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BackgroundSocial distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic may have decreased engagement in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and may have had possible consequences on post-CR exercise maintenance. The increased use of technology as an adaptation may benefit post-CR participants via wearables and social media. Thus, we sought to explore the possible relationships of both the pandemic and technology on post-CR exercise maintenance.ObjectiveThis study aimed to (1) understand CR participation during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) identify perceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity after CR completion, and (3) assess willingness to use technology and social media to support physical activity needs among older adults with cardiovascular disease.MethodsWe recruited participants aged 55 years and older in 3 different CR programs offered at both public and private hospitals in Northern California. We conducted individual interviews on CR experiences, physical activity, and potential for using technology. We used thematic analysis to synthesize the data.ResultsIn total, 22 participants (n=9, 41% female participants; mean age 73, SD 8 years) completed in-depth interviews. Themes from participants' feedback included the following: (1) anxiety and frustration about the wait for CR caused by COVID-19 conditions, (2) positive and safe participant experience once in CR during the pandemic, (3) greater attention needed to patients after completion of CR, (4) notable demand for technology during the pandemic and after completion of CR, and (5) social media networking during the CR program considered valuable if training is provided.ConclusionsIndividuals who completed CR identified shared concerns about continuing physical activity despite having positive experiences during the CR program. There were significant challenges during the pandemic and heightened concerns for safety and health. The idea of providing support by leveraging digital technology (wearable devices and social media for social support) resonated as a potential solution to help bridge the gap from CR to more independent physical activity. More attention is needed to help individuals experience a tailored and safe transition to home to maintain physical activity among those who complete CR.

The oxidative dehydrogenation of propane with CO2 (CO2-ODP) was investigated over different metal oxides MxOy (M: Ca, Sn, Cr, Ga) supported on a SiO2 surface. Catalysts were characterized employing nitrogen adsorption/desorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), CO2 temperature programmed desorption (CO2-TPD) and pyridine adsorption/desorption experiments in order to identify their physicochemical properties and correlate them with their activity and selectivity for the CO2-ODP reaction. The effect of operating reaction conditions on catalytic performance was also examined, aiming to improve the propylene yield and suppress side reactions. Surface acidity and basicity were found to be affected by the nature of MxOy, which in turn affected the conversion of propane to propylene, which was in all cases higher compared to that of bare SiO2. Propane conversion, reaction rate and selectivities towards propylene and carbon monoxide were maximized for the Ga- and Cr-containing catalysts characterized by moderate surface basicity, which were also able to limit the undesired reactions leading to ethylene and methane byproducts. High surface acidity was found to be beneficial for the CO2-ODP reaction, which, however, should not be excessive to ensure high catalytic activity. The silica-supported Ga2O3 catalyst exhibited sufficient stability with time and better than that of the most active Cr2O3-SiO2 catalyst. Decreasing the weight gas hourly space velocity resulted in a significant improvement in both propane conversion and propylene yield as well as a suppression of undesired product formation. Increasing CO2 concentration in the feed did not practically affect propane conversion, while led to a decrease in propylene yield. The ratio of propylene to ethylene selectivity was optimized for CO2:C3H8 = 5:1 and space velocity of 6000 mL g−1 h−1, most possibly due to facilitation of the C–H bond cleavage against that of the C–C bond. Results of the present study provided evidence that the efficient conversion of propane to propylene is feasible over silica-based composite metal oxides, provided that catalyst characteristics have been optimized and reaction conditions have been properly selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological charcoal loaded with nano zero-valent iron (nZVI@BC) was synthesized using the bioleaching co-pyrolysis method. This study analyzed the formulation sequence of nZVI@BC and its influence on chromium elimination from water and soil, along with the involved mechanisms. The bioleaching method facilitated ionic iron incorporation onto biochar in the form of yellow potassium ferroalum compounds, which were reduced to Fe0 by H2, CO, and CH4 generated during biomass co-pyrolysis. In aqueous conditions, the removal capacity of Cr(VI) by nZVI@BC increased by 72.01% and 66.92% compared to biochar (BC) and biochar–bioleachate composite (BBC), respectively. Under optimal conditions, nZVI@BC eliminated 90.11% of 20 mg/L Cr(VI), with experimental data fitting the Freundlich and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The nZVI@BC also showed a passivation effect on chromium in soil; after 45 days, the exchangeable state of chromium was reduced by 12.89%, while the residual state increased by 10.45%. This enhancement in chromium elimination from soil