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Red lake pigments are known for their high light-sensitivity generally when exposed to museum environments. In the cultural heritage field, the colour loss experienced by organic pigments is of special concern as the appearance of objects may be significantly altered after uncontrolled exposure to light. The present work focuses on the use of microfading testing (MFT) to study the light sensitivity of 19th century cochineal paints. MFT is a technique that combines visible reflectance spectroscopy with accelerated light ageing testing and was developed to perform in situ investigations of the light-sensitivity of cultural heritage materials in a relatively short amount of time. Reconstructions of these pigments following the manufacturing processes used by 19th century Winsor & Newton workers, as well as historic samples of cochineal pigments, were prepared using gum arabic and poly(vinylacetate). Purple cochineal paints showed a moderate sensitivity to light, while Carmine, Crimson and Scarlet paints were classified as high-sensitive materials. Overall, the carmine references turned out to be the most lightfast when mixed with gum-arabic while the scarlet pigment with poly(vinyl acetate) showed a slightly smaller colour change when compared with the almost complete loss of colour of the other poly(vinyl acetate) paints. Finally, advantages and drawbacks of the MFT method are addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the colour stability of spruce wood surfaces treated with coating systems (CS) and exposed to accelerated ageing. The tested CSs were transparent and three-layered; the top layer was modified with ultraviolet (UV) absorbers, while the base layer was modified with lignin stabiliser. Spruce wood surfaces treated with unmodified CSs were not colour-stable during the accelerated ageing process, with the surface exhibiting colour change after just 100 ageing hours. Adding specific UV absorbers into the top layer and lignin stabiliser into the base layer significantly improved the colour stability of the surface-treated wood. In all cases, however, the colour variation associated with ongoing ageing was significant. An additional study task was to determine whether the discolouration of surface-treated wood is caused by the discolouration of the wood substrate alone or also by the CS discolouration. Consequently, there was also the examination of discolouration of the individual coating materials or coating systems applied to glass slides. This testing proved that in the case of wood surface-treated with CS, without lignin stabiliser, the discolouration was the same as that of the substrate, and this was true throughout the whole ageing process. In the case of wood surface-treated with CS, but with lignin stabiliser, there were, in some cases, significant differences in discolouration between surface-treated wood and the wood substrate. These variations were especially evident during the initial 300 ageing hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In all areas of application, adhesive joints are exposed to environmental conditions, which can weaken the joint. To verify the functionality of the joints for a certain service life, accelerated ageing tests are used. To assess the mechanical performance of aged joints, single lap joints (SLJ) are often used. The influence of various geometries of SLJ on the strength and stress behaviour is known. The various ageing processes in bonded joints are not yet sufficiently known. Thus, the influence of the specimen geometry on the ageing behaviour cannot be reliably estimated and is therefore investigated in this work. SLJ with different geometries made of an AlMgSi alloy and a one-component epoxy-hybrid adhesive were artificially aged. T dimensions of the SLJ were varied in width, overlap length, adhesive thickness or joint design. Similar ageing results were seen in a significant shorter time with narrower samples or shorter overlap length. A SLJ with a bonding area of 6.3 mm x 6.3 mm was derived from these results. After 4–5 weeks of ageing, this shows comparable results to the standard test SLJ after 8 weeks. This allows to speed up industrial ageing tests nearly by factor two without changing ageing mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Seed vigour, including rapid, uniform germination and robust seedling establishment under various field conditions, is becoming an increasingly essential agronomic trait for achieving high yield in crops. However, little is known about this important seed quality trait. In this study, we performed a genome‐wide association study to identify a key transcription factor ZmRap2.7, which regulates seed vigour through transcriptionally repressing expressions of three ABA signalling genes ZmPYL3, ZmPP2C and ZmABI5 and two phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding genes ZCN9 and ZCN10. In addition, ZCN9 and ZCN10 proteins could interact with ZmPYL3, ZmPP2C and ZmABI5 proteins, and loss‐of‐function of ZmRap2.7 and overexpression of ZCN9 and ZCN10 reduced ABA sensitivity and seed vigour, suggesting a complex regulatory network for regulation of ABA signalling mediated seed vigour. Finally, we showed that four SNPs in ZmRap2.7 coding region influenced its transcriptionally binding activity to the downstream gene promoters. Together with previously identified functional variants within and surrounding ZmRap2.7, we concluded that the distinct allelic variations of ZmRap2.7 were obtained independently during maize domestication and improvement, and responded separately for the diversities of seed vigour, flowering time and brace root development. These results provide novel genes, a new regulatory network and an evolutional mechanism for understanding the molecular mechanism of seed vigour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the durability of short-rotation wood can be achieved through chemical and thermal modification. Chemical and thermal modification can have an impact on the physicochemical properties of wood, which can affect wood's surface characteristics and its resistance to weathering. The purpose of this study was to investigate the surface characteristics and artificial weathering resistance of chemically and thermally modified short-rotation teak wood coated with linseed oil (LO)-, tung oil (TO)-, and commercial oil-based coatings consisting of a mixture of linseed oil and tung oil (LT) and commercial oil-based polyurethane resin (LB) coatings. The short-rotation teak woods were prepared in untreated and treated with furfuryl alcohol (FA), thermal treatment (HT) at 150 and 220 °C, and combination of glycerol–maleic anhydride (GMA) impregnation with thermal treatment at 150 and 220 °C. The surface characteristics measured were surface free energy, wettability, Persoz hardness, bonding quality, and color changes before and after artificial weathering exposure. The results showed that chemical and thermal modifications treatment tended to reduce total surface free energy (SFE), hardness, wettability, and bonding quality. FA and GMA at 220 °C treatments