Minor Decline Research Articles

Influence of Oligomeric Lactic Acid and Structural Design on Biodegradation and Absorption of PLA-PHB Blends for Tissue Engineering

The advancing development in biomaterials and biology has enabled the extension of 3D printing technology to the bioadditive manufacturing of degradable hard tissue substitutes. One of the key advantages of bioadditive manufacturing is that it has much smaller design limitations than conventional manufacturing and is therefore capable of producing implants with complex geometries. In this study, three distinct blends of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) were produced using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology. Two of these blends were plasticized with oligomeric lactic acid (OLA) at concentrations of 5 wt% and 10 wt%, while the third blend remained unplasticized. Each blend was fabricated in two structural modifications: solid and porous. The biodegradation behavior of the produced specimens was examined through an in vitro experiment using three different immersion solutions: saline solution, Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS), and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). All examined samples were also subjected to chemical analysis: atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The results of the degradation experiments indicated a predominantly better absorption capacity of the samples with a porous structure compared to the full structure. At the same time, the blend containing a higher concentration of OLA exhibited enhanced pH stability over the evaluation period, maintaining relatively constant pH values before experiencing a minor decline at the end of the study. This observation indicates that the increased presence of the plasticizer may provide a buffering effect, effectively mitigating the acidification associated with material degradation.

Spatial–Temporal Variations and Driving Factors of the Albedo of the Qilian Mountains from 2001 to 2022

Surface albedo plays a pivotal role in the Earth’s energy balance and climate. This study conducted an analysis of the spatial distribution patterns and temporal evolution of albedo, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), normalized difference snow index snow cover (NSC), and land surface temperature (LST) within the Qilian Mountains (QLMs) from 2001 to 2022. This study evaluated the spatiotemporal correlations of albedo with NSC, NDVI, and LST at various temporal scales. Additionally, the study quantified the driving forces and relative contributions of topographic and natural factors to the albedo variation of the QLMs using geographic detectors. The findings revealed the following insights: (1) Approximately 22.8% of the QLMs exhibited significant changes in albedo. The annual average albedo and NSC exhibited a minor decline with rates of −0.00037 and −0.05083 (Sen’s slope), respectively. Conversely, LST displayed a marginal increase at a rate of 0.00564, while NDVI experienced a notable increase at a rate of 0.00178. (2) The seasonal fluctuations of NSC, LST, and vegetation collectively influenced the overall albedo changes in the Qilian Mountains. Notably, the highly similar trends and significant correlations between albedo and NSC, whether in intra-annual monthly variations, multi-year monthly anomalies, or regional multi-year mean trends, indicate that the changes in snow albedo reflected by NSC played a major role. Additionally, the area proportion and corresponding average elevation of PSI (permanent snow and ice regions) slightly increased, potentially suggesting a slow upward shift of the high mountain snowline in the QLMs. (3) NDVI, land cover type (LCT), and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM, which means elevation) played key roles in shaping the spatial pattern of albedo. Additionally, the spatial distribution of albedo was most significantly influenced by the interaction between slope and NDVI.

Two decades of progress in glioma methylation research: the rise of temozolomide resistance and immunotherapy insights.

This study aims to systematically analyze the global trends in glioma methylation research using bibliometric methodologies. We focus on identifying the scholarly trajectory and key research interests, and we utilize these insights to predict future research directions within the epigenetic context of glioma. We performed a comprehensive literature search of the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) to identify articles related to glioma methylation published from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2023. The analysis included full-text publications in the English language and excluded non-research publications. Analysis and visualization were performed using GraphPad Prism, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer software. The search identified 3,744 publications within the WoSCC database, including 3,124 original research articles and 620 review articles. The research output gradually increased from 2004 to 2007, followed by a significant increase after 2008, which peaked in 2022. A minor decline in publication output was noted during 2020-2021, potentially linked to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The United States and China were the leading contributors, collectively accounting for 57.85% of the total research output. The Helmholtz Association of Germany, the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), and the Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg were the most productive institutions. The Journal of Neuro-Oncology led in terms of publication volume, while Neuro-Oncology had the highest Impact Factor. The analysis of publishing authors revealed Michael Weller as the most prolific contributor. The co-citation network analysis identified David N. Louis's article as the most frequently cited. The keyword analysis revealed "temozolomide," "expression," "survival," and "DNA methylation" as the most prominent keywords, while "heterogeneity," "overall survival," and "tumor microenvironment" showed the strongest citation bursts. The findings of this study illustrate the increasing scholarly interest in glioma methylation, with a notable increase in research output over the past two decades. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape, highlighting the importance of temozolomide, DNA methylation, and the tumor microenvironment in glioma research. Despite its limitations, this study offers valuable insights into the current research trends and potential future directions, particularly in the realm of immunotherapy and epigenetic editing techniques.

