloy is confirmed. Because of the synergism of iron and copper and the contribution of carbon nanotubes, the Fe–Ni/CNT electrocatalyst shows excellent oxygen evolution reaction performance with the overpotential of 221 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and maintains stable at 0.48 V for 150 h. It expedites overall water splitting at 10 mA cm−2 with 1.50 V and show excellent stability at 20 mA cm−2 for 65 h, providing great potential for large-scale applications. • The FeNi/CNT are successfully fabricated by co-reduction. • The catalyst displays high activity and outstanding stability. • This confirm the synergism of Fe and Ni and the promotion of CNTs. • The exploration of carbon materials for potential electrocatalysis is stimulate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ideal implant for stable, noncomminuted olecranon fractures is controversial. Tension band wiring (TBW) is associated with lower cost but higher implant removal rates.On the other hand, plate fixation (PF) is purported to be biomechanically superior, with lower failure and implant removal rates, although associated with higher cost. The primary aim of this study is to look at the clinical outcomes for all Mayo 2A olecranon between PF and TBW. The secondary aim is to perform an economic evaluation of PF vs. TBW. This is a retrospective study of all surgically treated Mayo 2A olecranon fractures in a tertiary hospital from 2005-2016. Demographic data, medical history, range of motion, and complications were collected. All inpatient and outpatient costs in a 1-year period postsurgery including the index surgical procedure were collected via the hospital administrative cost database (normalized to 2014). A total of 147 cases were identified (94 TBW, 53 PF). PF was associated with higher mean age (P <.01), higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score (P <.01), and higher proportion of hypertensives (P =.04). There was no difference in the range of motion achieved at 1 year for both groups. In terms of complications, TBW was associated with more symptomatic hardware (21.6% vs. 13.7%, P =.24) and implant failures (16.5% vs. none, P <.01), whereas the plate group had a higher wound complication (5.9% vs. none, P =.02) and infection rate (9.8% vs. 3.1%, P =.09). TBW had a higher implant removal rate of 30.9% compared with 22.7% for PF (P =.36). PF had a higher cost at all time points, from the index surgery ($10,313.64 vs. $5896.36, P <.01), 1-year cost excluding index surgery ($5069.61 vs. $3850.46, P =.46), and outpatient cost ($1667.80 vs. $1613.49, P =.27). Based on our study results, we have demonstrated that TBW is the ideal implant for Mayo 2A olecranon fractures from both a clinical and economic standpoint, with comparable clinical results, potentially similar implant removal rates as PF's, and a lower cost over a 1-year period. In choosing the ideal implant, the surgeon must take into account, first, the local TBW and PF removal rate, which can vary significantly because of the patient's profile and beliefs, and second, the PF implant cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: High risk of mental health problems is associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study explored the prevalence of depressive symptoms (depression hereafter) and its relationship with quality of life (QOL) in clinically stable patients with COVID-19.Methods: This was an online survey conducted in COVID-19 patients across five designated isolation hospitals for COVID-19 in Hubei province, China. Depression and QOL were assessed with standardized instruments.Results: A total of 770 participants were included. The prevalence of depression was 43.1% (95%CI: 39.6%-46.6%). Binary logistic regression analysis found that having a family member infected with COVID-19 (OR=1.51, P = 0.01), suffering from severe COVID-19 infection (OR=1.67, P = 0.03), male gender (OR=0.53, P<0.01), and frequent social media use to obtain COVID-19 related information (OR=0.65, P<0.01) were independently associated with depression. Patients with depression had lower QOL than those without.Conclusion: Depression is highly prevalent in clinically stable patients with COVID-19. Regular screening and appropriate treatment of depression are urgently warranted for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets (BNNs) are gaining much attention owing to their extraordinary performance; however, difficulties remain in achieving their large-scale preparation and dispersion at high concentration in solvents. A facile yet efficient β-cyclodextrin-assisted mechanochemical exfoliation method is proposed to exfoliate and functionalize hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN). The β-cyclodextrin-assisted ball milling process gave a high yield of 60%, with the resultant BNNs being covalently grafted with hydroxyl, and well dispersed in water and other solvents. The concentration of the hydroxyl-functionalized boron nitride nanosheets (OH-BNNs) reached 3 mg/mL, and was stable for several weeks. Next, we fabricated a membrane based on the resulting OH-BNNs to effectively capture Congo red dye. This work not only offers an environmentally friendly, efficient, solvent-less and extremely cost-effective scalable production method, but also assists in our understanding of the mechanism of exfoliation and functionalization in other layered materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a spectrally positive strictly stable process with index in (1, 2), we obtain (i) the sub-probability density of its first exit time from an interval by hitting the interval's lower end before jumping over its upper end, and (ii) the joint distribution of the time, undershoot, and jump of the process when it makes the first exit the other way around. The density of the exit time is expressed in terms of the roots of a Mittag-Leffler function. Some theoretical applications of the results are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

