Comparative Investigations Research Articles

Development of a Diffusion Bonding Route for Joining Oxide-Dispersion-Strengthened (ODS) Steels for Nuclear Applications

Oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) steels are candidate materials for components in current and future nuclear power plants. One of the issues with using ODS steels is the difficulty of joining them without loss of mechanical performance. In this study, austenitic ODS 316L stainless steel was diffusion-bonded to Inconel 718 superalloy. Having optimized the bonding conditions, a number of samples were made at 1200 °C with a bonding time of 1 hour and pressure of 10 MPa. Preliminary mechanical and microstructural analyses indicated the formation of a sound joint interface, despite slight grain growth in the ODS 316L. A post-bonding thermo-mechanical treatment (TMT) was conducted to refine and restore the microstructure of the ODS 316L. Comparative TEM investigations of the parent ODS alloy and the bonded samples (with and without TMT) along with statistical analyses showed that the Y–Ti–O oxide size distribution remains unaffected by the bonding and complementary TMT cycles, indicating stability of such particles even at very high temperatures and suitability of the devised route for joining the ODS 316L steel.

Analytical Py-GC/MS study on conversion behaviors and reaction mechanism of biochar-mediated catalytic upgradation of primary pyrolytic products from lignocellulosic biomass

This study aims to demonstrate the general carbocatalytic conversion behaviors and reaction mechanisms of representative biomass-derived primary pyrolytic products towards product upgradation. Specifically, 4-Ethylguaiacol (4-EGC) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) were selected as lignin- and cellulose/hemicellulose-derived model compound, respectively, to elucidate the origin of products under different temperatures and biochar-reactant mixing ratios. Three reaction routes were distinguished, including side-chain elimination, ring opening and recombination, with each route exhibiting unique characteristics in terms of initiation temperature and selectivity. For 4-EGC, elimination of side-chains began at 500 °C, accompanied by alkyl transfer reactions to generate multi-alkyl-substituted phenols, while ring-opening started at 700 °C, and aromatics could be simultaneously produced. Biochar did not change the initiation temperature of each route but significantly influenced the product distribution. Comparing the biochar-reactant mixing ratio of 0 and 10:1, at 600 °C the selectivity towards phenols increased from 20.52 % to 54.98 %, and at 800 °C the selectivity towards aromatics increased from 14.28 % to 53.01 %. For 5-HMF, the elimination of side chains already began at 400 °C, and the ring-opening started at around 600 °C, but recombination products (phenols and aromatics) would not notably emerge until 700 °C. Biochar could both lower the initiation temperature of each reaction route and change the conversion efficiency for 5-HMF owing to the lower stability of furan ring. However, the impact of biochar on selectivity towards aromatics was less pronounced compared to 4-EGC. Even at 800 °C, the relative content of aromatics only reached 28.88 % with a biochar-reactant mixing ratio of 10:1 for 5-HMF. Comparative investigations on biochar structure before and after co-pyrolysis reactions further revealed that, at 600 °C, biochar maintained its structural integrity, but at 800 °C, it underwent significant changes, including amorphous carbon deposition covering the surface. Raman spectra analysis supported these findings, showing that biochar becomes more amorphous after reactions at 600 °C, while at 800 °C, larger aromatic ring systems form on the biochar, reducing defect sites.

Comparative investigations on Feeding Behaviour of Rhesus Monkey (Macaca mulatta, Zimmerman 1780) in Two Habitats of Different Altitude in Nepal

Geospatial and openness of food resources determine the foraging behaviour of rhesus monkey. The study of a year duration was conducted in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta, Zimmerman 1780), on natural habitatslow and high altitude with the aim to evaluate the major parts of plants eaten and to assess variation in feeding time of preference in two different habitats (Sorenson’s Similarity index of vegetation=0.093). Feeding behavior of a troop of rhesus monkey from Ramdhuni forest (93 masl Sorea dominated) and Dhankuta forest (1200 masl and Pinus dominated) was evaluated by recording by focal animal sampling method with reference to the vegetation. Diurnal time investment on feeding was 32% in Ramdhuni and 37.75% in Dhankuta. Ramdhuni and Dhankuta troop consumed 57 and 30 species of trees respectively and in both the habitats they consumed fruits from maximum number of plants. There was no significant relation on choosing parts of plants and also no significant relation on time investment on major eight food items but significant relation on some minor items in two habitats. We conclude the time allocation on particular items of food depends on their seasonal availability. Better understanding the feeding behaviour will give hope to sustainable management of rhesus monkey.

