Assemble of porous heterostructure thin film through CuS passivation for efficient electron transport in dye-sensitized solar cells.

Three different modified solar cells have been passivated with copper sulfide (CuS) on a TiO2 electrode and manganese sulfide (γ-MnS) hexagonal as photon absorbers. The MnS were prepared using (a-c) bis(N-Piperl-N-p-anisildithiocarbamato)Manganese(II) Complexes Mn[N-Piper-N-p-Anisdtc] as (MnS_1), N-p-anisidinyldithiocarbamato Mn[N-p-anisdtc] as (MnS_2) and N-piperidinyldithiocarbamato Mn[N-piperdtc] as (MnS_3). The corresponding passivated films were denoted as CM-1, CM-2, and CM-3. The influence of passivation on the structural, optical, morphological, and photochemical properties of the prepared devices has been investigated. Raman spectra show that the combination of this heterostructure is triggered by the variation in particle size and surface effect, thus resulting in good electronic conductivity. The narrow band gaps could be attributed to good interaction between the passivative materials on the TiO2 surface. CM-2 cells, stability studies show that the cell is polarized and current flows due to electron migration across the electrolyte and interfaces at this steady state. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) curve for the CM-3 with the highest current density promotes the electrocatalytic activity of the assembled solar cell. The catalytic reactions are further confirmed by the interfacial electron lifetimes in the Bode plots and the impedance spectra. The current-voltage (J-V) analysis suggests that the electrons in the conduction band of TiO2/CuS recombine with the semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and the iodolyte HI-30 electrolyte, resulting in 5.20-6.85% photo-conversions.

Stable Radicals in Dihydrophenazine Derivatives-Doped Epoxy Resin for High Photothermal Conversion.

Organic radicals exhibit great potential in photothermal applications, however, their innate high reactivity with oxygen renders the preparation of stable organic radicals highly challenging. In this work, a series of co-doped radical polymers ares prepared by doping dihydrophenazine derivatives (DPPs) into the epoxy resin matrix. DPPs can form radical species through the electron transfer process, which are further stabilized by the complex 3D network structure of epoxy resin. Experimental results show that the photothermal conversion efficiency is as high as 79.9%, and the temperature can quickly rise to ≈130 °C within 60 s. Due to the excellent visible light transmittance and mechanical properties of co-doped systems, this study further demonstrates their practical applications in energy-saving solar windows and thermoelectric power generation.

From Bands to Bypasses: Navigating Safety of Band Conversions to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Single Anastomosis Duodenoileostomy Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Revisional bariatric surgery is associated with higher perioperative complications over primary procedures. Adjustable gastric bands (AGB) continue to be the most frequently converted bariatric configuration. This study examines trends in current clinical indication and safety profile of the most frequently pursued AGB conversions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: MBSAQIP data from 2020 to 2022 was retrospectively analyzed in a cohort study examining 30-day postoperative outcomes after AGB conversion to sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), or single anastomosis duodenoileostomy (SADI). Descriptive statistics were used, including multivariable and 2:1 nearest neighbor matching analysis. RESULTS: This study included 19,335 AGB conversions, of which most were to SG (n = 11,736) followed by RYGB (n = 7442) and SADI (n = 157). While a majority were completed for weight loss, there were differences in distribution of primary indication for each conversion cohort, such as higher proportion of RYGB conversion for gastroesophageal reflux disease (18.7%) compared to SG (7.92%) and SADI (5.10%). Multivariable analysis demonstrates conversion to RYGB has significantly higher odds of 30-day major complications (OR 1.75, p < 0.001), reoperation (OR 2.08; p = 0.001), readmission (OR 1.69; p = 0.001), and emergency department visits (OR 1.50; p = 0.001) over SG. These risks and odds of reintervention (OR 1.75; p < 0.001) remained significantly higher after conversion to RYGB versus SG on matched analysis. None of these risks is significantly different between conversions to SADI versus SG in either multivariable or matched analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to AGB conversion to SG, single-stage conversion to RYGB had increased odds of perioperative complications while risks of conversion to SADI were not significantly different.