provided homogenization effect on surface characteristics, especially in total SFE and wettability. The total SFE of untreated wood ranged from 45.00 to 51.13 mN/m, and treated wood ranged from 40.58 to 50.79 mN/m. The wettability of oil-based coating according to K-value ranged from 0.20 to 0.54. TO presented better photostability than LO. Short-rotation teak wood coated with oil-based commercial coatings presented better weathering resistance compared to pure natural drying oil. Commercial oil-based coatings provided better weathering protection for the chemically and thermally modified teak wood. The application of oil-based coatings on chemically and thermally modified short-rotation teak is being considered for the development of a better wood-protection system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present review has mainly focused on a systematic investigation of the genes responsible for biological ageing. Ageing has been defined as a successive decline in biological functions, leading to age-associated disorders, which have caused death. Cell homeostasis has been disturbed due to multiple factors such as accumulation of DNA damage, decrease in telomeres, replicative senescence, cell division, metabolism, respiration, autophagy, calorie management, and genetic integrity. This imbalance in cell homeostasis has a major impact on the accelerated biological ageing process. Increased risk of age-associated disorders and mortality rates makes it necessary to know the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind it. This current study provides an overview of genes and their functions associated with dysregulation in core cellular functions such as replication, genetic stability, metabolism, respiration, and autophagy. The genes associated with these biological processes have been identified through a comprehensive literature survey and additional genes were included based on the outcome of STRING analysis. These genes were functionally enriched using gene ontology. Finally, a selected set of genes was mapped with 74 biological functions. Then, a correlation map was plotted to bring out genes with maximum impact on the biological processes involved in ageing. This study not only observed the most commonly known players such as mTOR and SIRT1 but also noticed less-reported genes such as ATM, LRRK2, ERCC1, ATG5, and BECN1 which were also found to be highly impacting the process of biological ageing. Additionally, the gerontology of these top five less-reported genes also has been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mortar that is typically employed for interior or exterior coatings can be characterised using laboratory-prepared specimens according to specific test standards; however, its performance undergoes changes following application on substrates. When selecting mortar, it is vital to anticipate its in-service behaviour after its application on substrates to make the most informed choice. Most of the research work carried out to date analyses the characteristics of mortar in laboratory specimens. Some studies analyse these characteristics after its application to support, but very few exist that compare both behaviours. With this objective in mind, this research determined the properties of mortar when cured within laboratory moulds and assessed the behaviour of the same mortar after application on diverse substrate types. This study specifically evaluated the behaviour of a pre-dosed hydraulic lime mortar when applied on concrete blocks, lightweight concrete blocks, concrete slabs, hollow ceramic bricks, and solid ceramic bricks. Later, this behaviour was compared to the same type of mortar hardened in laboratory moulds and the same type of mortar applied on substrates and subjected to accelerated ageing. Moreover, data from previous experimental work were used to compare the behaviour of the pre-dosed hydraulic lime mortar with that of pre-dosed cement mortar when applied on similar substrates. The research drew upon a comprehensive characterisation of the physical and mechanical parameters of mortar, revealing that the performance of these types of mortar undergoes significant changes after application on substrates under in-service conditions, mainly when applied on more porous substrates. It was concluded that the application of mortar to substrates increased bulk density, decreased open porosity, enhanced compressive strength, and resulted in faster capillary absorption. For mortars subjected to accelerated ageing, a notable reduction in water vapour permeability was observed, which was attributed to changes in the pore profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a fuzzy model has been proposed for the control of the degradation process in Cultural Heritage. Specifically, the focus has been on the Nuragic building, Genna Maria, in Villanovaforru, Sardinia. Environmental data and material properties were considered to formalize inferences between different variables of the model. The results highlight the possibility of significant decay processes, such as salt crystallization and freeze-thaw cycles, estimated for all months of the year. A comparison between model elaborations and experimental data (material characterization, environmental data, accelerated ageing) demonstrates the reliability of the proposed procedure.

We have previously shown accelerated ageing in adolescents perinatally infected with HIV (PHIV +), based on discrepancies between epigenetic and chronological age. The current study examines follow-up longitudinal patterns of epigenetic ageing and the association of epigenetic ageing with cognition as well as whole brain structure changes in PHIV + and healthy controls enrolled in the Cape Town Adolescent Antiretroviral Cohort Study (CTAAC). The Illumina EPIC array was used to generate blood DNA methylation data from 60 PHIV + adolescents and 36 age-matched controls aged 9-12 years old at baseline and again at a 36-month follow-up. Epigenetic clock software estimated two measures of epigenetic age acceleration: extrinsic epigenetic accelerated ageing (EEAA) and age acceleration difference (AAD) at both time points. At follow-up, each participant completed neuropsychological testing, structural magnetic resonance imaging, and diffusion tensor imaging. At follow-up, PHIV infection remains associated with increased EEAA and AAD. Accelerated epigenetic ageing remained positively associated with viral load and negatively associated with CD4 ratio. EEAA was positively associated with whole brain grey matter volume and alterations in whole brain white matter integrity. AAD and EEAA were not associated with cognitive function within the PHIV + group. Measures of epigenetic ageing, as detected in DNA methylation patterns, remain increased in PHIV + adolescents across a 36-month period. Associations between epigenetic ageing measures, viral biomarkers, and alterations in brain micro- and macrostructure also persist at 36-month follow-up. Further study should determine if epigenetic age acceleration is associated with cognitive functional changes due to brain alterations in later life.