Correlation of work function and stacking fault energy through Kelvin probe force microscopy and nanohardness in dilute α-magnesium

Electronic interactions of the Group 2A elements with magnesium have been studied through the dilute solid solutions in binary Mg-Ca, Mg-Sr and Mg-Ba systems. This investigation incorporated the difference in the ‘Work Function’ (ΔWF) measured via Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM), as a property directly affected by interatomic bond types, i.e. the electronic structure, nanoindentation measurements, and Stacking Fault Energy values reported in the literature. It was shown that the nano-hardness of the solid-solution α-Mg phase changed in the order of Mg-Ca>Mg-Sr>Mg-Ba. Thus, it was shown, by also considering the nano-hardness levels, that SFE of a solid-solution is closely correlated with its ‘Work Function’ level. Nano-hardness measurements on the eutectics and ΔWF difference between eutectic phases enabled an assessment of the relative bond strength and the pertinent electronic structures of the eutectics in the three alloys. Correlation with ΔWF and at least qualitative verification of those computed SFE values with some experimental measurement techniques were considered important as those computational methods are based on zero Kelvin degree, relatively simple atomic models and a number of assumptions. As asserted by this investigation, if the results of measurement techniques can be qualitatively correlated with those of the computational methods, it can be possible to evaluate the electronic structures in alloys, starting from binary systems, going to ternary and then multi-elemental systems. Our investigation has shown that such a qualitative correlation is possible. After all, the SFE values are not treated as absolute values but rather become essential in comparative investigations when assessing the influences of alloying elements at a fundamental level, that is, free electron density distributions. Our study indicated that the principles of ‘electronic metallurgy’ in developing multi-elemental alloy systems can be followed via practical experimental methods, i.e. ΔWF measurements using KPFM and nanoindentation.

Smart Nanomaterial for Environmental Remediation towards Sustainable Solutions for Water and Soil Pollution

This research explores the transformative potential of nanomaterial developments in tending to water and soil contamination through economical natural remediation procedures. Three unmistakable nanomaterials, Nanoparticle A, Nanocomposite B, and Nanotube C, were synthesized and efficiently assessed for their adequacy in poison expulsion. In adsorption tests, Nanocomposite B showed remarkable lead expulsion capacity, outperforming Nanoparticle A and Nanotube C with values of 30 mg/g. Catalytic debasement tests illustrated Nanocomposite B’s predominant proficiency in corrupting phenol, accomplishing a noteworthy 68%, outflanking Nanotube C and Nanoparticle A. A comprehensive natural compatibility appraisal uncovered decreased ecotoxicity and cytotoxicity files for Nanocomposite B, situating it as a naturally inviting choice for remediation. Comparative investigations with related works exhibit the importance of fitting nanomaterial properties focused on poison expulsion. The promising results emphasize Nanocomposite B’s potential as a maintainable and multifunctional arrangement for water and soil remediation. This investigation contributes profitable insights to the developing field of nanotechnology-enabled natural administration, emphasizing the requirement for the capable sending of nanomaterials to attain long-term environmental and human well-being benefits.

