Light Reduction Research Articles

Synergistic CdS@CeO2 nanocomposites: Harnessing Z-scheme electron transfer for enhanced photocatalytic CO2 conversion and aqueous Cr(VI) reduction

The present work describes the fabrication of CdS-D@CeO2 Z-scheme heterojunctions as highly stable, efficient and recyclable photocatalysts for the visible light assisted reduction of CO2 to methanol as well as Cr(VI) to Cr(III). The bare CeO2 produced methanol with the rate of 111 μmolh−1g−1 that is much lower in comparison to CdS-D@CeO2 (501 μmolh−1g−1). In addition, the photocatalytic efficiency remained nearly same for three successive runs, indicating the higher stability and recycling ability of the heterojunctions CdS-D@CeO2. It was also observed that under direct sunlight irradiation, CdS-D@CeO2 efficiently reduced 100% Cr(VI) to Cr(III) in an aqueous medium in just 40 minutes. Moreover, >95% removal was maintained even after 5 catalytic cycles. Additionally, for mimicking real contaminated water samples, the influence of the foreign ions on Cr(VI) reduction was evaluated by using lake water sample and no adverse effects on the result were observed. Thus, this work showed a way to develop cost-effective, easily synthesized, durable and recyclable composite photocatalysts for CO2 utilization and proficient removal of waste water pollutants by employing the clean, green, and renewable solar energy.

Biodegradable thermochromic polylactic acid (PLA) sensor

Abstract This study investigates the development of polylactic acid (PLA) by incorporating thermochromic black pigments (TCB) at varying concentrations of 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 wt% through the process of melt blending. The color transition and reversion behaviors of the resulting specimens were examined at different temperatures (−10, 10, 30, 35 and 50 °C) using colorimetric analysis. Additionally, mechanical properties, thermal characteristic and thermal stability were assessed through tensile testing, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively. The study revealed that an increase in TCB concentrations led to a reduction in lightness (L*). Higher pigment content enhanced thermochromic properties, resulting in more pronounced color changes. The total color difference (ΔE) remained reproducible over five cycles of heating and freezing, and this reproducibility persisted after thermal aging. Tensile strength and elongation at break exhibited improvement with increasing pigment content. Glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) of the thermochromic samples showed minimal reduction compared to that of neat PLA, which is 64.2 °C. Crystallinity degree (Xc) increased slightly by 0.2–0.92 %. The thermal stability of the PLA matrix was only marginally affected by the presence of thermochromic pigments.

Magnetic recyclable visible light-driven Bi2WO6/Fe3O4/RGO for photocatalytic degradation of Microcystin-LR: Mechanism, pathway, and influencing factors

Photocatalysis was an attractive strategy that had potential to tackle the Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) contamination of aquatic ecosystems. Herein, magnetic photocatalyst Fe3O4/Bi2WO6/Reduced graphene oxide composites (Bi2WO6/Fe3O4/RGO) were employed to degrade MC-LR. The removal efficiency and kinetic constant of the optimized Bi2WO6/Fe3O4/RGO (Bi2WO6/Fe3O4-40%/RGO) was 1.8 and 2.3 times stronger than the pure Bi2WO6. The improved activity of Bi2WO6/Fe3O4-40%/RGO was corresponded to the expanded visible light adsorption ability and reduction of photogenerated carrier recombination efficiency through the integration of Bi2WO6 and Fe3O4-40%/RGO. The MC-LR removal efficiency exhibited a positive tendency to the initial density of algae cells, fulvic acid, and the concentration of MC-LR decreased. The existed anions (Cl−, CO3−2, NO3−, H2PO4−) reduced MC-LR removal efficiency of Bi2WO6/Fe3O4-40%/RGO. The Bi2WO6/Fe3O4-40%/RGO could degrade 79.3% of MC-LR at pH = 7 after 180 min reaction process. The trapping experiments and ESR tests confirmed that the h+, ∙OH, and ∙O2− played a significant role in MC-LR degradation. The LC-MS/MS result revealed the intermediates and possible degradation pathways.

Neighborhood Light at Night and Noise Levels, and Long-Term Sleep Trajectories in the Southern Community Cohort Study.