Longitudinal Analysis of Functional Capacity in Nursing Home Residents During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about nursing home (NH) residents' well-being, with recent studies indicating a significant increase in functional decline rate during this critical period. However, a comprehensive exploration of functional capacity trajectories in NH residents during the pandemic remains unexplored. This study aims to address this research gap by conducting an in-depth analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on NH residents' functional capacity. A 24-month multicenter prospective study involving 123 NH residents from Spain, with data collected at 6-month intervals over 5 waves, starting just before the pandemic's onset. Functional capacity was assessed using the Modified Barthel Index, and data were analyzed employing the actuarial method, log-rank test, and Cox's regression. The likelihood of maintaining functional capacity was unfavorable, with only a 19.3% chance of preservation for a 1-point decline (FD-1) in Barthel scores and a 50.5% probability for a 10-point decline (FD-10). Personal hygiene, eating, and toilet use were identified as the most affected activities of daily living. Urinary continence decline emerged as a risk factor for FD-1, while fecal continence decline was associated with FD-10. The probability of maintaining functional capacity in the initial 6months of a pandemic was comparable to a 2-year non-pandemic follow-up. Pandemic-induced isolation strategies significantly impacted toileting and personal hygiene. Urinary decline was associated with minor functional decline (FD-1), while fecal decline correlated with major functional decline (FD-10). Notably, the number of days spent in room confinement did not significantly contribute to the observed decline. A substantial increase in the risk of FD among NH residents during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period was found. It is crucial to implement urgent, targeted interventions that prioritize promoting physical activity and the implementation of mobility and toileting programs. These measures are pivotal for mitigating functional decline and enhancing the overall health and well-being of NH residents in a pandemic context.

Unveiling the potency of tetrahydropalmitine as a green anticorrosion material for 2024 aluminum alloy in acid-chloride environments

2024 aluminum alloy has garnered attention from researchers because of its numerous applications in the oil and gas, aerospace, and marine sectors. However, its constituent high Cu content (the primary alloying element) poses a significant challenge to its use, particularly in applications that demand high corrosion resistance. This is particularly troubling in oxygen-containing chloride systems. Herein, we developed a protection strategy for 2024 Al alloy in an acid-chloride environment (composed of 0.5 M NaCl and 0.25 M H2SO4) using natural tetrahydropalmitine (THP) isolated from Corydalis yanhusuo. THP was effectively characterized from its 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and FTIR spectra, and its anticorrosion potentials were methodically investigated by electrochemical, gravimetry and theoretical experiments. Upon the addition of THP to the test system, EIS measurements revealed a steady increase in the Nyquist semicircles, as well as the Bode impedance and phase angle plots, attaining an optimum inhibition efficiency of 91.5 % at 2.0 g/L THP. Tafel plots manifested mixed-type anticorrosion effects with dominant cathodic properties, ascribed to the ordered shielding effect of both the hydrogen evolution reaction and the oxidation of oxide-free ions. According to gravimetric corrosion assessment, the 2024 Al alloy mainly retained its protection over time in the presence of THP, exhibiting only minor decline in its protectability. This is attributed to the combined effect of stable oxide film formation and the adsorbed THP on the alloy surface. SEM afforded the proof of THP adsorption on 2024 Al while XPS offered clarity into its anticorrosion mechanism. Conceptual DFT parameters, molecular electrostatic potential and molecular dynamics simulation were used to comprehend the inhibition process of THP on Al surface. Generally, THP was proven to be a viable and sustainable bio-based anticorrosion material for the protection of 2024 Al alloy.