À ce jour, aucun consensus n'existe concernant le suivi des patients coronariens stables asymptomatiques à risque d'événement intermédiaire. La majorité des événements cardiovasculaires (ECV) surviennent chez des patients asymptomatiques d'où l'intérêt pour le clinicien d'établir des scores permettant de stratifier le risque. Ainsi, l'évaluation du risque après un syndrome coronarien aigu (SCA) chez les patients asymptomatiques repose sur 3 types de score : clinique avec par exemple le score REACH ; angiographique avec le score SYNTAX résiduel ; scintigraphique et scores dérivés décrits dans la littérature. Ces scores sont très différents en termes de critères d'évaluation et de période d'analyse. Le but de notre étude est donc, chez des patients coronariens stables asymptomatiques après un SCA, de comparer ces différents scores prédictifs ; d'établir que la combinaison de ces scores permet d'optimiser l'évaluation du risque au cours du suivi. Notre étude rétrospective a inclus 236 patients revascularisés après un SCA. Le score SYNTAX résiduel, calculé au moment de la revascularisation, a été collecté. Trois à douze mois après l'évènement, les patients ont bénéficié d'une scintigraphie myocardique avec évaluation du score de risque scintigraphique décrit par l'équipe de Sharir, tenant compte de l'étendue de l'ischémie (SDS) et de la fraction d'éjection ventriculaire gauche (FEVG) poststress. Les patients présentant une FEVG < 50 % et/ou une atteinte ischémique modérée à sévère (SDS ≥ 2) ont été considérés à risque scintigraphique intermédiaire ou élevé. Enfin, le score clinique REACH a été calculé le jour de l'examen scintigraphique. Les ECV ont été évalués à un an de l'examen scintigraphique. Les données continues ont été analysées soit par le test t de Student, soit par le test non paramétrique de Mann-Whitney. Les données dichotomiques quant à elles ont été comparées soit par le test du χ2 soit par le test exact de Fisher. Après un an de suivi, 48 patients (20,1 %) ont présenté un ECV. Trente patients (13,8 %) présentaient un score SYNTAX résiduel élevé (≥ 8) et notre travail ne met en évidence aucune corrélation entre le score SYNTAX résiduel et les ECV sur la période de suivi (p = 0,359). Pour le score clinique REACH, 148 patients (57,7 %) présentaient un score élevé (≥ 11) et aucune relation n'est mise en évidence avec les ECV (p = 0,079). Par contre, 34 patients (14,4 %), présentaient un score scintigraphique intermédiaire ou élevé et ce dernier était corrélé à un plus grand nombre d'ECV (p < 0,001). L'analyse multivariée met en évidence 3 facteurs indépendants associés aux ECV : un score scintigraphique > 2 (OR [(95 % CI] : 5,530 [2,426–12,605] p < 0,001) ; la présence d'une artériopathie des membres inférieurs (AOMI) (OR [95 % CI] : 8,531 [2,540–28,660] p < 0,001) ; un diabète (OR [95 % CI] : 2,868[1,262–6,517], p = 0,012). L'association du score scintigraphique et de la présence de 2 facteurs cliniques que sont l'AOMI et le diabète apporte une valeur pronostique optimale dans l'évaluation du patient coronarien stable asymptomatique en post-SCA. Notre étude souligne donc l'intérêt d'optimiser les stratégies d'évaluation dans le cadre du suivi de ces patients qui reste à risque d'ECV en post-SCA. To date, there is no consensus regarding the follow-up of asymptomatic coronary patients with an intermediate risk of events. Indeed, most of cardiovascular events (CVE) occur in asymptomatic patients, hence the clinician's interest in establishing risk stratification scores. In asymptomatic patient, the risk assessment after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) can currently be based on 3 types of score: clinical with, for example, the REACH score; angiographic with the residual SYNTAX score; imaging with different scintigraphic scores. These scores differ widely in terms of evaluation criteria and period of analysis. The aim of our study was therefore, in stable and asymptomatic coronary patients after ACS, to compare these different predictive scores; to establish that the combination of these scores makes it possible to optimize the risk assessment during the follow-up. Our retrospective study included 236 revascularized patients after ACS. Three different risk scores were collected: 1) the residual SYNTAX score, calculated at the time of revascularization; 2) the scintigraphic risk score described by Sharir et al., performed 3 to 12 months after the event and taking into account the extent of ischemia (SDS) and the poststress left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Patients with LVEF < 50% and/or moderate to severe ischemic disease (SDS ≥ 2) were considered with an intermediate or high scintigraphic risk; 3) the REACH clinical score calculated on the day of the scintigraphic examination. After the myocardial scintigraphic exam, patients had a 1-year follow-up and CVE were recorded. Continuous data were analyzed either by Student's t-test or non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. The dichotomous data were compared either by the χ2 test or by Fisher's exact test. Forty-eight patients (20.1%) had a CVE during the 1-year follow-up. Thirty patients (13.8%) had a high residual SYNTAX score (≥ 8) without any correlation observed between the residual SYNTAX score and CVE (P = 0.359). 