While light at night (LAN) and noise levels have been linked to suboptimal sleep outcomes, little is known about the link between these factors and long-term suboptimal sleep trajectories. The current study examined the association of neighborhood LAN and nighttime noise with long-term sleep trajectories in a cohort of Black individuals and White individuals predominantly from low-income communities. We used data from the Southern Community Cohort Study (N = 28,759 Black individuals and 16,276 White individuals). Sleep duration was self-reported at baseline and after an average of five years of follow-up, based on which we constructed nine sleep trajectories: normal-normal (optimal, reference), short-short, long-long, short-long, long-short, normal-short, normal-long, short-normal, and long-normal. LAN and nighttime noise were derived from satellite imagery and model-based estimates, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between LAN and noise exposures and sleep trajectories. Higher exposures to LAN and nighttime noise were associated with multiple suboptimal long-term sleep trajectories. In the total sample, higher LAN was associated with higher odds of long-long (OR Q5 vs. Q1 = 1.23 (CI = 1.02, 1.48)) and long-short (OR = 1.35 (CI = 1.06, 1.72)) trajectories, while higher nighttime noise was associated with short-short (1.19 (1.07, 1.31)), long-short (1.31 (1.05, 1.64)), and normal-song (1.16 (1.01, 1.34)) trajectories. Black and White individual-specific results showed qualitatively similar patterns between Black individuals and White individuals, although we also observed suggestive evidence for Black-White individual differences. In conclusion, elevated LAN and nighttime noise levels were associated with various suboptimal long-term sleep trajectories. However, it is noteworthy that the light and noise measures in our study may not accurately reflect individual-level exposures, and residual confounding from other factors is a concern. Future studies should use more accurate exposure measurements, collect information on and control for a wider range of factors, and examine whether reductions in neighborhood light and noise levels may contribute to improved long-term sleep health.

A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON THE FUTURE OF CURTAIN DESIGN PATTERNS

The study, "A Comprehensive Study on the Future of Curtain Design Patterns," explores the evolving trends and technological advancements shaping the curtain industry. The research highlights key findings that reveal a shift towards sustainable and smart textiles, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly and technologically integrated home furnishings. Patterns are moving away from traditional designs to embrace more abstract, geometric, and nature-inspired motifs, reflecting broader societal trends towards minimalism and biophilia. One of the significant discoveries is the impact of digital printing technology, which allows for greater customization and intricate designs that were previously unfeasible. This advancement is expected to revolutionize the market by offering consumers bespoke options that cater to individual tastes and spatial requirements. Additionally, the study identifies a growing preference for multifunctional curtains equipped with smart features, such as light control, temperature regulation, and noise reduction, enhancing the functionality of living spaces.The research also underscores the importance of sustainability, noting a rise in the use of organic materials and recycled fabrics. This trend aligns with the global movement towards reducing environmental footprints and promotes the adoption of circular economy principles within the textile industry. In summary, the study provides a forward-looking perspective on curtain design, emphasizing the interplay between technology, aesthetics, and sustainability. The findings suggest that future curtain designs will not only serve decorative purposes but also integrate advanced functionalities, catering to the evolving needs of modern consumers. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights for designers, manufacturers, and retailers aiming to stay ahead in a competitive and rapidly changing market.

Development of fibre-rich okara-based expanded snack via single screw extrusion

Okara is a by-product of the soymilk and tofu manufacturing industry. Recently, changes in lifestyle and eating patterns led to higher demands for snack foods produced via extrusion technology. Extruded products enriched with okara, which consists of high dietary fibre content, can increase the nutritional quality of extruded snacks with higher commercial values. This study aimed to determine the influence of okara levels; 0, 5, 10, and 15% (w/w) on properties of extrudates in terms of fibre content, water activity, bulk density, expansion ratio, colour, textural (hardness and crispness), and microstructure. The increment of okara level resulted in the reduction of water activity, expansion ratio, lightness, and crispness of extrudates while, soluble and insoluble dietary fibre content, bulk density, and hardness were increased. Extrudate produced at higher levels of okara had a rougher surface, smaller air cells, and thicker walls. A collapse in cell structure was observed at 15% okara. In conclusion, fibre-enriched extrudate with desirable characteristics can be obtained at a 5% okara level. This study provides a promising application in harnessing the nutritional benefits of okara.