was evident, as the residual state increased more for nZVI@BC (10.45%) than for BC alone (9.67% and 8.48%). Soil physicochemical properties and microbial community abundance improved as well. Cr(VI) removal mechanisms involved adsorption, reduction, and co-precipitation in water, while soil mechanisms included surface adsorption, electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and complexation. The synthesis of nZVI@BC offers a novel method for creating iron-modified materials to effectively remove Cr(VI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical and electrical deterioration of chromium (Cr) thin films sputtered onto polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates under tensile strain was studied. Understanding mechanical and electrical stability due to imposed strain is particularly important for device reliability, as the demand for flexible electronic devices increases. Cr thin films, widely spread across the field of electronic and sensor applications, face crack propagation with electrical degradation with tensile stress that can seriously compromise the performance. Accordingly, this study offers new findings on how Cr film thickness might influence crack formation and electrical resistance differently and also the general guidelines for flexible electronic component design with respect to long-term durability. Electrical resistances were measured while mechanically stretching 100- and 200 nm thin sheets. The study focused on crack development and propagation mechanisms in both film thicknesses and their effects on percentage change in electrical resistance (PCER). Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize surface morphology and observe cracks as the strain rose. Early crack formation in 100 nm Cr films led to rapid PCER increases due to quick crack propagation and fast electrical degradation. Thicker 200 nm films, however, showed a more gradual PCER rise with fewer but deeper cracks, indicating a regulated strain response. Unlike the sharp PCER spike in 100 nm films, 200 nm samples were more variable, with three out of four showing a slight PCER decrease at the end, hinting at partial crack repair or conductive realignment before full failure. These results underscore the role of layer thickness in managing crack propagation and electrical stability, relevant for flexible electronics and strain sensors. This paper is aligned with the ninth goal of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Target 9.5: Enhance Research and Upgrade Industrial Technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the effect of financial performance and inflation rate on stock returns in infrastructure companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The samples used in this study were 31 companies with a research time of 2018-2022. This study uses secondary data, sampling in this study is purposive sampling, the method of managing or analyzing the data used is classical assumption testing, Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression analysis and hypothesis testing using the t test and F test, the data processing tool used is Eviews 12. Based on the results of this study, it is known that the variables CR, DER, PER, RE, and Inflation Rate have no effect and are not significant to stock returns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Slovakia, around 200 environmental burdens that contain a significant amount of usable raw materials were created by the extraction of ores or the dumping of industrial waste. In this research, the hydrometallurgical metal recovery method from a metal-bearing environmental landfill in Sereď was investigated. The analysis of a representative sample of waste obtained from this landfill proved the presence of significant amounts of metals (43.45% Fe; 1.3% Cr; 0.09% Co, and 0.23% Ni). A thermodynamic study of the metals' (Fe, Cr, Ni, and Co) leaching probability confirmed the possibility of metal extraction in an acidic environment. Subsequently, the effect of the most important factors on the leaching process (stirring intensity, temperature, liquid-to-solid phase ratio, and acid concentration) was experimentally tested. The analysis of the results determined the optimal leaching conditions. The extraction of 90.35% Fe and 59.62% Cr was ensured at a stirring intensity of 400 rpm, a leaching temperature of 80 °C, a liquid-to-solid phase ratio of 40, and a H2SO4 concentration of 3 mol/dm3. Various techniques, including SEM, EDX, XRD, Eh-pH diagrams, and AAS analysis, were used to analyze samples and products after leaching. The possibility of precipitating metals/compounds from the leachate to obtain a marketable product was theoretically proposed and proven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pure ZnS and Zn1-x CrxS nanoparticles were successfully prepared using the coprecipitation method, where x represents the concentration (x = 0.00, 0.10, and 0.05). There are many analytical methods used, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Spectroscopy of energy dispersive (EDS). The magnetism structure of the catalysts was investigated using spectrophotometry (VSM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential thermal analysis (DTA). X-ray diffraction studies determine the nanocrystal arrangement and size of microcrystals. As seen in SEM analysis, the particles are agglomerated. The coordination of sulfur ions around zinc ions was examined using FTIR analysis. The energy band gap of the Cr-doped sample increases. Photoluminescence spectroscopy showed that the violet emission around 424 nm could be attributed to the excitation process of electrons from the low energy of the conduction band to the valence band of