Validity of digital analysis versus manual analysis on orthodontic casts.

BACKGROUND: As artificial intelligence within digital processes continues to advance and replace conventional manual workflows, it is crucial that digital data are consistent with analog data. The aim was to evaluate the validity and time efficiency of digital cast analysis on digital models in comparison with the manual, gold standard, cast analysis on plaster models. METHODS: Cast analysis was performed on 30 patients in three various methods: manually measured variables on plaster models (MP), manually measured variables on digital three-dimensional models (MD), and automatically measured variables on digital three-dimensional models (AD) on digital models. Digital cast analysis was performed in CS Model+. Analyses included metrical and categorical variables and the required work time. Measurements in MD and AD were validated to MP. Validity of the metrical variables was analyzed with Bland-Altman, Dahlberg's formula, and paired sample t test. Categorical variables were validated by Cohen's Kappa. Work time was analyzed with Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: Metrical variables had measurement errors ranging 0.4 to 1.4 mm between MP-MD, and 0.6 to 3.2 mm between MP-AD. Observations of categorical variables had a moderate to strong (0.65 to 0.9) level of agreement between MP-MD, and a weak to moderate (0.4 to 0.68) level of agreement between MP-AD. Data for dental stage, vertical, and transversal relation was not provided in AD. Cast analysis was performed quicker digitally, P ≤ 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: Digital cast analysis is consistent with manual cast analysis for metrical variables. Analyses of categorical variables show a weak level of agreement with automatic digital analysis, such as space conditions and midline assessments. Digital cast analysis optimizes time compared with manual cast analysis, with automatic analysis being the fastest.

Early Successful Experiences of Surgical Conversion of Endoscopic Gastric Plication to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

BACKGROUND: The primary obesity surgery endoluminal (POSE) procedure is an innovative incision-less endoscopic bariatric procedure that is increasingly used. However, variable weight loss response and recurrence post-endoscopic bariatric procedures have at times necessitated laparoscopic bariatric conversion. The safety and approach of conversion to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), however, have been an active point of discussion within revisional bariatric surgery. METHODS: This retrospective review of four consecutive patients is the largest description of medium-term postoperative outcomes and technical highlights of a laparoscopic conversion of POSE to RYGB. Chart review was completed to evaluate patients' post-POSE clinical course and perioperative outcomes after surgical conversion. RESULTS: Early data suggests varied weight loss trajectory with POSE and marked improvement in weight response after surgical conversion. Qualitative review reveals successful single-staged conversions contrary to previous smaller case series describing staged conversions involving endoscopic removal of plications followed by RYGB. Review additionally reveals key perioperative considerations for successful conversions to include intraoperative endoscopy, upper gastrointestinal fluoroscopic studies, and at times computed tomography. The latter study and laparoscopic view of the post-POSE stomach challenge the prior notion that distal POSE allows for easy revision to LSG. CONCLUSIONS: Our case series underscores the complex multifactorial nature of metabolic disease and the increasing importance of a conscientious approach to conversion bariatric surgery as the adoption of POSE and the bariatric patient population continues to grow.

MOFs-Based Materials with Confined Space: Opportunities and Challenges for Energy and Catalytic Conversion.

Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are a very promising material in the fields of energy and catalysis due to their rich active sites, tunable pore size, structural adaptability, and high specific surface area. The concepts of "carbon peak" and "carbon neutrality" have opened up huge development opportunities in the fields of energy storage, energy conversion, and catalysis, and have made significant progress and breakthroughs. In recent years, people have shown great interest in the development of MOFs materials and their applications in the above research fields. This review introduces the design strategies and latest progress of MOFs are included based on their structures such as core-shell, yolk-shell, multi-shelled, sandwich structures, unique crystal surface exposures, and MOF-derived nanomaterials in detail. This work comprehensively and systematically reviews the applications of MOF-based materials in energy and catalysis and reviews the research progress of MOF materials for atmospheric water harvesting, seawater uranium extraction, and triboelectric nanogenerators. Finally, this review looks forward to the challenges and opportunities of controlling the synthesis of MOFs through low-cost, improved conductivity, high-temperature heat resistance, and integration with machine learning. This review provides useful references for promoting the application of MOFs-based materials in the aforementioned fields.

