Impact of Lanthanide (Nd3+, Gd3+, and Yb3+) Ionic Field Strength on the Structure and Thermal Expansion of Phosphate Glasses.

Phosphate glasses containing Nd3+, Gd3+, and Yb3+ as lanthanide ions are attractive for applications in laser materials, phototherapy lamps, and solar spectral converters. The composition-structure-property relation in this type of glass system is thus of interest from fundamental and applied perspectives. In this work, the impact of the differing ionic radius of Nd3+, Gd3+, and Yb3+ and consequent field strength on the physical properties of phosphate glasses is investigated, focusing ultimately on thermal expansion effects. The glasses were made by melting with a fixed concentration of the lanthanide ions having 50P2O5-46BaO-4Ln2O3 nominal compositions (mol %) with Ln = Nd, Gd, and Yb. The investigation encompassed measurements by X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical spectroscopy, density, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and dilatometry. XRD supported the amorphous nature of the glasses, whereas absorption and photoluminescence spectra showed the optical features of the Nd3+, Gd3+, and Yb3+ ions in the glasses. Oxygen speciation by XPS indicated an increase in nonbridging oxygens for the larger radii Nd3+ and Gd3+ ions relative to the host, contrasting with Yb3+. Phosphorus XPS analysis further supported the hypothesis that the P 2p binding energies of the glasses increased with the cation field strength of the lanthanides. The Raman spectra were interpreted based on glass depolymerization effects and the impact of Ln3+ ions with high field strength. Particularly, the band position of the symmetric out-of-chain nonbridging oxygen stretch, νs(PO2-), shifted to higher frequencies correlating with the Ln3+ field strength. Dilatometry ultimately revealed a steady decrease in the coefficient of thermal expansion for the glasses, which correlated linearly with Ln3+ field strengths and thus indicated to sustain increased glass rigidities. The various analyses performed thus illuminated the structural foundation of the thermomechanical behavior of the glasses connected with changes in the Ln3+ field strengths.

Mapping cumulative compound hydrometeorological and marine-induced risks on the NW Mediterranean coast.

Coastal risks in the Mediterranean are a result of the complex interplay between hydrometeorological and marine hazards. The region encompasses areas with varying degrees of vulnerability to these hazards, as well as spatial variations in exposure values, making it essential to adopt a comprehensive and nuanced approach to risk assessment and management. It is worth noting that hydrometeorological hazards, such as flash floods, can often have a greater impact than strictly coastal hazards, highlighting the need to consider the full range of potential risks. Therefore, coastal managers must adopt a multi-hazard approach to make sound risk management decisions. This study addresses this need using an index-based framework that assesses the integrated risk in time and space (hereafter referred to as cumulative compound risk) in coastal zones by aggregating the main hydrometeorological and marine hazards, the vulnerability of the territory to both types of hazards, and values at exposure. The framework is designed for use at large spatial scales (applied to a 1100 km coastline in this study), with the basic spatial unit being relevant for management (here set as the municipality in this study). Its application enables the assessment of spatial variations in integrated risk as well as individual hydrometeorological and marine contributions. The combined use of the indices and cluster analysis helps identify similarities and differences in the risk profile of spatial units, and thus, define homogeneous areas from a risk management perspective. In this study, the framework was applied to the Spanish Mediterranean coastline, an area representative of the climatic, geomorphological, and socioeconomic conditions of the Mediterranean coast.

In Situ Optical Microspectroscopy Study of Isothermal Bleaching of γ-Irradiated International Simple Glass.

The isothermal bleaching of γ-irradiated glass was studied at elevated temperatures (280-340 °C) by real-time in situ optical microspectroscopy for the first time. The study was performed on γ-irradiated (0.83 and 1.99 MGy) International Simple Glass (ISG) borosilicate nuclear waste simulant made by Mo-SCI Corporation (Rolla, MO, USA). The current investigation proposes real-time optical transmission methodology for the activation energy assessment of isothermal bleaching of γ-irradiated glass. The method is based on robust quantification of the Urbach energy decay rates and yields similar activation energies for both doses within ∼0.24-0.26 eV.

XANES analysis of phosphate glasses melted with Tb4O7 and SnO: evaluating the impact of valence states on structural, thermal, and luminescent properties.