sulfur intermediate atoms. The front amplitude of doped ZnS nanocrystals remains constant regardless of the amount of Cr present. The results show that the ZnS nanocrystals were replaced by dilute Cr3+ ions. Cr-doped ZnS exhibits diamagnetic properties under high-temperature conditions. The results show that these materials are improved by the Cr doping process, making them suitable for many applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The share prices of mining companies included in the LQ 45 Index are unstable because they experience increases and decreases from 2018 to 2023 (5 years). If the other independent variables remain constant, each increase is one unit Debt to Equity Ratio will reduce share prices -0.643. Then influence Total Asset Turnover to Share Prices in Mining Companies that are members of the LQ 45 Index for the 2018-2023 period is a significant and positive influence. If the other independent variables remain constant, each increase is one unit Total Asset Turnover will increase the share price by 0.453. Furthermore, the influence of ROA (Return On Asset) to Share Prices in Mining Companies that are members of the LQ 45 Index for the 2018-2023 period is a significant and negative effect. If the other independent variables remain constant, each increase is one unit Total Asset Turnover will lower the Share Price 1,060. and Current Ratio, Debt to Equity Ratio, Total Asset Turnover, ROA (Return On Asset) simultaneous significant effect on share prices in Mining Companies that are members of the LQ 45 Index for the 2018-2023 period with a percentage of 79% means that it is 79% Current Ratio, Debt to Equity RatiO,Total Asset Turnover and ROA (Return On Asset) to Stock Price and the rest 21% influenced by factor other than the variables studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was conducted to evaluate the chromium contamination and its relationship with soil components of the Eastern Ghouta of Damascus, Syria. Various areas were chosen in the terms of chromium content analysis. Soil samples were collected from these areas to a depth of 60 cm from the three layers, at intervals of 20 cm. The results showed that the levels of total and CrVI were within the normal limits in Al-Maamouniye (uncontaminated with chromium), Jobar (agricultural land), and Ein Tarma (agricultural land). While it exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL) as per FAO and WHO on the area of Tanneries (Dabagat). The soil content of CrIII (536.99, 474.34, 415.77 mg kg–1) and CrVI (0.12, 0.51, 0.75 mg kg–1) were determined in the layers of 0–20, 20–40, 40–60 cm, respectively. The results also showed that 80% of chromium was associated with organic matter in the soil of Al-Dabagat region. In contrast, approximately 85% of chromium was available in the remaining part of the Mamounia soil. It was noted the content of chromium, which is associated with iron and manganese oxides, were high. Although chromium was exchangeable and bounded to CaCO3, however, its quantity was negligible. The results showed that the concentration of CrVI increased with depth at all the selected areas, in contrast to CrIII which decreased with the depth of soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of Islamic stock companies to generate profits, pay obligations and have a high ranking in environmental financing does not necessarily have the highest stock price. Therefore, a study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of ROA and CR and green accounting on stock prices, to determine the effect of ROA and CR on stock prices through green accounting as an intervening variable in Islamic stock companies listed on JII for the 2019-2023 period. The population was 30 JII constituent companies. The research sample was 65 observations from 13 companies according to the criteria for 5 years of observation. The data analysis technique used panel data regression assisted by Eviews software version 10. The results of the study (1) ROA has a positive and significant effect on Green Accounting (2) CR has a positive but not significant effect on Green Accounting; (3) ROA has a positive and significant effect on Stock Price; (4) CR has a positive and significant effect on Stock Price; (5) Green Accounting has a negative but not significant effect on Stock Price; (6) ROA has a negative but not significant effect on stock prices through green accounting as an intervening variable; (7) ROA has a negative but insignificant effect on stock prices through green accounting as an intervening variable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel reinforcement in marine concrete structures is vulnerable to chloride-induced corrosion, which compromises its structural integrity and durability. This study explores the combined effect of the alloying element Cr and the smart corrosion inhibitor LDH-NO2 on enhancing the corrosion resistance of steel reinforcement. Employing a machine learning approach with a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm, a predictive model was developed to estimate the polarization resistance of steel, considering Cr content, LDH-NO2 dosage, environmental pH, and chloride concentration. The model was rigorously trained and validated, demonstrating high accuracy, with a correlation coefficient exceeding 0.85. The findings reveal that the addition of Cr and application of LDH-NO2 synergistically improve corrosion resistance, with the model providing actionable insights for selecting effective corrosion protection methods in diverse concrete environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveTo compare the effect of syringe irrigation technique, passive ultrasonic activation technique, EDDY activation technique