The emergence of 3D-printed firearms: An analysis of media and law enforcement reports.

3D-printed firearms, an emerging category of privately made firearms (PMF) produced beyond government control, have become increasingly prevalent due to technological advancements. They are now emerging as a cost-effective and reliable alternative to conventional firearms. Raised to public awareness following the 2013 release of the 3D-printed Liberator, these firearms are now more commonly encountered by police forces. This article analyses various reports involving 3D-printed firearms, reflecting the increasing encounters by law enforcement agencies. It examines 186 cases involving 3D-printed firearms, primarily from North America, Europe, and Oceania, highlighting a significant rise in incidents since 2021. These incidents include seizures, illicit uses, and online sales, with the firearms typically being hybrid models, Parts Kit Completions/Conversions (PKC), or firearm components such as auto sears. The study underscores the use of affordable equipment and materials for production, emphasizing the accessibility and potential risks of these firearms.

Thoracoscopic resection of lung masses is associated with excellent survival to discharge and good long-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To report and evaluate risk factors for conversion and perioperative and long-term outcomes in dogs undergoing thoracoscopic lung lobectomy for resection of lung masses. ANIMALS: 61 client-owned dogs. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study (June 11, 2008, to February 14, 2020) of data collected from medical records included signalment, results of diagnostic imaging, surgical technique, surgical and anesthesia time, mass location and size, hospitalization time, histopathologic findings, and long-term outcome. Follow-up was obtained from medical records and telephone contact with owners or referring veterinarians. RESULTS: Histopathology results were available for 60 of 61 tumors. Fifty-seven (95%) were considered primary lung tumors, of which 46 (81%) were carcinomas. Clean surgical margins were achieved in 46 of 52 (88%) dogs. Conversion from thoracoscopy to thoracoscopic-assisted or open surgery occurred in 16 of 61 (26%) dogs. Larger tumor diameter (≥ 5 cm) and lymphadenopathy detected by preoperative CT scan were significantly associated with increased risk of conversion. There was no association between conversion and patient weight, body condition score, and tumor location. All 61 dogs survived to discharge, and 56 of 57 were alive 1 month postoperatively. Median overall survival time was 311 days (95% CI, 224 to 570 days). Tracheobronchial lymphadenopathy on preoperative CT scans was associated with shorter postoperative survival (P < .001). Patient age, tumor diameter, adjuvant chemotherapy following surgery, and incomplete margins were not associated with survival time. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Dogs had high survival to discharge and good long-term prognosis following thoracoscopic lung lobectomy. However, larger tumor size and tracheobronchial lymphadenopathy may increase the likelihood of conversion.

A Polymer Nanocomposite with Strong Full-Spectrum Solar Absorption and Infrared Emission for All-Day Thermal Energy Management and Conversion.

Realizing efficient energy utilization from the heat source of the sun and the cold source of outer space is of great significance for addressing the global energy and environmental crisis. Materials with ideal full-spectrum solar absorption and infrared emission are highly desirable for adapting to the continuous weather dynamic throughout the day, nonetheless, their development remains challenging. Here, a polymer nanocomposite with full-spectrum strong solar (280-2500 nm) absorption ranging from 88.8% to 94.8% with an average value of 93.2% and full-spectrum high infrared (8-13 µm) emission ranging from 81.3% to 90.0% with an average value of 84.2%, is reported by melt-processing polypropylene and uniformly dispersed low-loading MXene nanosheets (1.9 vol%). The nanocomposite can achieve daytime photothermal enhancement of ≈50 °C and nighttime radiative cooling of 8 °C. The temperature difference throughout the day ensures all-day uninterrupted thermoelectric generation, yielding a power density output of 1.5 W m-2 (daytime) and 7.9 mW m-2 (nighttime) in real outdoor environment without any additional energy consumption. This work provides an impressive polymer nanocomposite with ideal full-spectrum solar absorption and infrared emission for all-day uninterrupted thermal energy management and conversion.