Variation in gaze following across the life span: A process-level perspective.

Following eye gaze is fundamental for many social-cognitive abilities, for example, when judging what another agent can or cannot know. While the emergence of gaze following has been thoroughly studied on a group level, we know little about (a) the developmental trajectory beyond infancy and (b) the sources of individual differences. In Study 1, we examined gaze following across the lifespan (N=478 3- to 19-year-olds from Leipzig, Germany; and N=240 20- to 80-year-old international, remotely tested adults). We found a steep performance improvement during preschool years, in which children became more precise in locating the attentional focus of an agent. Precision levels then stayed comparably stable throughout adulthood with a minor decline toward old age. In Study 2, we formalized the process of gaze following in a computational cognitive model that allowed us to conceptualize individual differences in a psychologically meaningful way (N=60 3- to 5-year-olds, 50 adults). According to our model, participants estimate pupil angles with varying levels of precision based on observing the pupil location within the agent's eyes. In Study 3, we empirically tested how gaze following relates to vector following in non-social settings and perspective-taking abilities (N=102 4- to 5-year-olds). We found that gaze following is associated with both of these abilities but less so with other Theory of Mind tasks. This work illustrates how the combination of reliable measurement instruments and formal theoretical models allows us to explore the in(ter)dependence of core social-cognitive processes in greater detail. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Gaze following develops beyond infancy. The highest precision levels in localizing attentional foci are reached in young adulthood with a slight decrease towards old age. We present a computational model that describes gaze following as a process of estimating pupil angles and the corresponding gaze vectors. The model explains individual differences and recovers signature patterns in the data. To estimate the relation between gaze- and vector following, we designed a non-social vector following task. We found substantial correlations between gaze following and vector following, as well as Level 2 perspective-taking. Other Theory of Mind tasks did not correlate.

Effect of hybrid filler comprising cryptocrystalline graphite and multi‐wall carbon nanotubes on the mechanical and conductive properties of styrene butadiene rubber

AbstractStyrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites reinforced by cryptocrystalline graphite (CG) and multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared. The SBR composite with 50 phr CG content displays superior mechanical reinforcement achieving 20.7 MPa in tensile strength. However, the electrical conductivity enhancement is modest. After incorporating MWCNTs as a secondary filler, the electrical conductivity significantly improved. The results show that the electrical conductivity of the SBR composite reinforced with 10 phr of CG and an additional 5 phr of MWCNTs surpasses that achieved by using 50 phr of CG solely. This enhancement can be attributed to the inherent excellent electric conductivity and high aspect ratio of MWCNTs, with their presence also preventing the re‐agglomeration of CG. Furthermore, within 10–40 phr content of CG, the mechanical reinforcement of CG‐SBR composites is enhanced with the addition of MWCNTs, whereas a minor decline in tensile strength is noted when the concentration of CG above 40 phr. Overall, the SBR composite reinforced with a synergistic combination of CG and MWCNTs is achieved, demonstrating both exceptional mechanical and conductive properties.Highlights Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites with different cryptocrystalline graphite (CG) phr and additional multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were characterized. CG‐SBR displays good mechanical property but limited electrical conductivity. Proper ratio of CG/MWCNTs significantly enhances various properties. MWCNTs act as a “bridge” structure connecting isolated CG filler in SBR matrix. MWCNTs network effectively prevents the re‐agglomeration of CG nanosheets.

Synthesis of cerium-based flame retardant containing phosphorus and its impact on the flammability of polylactic acid

The synthesis and characterization of [Ce2(PPPA)4(OH)2]·4H2O, wherein PPPA denotes 3-(hydroxy(phenyl)phosphoryl)propanoate, were conducted. Its potential as a flame-retardant additive for poly(L-lactic acid) (PLA) in conjunction with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was investigated. Remarkably, with just incorporation of the 1 % Ce-complex and 4 % APP, the resulting PLA composite (PLA-8) meets the V-0 standard, exhibiting an impressive limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 29.4 %. Moreover, the introduction of the Ce-complex leads to a significant extension of ignition time (TTI), a significant 24.1 % decrease in total heat release (THR) compared to pure PLA, and a notable increase in residual carbon rate from 0.3 % to 3.51 %. Although PLA-8 exhibits a minor decline of 8.7 % in tensile strength and 3.4 % in elongation at break, respectively, compared to pure PLA, there is a substantial improvement of 32.2 % in Young's modulus and 29.9 % in impact resistance. These results emphasise the potential of cerium-based phosphorus-containing flame retardants, with cerium playing a key role in enhancing the flammability characteristics of PLA. This study contributes to the development of sustainable and fire-resistant materials in polymer chemistry.