Barium phosphate glasses were prepared with 0.5 mol% Tb4O7 added alongside SnO up to 5 mol% with the purpose of evaluating the resulting terbium and tin oxidation states and their impact on glass structural, thermal, and luminescent properties. Following material synthesis by melt-quenching, the composition-structure-property investigation was pursued encompassing measurements by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), Raman spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dilatometry, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. While XRD confirmed the amorphous nature of the glasses, results from XANES indicated that terbium occurs as terbium(III) with a predisposition for tin to exist as tin(IV) which decreased at high SnO content. The structural as well as the thermal properties appeared to be mostly impacted by the presence of tin(IV). Specifically, glass depolymerization was indicated to be induced by Sn4+ ions, and their concentration was observed to correlate with glass transition and softening temperatures. On the other hand, the tin(II) remnants were observed to exert an impact on the luminescent properties shifting light emission from the green towards the blue-green (cyan). It is indicated that Tb4O7 reacting to produce Tb2O3 supports the oxidation of tin(II) to tin(IV) which in turn dominates the physical properties. However, this was somewhat circumvented at the highest SnO content wherein tin(IV) appeared to be lower.

Understanding allochthonous marine litter in a Protected Area in the Amazon Coast.

Studies on international waste on the Amazon coast are lacking, leaving a substantial knowledge gap concerning the socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental repercussion of this issue. In this context, the objective of this study is to comprehensively characterize and trace the origins of allochthonous litter discovered on a beach situated within a Protected Area. Given this, the hypothesis of this study is that the international litters comes from vessels operating in the region. A total of 384 containers were collected, originating from 36 countries, with those located in Asia and Africa showing the highest prevalence. Among the bottles with identified expiration dates, 76 % are newly arrived, confirming our hypothesis. The presence of older waste may result from a combination of the absence of beach cleaning public services and local dynamic processes. While international engagement is necessary, local communities, along with the scientific community, have taken proactive measures to address the problem.

Biological and physical selectors for mobile biofilms, aerobic granules, and densified-biological flocs in continuously flowing wastewater treatment processes: A state-of-the-art review.

There have been significant advances in the use of biological and physical selectors for the intensification of continuously flowing biological wastewater treatment (WWT) processes. Biological selection allows for the development of large biological aggregates (e.g., mobile biofilm, aerobic granules, and densified biological flocs). Physical selection controls the solids residence times of large biological aggregates and ordinary biological flocs, and is usually accomplished using screens or hydrocyclones. Large biological aggregates can facilitate different biological transformations in a single reactor and enhance liquid and solids separation. Continuous-flow WWT processes incorporating biological and physical selectors offer benefits that can include reduced footprint, lower costs, and improved WWT process performance. Thus, it is expected that both interest in and application of these processes will increase significantly in the future. This review provides a comprehensive summary of biological and physical selectors and their design and operation.

Ewe early gestation supplementation with eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids affects the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue fatty acid profile and liver mRNA expression in the offspring.

Our objectives were to assess the effects of eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA) supplementation to pregnant ewes during the first third of gestation on their offspring's liver, adipose, and muscle tissues fatty acid (FA) profile and liver mRNA expression after a finishing period receiving diets with different FA profiles. Twenty-four post-weaning lambs, blocked by sex and body weight, were used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. The first factor was dam supplementation (DS) in the first third of gestation with 1.61% of Ca salts of palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) or Ca salts enriched with EPA-DHA. Ewes were exposed to rams with marking paint harnesses during the breeding. Ewes started DS at the day of mating, considered day 1 of conception. Twenty-eight days after mating, ultrasonography was used to confirm pregnancy, and nonpregnant ewes were removed from the groups. After weaning, the offspring lambs were supplemented (LS, second main factor) with two different FA sources (1.48% of PFAD or 1.48% of EPA-DHA) during the growing and fattening phase. Lambs were fed the LS diet for 56 d and sent to slaughter, where the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue samples were collected for FA analysis. Liver samples were collected for relative mRNA expression for genes associated with FA transport and metabolism. The data were analyzed as a mixed model in SAS (9.4). In the liver, the amount of C20:5 and C22:6 (P < 0.01) increased in lambs with LS-EPA-DHA, while some C18:1 cis FA isomers were greater in the lambs from DS-PFAD. In muscle, amounts of C22:1, C20:5, and C22:5 increased (P < 0.05) in lambs born from DS-EPA-DHA. The adipose tissue amounts of C20:5, C22:5, and C22:6 were greater (P < 0.01) in lambs from LS-EPA-DHA. Interactions (DS × LS; P < 0.05) were observed for DNMT3ß, FABP-1, FABP-5, SCD, and SREBP-1; having greater mRNA expression in liver tissue of LS-EPA-DHA, DS-PFAD and LS-PFAD, DS-EPA-DHA lambs compared with the lambs in the other two treatments. Liver ELOVL2 mRNA relative expression (P < 0.03) was greater in the offspring of DS-PFAD. Relative mRNA expression (P < 0.05) of GLUT1, IGF-1, LPL, and PPARγ increased in the liver from LS-EPA-DHA lambs. Dam supplementation during early gestation using with different FA sources changed the lipid FA profile in MT, LT, and SAT during the finishing period depending on the tissue and type of FA source administered during the growing phase.

