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AbstractIn this work, the shield inert synchronous grouting material were fabricated using slag powder, fly ash and silica fume as the raw materials. In view of the inevitable influence of environmental factors on shield grouting materials after construction, the environmental resistance of inert grouting materials and single liquid active synchronous grouting materials was comparatively investigated by water absorption test, impermeability test, chemical corrosion resistance test as well as frost resistance test. Water absorption test confirmed that inert grouting materials possessed hygroscopic rate of 10.12%, which is lower than 11.31% of the counterpart after 48 h immersion. The impermeability pressure of the inert grouting materials was as high as 0.93 MPa, which was also higher than the single liquid grouting materials. Chemical corrosion resistance test showed that inert grouting materials exhibibted better salt erosion resistance, acid erosion resistance and alkali erosion resistance compared with single liquid active synchronous grouting materials under the same conditions. Frost resistance confirmed that the inert grouting materials strength exhibited loss rate and mass loss rate of 1.64% and 0.33%, which were lower than 1.92% and 0.62% of the single liquid active synchronous grouting materials after 10 freeze-thaw cycles. The phase changes of grouting materials at different ages were comparatively investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the microstructure evolution of grouting materials at different ages were compared by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was observed that the key for enhanced environmental resistance of inert grouting materials was the formation of a large number of cementitious materials and crystalline substances in the hydration process, which effectively improved the compactness and internal strength of inert grouting materials. On this basis, the work mechanism of environmental resistance for slag powder-fly ash-silica fume-based shield inert synchronous grouting material was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The increased contamination of potentially toxic element (PTE) has posed remarkable ecological risks to environment. Application of functionalized biochar for the remediation of PTE contaminated water and soils are of great concern, and effective strategies are urgently needed to enhance the removal capacity of biochar for PTE. As a novel surface modification technology, the effect of layered double hydroxides (LDH) and sodium dodecyl sulfonate (SDS) on the remediation capacity of biochar for PTE polluted soils and water remains unclear. Sawdust biochar (SB) was coated with Mg and Fe to synthesize the Mg-Fe-LDH functionalized biochar (MFB); thereafter, the MFB was mixed with SDS solution to synthesize the organic-Mg-Fe-LDH biochar (MSB). The potential of SB, MFB, and MSB for remediation of Cd and Pb contaminated soil and water was evaluated in terms of adsorption capacity, immobilization efficiency, and stability. Loading of Mg-Fe-LDH into SB, along with SDS treatment created a regular micro-nano hierarchical structure and enhanced the surface roughness, aromaticity, and hydrophobicity of MSB as compared to SB. MSB exhibited a significantly higher maximum adsorption capacity (mg g−1) for water Pb (405.2) and Cd (673.0) than MFB (335.9 for Pb and 209.0 for Cd) and SB (178.2 for Pb and 186.1 for Cd). MSB altered the soluble fraction of Cd/Pb to the residual fraction and thus significantly decreased their mobilization in soil. The higher removal/immobilization efficiency of MSB could be attributed to its alkalinity, and the enhanced synergistic interactions including surface precipitation, ion exchange, complexation, and hydrogen bonding. The resistance to carbon loss by H2O2, thermal recalcitrance index R 50, and degree of graphitization in MSB were significantly improved compared to SB, indicating a more stable carbon fraction sequestered in MSB following aging in soil. These results indicate that MSB could be used for remediation of Cd and Pb contaminated soil and water. Graphical Abstract

Most asbestos-related studies have focused on asbestos exposure risks, their associated health implications, and waste management issues. Our research introduced a unique perspective that has rarely been explored: the impact of environmental factors on asbestos cement products. The novelty of the study is that, in contrast to previous research, in addition to determining the material quality of asbestos, it analyses the trace materials, additives and the emissive nature of chrysotile fibers. This study aims to identify the chrysotile-asbestos content in three common asbestos cement products found in Hungary, with regard to the release of their fibers upon exposure to the environment and to identify trace elements that could be used to identify the origin and function of each of these products. Our analyses revealed the presence of chrysotile in each tested sample, with spectral matches ranging from 59.6% to 86.7%. Asbestos cement products exposed to various environmental influences for long periods showed a greater chrysotile emission capacity than those unexposed or hermetically sealed ones. Additionally, we established that all asbestos cement products contained glass fibers, with an average spectral match of 62.1%. We further identified polysilicate in the materials with an average spectral match of 66.0%, as it was included in asbestos cement products to enhance their heat resistance. Our results pave the way for a new methodology for assessing asbestos cement products with regard to the implementation of their trace element level assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper describes the type of changes in the structure and mechanical properties of 3D printed shapes under the influence of mineral oil. The effects of a room (23 °C) and elevated temperature (70 °C) on 3D prints manufactured by the FDM method and stored in oil for 15, 30, and 60 days on the change of properties and structure were investigated. The samples were produced from ABS (poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene-co-styrene)), ASA (poly(acrylonitrile-co-styrene-co-acrylate), PLA (poly(lactic acid)), and HIPS (high-impact polystyrene). Tests related to the strength of the materials, such as the static tensile test and Charpy impact test, were carried out. The structure was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope, and changes in chemical structure were determined by conducting FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and TGA (thermogravimetric analysis) tests. The analysis of the results provided important information about the