ChatGPT's Efficacy in Queries Regarding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Treatment Strategies for Women Experiencing Infertility.

This study assesses the efficacy of ChatGPT-4, an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) language model, in delivering precise and comprehensive answers to inquiries regarding managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility. The research team, comprising experienced gynecologists, formulated 460 structured queries encompassing a wide range of common and intricate PCOS scenarios. The queries were: true/false (170), open-ended (165), and multiple-choice (125) and further classified as 'easy', 'moderate', and 'hard'. For true/false questions, ChatGPT-4 achieved a flawless accuracy rate of 100% initially and upon reassessment after 30 days. In the open-ended category, there was a noteworthy enhancement in accuracy, with scores increasing from 5.53 ± 0.89 initially to 5.88 ± 0.43 at the 30-day mark (p < 0.001). Completeness scores for open-ended queries also experienced a significant improvement, rising from 2.35 ± 0.58 to 2.92 ± 0.29 (p < 0.001). In the multiple-choice category, although the accuracy score exhibited a minor decline from 5.96 ± 0.44 to 5.92 ± 0.63 after 30 days (p > 0.05). Completeness scores for multiple-choice questions remained consistent, with initial and 30-day means of 2.98 ± 0.18 and 2.97 ± 0.25, respectively (p > 0.05). ChatGPT-4 demonstrated exceptional performance in true/false queries and significantly improved handling of open-ended questions during the 30 days. These findings emphasize the potential of AI, particularly ChatGPT-4, in enhancing decision-making support for healthcare professionals managing PCOS-related infertility.

How does the e-cigarette industry respond to tax adjustments? Evidence from China.

China enacted an excise tax on e-cigarettes in November 2022, which offers a distinctive opportunity to examine the industry's reactions to this fiscal adjustment. This study delves into the industry's pricing strategies following the introduction of the excise tax, facilitating a thorough assessment of the subsequent impact on market dynamics and the government's revenue streams. We developed a TaXSiM model specifically tailored for e-cigarettes in China by integrating the country's e-cigarette tax framework. Our approach involved leveraging market data obtained from a representative product, the RELX Phantom Series, to ensure the model's effectiveness and relevance. The excise implementation of 2022 significantly heightened the tax burden on e-cigarettes, marking an increase of approximately 150 RMB per device and 19 RMB per cartridge. Despite these financial pressures, electronic cigarette firms exemplified by RELX, strategically endeavored to sustain competitiveness. Their approach involved initially implementing a 'Razor blade model' and eventually a 'comprehensive under-shifting' strategy, which mitigated the health impact of the tax hike, resulting in a relatively minor decline in sales while amplifying the impact on tax revenue. However, this strategic pricing maneuver came at a cost, as it led to a substantial decrease in profits, and therefore expedited a reshuffling of the industry by compelling smaller brands to leave the market rapidly. To effectively curb the use of e-cigarettes through tax policies, it is advisable to relocate the imposition of excise taxes on electronic cigarettes to the retail stage. This shift aims to narrow the scope for industry-level pricing strategies. Furthermore, this approach should be coupled with the introduction of an additional specific tax, strategically crafted to accentuate the health-related benefits associated with the excise taxation on electronic cigarettes.

