Search

ABSTRACT ChatGPT has garnered significant interest for its potential educational benefits, particularly in aiding English as a foreign language (EFL) learners to develop language skills. This study aims to explore how various internal and external factors, as outlined in the proposed extended technology acceptance model (TAM), influence EFL learners’ acceptance and use of ChatGPT to enhance their oral English. Drawing on the extended TAM questionnaires from 212 Chinese EFL learners and semi‐structured interviews with 12 participants, the research underscores that a positive attitude toward ChatGPT significantly influences learners’ intention to adopt ChatGPT for English‐speaking practice. Moreover, facilitating conditions significantly predict the perceived ease of use. The qualitative results shed light on ChatGPT's effectiveness and convenience in developing English‐speaking skills, its potential to simulate IELTS exams and situational dialogues, and identifying certain scenario‐specific limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lachninae (Insecta: Aphididae) represent a fascinating group of aphids that are traditionally divided into five tribes. Among these, members of the tribe Tuberolachnini exhibit remarkable morphological and biological diversity. One genus of this group, Miyalachnus, known from Japan, is characterized by unique features. Our study aimed to re-examine the tribal classification within Lachninae, with a focus on the diverse Tuberolachnini and the previously understudied genera Miyalachnus and Sinolachnus. Results: We conducted a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis using four genes (COI, COII, CytB, and EF1α), employing both maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods on a combined dataset. Our findings challenge the monophyly of Tuberolachnini. The analyses revealed that Miyalachnus and Sinolachnus are phylogenetically distinct from the core Tuberolachnini genera (Nippolachnus, Pyrolachnus, and Tuberolachnus), instead showing a closer relationship with Tramini. Specifically, the Miyalachnus clade forms a sister clade to the clade containing Sinolachnus and Tramini. Conclusions: On the basis of these molecular results, corroborated by morphological evidence, we propose to erect a new tribe within the Lachninae-Miyalachnini trib. nov. with Miyalachnus as the type genus. We also provide updated taxonomic diagnoses for the remaining tribes and discuss their relationships as well as distinguishing features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scalp hair is a key feature of humans and its variability has been the subject of a broad range of studies. A small subset of these studies has focused on geometric quantification of human scalp hair fibres, however the use of race‐ and ethnicity‐based classification systems makes it challenging to draw objective conclusions about fibre variability. Furthermore, sample preparation techniques for micro‐imaging studies often alter the original form of hair fibres. This study sought to determine which of the commonly reported descriptors could be resolved using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) for fibres of varying curl. Images obtained from micro‐CT were used to reconstruct three‐dimensional images that were then analysed. The study also explored the capabilities and limitations of micro‐CT as an imaging modality by comparing and cross‐validating findings with those obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser micrometry. The former deals with surface imaging while the latter deals with cross‐sectional measurements. Micro‐CT was found to be highly effective at resolving cross‐sectional ellipsoidal parameters, but performed more poorly than SEM in reconstructing surface level details at a 2 μm$\umu\text{m}$ resolution. The technique was, however, able to reveal the presence of the medulla in type VI (high curl) hair fibres. When compared with high curl fibres, greater intra‐fibre variability was observed for the low and medium curl fibres, highlighting the importance more objective classification systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scanning electron microscopy has revealed variation in the ultrastructure of distinctive isolated pores in or near the central area of raphid diatoms, with different types of pores being restricted to phylogenetic groups. Thus, the widespread use of the term stigma for all such pores not only hides the structural diversity but also obscures the phylogenetic distribution of the different types. This paper provides images of the different types of isolated pores, particularly refining the discrimination of variants within the Cymbellales, and reveals some interesting ecological patterns. Revised definitions of stigmata and stigmoids are proposed, together with the recognition and definition of another type of stigmoid. The restricted distribution of more precisely defined pore types shows the importance of consistent use of terminology and its relevance to phylogenetic studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cosmetic-tattoo industry is evolving every year and the microstructures of the equipment have the great potential for semi-permanent makeup applications. Present paper explores the materials and microparticles of semi-permanent makeup tattoo needles. The surface of the five-round-shader tattoo needle used in semi-permanent makeup process was examined by scanning electron microscopy, and its elemental composition was analyzed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The comparison of five-round-shader needles have undergone thorough observation: original five-round-shader needle and distorted five-round-shader needle. The diameter of the sharp and rounded needle tip was measured at approximately 6.80 μm, while the deformed needle tip was approximately 16 μm thick, about 2.5 times thicker than the rounded needle tip. Many rosette-shaped lead (Pb) particles and irregular clusters adhere to the welded areas and closely adjacent needle shaft surfaces. The lead particles have a diameter