148 patients (57.7%) had a high REACH clinical score (≥ 11) with no significant correlation observed with CVE (P = 0.079). Lastly, 34 patients (14.4%) had an intermediate or high scintigraphic score, this imaging score being strongly correlated with a greater number of CVE (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed 3 independent factors associated with CVE: a scintigraphic score> 2 (OR [(95% CI): 5.530 [2.426–12.605] P < 0.001); Peripheral Arterial Obstructive Disease (PAOD) (OR [95% CI]: 8.531 [2.540–28.660] P < 0.001); diabetes (OR [95% CI]: 2.86 [1.262–6.517] P = 0,012). The combination of the scintigraphic score with two clinical factors, such as PAOD and diabetes, provides optimal prognostic value in the evaluation of asymptomatic and stable patients after ACS. Our study therefore highlights the importance of optimizing evaluation strategies in the follow-up of these patients who remain at risk of post-revascularization CVE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mir-22 improved luciferase expression 2.4-fold, while improvement by HIPK1 knockout was 4.7-fold. • Both HEK293 cell lines were able to be adapted to suspension growth conditions. • Although CRISPR/Cas9 knockout is more effective, it is time consuming and labor intensive. Stable cell lines can continuously produce a recombinant protein without the need to repeatedly engineer the genome. In a previous study HIPK1, Homeodomain-interacting Protein Kinase 1, was found to be a target of the microRNA miR-22 that, when repressed, improved expression of both an intracellular and a secreted protein. In this report, HEK293 cells stably over-expressing miR-22 were compared with HEK293 with knockout of HIPK1, executed by CRISPR/Cas9, for their ability to improve recombinant protein expression. In this model case of luciferase, over-expression of miR-22 improved overall activity 2.4-fold while the HIPK1 knockout improved overall activity 4.7-fold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halide perovskites, being a large family attained researchers focus for multiple targets because of their outstanding properties and flexible chemistry. In this study, density functional theory (DFT) based on WIEN2K code were utilized, to thoroughly explore the structural, electronic, optical, and mechanical properties of inorganic cubic halide perovskites, i.e.; RbSrM 3 (M = Cl, Br) for optoelectronic applications. Variation in the lattice parameters and unit cell volume were observed, as a result of halogen atom substitution from Cl with Br. Subsequently, the electronic characteristics certify the direct bandgap nature, with bandgap values of 7.73 eV for RbSrCl 3 and 6.79 eV for RbSrBr 3 , respectively. Optical properties proposed the high optical absorption, high conductivity, and low reflectivity. Further analysis into the mechanical properties, including bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (G), young modulus (E), anisotropic factor (A), Poison's ratio (ν) , and Pugh's ratio (B/G), comply the near ductility, stiffness, and elastically anisotropic behavior, confirmed the stability and reliability of the designed compound. Debye temperature (θ D), showing high capability to withstand against heat produced by lattice vibrations, further associated the thermodynamic stability that support the formation energy calculations. Based on the findings, it is confidently suggested that investigated halide perovskite materials i.e.; RbSrM 3 (M = Cl, Br), are promising candidates for next-generation photodetectors and optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, stable photoelectrochemical seawater desalination is a challenge. In this work, an environmentally friendly WO 3 /BiVO 4 photoanode is reported to achieve stable solar-driven redox desalination. The WO 3 /BiVO 4 photoanode was prepared by the hydrothermal method and drop-casting and the cathode is the activated carbon coated on graphite paper. Within the desalination system, the I−/I 3 − redox species are recycled between anode/cathode chambers. In the short-circuit state, with illumination as the driving force, the salt removal rate of 65.03 μg/(cm2·min) is obtained without the electric consumption. During the desalination process, the energy output process can be implemented with a salt removal rate of 29.8 μg/(cm2·min) with constant current discharge. Importantly, the solar desalination system based on WO 3 /BiVO 4 photoanode is quite stable. Within the five cycles, the variation of the salt removal rate is within 3.32 μg/(cm2·min). As the practical application, the seawater is desalted to the freshwater standard using the current system, in which the conductivity decreases to 0.96 mS/cm from 53 mS/cm. This work provides a feasible approach to developing stable and efficient solar-driven seawater desalination for long-term usage. The stable and efficient solar-driven redox seawater desalination based on an environmentally friendly WO 3 /BiVO 4 photoanode is achievable with the obtainment of freshwater product. [Display omitted] • The stable & environmentally friendly WO 3 /BiVO 4 is applied as photoanode. • Both high salt removal rate and energy output desalination can be achievable. • The seawater is desalted to the freshwater level. • The solar-driven desalination system has the excellent cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a prevalent and fatal cancer. Oral administration provided the potential for in situ treatment of the colorectal cancer. However, drugs couldn't be well-absorbed mainly due to its degradation in the gastric area and poor intestinal permeability. In this study, we synthesized deoxycholic acid and hydroxybutyl decorated chitosan nanoparticles (DAHBC NPs) as oral curcumin (CUR) delivery system for colorectal cancer treatment. DAHBC with lower critical solution