Background: Research examination led during the Rabi season of 2018-19 and 2019-20 to discover the Effect of hormonal seed strengthening on seed health status under accelerated ageing test in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) at state seed testing laboratory. The Blotter test was conducted in CRD plan with four replications. From the examination it was demonstrated that the hormonal treatment with salicylic acid at RH (90%) and temperature (35°C) for 2 days ageing showed least infection, while contagious contamination higher with the increment in relative humidity, temperature and duration of artificial ageing. Methods: During the years 2018 to 2020, the current experiment was carried out at the state seed testing laboratory, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. In the experiment, 37 different treatment permutations were used. To accelerate the ageing process, the seeds were placed in an ageing chamber with high temperatures and relative humidity. The aged seeds was then revitalized with hormones, a process known as hormonal seed fortification. Result: Our finding revealed that the aged seeds treated with gibberellic acid and salicylic acid (Growth Hormone) enhanced the quality of seed health status in Lentil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Nanoparticle pretreatment improved the health of aged Cajanus cajan seeds viz., regulation of redox status, gene expression, and restoration of hormonal homeostasis. Ageing deteriorates the quality of seeds by lowering their vigor and viability, and terminating with loss of germination. These days, nanotechnology has been seen to revolutionize the agricultural sectors, and particularly nano zinc oxide (nZnO) has gained considerable interests due to its distinctive properties. The aim of the present work was to decipher the possibilities of using nZnO to rejuvenate accelerated aged (AA) seeds of Cajanus cajan. Both chemically (CnZnO) and green (GnZnO; synthesized using Moringa oleifera) fabricated nZnOs were characterized via standard techniques to interpret their purity, size, and shape. Experimental results revealed erratic germination with a decline in viability and membrane stability as outcomes of reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) buildup in AA seeds. Application of nZnO substantially rebated the accrual of ROI, along with enhanced production of antioxidants, α-amylase activity, total sugar, protein and DNA content. Higher level of zinc was assessed qualitatively/ histologically and quantitatively in nZnO pulsed AA seeds, supporting germination without inducing toxicity. Meantime, augmentation in the gibberellic acid with a simultaneous reduction in the abscisic acid level were noted in nZnO invigorated seeds than that determined in the AA seeds, suggesting possible involvement of ROI in hormonal signalling. Furthermore, nZnO-subjected AA seeds unveiled differential expression of aquaporins and cell cycle regulatory genes. Summarizing, among CnZnO and GnZnO, later one holds better potential for a revival of AA seeds of Cajanus cajan by providing considerable tolerance against ageing-associated deterioration via recouping the cellular redox homeostasis, hormonal signaling, and alteration in expression patterns of aquaporin and cell cycle regulatory genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased interest in the use of polymer composites with natural, biodegradable and renewable fillers is the result of increased awareness of the environment. Therefore, the search for new materials that meet the above expectations is becoming a current issue. The article presents the results of research on composites containing pistachio shells (Pistacia vera L.), which are common agricultural waste, with unsaturated polyester resin based on post-consumer recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) and vinyl ester resin based on bisphenol-A. The environmentally friendly polymeric cobalt solution was used as the accelerator. In order to study the degradation of the composites, accelerated ageing, immersion in various solvents, and high temperature were used. From the obtained results, it can be observed that accelerated aging resulted in the additional cross-linking of the resin, while the filler absorbed the UV light. During immersion, the polymer matrix was degraded in acetone, whereas the incorporation of pistachio increases its water sorption and the plasticisation effect was also observed. The alkali environment initiated the hydrolysis of ester linkages. The vinyl ester resin-based materials were more chemically and thermally resistant than those from the unsaturated polyester. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef (Eragrostis tef) is a cereal grass and a major staple crop of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Despite its signifcant importance in terms of production, consumption, and cash crop value, tef has been understudied and its productivity is low. In this study, tef grains have undergone diferent priming treatments to enhance seed vigour and seedling performance. A conventional hydropriming and a novel additive priming technology with gas plasma-activated water (GPAW) have been used and tef grains were then subjected to germination performance assays and accelerated ageing. Tef priming increases the germination speed and vigour of the grains. Priming with GPAW retained the seed storage potential after ageing, therefore, presenting an innovative environmental-friendly seed technology with the prospect to address variable weather conditions and ultimately food insecurity. Seed technology opens new possibilities to increase productivity of tef crop farming to achieve a secure and resilient tef food system and economic growth in Ethiopia by sustainable intensifcation of agriculture beyond breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine how the tensile strength of glass fibre reinforced polymer stirrups is affected by different types of solutions, including alkaline, seawater, tap water, and acidic solutions. The study involved the production and testing of 260 stirrups in two different shapes (L and U) with diameters of 6 and 8 mm. The stirrups were immersed in different solutions for a period of 9 months at different temperatures (25, 40, and 60 °C). The findings indicated that the alkaline solution was the most aggressive environment, resulting in a maximum reduction of 92% in tensile strength after 9 months at 60 °C. Seawater and acidic solutions were the second and third most aggressive environments, causing maximum tensile strength reductions of 34 and 22% respectively, after 9 months at 60 °C. On the other hand, tap water was found to be the least aggressive environment, causing a maximum tensile strength reduction of 20% after 9 months at 60 °C. Furthermore, the study observed that the L-shaped stirrups exhibited slightly superior performance compared to the U-shaped stirrups. However, the diameter of the stirrups was found to be a negligible factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstact: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major incurable health burden, ranking as the third leading cause of death worldwide, mainly driven by cigarette smoking. COPD is characterised by persistent airway inflammation, lung function decline and premature ageing with the presence of pulmonary senescent cells. This review proposes that cellular senescence, a state of stable cell cycle arrest linked to ageing, induced by inflammation and oxidative stress in COPD, extends beyond the lungs and affects the systemic circulation. This pulmonary senescent profile will reach other organs via extracellular vesicles contributing to brain inflammation and damage, and increasing the risk of neurological comorbidities, such as stroke, cerebral small vessel disease and Alzheimer's disease. The review explores the role of cellular senescence in COPD‐associated brain conditions and investigates the relationship between cellular senescence and circadian rhythm in COPD. Additionally, it discusses potential therapies, including senomorphic and senolytic treatments, as novel strategies to halt or improve the progression of COPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns about the health and environmental risks linked with the use of preservatives, such as chromate copper arsenate (CCA), zinc chloride, mercuric chloride, and the oil-born preservative creosote, prompted the quest for the use of readily available bitumen as a wood preservative. Using samples that had been processed into dimensions of 20 × 20 × 60 mm, the durability and physical characteristics of Gmelina arborea wood treated with bitumen were evaluated. The samples were dried for 24 hours in an oven set to 103°C and treated with hot bitumen at a melting point of 270°C to ensure the flow and maximum penetration of the bitumen. The density showed mean values of 504.93 and 498.71 kg/m3 for the untreated and treated samples, respectively, with the treated samples recording lower values due to the thermal difference in the density distribution between the untreated and treated wood samples. The average weight loss due to leaching of the untreated and treated wood samples after soaking in cold water and hot water was 3.07% and 0.07%, 1.49% and 1.38% respectively for the treatment. The study confirmed the suitability of using bitumen as a preservative for treating G. arborea wood in an environment with extreme weather conditions without causing serious leaching, thereby exposing the wood to degrading agents.

Ageing wine in barrels is an historical practice used to improve the aromatic complexity of wine, but due to the high cost and the long ageing period, alternative approaches have been developed, such as the use of wood chips and ultrasound treatment. The present paper reports the results of an investigation performed on wine (cv. Primitivo). Three treatments were investigated: a) control wine untreated; b) wine with toasted vine-shoot chips (10 g/L); c) wine with toasted vine-shoot chips (10 g/L) and treated by ultrasound. Wines were analysed after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The application of ultrasound combined with vine-shoot chips promoted tannin evolution, thereby accelerating the ageing process of wine. The chips addition decreased the total anthocyanins content and increased the stilbenes (trans-resveratrol and trans-piceid) and wood-related aromas (i.e., furfural, 5-methylfurfural) concentration. Finally, wines added with chips were richer in woody, vanilla, oak, and chocolate notes and more preferred by the tasters.