Effects of Flooding and Shade on Survival, Growth, and Leaf Gas Exchange of Bottomland Tree Species across the Great Lakes Region (USA)

Forested wetlands are common ecosystems within the Great Lakes region (Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin), USA. Projected increases in extreme flooding events and shifting disturbance regimes create challenges for tree regeneration. Forest managers are considering the use of enrichment planting to increase tree species diversity, but limited information is available that quantifies the interactions between the flooding and shade tolerances of candidate tree species. We used a microcosm experiment to manipulate shade and flooding conditions to determine the effects on early survival, growth, and leaf gas exchange of 23 different tree species that vary in shade and flood tolerance. Seedlings were planted in pots and placed in 227 L tanks that were randomly assigned to light reduction (full sun, 40% and 70% reduced sunlight) and flood treatments (water levels of 0, 14, or 27 cm below the soil surface). In general, flooding treatments had a greater influence on seedling growth and leaf gas exchange rates than light reduction treatments. Of the species studied, bald cypress (Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich.) was the most flood-tolerant, but American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis L.) and river birch (Betula nigra L.) were also highly tolerant of flooding conditions throughout the entire growing season. The flood tolerances of the remaining species varied, but none were tolerant of water table depths within 14 cm of the soil surface for the entire growing season. Most species did not respond to the shade treatments in terms of early growth, survival, and leaf gas exchange. When considering species for planting in forested wetlands, matching the flood tolerance of candidate species to local site hydrology is an important step.

Effect of coffee staining and simulated oral hygiene methods on the color and translucency of a nanoceramic resin.

Evaluate the color and translucency of a nanoceramic resin subjected to hygiene practices and immersion in coffee over time. Specimens (n = 80, HT and LT, 0.5-mm thick) of a nanoceramic resin were obtained and were divided in groups according to the simulated oral hygiene: no intervention (NT), brushing with an electric brush and water (BN), brushing with an electric brush and toothpaste for 10 s (BT), and immersion in mouthwash for 30 s (MW). Oral hygiene practices were repeated after staining in coffee solution for 15, 48, 336, 1440, 8640, and 35,040 min. Spectral wavelengths were recorded with a spectrophotometer at each time. ∆E00, ∆L', ∆C', ∆H', and TP00 were calculated by CIEDE2000 and were evaluated by 2-way ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD test (α = 0.05). ANOVA showed significance among factors for ΔE00 (p < 0.05), with higher ΔE00 for NT-HT (11.7) and NT-LT (11.2). After T6 (2-year simulation), the lowest values were found for BT-HT (5.3) and BT-LT (4.9). All groups showed a reduction in lightness and translucency and increased chroma and hue. However, the smallest variations were found in the BT groups (p < 0.05). Brushing with toothpaste effectively minimized the color change of NCRs caused by coffee staining. Oral hygiene practices, such as brushing with toothpaste, might be important to minimize staining of nanoceramic resin restorations, especially in patients who frequently consume coffee.

Geochemical evidence for biodegradation in high-rank coals from Qinshui Basin, North China

Understanding the generation of secondary microbial methane (SMM) is important for the evaluation of natural gas resources and instructive for the stimulation of methane production. Coal seams are popular targets for extracting in situ preserved methane and studying microbe-stimulated methane yield. However, few studies have been done on overmature coals. Here we collected gas samples from coals varying from bituminous to meta-anthracite in the Qinshui Basin, North China, and analysed the molecular and stable isotopic compositions to systematically evaluate the influence of biodegradation in high-rank coals in geological settings. The stable isotope signatures (δ13C and δD) of methane are dominated by the thermal decomposition of organic matter in deep coals but inconsistent with the maturity rank of shallow burial coals. The decoupling of coal maturity with C1/C2+ ratios and δ13C-CH4 values, and positive δ13C-CO2 values (−9.2 to +24.4 ‰) suggest biodegradation of light wet gases (C2+ components) and CO2 reduction. Negative trends between δ13C-CO2 and CH4/CO2 in shallow burial coal seams reveal the mutual conversion of CH4 and CO2 and carbon isotope exchange, driven by microorganisms. The calculated isotopic temperatures (33–328 °C) based on the carbon isotope fractionation factors between CH4 and CO2 (1.024–1.069) demonstrate that carbon isotope exchange is prevalent in high-rank coals. It also reveals that the burial depth is an imperative factor in controlling microbial environments and thus the biodegradation process. This study implicates the potential of high-rank coals as the target for microbial-enhanced methane recovery and also implies that microorganisms are widely involved in reservoir carbon cycling.

