Search

It is indefinite for research applications if prolonged freeze-stored serum from Schistosoma-infected patients is useful. We assessed − 20 ̊C freezing as a rapid and inexpensive method. A longitudinal cohort study with staggered follow-up periods evaluated the impact of cryopreservation on serum residues from 24 Schistosoma-infected Egyptian patients. Fresh serums were collected in March 2022 and assessed by the indirect haemagglutination test for Schistosoma immunoglobulin titrations and calorimetric assays for ALT, AST, total serum protein, Na+, K+, Ca++, and Mg++ (baseline values). Sera were then frozen and categorized into 4 groups (6 patients each) according to freezing duration; 3 months (group-1), 6 months (group-2), 9 months (group-3), and 12 months (group-4). Re-evaluation was performed on the Schistosoma immunoglobulin recovery rates and all other serum chemical factors. Baseline assessment showed increased mean values of Schistosoma immunoglobulins, ALT, AST, and proteins; yet, Ca++, Na+, and K+ were reduced. Mg++ showed normal values. Compared with the baselines, − 20 °C freezing showed significant deviations and increased percentage change in Schistosoma immunoglobulin titers, ALT, AST, K+, and Na+ at different time intervals of archiving (p-value ≤ 0.05). Evaluating serum factors interactions post-thawing revealed that AST correlated positively with ALT and Mg++ sera levels whereas Ca++ negatively correlated with Na+ and Schistosoma antibody titer. Analyzing baselines revealed that the parasite alters levels of immunoglobulin, ALT, AST, proteins, Ca++, Na+, and K+. − 20 °C cryopreservation did not guarantee the stability of all tK+hese serum parameters. In addition, some serum factors appeared to interact together. Assessing the efficacy of − 20 °C freezing on the next-generation sequencing is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flow around two identical wall-mounted trapezoidal bluff bodies, arranged in tandem, is numerically investigated at a Reynolds number of 750,000. The investigation employs Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations and the k–ω SST turbulence model. The effect due to the change of the angular orientation of the inclined faces (α) of this bluff body and the pitch distance (L/D) on hydrodynamic quantities and turbulence quantities is investigated. Furthermore, the drag coefficient and Strouhal number have also been evaluated to understand the vortex shedding and flow pattern-related phenomena. For d and intermediate types of bluff bodies, the streamwise mean velocity, cross-stream mean velocity, turbulence kinetic energy, and recirculation length decrease with the increase of α or L/D. Significant changes are also observed in the case of Strouhal number. Reduction in drag coefficient and recirculation length is observed with increased L/D at a constant α for d-type bluff bodies. The change of α and L/D also creates the formation of a periodic von Kármán vortex street at downstream of the second bluff body in the case of L/D = 7, making the flows more complex and unstable. The maximum size of the recirculation bubble occurs in the case of L/D = 10 at α = 30 deg. The investigation provides valuable insight into the complex dynamics of tandem configurations of wall-mounted bluff bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the CO2 hydrogenation activity and low‐carbon olefin selectivity of Fe‐based catalysts, a strategy involving the use of metal promoters to modulate the structure of active metal centers in catalyst preparation was proposed. The incipient wetness impregnation method was used to introduce modifying agents K and/or Co into the Fe/Al2O3 catalyst. Characterization techniques such as XRD, BET, SEM, HRTEM, H2‐TPR, XPS, CO2‐TPD, NH3‐TPD, and TG were employed to investigate the effects of the modifying agents on the dispersion, reducibility, electronic properties, and acid–base properties of active metal species. Furthermore, the influence of K and Co modification on the CO2 hydrogenation activity and low‐carbon olefin selectivity of Fe/Al2O3 catalysts was explored. The results revealed that the introduction of K generated more basic sites and electron‐rich active metal centers in the catalyst, facilitating the adsorption and activation of CO2, while suppressing the hydrogenation of olefins and the formation of methane, thus improving the selectivity towards low‐carbon olefins. Co promoter facilitated the dispersion of Fe species, exposing more active sites and enhancing the FTS reaction activity, leading to more CO being converted into C2+ hydrocarbon products. Under the synergistic effect of K and Co, the CO2 conversion activity of the Fe‐based catalyst significantly increased, achieving a CO2 conversion rate of 37%, while the selectivity towards C2‐C4= increased to 31.9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When faced with noisy time series data, significant challenges are encountered by clustering algorithms, including noise interference, temporal distortions, and irregular data patterns. In order to cope with the challenge of noisy time series data and to improve the performance of clustering algorithms, a Move-Split-Merge based Fuzzy C-Means algorithm (MSMFCM) is proposed. Firstly, dynamic wavelet basis functions as well as Median Absolute Deviation (MAD) are used to optimize the wavelets to reduce noise and highlight the actual data patterns in the original data. Secondly, a similarity matrix, constructed using the Move-Split-Merge (MSM) edit distance metric, quantitatively assesses the similarity between each pair of time series data points. Thirdly, to improve clustering efficiency, K-means + + is used to optimize the initial centers of the Fuzzy C-Means algorithm. Among twenty datasets, the performance of MSMFCM is compared with that of K-means, K-medoids, Fuzzy C-Means, K-shape, and algorithms incorporating Dynamic Time Warping and the Longest Common Subsequence. Simulation results show that MSMFCM significantly outperforms its closest competitors in the Adjusted Rand Index (ARI) and Normalized Mutual Information (NMI) evaluation indicators, with an average improvement of 26.09% for ARI and 18.86% for NMI. It means that MSMFCM has better clustering performance for noisy time series data, which will provide the application of clustering on a wider range of data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut seeds are harvested at different development stages (early and late) due to their uneven maturation. At the time of harvest, approximately 30% of the seeds are still immature, meaning they are not completely filled with compounds (e.g., oil and minerals) and exhibit reduced vigor. Hypothetically, these compounds can be detected as a "chemical fingerprinting" to classify seed maturation stages. Here, we investigated whether non-destructive techniques such as benchtop nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) can identify chemical patterns unique to mature seeds with superior vigor. Field-grown seeds were classified into early (R5 and R6) and late (R7, R8, and R9) stages. Seed weight, germination, vigor, H2O2, and MDA (oxidative stress) were analyzed. Oil, potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) were measured digitally using spectroscopy techniques. We found that: (i) oxidative stress and K levels were higher in seeds from the early stages; (ii) seed oil and Ca were proportional to high-vigor seedlings and successful plant establishment in the field; and (iii) the seed chemical composition could be identified autonomously with 87% to 100% accuracy. In conclusion, LIBS, ED-XRF, and NMR technologies can effectively screen peanut seeds with superior vigor through "chemical fingerprinting". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we analyse why the changing and growing roles of independent Central Banks now do require a reconsideration of their mandate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite significant advances in prenatal medicine, spontaneous miscarriage remains one of the most common and serious pregnancy complications, affecting an increasing number of women. Since many aspects of the pathogenesis of spontaneous miscarriage remain unexplained, the aim of this study has been to assess the involvement of the NLRP3 inflammasome as a potential causative factor. The concentrations of NLRP3, IL-1β, IL-18, and cytochrome C in the serum of patients after miscarriage were measured by means of the immunoenzymatic method. In the placental tissue, the expression of NLRP3, IL-1β, IL-18, and Caspase-1 as well as that of the classical apoptosis biomarkers Fas, FasL, Bcl-2, and Ca was evaluated by means of immunohistochemistry techniques. Additionally, in whole blood, the concentrations of elements crucial for pregnancy progression, such as Ca, K, Mg, and Na, were examined by means of the ICP-OES method. Significantly higher concentrations of NLRP3 and IL-18 were demonstrated in the serum of patients with miscarriage as compared to the control group. In the placental tissue samples, a higher expression of IL-1β, IL-18, and Caspase-1 proteins was noted in women who had experienced miscarriage as compared to the control group. At the same time, a significantly lower expression of FasL and Bcl-2 proteins as well as Ca deposits was observed in women after miscarriage as compared to those with a normal pregnancy outcome. Significantly lower concentrations of Ca and K were recorded in the blood of patients with spontaneous miscarriage as compared to pregnant women. The analysis of the results x indicated a greater involvement of the inflammasome in women with spontaneous miscarriage associated with oxidative–antioxidative imbalance than in the case of miscarriage related to NET formation. Our research has provided evidence for the involvement of the inflammasome in the process of spontaneous miscarriage and identifies a new direction for diagnostics that includes NLRP3 as a preventive element in prenatal care, particularly in light of the steadily declining number of pregnancies and the increasing number of reproductive failures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum microdontum (mcd) is a tuber-bearing relative of commercial potato. Although wild, it has many attractive traits for breeding. Previous research has shown it has exceptional ability to sequester calcium in its tubers, a trait associated with tuber disease resistance and tuber quality. We used a set of mcd from 50 populations in the US Potato Genebank (USPG) shown to encompass most of the genetic diversity in the species, two individuals from each population. Tubers were produced in pots in the USPG greenhouse in two years, and freeze dried samples tested for calcium content. Some exceptionally high Ca accumulators were identified (especially clone mcd40B1 from PI 473166). Because other minerals were measured in the same tests, the highest accumulators for K, Mg, Zn in mcd were also identified. All the stocks tested are available in vitro from USPG for additional research and breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crambe (Crambe abyssinica), belonging to the Brassicaceae family, stands out for its agricultural potential. However, little is known about the crop's potassium requirements. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to evaluate the effect of doses of potassium (K2O) on the development and production of crambe plants. Thus, an experiment was installed in a greenhouse in the municipality of Marília-SP in 2023, to verify the responses to different doses of K2O. A completely randomized design was used, with four treatments, consisting of doses of K2O (0; 50; 100 and 200 kg ha-1 K2O), and five replications, totaling 20 experimental units. The experimental units consisted of 3.5 L pots filled with ravine soil. While the dose of 50 kg ha-1 K2O was all applied at the time of sowing, the doses of 100 and 200 kg ha-1 K2O were divided between planting fertilization (50 kg ha-1) and the remainder in coverage (30 days after sowing) to minimize soil salinization. Aspire fertilizer was used as a source of K2O. Furthermore, when sowing, the formula NPK 10-46-00 + 9% S was used, applying, respectively, 22, 100 and 19.8 kg ha-1 of N, P2O5 and S. At 109 days after sowing (DAS), the green mass of leaves and the K content in the leaves were evaluated and at 122 DAS, plants at maturity, the weight and yield were evaluated. The use of different doses of K2O did not cause a significant effect on the growth parameters of crambe plants. On the other hand, productivity data showed an increasing linear response in response to K2O doses. These results demonstrate that despite their rusticity, crambe plants are capable of responding to K2O fertilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the critical role of balanced nutrition in crop productivity, the use of potash (K) and zinc (Zn) is not much practiced by Pakistani farmers. The reduced nutrient uptake and crop productivity together increase the costs associated with fertilization and revisit farmers' confidence in the efficacy and profitability of fertilizers. To address this problem, a field study was conducted in the research area of the MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, in collaboration with Engro Fertilizers Limited. The research plan consisted of five treatments, including T1 = control (without N, P, K, and Zn fertilizers), T2 = NP in practice (NP at 32-23-0 kg acre-1), T3 = recommended NP (NP at 48-34.5 kg acre-1), T4 = balanced NPK (NP +K at 48-34.5-30 kg acre-1), and T5 = balanced NPK + Zn (NPK+Zn at 48-34.5- 30 + 7.5 kg acre-1). Wheat was used as a test crop, and its growth, yield, and physiological and nutritional parameters were studied. The results indicated that NPK+Zn balanced nutrition increased plant height, spike length, photosynthetic rate, water use efficiency, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and grain yield by 13%, 15%, 44%, 60%, 63%, 39%, and 78%, respectively, compared with the control. It