Previous research has identified that polyunsaturated fatty acids take part in many health benefits, including fetal development during pregnancy. Also, other types of fatty acids, such as monounsaturated, have been linked to reduction of cardiovascular disease. Our study aimed to assess the effect of supplementation with different types of fatty acids, offered at 1.61% of the feed intake (as calcium salts of fatty acids), during the first 50 d of pregnancy in ewes and later continue the fatty acids supplementation during the growing phase of the offspring (at 1.48% of the feed intake). The proportions of different fatty acids were evaluated in the lambs' liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. Also, the mRNA expression of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism was analyzed in the lambs' liver. Our study demonstrated that depending on the type of fatty acids (polyunsaturated vs. monounsaturated) during early gestation, the profile of fatty acids changes in the different tissues evaluated. Also, fatty acid supplementation during early gestation modifies the expression of mRNA of genes involved in fat metabolism in the liver in the mature offspring.

Eu3+ Concentration Effects in Phosphate Glasses: An Experimental Study Linking Structural, Thermal, and Optical Properties.

Phosphate glasses incorporating large concentrations of Eu3+ ions are of interest for optical applications as their distinct red-emitting character resists deterioration with increasing Eu3+ content. Still, the low propensity for concentration quenching in these is not well understood, and thus evaluations linking structural, thermal, and optical properties with Eu3+ content are desired. In this work, 50P2O5-(50 - x)BaO-xEu2O3 (x = 0, 1, 2, 4, 6 mol %) glasses pertinent to photonics were prepared by melt-quenching and further scrutinized with regards to the composition-structure-property relationship. A comprehensive experimental investigation was carried out encompassing density and basic physical properties, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman scattering, dilatometry, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), optical absorption, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy with emission decay analysis. The data from six techniques are in strong agreement with the existence of a critical Eu2O3 concentration which divides the studied concentration range into two sections: (1) lower concentrations, up to about 2.5 (±0.1) mol %, with predominantly long-range (LR) effects of the modifier electrostatic field and (2) higher dopant concentrations, with predominantly short-range (SR) effects of the modifier field. The authors propose that LR interactions lead to shortening of the P-tetrahedral chains, while the SR interactions are expressed in increasing the covalent character of the bonds between the nonbridging oxygens and Eu3+ ions. Concentration correlations between diverse macroscopic data sets, such as densitometry, dilatometry, Raman scattering, calorimetry, and PL, concur synergistically, elucidating the microscopic physical LR-SR interplay between glass network former and the cationic electrostatic field of the modifiers.

Nanodiamond-promoted white light emission in Eu, Dy, and Cu-containing phosphate glass: quantitative analysis and colorimetric study.

A thorough analysis of glass containing Eu2 O3 and Dy2 O3 , or Eu2 O3 , Dy2 O3 , and CuO melted together with nanodiamond powder was pursued based on measurements of optical absorption, photoluminescence (PL) emission and excitation spectra, and colorimetry. Nanodiamond facilitated the stabilization of Cu+ and Eu2+ ions with blue-emitting characteristics that, along with yellow-emitting Dy3+ and red-emitting Eu3+ led to the white light-emitting glass. Novel intensity notations implemented in intensity-based spectral ratios, and difference intensity correlation analysis were proposed for the assessment of PL properties. The chromaticity and correlated colour temperature of the emission were ultimately investigated as a two-parametric problem based on: (1) the different ionic components; and (2) the various excitation wavelengths employed. The optical analysis approach adds to the characterization methods to further fundamental understanding and provide helpful analytical tools for designing materials for tunable white light-emitting devices.