impact of mineral oil on specific materials. This is critical for designing and manufacturing components that can withstand mineral oil exposure in real-world environments. The materials underwent varying changes. Strength increased for PLA by about 28%, remained unchanged for ABS and HIPS during exposure for 30 days, and decreased for ASA with extended exposure up to 14%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii oocysts, which are shed in large quantities in the feces from infected felines, are very stable in the environment, resistant to most inactivation procedures, and highly infectious. The oocyst wall provides an important physical barrier for sporozoites contained inside oocysts, protecting them from many chemical and physical stressors, including most inactivation procedures. Furthermore, sporozoites can withstand large temperature changes, even freeze-thawing, as well as desiccation, high salinity, and other environmental insults; however, the genetic basis for this environmental resistance is unknown. Here, we show that a cluster of four genes encoding Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA)-related proteins are required to provide Toxoplasma sporozoites resistance to environmental stresses. Toxoplasma LEA-like genes (TgLEAs) exhibit the characteristic features of intrinsically disordered proteins, explaining some of their properties. Our in vitro biochemical experiments using recombinant TgLEA proteins show that they have cryoprotective effects on the oocyst-resident lactate dehydrogenase enzyme and that induced expression in E. coli of two of them leads to better survival after cold stress. Oocysts from a strain in which the four LEA genes were knocked out en bloc were significantly more susceptible to high salinity, freezing, and desiccation compared to wild-type oocysts. We discuss the evolutionary acquisition of LEA-like genes in Toxoplasma and other oocyst-producing apicomplexan parasites of the Sarcocystidae family and discuss how this has likely contributed to the ability of sporozoites within oocysts to survive outside the host for extended periods. Collectively, our data provide a first molecular detailed view on a mechanism that contributes to the remarkable resilience of oocysts against environmental stresses. IMPORTANCE Toxoplasma gondii oocysts are highly infectious and may survive in the environment for years. Their resistance against disinfectants and irradiation has been attributed to the oocyst and sporocyst walls by acting as physical and permeability barriers. However, the genetic basis for their resistance against stressors like changes in temperature, salinity, or humidity, is unknown. We show that a cluster of four genes encoding Toxoplasma Late Embryogenesis Abundant (TgLEA)-related proteins are important for this resistance to environmental stresses. TgLEAs have features of intrinsically disordered proteins, explaining some of their properties. Recombinant TgLEA proteins show cryoprotective effects on the parasite's lactate dehydrogenase, an abundant enzyme in oocysts, and expression in E. coli of two TgLEAs has a beneficial effect on growth after cold stress. Moreover, oocysts from a strain lacking all four TgLEA genes were more susceptible to high salinity, freezing, and desiccation compared to wild-type oocysts, highlighting the importance of the four TgLEAs for oocyst resilience.

The purpose of this study is to determine the material properties of CFRP composites in the form of a fabric for the construction of racing car bodywork. This work focused on the determination of the strength and tribological properties as well as investigating the effects of the operating environment on the developed material. Three material variants, differing in the number of layers used to produce the reinforcement, were used in this study. The tests were carried out on two-/three-/four-layer sheets produced by infusion. Due to the later use of the tested composites for the sheathing of a racing car, the results obtained were analysed in terms of the most favourable strength properties while keeping the weight as low as possible. In this study, the hardness, impact strength, and tensile and bending stresses of the developed composites were examined. In addition to the strength properties, the density, the effects of immersion in water, and the composite's resistance to staining and friction in the presence of aggressive media were also checked. The structure and the breakthroughs resulting from the strength tests were observed using a stereoscopic microscope. The material's resistance to sunlight and UVB was also tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although pallets made of different materials are used to transport goods in large quantities worldwide, traditional codes provide design values not directly applicable to metal pallets. In this work, a mechanical model has been proposed by providing simplified analytic exact equations for these types of pallets. This model offers improvements over the current references, considering only the loadings and geometry. Under the described assumptions, this mechanical model could be adopted for pallets of different materials. Several experimental tests were carried out to assess the real mechanical behaviour of metal pallets made of aluminium and steel under specific loadings, and to estimate their performance under chemical, microbiological and environmental attacks compared to wood and plastic. The results have shown that metal pallets provide a good global performance.

The purpose of this study is to determine the material properties of CFRP composites in the form of a fabric for the construction of racing car bodywork. This work focused on the determination of the strength and tribological properties as well as investigating the effects of the operating environment on the developed material. Three material variants, differing in the number of layers used to produce the reinforcement, were used in this study. The tests were carried out on two-/three-/four-layer sheets produced by infusion. Due to the later use of the tested composites for the sheathing of a racing car, the results obtained were analysed in terms of the most favourable strength properties while keeping the weight as low as possible. In this study, the hardness, impact strength, and tensile and bending stresses of the developed composites were examined. In addition to the strength properties, the density, the effects of immersion in water, and the composite’s resistance to staining and friction in the presence of aggressive media were also checked. The structure and the breakthroughs resulting from the strength tests were observed using a stereoscopic microscope. The material’s resistance to sunlight and UVB was also tested.