and Er,Cr,YSGG laser activation technique on smear layer removal in root canals in vitro.MethodsForty mandibular first premolars with single canal were collected from patients in Qingdao Stomatological Hospital affiliated to Qingdao University. After root canal preparation with ProTaper Universal to F3, they were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10) according to different activation irrigations for the final washing: syringe irrigation (SI), passive ultrasonic activation (PU), EDDY activation (EDDY) and Er,Cr,YSGG laser activation (YSGG). Finally, all the crowns of them were cut off and the root length was trimmed to 15 mm. The roots were split longitudinally and observed with scanning electron microscope (SEM) for assessment of smear layer removal in different parts of the root canal.ResultsAll groups showed similar effects for cleaning the root canals in the coronal thirds (P > 0.05). For cleaning the root canals in the middle thirds, PU group, EDDY group and YSGG group showed similar effects, (P> 0.05). They were more effective than SI group (P < 0.05). For cleaning the root canals in the apical thirds, PU group and EDDY group showed similar effects (P> 0.05). They were more effective than SI group (P < 0.05). YSGG group was more effective than other groups (P < 0.05).ConclusionEr,Cr,YSGG laser activation technique can remove smear layer of root canals effectively. The cleaning effect of the passive ultrasonic activation technique, EDDY activation technique is better than that of syringe irrigation technique.

Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully synthesized via a solvothermal method. Their structural, compositional, morphological, optoelectronic, and electrochemical properties have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. Porosimetry and specific surface area in terms of the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) technique have also been studied. XRD indicates the formation of a polycrystalline kesterite CZTSe phase. Raman peaks at 173 and 190 cm−1 confirm the formation of a pure phase. TEM micrographs revealed the presence of nanoparticles with average sizes of ~90 nm. A BET surface area of 7 m2/g was determined. The CZTSe NPs showed a bandgap of 1.0 eV and a p-type semiconducting behavior. As a proof of concept, for the first time, the CZTSe NPs have been used as a visible-light-driven photocatalyst to Congo red (CR) azo dye degradation. The nanophotocatalyst material under simulated sunlight results in almost complete degradation (96%) of CR dye after 70 min, following a pseudo-second-order kinetic model (rate constant of 0.334 min−1). The prepared CZTSe was reusable and can be repeatedly used to remove CR dye from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Herstelrecht is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Herstelrecht is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Herstelrecht is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Herstelrecht is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Herstelrecht is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as a low-cost photo responsive semiconductor material could effectively detect heavy metal ions. It was expected to build effectively system to investigate the metal migration and transition mechanism. Based on the material characteristics of carbon quantum dots, a detection system for heavy metal hexavalent chromium ions in water environment was established. It identified Cr (VI) effectively, the detection limit of the system was 3.86 μM, the recovery rate was 95.4 ~ 109.5%. A series of characterization methods, such as ultraviolet, infrared and fluorescence spectra, were used to study the fluorescence quenching mechanism of Cr (VI) reaction with carbon quantum dots. The suitable experimental conditions for the detection of Cr by carbon quantum dots were as follows: room temperature, pH 7–8, 30 min reaction time. The dynamic fluorescence quenching process made this method convenient and efficient, and provided a scientific data basis and theoretical basis for the accurate morphology and migration process of heavy metal chromium in water environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Veiligheid is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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 work aims to investigate the design, fabrication, and characterization of a novel photodetector for light-sensing applications. The photodetector is based on Tb/Al/Cr/p-Si heterostructure and was integrated using the E-beam evaporation fabrication technique. The performance of the photodetector was evaluated through various experiments, including I–V characteristics, responsivity, and photo-transient time analysis. The I–V characteristics were measured under dark and different irradiance levels. The experimental results showed that the structure has a good and fast response to the light confirming its photodiode behavior where the photocurrent increases with increasing illumination intensity due to the formation of electron–hole pairs. The electrical parameters were explained according to the thermionic emission (TE) theory. Moreover, Cheung and Nord's methods were used to determine the diode electronic parameters such as ideality factor (n), barrier height (Φ0), and series resistance (Rs). The photo-transient characteristics of the heterostructure diode carried out under irradiance of about 1000 W/m2 have shown a fast response to light. The uncertainty budget for the I–V curves was estimated and tabulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Tijdschrift voor Criminologie is the property of Boom uitgevers Den Haag 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.)