was found that the combined application of NP, K, and Zn improved the recovery efficiency of applied nutrients, i.e., nitrogen recovery efficiency (NRE) by 230%, phosphorus recovery efficiency (PRE) by 136%, potassium recovery efficiency (KRE) by 135%, and zinc recovery efficiency (ZnRE) by 136% compared to NP-alone application. Agronomic use efficiency of applied fertilizers, such as potassium agronomic use efficiency (KAUE) by 71%, phosphorus agronomic use efficiency (PAUE) by 72%, nitrogen agronomic use efficiency (NAUE) by 70%, and zinc agronomic use efficiency (ZnAUE) by 72%, was observed compared to NP-alone application. The results showed that NPUE, PPUE, NPUE, and ZnPUE were reduced by 5%, 3%, 3%, and 5%, respectively, compared to NP-alone application. Our findings suggest that K and Zn should be made an essential part of wheat nutrition management for higher yield and better quality of produce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A μ-way (v,k,t) trade T of volume m consists of μ pairwise disjoint collections Ti,...,Tμ, each of m blocks of size k such that for every t-subset of a v-set V, the number of blocks containing this t-subset is the same in each Ti for 1 ≤ i ≤ μ. If any t-subset of the v-set V occurs at most once in each Ti for 1 ≤ i ≤ μ, then T is called a μ-way (v, k, t) Steiner trade. In 2016, it was proved that there exists a 3-way (v, k, 2) Steiner trade of volume m when 12(k - 1) ≤ m for each k. Here we improve the lower bound to 8(k - 1) for even k, by using a recursive construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thyroid hormone deficiency, with a variety of causes and symptoms, is known as hypothyroidism. Morbidity and mortality are increased by untreated hypothyroidism. Midkine is highly expressed during embryogenesis and governs cell proliferation, angiogenesis, anti-apoptotic actions, survival, and migration, though it is commonly low in maturity. Studies demonstrate that MK expression is highly elevated in thyroid cancers and connected to pathological and clinical characteristics, This study evaluates the relationship of MK with thyroid hormone levels in newly diagnosed hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism compared with healthy. a case-control study was conducted For the period from November 2022 to January 2023. The 120 participants in the current study, who were Baghdad residents between the ages of)20-65(, were divided into three groups: 30 patients were newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism, and 30 patients had subclinical hypothyroidism. In contrast with 60 healthy subjects (control group). Measurements of S.TSH, Total S.T3, and Total S.T4 parameters. were measured on all groups and the results were compared between them by system automatically and (midkine) by ELISA and whole Electrolytes (Na, k, cl) were measured using a Manual spectrophotometer (colorimetric). The Results The midkine levels were measured and compared between the control group with the newly diagnosed hypothyroidism group, and the subclinical hypothyroidism group. There was a difference, but this difference did not reach statistical significance, there was a trend towards higher midkine levels in the NDH group compared to the SCH groups and control (p=0.07). while Statistical analysis indicated a significant difference in the midkine levels were measured and compared between the control group and the newly diagnosed hypothyroidism group (p<0.04). As for Age, weight, height and BMI However, these results were not statistically significant. (The probability value was greater than 0.05). The control group had a mean sodium level of 145.32 ±6.90, the NDH group had a mean sodium level of 144.43 ±6.30, and the SCH group had a mean sodium level of 143.83 ±7.97. Statistical analysis did not show a significant difference in sodium levels among the groups p=0.62. while observing Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in potassium levels among the groups (p<0.001). A pairwise comparison showed that the control group had higher potassium levels compared to both the NDH and SCH groups (p<0.001). As for chloride, it was noted Statistical analysis indicated a significant difference in chloride levels among the groups (p=0.01). The pairwise comparison revealed that the SCH group had significantly lower chloride levels compared to both the control and NDH groups (p<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We derive new upper bounds for the total variation distance between compound Poisson distributions as well as between a random sum and a compound Poisson distribution, and as a result we also obtain upper bounds for the total variation distance between compound Poisson distributions and a sum of independent random variables. These bounds are generalizations and refinements of some well-known bounds in the literature. We also derive upper bounds for the total variation distance between negative binomial distributions of order k and between the negative binomial distributions of order k and compound Poisson distributions. Upper bounds for the total variation distances between the number of success runs of length k in binary Markovian trials and its limiting distributions for several enumeration schemes, are also given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidermal basement membrane, a tightly packed network of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, is a source of physical, chemical, and biological factors required for the structural and functional homeostasis of the epidermis. Variations within the ECM create distinct environments, which can affect the property of cells in the basal layer of the epidermis and subsequently affect keratinocyte differentiation and stratification. Very little attention has been paid to mimicking basement membrane in organotypic cultures. In this study, using parameters outlined in a consensus on the quality standard of organotypic models suitable for dermatological research, we have evaluated three basement membrane substitutes. We compared fibronectin with three complex three-dimensional matrices: Matrigel, decellularized dermal fibroblast‒produced and ‒assembled ECM, and a dry human amniotic membrane. Our results suggest that Matrigel is not a suitable substrate for human epidermal equivalent culture, whereas the two other complex three-dimensional substitutes, decellularized dermal fibroblast‒produced and ‒assembled ECM and dry human amniotic membrane, were superior to single layer fibronectin coating. Human epidermal equivalents cultured on either decellularized dermal fibroblast‒produced and ‒assembled ECM or on dry human amniotic membrane generated hemidesmosomes, whereas those on fibronectin did not. In addition, human epidermal equivalent cultured on decellularized dermal fibroblast‒produced and ‒assembled ECM and on dry human amniotic membrane can be maintained in culture 4 days longer than human epidermal equivalent cultured on fibronectin without compromising the barrier function.