Comparative investigations on α relaxation and conductivity of probe ions in a series of small molecular liquids

The coupling between translational motion and rotational motion in liquids is one of the long-standing concerns in condensed matter physics. The relaxation times of α relaxation and probe ion conductivities in a series of small molecular liquids, 15 types of single and binary small molecular liquids with different molecular shapes and functional groups when the number of carbon atoms is in a range from 3 to 14, are simultaneously obtained by dielectric spectroscopy method in this work. The results indicate that the coupling between translation and rotation is not directly related to the functional group of liquid molecules, nor very sensitive to the shape nor the size of molecules or ion size. However, the microstructure of liquid is a key factor affecting the coupling between translation and rotation. In other words, when the microstructure of the liquid is unchanged, the dependence of relaxation time on temperature is consistent with the dependence of conductivity reciprocal on temperature, whether in single small molecular liquids or in binary small molecular liquids, which provides a method for measuring relaxation time. The research results also show that the temperature dependence of the conductivity of the impurity ions carried by the liquid itself is consistent with the one of quantitatively doped ions, providing the ideas for investigating the ion conductivity behavior in organic small molecular liquids with low electrolyte solubilities. The experimental results of monohydroxy alcohol are consistent with the viewpoint that α relaxation rather than Debye relaxation corresponds to the system structure relaxation.

Nanotechnology-enabled Solutions for Water Purification and Environmental Sustainability

This research investigates the transformative potential of nanotechnology in tending to water refinement challenges and advancing natural supportability. Carbon nanotubes and graphene were synthesized and joined into nanostructured channels, showing a well-defined arrangement with predominant basic keenness affirmed through SEM and XRD investigations. In comprehensive water decontamination tests, these channels showcased momentous efficiencies: overwhelming metals, such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), were expelled at rates outperforming 98% and 97%, individually; natural poison methylene blue displayed an amazing evacuation productivity surpassing 99.5%; microbial contaminant Escherichia coli was successfully killed, accomplishing a momentous expulsion effectiveness of 99.9%. Comparative investigations with related studies underscored the competitive or prevalent execution of the nanostructured channels. Additionally, a life cycle appraisal (LCA) highlighted the commitment to natural maintainability, uncovering generally moo nursery gas outflows (450 kg CO2e), vitality utilization (550 MJ), and asset consumption (10 kg) related to the filters’ whole life cycle. The inventive integration of nanotechnology into water treatment techniques exhibits the potential for effective, feasible, and intriguing approaches, laying the establishment for the advancement of progressed innovations fundamental for worldwide water resource conservation.

Advanced Materials for High-Efficiency Solar Cells: A Comprehensive Exploration in Material Science

This research presents a comprehensive investigation of progressed materials for high-efficiency sun-oriented cells, centring on perovskite, natural, and quantum-dot innovations. Through an efficient strategy enveloping fabric determination, amalgamation, characterization, device creation, and execution examination, the study accomplished an eminent proficiency of 22% in perovskite sun-based cells, beating natural (9%) and quantum dot-based cells (12%). Stability testing uncovered perovskite cells maintained 90% of their introductory productivity after 1000 hours, outperforming the comparative decay watched in natural (75%) and quantum dot-based cells (80%). Comparative investigations with related works underscored the centrality of our discoveries, counting experiences into exciton elements, feasible plan hones, and imaginative approaches to adaptable solar cell models.

Clinical Outcomes of Implant-supported Fixed Dental Prosthesis for Full-mouth Rehabilitation Using Different Restorative Materials: A Systematic Review

Introduction: A fixed dental prosthesis supported by implants can be made from a variety of restorative materials for full-mouth rehabilitation. Since scientific study on the materials utilized has a variety of design features, evaluating the effects of various prosthetic materials on the oral environment is a challenge. Furthermore, the impact of prosthodontic material choice on the clinical outcome is still not entirely clear. The current systematic review’s goal was to examine how different restorative materials performed clinically in patients who were receiving fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) supported by implants. Materials and Methods: Using the developed search approach, a systematic electronic search was conducted. “Does the use of different restorative materials have any effect on the clinical outcomes of full-mouth rehabilitation with implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis?” was the main research question for this study, which was formulated using the Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome (PICO) framework. Results: Technical issues were far more common than biological ones, with “fracture of veneering material” and “fracture of framework” being the most frequent technical mishaps. The most common biological outcome was “marginal bone loss of 2 mm.” Conclusions: The clinical results of rehabilitation using implant-supported FDPs are significantly influenced by the prosthesis’s design and manufacturing process as well as the restorative material. To ascertain the use of innovative materials and specify their precise therapeutic indications with randomized clinical trials and extended follow-up, more comparative clinical investigations are needed.