The mechanism of low blue light-induced leaf senescence mediated by GmCRY1s in soybean

Leaf senescence is a crucial trait that has a significant impact on crop quality and yield. Previous studies have demonstrated that light is a key factor in modulating the senescence process. However, the precise mechanism by which plants sense light and control senescence remains largely unknown, particularly in crop species. In this study, we reveal that the reduction in blue light under shading conditions can efficiently induce leaf senescence in soybean. The blue light receptors GmCRY1s rather than GmCRY2s, primarily regulate leaf senescence in response to blue light signals. Our results show that GmCRY1s interact with DELLA proteins under light-activated conditions, stabilizing them and consequently suppressing the transcription of GmWRKY100 to delay senescence. Conversely, LBL reduces the interaction between GmCRY1s and the DELLA proteins, leading to their degradation and premature senescence of leaves. Our findings suggest a GmCRY1s-GmDELLAs-GmWRKY100 regulatory cascade that is involved in mediating LBL-induced leaf senescence in soybean, providing insight into the mechanism of how light signals regulate leaf senescence. Additionally, we generate GmWRKY100 knockout soybeans that show delayed leaf senescence and improved yield under natural field conditions, indicating potential applications in enhancing soybean production by manipulating the leaf senescence trait.

Comparative gene co-expression networks show enrichment of brassinosteroid and vitamin B processes in a seagrass under simulated ocean warming and extreme climatic events.

Ocean warming combined with extreme climatic events, such as marine heatwaves and flash flooding events, threaten seagrasses globally. How seagrasses cope with these challenges is uncertain, particularly for range-edge populations of species such as Posidonia australis in Shark Bay, Western Australia. Analyzing gene expression while manipulating multiple stressors provides insight into the genetic response and resilience of seagrasses to climate change. We conducted a gene expression study on a polyploid clone of P. australis during an 18-week mesocosm experiment to assess the responses to single and combined future climate change-associated stressors. Plants were exposed to (1) future ocean warming temperature (baseline +1.5°C) followed by a simulated marine heat wave (baseline +5.5°C), (2) light deprivation simulating observed marine heatwave driven turbidity (95% shade) at baseline temperatures, or (3) both stressors simultaneously. Basal leaf meristems were sampled for gene expression analysis using RNA-seq at four time points during the experiment. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis, GO term enrichment, and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were used to identify stress responses. Shaded plants showed specific gene enrichment for shade avoidance (programmed cell death) after three weeks of stress, and before any heated tanks showed a specific heat response. Shaded plants were positively correlated with programmed cell death and stress-related processes at the end of the experiment. Once ocean warming temperatures (+1.5°C) were in effect, gene enrichment for heat stress (e.g., ROS scavenging and polyamine metabolism) was present. Vitamin B processes, RNA polymerase II processes. and light-related meristematic phase changes were expressed with the addition of simulated MHW. Heated plants showed meristematic growth signatures as well as trehalose and salicylic acid metabolism. Brassinosteroid-related processes were significantly enriched in all stressor treatments at all time points, except for the isolated heat-stressed plants three weeks after stressor initiation. Gene expression responses to the interaction between heat waves and turbidity-induced light reduction support the observed geographical scale mortality in seagrasses observed for P. australis in Shark Bay, suggesting that even this giant polyploid clone will be negatively impacted by more extreme climate change projections.