Abstract Surge arresters are at the forefront of protection against voltage surges. The loss of the protective effect of surge arresters imposes accidents and unplanned shutdowns on the power system. It directly affects the interruption of power supplies and imposes fines on service providers. Monitoring and diagnostics in the lightning rod field require studies and work that present the degradation behaviour of surge arresters to help develop and improve existing techniques. This paper presents the development of a laboratory with a low-energy, mobile current waveform impulse generator. It allows for conducting aging tests by applying discharges to low-voltage zinc oxide surge arresters used in the energy distribution sector. Samples of surge arresters were subjected to the discharges produced by the developed generator, and they exhibited degradation, thus showing asymmetry between the positive and negative half-cycles of leakage current.

In this work, carbon-epoxy composites obtained by an autoclave process were subjected to accelerated ageing in controlled conditions of temperature, water and UV radiation. Each composite was exposed to salt water at 60°C or UV radiation at 60°C over a period of 6 months. Changes within the composites were evaluated by mass and density variation, mechanical testing and also in terms of camouflage. Results did not show significant changes in mass loss or density, and it was found that mechanical properties had decreased slightly. The biggest change is in camouflage. It was observed that during accelerated ageing, the composites' reemission coefficient becomes too high and composites lose camouflage properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effect of an oxide nanocoating to prevent colour degradation of maxillofacial silicone elastomers following accelerated ageing. Material and methods: Specimens (N = 40) of specified dimensions were fabricated in Factor II room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone and processed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Two groups were classified with 20 specimens each. Specimens in the first group were coated with titanium dioxide (TiO2) by atomic layer deposition technology. The colour stability test was conducted with a UV–VIS spectrometer (Schimadzu) for both titanium dioxide nanocoated and uncoated specimen groups after subjecting them to accelerated ageing. It was analysed using the CIE L*a*b method. Results: The average colour change was highest for uncoated specimens (2.868), and the average colour change for titanium dioxide-coated specimens was significantly low (1.774). The average colour change of uncoated specimens (2.868) was close to the acceptable threshold value (3), and that of coated specimens (1.774) was far below the acceptable threshold (3). Conclusions: The colour change that occurred in titanium dioxide nanocoated specimens following accelerated ageing was significantly lower than that in the uncoated group, showing that the TiO2 nanocoating was effective in reducing the colour degradation of silicone elastomers. Clinical relevance: Maxillofacial prostheses fabricated from silicone elastomers go through undesirable colour degradation over time. The development of a scientific technique that retards the colour deterioration of silicone prostheses would be of great clinical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphalt binder is a crucial component of asphalt pavements that undergoes ageing over time, which can result in the reduced performance and deterioration of pavements. Consequently, artificial ageing methods play a significant role in providing valuable insights into the ageing behaviour and long-term performance of asphalt binders. However, a consensus on the most effective method for simulating ageing behaviour remains elusive, leading to disparities in the outcomes across different research studies. To address this issue, the study utilises two thermo-oxidative ageing approaches, one focusing on the binder itself and another on the loose asphalt mixture. The study investigates the effect of these ageing methods on the behaviour of asphalt binder using physical, rheological, and chemical characterisation. For the binder ageing method, a rolling thin film oven (RTFO) and a pressure ageing vessel (PAV) were utilised, whereas the loose asphalt mixture ageing was performed in an oven at 95 °C for various durations. The results indicated that the ageing trend differed between the two oxidative ageing approaches as the ageing duration increased. However, by employing an ageing sensitivity index, comparable rheological properties were observed between the binders aged using the PAV for 20 h and the loose asphalt mixture for 5 days. The Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis revealed that the ageing methods influenced the functional groups associated with ageing in distinct ways, even though they exhibited similar rheological behaviour. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of different thermo-oxidative ageing approaches, their correlation, and their relevance to the studied field-aged binders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed propagation is the most commonly used method for producing Allium mongolicum seeds. However, as storage time increases, the seeds may suffer from ageing to varying degrees. This study aims to investigate the proteome expression of A. mongolicum seeds with different levels of vigor. The findings of this study will provide evidence of protein expression levels that reveal the mechanism behind the ageing of A. mongolicum seeds. An integrated approach of tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling in conjunction with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to capture the differential protein expression profiles of A. mongolicum seeds under unaged (Control), lightly aged (LA) and severely aged (SA). In total, 4336 proteins were identified, of which 4318 were quantifiable. After accelerated ageing, 291 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified. Compared with Control, 36 DEPs (16 up-regulated and 20 down-regulated) were found in LA; and 139 DEPs (64 up-regulated and 75 down-regulated) in SA. Compared with LA, 116 DEPs (51 up-regulated and 65 down-regulated) were found in SA. A number of candidate proteins associated with seed ageing were screened, including ATP-dependent RNA helicase-like protein DB10 (Unigene0060546), β-D-glucan exohydolase (Unigene0008772), Histone H1.2 partial (Unigene0049278), defensin Ec-AMP-D2 (Unigene0042879), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone) FQR1 (Unigene0047137), glutathione S-transferase (Unigene0000863), oleosin S1-2 (Unigene0011542), probable inactive purple acid phosphatase 2 (Unigene0010352), glutathione S-transferase U8-like (Unigene0006910), and glutathione S-transferase U17-like (Unigene0051938). Additionally, this study was the first to determine the proteome of A. mongolicum seeds. These data provided references for further study of seed ageing mechanism of A. mongolicum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a risk factor for the development of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. It has an estimated prevalence of 40 % among older adults. Epigenetic clocks, which measure biological age based on DNA methylation (DNAm) patterns, are a candidate biomarker for ageing. GrimAge is one such clock which is based on levels of DNAm at 100 Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine (CpG) sites. This study hypothesised that those with MetS have ‘accelerated ageing’ (biological age greater than their chronological age) as indexed by GrimAge. This study examined MetS's association with GrimAge age acceleration (AA) using data from a subsample of 469 participants of the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). MetS was defined by National Cholesterol Education Program Third Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) and International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) criteria, operationalised using the conventional binary cut-off, and as a count variable ranging from 0 to 5, based on the presence of individual components. This study also explored inflammation (as measured by C reactive protein) and metabolic dysfunction (as measured by adiponectin) as possible mediating factors between MetS and GrimAge AA. We found that MetS as defined by IDF criteria was associated with GrimAge AA of 0.63 years. When MetS was treated as a count, each unit increase in MetS score was associated with over 0.3 years GrimAge AA for both ATP III and IDF criteria. Inflammation mediated approximately one third of the association between MetS and GrimAge AA, suggesting that chronic subclinical inflammation observed in MetS has a relationship with DNAm changes consistent with a faster pace of ageing. Metabolic dysfunction mediated the association between MetS and GrimAge AA to a lesser extent (16 %). These data suggest that chronic subclinical inflammation observed in MetS has a relationship with DNAm changes consistent with a greater pace of ageing.