Aluminium complexes of phenoxy-azo ligands in the catalysis of rac-lactide polymerisation.

Fourteen new phenoxy-azo aluminium complexes comprising two series, namely, dimethyl{phenoxy-azo}aluminium complexes 1a-7a and monomethyl{phenoxy-azo}aluminium complexes 1b-7b, were successfully synthesised and characterised. The molecular structure of complex 4a, determined using X-ray diffraction analysis, displayed a distorted tetrahedral geometry. The 1H NMR spectrum of complex 5b revealed fluxional behaviour caused by isomeric transformation that occurs in the solution at room temperature. The activation parameters determined by lineshape analysis of variable-temperature 1H NMR spectra in toluene-d8 are as follows: ΔH‡ = 70.05 ± 1.19 kJ mol-1, ΔS‡ = 21.78 ± 3.58 J mol-1 K-1 and ΔG‡ (298 K) = 63.56 ± 0.11 kJ mol-1. All aluminium complexes are active initiators for the ring-opening polymerisation of rac-lactide, and the polymerisations proceeded in a controlled manner and were living. In comparison, the catalytic activity of the dimethyl{phenoxy-azo}aluminium complexes was insignificantly different from that of the corresponding monomethyl{phenoxy-azo}aluminium complexes. The steric factor of the ortho-phenoxy substituent was observed to exert a decelerating effect on the catalytic rate. Kinetic investigations revealed first-order dependency on both monomer and initiator concentrations. Comparative catalytic investigations conducted on phenoxy-azo aluminium and phenoxy-imine aluminium complexes revealed that the former complexes exhibited lower catalytic activity.

Natural additives as reinforcement for mortars: Comparative evaluation of gypsum-based plasters with pistachio shells and orange peels

This research explores the use of waste from agriculture and food production (agro-food waste) as a green additive in building gypsum plasters. The focus is on lightweight mortars made with bio-based materials, aiming for a solution that aligns with green building principles and circular economy practices. Current research prioritizes examining the physical and mechanical properties of these bio-based mortars. These mortars often have high porosity and lower weight, making them good thermal insulators and sound absorbers. While not yet widely used in construction, they hold promise as a sustainable alternative with performance comparable or even exceeding conventional plasters in thermal and acoustic insulation. In particular, the cultural premises of this study refer to the shared identity between Sicily and Tunisia, focused by a recent strategic cross-border cooperation project CUBÂTI, Culture du bâti de qualité: recherche, innovation et entreprise pour la durabilité, funded by Italy-Tunisie Programme 2014-2020. In fact, the present experimental research has focused on two materials easy to find in these countries, applying a replicable method to other regions in the Mediterranean area. In this study, the performances of gypsum-based plasters with pistachio shells and orange peels as additives were evaluated. Several tests were carried out on the developed materials to optimize their mix design, verify their mechanical and physical properties and the results of the comparative investigations showed interesting results in terms of mechanical resistance, thermal conductivity and reduction of water absorption.

Epidemiological analysis of congenital syphilis in the State of Paraná, Brazil.