OPTIMIZATION OF INTERSECTION PERFORMANCE AND VEHICLE TRAFFIC FLOW AT INTERSECTION FOUR DHOHO PLAZA KEDIRI CITY USING MKJI METHOD 1997

Kediri is the third largest city in East Java after Surabaya and Malang with a population growth of 289,418 people in 2023. The International Airport will open at the end of 2023 in Kediri. However, rapid population growth has also led to an increase in mobility and the number of motorized vehicles on the streets of Kediri City, including at the research site in Dhoho Plaza. The analysis of the signaled intersection was carried out using the MKJI 1997 method, and Visual PTV Vissim for three days on Monday, Friday, and Sunday. Based on the results of the analysis, a cycle time of 90.7 was obtained which affected saturation in each arm of the intersection. There is a potential reduction in signal light waiting time from 135 seconds to 118 seconds by repairing side obstacles. The solution to overcome side obstacles is to improve facilities such as traffic lights and adjust the timing of signal lights. The change in the value of side barriers also has a significant impact on waiting times, queues, and fuel costs at the intersection of Pasar Pahing, with congestion cost efficiency reaching Rp. 22,679,183 in the next 5 years.

Plant axillary stem gall extract mediated bioengineered CuO nanoprisms as robust and reusable catalyst for photocatalytic and catalytic degradation of water pollutants

The current work explains the synthesis of bioengineered CuO nanoprisms using axillary stem gall extract of the Ziziphus mauritiana plant. The photocatalytic and catalytic reduction potential of bioengineered CuO nanoprisms was analyzed for the photo-mineralization of methylene blue (MB) organic dye under exposure to visible light and catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in the presence of NaBH4 solution. The biogenic CuO nanoprisms were characterized using XRD, FTIR, FESEM, EDS, and UV–Vis. spectroscopic techniques. The mean crystallite size of CuO nanoprisms was estimated to be 34.24 nm while the band gap energy value was found to be 1.47 eV. 99.21 % of MB dye was photo-mineralized within 70 min of visible light illumination at pH=5 and 30 mg of catalyst whereas 4-NP was almost completely reduced to 4-AP within 5 min in the presence of bioengineered CuO (NPs). The data of photo-mineralization of MB dye and catalytic reduction of 4-NP well agreed to the pseudo-first-order kinetics with the rate constant values of 63.86 × 10−3 and 0.8439 min−1, respectively. The reactive species entrapping studies revealed that •OH radicals were the key active species affianced in the photo-mineralization of MB dye. Photostability and reusability tests established that only a 9 % decline in the dye degradation efficiency of bioengineered CuO was observed after the fifth cycle of reuse under visible light irradiation.

Short-term middle Eocene (Bartonian) paleoenvironmental changes in the sedimentary succession of Olivetta San Michele (NW Italy): the response of shallow-water biota to climate in NW Tethys

This study focuses on the paleontological content of the middle Eocene (Bartonian) carbonate–siliciclastic sediments of the Capo Mortola Calcarenite Formation from Olivetta San Michele (Liguria, Italy). Along the succession, there are significant paleoecological changes triggered by the variation in neritic input as a consequence of tectonic and climatic instability. Among microfossils, nummulitids prevail, followed by orthophragmines, smaller benthic, and planktonic foraminifera, whereas mollusks and ichnofossils are the most abundant macrofossils. The sudden changes in the benthic communities due to the progressive increase in fluvial input are recorded throughout the sedimentary succession. An increase in water turbidity caused stressful conditions for autotrophic taxa, reducing their size and abundance. In contrast, filter feeders became dominant, suggesting an increase in dissolved and suspended nutrients. Ichnological analysis shows environmental fluctuations controlled by the transport of neritic material offshore, thus confirming the general deepening trend of the studied succession. In the upper part of the succession, we recorded an alternation between gravity flows and marly sediments that are interpreted as short-term alternations between low and intense precipitations. The gravity flows yield taxa such as larger benthic foraminifera (LBF), smaller benthic and planktonic foraminifera, mollusks, and corals. In turn, marls display only a few LBF and abundant smaller benthic and planktonic foraminifera. In these intervals, the increase in planktonic foraminifera also suggests a deepening of the carbonate ramp coinciding with a reduction of light that did not favor the development of LBF. These changes are probably related to the climatic dynamics that occurred in the Bartonian in the western Tethys.