The seabird meta-population viability model (mPVA) uses a generalized approach to project abundance and quasi-extinction risk for 102 seabird species under various conservation scenarios. The mPVA is a stage-structured projection matrix that tracks abundance of multiple populations linked by dispersal, accounting for breeding island characteristics and spatial distribution. Data are derived from published studies, grey literature, and expert review (with over 500 contributions). Invasive species impacts were generalized to stage-specific vital rates by fitting a Bayesian state-space model to trend data from Islands where invasive removals had occurred, while accounting for characteristics of seabird biology, breeding islands and invasive species. Survival rates were estimated using a competing hazards formulation to account for impacts of multiple threats, while also allowing for environmental and demographic stochasticity, density dependence and parameter uncertainty.•The mPVA provides resource managers with a tool to quantitatively assess potential benefits of alternative management actions, for multiple species•The mPVA compares projected abundance and quasi-extinction risk under current conditions (no intervention) and various conservation scenarios, including removal of invasive species from specified breeding islands, translocation or reintroduction of individuals to an island of specified location and size, and at-sea mortality amelioration via reduction in annual at-sea deaths.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of four types of slow-release fertilizers on the stoichiometric ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and biomass of Fraxinus malacophylla seedlings and to screen for the optimal fertilization amount for seedling growth. Four fertilization rates (0, 1, 2, and 4 kg m³) were employed as treatment for one-year-old F. malacophylla seedlings, with no fertilization (CK) as the control. Biomass, growth, and N, P, and K contents of each organ were measured, and the accumulation of N, P, and K was calculated. Curve fitting was performed to analyze the relationship between N, P, and K accumulation in various organs and stoichiometric ratio and biomass. The results showed that the best nutrient accumulation and biomass of F. malacophylla seedlings were obtained under the dosage of 1 kg m-3 slow-release fertilizer, and significantly higher than those of the control group. The biomass of each organ and the accumulation of N, P, and K was in this order as follows: leaf>root>stem, and the accumulation of nutrients in each organ and single plant was in this order; N>K>P. A highly significant positive correlation (P<0.01) was observed between the accumulation of N, P, and K in various organs and biomass of F. malacophylla seedlings. N: P and K: P negatively correlated with biomass, whereas N: K significantly positively correlated with biomass (P<0.05). The N: P values of all organs of F. malacophylla seedlings were <14; plant growth was limited by elemental N, N: K<2.10, and K P>3.40; and plant growth was not influenced by K. In summary, a dosage of 1 kg m-3 slow-release fertilizer is beneficial for the growth of F. malacophylla seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseño y Comunicación is the property of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseno y Comunicacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The ocean biological pump is the mechanism by which carbon and nutrients are transported to depth. As such, the biological pump is critical in the partitioning of carbon dioxide between the ocean and atmosphere, and the rate at which that carbon can be sequestered through burial in marine sediments. How the structure and function of planktic ecosystems in the ocean govern the strength and efficiency of the biological pump and its resilience to disruption are poorly understood. The aftermath of the impact at the Cretaceous/Palaeogene (K/Pg) boundary provides an ideal opportunity to address these questions as both the biological pump and marine plankton size and diversity were fundamentally disrupted. The excellent fossil record of planktic foraminifera as indicators of pelagic-biotic recovery combined with carbon isotope records tracing biological pump behaviour, show that the recovery of ecological traits (diversity, size and photosymbiosis) occurred much later (approx. 4.3 Ma) than biological pump recovery (approx. 1.8 Ma). We interpret this decoupling of diversity and the biological pump as an indication that ecosystem function had sufficiently recovered to drive an effective biological pump, at least regionally in the South Atlantic.

Black fungi are a group of melanotic microfungi characterized by remarkable polyextremotolerance. Due to a broad ecological plasticity and adaptations at the cellular level, it is predicted that they may survive in a variety of extreme environments, including harsh niches on Earth and Mars, and in outer space. However, the molecular mechanisms aiding survival, especially in space, are yet to be fully elucidated. Based on these premises, the rock-inhabiting black fungus Knufia chersonesos (Wt) and its non-melanized mutant (Mut) were exposed to simulated microgravity-one of the prevalent features characterizing space conditions-by growing the cultures in high-aspect-ratio vessels (HARVs). Qualitative and quantitative proteomic analyses were performed on the mycelia and supernatant of culture medium (secretome) to assess alterations in cell physiology in response to low-shear simulated microgravity (LSSMG) and to ultimately evaluate the role of cell-wall melanization in stress survival. Differential expression was observed for proteins involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolic processes, transport, and ribosome biogenesis and translation via ribosomal translational machinery. However, no evidence of significant activation of stress components or starvation response was detected, except for the scytalone dehydratase, enzyme involved in the synthesis of dihydroxynaphthalene (DNH) melanin, which was found to be upregulated in the secretome of the wild type and downregulated in the mutant. Differences in protein modulation were observed between K. chersonesos Wt and Mut, with several proteins being downregulated under LSSMG in the Mut when compared to the Wt. Lastly, no major morphological alterations were observed following exposure to LSSMG. Similarly, the strains' survivability was not negatively affected. This study is the first to characterize the response to simulated microgravity in black fungi, which might have implications on future astrobiological missions.