temperature (LCST) below 37 °C (27–33 °C) was obtained. DAHBC NPs were correspondingly stable in simulated gastric conditions (pH 1.2, 37 °C), due to the offset of size change between pH-responsive expansion and thermo-responsive shrinkage. In simulated intestinal tract (pH 7.0–7.4, 37 °C), DAHBC NPs exhibited burst release of CUR owing to the onefold effect of thermo-responsive shrinkage. DAHBC27 NPs showed the minimum CUR leakage (~10%) in simulated gastric conditions, because a furthest temperature-sensitive shrinkage caused by the lowest LCST offset the expansion in acid environment. DAHBC27 NPs induced ~10-fold increased (P < 0.05) CUR absorption by paracellular transport pathway, compared to the free CUR. Thus, DAHBC NPs stabilized in the gastric environment may be a promising oral drugs delivery system for effective in situ colorectal cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A stable money demand function is essential when using monetary aggregate as a monetary policy. Thus, there is need to examine the stability of the money demand function in Nigeria after the deregulation of the financial sector. To achieve this, the study employed CUSUM (cumulative sum) and CUSUMSQ (CUSUM of square) tests after using autoregressive distributive lag bounds test to determine the existence of a long run relationship between monetary aggregates and their determinants. Results of the study show that a long-run relationship holds and that the demand for money is stable in Nigeria. In addition, the inflation rate is found to be a better proxy for an opportunity variable when compared to interest rate. The main implication of the study is that interest rate is ineffective as a monetary policy instrument in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the management practices that affect undesirable behaviors in American Quarter Horses (AQH) confined to box stalls. A total of 105 adult AQH, comprising 29 females, 22 intact males, and 54 castrated males, housed in box stalls for at least 30 days, were included in the study. Behavioral activities were recorded through visual inspection at 5-min intervals over a 24-h period by two observers who took turns in shifts of 4 hours. Parameters related to animal characteristics, stall conditions, handling, training, nutrients supplied, and feeding behaviors were considered independent variables, and the time spent in undesirable behaviors was the dependent variable. Data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis. Four principal components were extracted. Two clusters were identified based on the time spent in undesirable behaviors: low-incidence group (25 ± 13 minutes) and high-incidence group (97 ± 52 minutes). Nutritional status (P =.1447), physiological status (P =.1372), and training routine (P =.1160) had no significant effects on the dependent variable; however, the effect of feeding behavior (P =.0444) was significant. A low dry matter intake/requirement ratio (P =.0470) and a high heart rate at rest (P =.0444) indicated that inadequate nutrient supply is a determinant of the time spent in undesirable behaviors in AQH. Aspects related to management practices such as horse nutrition, feeding behaviors, and training routine should be considered to reduce undesirable behaviors in AQH. • Horses housed in box stalls may be subjected to different feeding practices. • Failures in handling and feeding in box stalls can lead to stress status in horses. • Stressful factors result in the manifestation of undesirable behaviors. • The lack of nutritional requirements supplies results in stress status in horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study a stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) with Hölder continuous coefficient driven by an α -stable colored noise. The pathwise uniqueness is proved by using a backward doubly stochastic differential equation backward (SDE) to take care of the Laplacian. The existence of solution is shown by considering the weak limit of a sequence of SDE system which is obtained by replacing the Laplacian operator in the SPDE by its discrete version. We also study an SDE system driven by Poisson random measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Herein, an effective method was developed to integrate carbon microwires on Ti mesh (denoted as CM/TiM) to fabricate high-performance anodes with long-time stability in microbial fuel cell. CM/TiM was synthesized by colonizing filamentous fungi on the bread modified Ti mesh followed by carbonization, which could convert the attached mycelium into carbon microwires (denoted as CM). Benefiting from the biocompatibility and 3D interlaced structure of carbon microwires, the biomass accumulation (1027 ± 83 μg cm−2) of CM/TiM have been significantly improved nearly 3 folds, thus the fabricated CM/TiM demonstrated 2-fold higher current density (12.19 ± 0.07 A m−2) with significantly increased stability compared with TiM. Therefore, the present high power output, chemical stability and hydrophilic carbon microwires make CM/TiM stable, scalable and environmentally sustainable anodes in bioelectrochemical systems. Graphical abstract The waste organic matters are chosen as sources for synthesis of sustainable and cost-effective microwires for biocompatible modification of up-scale bioelectrochemical systems. Covering the Ti mesh with intensive microwires allowed more biofilm to colonize the anodes and achieve stable and efficient power output. Unlabelled Image Highlights • A novel carbon microwire was synthesized by an ecologically sustainable way. • Carbon microwires improved biocompatibility and stability of the Ti mesh anode. • CM/TiM provides a scalable and stable anode for BESs. • New method was proposed to handle organic waste into valuable microwires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single phase Li x Fe 3-x O 4 (0.06 ≤ x ≤ 0.3) nanoparticles were synthesized using microwave refluxing technique and found to be spherical with the size in the range of ∼ 3–22 nm. The structure and the size were confirmed by X-ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscopy. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data of Li 0.3 Fe 2.7 O 4 sample indicate the oxidation states for Li-ions (+1) and Fe-ions (+2 and + 3). The sample Li 0.06 Fe 2.94 O 4 had superior magnetization value (∼54.1 Am2/kg) and it diminished with increasing Li content. The low coercivity values and the presence of a doublet in Mössbauer spectra advise the presence of both ferrimagnetic and superparamagnetic component. The ferrofluids of these samples show magnetic field dependent stabilization of temperature near 42 °C at the time of magnetic hyperthermia experiments. The specific absorption rate value (up to 100 W/g) found to be comparable with the literature values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract This study examines the stability of money demand in the proposed West African Monetary Union (WAMU). The study uses annual data for the period 1981 to 2015 from thirteen of the fifteen countries making-up the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). A standard money demand function is designed and estimated using a bounds testing approach to co-integration and error-correction modeling. The findings show divergence across ECOWAS member states in the stability of money demand. This divergence is informed by differences in cointegration, stability, short run and long term determinants, and error correction in event of a shock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) usually suffer from a strong recombination effect or low stability, resulting in a low efficiency and limiting their practical application. A facile liquid-phase synthesis of antimonene quantum dots (AMQDs) with unique morphology and size distribution is demonstrated, and applied as an effective photoactive material in QDSSCs for the first time. The intrinsic advantages of AMQDs, in association with a strong light–matter interaction, moderate energy band-gap in the visible range and antioxidation properties, enable an impressive photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) to be obtained, where the hysteresis-free AMQD-based solar cells can reach up to 3.07%. Furthermore, the as-fabricated solar cell shows a long-term stability, where the PCE value maintains to more than 90% of the initial value after 1000 h. In view of highly cost-effective synthesis and outstanding photoelectrochemical performance, we anticipate that AMQDs will have a promising future in solar cells and related photonics applications. AMQDs may provide a new direction for the rapidly developing photovoltaic technology, which is necessary for further developments in this field. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • Antimonene quantum dots (AMQDs) are synthesized by a facile liquid-phase process. • AMQDs are applied as photoactive material for QDSSCs. • The photoelectric conversion efficiency can reach up to 3.07%. • 90% of the initial value of PCE is maintained after 1000 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Here, a new promising perovskite structure of KMnF 3 has been fabricated and characterized, which yields bandgap of 1.6 eV with fascinating moisture-resistance and phase stability. Investigation of structural, optical, stability and transport properties have done by XRD, SEM, UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy, photoluminescence and electrical conductivity test. Such examination indicated the high carrier mobility (18 cm2/V s) and density (1014/cm3) even after a long interval between each excitation. These transport properties are comparable to that of the organic perovskite, indicating the importance of KMnF 3 for solar device applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conversion of biomass waste into valuable carbon composites as efficient non-precious metal oxygen-reduction electrocatalysts is attractive for the development of commercially viable fuel-cell and metal-air battery technologies. Herein, a highly active and robust Si-contained Fe/N/C catalyst is prepared based on the porous carbon deriving from waste reed stalk after carbonization and KOH corrosion. Reed waste is a natural, abundantly available, and yearly renewable source, acting as the single precursor for Si containing-carbon substrate. The typical product (Si-Fe20/N/C1_6 in this work) possesses a high BET specific surface area, porous structure with high pyridinic- N and pyrrolic- N content. The X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES), Raman, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements and electrochemical measurements show that Si facilitates incorporation of more N to coordinate with Fe in the porous carbon and induces more graphitic carbon in the catalyst. The sample Si-Fe20/N/C1_6 exhibits better activity and superior stability than the Fe20/N/C counterpart and commercial Pt/C catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte. The results suggest a promising route based on economical and sustainable biomass towards the development and engineering of value-added carbon materials as robust catalysts for oxygen reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hole transporting layer (HTL) plays an important role in device stability and charge transport for inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, a novel HTL consisted