ranging from 4 μm to 5 μm and exhibit a grid-like structure with a consistent thickness of plate-like shape. The distorted structure of Pb in rosette-shaped formations is shown to have originated from the grinding and polishing processes during needle manufacturing. To produce sterilized tattoo needles, high-quality tattoo needle inspection processes are necessary to remove any unhygienic substances adhering to the needle surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Uricase is a bio-drug used to reduce urate accumulation in gout disease. Thus, there is a continuous demand for screening soil samples derived from a variety of different sources in order to isolate a strain that possesses a high potential for producing uricase. Methods: Streptomyces sp. strain NEAE-5 demonstrated a significant capacity for uricase production was identified based on the physiological, morphological and biochemical characteristics, as well as 16S rDNA sequencing analysis. Using a Plackett–Burman statistical design, the impact of eighteen process factors on uricase production by Streptomyces griseorubens strain NEAE-5 was investigated. Using central composite design, the most important variables that had a favourable positive impact on uricase production by Streptomyces griseorubens strain NEAE-5 were further optimized. Results: It is clear that the morphological and chemotaxonomic features of Streptomyces sp. strain NEAE-5 are typical for the Streptomyces genus. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Streptomyces sp. strain NEAE-5 belongs to the genus Streptomyces and closely related to Streptomyces griseorubens which it has a 95–96% identity in 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Accordingly, the strain is proposed to be identified as Streptomyces griseorubens strain NEAE-5. The three factors that had the significant positive impacts on uricase production were uric acid, hypoxanthine, and yeast extract. As a result, the best conditions for achieving the highest experimental uricase production by Streptomyces griseorubens strain NEAE-5 after central composite design were (g/L): uric acid 6.96, glycerol 5, hypoxanthine 5.51, MgSO4.7H2O 0.1, KNO3 2, CaCl2 0.5, K2HPO4 0.5, NaCl 0.5, yeast extract 1.08. In addition, the period of incubation is seven days, pH 7.5 and 37 °C with an inoculum size of 2 mL (105 cfu/mL) /100 mL medium. Conclusions: After optimization, the obtained uricase activity was 120.35 U/mL, indicating that the Streptomyces griseorubens strain NEAE-5 is a potent uricase producer and that the statistical approach used for optimization was appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the chemical properties of peat microparticles modified asphalt (Pt.M.A.). The originality of the study resides in the examination of the chemical characteristics of peat microparticles (Pt.) modified asphalt (Pt. M.A.) utilising FTIR, SEM, SFE, and XRD methodologies. This encompasses Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface free energy (SFE), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Initially, FTIR examined the functional groups of both unaltered and altered asphalt binders. The SEM images reveal improved compatibility, showcasing superior diffusion of the modifier across the asphalt. A further critical factor is that improved adhesion properties, according to the SFE study, indicate that modified binders generally offer more SFE compared to unmodified binders. The XRD measurements revealed a semi-crystalline structure in the Pt. modifier and an amorphous structure in the basal asphalt binder. The integration of Pt. into the asphalt cement resulted in modifications to the phases of both constituents, culminating in the emergence of a new semi-crystalline phase inside the modified asphalt binder. These data suggest that peat microparticles (Pt.) can improve the efficacy of asphalt binders by enhancing compatibility, adhesion, and resistance to ageing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe objective of this study is to investigate the potential of combined pond fly ash (PFA) and flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGDG) as a partial replacement for cement by mixing them with fine river sand for green mortar development. We studied the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of mortars by using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDXS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) for chemical component identification of the hydrated phase. These experimental results show that mortar containing pond fly ash, FGDG, and cement concentrations of 5 wt%, 5 wt%, and 90 wt% yields the maximum compressive strength (8.9 MPa) and flexural strength (3.4 MPa) after 28 days. This mortar has 12.6% higher compressive strength and 48% lower shrinkage in comparison with control specimens. A reduction in shrinkage is attributed to the denser structure of the mortar, as the calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) gel is found to exist in the SEM image and also identified through XRD studies. It is also concluded that excessive ettringite formation causes expansion in the volume of mortar, voids formation, and results in the reduction of strength. The application of this mortar can be in the internal plaster, bricks, and masonry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a new species, Diacheopsis resinae (Myxomycetes), collected from a microhabitat new for myxomycetes: stem wounds of coniferous trees (Norway spruce) where the resin is overgrown with a community of resinicolous fungi. The 80 known collections come from the Vosges (France), the Black Forest (Germany), Swabian Alp (Germany), and several localities in Denmark and Norway. Observations, but as well as metabarcoding of substrate samples with fungal (ITS [internal transcribed spacer]), bacterial (16S rDNA), and myxomycete (18S nuc rDNA) primers from eight trunks, revealed the new myxomycete to co-occur with resin-degrading ascomycetes (Infundichalara microchona, Lophium arboricola, Zythia resinae). The gram-negative bacterial genera Endobacter