This study investigates the impact of fertilizer application on nutrient utilization and economic traits of Camellia oleifera with the aim of enhancing its quality and yield while providing guidance for precise fertilization. We conducted three fertilization tests: no fertilization(CK), application of plant-derived bio-organic fertilizer(BOF), and application of an organic plant compound fertilizer(OCF). We monitored C. oleifera leaves throughout its growth cycle and collected mature fruit samples. Soil fertility improved in the order of OCF>BOF>CK, with increased levels of available potassium(AK), available phosphorus(AP), and hydrolyzed nitrogen(AN), among other nutrients. The nutrient requirements of C. oleifera varied throughout its growth stages. For instance, N, K, Ca, Mg and Fe were in higher demand during the extraction stage, while N, P, and B were required more during fruit expansion and lipid synthesis, Cu, Zn, and B needs were higher during the flowering stage. The OCF treatment showed higher rates of N, P, K, Cu, Fe, and Zn absorption and utilization from fertilizers. BOF showed higher rates of N, P, K contributing to seed nutrient, while Ca, Mn, Fe and Zn showed the OCF treatment higher. Leaf nutrient content correlated significantly with N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and Mn levels in the soil(P<0.05), but not with trace elements such as Cu, Fe, Zn, B, and Se. Both BOF and OCF treatments increased fruit diameter, weight, and yield. BOF showed a 24.57% and 70.36% increase in diameter and weight, while OCF showed a 25.77% and 51.22% increase. The yield increased by 83.93% with BOF and 166.07% with OCF. To optimize results, we recommend adding N, K, Ca, and Mg during the germination period, N, P and B during the oil synthesis period, and spraying Cu, Zn, and B during full bloom. The BOF and OCF significantly increased the yield of C. oleifera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finite element method (FEM) using Ansys program (APDL) was used in this study to evaluate the idea of tuned vibration absorbers applied to a beam construction for the undamped system. The ideal location for the Dynamic Vibration Absorbers (DVAs) and their numbers to be installed on the fixed-fixed beam in order to lessen beam vibration was also investigated. The DVA was coupled to the fixed-fixed beam vibration node for three vibration modes. The natural frequency and frequency response of the beam were calculated in this study using modal and harmonic analysis, respectively. The vibrational characteristics of the F-F beam with and without DVAs were presented. The simulation results demonstrated that the vibration amplitude decreases in the presence of the DVAs and its reduction depends on the locations of the DVAs and its number. In addition, the attached DVAs affect the structural beam vibration. Depending on the modes of vibration, the vibrational peak is the optimal place to attach DVA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine cutaneous mast cell tumours (CCMCTs) are common in dogs and exhibit many unpredictable behaviors. This study aimed to encourage pathology laboratories in developing countries to routinely assess prognosis by applying commonly used histopathological grading systems and immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers. We performed histological grading according to both the Patnaik and Kiupel systems, determined the mitotic count (MC) and carried out IHC for the detection of Ki67, Bax, Bcl-2 and KIT in 54 CCMCT cases. MC was associated with both grading systems in terms of survival following diagnosis and prognostic factors differed among cases categorized by the cut-off value of 5. KIT patterns were associated with grading systems and MC. The cohort with pattern II had a lower survival rate than those with patterns I and III. Ki67 was associated with survival when evaluated over the cut-off value of 0.018. Bax expression was associated with both grading systems. Median survival time was longer in patients with lower Bax expression level. Immunohistochemical detection of KIT, Ki67 and Bax improves histopathology in predicting the prognosis. If IHC is unavailable, reports regarding MC and values from both grading systems are the most effective, convenient and cost-effective way to provide the most reliable prognostic data and guidance for the clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let D be a nontrivial 3-(v, k, 1) design admitting a block-transitive group G of automorphisms. A recent work of Gan and the second author asserts that G is either affine or almost simple. In this paper, it is proved that if G is almost simple with socle an alternating group, then D is the unique 3-(10, 4, 1) design, and G = PGL (2 , 9) , M 10 or Aut (A 6) = S 6 : Z 2 , and G is flag-transitive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the experiment was to assess the effects of various organic materials on Dactylis glomerata yield, on the content of selected macroelements (K, Ca and Mg) and on K:Ca, K:Mg and K:(Ca + Mg) ratios. As a valuable forage plant, Dactylis glomerata (cocksfoot grass) is a common grass in Poland both in grassland and in arable fields. Its rapid spring growth and its resistance to drought, low temperatures, but also to frequent mowing and pests, makes it a common species in meadows, pastures and grassland, both permanent and alternating. In order to achieve the research goal, a three-year pot experiment was established in a greenhouse. The experiment was conducted in a completely random design, in four replications. In the autumn before the experiment, soil was mixed with organic materials (chicken manure, mushroom substrate and rye straw) and put into pots. To selected units, an additional amount of mineral N was applied in the first year and NPK fertilizers in consecutive years. Mineral fertilizers were applied at the beginning of the growing period. Compared to control, the application of mineral and organic fertilizers resulted in a significant increase in Dactylis glomerata yield. The highest biomass yield (average over the growing periods) was recorded on the unit treated with manure, straw and mineral