of mesoporous NiO nanosheet (NS) was fabricated via simple hydrothermal method. The contract region of HTL/perovskite was increased by using the mesoporous NiO NS network structure, resulting in the good interface contract and rapid charge transfer. Therefore, the corresponding devices exhibit an optimal power conversion efficiency of >12%, with hysteresis-less. Besides, the developed PSCs still maintain 75% efficiency after 500 h, implying its good stability. In a word, this mesoporous NiO NS structure can be a promising candidate for HTL of inverted PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Diverse strategies have been used to address the irreversible structural collapse issues of Ge-based anodes associated with lithium insertion/extraction. In this research, the hollow C-Ge and C-Si core-shell (Ge@C and Si@C) anode materials are successfully synthesized through a facile chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method onto hollow carbon nanoboxes. Compared with the Si@C nanoboxes anode, the Ge@C nanoboxes display better cycling performance, which is attributed to the Ge intrinsic favorable electronic/ionic conductivities and the distinctive Ge anode configurations. In addition, the conductive carbon nanobox supporting structure not only effectively accommodates the volume change of the amorphous Ge nanoparticles during the repeated cycling, but also significantly enhances the reaction kinetics of the Ge active material due to the enlarged surface area. More importantly, the nanoarchitecture of this un-protective Ge shell layer anode can be well maintained even after long-term cycling and the LiCoO 2 ||Separator(LiPF 6 +EC + DEC)||Ge@C full battery also display superior cyclability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organometallic halide perovskite materials have attracted great attention in the past few years owing to their excellent optical properties and solution-processable fabrication. However, the further development of these lead-based materials is restricted by the toxic heavy-metal element Pb. Herein, we present a dissolution-recrystallization method to fabricate high-quality lead-free Cs 3 Bi 2 I 9 perovskite nanosheets film and further explore its potential application in solar cells with three different kinds of hole transport materials. The solar cells based on ultrathin Cs 3 Bi 2 I 9 nanosheets show remarkable improvement in the photovoltaic performance and a high power conversion efficiency of 3.20% has been achieved in the solar cell with CuI as the hole transport material, which is the highest efficiency value of Bi-based perovskite solar cells that has been reported so far. The Cs 3 Bi 2 I 9 nanosheets based solar cell with CuI also showed a long-term stability in ambient air. These encouraging results of our work demonstrate the possibility of further improvement of the performance of lead-free perovskite solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A symmetrical, almost linear and planar motif 2,6-bis(1-phenyl-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-4-nitroaniline have been designed and synthesized by click chemistry. The synthesis of this novel structure is straightforward and inexpensive. Two kinds of polymorphic crystals are obtained in different solvents, suggesting the versatile intra- and intermolecular interactions. Theoretical calculation was used to study the linear absorption spectrum, which show good agreement with the experimental results. Linear optical property shows an absorption band centered at 368 nm. Nonlinear optical property displays a two-photon absorption cross sections around 200 GM under different power intensities. Therefore, this novel click-derived chromophore exhibits highly-transparent and stable two-photon absorption property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although CdS has been proven to be one of the best photocatalysts in visible light region, its photocorrosion characteristics and toxicity prohibit its practical applications in photocatalytic hydrogen generation and photodegradation of organic pollutants in waste water. In addition, the photocatalytic efficiency of single phase CdS nanostructure is still low due to the recombination of photo-induced carriers. In this paper, a facile modification of CdS nanobelts approach is proposed by assembling TiO 2 nanowire on the surface of CdS nanobelts to form TiO 2 nanowire/CdS nanobelt hybrid nanstructures. This approach can kill two birds with one stone, that is, to eliminate the photocorrosion induced nontoxicity, and enhance photocatalytic properties by inducing UV light active TiO 2 nanowires, and enhance the photo-induced carrier separation ability. The cell cyto-compatibility experiments on TiO 2 nanowire/CdS nanobelt hybrid photocatalyst proved that the toxicity of CdS nanobelts can be totally eliminated. At the same time, photodegradation performance of for CdS/TiO 2 is over 3 times of that for CdS nanobelts and10 times of that for TiO 2 . This work gives a new insight in the field of photocatalytic water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horses typically spend between from 4 to 15 hours a day in standing rest and anywhere from minutes to several hours lying down. Horses that have less sleep due to prolonged activities will result in health deterioration and poor welfare. From the literature search and from the authors' knowledge, the study on the sleeping patterns of domesticated horses in stable management in the tropics has not yet been explored. Thus, the aim of this study was to understand the sleeping patterns of selected local stabled horses in Malaysia. This study was conducted in 3 different stables around Klang