and Sphingomonas were found to be abundant in the substrate and may be a food source for the myxomycete. Fruit bodies were found mostly during the more humid winter season, with a peak in January/February. Partial sequences of two independent molecular markers (18S nuc rDNA, EF1α [elongation factor 1-alpha] gene) were obtained for 41 accessions, which form a monophyletic cluster in a two-gene phylogeny of Stemonititidales but do not group with other species of Diacheopsis, thus rendering this genus paraphyletic. The new species, although exclusively developing sessile sporocarps and morphologically undoubtedly falling into the genus Diacheopsis, is most closely related to species of Lamproderma, especially L. album, L. zonatum, and L. zonatopulchellum. Within D. resinae, three groups can be differentiated, which show nearly complete reproductive isolation, as judged from a recombination analysis of the two unlinked markers and the allelic combinations of the EF1α gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, an unusual method of home burglary has emerged in several European countries. Nitric acid is used to attack the tumbler lock of the front door. The aim of this study is to gain insights into the technical functioning of this method and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of this modus operandi. For this purpose, four pin‐tumbler locks were attached to a custom‐made holder and 65% nitric acid was successively injected into the key channel using a syringe. The locks were checked manually and using a CT scanner to see whether the lock was overcome and how the acid did affect the pins and springs. In three out of four cases the lock was overcome. The shortest time was 22 min until the pin pairs could be removed and it was possible to turn the core with a screwdriver. Overall, the results show that the modus operandi works with standard locks. According to the authors, the long duration and the high health risk are significant disadvantages in relation to other overcoming methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankylosaurs were a group of heavily armored non‐avian dinosaurs (Dinosauria, Ankylosauria), represented by a relatively abundant fossil record from the Cretaceous of North and South America. Their dermal skeleton was characterized by large osteoderms whose development and functional role have been largely investigated. However, interstitial small ossicles, forming between these osteoderms, have been far more overlooked and it remains unknown whether they were formed through the ossification of a preexisting fibrous matrix of connective tissue (i.e., metaplasia) or by a cell‐induced differentiation of new fiber bundles followed by mineralization (i.e., neoplasia sensu (Zeitschrift für Wissenschaftliche Zoologie, 1858, 9, 147)). Here, we propose a hypothesis on the developmental origin of these small ossicles in the ankylosaurian Antarctopelta oliveroi using light microcopy, scanning electron microscopy and three‐dimensional virtual histology through propagation phase‐contrast synchrotron radiation micro‐computed tomography (PPC‐SRμCT). Ossicles are located in the dermis. They are composed of two layers: (1) a thin external layer, and (2) a thick basal plate, composed of collagen fiber bundles, which forms the main part of the ossicle. The external layer is made of a smooth, vitreous mineralized tissue that does not look like bone. The basal plate, however, is of osseous origin. In this basal plate, the collagen fiber bundles are organized in two orthogonal systems: one horizontal—observable in cross‐sections—and one vertical—observable in the primary plane of sections sensu (Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology, 2004, 24, 874). The horizontal system is itself composed of successive layers of collagen fiber bundles arranged into an orthogonal plywood‐like structure. The bundles of the vertical system radiate from the center of the ossicle at the level of the transition between the external layer and the basal plate and run towards the periphery of the basal plate. Their thickness increases from the center of the ossicle towards its periphery. Numerous bundles of the vertical system form thin threads that interweave and penetrate within the thick bundles of the horizontal system. Our new data suggest that the ossicles were at least partially formed by metaplasia, that is, through the ossification of a preexisting fibrous matrix of connective tissue. This process was probably supplemented by a cell‐induced differentiation of new fiber bundles laid down prior to their incorporation into the fibrous system and its mineralization. This process looks more akin to neoplasia sensu (Zeitschrift für Wissenschaftliche Zoologie, 1858, 9, 147) than to metaplasia. Consequently, metaplastic and neoplastic processes may coexist in these ossicles with a possible differential expression during ontogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT In order to attain improved mechanical properties of the carbon fiber (CF) reinforced polyoxymethylene (POM) composite, maleamidic acid treated carbon nanotube (CNT) was deposited on carbon fiber. The mechanical properties of composites have been investigated. The tensile strength values of the treated CF/POM composites at all CNT mixing ratios are found to be higher than that of untreated one. The surface morphologies of the fractured surfaces of the composites were recorded using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to gain information about the fiber–matrix interfacial adhesion in the composites. The friction coefficient of all the CF/POM/CNT composites decrease as the load increases from 10 to 20 N under the same sliding speed of 1000 r/min. XPS results showed that the formation of C–O, C=O, and O–C=O based species give rise to chemical bonds of the CF and the POM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Consumers are assumed to engage in external information search only after exhausting their internal information sources. Guided by the accessibility/diagnosticity and ease-of-retrieval