Spatiotemporal modeling of under-five mortality and associated risk factors in Ethiopia using 2000–2016 EDHS data

BackgroundThe under-five mortality rate serves as a key indicator of the performance of a country’s healthcare system. Despite a minor decline, Ethiopia continues to face a persistently high under-five mortality rate across different zones. Thus, this study aimed to identify the risk factors of under-five mortality and the spatiotemporal variation in Ethiopian administrative zones.MethodThis study used the 2000–2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) data which were collected using a two-stage sampling method. A total of 43,029 (10,873 in 2000, 9,861 in 2005, 11,654 in 2011, and 10,641 in 2016) weighted sample under-five child mortality were used. The space-time dynamic model was employed to account for spatial and time effects in 65 administrative zones in Ethiopia.ResultsFrom the result of a general nesting spatial-temporal dynamic model, there was a significant space-time interaction effect [γ = -0.1444, 95% CI(-0.6680, -0.1355)] for under-five mortality. The increase in the percentages of mothers illiteracy [β = 0.4501, 95% CI (0.2442, 0.6559)], not vaccinated[β= 0.7681, 95% CI (0.5683, 0.9678)], unimproved water[β= 0.5801, CI (0.3793, 0.7808)] were increased death rates for under five children while increased percentage of contraceptive use [β= -0.6609, 95% CI (-0.8636, -0.4582)] and antenatal care unit visit > 4 times [β= -0.1585, 95% CI(-0.1812, -0.1357)] were contributed to the decreased under-five mortality rate at the zone in Ethiopia.ConclusionsEven though the mortality rate for children under five has decreased over time, still there is higher in different zones of Ethiopia. There exists spatial and temporal variation in under-five mortality among zones. Therefore, it is very important to consider spatial neighborhood’s and temporal context when aiming to avoid under-five mortality.

Interface engineering and defect passivation for enhanced hole extraction, ion migration, and optimal charge dynamics in both lead-based and lead-free perovskite solar cells

The study elucidates the potential benefits of incorporating a BiI3 interfacial layer into perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Using MAPbI3 and MAGeI3 as active layers, complemented by the robust TiO2 and Spiro-OMeTAD as the charge-transport-layers, we employed the SCAPS-1D simulation tool for our investigations. Remarkably, the introduction of the BiI3 layer at the perovskite-HTL interface significantly enhanced hole extraction and effectively passivated defects. This approach minimized charge recombination and ion migration towards opposite electrodes, thus elevating device performance relative to conventional configurations. The efficiency witnessed a rise from 19.28 to 20.30% for MAPbI3 and from 11.90 to 15.57% for MAGeI3. Additionally, MAGeI3 based PSCs saw an improved fill-factor from 50.36 to 62.85%, and a better Jsc from 13.22 to 14.2 mA/cm2, signifying reduced recombination and improved charge extraction. The FF for MAPbI3 based PSCs saw a minor decline, while the Voc slightly ascended from 1.24 to 1.25 V and Jsc from 20.01 to 21.6 mA/cm2. A thorough evaluation of layer thickness, doping, and temperature further highlighted the critical role of the BiI3 layer for both perovskite variants. Our examination of bandgap alignments in devices with the BiI3 interfacial layer also offers valuable understanding into the mechanisms fueling the observed improvements.

Assessment and Management Zoning of Ecosystem Service Trade-Off/Synergy Based on the Social–Ecological Balance: A Case of the Chang-Zhu-Tan Metropolitan Area

Clarifying the trade-offs/synergies of ecosystem services is crucial for achieving a win-win situation in economic development and ecological conservation. Past studies have lacked research on ecosystem service functional management zones that integrate socio-economic factors and ecological conservation, particularly based on predictive scenarios. Based on the above, this study innovatively established a multi scenario simulation model and framework (EST-EMZ) for the study of ecosystem service (ES) trade-off/synergy and ecological management zoning, combining remote sensing and socio-economic data from 2000 to 2020 in the Chang-Zhu-Tan Metropolitan Area (CZTMA). The model evaluates the dynamic trade-offs/synergies among different ecosystem services under various scenarios, aiming to seek the optimal management approach for enhancing the functionality and optimizing the structure of ESs in the future of the CZTMA. The results indicate the following: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the Ecosystem Service Value (ESV) of the CZTMA gradually declined from 601.57 billion yuan to 584.65 billion yuan. Under the three future scenarios, the ESV also decreased, with the Ecological Conservation Scenario (ECS) experiencing the most minor decline, and the Economic Priority Scenario (EPS) witnessing the most substantial decrease. (2) In the historical period and the 2030 predicted scenarios, there is a predominant synergy among paired ESs in the CZTMA. Throughout the study period, the region’s dominant ecosystem service bundle (ESB) is the high-service ecological regulation bundle, primarily located in the northeastern, western, and southern areas dominated by forests. (3) Based on ESV and urbanization intensity (UI), five different ecosystem management zones were identified: water balance zone (WBZ), coordinated improvement zone (CIZ), ecologically weak zone (EWZ), ecological conservation zone (ECZ), and ecological derivative zone (EDZ). Corresponding management and protection strategies for ecosystem services were proposed. The research findings offer potential solutions for optimizing land use and managing the trade-offs of ESs in metropolitan areas.