In recent years, the study of urban flood resistance has included the perspectives of spatial environment and multiple elements of urban space, which break through the limitation of only focusing on engineering measures in traditional disaster prevention. The article constructs a flood prevention and mitigation index system under the perspective of resistance based on the basic work of urban physical examination and ignoring the variability of population size affected by floods in different regions. It also takes 6 districts and 6 counties under the jurisdiction of Zhengzhou City as the research object, combines the relevant data of 12 cities, uses the entropy weight method and the coefficient of variation method to determine the index weights comprehensively and introduces the barrier degree diagnosis model. This article carries out urban flood control and disaster reduction special physical examination, considers resistance obstacle factors and promotes strategy analysis and research. The results show that from the perspective of spatial distribution, the flood control and flood mitigation resistance of Zhengzhou City is in a "differential" distribution state and the high resistance areas are Erqi District, Jinshui District and Gongyi City. In general, the resistance index in the southwest region was higher than that in the northeast region and there was a significant difference between urban areas and counties, showing a medium-high and medium-low resistance status. From the results of the study, to improve the level of resistance to flood mitigation in each city, it is necessary to focus on the main obstacle factors that hinder the development of the city and to fundamentally improve the level of resistance to create a more livable and healthier city according to local conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ratoon rice cropping has been shown to provide new insights into overcoming the current challenges of rice production in southern China. However, the potential mechanisms impacting yield and grain quality under rice ratooning remain unclear. Methods: In this study, changes in yield performance and distinct improvements in grain chalkiness in ratoon rice were thoroughly investigated, using physiological, molecular and transcriptomic analysis. Results: Rice ratooning induced an extensive carbon reserve remobilization in combination with an impact on grain filling, starch biosynthesis, and ultimately, an optimization in starch composition and structure in the endosperm. Furthermore, these variations were shown to be associated with a protein-coding gene: GF14f (encoding GF14f isoform of 14-3-3 proteins) and such gene negatively impacts oxidative and environmental resistance in ratoon rice. Conclusion: Our findings suggested that this genetic regulation by GF14f gene was the main cause leading to changes in rice yield and grain chalkiness improvement of ratoon rice, irrespective of seasonal or environmental effects. A further significance was to see how yield performance and grain quality of ratoon rice were able to be achieved at higher levels via suppression of GF14f. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

S. maltophilia is a widely distributed bacterium found in natural, anthropized and clinical environments. The genome of this opportunistic pathogen of environmental origin includes a large number of genes encoding RND efflux pumps independently of the clinical or environmental origin of the strains. These pumps have been historically associated with the uptake of antibiotics and clinically relevant molecules because they confer resistance to many antibiotics. However, considering the environmental origin of S. maltophilia, the ecological role of these pumps needs to be clarified. RND efflux systems are highly conserved within bacteria and encountered both in pathogenic and non-pathogenic species. Moreover, their evolutionary origin, conservation and multiple copies in bacterial genomes suggest a primordial role in cellular functions and environmental adaptation. This review is aimed at elucidating the ecological role of S. maltophilia RND efflux pumps in the environmental context and providing an exhaustive description of the environmental niches of S. maltophilia. By looking at the substrates and functions of the pumps, we propose different involvements and roles according to the adaptation of the bacterium to various niches. We highlight that i°) regulatory mechanisms and inducer molecules help to understand the conditions leading to their expression, and ii°) association and functional redundancy of RND pumps and other efflux systems demonstrate their complex role within S. maltophilia cells. These observations emphasize that RND efflux pumps play a role in the versatility of S. maltophilia.

ABSTRACT Toxoplasma gondii oocysts, which are shed in large quantities in the feces from infected felines, are very stable in the environment, resistant to most inactivation procedures, and highly infectious. The oocyst wall provides an important physical barrier for sporozoites contained inside oocysts, protecting them from many chemical and physical stressors, including most inactivation procedures. Furthermore, sporozoites can withstand large temperature changes, even freeze-thawing, as well as desiccation, high salinity, and other environmental insults; however, the genetic basis for this environmental resistance is unknown. Here, we show that a cluster of four genes encoding Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA)-related proteins are required to provide Toxoplasma sporozoites resistance to environmental stresses. Toxoplasma LEA-like genes (TgLEAs) exhibit the characteristic features of intrinsically disordered proteins, explaining some of their properties. Our in vitro biochemical experiments using recombinant TgLEA proteins show that they have cryoprotective effects on the oocyst-resident lactate dehydrogenase enzyme and that induced expression in E. coli of two of them leads to better survival after cold stress. Oocysts from a strain in which the four LEA genes were knocked out en bloc were significantly more susceptible to high salinity, freezing, and desiccation compared to wild-type oocysts. We discuss the evolutionary acquisition of LEA-like genes in Toxoplasma and other oocyst-producing apicomplexan parasites of the Sarcocystidae family and discuss how this has likely contributed to the ability of sporozoites within oocysts to survive outside the host for extended periods. Collectively, our data provide a first molecular detailed view on a mechanism that contributes to the remarkable resilience of oocysts against environmental stresses. IMPORTANCE Toxoplasma gondii oocysts are highly infectious and may survive in the environment for years. Their resistance against disinfectants and irradiation has been attributed to the oocyst and sporocyst walls by acting as physical and permeability barriers. However, the genetic basis for their resistance against stressors like changes in temperature, salinity, or humidity, is unknown. We show that a cluster of four genes encoding Toxoplasma Late Embryogenesis Abundant (TgLEA)-related proteins are important for this resistance to environmental stresses. TgLEAs have features of intrinsically disordered proteins, explaining some of their properties. Recombinant TgLEA proteins show cryoprotective effects on the parasite’s lactate dehydrogenase, an abundant enzyme in oocysts, and expression in E. coli of two TgLEAs has a beneficial effect on growth after cold stress. Moreover, oocysts from a strain lacking all four TgLEA genes were more susceptible to high salinity, freezing, and desiccation compared to wild-type oocysts, highlighting the importance of the four TgLEAs for oocyst resilience.