Can a dentin bonding agent prevent color change in regenerative endodontic procedures? An in vitro evaluation.

This in vitro study aimed to determine the efficacy of dentin bonding agents in preventing color changes following Regenerative Endodontic Procedures. One hundred twenty bovine incisors were endodontically prepared and randomly assigned to a two main factors design: application of a dentin bonding agent (Scotchbond Adper, 3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) in the pulp chamber (Group 1, n=60) versus no bonding intervention (Group 2, n=60), and five levels of intracanal medication (n=12/subgroup): Triple antibiotic paste (TAP), double antibiotic paste (DAB), calcium hydroxide (CH), modified triple antibiotic paste (TAPM), and Control (CTL). Color changes were measured over 28 days at multiple time points (1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days) using the CIEDE2000 formula to calculate the color difference (ΔE00) from baseline (T0). The ΔE00 quantifies the perceptible color difference between the initial and final tooth color, with lower values indicating less discoloration. The results were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA-2 and post-hoc Holm-Sidak tests. The TAP subgroups, both with and without the bonding agent, exhibited the highest color variation. However, a pulp chamber seal with a bonding agent showed a protective effect against discoloration compared to no seal, even though complete prevention was not achieved. All groups demonstrated ΔE00 values beyond acceptable interpretation thresholds for clinical application, primarily driven by a reduction in lightness (L*) and a decrease in redness (a* value, shifting towards green). In conclusion, while the pulp chamber seal with a bonding agent mitigated TAP-induced discoloration, it did not eliminate it.

Identification of candidate genes and development of KASP markers for soybean shade-tolerance using GWAS.

Shade has a direct impact on photosynthesis and production of plants. Exposure to shade significantly reduces crops yields. Identifying shade-tolerant genomic loci and soybean varieties is crucial for improving soybean yields. In this study, we applied a shade treatment (30% light reduction) to a natural soybean population consisting of 264 accessions, and measured several traits, including the first pod height, plant height, pod number per plant, grain weight per plant, branch number, and main stem node number. Additionally, we performed GWAS on these six traits with and without shade treatment, as well as on the shade tolerance coefficients (STCs) of the six traits. As a result, we identified five shade-tolerance varieties, 733 SNPs and four candidate genes over two years. Furthermore, we developed four kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) makers for the STC of S18_1766721, S09_48870909, S19_49517336, S18_3429732. This study provides valuable genetic resources for breeding soybean shade tolerance and offers new insights into the theoretical research on soybean shade tolerance.

Bifunctional S-scheme CdSSe/Bi2WO6 heterojunction catalysts exhibit generalized boosting performance in photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride, photoelectrochemical and electrocatalytic hydrogen production

In this work, by a simple method of hydrothermal synthesis, the CdSSe/Bi2WO6 S-scheme heterojunction catalyst is successfully obtained and the results are verified by XPS, EPR, band structure, etc. The S-scheme heterojunction can maintain the strong redox potential energy position of both catalysts, and adjust the electron transfer path to improve the electron-hole separation efficiency, and thus improve the charge transfer efficiency. CdSSe has a high conduction band (−1.13 eV) and a narrow bandgap width (1.59 eV), exhibiting good light absorption characteristics and reduction ability; the valence band position of Bi2WO6 is much low (2.58 eV), indicating good oxidation activity. This heterojunction has excellent oxidation and reduction capabilities and exhibits multifunctional catalysts. Its photocatalytic degradation ability of tetracycline hydrochloride is 2.2 times that of the original CdSSe, while its photoelectrochemical activity is 11 times that of CdSSe, reaching a photocurrent density of − 2.081 mA/cm2 at 0 V (vs. RHE). The electrocatalytic activity of its hydrogen evolution has also been enhanced. This study developed a design strategy for a novel bifunctional S-scheme heterojunction catalyst.

Temperature sensitivity of detrital photosynthesis.