Congenital syphilis is a complex public health issue caused by the transmission of Treponema pallidum. Brazil has high incidence rates, with a distinct transmission pattern surpassing other notifiable diseases. The objective of this study was to examine epidemiological trends, incidence rate, mortality, geographical distribution, prenatal care, and diagnostic determination timing of congenital syphilis in Paraná State. Data from Department of Informatics of the Single Health System were used to analyze the period from 2015 to 2021 in Paraná. Linear regression and t-tests were employed to assess significance. Statistical significance was determined by p<0.05. A total of 5,096 notifications of congenital syphilis were recorded in Paraná over the examined period. The metropolitan region is a notable clustering of cases, following Londrina, Maringá, and Foz do Iguaçu. The age group with the highest cases is found between 20 and 24 years (34.93%). Regarding maternal education, a higher occurrence was noticed in incomplete lower secondary education mothers (22.12%). Regarding ethnic background, 3,792 women were identified as white, which was the majority of this analysis (74.41%). Diagnosed maternal syphilis throughout the prenatal phase during 2015-2018 exhibited a noteworthy increase (p<0.05). Most women received prenatal care (p<0.05), even though a significant number received the diagnosis at the delivery or after it. The average infant mortality rate associated with congenital syphilis in Paraná was 0.03. Paraná State serves as a representative sample of this epidemiological situation, providing significant insights into the intricacies of congenital syphilis incidence. Further comparative investigations including diverse regions within Brazil are necessary.

Exploring the photovoltaic properties of naphthalene-1,5-diamine-based functionalized materials in aprotic polar medium: a combined experimental and DFT approach.

In this study, a series of naphthalene-1,5-diamine-based donor chromophores (ND1-ND9) with A-D-A architecture was synthesized through a condensation reaction between amines and substituted aldehydes. Various spectroscopic techniques i.e., FTIR, UV-Vis, 1HNMR and 13CNMR were performed for structural elucidation of naphthalene-1,5-diamine-based chromophores. Accompanying the synthesis, quantum chemical calculations were also accomplished at MPW1PW91/6-311G (d,p) functional of DFT/TD-DFT approaches to explore the photovoltaic properties of ND1-ND9 compounds. A comparative study between experimental and DFT results of vibrational and UV-Vis analyses showed a good harmony. All compounds showed band gaps in the range of 3.804-3.900 eV with absorption spectra in the UV region (397.169-408.822 nm). Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) findings revealed an efficient intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) from the central naphthalene-1,5-diamine-based donor core towards terminal acceptors. This significant charge transfer was also supported by the density of states (DOS) and transition density matrix (TDM) maps. All synthesized chromophores showed lower exciton binding energy values (E b = 0.670-0.785 eV), illustrating higher exciton dissociation rates with greater charge transfer in the studied chromophores. A reasonable harmony was obtained by comparative investigations of a standard hole transport material (HTM), Spiro-OMe TAD, with ND1-ND9 compounds, which illustrated that these synthesized chromophores might be considered as good HTMs. Therefore, all analyses indicated that the naphthalene-1,5-diamine-based chromophores might be utilized as efficient photovoltaic materials.

Navigating Land Acquisition Hurdles in Ghana’s Real Estate Development

Purpose – This study focuses on investigating the challenges associated with land acquisition for real estate development in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The aim is to identify these challenges and propose ways to mitigate them, thereby facilitating the growth of the nation’s real estate market. Design/Method/Approach – The study employed the use of structured questionnaire to gather data from caretaker chiefs, land officers, and real estate developers in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Secondary data were also gathered from various literary sources. Data analysis was conducted using the Relative Importance Index (RII), with Microsoft Excel serving as the primary analytical tool. Findings – The study unveiled several difficulties in land acquisition, salient among which include boundary conflicts, delays in title registration, high registration costs, issues with multiple transactions, and fragmented title registration processes. Research Limitations/Implications – This study is confined to the Ashanti Region of Ghana, and therefore may not fully represent the challenges encountered in other regions. To better understand regional disparities, the research accentuates the necessity for additional comparative investigations across different regions. The proposed solutions may need adjustments to accommodate specific regional circumstances. Originality – The study provides recommendations for alleviating the obstacles related to land acquisition in Ghana’s real estate sector and offers insights into these challenges. The suggested remedies include the introduction of technology, the establishment of a one-stop shop for land services, expedited land acquisition and payment system, the selection of trustworthy chiefs, and educational initiatives. Implementing these recommendations could enhance secure land rights, stimulate economic growth, and simplify the land acquisition process in Ghana’s real estate development industry. Further research in this field is encouraged to develop tailored solutions for different regions of the nation.