The development of additive manufacturing methods known as "3D printing" started in the 1980s. In these methods, spatial models are created from a semi-finished product such as a powder, filament or liquid. The model is most often created in layers, which are created from the semi-finished product, which is most often subjected to thermal treatment or using light or ultraviolet rays. The technology of additive manufacturing has both advantages and disadvantages when compared to the traditionally used methods of processing thermoplastic materials, such as, for example, injection or extrusion. The most important advantages are low cost, flexibility and speed of manufacturing of elements with different spatial shapes. From the point of view of the user of the product, the most important disadvantages are the lower mechanical properties and lower resistance to environmental factors that occur during the use of the manufactured products. The purpose of this review is to present current information and a compilation of features in the field of research on the effects of the interactions of different types of environments on the mechanical properties of 3D-manufactured thermoplastic products. Changes in the structure and mechanical properties of the material under the influence of factors such as humidity, salt, temperature, UV rays, gasoline and the environment of the human body are presented. The presented article enables the effects of environmental conditions on common materials used in 3D printing technology to be collated in one place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we developed a novel method to prepare a hydrogel‐based electronic skin by self‐assembling cross‐linking. The conductive hydrogel (named PGRS) integrates multiple properties. The hydrogel has good moisture retention (70 °C, 14 days), adhesion, and high elongation (2799 %). When the hydrogel is damaged externally, it can repair itself without external stimulation. The hydrogel adheres to the skin surface and monitors large strain movements, such as finger joints, wrist joints, elbow joints, head lowering and head lifting. It can also detect small movements, such as drinking and talking. It is used as an adhesive in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). PGRS conductive hydrogel with multiple synergistic functions. It has great potential in the direction of flexible electronic skin. It indicates that PGRS conductive hydrogels have highly prospective applications in wearable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To overcome the limitations of traditional antistatic fillers, such as unstable electrical performance and single functionality in complex marine environments, this work prepared antistatic carbonaceous fiber and carried out surface modification using polydopamine (PDA) and hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS). This not only significantly improved the stability of the carbon fiber in high damp and heat, high salt spray, and high UV harsh environment, but also endowed it with excellent microwave absorption performance. The resistivity stability of the modified fibers was improved by 27 %, 36 %, and 60 %, respectively in accelerated experiments of damp heat, UV, and salt spray, compared with the unmodified fibers. Due to its inherent moderate conductivity and the excellent impedance matching properties imparted by the surface modification layer, the modified carbonaceous fiber also exhibited good absorption performance with reflection loss of −46.2 dB at a thickness of 2.1 mm and a frequency of 15.1 GHz and broad effective absorption bandwidth of 6.2 GHz at 2.2 mm. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quorum sensing receptor SdiA is vital for the environmental resistance of Cronobacter sakazakii , facilitating its survival in powdered infant formula (PIF). In this study, a three-dimensional model of the SdiA receptor was developed, and molecular docking was used to screen inhibitors targeting SdiA. The interaction mechanisms and the blocking effect of inhibitors on quorum sensing were also validated. Among hit compounds, phloretin significantly reduced the environmental resistance of the wild type (WT) at a sub-inhibitory concentration of 0.6 mg/mL (p < 0.05), lowering the survival rates from 4.61, 5.65, and 5.32 log to 2.76, 1.30, and 1.71 log under heat, osmotic, and desiccation stress, respectively. In simulated aqueous conditions, the stability of phloretin-SdiA complex was maintained throughout over 70 ns, with van der Waals forces and electrostatic interactions crucial for its structural stability. The interactions between phloretin and SdiA lead to a discernible increase in the UV absorption and a significant quenching of the endogenous fluorescence of the SdiA protein, with the α-helical content increasing from 54.3% to 65.2%. Additionally, inoculation of 4 log 10 CFU/mL of WT in dry powder materials of PIF, combined with phloretin at a concentration of 0.6 mg/mL and simulation of evaporation and drying processes, reduced WT below detection limit for enumeration. The outcomes of this study provide valuable scientific evidence and insights for developing innovative prevention and control strategies against C. sakazakii. [Display omitted] • Phloretin exhibited a strong inhibitory effect on SdiA-Mediated quorum sensing. • UV, fluorescent and CD spectroscopy confirmed the interaction of phloretin with SdiA. • Van der Waals forces contributed to structural stability of SdiA-phloretin complex. • Phloretin inactivated C. sakazakii in whey protein and oligofructose effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main topic of this case study is local community response to environmental contamination resulting from corruption and waste mismanagement. The field research was carried out in part of a massive Italian district colloquially referred to as the "land of fires” where illegal wastes dumped by the mafia routinely burned. A document analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Abandoned by those tasked with protecting public and environmental health, one might expect widespread concern, activism and protest. The case study supports the theory in terms of citizen mobilization while clarifying conditions that discourage public protest and action. The waste companies and the governmental institutions intended to regulate them were perceived as jointly complicit. Those who did not protest appeared to be caught in a classic double bind in which any response they made was wrong. Fear that the contamination and fires were harming their health demanded action. Yet, citizens dreaded that such efforts would bring mob and institutions' reprisal and did not have practical effective outcomes. This dilemma is fully explored, and the results are discussed within an eco-historical perspective. The case study is also updated to reflect more recent conditions that inspired widespread protest in the same affected region.