frameworks, and the elaboration likelihood model, the current study investigates this phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach: To test the relationships between internal information accessibility/diagnosticity and the importance of external search, and the moderating role of involvement in these relationships, 308 responses were collected on Amazon MTurk. Then, structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the data. Findings: The analyses showed that while accessibility and diagnosticity of internal information have an impact on external information search, involvement with the product class has a consequential moderating effect on these relationships. In particular, in the low-involvement group, only the diagnosticity of internal information had a negative effect on external information search. On the contrary, in the high-involvement group, only accessibility of internal information had a negative effect. Research limitations/implications: These findings highlight the possibility of drawing erroneous conclusions resulting from not incorporating involvement, in conjunction with information accessibility and diagnosticity, in the study of the consumer external information search behavior. Practical implications: The findings also imply that if practitioners aim to prime consumers to engage in external information search, they need to take into account that the effects of internal information's accessibility and diagnosticity on consumers' external search behavior may be different depending on their levels of involvement. Originality/value: This study's results showed that without considering the moderating effect of involvement, spurious conclusions may be made about the relationships between accessibility and diagnosticity of internal and external information importance. This finding may explain the discrepancy between the accessibility/diagnosticity and ease-of-retrieval frameworks, thus enriching the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the sol-gel auto-combustion (SGAC) approach was used to synthesis praseodymium (Pr3+) substituted Zinc-Cobalt (ZC) ferrites, having general formula Co0.7Zn0.3PrxFe2−xO4 (x = 0.0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20). X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a secondary phase (PrFeO3) with a composition of x ≥ 0.10 and the presence of FCC structure. The crystallite size (D) of Pr3+ doped ZC SFs decreased from 17.36 nm to 12.44 nm as the amount of Pr3+ doping increased. Additionally, the lattice constant saw an enhancement from 8.34 a (Å) to 8.96 a (Å) with the incorporation of Pr3+ into the ZC SFs. XRD and FTIR analysis verified the replacement of Pr3+ into ZC SFs. Inhomogeneous grain size distribution was seen in samples by applying the Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) technique. It was discovered that the dielectric loss decreased with the applied frequency, which is helpful for high frequency device applications. The substitutions of Pr3+ ions resulted in remanence (Mr (emu/g)), saturation magnetization (Ms (emu/g)) and coercivity (Hc (Oe)) maximum at x = 0.00 and minimum for x = 0.20 in ZC SFs, respectively. The maximum microwave frequency in GHz maximum for x = 0.00 (18.8 (GHz)) and minimum at sample x = 0.20 (7.86 (GHz)). According to the findings of our research, Pr3+ substituted spinel ferrites appear to be very useful in radar, satellite communication, space communication, and microwave frequency applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) continues to grow in popularity with numerous articles, books, courses, and workshops available to help researchers become proficient with SEM quickly. However, few resources are available to help users gain a deep understanding of the analytic steps involved in SEM, with even fewer providing reproducible syntax for those learning the technique. This work builds off of the original work by Ferron and Hess to provide computer syntax, written in python, for the specification, estimation, and numerical optimization steps necessary for SEM. The goal is to provide readers with many of the numerical and analytic details of SEM that may not be regularly taught in workshops and courses. This work extends the original demonstration by Ferron and Hess to incorporate the reticular action model notation for specification as well as the estimation of variable means. All of the code listed is provided in the appendix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

VMXm joins the suite of operational macromolecular crystallography beamlines at Diamond Light Source. It has been designed to optimize rotation data collections from protein crystals less than 10 µm and down to below 1 µm in size. The beamline has a fully focused beam of 0.3 × 2.3 µm (vertical × horizontal) with a tuneable energy range (6–28 keV) and high flux (1.6 × 1012 photons s−1 at 12.5 keV). The crystals are housed within a vacuum chamber to minimize background scatter from air. Crystals are plunge‐cooled on cryo‐electron microscopy grids, allowing much of the liquid surrounding the crystals to be removed. These factors improve the signal‐to‐noise during data collection and the lifetime of the microcrystals can be prolonged by exploiting photoelectron escape. A novel in vacuo sample environment has been designed which also houses a scanning electron microscope to aid with sample visualization. This combination of features at VMXm allows measurements at the physical limits of X‐ray crystallography on biomacromolecules to be explored and exploited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As a commonly engine coolant, ethylene glycol can produce corrosive acid byproducts at high temperatures when the car is running, specifically oxalic acid (OA), which can shorten the service life of engine. At the same time, chloride ions can also be introduced during coolant preparation processes. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the synergistic corrosion behavior of Cl− and OA on ADC12 aluminum alloy. Design/methodology/approach: The electrochemical tests, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) were used. Findings: The results showed that the corrosion rate of the aluminum alloy increased with the increase of OA and Cl− concentrations. After adding Cl−, the surface film of the aluminum alloy was further damaged, Cl− has a synergistic effect with OA and their interaction further accelerated the corrosion of the aluminum alloy. Nevertheless, as the immersion time increased, the corrosion rate of the aluminum alloy gradually diminished due to the formation of aluminum oxalate. Originality/value: The corrosion of ADC12 aluminum alloy was studied in OA, Cl− and their mixed solutions; the synergistic effect of OA and Cl− on the corrosion of ADC12 aluminum alloy was discussed, and aluminum oxalate formed inhibited its corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to cemented soils in terrestrial natural environments, cemented soils in littoral and marine geotechnical engineering face numerous difficulties. In coastal and marine geotechnical engineering, cemented soils are frequently degraded by ion erosion, tidal scouring, and temperature variations. Long-term marine environments present numerous challenges for cemented soil foundation projects. In marine geotechnical engineering, addressing and enhancing these degradation issues has become a crucial topic. To address this engineering problem, Nano-SiO2 is added to cement-stabilized soils to enhance their engineering performance. To investigate the mechanical effects and erosion mechanisms of Nano-SiO2 cemented soil subjected to chloride ion erosion and tidal alternation scouring, laboratory experiments, including immersion erosion tests with sodium chloride solution and dry-wet cycle tests, were designed. On specimens subjected to dry-wet cycles after chloride ion erosion at varying concentrations, unconfined compressive strength tests (UCS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) experiments, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. The objective was to investigate the impact of chloride ions and Nano-SiO2 on the microstructure and strength of cemented soil. Adding 2.5% Nano-SiO2 can promote cement hydration reactions while preventing the entry of chloride ions into the cemented soil, thereby increasing the density and compressive strength of the cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to explore the influence of water glass on the strength and microscopic mechanism of loess, water glass with different content and Baume degree was used to solidify loess. Unconfined compressive strenght test, particle analysis tests, mercury intrusion tests and SEM tests were carried out to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the strength characteristics and microstructure changes of loess and water glass solidified loess under different conditions. The results showed that the unconfined compressive strength of water glass solidified loess increased with the increase of the water glass content, the Baume degree and the curing period. After 28 days of curing, the unconfined compressive strength reached the maximum value when the Baume degree of water glass was 52 Be’ and the content was about 20%. The incorporation of water glass gradually increased the cements attached to the loess skeleton particles and their surfaces. The particle diameter increased and the macropores were filled with cements. The macropores in the soil gradually decreased and the integrity was enhanced. The reason for the increase in the strength of water glass solidified loess was that the cementing material generated by the hydration reaction of water glass enhanced the degree of cementation between soil particles and increased the mutual friction between particles, which made the soil structure more stable and improved the soil strength. The research results provide a reference for the selection of relevant parameters in the design of improved loess engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation focuses on the study of the effect of process parameters like peak current ( I p) , base current ( I b) , pulse frequency (F) , shielding gas flow rate (Q) on mechanical properties like yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and flexural strength (FS) of the welded joints during pulsed TIG welding of SAILMA 450 and EN14 B steels. Taguchi's L 2 5 orthogonal array has been used for conducting the tests. Multi-objective optimization has been performed using Grey relational analysis (GRA) in order to maximize the mechanical strength and to find out the optimal set of parameters. The optimum parametric combination is obtained at a peak current of 220 Amps, base current of 120 Amps, pulse frequency of 5 Hz and shielding gas flow rate of 17 l/min. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is used to predict the significant process parameters. It has been observed from the ANOVA analysis that peak current and pulse frequency have more influence on the output responses than the shielding gas flow rate and base current. The results of the confirmatory test show an improvement of 0.5801 in the GRG, which is satisfactory. A microstructure study has been performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the optimal set of process parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passivity breakdown mechanism of high-strength 7068 alloy is studied. Breakdown potential varied linearly with log aCl‒, pH, and square root of scan rate in potentiodynamic polarization tests. Mott-Schottky analysis showed that the dominant defect is cation vacancy. Passive layer characteristics like cation vacancy density and defect annihilation rate are determined. Critical cation vacancy density for pitting obtained from point defect model and the theoretical values are somewhat compatible. Chloride concentration of 0.01 M is too dilute to cause severe localized corrosion, whereas beyond 0.5 M, saturation is achieved in terms of breakdown potential and the cation vacancy density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of laser treatment parameters on the tensile