Índice de eficiencia miocárdica en cardiópatas posterior a un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca / Myocardial efficiency index in patients with heart disease after a cardiac rehabilitation program

Resumen Objetivo: El índice de eficiencia miocárdica (IEM) correlaciona el consumo miocárdico de oxígeno (MVO2) con el consumo máximo de oxígeno, el cual proporciona información sobre la eficiencia cardiovascular (EfCV). En deportistas, el IEM mejora posterior a un microciclo de entrenamiento, en el paciente con enfermedad cardiovascular sometido a un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca y prevención secundaria PRHCyPS, el comportamiento del IEM podría resultar un estimador relacionado con mejoría derivado de un periodo de entrenamiento. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el comportamiento del IEM posterior a un PRCyPS en pacientes con cardiopatías y riesgo cardiovascular alto (RCVA). Métodos: Estudio de cohorte ambilectivo, descriptivo, analítico, no aleatorizado. Se seleccionaron pacientes con cardiopatías de etiología mixta con RCVA ingresados a un PRCyPS durante 4-6 semanas. A todos los pacientes se les realizó una prueba de ejercicio máximo en banda antes y después del PRCyPS. Se determinaron umbrales de consumo de oxígeno (VO2) pico, equivalentes metabólicos-carga, doble producto e IEM. Se estableció un punto de corte del IEM mediante una curva ROC con un valor de 7.37 con un área bajo la curva de 0.68 (IC 95%: 0.61-0.76; p < 0.001), sensibilidad 0.60 y 1-especificidad de 0.35. Resultados: Se incluyeron 193 pacientes con una media de edad de 62.3 años, en su mayoría del sexo masculino (66.2%). Se observaron porcentajes de cambio en el IEM -27.1% (p < 0.001), MET 43.1% (p < 0.001), doble producto 5.7% (p < 0.01) y MVO2: 8.3% (p < 0.01) al término del PRCyPS. Conclusiones: Se observó un cambio significativo en el IEM posterior a un PRCyPS, lo cual se asoció a una mejoría en la EfCV, sugiriendo que este pueda considerarse como un parámetro clínico que evaluar en los programas de rehabilitación cardiaca.

Abstract Objective: The myocardial efficiency index (MEI) correlates the Myocardial Oxygen Consumption (MVO2) with the Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO2max), this index provides information about the cardiovascular efficiency (CVEf). In athletes, the MEI improves after a micro-cycle training, however in patients with cardiovascular disease undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (CRP), IEM behavior could be a good estimator related to the improvement training period. The objective of this study was to determine the myocardial efficiency index behavior in patients with heart disease and high cardiovascular risk (HCVR) after a CRP. Methods: Ambilective, descriptive, analytical, non-randomized cohort study was conducted. Patients with heart disease of mixed etiology and HCVR admitted to a CRP for 4-6 weeks were selected. All patients performed a maximal exercise test in band before and after the CPR. Thresholds of VO2 peak, METs-load, Double product (DP) and MEI were determined. A cut-off point for the MEI was established using a ROC curve with a value of 7.37, area under the curve: 0.68 (95% CI 0.61 - 0.76, p < 0.001), sensitivity 0.60 and 1-specificity 0.35. Results: 193 patients with a mean age of 62.3 years were included, predominantly men (66.2%). Percentages changes in the MEI-27.1% (p < 0.001),METs-43.1% (p < 0.001),DP 5.7% (p < 0.01), and MVO2: 8.3% (p < 0.01) were observed at the end of CRP. Conclusions: Significant change in the MEI were observed after CRP associated to CVEf improvement, suggesting that this parameter could be considered as a good clinical tool in the CRP care programs.

Myocardial efficiency index in patients with heart disease after a cardiac rehabilitation program.