Succinic acid - A run-through of the latest perspectives of production from renewable biomass.

Succinic acid (SA) production is continuously rising, as its applications in diverse end-product generation are getting broader and more expansive. SA is an eco-friendly bulk product that acts as a valuable intermediate in different processes and might substitute other petrochemical-based products due to the inner capacity of microbes to biosynthesize it. Moreover, large amounts of SA can be obtained through biotechnological ways starting from renewable resources, imprinting at the same time the concept of a circular economy. In this context, the target of the present review paper is to bring an overview of SA market demands, production, biotechnological approaches, new strategies of production, and last but not least, the possible limitations and the latest perspectives in terms of natural biosynthesis of SA.

Catalysis with Two-Dimensional Metal-Organic Frameworks: Synthesis, Characterization, and Modulation.

The demand for the exploration of highly active and durable electro/photocatalysts for renewable energy conversion has experienced a significant surge in recent years. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), by virtue of their high porosity, large surface area, and modifiable metal centers and ligands, have gained tremendous attention and demonstrated promising prospects in electro/photocatalytic energy conversion. However, the small pore sizes and limited active sites of 3D bulk MOFs hinder their wide applications. Developing 2D MOFs with tailored thickness and large aspect ratio has emerged as an effective approach to meet these challenges, offering a high density of exposed active sites, better mechanical stability, better assembly flexibility, and shorter charge and photoexcited state transfer distances compared to 3D bulk MOFs. In this review, synthesis methods for the most up-to-date 2D MOFs are first overviewed, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages. Subsequently, a systematic analysis is conducted on the identification and electronic structure modulation of catalytic active sites in 2D MOFs and their applications in renewable energy conversion, including electrocatalysis and photocatalysis (electro/photocatalysis). Lastly, the current challenges and future development of 2D MOFs toward highly efficient and practical electro/photocatalysis are proposed.

Comparative analysis of sleeve conversions of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program 2020 Database.

BACKGROUND: Although the sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the dominant bariatric procedure, studies have shown conversion rates of up to 30%. These conversions are generally for weight regain (WR), insufficient weight loss (IWL) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Before 2020, details on why conversions were being performed were not collected in the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Participant Use Data File (PUF). Now, the indication for sleeve conversion is noted in the PUF, allowing identification and reporting sleeve conversion reasons. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to examine the reasons for SG conversions nationwide. SETTING: The 2020 MBSAQIP PUF. METHODS: The 2020 MBSAQIP PUF was examined to determine the reasons why SG were converted to other operations. The data field of "Revision/Conversion Final Indication" was used along with "Procedure type." Primary bariatric operations were excluded. Descriptive statistics were applied. Different reasons for conversion and operations were compared by preoperative characteristics and operative outcomes. RESULTS: There were 103,782 primary SG reported in the 2020 PUF. There were 7181 SG that were converted to other operations. The most common conversion (86.2%) was to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The main reason for SG conversion was GERD at 48.4%, followed by WR/IWL (41.9%). Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch and single-anastomosis duodenoileal bypass with sleeve patients differed significantly from RYGB patients in specific preoperative characteristics and operative outcomes. CONCLUSION: The most common procedure SG is converted to is the RYGB. GERD was the most common reason for SG conversion, followed by WR/IWL.

Channel Gating in Kalium Channelrhodopsin Slow Mutants.