Concerns about the health and environmental risks linked with the use of preservatives, such as chromate copper arsenate (CCA), zinc chloride, mercuric chloride, and the oil-born preservative creosote, prompted the quest for the use of readily available bitumen as a wood preservative. Using samples that had been processed into dimensions of 20 × 20 × 60 mm, the durability and physical characteristics of Gmelina arborea wood treated with bitumen were evaluated. The samples were dried for 24 hours in an oven set to 103°C and treated with hot bitumen at a melting point of 270°C to ensure the flow and maximum penetration of the bitumen. The density showed mean values of 504.93 and 498.71 kg/m3 for the untreated and treated samples, respectively, with the treated samples recording lower values due to the thermal difference in the density distribution between the untreated and treated wood samples. The average weight loss due to leaching of the untreated and treated wood samples after soaking in cold water and hot water was 3.07% and 0.07%, 1.49% and 1.38% respectively for the treatment. The study confirmed the suitability of using bitumen as a preservative for treating G. arborea wood in an environment with extreme weather conditions without causing serious leaching, thereby exposing the wood to degrading agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The oil stability of tree nuts during storage can be influenced by storage conditions such as temperature, humidity, and moisture concentration. However, few studies have assessed how the presence of testa and shell affects the oil stability of tree nuts during storage. We aimed to determine how storage conditions affect oil stability in almond and canarium, in particular, the presence of testa and storage time of nut-in-shell (NIS). (2) Methods: We measured peroxide value (PV), free fatty acid (FFA) and hexanal concentrations of almond and canarium (blanched vs. kernel-in-testa) stored at 45 °C for 24 days. We also measured PV, FFA and fatty acid composition of canarium samples at days 0 and 140 stored as NIS under ambient conditions. (3) Results: The presence of testa in almond and canarium decreased hexanal and PV concentrations at day 24 of incubation. Canarium PV and FFA concentrations increased over 140 days of storage in the shell compared to day 0. However, both PV and FFA concentrations remained within the acceptable threshold during storage. No changes in fatty acid composition were found during NIS storage. (4) Conclusions: Testa and shell could act as a natural coating, slowing down oxidation rates. Hence, long-term storage on nuts in testa or nuts in shell are recommended for tree nuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ageing of alcoholic beverages is a common practice in order to increase their quality and characteristic flavour. These changes during the ageing process are caused by a series of chemical reactions that take place between the wood extractable compounds, the distillate and the oxygen that passes through the wood. However, this process is slow and can take several years. This research focussed on optimising the use of Quercus alba chips and ultrasound in the accelerated ageing process of sugar cane spirit using the response surface methodology. The effect of temperature and ultrasound was analysed using a two-level factorial design type 22. Subsequently, the accelerated ageing process was optimised using response surface methodology. Temperature and time of exposure to ultrasound energy were the selected independent variables. As a response variable, the total polyphenol index (TPI) was selected. In addition, the CIELab method was used to determine the chromatic characteristics (L*, a*, b*) of the aged samples. Toasting had a negative effect on the TPI, whilst the oak chips that were untoasted and treated with ultrasound obtained the highest TPI yield (80.5–81.5 mg GAEeq/L). The TPI values obtained through the use of the accelerated ageing method suggest that this is more efficient than the traditional ageing process, as it leads to a decrease in the maturation period of sugar cane spirit. Regarding colour properties, a higher intensity of colour was found in the samples where the accelerated ageing method was applied. The temperature and sonication time of 48.9 °C and 18.8 min were the optimal parameters in order to obtain a TPI value (85 GAEeq./L) comparable to the Brandy Solera Reserve (12–18 months for the traditional method) for sugar cane spirit using the accelerated method. The findings of this research can contribute towards the development of new ageing processes of distillates, mainly in terms of decreasing ageing times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The globalisation of the beer market forces brewers to have methodologies that rapidly evaluate the evolution of beer flavour stability. Commonly used forced ageing methods have limitations since temperature and transportation conditions (temperature, vibrations, long-distance travel, and other factors) impact beer quality. This study assessed the prediction power of a forced ageing methodology on the evolution of aldehydes during maritime transportation across four sample groups (maritime transport, storage simulation, and three ageing periods: 7, 21, and 28 days at 37 °C), which differed in their bottle-opening system (either crown cap or ring pull cap). The results revealed that forced ageing up to 28 days could estimate the evolution of phenylacetaldehyde, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylpropanal, and hexanal during maritime transport. In contrast, the benzaldehyde content was consistently underestimated, on average, 0.8 times lower. In general, the ageing conditions significantly favoured the formation or liberation from a bound state, up to 2.2 times higher, of trans-2-nonenal, acetaldehyde, and 5-hydroximethylfurfural in comparison to the levels registered on exportation simulation beers. Moreover, forced-aged beers with ring pull caps developed quantifiable levels of nonanal and increased phenylacetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, and acetaldehyde content over time. Moreover, thermal stress induced a continuous increase in the extent of beer staling, up to seven times higher, in most samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of a standardised methodology for the application of coatings on heritage metals can lead to non-comparable results. A careful and meaningful study requires considering the different application variables involved, especially in the preparation of the coupons. In this work, the effect that these application variables can have on the protective capacity of the coatings used has been studied. The influence of the thickness, number of layers and drying time (between layers and final) of Paraloid B-72, C80 microcrystalline wax and Incralac has been evaluated. Coatings have been applied on bare steel coupons, thickness measured with an induction