OBJECTIVE: The myocardial efficiency index (MEI) correlates the Myocardial Oxygen Consumption (MVO2) with the Maximum Oxygen Consumption (VO2max), this index provides information about the cardiovascular efficiency (CVEf). In athletes, the MEI improves after a micro-cycle training, however in patients with cardiovascular disease undergoing Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (CRP), IEM behavior could be a good estimator related to the improvement training period. The objective of this study was to determine the myocardial efficiency index behavior in patients with heart disease and high cardiovascular risk (HCVR) after a CRP. METHODS: Ambilective, descriptive, analytical, non-randomized cohort study was conducted. Patients with heart disease of mixed etiology and HCVR admitted to a CRP for 4-6 weeks were selected. All patients performed a maximal exercise test in band before and after the CPR. Thresholds of VO2 peak, METs-load, Double product (DP) and MEI were determined. A cut-off point for the MEI was established using a ROC curve with a value of 7.37, area under the curve: 0.68 (95% CI 0.61 - 0.76, p < 0.001), sensitivity 0.60 and 1-specificity 0.35. RESULTS: 193 patients with a mean age of 62.3 years were included, predominantly men (66.2%). Percentages changes in the MEI-27.1% (p < 0.001),METs-43.1% (p < 0.001),DP 5.7% (p < 0.01), and MVO2: 8.3% (p < 0.01) were observed at the end of CRP. CONCLUSIONS: Significant change in the MEI were observed after CRP associated to CVEf improvement, suggesting that this parameter could be considered as a good clinical tool in the CRP care programs.

OBJETIVO: El índice de eficiencia miocárdica (IEM) correlaciona el consumo miocárdico de oxígeno (MVO2) con el consumo máximo de oxígeno, el cual proporciona información sobre la eficiencia cardiovascular (EfCV). En deportistas, el IEM mejora posterior a un microciclo de entrenamiento, en el paciente con enfermedad cardiovascular sometido a un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca y prevención secundaria PRHCyPS, el comportamiento del IEM podría resultar un estimador relacionado con mejoría derivado de un periodo de entrenamiento. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el comportamiento del IEM posterior a un PRCyPS en pacientes con cardiopatías y riesgo cardiovascular alto (RCVA). MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte ambilectivo, descriptivo, analítico, no aleatorizado. Se seleccionaron pacientes con cardiopatías de etiología mixta con RCVA ingresados a un PRCyPS durante 4-6 semanas. A todos los pacientes se les realizó una prueba de ejercicio máximo en banda antes y después del PRCyPS. Se determinaron umbrales de consumo de oxígeno (VO2) pico, equivalentes metabólicos-carga, doble producto e IEM. Se estableció un punto de corte del IEM mediante una curva ROC con un valor de 7.37 con un área bajo la curva de 0.68 (IC 95%: 0.61-0.76; p < 0.001), sensibilidad 0.60 y 1-especificidad de 0.35. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 193 pacientes con una media de edad de 62.3 años, en su mayoría del sexo masculino (66.2%). Se observaron porcentajes de cambio en el IEM ­27.1% (p < 0.001), MET 43.1% (p < 0.001), doble producto 5.7% (p < 0.01) y MVO2: 8.3% (p < 0.01) al término del PRCyPS. CONCLUSIONES: Se observó un cambio significativo en el IEM posterior a un PRCyPS, lo cual se asoció a una mejoría en la EfCV, sugiriendo que este pueda considerarse como un parámetro clínico que evaluar en los programas de rehabilitación cardiaca.

Reconstruction of depressed skull fracture in school patients. Technique description.

OBJECTIVE: Depressed skull fractures are the result of trauma injuries. They are present in approximately 3% of patients who arrive to an emergency room with skull trauma. The main objective of surgical repair in depressed fractures is correction of cosmetic deformity and the prevention of infections. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective and transversal study was performed by our department between April 2016 and May 2017. Sixteen patients that underwent a craniotomy for skull trauma with depressed fracture were included in the study. The diagnosis was made by simple cranial CT scan alongside a three-dimensional reconstruction. RESULTS: Of the sixteen patients included, 5 were females (31.2%) and 11 males (68.8%). Twelve of the cases were an exposed fracture. In 7 cases, the fracture was located at parietal bone; 5 were located at frontal bone and 4 at the temporal bone. The average Glasgow coma score in the sample was 13. There were no complications nor deaths. CONCLUSIONS: The remodeling and repositioning of the autologous bone graft allow an adequate cosmetic result and it also avoids the placement of implants without increasing the costs and additional risks.