behavior of H13 tool steel in both quenched and tempered conditions. The effects of varying laser parameters on ultimate tensile strength and elongation at fracture which is the aim of this research were explored by employing a bionic unit to apply laser treatment with two parallel lines on the steel surface. These parameters are crucial for understanding material performance under tensile stress. Statistical analysis, including an analysis of variance (ANOVA), and fractographic analysis using SEM were conducted to analyze the results. The findings reveal a significant enhancement in the ultimate tensile strength of the laser-treated samples, with values ranging between 1342.27 and 1497.25 MPa, surpassing the non-treated substrate's strength of 1247.23 MPa. However, a decrease in elongation at fracture was observed, indicating increased brittleness post-laser treatment, with elongation values notably lower than the non-treated sample's 14.71%. The hardness values within the laser-treated zone exhibited a high variance, with the highest values found in the hardened zone ranging from 65.7 to 61.4 HRC, suggesting the formation of fine carbides and lath martensite due to rapid cooling and martensitic transformation. Furthermore, the depth of the laser-transformed zone, significantly influenced by laser power, varied between 1.30 and 1.9 mm, highlighting the critical role of laser parameters in affecting material properties. The study highlights a critical balance between ductility and strength in laser-treated H13 tool steel, which is essential for optimizing the material's performance for industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection with worldwide distribution and high impact on human health. It has a limited clinical resolution with the available drugs, making it challenging to treat. Quercetin, which possesses biological and pharmacological qualities including antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, is a possible substitute for the current medications. Marine invertebrates can produce a vast array of different molecules, many of which are biologically active substances with distinct characteristics. In this study, we assessed the in vitro nematocidal effect of both quercetin and venom of Cassiopea andromeda Research highlights: Biological activity of quercetin could be used as chemotherapy for larval stages of parasitic nematode.Bioactive products in jellyfish venom is positively affect the larval stage of Toxocara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sophisticated engineering machining, ceramic materials are in great demand in today's precision industries because they have a wide range of potential applications, including automobiles, aircraft, and biomedical engineering. Silicon nitride ceramics (Si3N4) are difficult to manufacture using conventional machining processes. Modern technology allows Ultrasonic Micro-machining (USMM) to create almost any kind of material. Abrasive particles made of silicon carbide are used in this research work to look into the Si3N4 USMM process parameters. The physical structure and chemical composition have been examined in a scanning electron microscope with an integrated energy-dispersive X-ray analyzer. Particle swam optimization and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) desirability were the two types of optimizations used to find the best USMM process parameters. It has been shown that both techniques can be used together to get the best Material Removal Rate (MRR). The best settings were Slurry Concentration: 50 (g/l), Power Rating: 329 (W), and Tool Feed Rate: 1.06 (mm/min). Similarly, to minimize Overcut (OC) and Taper Angle (TA), the ideal method is to use a slurry concentration of 50 (g/l), a power rating of 400 (W), and a tool feed rate of 1.2 (mm/min). Finally, using the RSM, the USMM process was optimized in a way that maximized the MRR while minimizing OC and TA. It was found that the slurry concentration of 42.7 g/l, the power rating of 357.6 W, and the tool feed rate of 1.2 mm/min were the ideal settings for the USMM process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deformation of expansive soil in seasonally frozen regions caused by freeze–thaw cycles has severely affected the long-term performance of engineering applications. The alteration of expansive soil microstructure has resulted in many geotechnical engineering failures, such as soil cracking and settlement. Consequently, the micropore contraction and expansion mechanisms of expansive soil have drawn extensive attention. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is widely used as a rapid, non-destructive detection technique for moisture monitoring and microstructure evolution characterization in porous media. In addition, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can visualize the migration pattern of pore water under different numbers of freeze–thaw cycles. SEM is the most effective and direct method to reveal the structure of particle and micropore arrangement. This paper investigates the pore size evolution and pore structure distribution characteristics of saturated expansive soil via 6 freeze–thaw cycle tests using NMR and SEM techniques. The evolution law of saturated expansive soil under freeze–thaw cycles is obtained. The results show that pore water migrates from the center to the periphery under freeze–thaw cycles. The pore size decreases as the number of freeze–thaw cycles increases and small particles increase significantly. During the freeze–thaw cycle, the arrangement pattern changed from surface-surface contact to stacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation aims at the in-depth study on wear behavior of a novel hybrid aluminium based nano-composite. CP-Al + 2 wt.% TiN and CP-Al + (1 wt.% AlN + wt.