Developing the thermal stability of metal-based ceramic composites or their films has always been challenging and bottlenecks for the utilization of energy. In this paper, the novel mesh-like functional Al doped-MoO 3 nanocomposite film with even distribution and high purity was firstly fabricated by the high-efficiency electrophoretic deposition and surface modification. The optimal suspension turned out to be the mixture of isopropanol and the additives of polyethyleneimine and benzoic acid. The microtopography, crystalline structure, environmental resistance and thermal stability were analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), exposure and droplet-impacting test, DSC analysis and ignition test, respectively. The water contact angle and sliding angle of product can reach ~170° and <1°, indicating the excellent anti-wetting property. In addition, the high heat-release (~3180 J/g) of product all kept almost unchangeable after six months exposure experiments, demonstrating the outstanding thermostability. The exquisite design idea here can perfectly match microelectromechanical system (MEMS), providing the valuable reference for fabricating other metal-based high-energy composites with long lifespan for real industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe negative effects of impurities adhering to the external surface of wearable devices can significantly influence the signal transmission, performance, and lifespan of hydrogel sensors. Herein, we developed an ion-conducting hydrogel sensor with a strong adhesive side and a non-adhesive side, similar to a "semi-releasing material." This hydrogel, formulated using deep eutectic solvents obtained from choline chloride and acrylic acid, contained lignin. This versatile material, exhibiting properties similar to semi-releasing materials, was treated with an AlCl 3 solution on one side. Additionally, the hydrogel was successfully used as a highly adhesive strain sensor for real-time monitoring of various human activity signals. Moreover, the hydrogel demonstrated excellent environmental tolerance and conductivity. Lignin extracted from wood flour endowed the hydrogel sensor with excellent adhesion energy (up to 427.1 J/m2) and UV resistance. Treatment of hydrogels with AlCl 3 completely eliminated their adhesiveness, thereby enhancing fracture elongation and tensile strength. This improvement can be attributed to the absence of carboxyl groups and the formation of a metal-phenolic network. The implementation of this convenient and efficient strategy provides a more feasible approach to address challenges related to impurity adhesion and signal transmission in flexible wearable devices. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

InIn this paper, utilizing the technology of color laser marking of stainless steel in industrial productions is investigated from the perspective of repeatability and stability of produced color markings. The color laser marking has remarkable advantages over conventional metal coloring methods; however, in order to implement this technology in industry, the reliability, stability and quality of resulting markings must be endorsed. For this purpose, an AISI 304 color palette made up of fifteen colors was evolved. The dependence of produced colors on different laser processing parameters were analyzed. Afterward, the produced colors were tested utilizing optical, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy, and the configuration of oxide films was specified through Raman spectroscopy. The obtained colors had proper uniformity, brightness, and cover almost all spectral regions. Also, color standardization and palette repeatability test were performed by assessing and evaluating the reflectance spectra of the formed colors. The color palette demonstrated high repeatability for all colors except for one specific color. Moreover, the stability of color markings in terms of environmental, mechanical and chemical resistance was investigated. The resulting colors showed high resistance in most of the environmental conditions; however, exposure to very high temperatures and extreme humidity (100°C, 90%) and low temperature and extreme humidity (-40°C, 90%) leads to deterioration of few colors. Color marks showed high hardness and excellent mechanical stability to external impacts and outstanding resistance to various chemicals, excluding acidic solutions and salts.