OBJETIVO: las fracturas de cráneo deprimidas son el resultado de lesiones traumáticas. Se encuentran en aproximadamente el 3% de los pacientes que se presentan en salas de emergencia con traumatismo craneal. El objetivo principal de la reparación quirúrgica en fracturas deprimidas es la corrección de la deformidad cosmética y la prevención de infecciones. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio retrospectivo y transversal en nuestro departamento entre abril de 2016 y mayo de 2017. Se incluyeron 16 pacientes que se sometieron a una craneotomía por traumatismo craneal y fractura deprimida. El diagnóstico se realizó mediante tomografía computarizada craneal simple con reconstrucción 3D. RESULTADOS: se incluyeron 16 pacientes, 5 casos femeninos (31,2%) y 11 masculinos (68,8%). En 12 casos se observó fractura expuesta. En 7 casos la fractura se localizó en el hueso parietal; 5 casos en el hueso frontal y 4 casos en hueso temporal. El puntaje promedio en la Escala de Coma de Glasgow fue 13. No hubo complicaciones o muertes. CONCLUSIONES: la remodelación y el reposicionamiento del injerto óseo autólogo permite un resultado cosmético adecuado evitando la colocación de implantes sin aumentar los costos y riesgos adicionales.

Tm3+ Ion Blue Emission Quenching by Pd2+ Ions in Barium Phosphate Glasses: Fundamental Analysis toward Sensing Applications.

The quenching effect of Pd2+ ions on the blue emission from Tm3+ was investigated for the first time using barium phosphate glass as model matrix. Glasses containing fixed Tm2O3 at 0.5 mol % and PdO up to 0.3 mol % (added relative to P2O5) were prepared by melting and first characterized for basic structural properties by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Raman spectroscopy. Thermal properties were then evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The focus was thereafter on evaluating the optical properties by absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy with decay kinetics assessment. XRD confirmed the amorphous nature of the glasses synthesized. The vibrational spectroscopy assessment consistently exhibited the IR- and Raman-active bands characteristic of phosphate glasses, showing no significant variation with PdO codoping. The DSC analysis revealed all glasses possessed high thermal stability assessed by the differences (ΔT = Tg - Tx ≥ 154 °C) between glass transition temperatures (Tg) and onset of crystallization (Tx). A tendency of the Tg values to increase with PdO contents was however exhibited. In addition, specific enthalpies of crystallization showed magnitudes decreasing with increasing PdO concentration, thus suggesting crystallization suppression by Pd2+. Concerning the optical properties, it was observed that codoping the glasses with PdO (0.1-0.3 mol %) led to the development of the visible Pd2+ d-d absorption band (peak ≈415-410 nm). In addition, drastic PL quenching of the Tm3+ blue emission around 452 nm (1D2 → 3F4 transition) was induced by Pd2+. Analyzing PL decay curves obtained by exciting Tm3+ ions at 359 nm while monitoring 452 nm emission revealed decreased 1D2 state lifetimes. Thus, a potential of Tm3+ for analytical sensing of Pd2+ in various matrices was suggested. Ultimately determining quenching constants from the PL data and based on the comparison of results from emission intensity and decay rates, likely Tm3+ → Pd2+ energy transfer processes underlying the PL quenching were proposed.

Thermodynamic Analysis of Intermediary Metabolic Steps and Nitrous Oxide Production by Ammonium-Oxidizing Bacteria.