High-Noise Grayscale Image Denoising Using an Improved Median Filter for the Adaptive Selection of a Threshold

Grayscale image processing is a key research area in the field of computer vision and image analysis, where image quality and visualization effects may be seriously damaged by high-density salt and pepper noise. A traditional median filter for noise removal may result in poor detail reservation performance under strong noise and the judgment performance of different noise characteristics has strong dependence and rather weak robustness. In order to reduce the effects of high-density salt and pepper noise on image quality when processing high-noise grayscale images, an improved two-dimensional maximum Shannon entropy median filter (TSETMF) is proposed for the adaptive selection of a threshold to enhance the filter performance while stably and effectively retaining the details of the images. The framework of the proposed improved TSETMF algorithm is designed in detail. The noise in images is filtered by means of automatically partitioning a window size, the threshold value of which is adaptively calculated using two-dimensional maximum Shannon entropy. The theoretical model is verified and analyzed through comparative experiments using three kinds of classical grayscale images. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed improved TSETMF algorithm exhibits better processing performance than that of the traditional filter, with a higher suppression of high-density noise and denoising stability. This stronger ability while processing high-density noise is demonstrated by a higher peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of 24.97 dB with a 95% noise density located in the classical Lena grayscale image. The better denoising stability, with a noise density from 5% to 95%, is demonstrated by the minor decline in the PSNR of approximately 10.78% relative to a PSNR of 23.10 dB located in the classical Cameraman grayscale image. Furthermore, it can be advanced to promote higher noise filtering and stability for processing high-density salt and pepper noise in grayscale images.

Spatio-temporal Variation in Net Primary Productivity of Different Vegetation Types and Its Influencing Factors Exploration in Southwest China

Studying the spatiotemporal variation in vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) and exploring its influencing factors are of considerable practical significance for understanding the spatiotemporal variation in vegetation and for guiding ecological restoration and management projects based on local conditions. Based on MODIS NPP data, combined with in situ meteorological data, land use data, and vegetation type data, this study explores the spatiotemporal variation in different types of vegetation NPP in southwest China via the Mann-Kendall significance test and Theil-Sen Median slope estimator. It reveals the influencing factors of spatial differentiation of different types of vegetation NPP and the interaction between influencing factors in combination with stability analysis and Geo Detectors. The results revealed that on the temporal scale, from 2000 to 2021, vegetation NPP, NPPPre (vegetation NPP exclusively under the influence of climate change), and NPPRes (vegetation NPP exclusively under the influence of human activities) in southwest China showed a fluctuating upward trend. Among different vegetation types, NPP, NPPPre, and NPPRes exhibited an upward trend, except for a minor decline in NPPRes of tree vegetation at a rate of -0.183 g·(m2·a)-1. Among them, NPP, NPPPre, and NPPRes of economic vegetation showed the most significant upward rates, 5.96, 3.09, and 2.94 g·(m2·a)-1, respectively. On the spatial scale, the tree vegetation NPP with the most significant downward trend was mainly distributed in Tibet and southern Yunnan, while the economic vegetation NPP with the highest upward trend was primarily distributed in eastern Sichuan Province. The stability of vegetation NPP in southwest China presented a spatial distribution pattern of "low in the south and high in the north," and the average value of the correlation coefficient increased in the ascending order of arbor vegetation (0.101), shrub vegetation (0.105), herb vegetation (0.110), and economic vegetation (0.114). The interaction between surface temperature and relative humidity was the main influencing factor for spatial differentiation of vegetation NPP, while the interaction between sunshine duration and warmth index had the most significant impact on vegetation in southwest China, with an increasing percentage of 30.91%. Different types of vegetation had different requirements for different climatic factors, but their requirements for surface temperature and warmth index were significantly consistent. When the surface temperature was 21.03-28.49℃, and the warmth index was 106.46-167.2, the NPP of different vegetation types peaked. Under natural succession, the impact of climate change on vegetation was inversely proportional to the stability of the vegetation community. The arbor vegetation community with high stability was less affected, while the herb vegetation community with low stability was highly affected by climate. In contrast, the stability of economic vegetation was directly proportional to the impact of climate due to the influence of human activities. This study establishes a theoretical foundation for evaluating the impact of regional climate on the growth of different vegetation types and can be crucial for formulating ecological restoration and management strategies in southwest China that are adapted to the local conditions.