Azole resistance is an emerging problem in patients with aspergillosis. The role of fungicides for resistance development and occurrence is not fully elucidated. EUCAST reference MICs of 17 fungicides (11 azoles and 6 others), five azole fungicide metabolites and four medical triazoles were examined against two reference and 28 clinical isolates of A. fumigatus, A. flavus and A. terreus with (n = 12) and without (n = 16) resistance mutations. Eight/11 azole fungicides were active against wild-type A. fumigatus, A. flavus and A. terreus, including four (metconazole, prothioconazole-desthio, prochloraz and imazalil) with low MIC50 (≤2 mg/L) against all three species and epoxiconazole, propiconazole, tebuconazole and difenoconazole also against wild-type A. terreus. Mefentrifluconazole, azole metabolites and non-azole fungicides MICs were >16 mg/L against A. fumigatus although partial growth inhibition was found with mefentrifluconazole. Moreover, mefentrifluconazole and axozystrobin were active against wild-type A. terreus. Increased MICs (≥3 dilutions) were found for TR34/L98H, TR34³/L98H, TR46/Y121F/T289A and G432S compared to wild-type A. fumigatus for epoxiconazole, propiconazole, tebuconazole, difenoconazole, prochloraz, imazalil and metconazole (except G432S), and for prothioconazole-desthio against TR46/Y121F/T289A, specifically. Increased MICs were found in A. fumigatus harbouring G54R, M220K and M220R alterations for five, one and one azole fungicides, respectively, compared to MICs against wild-type A. fumigatus. Similarly, increased MICs wer found for A. terreus with G51A, M217I and Y491H alterations for five, six and two azole fungicides, respectively. Azole fungicides showed activity against wild-type A. fumigatus, A. terreus and A. flavus, but not against all mutant isolates, suggesting the environmental route of azole resistance may have a role for all three species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental resistance is an important factor for understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis. Recently, new Leptospira hosts were identified, including also marine mammals. Moreover, halotolerant Leptospira strain, isolated from the environment and animals, highlighted the capability of this microorganism to persist in the seawater. The aim of this research was to investigate the bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect of salt on Leptospira strains belonging to 16 different serovars. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were verified through the microdilutions method starting from a 20% sodium chloride concentration. MIC values obtained were between 0.3125% and 10% of salt, while MBC values between 0.625% and >20%. Icterohaemorrhagiae (MIC: 0.3125%; MBC: 0.625%) resulted the most inhibited serovar, while the most resistant was Tarassovi (MIC: 10%; MBC: >20%). Interestingly, trends were reported for Pomona (MIC: 1.25%; MBC: >20%) and Bratislava (MIC: 0.625%; MBC: 20%), highlighting low MIC values but high MBC values. This is the first investigation aimed at the in vitro effect of salt on the growth of Leptospira spp. reference strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A double-layer broadband AR coating was designed by the thin film design software (TFCalc™). • The average transmittance of the double-layer AR coating reached 99.64% in the region of 400–800 nm. • The coating exhibits good environmental-resistance and self-cleaning properties. • This broadband antireflective coating holds great potential for use in the field of solar cells. We present a new type of ultra-low refractive index antireflective (AR) coating based on spherical-chain silica particle with super-hydrophobic surface. This AR coating is fabricated using methyltriethoxysilane (MTES) and ethylsilicate (TEOS) as co-precursors to direct silica particles to form a spherical-chain structure. Then hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) was further used to modify the surface of spherical-chain silica particle, which greatly decreases the refractive index of the silica thin film from 1.139 to 1.098. The formation mechanism of the ultralow refractive index thin film is proposed. The spherical-chain silica particle surface modification with HMDS significantly improves the hydrophobicity of the coated film; the water contact angle of the film increases from 42° to 168°. Ultimately, using this hydrophobic ultralow-index coating as a top-layer, a high-performance double-layer antireflective coating was fabricated with self-cleaning, environmental resistance and a high average transmittance of 99.64% in the wavelength range of 400–800 nm. This multi-functional broadband antireflective coating has potential value in the field of solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Siloxane polymers constitute a category of organic-inorganic hybrid polymers that manifest properties arising from both their organic side groups and inorganic backbone. This unique combination confers upon these polymers exceptional physical and chemical characteristics. Within siloxane polymers, the highly optical transparent cyclosiloxane-containing polymers emerged as a favorable candidate for excellent performance in thermal resistance, ion selectivity and permeability, dielectric properties, and processibility. This review aims to present a comprehensive overview of cyclosiloxane-containing polymers' preparation, properties, and applications. The synthesis methods and kinetics pertinent to these polymers are concisely summarized. Additionally, a detailed exposition is provided on cyclosiloxane's optical, mechanical, dielectric, and thermal properties. The inherent weaknesses of these polymers are thoroughly examined, and corresponding remedial strategies are discussed. The conventional applications of cyclosiloxane-containing polymers span diverse domains, including nanoimprinting, separation processes, coating, thermal interface materials, and ceramic precursors. Recent applications such as 3D printing ink and lithium battery electrolyte are also included in the review, showcasing the versatility and potential of the hybrid material. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Deserts are biologically rich habitats with a vast array of animals and plants adapted to xeric conditions, and most deserts are among the planet’s last remaining areas of total wilderness. Among North American deserts, the Chihuahuan Desert has the highest levels of diversity and endemism. To understand the effect of future climate change on plants distributed in this arid land and propose effective conservation planning, we focused on five endemic shrubby species that characterize the Chihuahuan Desert and used an integrative approach. Methods Ecological niche-based modeling, spatial genetics and ecological resistance analyses were carried out to identify the effect of global warming on the studied five shrubby species. Key areas that need to be preserved were identified taking into account the existing protected areas within the Chihuahuan Desert. Results The extent of future distribution will vary among these species, and on average expansion will occur in the western part of the Chihuahuan Desert. For most species low environmental resistance to gene flow was predicted, while higher future resistance was predicted for one species that would lead to increased population isolation. The highest haplotype diversity was identified in three hotspots. Based on future suitability of habitat and in the haplotype diversity we suggest preserving two hotspots of genetic diversity in the Sierra Madre Oriental, located in areas without protection. The third hotspot was detected in the well preserved Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Man and Biosphere Reserve. Conclusion Global climate change will have an effect in arid adapted plants, favoring expansion in the western of the Chihuahuan Desert however negatively affecting others with high ecological resistance disrupting gene flow. Two hotspots of genetic diversity in the Sierra Madre Oriental should be protected.