% TiN) nano-composites were synthesized by stir casting method. The composites were subsequently studied for microstructural features using optical as well as scanning electron microscope (SEM). Hardness measurements were taken and compared with monolithic CP-Al alloy. Furthermore, wear studies were carried out in a pin-on-disk wear testing apparatus at room temperature at different loads up to 2000 m sliding distance at a sliding speed of 1 ms−1. Worn surfaces and wear debris were studied in a field emission SEM (FESEM). Results indicate massive grain refinement and improvement in hardness values in composites when compared with monolithic CP-Al alloy. Both TiN and AlN acted as nucleation sites in the nano composites. Moreover, engulfment of AlN particles due to its higher thermal conductivity caused presence of AlN particles within the grains. Wear results indicate greater improvement in wear resistance in case of nano-composites compared to monolithic CP-Al alloy. CP-Al + 2 wt.% TiN nano-composite exhibit ultra-mild wear at 20N load and mild wear at 40 and 60N load. On the other hand, hybrid nano composite exhibit ultra-mild wear upto 40N load. This is due to the presence of both TiN and AlN nano-particles which resist microcutting abrasion and delamination wear respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are a diverse class of materials designed for selective molecular recognition. These polymers are synthesized with particular binding sites that are suited to a target molecule or a collection of structurally similar molecules through the use of a process called molecular imprinting. MIPs were synthesized in this work to specifically remove direct violet 51 from occupational leachates and aqueous solutions. Methacrylic acid functioned as the functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as the cross-linker, 2,2-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as the initiator, and alcohol as a porogenic solvent. To improve the dye removal effectiveness, a number of factors were optimized, including time, pH, analyte concentrations, and MIP/NIP dosages. The findings showed that MIPs had a much greater capacity for direct violet 51 adsorption than nonimprinted polymers (NIPs), with MIP adsorption capacity reaching 42.553 mg g−1 and NIP adsorption capacity reaching 7 mg g−1. The pseudo 2nd-order model described the adsorption kinetics, and the rate constant (K2) for MIPs was found to be 0.00251 mg g−1 min. Furthermore, a high rebinding efficiency of 94 % was observed when the selectivity of MIPs for direct violet 51 was assessed against structurally similar templates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pilostyles, an endoparasitic genus within the Apodanthaceae family, grows inside host stems with flowers and fruits being the only external manifestations. Previous studies of P. berteroi growing on Adesmia trijuga provided limited details of the endophyte and omitted the origin of flowers and sinker structure. This study, using classical methods of optical microscopy applied to the analysis with scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, expands the understanding of the P. berteroi/A. trijuga complex. We find that P. berteroi develops isophasically with its host, forming endophytic patches between the host's secondary phloem cells. The parasitized Adesmia stem's cambium primarily produces xylem parenchyma, with limited vessel production and halting fiber formation. The radial polarization of endophytic patches led to the formation of floral meristems. Flowers develop endogenously and emerge by the breakthrough of the host stem. Flowers are connected to the host cambium via chimeric sinkers, combining P. berteroi parenchyma and tracheoids with Adesmia vessels. Unlike previous studies that show uniformity among Pilostyles species, our analysis reveals new insights into the structural interaction between P. berteroi and A. trijuga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 41% of households and 2.8 billion people worldwide depend on solid fuels including coal. The available coal reserves in Indonesia are 31.7 billion tons and only enough for the next 65 years. This makes the government encourage the development of research on the utilization of biomass waste as alternative energy. Efforts are made to convert biomass waste in the form of rubber wood into alternative solid fuels through the pyrolysis process. Biochar is produced from biomass through pyrolysis, resulting in excellent combustion quality. Biochar from pyrolysis is combined with brown coal and molasses adhesive to create coal biobriquettes as an alternative solid fuel. The purpose of this study was to identify the optimal composition of brown coal and biochar in producing coal biobriquettes with the best quality. The pyrolysis process of rubber wood waste was carried out at a temperature of 350-400 °C for 2 hours. This study used variations in the composition of biochar (75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, and 95%) and brown coal (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) and 15 mL molasses adhesive. Testing the combustion quality of coal biobriquettes through proximate analysis and value. The results showed that the most optimal product was a sample with a composition of 85% biochar and 15% brown coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Microscopy Research & Technique is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