probe, and subject to artificial ageing on UV light/water condensation cycles. The performance of the coatings has been studied by visual inspection and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Morphology of the layers has been characterised by optical microscopy and the composition of the corrosion products by Raman spectroscopy. Results show that the number of layers is not always proportional to the final thickness of the coating, and that drying time is a critical factor affecting the thickness and the protective properties of the coatings. After accelerated ageing, some coatings that had been left to dry for 14 days have a much better protective capacity than those that were left to dry for less time. Without taking into account these factors, performance measured can be wrong and comparison between materials misleading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) generated from naturally aged Japanese hanging scrolls and their model samples were measured using solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) to clarify the effect of different painting papers and raw materials on the degradation state of hanging scrolls. VOC-based degradation markers were identified and their applicability was considered for degradation evaluations of actual Japanese hanging scrolls. The relative peak areas of different VOC groups were calculated by normalising their peak areas to the total peak area of long-chain hydrocarbons. When a painting paper was immersed in a CuSO4・5H2O solution, or coated with an alum solution, the relative peak areas of furfural and carboxylic acids increased after accelerated ageing, while these relative peak areas decreased when animal glue was applied, indicating that animal glue inhibited the generation of VOCs. When the painting paper containing Cu2+ was stacked with lining paper, furfural and carboxylic acids migrated into the lining paper with ageing. Animal glue coated on the painting paper retarded this migration into the lining paper. For the lining paper coated with wheat starch paste, the relative peak areas of furfural, carboxylic acids, and aliphatic aldehydes did not change significantly with ageing, indicating that wheat starch paste did not contribute to paper degradation, although these relative peak areas increased when aged wheat starch paste was applied. These results indicate that the targeted VOCs are valid degradation markers of Japanese hanging scrolls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the agents of deterioration considered particularly damaging to cultural heritage objects are light, ultraviolet (UV) and infrared. The high-energy UV is the most damaging of the three, as it can cause irreversible visual, chemical and structural changes in cellulose-based materials. Known for its photocatalytic properties, TiO2 can absorb UV and is thermally and chemically stable. In this study, we propose an innovative bilayer coating composed of starch, methyl cellulose and nano-TiO2 to utilize UV blocking properties of TiO2. The results of the treatments were assessed by determining physical, optical and surface properties, as well as the degradation degree of the samples, prior and post accelerated ageing. The results show that an increase in the weight concentration of TiO2 enhances the colour difference, but the colour of samples coated by lower concentrations of TiO2 after accelerated ageing is closer to the original value than the colour of the uncoated ones. An increase in both the contact angle and the absorption time is also present, but after ageing, both parameters significantly decrease due to the presence of TiO2. To conclude, the presented nanocomposite coating can protect historic paper from UV, but one should bear in mind that a higher weight concentration could lead to a higher water sensitivity after exposure to UV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between metabolic disorders, overweight and obesity with markers of accelerated ageing in patients with hypertension. Materials and methods: One hundred sixteen patients (the age 35-65 years, women 62.3%) with stage 1-2 grade 1-2 hypertension and low/moderate cardiovascular risk (CVR) were included in the study. 34 patients (27.59%) were obese, 50 patients (43.1%) were overweight, 32 patients (29.31%) had normal weight. Anthropometric, clinical, biochemical and molecular genetic methods (relative telomere length (RTL-b), telomerase activity (TA) and 5-methylcytosine global methyl level (GML) in DNA of blood mononuclear cells) were used. Epigenetic age was calculated using the DNAm PhenoAge epigenetic clock. Results: The increase markers of carbohydrate metabolism [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)], changes of lipid metabolism indicators [an increase in triglycerides (TG) and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)] were revealed in the obese group, compared with the normal weight group (p < 0.05). We didn't find differences in RTL-b in any groups (p > 0.05). But at the same time obese patients had higher GML and lower TA (p < 0.05). The accelerated ageing (by DNAm PhenoAge epigenetic clock) was association with higher visceral fat%, higher levels, TG, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, all parameters of carbohydrate metabolism (HbA1c, FPG, Insulin, HOMA-IR) and lower HDL-C (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Pathological weight gain associated with the progression of metabolic disorders and accelerated ageing in patients with hypertension and low/moderate cardiovascular risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural ageing has a major influence on the properties of paper, while light, heat, and humidity are the environmental influences that most disrupt the stability of paper. This research focuses on changes in straw-containing papers caused by accelerated ageing. The papers were made in the laboratory by mixing straw pulp with the pulp of recycled fibers in different weight ratios and were artificially aged by a dry-heat treatment (thermal oxidation) and UV radiation treatment (photo-oxidation) over a 24 h period to simulate natural ageing. The observed changes in the optical, surface, and chemical stability of papers were analyzed and are discussed in this paper. It is evident that, regardless of the origin of straw for pulp production, it forms papers that undergoes similar optical properties (photo-yellowing and brightness lose), while certain differences have been observed in surface and chemical stability. Based on all analyses performed as part of this research, it was found that paper produced with the addition of wheat pulp is the most stable of all laboratory straw-containing papers. However, it must be emphasized that, if lignin-containing straw pulp is used as the main constituent of paper, the brightness stability of such pulp must be improved, or the paper surface must be improved by surface finishing in order to obtain greater stability against ageing.