The appearance of the circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the world was unexpected, surprising the medical world both in terms of knowledge about it and the supplies of medical materials necessary for effective protection against it. The data accumulated so far refer to the origin of the virus, its evolution in the world, the routes of transmission and the titer of antibodies that occurs after passing through the disease [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deserts are biologically rich habitats with a vast array of animals and plants adapted to xeric conditions, and most deserts are among the planet's last remaining areas of total wilderness. Among North American deserts, the Chihuahuan Desert has the highest levels of diversity and endemism. To understand the effect of future climate change on plants distributed in this arid land and propose effective conservation planning, we focused on five endemic shrubby species that characterize the Chihuahuan Desert and used an integrative approach. Methods: Ecological niche-based modeling, spatial genetics and ecological resistance analyses were carried out to identify the effect of global warming on the studied five shrubby species. Key areas that need to be preserved were identified taking into account the existing protected areas within the Chihuahuan Desert. Results: The extent of future distribution will vary among these species, and on average expansion will occur in the western part of the Chihuahuan Desert. For most species low environmental resistance to gene flow was predicted, while higher future resistance was predicted for one species that would lead to increased population isolation. The highest haplotype diversity was identified in three hotspots. Based on future suitability of habitat and in the haplotype diversity we suggest preserving two hotspots of genetic diversity in the Sierra Madre Oriental, located in areas without protection. The third hotspot was detected in the well preserved Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Man and Biosphere Reserve. Conclusion: Global climate change will have an effect in arid adapted plants, favoring expansion in the western of the Chihuahuan Desert however negatively affecting others with high ecological resistance disrupting gene flow. Two hotspots of genetic diversity in the Sierra Madre Oriental should be protected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental resistance is an important factor for understanding the epidemiology of leptospirosis. Recently, new Leptospira hosts were identified, including also marine mammals. Moreover, halotolerant Leptospira strain, isolated from the environment and animals, highlighted the capability of this microorganism to persist in the seawater. The aim of this research was to investigate the bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect of salt on Leptospira strains belonging to 16 different serovars. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were verified through the microdilutions method starting from a 20% sodium chloride concentration. MIC values obtained were between 0.3125% and 10% of salt, while MBC values between 0.625% and >20%. Icterohaemorrhagiae (MIC: 0.3125%; MBC: 0.625%) resulted the most inhibited serovar, while the most resistant was Tarassovi (MIC: 10%; MBC: >20%). Interestingly, trends were reported for Pomona (MIC: 1.25%; MBC: >20%) and Bratislava (MIC: 0.625%; MBC: 20%), highlighting low MIC values but high MBC values. This is the first investigation aimed at the in vitro effect of salt on the growth of Leptospira spp. reference strains.

Flax fibre bio-epoxy composites have not found many commercial uses in structural applications on account of their lack of cost efficiency and high susceptibility to environmental changes. Non-woven flax mats were subjected to alkali, acetylation, silane and enzymatic treatment, and then combined with untreated unidirectional (UD) flax fabrics to make hybrid flax bio-epoxy composites. Mechanical and environmental resistance (aging) tests were performed on the treated flax fibres. The glass transition temperature was detected at about 75 °C with little effect of treatments. Untreated composites were found to have a tensile strength of 180 MPa while no significant improvement was observed for any of the treatments, which are also not environmentally friendly. The amiopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) composites after Xenon aging, retained the tensile strength of 175 MPa and a modulus of 11.5 GPa, while untreated composites showed 35% reduction in elastic modulus.