Valley, Malaysia. Five healthy adult gelding Thoroughbred horses with body condition score of 3 out of 5 were selected randomly from each stable. The horses experienced the same daily activities and exercised for approximately 4 hours every day where they were used for riding activity. An observational cohort study method was used in this study. Each horse's sleeping patterns were observed for 72 hours. The time frame was divided into 12 hours a day for 6 days, continuously. In the present study, horses tended to sleep only during the night. The stable horses spent about 57.00 ± 25.00 min/24 h in sternal recumbency; 8.00 ± 6.00 min/24 hours in lateral recumbency; and 3.40 ± 0.70 minutes in each stay apparatus position before shifting weight to the other hindlimb. The implication of these findings will allow equine practitioners to understand the different sleeping patterns of horses to maintain the horses' welfare and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sb 2 Se 3 is a promising candidate for low toxicity, low-cost and high efficiency solar cells. Thin film solar cells employing Sb 2 Se 3 as the absorber have achieved power conversion efficiencies of up to 6.5%. However, these solar cells are typically fabricated using rapid thermal evaporation, a fast deposition technique but suffer from entangled substrate and source temperatures. Here, we report on the fabrication of stable and efficient CdS/Sb 2 Se 3 thin film solar cells using close-space sublimation process, which allows separate control of the source and substrate temperatures. This enables better control of Sb 2 Se 3 film deposition and reduction of interfacial diffusion, leading to higher quality absorber films and improved device heterojunctions. Additionally, we introduced a novel low-cost material 4,4',4'',4'''-(9-octylcarbazole-1,3,6,8-tetrayl)tetrakis(N,N-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)aniline) (CZ-TA) as the hole transport layer (HTL) to create n-i-p structured devices. This CZ-TA HTL reduced the back contact resistance and promoted photogenerated carrier collection, boosting device photo conversion efficiency to 6.84%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an anti-solvent process was used to fabricate a perovskite-PCBM bulk heterojunction, in which PCBM diffused in CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 and passivated grain boundary defects. Different concentrations of PCBM were studied in this paper. When a low concentration (5 mg/ml, 10 mg/ml or 15 mg/ml) of PCBM was used, the PCBM-CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 transition layer provided efficient electron collection. With the increase of the concentration of PCBM, a thicker PCBM layer was formed in the bulk heterojunction. Such a thick PCBM resulted in rough perovskite morphology and low photo-carrier collection efficiency. SEM images and metallographic microscope images confirmed that the PCBM upper layer gradually covered grain boundaries of perovskite films with the increase of the PCBM concentration. On the other hand, low concentrations of PCBM improved the light absorption and crystallinity of CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 films. The PCBM/perovskite heterojunction exhibited a high UV responsivity of 0.18 AW -1 and a response time less than 123 ms. This research provides a way to improve the quality of perovskite films and the performance of perovskite photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a study on the degradation of smuggled cigarette tobacco combined with domestic organic waste and sawdust or wood chips, using facultative reactor. Four reactors with different amounts of residue were assembled. For the study of the quality of the compost obtained, physicochemical, phytotoxicity and microbiological analyses were carried out. The mixture with wood chips presented the best temperature conditions and pH variation optimizing the degradation. The final germination index (GI) values of all treatments were above the recommended GI value (50%) and the final C/N ratio between 8 and 13 indicated a mature compost. The concentration of metals under study was below the limit allowed for the commercialization. The composting carried out in all facultative reactors provided ideal conditions for the total sterilization of the final compost. Therefore, the treatment of smuggled cigarettes through facultative reactors was efficient to produce stable and mature compost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superhydrophilic surfaces with liquid contact angles of less than 5 ° have attracted much interest in practical applications including self-cleaning, cell manipulation, adhesion enhancement, anti-fogging, fluid flow control and evaporative cooling. Standard laser metal texturing method often result in unstable wetting characteristics, i.e. changing from super hydrophilic to hydrophobic in a few days or weeks. In this paper, a simple one step method is reported for fabricating a stable superhydrophilic metallic surface that lasted for at least 6 months. Here, 316L stainless steel substrates were textured using a nanosecond laser with in-situ SiO 2 deposition. Morphology and chemistry of laser-textured surfaces were characterised using SEM, XRD, XPS and an optical 3D profiler. Static wettability analysis was carried out over a period of 6 months after the laser treatment. The effect of surface roughness on wettability was also studied. Results showed that the wettability of the textured surfaces could be controlled by changing the scanning speed of laser beam and number of passes. The main reason for the realisation of the stable superhydrophilic surface is the combination of the