Kelp forests are increasingly considered blue carbon habitats for ocean-based biological carbon dioxide removal, but knowledge gaps remain in our understanding of their carbon cycle. Of particular interest is the remineralization of detritus, which can remain photosynthetically active. Here, we study a widespread, thermotolerant kelp (Ecklonia radiata) to explore detrital photosynthesis as a mechanism underlying temperature and light as two key drivers of remineralization. We used meta-analysis to constrain the thermal optimum (Topt) of E. radiata. Temperature and light were subsequently controlled over a 119-day ex situ decomposition experiment. Flow-through experimental tanks were kept in darkness at 15 °C or under a subcompensating maximal irradiance of 8 µmol photons m-2 s-1 at 15, 20 or 25 °C. Photosynthesis of laterals (analogues to leaves) was estimated using closed-chamber oxygen evolution in darkness and under a saturating irradiance of 420 µmol photons m-2 s-1. T opt of E. radiata is 18 °C across performance variables (photosynthesis, growth, abundance, size, mass and fertility), life stages (gametophyte and sporophyte) and populations. Our models predict that a temperature of >15 °C reduces the potential for E. radiata detritus to be photosynthetically viable, hence detrital Topt ≤ 15 °C. Detritus is viable under subcompensating irradiance, where it performs better than in darkness. Comparison of net and gross photosynthesis indicates that elevated temperature primarily decreases detrital photosynthesis, whereas darkness primarily increases detrital respiration compared with optimal experimental conditions, in which detrital photosynthesis can persist for ≥119 days. T opt of kelp detritus is ≥3 °C colder than that of the intact plant. Given that E. radiata is one of the most temperature-tolerant kelps, this suggests that photosynthesis is generally more thermosensitive in the detrital phase, which partly explains the enhancing effect of temperature on remineralization. In contrast to darkness, even subcompensating irradiance maintains detrital viability, elucidating the accelerating effect of depth and its concomitant light reduction on remineralization to some extent. Detrital photosynthesis is a meaningful mechanism underlying at least two drivers of remineralization, even below the photoenvironment inhabited by the attached alga.

Effect of ultraviolet and green radiation and temperature on flight activity and foraging of three tropical stingless bees

Stingless bees (Apidae, Meliponini) comprise a group of eusocial bees with great potential for use in greenhouse pollination. However, low light and increased temperature in these protected systems can compromise bee performance. This study evaluated the effect of reduced light incidence and intensity in the spectral range of ultraviolet (∼ 345 nm) and green (∼ 540 nm) and increased temperature on bee acclimation and foraging behaviour of three tropical stingless bee species (Melipona quadrifasciata, Frieseomelitta varia, and Scaptotrigona cf. postica) in experimental arenas. For M. quadrifasciata foraging was more frequent in the mild-temperature treatments and was not affected by UV and green light reduction. However, Frieseomelitta varia was more active in treatments with higher light incidence and intensity in the UV and green range. In conditions of mild temperature and high luminosity, there was an increase in foraging activity for this species throughout the days of confinement. Lastly, S. cf. postica had the greatest difficulty acclimating, even under conditions of high light incidence and mild temperature. Taken together, our results show that the environmental conditions evaluated (i.e., reduced UV and green light incidence and increased temperature) differentially affected stingless bee species. These results reinforce the need for specific management strategies when using tropical stingless bees as pollinators for greenhouse crops.

Optical clearing of human skin: Molecular modeling and in vivo OCT study.

The results of in vivo immersion optical clearing of human skin under the action of two different optical clearing agents (OCAs), such as an aqueous sucrose solution and a radiographic contrast agent Omnipaque™ 300 (iohexol), were obtained with the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) method. The rate of reduction of light scattering coefficient, obtained through an averaged A-scan of the OCT image in the region of dermis within the depths from 350 to 700 μm, were determined to evaluate the efficiency of optical clearing (EOC). The correlations between the EOC and the energy of intermolecular interaction of OCAs with a fragment of collagen peptide have been established as a result of molecular modeling by quantum chemistry methods HF/STO3G/DFT/B3LYP/6-311G(d) of a number of OCAs (glycerol, iohexol, sucrose, ribose, fructose, glucose) with mimetic peptide of collagen (GPH)3 .