Augmenting pomelo juice quality through membrane-based clarification and bioactive compounds recovery

The presence of impurities, microorganisms, enzymes, suspended solids, and impurities in unclarified pomelo juice negatively affected the quality and shelf-life of the product in the food industry. The objective of this study focuses on the clarification of fresh pomelo juice using an ultrafiltration (UF) process. The study examined the influence of the operating pressure (OP) on the various quality attributes of pomelo juice, such as pH, total soluble solids (TSS), turbidity, color, total phenolic content (TPC), ascorbic acid content (AAC) and fouling mechanisms and permeate flux (J) behavior. To perform the clarification of pomelo juice, a 100 kDa membrane (polymeric) was used in a dead-end system, and the process was carried out in batch mode at OP values of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 bar. The findings revealed that increasing OP led to higher flux during ultrafiltration with limiting pressure (P lim). The limiting pressure (P lim) was anticipated to be beyond 3.0 bar due to the enzymatic pretreatment. The primary fouling mechanism during the clarification process was total pore blocking. After filtration, the resulting juice showed a significant reduction in turbidity of over 97%, while TSS was lowered by 7–17% compared to fresh juice. The pomelo juice was efficiently clarified while the pH remained stable at ∼3.8. The clarified juice showed a minor decline of 10.1–13.9% in TPC and a 10.8–16.7% reduction in AAC compared to the fresh unclarified juice. In conclusion, a pressure of 3.0 bar is recommended for conducting the ultrafiltration process in order to attain desirable flux behavior and optimum properties of the juice.

In-situ interfacial polymerization of zwitterionic nanofiltration membranes with anti-scaling performance

Mineral scaling caused by multivalent metal ions can significantly hinder the long-term operation of nanofiltration membranes. In this study, in-situ interfacial polymerization including a posttreatment by using a citric acid solution was employed in order to mitigate scaling on the membrane surface. Under the optimal conditions (15 ​min of posttreatment with a 2 ​M citric acid solution), the membrane water permeance increased from 5.76 ​± ​0.2 to 15.1 ​± ​1.8 ​L⋅m−2⋅h−1·bar−1 for the pristine and the optimal membrane, respectively. The molecular weight cut-off of the optimal membrane was 399 ​Da, which allows for the removal of organic micropollutants in groundwater. Furthermore, the resulting membrane showed a Na2SO4 and CaCl2 rejection of 92.5 ​± ​1.9 and 11.4 ​± ​1.3%, respectively. During the anti-scaling tests, the membrane fabricated with this strategy exhibited a minor decline of the water permeance of 33.5% when subjected to the same water recovery process, opposed to 65.8% for the pristine membrane. This proposed fabricating procedure thus provides an effective strategy for retarding membrane scaling in desalination applications.

Exploration of the Mn-O coordination regulated reaction stability of manganese oxides in NH3-SCR: Effect of deposited ammonium nitrates

Manganese oxide-based catalysts exhibit excellent low-temperature denitration efficiency, making them potential candidates for application. Herein, the relationship between reaction stability and phase structure for MnO2, Mn2O3 and Mn3O4 was disclosed. The NO conversion for Mn2O3 drastically reduced after 120 h reaction, while minor decline was detected for MnO2 and Mn3O4. Based on dedicate qualitative and quantitative analyses on the deposits over catalyst surface, deactivation trigged by ammonium nitrate (AN) deposition was confirmed. Different from penta-coordinated Mn4+ on MnO2 (110) and tri-coordinated Mn2+, penta-coordinated Mn4+ on Mn3O4 (101), the unique tetra-coordinated Mn3+ on Mn2O3 (200) could stabilize the nitrates and make it difficult to be removed via decomposition or reaction and accumulate continuously, which resulted in the significant deactivation. This research could not only unveil the poisoning mechanism of MnOx based catalysts, but also provide new insights into the relationship between the catalytic stability and surface Mn-O microstructure.