The aim was to investigate how the surface treatment and the process of accelerated ageing of zirconia for dental implants affect the biaxial flexural strength and hardness. Zirconia discs with a diameter of 12.6 mm were subjected to either one of the following treatments: polishing (Zp); polishing and heat treatment at 1250 °C for 1 h (Zpt); machining (Zm); machining and heat treatment (Zmt); or sandblasting, acid-etching, and heat treatment (Z14) (n = 45 per group). Biaxial flexural strength and Martens hardness (HM) were measured without further treatment and after accelerated ageing for 5 h or 5 × 5 h according to ISO 13356 (n = 15 per group). Two-way ANOVA was applied to test the effect of surface treatment and ageing (α = 0.05). The reliability of the specimens was described with Weibull two-parameter distribution of biaxial flexural strength data. Overall, the surface treatment (p < 0.001) and ageing (p = 0.012) revealed a significant effect on biaxial flexural strength values, while HM was only affected by the surface treatment (p < 0.001) but not ageing (p = 0.160). Surface treatment significantly affected HM (p < 0.001) but not ageing (p = 0.160). The applied surface treatments affected the biaxial flexural strength and HM of zirconia. For accelerated ageing, a duration of both 5 h and 5 × 5 h is recommended to evaluate the effect of surface treatments. Zm was the most reliable surface as it was least affected by ageing and provided low standard deviations of biaxial flexural strength values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work evaluates the effects of accelerated aging on the discolouration of surface-treated spruce wood and oak wood coated with solvent-based polyurethane lacquers, and surface-treated spruce wood coated with water-based transparent coating systems. All concerned coating materials were intended for indoor use. It was also explored how the colour stability of spruce wood and oak wood surfaces treated with solvent-based polyurethane lacquers was affected by wood surface layer modifications with pigment or stain mordants applied before these lacquers. Another issue studied was how the lignin stabilizer admixed into the primer and pigments admixed into the top coating layers affected the stability of water-based coating systems on spruce. The experimental results showed that the accelerated aging process with a simulation of indoor conditions induced significant discolouration of wood surfaces coated with solvent-based polyurethane lacquers and water-based coating systems. There were also confirmed significant impacts of all the studied factors (wood species, lacquer/coating system type, lacquer modification, wood pre-treatment with pigment and stain mordants). The spruce wood surfaces coated with solvent-based polyurethane lacquers were less stable (ΔE = 10–19, dependent on the lacquer type) than the oak surfaces treated in the same ways (ΔE = 4–11). There were also confirmed significant impacts of the particular surface treatment on the colour stability as well as significant impacts of wood surface pre-treatment with pigment and stain mordants (ΔE = 4–17—for spruce wood, and ΔE = 5.5–13—for oak wood). In the case of water-based lacquers, the ΔE values ranged between 3 and 11 (according to the coating system type). The results show that an appropriate UV absorbent combined with an appropriate lignin stabilizer and pigment mordant may enable attaining the required colour stability for a given surface treatment applied on a given wood species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the degradation behaviour of rolled hanging scrolls for future conservation treatments, we evaluated the degradation–position profiles of naturally aged hanging scrolls and their model samples, which were subjected to different storage conditions. For the sample immersed in a CuSO4・5H2O solution and rolled around a glass rod, accelerated ageing using the open method (80°C, 65% RH) revealed a tendency of lower pH and higher discolouration towards the central positions, where rolling caused the most tightness. However, no clear tendencies were observed for the concentration variations of organic acids. The degradation effects of the organic acids emitted from the paulownia wooden box were also examined using the sealed tube method by enclosing the rolled painting paper and acidic paper containing organic acids together in a glass tube. Large amounts of oxalic and formic acids were detected at the periphery and scant migration of the organic acids was observed towards the centre, thus indicating that the central positions of the painting paper were less susceptible to the influence of the organic acids emitted from the external environment. By contrast, glycolic acid diffused towards the centre. The analysis of two naturally aged hanging scrolls showed different degradation behaviours. One sample, stored open in the rolled state, showed severe discolouration with the naked eye at the outermost back surface of the scroll. This was possibly associated with the large amount of sulfate ions originating from the external atmosphere, which kept the pH lower and increased discolouration towards the peripheral positions of the painting paper. For the sample stored in a paulownia wooden box, discolouration was not observed with the naked eye at the outermost back surface of the scroll, although lower pH and higher discolouration were observed towards the central positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Protective multifunctional properties of archaeological textiles were achieved by coating methods. • Hydrophilic fabrics surface was developed using Ca-alginate/metal oxide NPs coating. • Super-hydrophobic fabrics surface was developed using SiO 2 NPs/ silicone rubber. Multifunctional protective surfaces for protecting archaeological textiles are of great interest in the conservation of the archaeological textile field. This study aims to provide protective properties against UV irradiation and microorganisms as well as self-cleaning properties to coloured archaeological textile surfaces without damaging their mechanical and colour properties. For the first time, two facile approaches for preparing the protective surfaces of archaeological textiles were developed to protect their surfaces from light radiation, microbes, and liquid stains. To achieve this aim, the study was carried out on empirically accelerated ageing dyed linen fabrics with madder natural dye, to get mockups as similar as possible to the archaeological ones (standard aged linen fabrics). In the first approach, the aged linen fabrics were coated with Ca-lignate@metal oxide NPs to fabricate hydrophilic fabrics' surfaces. In the second approach, the aged linen fabrics were coated with SiO 2 NPs/silicone rubber to fabricate hydrophobic fabrics' surfaces. The influence of the two coating approaches was evaluated on the performance and protective properties of coated aged linen samples, such as wettability, mechanical properties, coloration, UV protection, antimicrobial activity, and self-cleaning. Design innovative strategies for coating archaeological linen textiles surface to achieve protective multifunctional properties [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis sativa L. is a plant belonging to the Cannabaceae family known primarily for its recreational use due to the psychoactive properties of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Despite this, several compounds belonging to the category of phytocannabinoids have shown in recent years a number of potentially promising therapeutic effects that have increased the interest in the pharmaceutical field towards this plant. However, the content of these compounds is very variable and influenced by different factors, such as growing conditions and time of the year. An indication of the status and age of Cannabis samples is provided by the content of CBN, a minor phytocannabinoid and degradation product of other phytocannabinoids, including THC. In this research work an innovative, solid state analytical approach has been developed to observe and evaluate the variations in the content of two phytocannabinoids (CBN and CBD) in Cannabis-derived products over time. In order to simulate the ageing of the Cannabis samples, an artificially accelerated ageing procedure has been developed and optimised by using high temperatures. The analyses were carried out using an innovative ATR-FTIR method for solid state analysis, enabling direct analysis of a solid sample without any pretreatment phase. This study has allowed the development of an innovative analytical approach for the evaluation of the age and state of conservation of Cannabis samples and may be a useful tool both in the industrial, pharmaceutical and forensic fields. [Display omitted] • An accelerated procedure for ageing studies of Cannabis products has been developed. • Microwave heating and oven heating were compared. • Samples were subjected to 70°C temperature in a humid oven environment. • The procedure used ATR-FTIR signals of CBN and CBD to evaluate concentration changes. • The 32-h results closely matched those from 12 months of natural aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed propagation is the most commonly used method for producing Allium mongolicum seeds. However, as storage time increases, the seeds may suffer from ageing to varying degrees. This study aims to investigate the proteome expression of A. mongolicum seeds with different levels of vigor. The findings of this study will provide evidence of protein expression levels that reveal the mechanism behind the ageing of A. mongolicum seeds. An integrated approach of tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling in conjunction with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to capture the differential protein expression profiles of A. mongolicum seeds under unaged (Control), lightly aged (LA) and severely aged (SA). In total, 4336 proteins were identified, of which 4318 were quantifiable. After accelerated ageing, 291 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified. Compared with Control, 36 DEPs (16 up-regulated and 20 down-regulated) were found in LA; and 139 DEPs (64 up-regulated and 75 down-regulated) in SA. Compared with LA, 116 DEPs (51 up-regulated and 65 down-regulated) were found in SA. A number of candidate proteins associated with seed ageing were screened, including ATP-dependent RNA helicase-like protein DB10 (Unigene0060546), β-D-glucan exohydolase (Unigene0008772), Histone H1.2 partial (Unigene0049278), defensin Ec-AMP-D2 (Unigene0042879), NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (quinone) FQR1 (Unigene0047137), glutathione S-transferase (Unigene0000863), oleosin S1-2 (Unigene0011542), probable inactive purple acid phosphatase 2 (Unigene0010352), glutathione S-transferase U8-like (Unigene0006910), and glutathione S-transferase U17-like (Unigene0051938). Additionally, this study was the first to determine the proteome of A. mongolicum seeds. These data provided references for further study of seed ageing mechanism of A. mongolicum.