Kalium channelrhodopsin 1 from Hyphochytrium catenoides (HcKCR1) is the first discovered natural light-gated ion channel that shows higher selectivity to K+ than to Na+ and therefore is used to silence neurons with light (optogenetics). Replacement of the conserved cysteine residue in the transmembrane helix 3 (Cys110) with alanine or threonine results in a >1,000-fold decrease in the channel closing rate. The phenotype of the corresponding mutants in channelrhodopsin 2 is attributed to breaking of a specific interhelical hydrogen bond (the "DC gate"). Unlike CrChR2 and other ChRs with long distance "DC gates", the HcKCR1 structure does not reveal any hydrogen bonding partners to Cys110, indicating that the mutant phenotype is likely caused by disruption of direct interaction between this residue and the chromophore. In HcKCR1_C110A, fast photochemical conversions corresponding to channel gating were followed by dramatically slower absorption changes. Full recovery of the unphotolyzed state in HcKCR1_C110A was extremely slow with two time constants 5.2 and 70 min. Analysis of the light-minus-dark difference spectra during these slow processes revealed accumulation of at least four spectrally distinct blue light-absorbing photocycle intermediates, L, M1 and M2, and a UV light-absorbing form, typical of bacteriorhodopsin-like channelrhodopsins from cryptophytes. Our results contribute to better understanding of the mechanistic links between the chromophore photochemistry and channel conductance, and provide the basis for using HcKCR1_C110A as an optogenetic tool.

Unplanned conversions of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy: short-term outcomes and suggested stepwise approach for a safe conversion.

OBJECTIVE: With the increased adoption of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy, the effects of unplanned conversions to an 'open' operation are ill-defined. This study aims to describe the impact of unplanned conversions of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy on short-term outcomes and suggest a stepwise approach for safe unplanned conversions during robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy. METHODS: This is an analysis of 400 consecutive patients undergoing robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy in a single high-volume institution. Data are presented as median (mean ± SD), and significance is accepted with 95% probability. RESULTS: Between November 2012 and February 2023, 184 (46%) women and 216 (54%) men, aged 70 (68 ± 11.0) years, underwent a robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy. Unplanned conversions occurred in 42 (10.5%) patients; 18 (5%) were converted due to unanticipated vascular involvement, 13 (3%) due to failure to obtain definitive control of bleeding, and 11 (3%) due to visceral obesity. Men were more likely to require a conversion than women (29 vs. 13, p = 0.05). Conversions were associated with shorter operative time (376 (323 ± 182.2) vs. 434 (441 ± 98.7) min, p < 0.0001) but higher estimated blood loss (675 (1010 ± 1168.1) vs. 150 (196 ± 176.8) mL, p < 0.0001). Patients that required an unplanned conversion had higher rates of complications with Clavien-Dindo scores of III-V (31% vs. 12%, p = 0.003), longer length of stay (8 (11 ± 11.6) vs. 5 (7 ± 6.2), p = 0.0005), longer ICU length of stay (1 (2 ± 5.1) vs. 0 (0 ± 1.3), p < 0.0001) and higher mortality rates (21% vs. 4%, p = 0.0001). The conversion rate significantly decreased over time (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Unplanned conversions of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy significantly and negatively affect short-term outcomes, including postoperative mortality. Men were more likely to require a conversion than women. The unplanned conversions rates significantly decreased over time, implying that increased proficiency and patient selection may prevent unplanned conversions. An unplanned conversion should be undertaken in an organized stepwise approach to maximize patient safety.

Efficient Photothermal Anti-/Deicing Enabled by 3D Cu2-x S Encapsulated Phase Change Materials Mixed Superhydrophobic Coatings.