fertilizers (27.64 g·pot-1) and on the one with mushroom substrate applied together with rye straw and mineral fertilizers (26.47 g·pot-1). The K:(Ca+Mg) ratio in the forage was normal and averaged 0.933, but mineral fertilizers, compared to other treatments, narrowed it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese-based catalysts supported by TiO 2 (MnO 2 /TiO 2) show good deNO x performance at low temperature. However, the microscopic impact mechanism of poisonous substances such as K and SO 2 on the deNO x of the MnO 2 /TiO 2 catalyst is a grey area. In this work, the poisoning mechanism of K and SO 2 coexistence on the deNO x of the MnO 2 /TiO 2 catalyst was explored by using a density functional theory combined with experimental methods. SO 2 has low adsorption performance on the MnO 2 /TiO 2 (001) surface, while it can be oxidized to form SO 3 , and it will react with the catalyst to form sulfates. K poisoning makes NH 3 and NO molecules more difficult to be adsorbed on the MnO 2 /TiO 2 (001) surface. However, when SO 2 is introduced on the catalyst surface with K poisoning, it can interact with K and change the charge transfer from K to the catalyst surface, alleviating the K poisoning of the catalyst. These results contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of K and SO 2 co-poisoning on the deNO x of Mn-based catalysts at a microscopic level, and provide guidance for designing Mn-based catalysts with high anti-poisoning ability. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we present two new families of 2- (v , k , λ) designs with a flag-transitive and point-primitive automorphism group of product action type. More surprisingly, one of them is still a family of 2- (v , k , λ) designs with a flag-transitive and point-imprimitive automorphism group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ag-Al 2 O 3 - m and Ag-K-Al 2 O 3 - m were fabricated by a one-pot technique following an evaporation-induced self-assembly method. • Ag-3 K-Al 2 O 3 showed excellent catalytic performance and water-resistance for HCHO oxidation. • The high catalytic activity was due to abundant surface active oxygen species and surface –OH. • The HCHO oxidation over Ag-Al 2 O 3 - m and Ag-K-Al 2 O 3 - m followed the same mechanism. Mesoporous Ag-Al 2 O 3 - m and Ag-K-Al 2 O 3 - m catalysts were fabricated by a one-pot technique based on an evaporation-induced self-assembly method. Among them, Ag-3 K-Al 2 O 3 - m exhibited the highest activity, achieving 100 % HCHO conversion at 40 °C. The catalyst's performance was notably impacted by RH conditions, which showed improved activity at 30 % RH, due to the formation of active –OH groups. As the K loading increased, the aggregation of Ag particles gradually occurred. According to DFT computation, the presence of K promoted the adsorption and activation of HCHO, O 2 and H 2 O on the catalyst surface. The superior low-temperature reducibility, adequate surface active oxygen and surface –OH groups were identified as key roles to the enhanced catalytic performance of Ag-K-Al 2 O 3 - m. Both Ag-Al 2 O 3 - m and Ag-K-Al 2 O 3 - m operated through the same oxidation mechanism for HCHO oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the structural, optical, and thermoelectric properties of non-centrosymmetric layered selenite and tellurite compounds KSb 3 Se 2 O 12 , RbSb 3 Se 2 O 12 , CsSb 3 Se 2 O 12 , TlSb 3 Se 2 O 12 , KSb 3 Te 2 O 12 , RbSb 3 Te 2 O 12 , CsSb 3 Te 2 O 12 , TlSb 3 Te 2 O 12 to assess their potential for sustainable and renewable energy technologies. The selenite and tellurite compounds feature distinct non-centrosymmetric layered crystal structures, which are key to their unique optical and electronic properties. The materials display a layered structure without a center of symmetry, characterized by distinct atomic arrangements, and their band gaps vary depending on the constituent elements. For selenites, band gaps range from 2.97 eV to 3.19 eV, while for tellurites, they range from 2.75 eV to 3.02 eV, indicate their suitability for indirect semiconducting applications. The investigated materials exhibit high absorbance in the ultraviolet region, suggesting they are promising for solar cell applications. The energy loss function peaks at 14 eV, indicating minimal optical loss in the infrared and visible spectra. The static dielectric constants ε 1 (0) were calculated, showing variations based on the elemental composition. The response of ε 2 (ω) demonstrates strong interactions in the ultraviolet region, corresponding to electronic transitions from the valence to the conduction bands. Thermoelectric properties, evaluated with the BoltzTrap code using transport theory. The Seebeck coefficient of p-type semiconductors typically increases with temperature, but TlSb 3 Se 2 O 12 shows an even greater increase, suggesting enhanced thermoelectric properties. Both selenites and tellurites have rising electrical conductivities, with ASb 3 Se 2 O 12 peaking at 800 K. The Power Factor improves with temperature, reaching a peak for TlSb 3 Se 2 O 12. These compounds exhibit favorable electrical conductivity and power factor, suggesting potential applications in thermoelectric systems. The figure of merit (ZT) values spanning from 0.90 to 1.51, with a maximum ZT value of 1.41 at 800 K, TlSb 3 Se 2 O 12 shows great potential for high-temperature thermoelectric applications. These findings advance the understanding of non-centrosymmetric oxide materials and provide valuable insights for developing advanced materials for energy technologies. • Electronic structure analyses reveal band gaps ranging from 2.97 to 3.19 eV for selenites and 2.75–3.02 eV for tellurites. • The calculated optical band gaps align well with experimental measurements, validating our computational results. • Thermoelectric properties shows p-type behavior. • The ZT values, reaching maximum values of 1.41 for selenites and 1.51 for tellurites at 800 K. • Materials exhibit promising attributes for renewable energy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnitude and direction of carbon cycle feedbacks under climate warming remain uncertain due to insufficient