Copyright of Acta Petrologica et Mineralogica / Yanshi Kuangwuxue Zazhi is the property of Acta Petrologica et Mineralogica 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.)

To improve the corrosion resistance and interfacial contact resistance (ICR) 316L stainless steel bipolar plates used in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), a series of three-layer amorphous carbon films were prepared by magnetron sputtering. The corrosion resistance and ICR of 316 L stainless steels are greatly improved by the Cr, N doped amorphous carbon and multilayer film structure. Ti and CrN were basement layer and transition layer, and amorphous carbon doping with Cr and N was the top layer. Nitrogen atoms, as the variable atoms, were added into the top layer, focusing on the relation between the N content and the film properties. First principles calculations were used to analyze the bond structure by Cr, N doping into amorphous carbon structure and to determine the reasons for the structural changes in the coating after doping the elements. The results revealed that the films are about 1.05 μm thick and without apparent defects. With increasing nitrogen flow rate, Cr–N bonds and C–N bonds appeared in the coating while promoting the graphitization of amorphous carbon. Compared with that of Cr-doped amorphous carbon coated steel, the corrosion current density of Cr, N co-doped amorphous carbon decreased to 8.1 × 10−9 A/cm2 in the +0.6 V (vs. SCE) potentiostatic polarization test, and as the ICR decreased to 1.3 mΩ cm2, the film exhibited outstanding corrosion resistance and conductivity properties. The Cr, N co-doped amorphous carbon/CrN/Ti composite film formed on 316L stainless steel might be appropriate used in PEMFCs. • Cr, N co-doped amorphous carbon - CrN–Ti composite coatings are prepared. • Cr–N bonds and C–N bonds appear in the coating and influence the property. • Nitrogen addition improves coatings corrosion resistance and ICR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains a leading cause of mortality among American men, with metastatic and recurrent disease posing significant therapeutic challenges due to a limited comprehension of the underlying biological processes governing disease initiation, dormancy, and progression. The conventional use of PCa cell lines has proven inadequate in elucidating the intricate molecular mechanisms driving PCa carcinogenesis, hindering the development of effective treatments. To address this gap, patient-derived primary cell cultures have been developed and play a pivotal role in unraveling the pathophysiological intricacies unique to PCa in each individual, offering valuable insights for translational research. This review explores the applications of the conditional reprogramming (CR) cell culture approach, showcasing its capability to rapidly and effectively cultivate patient-derived normal and tumor cells. The CR strategy facilitates the acquisition of stem cell properties by primary cells, precisely recapitulating the human pathophysiology of PCa. This nuanced understanding enables the identification of novel therapeutics. Specifically, our discussion encompasses the utility of CR cells in elucidating PCa initiation and progression, unraveling the molecular pathogenesis of metastatic PCa, addressing health disparities, and advancing personalized medicine. Coupled with the tumor organoid approach and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), CR cells present a promising avenue for comprehending cancer biology, exploring new treatment modalities, and advancing precision medicine in the context of PCa. These approaches have been used for two NCI initiatives (PDMR: patient-derived model repositories; HCMI: human cancer models initiatives). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, microscopy images are significant in medical research and clinical studies. However, storage and transmission of data such as microscopy images are challenging. Microscopy image compression is a vital area of digital microscope imaging in which image processing approaches are applied to capture the image by the microscope. It becomes accessible to interface the microscope to an image processing system because of technical advances in the microscope. Multiple application areas of microscope imaging, namely cancer research, drug testing, metallurgy, medicine, biological research, test-tube baby, etc., need microscopy image processing for analysis purposes. The microscopy image compression leads to complicated compression artifacts, like contouring, blocking, and ringing artifacts. Due to this problem, we select optimized Convolution