Hydrothermally synthesized (N,O)-linked Cu(II)-based coordination complex as a potential antibacterial agent

The N,O-linked Cu(II)-based coordination complex was synthesized hydrothermally and characterized by SC-XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, and FE-SEM. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies showed that the complex crystallizes in a square pyramidal geometry and belongs to the monoclinic crystal system with the space group P21/n. Crystal data for C14H13CuN3O6: a = 8.7355(11) Å, b = 17.646(2) Å, c = 9.8036(12) Å, β = 98.506(6)°, V = 1494.6(3) Å3, Z = 4, μ(MoKα) = 1.500 mm-1, Dcalc = 1.701 g/cm3, 5120 reflections measured (4.616° ≤ 2Θ ≤ 49.982°), 1953 unique (Rint = 0.0316, Rsigma = 0.0718) which were used in all calculations. The final R1 was 0.0380 (I &gt; 2σ(I)) and wR2 was 0.0972 (all data). The experimental antibacterial activity studies performed using the disc diffusion method revealed that the complex is indeed acting as a good antibacterial agent against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A better understanding of the binding mechanisms was uncovered through comparative molecular docking investigations. The docking score for the target S. aureus glyrase complex with DNA (PDB id-2XCS) was found to be -7.1 kcal/mol, while the docking score for dialkylglycine decarboxylase (PDB id-1D7U) was -5.2 kcal/mol. The high docking score of the complex with the target protein allowed the complex to act as a potential antibacterial agent. These results were also supported by other theoretical studies such as DFT calculations and pharmacokinetic studies. The correlation between the HOMO-LUMO energy gap and antibacterial activity was studied computationally. Hirshfeld surface analysis and pharmacokinetic studies were also performed for this crystal for a better understanding of the intermolecular interactions and ADME properties.

Comparative Non-Destructive Investigations of the Effects of Structural Changes After Heat Treatment of Carbon Steel Samples by Magnetic Noise and Vibration Methods

The microstructure of some components that work for a long time at high temperatures changes, which leads to a reduction in their life cycle. Traditionally, the study of the resulting structures is carried out by mechanical tests and metallographic analysis. The application of non-destructive methods increases the possibilities to monitor the quality of the elements and to prevent destruction. The aim of the study is to detect changes in the microstructure after different heat treatment and ageing heating of materials via magnetic noise and vibration methods. To realize the goal, samples of high-quality medium carbon steel were prepared through targeted heat treatments, quenching and tempering at different temperatures, as well as ageing heating at temperatures of 700 o C for up to 16 hours by vibration and magnetic noise method. The natural frequencies and damping properties of forced longitudinal vibrations of various heat treated steel specimens were obtained and analyzed. Using magnetic noise method, the following parameters were obtained and analyzed: root mean square voltage (RMS), energy and envelope parameters of magnetic noise signals. The comparative application of several non-destructive methods increases the knowledge of methods and materials and makes it possible to establish their sensitivity in studying microstructural characteristics.

Assessment of Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity in Legumes (Medicago sativa, Medicago truncatula and Trifolium rubens) from Algeria and Their Influence on Soil Physicochemical and Microbiological Properties

Background: Medicago sativa, Medicago truncatula and Trifolium rubens are legumes widely distributed in Algeria. These species hold ecological and agricultural significance and serve as a natural resource for combating desertification and as livestock fodder. Methods: Comparative investigations of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization in the roots of these leguminous species were conducted. The physicochemical and microbiological attributes of AMF’s infectious potential were explored for all three species. The presence or absence of endomycorrhizal structures was assessed in these species. Result: The mycorrhizal infectious potential of the flora was significantly enhanced in the case of Medicago truncatula when compared to Trifolium rubens. Mycorrhization occurred at a frequency exceeding 80% in all three species. The impact of legume mycorrhizal fungi colonization on soil physicochemical properties was examined, revealing alterations in soil biological fertility, particularly in terms of phosphate and nitrogen content. Medicago truncatula exhibited a more pronounced positive influence on soil physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics when compared to Medicago sativa and Trifolium rubens. Consequently, these herbaceous species can be employed as nurse plants (facilitators) or as bio-fertilizers.