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a greenhouse gas emitted from wastewater treatment, soils, and agriculture largely by ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB). While AOB are characterized by being aerobes that oxidize ammonium (NH4+) to nitrite (NO2-), fundamental studies in microbiology are revealing the importance of metabolic intermediates and reactions that can lead to the production of N2O. These findings about the metabolic pathways for AOB were integrated with thermodynamic electron-equivalents modeling (TEEM) to estimate kinetic and stoichiometric parameters for each of the AOB's nitrogen (N)-oxidation and -reduction reactions. The TEEM analysis shows that hydroxylamine (NH2OH) oxidation to nitroxyl (HNO) is the most energetically efficient means for the AOB to provide electrons for ammonium monooxygenation, while oxidations of HNO to nitric oxide (NO) and NO to NO2- are energetically favorable for respiration and biomass synthesis. The respiratory electron acceptor can be O2 or NO, and both have similar energetics. The TEEM-predicted value for biomass yield, maximum-specific rate of NH4+ utilization, and maximum specific growth rate are consistent with empirical observations. NO reduction to N2O is thermodynamically favorable for respiration and biomass synthesis, but the need for O2 as a reactant in ammonium monooxygenation likely precludes NO reduction to N2O from becoming the major pathway for respiration.

Genome Characterization and Pathogenicity of Two New Hyptis pectinata Viruses Transmitted by Distinct Insect Vectors.

Two newly described viruses belonging to distinct families, Rhabdoviridae and Geminiviridae, were discovered co-infecting Hyptis pectinata from a tropical dry forest of Ecuador. The negative-sense RNA genome of the rhabdovirus, tentatively named Hyptis latent virus (HpLV), comprises 13,765 nucleotides with seven open reading frames separated by the conserved intergenic region 3'-AAUUAUUUUGAU-5'. Sequence analyses showed identities as high as 56% for the polymerase and 38% for the nucleocapsid to members of the genus Cytorhabdovirus. Efficient transmission of HpLV was mediated by the pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) in a persistent replicative manner. The single-stranded DNA genome of the virus tentatively named Hyptis golden mosaic virus (HpGMV) shared homology with members of the genus Begomovirus with bipartite genomes. The DNA-A component consists of 2,716 nucleotides (nt), whereas the DNA-B component contains 2,666 nt. Pairwise alignments using the complete genomic sequence of DNA-A of HpGMV and closest relatives showed identities below the cutoff (<91% shared nt) established by the ICTV as species demarcation, indicating that HpGMV should be classified in a distinct begomovirus species. Transmission experiments confirmed that the whitefly Bemisia tabaci Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) is a vector of HpGMV.

Hepatitis C Elimination During a Global Pandemic: A Case Study of Resilience in Action.

Until the COVID-19 pandemic, San Francisco's hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination initiative, End Hep C SF, was expanding and refining HCV testing and treatment strategies citywide, making progress toward local HCV elimination goals. Although a shelter-in-place health order issued in March 2020 categorized HCV testing as an "essential service," most HCV testing and treatment immediately stopped until COVID-19-safe protocols could be implemented. During the 14 months of pandemic-related organizational closures, End Hep C SF transitioned to a 100% virtual model, maintaining regularly scheduled meetings. Community-based HCV antibody testing decreased 80% from February to April 2020, and HCV treatment initiation also decreased, although both services started to rebound in mid-to-late 2020, partially as a result of End Hep C SF collaborations. End Hep C SF service providers, clinicians, and advocates reported that the continuous communication and common agenda of End Hep C SF-2 principles of the collective impact initiative-served as a familiar touchpoint and helpful source of information during this isolating and uncertain time. Ultimately, End Hep C SF allowed us to continue HCV elimination strategies through 6 lessons learned: maintaining HCV treatment access through telehealth and mobile services; leveraging research studies that provided HCV testing and treatment; offering HCV screening and linkage to care in tandem with COVID-19-related initiatives; being flexible and inventive, such as administering HCV treatment to residents of shelter-in-place hotels; establishing a data dashboard to track HCV testing and treatment; and relying on partnerships to solve problems and avoid burnout.

Announcement Signals and Automatic Braking Using Virtual Balises in Railway Transport Systems.

In rail transport, various automatic protection systems are available to ensure the safe operation of trains and to facilitate automation and optimization tasks. For this purpose, a set of physical balises is used, which are placed at fixed points along the railway track. Based on the information provided by these balises, different information is displayed to the driver, and control actions are generated. The use of physical balises located at fixed points does not allow for automatic protection actions on sections of track where they are not installed. This is a major drawback as in many cases, temporary automatic protection actions are necessary on sections of the railway line without balises due to various circumstances (work on the track, accidents, etc.). To solve this problem, this paper presents a solution called announcement signals and automatic braking using virtual balises (ASAB-VB). This proposal allows the incorporation of virtual balises at points on the track where it is necessary to temporarily perform automatic protection actions. For this purpose, the ASAB-VB system allows obtaining the train position in real-time and storing a digital map of the track that will be made by each train. This digital map includes geographic information about the balises (both physical and virtual ones) located on the track. At the same time, the train position is obtained by merging the information provided by a GNSS, an odometer, and an inertial system (gyro and accelerometers).