Abstract Introduction Midlife physical capability (PC) is associated with developmental factors in the populations of economically developed countries. As far as we know, there is no information for rural populations of low- and middle-income countries. The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of pre- and postnatal factors on midlife objective measures of PC in a 1966–67 birth cohort from a Mexican rural community. The hypothesis was that adverse developmental conditions are associated with low midlife PC. Methods In 1966–67, a birth cohort of all children from a poor Mexican rural community was assembled. Data on family socioeconomic status (SES), parental health and nutritional status, birth weight, postnatal growth and feeding patterns were registered. In 2018, out of the 336 cohort members, 118 were living in the community, and eighty-two of them underwent a comprehensive clinical evaluation. The evaluation included grip strength, gait velocity and chair-stand PC tests. In multivariable linear models, PC tests were the dependent variables, and prenatal, birth and postnatal factors were the independent variables. Adjustment for confounding was made with adult anthropometric, body composition, clinical and ageing status variables. Results Independent of adult health status and other ageing indicators, lower PC was associated with family organization and SES, parental nutritional status, birth weight, infant postnatal growth velocity, and weaning time. These results indicate that adverse family and environmental conditions that are prevalent in poor rural communities are associated with low midlife PC.

Spelt (Triticum spelta L.) has been increasingly attracting producers due to the biological properties and chemical composition of its seeds. As high-quality seeds are necessary for successful production, the vigour of organically and conventionally produced spelt seeds has been studied and results are presented in this paper. The seeds of the variety Nirvana produced by both methods at the Maize Research Institute "Zemun Polje" in 2015 were observed. According to the results, the germination energy of conventionally and organically produced seeds amounted to 30% and 69%, respectively. The total germination of conventionally and organically produced spelt seeds amounted to 99% and 93%, respectively. The percentage of abnormal seedlings of spelt produced by both methods amounted to 1% on average. The participation of diseased and dead seeds was higher in organically produced seeds (6%) than in conventionally produced seeds (0%). After the seed accelerated ageing test, a higher germination was observed in conventionally produced seeds (75%) than in organically produced seeds (68%). The electric conductivity of conventionally produced seeds amounted to 189.4 mS/cm and 195.2 mS/cm in the first and the second replication, respectively, while the values of organically produced seeds amounted to 95.5 mS/cm and 98.6 mS/cm, in the first and the second replication, respectively. The results obtained by the electrical conductivity test indicated that the conventionally produced spelt seeds (32.33 µS/cm g) were classified into the category of low vigour seeds in comparison to organically produced spelt seeds (27.65 µS/cm g).

This paper aims to evaluate a Type-II insulated wire (i.e., Glass fibre insulated wire) as a function of thermal ageing time based on partial discharges (PD) activity. Partial discharge inception voltage (PDIV), partial discharge extinction voltage (PDEV), and repetitive partial discharge inception voltage (RPDIV) measurements have been performed on both unaged and thermally aged specimens. Each specimen modelled the turn-to-turn insulation; hence it was made by a pair of Glass fibre wires wrapped in PTFE tape for a mechanical purpose. The PD tests have been carried out under positive and negative unipolar square waveform excitations using different rise times: 80, 400 and 800 ns. The trend of PD quantities vs exposure time demonstrates that the effect of space charge accumulation under unipolar excitation must be taken into account when unaged and thermally aged specimens are compared. Results revealed that although sometimes thermally aged samples might show a temporary superiority in the short run, unaged ones always present a better performance after space charge accumulation, as expected. Following the statistic postprocessing of the collected data, shape/slope parameters of the Weibull distribution relevant to PDIV can be used as an ageing indicator for Glass fibre insulated wire. Finally, the permittivity evaluation vs thermal and electrical stresses have been performed, relying on the measured capacitance of each specimen just after every PD test. Such analysis revealed that thermal ageing increases permittivity in the long run. However, electrical stress has different impacts on permittivity depending on the rise time, polarity, and magnitude of the applied voltage.

Introduction: Telomeres are specialized DNA-protein complexes located at the ends of all chromosomes and act as a "molecular clock" to determine the replicative lifespan of the cells. Recent studies indicate that life-long exposure to stress, starting from the prenatal period, causes many diseases to emerge at an early age, and telomeres may be possible mediators in this process. This article aims to review the relationship between the stress-telomere-disease triad and the potential role of telomere dysfunction in psychopathologies in the light of current literature. Methods: A literature search was conducted along the lines of a narrative review. PubMed and Web of Science databases were used to identify all types of articles published from inception to January 2022. After the title/ abstract search, articles available in full text and English were selected based on key findings, the applicability of the method used to test the hypothesis, limitations, interpretation of the results, and impact of the results in the field. A total of 73 records were included in this narrative review. Results: The fact that some age-related chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes, are seen more frequently and at an earlier age in certain psychopathologies including depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia suggests that these disorders are premature ageing syndromes. Although there are some conflicting results in the literature, in line with this hypothesis, the presence of shortened telomeres reported in these psychopathologies and the impact of lifelong exposure to stress on this process are remarkable. Conclusion: Many of the studies point to an association and do not tell much about the causality. Hence, the elucidation of the biological processes underlying the relationship between psychological stress, dysfunctional telomeres and complex, common age-related diseases, as well as psychiatric disorders is important and further studies are needed at the cellular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accelerated ageing reactions that take place between two solid materials on contact in the absence of added solvent have been used to synthesize two spin‐crossover‐active 1D coordination polymers and one of their Cu(II) analogues. The hygroscopy of the ligands and the relative humidity of the reaction chamber have been shown to be particularly important factors in the rate of reaction. Small‐scale reactions between a few individual crystals have allowed observation of deliquescence of the 4‐aminotriazole ligand at high humidity. The metal salt does not dissolve, and the ligand diffuses into the crystal of the metal salt during the reaction. In the case of the Cu analogue, the formation of the product causes the crystal of the metal salt to deform with the formation of pseudocrystals, which have a fibrous structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]