knowledge about the temperature sensitivities of soil microbial processes. Enzymatic rates could increase at higher temperatures, but this response could change over time if soil microbes adapt to warming. We used the Arrhenius relationship, biochemical transition state theory, and thermal physiology theory to predict the responses of extracellular enzyme Vmax and Km to temperature. Based on these concepts, we hypothesized that Vmax and Km would correlate positively with each other and show positive temperature sensitivities. For enzymes from warmer environments, we expected to find lower Vmax , Km , and Km temperature sensitivity but higher Vmax temperature sensitivity. We tested these hypotheses with isolates of the filamentous fungus Neurospora discreta collected from around the globe and with decomposing leaf litter from a warming experiment in Alaskan boreal forest. For Neurospora extracellular enzymes, Vmax Q10 ranged from 1.48 to 2.25, and Km Q10 ranged from 0.71 to 2.80. In agreement with theory, Vmax and Km were positively correlated for some enzymes, and Vmax declined under experimental warming in Alaskan litter. However, the temperature sensitivities of Vmax and Km did not vary as expected with warming. We also found no relationship between temperature sensitivity of Vmax or Km and mean annual temperature of the isolation site for Neurospora strains. Declining Vmax in the Alaskan warming treatment implies a short-term negative feedback to climate change, but the Neurospora results suggest that climate-driven changes in plant inputs and soil properties are important controls on enzyme kinetics in the long term. Our empirical data on enzyme Vmax , Km , and temperature sensitivities should be useful for parameterizing existing biogeochemical models, but they reveal a need to develop new theory on thermal adaptation mechanisms.

This article presents a ground motion database for California and its close surroundings (i.e. areas near the border in Nevada, Oregon, and Arizona) from earthquakes between 1999 and 2021. This data set includes events with magnitudes larger than 3.2 and focal depths less than 40 km, and it is available on DesignSafe. Ground motion records and events included in this data set are collected from 65 different seismic networks and processed with an automated software tool called gmprocess, which was developed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Path measures such as rupture distance and epicentral distance are computed, 5%-damped spectral accelerations, duration metrics, and other ground motion intensity measures (IMs) are provided for records that pass the quality assurance check performed by the gmprocess toolkit. The quality of processed ground motions is also screened by using outlier detection algorithms and a multiple wave-train arrivals identification algorithm. In addition, site metadata are provided, including wave velocity information (from proxy-based time-averaged shear-wave velocity for the top 30 m, Vs30, and from Pand S-wave measured velocity profiles when available), predominant frequency measured from microtremor-based horizontal-to-vertical ratios (mHVSR), and sitespecific (high-frequency spectral decay) k0 values computed from multiple ground motions recorded at sites when available. The final database contains 287,804 threecomponent ground motions recorded at 3709 stations from 2641 earthquakes with magnitudes and distances ranging from 3.2 to 7.2 and 0.15 to 335 km, respectively. This ground motion database contributes to advancing both engineering seismology studies and earthquake engineering applications in shallow crustal tectonic settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth promotion using beneficial bacteria is an eco-friendly approach to meet the worldwide need for raising crop yields. This research was done in a greenhouse during 2017 and 2018 seasons to investigate the effect of bacterial biofertilization using three strains, AP-28 of Pseudomonas koreensis, AP-29 of Ralstonia pickettii, and AP-51 of Bacillus cereus on kale plants. Seeds of kale plants were soaked in bacterial solutions for three hours and compared with untreated seeds. Our results exhibited that the highest significant differences in vegetative growth, including plant length (16.76 and 15 cm), leaf number (14.33 and 14.00), and leaf area (100.52 and 99.73 cm2) were obtained from AP-51 treatment compared with control (11.33 and 10.67 cm), (10 and 11.67) and (100.52 and 99.73 cm2) in both seasons, respectively. In both seasons, seed treatment with AP-51 produced the highest significant ascorbic acid (1.373 and 1.309 mg/g) compared with control (6.82 and 8.23 mg/100g, respectively). The highest phenolic contents in both seasons were produced by AP-51 (1.83 and 2.10 mg/g) compared to untreated plants (1.31 and 1.46 mg/g, respectively). AP-51 recorded the highest yield (95.81 and 94.75 g/plant) compared with control (72.92 and 82.76 g/plant) in both seasons, respectively. Macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), as well as microelements (Fe, Cu, and Zn), were examined. The treatment with plant growth-promoting bacteria has been recognized as an environmentally sustainable approach to reduce the inputs of chemical fertilizers and to increase crop productivity, phytochemical composition, and mineral contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) pollution in the soil is a serious environmental issue worldwide. Phytoextraction of Cd-polluted soil is a cost-effective, sustainable and environmentally-friendly strategy. Agricultural fertilizer management is beneficial for promoting the Cd phytoremediation efficiency. Potassium (K) is the nutrient required in the largest amount cation by plants. Sweet sorghum exhibits a substantial phytoremediation potential of Cd-polluted soil. Clarifying the mechanism of K-mediated Cd accumulation in sweet sorghum is imperative. Sweet sorghum plants were grown hydroponically with an extra K supply in the presence or absence of Cd treatment. An extra K application significantly increased plant growth under non-Cd addition, while K lost the profitable effect under Cd stress. K supplementation remarkably enhanced Cd concentrations and Cd accumulation in shoots and roots of sweet sorghum. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that zinc ion transport, cysteine and methionine metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathways might contribute to the increased Cd accumulation as affected by an extra K supply. Furthermore, SbZIP9 , SbSTP8 , SbYS1 , SbMAG and SbFOMT-like were targeted as they closely correlated with both plant growth and Cd stress in sweet sorghum. SbFOMT-like showed an independent pathway, while SbZIP9 , SbSTP8 , SbYS1 and SbMAG displayed positive correlations mutually. Notably, SbZIP9 and SbFOMT-like were highly expressed when compared with other target genes. Taken together, SbZIP9 and SbFOMT-like were upregulated and downregulated by an extra K supply under Cd stress, suggesting that SbZIP9 and SbFOMT-like enhances and declines Cd accumulation as regulated by K addition in sweet sorghum respectively. [Display omitted] • K enhances Cd concentrations and accumulation in sweet sorghum. • SbZIP9 might play a major role in increasing Cd accumulation. • SbFOMT-like might play a major role in decreasing Cd accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO preferential oxidation reaction (CO-PROX) can effectively eliminate CO in H 2 rich atmosphere to avoid CO poison the Pt anode of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC). To match the operation temperature window for PEMFC, PtCo nanoparticles supported on K modified Al 2 O 3 (PtCo/K–Al 2 O 3) were prepared to promote CO-PROX activity. The addition of K species weakened the interaction between PtCo nanoparticle and support, which improved the dispersion of Pt particles and redox property of PtCo/Al 2 O 3. It also facilitated the formation of Pt 3 Co species and active surface −OH groups, which were involved in CO-PROX reaction. According to in situ DRIFTS spectra, HCO 3 − and HCOO− were intermediates of PtCo/K–Al 2 O 3 catalyzed CO-PROX at low temperature and high temperature, respectively. Thus, the addition of 1 wt% K to PtCo/Al 2 O 3 (PtCo/1K–Al 2 O 3) could completely oxidize CO in the temperature range of 127–230 °C with O 2 selectivity at 50%. The 100% CO conversion temperature window of PtCo/1K–Al 2 O 3 is expanded by 100 °C in comparison of PtCo/Al 2 O 3. [Display omitted] • Compared with PtCo/Al 2 O 3 , CO-PROX temperature window of PtCo/K–Al 2 O 3 expanded 100 °C. • Adding K promoted the formation of Pt 3 Co and surface −OH groups. • The surface −OH groups involved and changed the reaction pathway of CO oxidation. • HCO 3 − and HCOO− were intermediates over PtCo/K–Al 2 O 3 at different temperature zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The desired goal of this investigation was to study the effect of eight micronutrients foliar application [Zn, Fe, Mn, Zn + Fe, Zn + Mn, Fe + Mn, Zn + Fe + Mn and control (tap water)] and three potassium fertilizer levels (check, 24 and 48 kg K2O/fad.) on yield, their attributes and seed quality of sesame grown in sandy soil. The obtained results revealed that, foliar application of Zn + Fe + Mn led to a significant increase in most yield attributes, seed and oil yields/fad., as well as seed oil % during both seasons. Plant height, fruiting zone length, No. capsules per plant, No. and weight of seeds per capsule, weight of seeds per plant and 1000-seed weight, seed and oil yields/fad., as well as, seed oil % exhibited significant increase due to raising K level up to 48 kg K2O/fad. It could be concluded that foliar application of Zn + Mn or Zn + Fe + Mn along with 48 kg K2O/fad., produced the highest sesame seed and oil yields/fad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on different compounds of elements, such as Na, K, Ca, Mg, Al, Fe, and Mn, contributes to our understanding of the genesis of poorly studied soils of northern coasts. The analysis has been carried out of the composition of various forms of compounds. To determine total element contents, a mixture of concentrated HF, HClO4, and HCl was used; acid-soluble forms were extracted with a mixture of concentrated HNO3 and H2O2; and acetate ammonium buffer solution was used to determine mobile forms. It is shown that the amount elements added to the tidal marsh zone is largely determined by the volume and composition of solids entering with seawater and with runoff from coastal catchments. For mineral soil horizons, a close correlation is found between the contents of clay fraction and exchangeable forms of K, Mg, and Al (R2 = 0.4–0.5), as well as between the contents of clay and highly mobile forms of these elements and Fe (R2 = 0.6–0.8). The distribution of elements along the profile of zonal soils on the highest positions of the relief is significantly influenced by the permafrost conditions and the aerial transfer of salts with seawater drops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the possibility of environmental factors controll, studying the physiological effects of salinity under in vitro conditions can be a good solution for salinity tolerant cultivars selection. This experiment was conducted as factorial based on complete randomized design with four replications. Factors included sodium chloride concentrations (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 g.l-1 ) and three potato cultivars (Agria, Fontane and Sante). Results showed that the response of the studied cultivars to different salinity levels was different. In general, salinity stress reduced seedling, stem and root dry weights, stem length, number of nodes and photosynthetic pigments. Leaf area and stem diameter showed different responses to different levels of stress. In response to the salt concentration increase, Sodium and potassium concentrations increased in the stem but the same was not happened in leaves. Among the studied cultivars and despite having the highest level of sodium in stems and leaves under stress conditions, Sante and Agria, tolerated higher salinity than Fontane. It seems that the ability to absorb salt and transfer it to the plant can play an important role in salinity tolerance under in vitro conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]