Neural Networks (optimized-CNN), followed by Deep generative adversarial networks Deep-GAN, as a solution to reduce diverse compression artifacts. This research covers the compression of microscopy images and the removal of artifacts from a compressed microscopy image Optimized-CNN Deep-GAN based on Optimized-CNN and Deep-GAN. The concept of microscope image acquisition techniques and their analysis is also discussed. The performance of the Optimized-CNN Deep-GAN approach is measured using Peak Signal to Noise Ratio(PSNR), Compression Ratio(CR), Structural Similarity Index Measurement(SSIM), and Blind/Reference less Image Spatial Quality Evaluator(BRISQUE) and differentiated with state-of-the-art techniques. The experimental outcomes indicate the Optimized-CNN Deep-GAN technique acquires higher SSIM, BRISQUE, reduced space complexity, and better image quality than the existing image compression system. The proposed new model achieved CR 13.88, PSNR 40.6799 (dB), SSIM 0.9541, and BRISQUE 18.7645 values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SiMo ductile cast iron combines ease of part fabrication with good mechanical properties, including a usable plasticity range. Its poor corrosion resistance inherited from grey cast iron could be alleviated through alloying with Al or Cr additions capable of forming a dense oxide scale protecting the substrate. However, the presence of Al and Cr in cast iron tends to make the material brittle, and their optimum alloying additions need to be studied further. The present work was aimed at investigating the effect of crystallization rates on microstructure changes during directional crystallization of SiMo-type alloys with up to 3.5% Al and 2.4% Cr. The experiment was performed using the Bridgman–Stockbarger method. The tubular crucible was transferred from the hot section to cold section at rates ranging from 5 mm/h to 30 mm/h with a 4/5 crucible length and then quenched. The introduced Al promoted graphitization up to a point, wherein, at the highest applied addition, the graphite precipitation preceded crystallization of the rest of the melt. A rising level of Cr in these alloys from 1% to 2.4% resulted in the formation of low and high contents of pearlite, respectively. The higher crystallization rates proved effective in increasing the ferrite content at the expense of pearlite. In the investigated cast iron samples with smaller applied alloying additions, Widmanstätten ferrite or ausferrite, i.e., fine acircular phase, were often found. The switch from directional crystallization to quenching caused a transition from a liquid to solid state, which started with nucleation of islands of fine austenite dendrites with chunky graphite eutectic separating them. As these islands expanded, they pushed alloying additions to their sides, promoting carbide or pearlite formation in these places and forming a super-cell-like structure. The performed experiments helped gather information concerning the sensitivity of the microstructure of SiMo cast iron modified with Al and Cr to crystallization rates prevailing in heavy cast structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With reduced graphene oxide(rGO)as the carreer, polyaniline(PANI) was loaded onto rGO by in-situ polymerization to increase Is specific surface area, and the adsorptionreduction reaclion effect of the compostteon Cr( -- ) in solution was explored. The rGO/PANI composte was characterized by SEM, XRD, BET, FTIR, and XPS. The characteristics and mechanism of the adsorption reduction reaction of Cr( --)by rGO/PANI were discussed from the perspectives of adsorption Isothermal and adsorption kinetic models. The experimental results showed that the removal of Cr( --)by rGO/PANI mcludes adsorption, comp!exation and reduction. Part of Cr( -- ) was adsorbed on the surface of rGO/PANI,and part of t was reduced to Cr( * ). The reduced Cr( * )was partly complexed on the surface of the composte, and a small amount of t diffused into the solution. The maximum removal of Cr( -- ) by rGO/PANI can reach 97. 61 mg/g at pH = 2,of which the adsorption reduction was 73. 46 mg/g,and the remaining Cr( * Concentration in the solution was 24. 