melted glass particles mainly Si and O with that of stainless steel in the micro-textured patterns. This study presents a useful method of fabricating stable superhydrophilic surfaces on metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) sheet, functionalized with polylithiated molecules (CLi 2 , OLi 2 ), has been investigated to study their structural, electronic and hydrogen (H 2 ) storage properties by van der Waals corrected first principles calculation. A strong binding of both CLi 2 /OLi 2 with two-sided coverage and large enough molecular distance ensures their uniform dispersion over the g-CN monolayer without forming clusters. Each Li in g-CN@2CLi 2 (g-CN@2OLi 2 ) adsorbs 3H 2 , due to its cationic nature through transferring a portion of its charge, resulting into a high H 2 storage capacity of 10.34% (9.76%). The calculated H 2 adsorption energies are well suited for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Minimally-invasive approaches are needed for long-term reliable Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings to assist with epilepsy diagnosis, investigation and more naturalistic monitoring. This study compared three methods for long-term implantation of sub-scalp EEG electrodes. Methods Three types of electrodes (disk, ring, and peg) were fabricated from biocompatible materials and implanted under the scalp in five ambulatory ewes for 3 months. Disk electrodes were inserted into sub-pericranial pockets. Ring electrodes were tunneled under the scalp. Peg electrodes were inserted into the skull, close to the dura. EEG was continuously monitored wirelessly. High resolution CT imaging, histopathology, and impedance measurements were used to assess the status of the electrodes at the end of the study. Results EEG amplitude was larger in the peg compared with the disk and ring electrodes (p < 0.05). Similarly, chewing artifacts were lower in the peg electrodes (p < 0.05). Electrode impedance increased after long-term implantation particularly for those within the bone (p < 0.01). Micro-CT scans indicated that all electrodes stayed within the sub-scalp layers. All pegs remained within the burr holes as implanted with no evidence of extrusion. Eight of 10 disks partially eroded into the bone by 1.0 mm from the surface of the skull. The ring arrays remained within the sub-scalp layers close to implantation site. Histology revealed that the electrodes were encapsulated in a thin fibrous tissue adjacent to the pericranium. Overlying this was a loose connective layer and scalp. Erosion into the bone occurred under the rim of the sub-pericranial disk electrodes. Conclusions The results indicate that the peg electrodes provided high quality EEG, mechanical stability, and lower chewing artifact. Whereas, ring electrode arrays tunneled under the scalp enable minimal surgical techniques to be used for implantation and removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hole transport materials, N-([1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)-9,9-dimethyl-N-(4-(naphtho[2,1- b ]benzofuran-6-yl)phenyl)-9H-fluoren-2-amine (DFA) and N-(9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluoren-2-yl)-9,9-dimethyl-7-(naphtho[2,1- b ]benzofuran-6-yl)-N-phenyl-9H-fluoren-2-amine (TFA) were designed, synthesized and fully characterized. The photophysical and thermal properties of these two compounds were investigated by UV–vis absorption spectra, photoluminescence spectra, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry analysis (DSC), which indicated that DFA and TFA would be efficient hole transport materials due to their proper HOMO energy levels and excellent thermal stability. Then, green OLEDs with DFA and TFA as hole transport layer, respectively, were fabricated, NPB-based OLEDs was also prepared for comparison. It turned out that DFA- and TFA-based devices exhibited higher efficiencies than that of NPB-based device, and TFA-based device showed the best performances with current efficiency, power efficiency and external quantum efficiency of 41.68 cd/A, 32.04 lm/W and 12.04%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airborne respirable dust (ARD) (<5 μm) in the stable environment is strongly implicated in equine asthma. Bedding, forage, ventilation rate, and stable management activities all contribute to ARD. This study investigated the relationship between ARD in the breathing zone (BZ) and the stable zone (SZ) in eight American barns (ABs) and eight stable complexes with individual stables under four different management regimes. Airborne respirable dust was measured in eight replicate stables per regime in ABs (n = 32) and eight per regime in single stables (n = 32). Regimes were as follows: (1) steamed hay and shavings; (2) dry hay and shavings; (3) haylage and straw; and (4) dry hay and straw. Samples were taken in quite periods between 3 PM and 4 PM hours. Airborne respirable dust levels were analyzed using Split-Plot analysis of variance and Wilcoxon matched-pairs test (Genstat 15) with P < .05 as significant. The lowest ARD (<360 RP/L air) was found for shavings and steamed hay in AB and single stables in both BZ and SZ. Straw and dry hay in ABs produced ARD of 6,250 (SZ), 5,079 RP/L air (BZ) which was greater ( P < .05) than the 2,901 (SZ) and 942 (BZ) RP/L air in single stables. Straw and haylage produced more ARD across both zones in single stables compared with ABs. Shavings and dry hay = more dust in the BZ than in the SZ, whereas straw and haylage = higher ARD in the SZ versus the BZ across both stable designs. Using dry hay and/or straw cannot be recommended as a suitable management regime for stabled horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]