Antimicrobial veterinary drug sale pattern incorrelation with critically important antimicrobials for human use: A five-year studyin Montenegro.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat in veterinary medicine due to the excessive and inappropriate use of antimicrobial agents, compromising the effectiveness of these drugs. To combat AMR, the collection of data on the consumption of antibiotics is paramount, as there is a well-established connection between antibiotic use and AMR in both humans and food-producing animals. Hence, the current study aimed to generate measurable data concerning the sales patterns of antimicrobial drugs used in animal treatment in Montenegro over a five-year period (from 2017 to 2021). Furthermore, the study aimed to compare these sales figures with the overall sales of antimicrobial veterinary medicine products (AMVMPs) during the same period, with particular emphasis on the utilization of critically important antimicrobials (CIAs) for human use. Data on AMVMPs consumption from 2017 to 2021 were expressed in euros and were sourced from the Institute for Medicines and Medical Devices of Montenegro (CInMED) annual reports, complying with the regulatory framework of the Law on Medicines in this country. Research results indicate that the sales of AMVMPs increased from 2017 to peak in 2019, followedby a stable decline of 21.79% in 2021. However, the portion of selected CIAs AMVMPs in total sales experienced a minor decline from 2017 to 2019, followed by a noticeable 6.11% increase from 2019 to 2021. In order to address AMR challenges, these findings emphasize the importance of enhancing surveillance and monitoring of veterinary antimicrobial use, as well as CIAs for human use.

The Study of Temperature-Dependent Magnetic Properties Variation in CoCr2O4 Nanoparticles with (y = 0.8) and Without Coating Concentration of Non-Magnetic (SiO2)y

Abstract The present study investigates the temperature-dependent magnetic (MT) properties of CoCr2O4/(SiO2)y (y = 0 and 0.8) nanoparticles. Nanoparticles were synthesised by using the conventional sol–gel technique. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) method confirmed the normal spinel structure of CoCr2O4 nanoparticles. The main peak analysis of the XRD pattern using Debye–Scherrer’s formula probes the mean crystallite sizes for coated and uncoated nanoparticles, and the sizes based on which the probes have been carried out amount to 19 nm and 28 nm, respectively. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image showed the non-spherical shape of these nanoparticles. Field-cooled (FC) and zero field-cooled (ZFC) MT plots were taken by using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometer. Pure CoCr2O4 nanoparticles showed the ferrimagnetic transition at Curie temperature (Tc = 99 K) on an applied field (H) of 50 Oe. Tc decreased up to 95 K with the increase in 80% SiO2 concentration in CoCr2O4 nanoparticles. For pure samples, conical spiral temperature (TS) and lock-in transition temperature (TL) remain unchanged with increasing magnetic field because of strong spin–lattice coupling. However, for 80% SiO2 impurity, the decrease in Tc was attributed to the reduction in surface disorder with a minor decline in TS and TL. The Ms declined with a decrease in temperature because of the existence of stiffed/strong conical spin-spiral and lock-in states in pure CoCr2O4 nanoparticles, while nanoparticles with 80% coating SiO2 concentration showed abnormal behavior. The coercivity increases with a decrease in temperature due to a decrease in thermal fluctuations at low temperatures for both samples. The fitting of coercivity (Hc) versus temperature plot by using Kneller’s law has given the values of coercivity constant (α) and coercivity at average blocking temperature (TB) for both samples, which are α = 0.54, TB = 75 K and α = 1.59, TB = 81 K, respectively. Hence, the increase in the concentration of SiO2 decreased nanoparticles size and surface disorder in CoCr2O4 nanoparticles while enhancing Ms below spin-spiral state ordering.