Unraveling the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily in aphids: Contractions and duplications linked to phloem feeding

The G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR) superfamily is the largest and most diverse transmembrane receptor family, playing crucial roles in regulating various physiological processes. As one of the most destructive pests, aphids have been subject to previous studies, which revealed fewer GPCR superfamily members in Acyrthosiphon pisum and Aphis gossypii and the loss of multiple neuropeptide GPCRs. To elucidate the contraction patterns and evolutionary features of the aphid GPCR superfamily, we identified 97, 105, and 95 GPCR genes in Rhopalosiphum maidis, A. pisum, and A. gossypii, respectively. Comparative analysis and phylogenetic investigations with other hemipteran insects revealed a contracted GPCR superfamily in aphids. This contraction mainly occurred in biogenic amine receptors, GABA-B-R, and fz families, and several neuropeptide receptors such as ACPR, CrzR, and PTHR were completely lost. This phenomenon may be related to the parasitic nature of aphids. Additionally, several GPCRs associated with aphid feeding and water balance underwent duplication, including Lkr, NPFR, CCHa1-R, and DH-R, Type A LGRs, but the SK/CCKLR that inhibits feeding was completely lost, indicating changes in feeding genes that underpin the aphid's prolonged phloem feeding behavior. Furthermore, we observed fine-tuning in opsins, with reduced long-wavelength opsins and additional duplications of short-wavelength opsin, likely associated with daytime activity. Lastly, we found variations in the number of mthl genes in aphids. In conclusion, our investigation sheds light on the GPCR superfamily in aphids, revealing its association with diet lifestyle and laying the foundation for understanding and developing control strategies for the aphid GPCR superfamily.

Tailoring Three-Dimensional Cross-Linked Networks Based on Water-Soluble Polymeric Materials for Stable Silicon Anode.

For stable battery operation of silicon (Si)-based anodes, utilizing cross-linked three-dimensional (3D) network binders has emerged as an effective strategy to mitigate significant volume fluctuations of Si particles. In the design of cross-linked network binders, careful selection of appropriate cross-linking agents is crucial to maintaining a balance between the robustness and functionality of the network. Herein, we strategically design and optimize a 3D cross-linked network binder through a comprehensive analysis of cross-linking agents. The proposed network is composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) grafted poly(acrylic acid) (PVA-g-PAA, PVgA) and aromatic diamines. PVgA is chosen as the polymer backbone owing to its high flexibility and facile synthesis using an ecofriendly water solvent. Subsequently, an aromatic diamine is employed as a cross-linker to construct a robust amide network that features a resonance-stabilized high modulus and enhanced adhesion. Comparative investigations of three cross-linkers, 2,2'-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine, 3,3'-oxidianiline, and 4,4'-oxybis[3-(trifluoromethyl)aniline] (TFODA), highlight the roles of the trifluoromethyl group (-CF3) and the ether linkage. Consequently, PVgA cross-linked with TFODA (PVgA-TFODA), featuring both -CF3 and -O-, establishes a well-balanced 3D network characterized by heightened elasticity and improved binding forces. The optimized Si and SiOx/graphite composite electrodes with the PVgA-TFODA binder demonstrate impressive structural stability and stable cycling. This study offers a novel perspective on designing cross-linked network binders, showcasing the benefits of a multidimensional approach considering chemical and physical interactions.

On the structure of the Ti-Si-C-based composite obtained by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis with the use of graphene

Composite materials based on the Ti-Si-C system were obtained by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis with the use of carbon black and graphene as a source of carbon. The comparative investigations of the phase composition and structure of the materials were performed by X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. It is shown that in the sample obtained with carbon black, ∼ 94 wt.% of MAX-phase Ti3SiC2 is formed. When graphene is used, the content of the MAX phase is heterogeneous throughout the sample volume and is in the range of ∼ 67 – 90 wt.%.