Primary hepatic gastrinoma, extremely rare case presentation and its surgical resolution, in a third level hospital in Mexico.

The gastrinomas are rare functional neuroendocrine neoplasms, most are localized to the duodenum (70-90%) or the pancreas (2-30%), but less common ectopic sites have been reported. The primary hepatic gastrinoma is extremely rare, with less tan 40 cases reported in the medical literature. Its low incidence and its non specific clinical presentation make it a difficult disease to diagnose. Providing a timely diagnosis the patient can be treated by surgical resection with high chances of success. The objective of this paper is to describe a case of primary hepatic gastrinoma in Mexico, successfully treated by right liver segmentectomy.

Los gastrinomas son neoplasias neuroendocrinas funcionales raras, y la mayoría se localizan en el duodeno (70-90%) o en el páncreas (2-30%), pero también existen otras localizaciones ectópicas poco comunes. El gastrinoma hepático primario es extremadamente raro, con menos de 40 casos reportados en la literatura médica. Su baja incidencia y su presentación clínica inespecífica lo convierten en una enfermedad difícil de diagnosticar. Al realizar un diagnóstico oportuno puede ser tratado mediante resección quirúrgica con altas posibilidades de éxito. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un caso clínico de gastrinoma hepático primario en México, tratado de manera exitosa mediante segmentectomía hepática derecha.

Bainitic Ferrite Plate Thickness Evolution in Two Nanostructured Steels.

Bainitic ferrite plate thickness evolution during isothermal transformation was followed at the same holding temperatures in two nanostructured steels containing (in wt.%) 1C-2Si and 0.4C-3Si. A dynamic picture of how the bainitic transformation evolves was obtained from the characterization of the microstructure present at room temperature after full and partial transformation at 300 and 350 °C. The continuous change during transformation of relevant parameters influencing the final scale of the microstructure, YS of austenite, driving force of the transformation and evolution of the transformation rate has been tracked, and these variations have been correlated to the evolution of the bainitic ferrite plate. Instead of the expected refinement of the plate predicted by existing theory and models, this study revealed a thickening of the bainitic ferrite plate thickness as the transformation progresses, which is partially explained by changes in the transformation rate through the whole decomposition of austenite into bainitic ferrite.

Study of the Influence of Sintering Atmosphere and Mechanical Activation on the Synthesis of Bulk Ti2AlN MAX Phase Obtained by Spark Plasma Sintering.

The influence of the mechanical activation process and sintering atmosphere on the microstructure and mechanical properties of bulk Ti2AlN has been investigated. The mixture of Ti and AlN powders was prepared in a 1:2 molar ratio, and a part of this powder mixture was subjected to a mechanical activation process under an argon atmosphere for 10 h using agate jars and balls as milling media. Then, the sintering and production of the Ti2AlN MAX phase were carried out by Spark Plasma Sintering under 30 MPa with vacuum or nitrogen atmospheres and at 1200 °C for 10 min. The crystal structure and microstructure of consolidated samples were characterized by X-ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy. The X-ray diffraction patterns were fitted using the Rietveld refinement for phase quantification and determined their most critical microstructural parameters. It was determined that by using nitrogen as a sintering atmosphere, Ti4AlN3 MAX phase and TiN were increased at the expense of the Ti2AlN. In the samples prepared from the activated powders, secondary phases like Ti5Si3 and Al2O3 were formed. However, the higher densification level presented in the sample produced by using both nitrogen atmosphere and MAP powder mixture is remarkable. Moreover, the high-purity Ti2AlN zone of the MAX-1200 presented a hardness of 4.3 GPa, and the rest of the samples exhibited slightly smaller hardness values (4.1, 4.0, and 4.2 GPa, respectively) which are matched with the higher porosity observed on the SEM images.