This study was evaluated by changing the mass loss ratio and the strength maintenance ratios of the fibers after treatment. The fibers were treated with sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid solutions for different amount of times. The environmental resistance was analyzed by changing the time of treatment in NaOH and HCl solutions. The fibers’ surface corrosion morphologies were analyzed using the optical microscope. The acid resistance was much better than the alkali resistance for the basalt and slag fibers. Nevertheless, the situation for the glass fibers was different: the acid resistance was almost the same as the alkali resistance. Between the two types of aqueous environments evaluated, the alkali solution is the most aggressive to the fibers’ surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative impacts of aggressive environment on the durability of concrete materials have raised great concerns in recent years. Although the nano modification has been considered as a promising approach to enhance the durability of concrete materials with exposure to synergistic attacks from complicated aggressive environment, the investigation of the impacts of various chemicals on low dosage nano modified concrete, especially along with freeze/thaw and wet/dry cycles, is still very limited. In this study, the impacts of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium acetate (KAc) on laboratory fabricated concrete samples, which were modified with low dosage of nano SiO 2 and nano TiO 2 particles, were investigated. The mass loss, flexural strength, compressive strength, and relative dynamic modulus of elasticity were tested to evaluate the deterioration of low dosage nano modified concrete samples after exposure to F/T along with W/D cycles in KAc and NaCl solutions. The microstructure analyses demonstrate that both NaCl and KAc have negative impacts on the durability of concrete samples after F/T and W/D cycles. However, the addition of low dosage nano particles shows a distinctive enhancement of environment resistance of concrete samples. Through the microstructure analysis, three potential reasons were presented to help elucidate the deterioration mechanisms of concrete with exposure to aggressive environment. Moreover, based on the microstructure analysis, the different modification mechanisms corresponding to various nano materials were presented. This study not only shows the possibility of low dosage nano modification on the durability enhancement of concrete, but also provides potential modification mechanisms which help to design and fabricate durable concrete materials with exposure to complicated aggressive environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work presents a review of the asymptotic behaviour of the solutions of a particular class of nonlinear Leslie matrices that aim at simulating the effects of stressors on biological populations and that can serve as examples for the development of models for environmental assessment. The models account for the biotic potential growth of the population and for the environmental resistance caused by limiting factors and competition processes. The stability of the model solutions, the existence of cycles, the emergence of chaotic behaviours in the population dynamics are discussed in relation to the intensity and the duration of the stress. The conditions for the survival of populations subjected to chronic stress and for population recovery once the stress effects cease are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sponges often harbour a dense and diverse microbial community. Presently, a large discrepancy exists between the cultivable bacterial fraction from sponges and the community in its natural environment. Here, we aimed to acquire additional insights into cultivability of (previously uncultured) bacteria from three sponge species, namely Aplysina aerophoba, Corticium candelabrum and Petrosia ficiformis, by studying bacterial growth on five media in the form of 60 communities scraped from plates without antibiotics, as well as in the form of individual isolates that were grown on these media supplemented with antibiotics. We applied (double-)barcoded 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene amplicon sequencing for species identification. We show that previously uncultured bacteria can be cultivated using conventional plating and that application of antibiotics in the media can serve to capture a greater bacterial diversity. Moreover, we present criteria to address an important caveat of the plate scraping method whereby bacteria may be detected that did not actually grow. Fourteen out of 27 cultivated novel taxa (<95% identity of the 16S rRNA gene amplicon to reported species) belong to Actinobacteria, which indicates the presence of a large untapped reservoir of bioactive compounds. Three Flavobacteriaceae spp. were isolated that potentially constitute two new genera and one new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-temperature applications have demonstrated aluminide-coated nickel-base superalloys to be remarkably effective, but are reaching their service limit. Alternate materials such as refractory (e.g., W, Mo) silicide alloys and SiC composites are being considered to extend high temperature capability, but the silica surfaces on these materials require coatings for enhanced environmental resistance. This can be accomplished with a Mo-Si-B-based coating that is deposited by a spray deposition of Mo followed by a chemical vapor deposition of Si and B by pack cementation to develop an aluminoborosilica surface. Oxidation of the as-deposited (Si + B)-pack coatings proceeds with partial consumption of the initial MoSi forming amorphous silica. This Si depletion leads to formation of a B-saturated MoSi (T) phase. Reactions between the Mo and the B rich phases develop an underlying MoSiB (T) layer. The T phase saturated with B has robust oxidation resistance, and the Si depletion is prevented by the underlying diffusion barrier (T). Further, due to the natural phase transformation characteristics of the Mo-Si-B system, cracks or scratches to the outer silica and T layers can be repaired from the Si and B reservoirs of T + MoB layer to yield a self-healing characteristic. Mo-Si-B-based coatings demonstrate robust performance up to at least 1700 °C not only to the rigors of elevated temperature oxidation, but also to CMAS attack, hot corrosion attack, water vapor and thermal cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of traditional water disinfection methods against both environmental antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) is still not well understood. The study objective was to evaluate two common methods for reducing concentrations of not only culturable tetracycline-resistant bacteria but also a resistance tet (W) gene fragment that has been frequently detected in the environment. Disinfection experiments were performed by exposing tetracycline-resistant isolates to various dosages of sodium hypochlorite or ultraviolet irradiation (UV). Concentrations of resistant bacteria and the tet (W) gene fragment were determined at 0 and 24 h after disinfection using traditional plating techniques and qPCR, respectively. Both the UV and chlorine disinfection methods were highly effective in initially reducing bacterial concentrations, and the chlorine disinfection method was more effective in preventing regrowth. However, both UV and chlorine disinfection were less consistent at reducing the concentration of the tet (W) gene fragment than for culturable resistant-bacteria at the dosages studied. Results indicated that after disinfection, resistance genes may remain detectable even if culturable resistant-bacteria are not, and that environmental ARBs and ARGs may survive these commonly used methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]