13 mg/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) stands as one of the most prevalent malignancies, and chemotherapy remains the primary treatment for advanced stages. However, the high expression of ABC binding cassette transporters, including MRP, P-gp, and LRP, along with multidrug resistance proteins, has been identified as a significant factor contributing to decreased chemotherapy drug sensitivity. This study aims to explore the impact and underlying mechanisms of Curculiginis Rhizoma [Hypoxidaceae; Curculigo orchioides Gaertn.] (CR) in combination with cisplatin on improving chemoresistance mediated by ABC binding cassette transporters and multidrug resistance proteins in NSCLC. Methods and Results: To unravel the relationship between JNK, MRP, P-gp, and LRP in NSCLC and gain insights into the regulatory mechanism of CR, this study employs an integrated approach encompassing bioinformatics, molecular docking, molecular dynamics, animal and cellular experiments. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a significant increase in the expression levels of JNK, MRP, P-gp, and LRP subtypes in multidrug-resistant non-small cell lung cancer. Subsequent animal experiments have shown that the combination of CR with cisplatin can improve the survival rate of lung cancer mice. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics analyses demonstrated favorable binding interactions between curculigoside and the aforementioned subtypes of JNK, MRP, P-gp, and LRP. In cellular experiments, the combination of cisplatin with both curculigoside and CR extract resulted in a notable decrease in cell viability and downregulation of the expression of JNK1, JNK2, MRP1, MRP2, MRP4, P-gp, and LRP1 in A549/cis cells. Conclusion: Remarkably, curculigoside exerted a significant downregulation effect on the expression levels of JNK1, MRP1, MRP2, MRP4, and LRP1. CR, particularly its main effective metabolite, curculigoside, has the potential to enhance the sensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer to cisplatin by regulating levels of JNK/MRP/LRP/P-gp and mitigating multidrug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Property prices have surged recently, mainly due to limited real estate supply amid high demand supported by a large monetary base. This has driven up rental prices, especially in major cities compared to their peripheries. This manuscript examines rental prices in Prague, Brno, Ostrava, Pilsen, and České Budějovice from March to October 2023. It uses distribution functions, correlation coefficients, contour heat maps, and parameterized regression to define a probability price interval for office properties, identify a positive correlation between area and rental prices, and develop an algorithm for setting appropriate rental prices. The findings are useful for practitioners, real estate agents, and government institutions, though they are closely linked to macroeconomic variables. Future potential options are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Nobody loves us' – Police discourse on (the lack of) legitimacy: This article analyzes the challenges faced by police professionals in Belgium, particularly in Brussels' Region. It explores concepts such as public legitimacy and power holder legitimacy in the context of policing. Through qualitative methods, the experiences of police officers and of youngsters are examined. The findings reveal a crisis of legitimacy, both internally and externally, leading to doubts about their societal mandate. The research concludes that there is a need for a clear definition of the contemporary societal mandate of the police and that work on the legitimacy of the police must begin within the organization itself [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under pressure – The burden on actors working in criminal law enforcement: Judges, prosecutors and defence lawyers are of pivotal importance in the enforcement of criminal justice. However, organisational, financial and professional constraints sometimes make it hard for them to play their part. This contribution highlights political and societal developments as well as professional and institutional challenges that can put a burden on professionals and paraprofessionals working in criminal law enforcement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are not crazy, and we are not alone – Professionals under pressure in the 'radicalization industry': In this essay, Geelhoed and Dijkman discuss the areas of tension within which professionals in the radicalization industry must navigate. Radicalization can be understood as a 'wicked problem', which contributes to dilemmas and risks for professionals that put them under pressure. In this essay, the authors examine various elements of these areas of tension to make the dilemmas and risks for professionals visible and to create more awareness about them. The authors pay particular attention to the issue of intersectionality and offer tools for dealing with the areas of tension in a constructive manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]