This paper includes a comprehensive taxonomical study based on seed morphology of 31 Euphorbia L species from Türkiye. The studied Euphorbia taxa have been examined for morphological traits such as seed color, dimensions, surface ornamentation, cell wall structures, lipid granule presence, and caruncle shape and dimensions with Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and stereo microscopy to develop a better understanding of the basis of its species. The outcomes show that the species differ based on seed shape and color. The seed width dimensions are between 0.55 and 3.83 mm and the length dimensions are between 1.03 and 5.87 mm. Euphorbia lathyris, E. prostrata, and E. nutans are marked differently from the rest of the studied species based on their seed dimension. The seed surface ornamentation is classified into 12 different types: tuberculate, reticulate, areolate, colliculate, verrucate, alveolate, rugose, alveolate‐reticulate, slightly reticulate, reticulate‐areolate, pusticulate, and ruminate. The most common form is reticulate, found in eight species. The tuberculate (in E. helioscopia), areolate (in E. oblongata), slightly reticulate (in E. amygdaloides), and ruminate (in E. herniariifolia) ornamentation types are each characterized by only one species. The presence of lipid granules and anticlinal and periclinal cell walls disclose interspecific relationships within the examined taxa. Also, an identification key is offered for the studied species based on seed characters. Research Highlights: The seeds of Turkish Euphorbia species have been studied in depth.The morphological characters of seeds of Turkish Euphorbia species have been examined utilizing SEM and light microscopy for the first time and discussed the taxonomic practice of these characteristics.A dichotomous key containing seed morphological data has presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Tilia L. belongs to Malvaceae and it is represented by four species in Turkey. These are T. cordata, T. platyphyllos, T. rubra subsp. caucasica, and T. tomentosa. Tilia species have medicinal importance, especially to treat colds, flu, and coughs, and are also used as sedatives. Inflorescence with bract is recorded in the pharmacopeia as used parts. This study aimed to investigate the differences in leaf and bract characteristics in distinguishing Tilia species. Leaves and bracts were examined anatomically and micromorphologically under light and scanning electron microscopes (LM and SEM). There is no comparative anatomical and micromorphological study of Tilia species from Turkey. Microscopic examination allows for the observation of stomata types, trichomes, and other anatomical structures. These features can vary among species and can aid in differentiation. Features of bract that is medicinally used part were evaluated to find efficient diagnostic characters. The leaves also possess distinct characteristics, and leaf morphology is already used in the identification key in Flora. The emphasis is on identifying the species of medically used drugs. A diagnostic key was created using LM and SEM based on bract features to differentiate taxa for the first time. Research Highlights: Leaf and bract anatomy of Tilia taxa was studied via LM and SEM.The raw plant material is inflorescence with bract so identification by bract is important for species adulteration.An diagnostic key based on bract features was created for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), six Salsola species from Iran were examined for their epidermis, seed, and fruit micromorphology. Among them were S. brachiata from section Heterotricha, S dendroides, S. incanescens, and S. orientalis from section Caroxylon, S. kali from section Kali, and S. turcomanica from section Physurus. Epidermal cells are divided into three types. There were diamond, irregular, and polygonal cells, as well as straight and undulated walls. Studied species of Salsola have smooth or sculptured fruit surfaces, and there are three main types of fruit surface ornamentation. There is a significant difference between these species based on the type of hair and density of the fruit. Seed shape and color have little systematic significance. The seed epidermis is composed of polygonal, elongated polygonal, irregular, and diamond cells. Although polygonal and irregular testa cells are most common, their size and shape can provide additional information and useful diagnostic characteristics at both specific and infraspecific levels. For taxonomic separation, the current study provides novel insights at micromorphological levels. Research Highlights: This article reports halophyte are shown as models for adaptation to extreme habitats.These plants are placed among the ecological communities of xerophytes. Here, for the first time, the microstructural analysis of Salsola has been investigated.Additionally, it provides new insights into plant species' response to extreme conditions, as well as possible adaptation strategies at the micromorphological level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficient use of softwood in biorefineries requires harsh pretreatment conditions to overcome biomass recalcitrance. Following harsh pretreatments, the hemicellulose is solubilized. Here, we studied the material characteristics of Norway spruce following steam pretreatment at six different severities, relating chemical and structural information to the enzymatic hydrolyzability. Steam pretreatment conditions were defined by two different temperatures (180 °C and 210 °C), with and without the addition of various acids (CH3COOH, H3PO4, H2SO4, SO2). Structural knowledge of the streams is a cornerstone for developing an efficient saccharification process. This study combines advanced structural characterizations to gain fundamental understanding of the influence of severity of pretreatment on spruce. Structural knowledge is a cornerstone in developing an effective saccharification process by modulating pretreatment conditions and enzymes employed. Overall structural properties were assessed by scanning electron microscopy. The effect of stream pretreatment severity on lignin and lignin-carbohydrate bonds was investigated by two-dimensional heteronuclear single quantum correlation nuclear magnetic resonance. Finally, cellulose ultrastructure was studied by applying small/wide-angle X-ray scattering. The structural characteristics of the six pretreated softwood substrates were related to the enzymatic hydrolyzability. With increasing pretreatment severity, surface defibrillation, and lignin depolymeryzation were observed. Further, lignin-carbohydrate complexes signals were detected. Cellulose analysis revealed the rearrangement of microfibrils leading to the formation of larger microfibril aggregates. This microfibril rearrangement likely contributed to the observed increase in enzymatic hydrolysis yields as better enzyme accessibility resulted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]