Photothermal superhydrophobic surfaces are one of the most promising anti-/deicing materials, yet they are limited by the low energy density and intermittent nature of solar energy. Here, a coupling solution based on microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs) that integrates photothermal effect and phase change thermal storage is proposed. Dual-shell octahedral MPCMs with Cu2 O as the first layer and 3D Cu2-x S as the second layer for the first time is designed. By morphology and phase manipulation of the Cu2-x S shell, the local surface plasmonic heating modulation of MPCMs is realized, and the MPCM reveals full-spectrum high absorption with a photothermal conversion efficiency up to 96.1%. The phase change temperature and enthalpy remain in good consistency after 200 cycles. Multifunctional photothermal phase-change superhydrophobic composite coatings are fabricated by combining the hydrolyzed and polycondensation products of octadecyl trichlorosilane and the dual-shell MPCM. The multifunctional coatings exhibit excellent anti-/deicing performance under low temperature and high humidity conditions. This work not only provides a new approach for the design of high-performance MPCMs but also opens up an avenue for the anti-icing application of photothermal phase-change superhydrophobic composite coatings.

Investigating the availability of 3D-printed firearm designs on the clear web.

The release of the plans of the 3D-printed Liberator firearm sparked a wave of new designs from creators worldwide, resulting in an extensive collection of 3D-printed firearm plans, in particular blueprints, and parts available for almost unrestricted download on the internet. Identifying and categorizing the diverse range of 3D-printed firearms and components pose a challenge due to the abundance of designs available. Between 2021 and April 2023, data was collected on over 2,100 3D-printed firearm plans. While blueprints of fully 3D-printed firearms initially dominated the scene, hybrid designs and parts kit completions / conversions (PKC) have gained popularity for their improved reliability and performance. The now highly networked community offers considerable support with detailed instructions and procedures, providing precise guidance for construction. This systematic classification, grouping and structuration of the recorded data on the Clear Web supported the identification of patterns of the main threat trends related to 3D-printed firearms.

Revisional Procedures after Sleeve Gastrectomy for Weight Recurrence or Inadequate Weight Loss: An Analysis of the MBSAQIP Database.

INTRODUCTION: The safety of conversional bariatric procedures after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) for weight recurrence (WR) or inadequate weight loss (IWL) is debated due to limited evidence. Conversion options include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass (SADI), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS). We aimed to compare serious complications and mortality rates between these procedures within 30 days. METHODS: Using the 2020 and 2021 MBSAQIP databases, we identified patients who underwent a conversion from SG to RYGB, SADI, or BPD-DS. We performed a multivariable logistic regression to assess predictors of 30-day complications and mortality. RESULTS: Among 7388 patients (77.6% RYGB, 8.7% SADI, 13.7% BPD-DS), those undergoing SADI and BPD-DS had higher preoperative body mass index. Conversion reasons included WR (63.0%) and IWL (37.0%). SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative times (p < 0.001) and higher leak rates (p = 0.001). Serious complications, reoperations, readmissions, and 30-day mortality were similar across groups. Conversion procedure type was not an independent predictor of complications. CONCLUSION: RYGB was the most performed conversional procedure after SG. The study indicated a similar safety profile for revisional RYGB, SADI, and BPD-DS, with comparable 30-day complications and mortality rates. However, SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative time and higher leak rates.

Construction of Thiadiazole-Linked Covalent Organic Frameworks via Facile Linkage Conversion with Superior Photocatalytic Properties.

The establishment of facile synthetic routes to engineer covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with fully conjugated structure and excellent stability is highly desired for practical applications in optoelectronics and photocatalysis. Herein, a novel linkage conversion strategy is reported to prepare crystalline thiadiazole-linked COFs via thionation, cyclization, and oxidation of N-acylhydrazole bonds with Lawesson's reagent (LR). The as-prepared thiadiazole-linked COFs not only remain porosity and crystallinity, but enhance its chemical stability. Furthermore, thiadiazole-linked COFs are more favorable to lower exciton binding energy and promote π-electron delocalization over the whole reticular framework than N-acylhydrazone-linked COFs. Notably, the extended π-conjugation structure and decent crystallinity of the resulting TDA-COF are reflected by its higher photocatalytic H2 evolution rate (61.3 mmol g-1 in 5 h) in comparison with that (7.5 mmol g-1 ) of NAH-COF.

TOF1 and RRM3 reveal a link between gene silencing and the pausing of replication forks.

Eukaryotic DNA replication is accompanied by the disassembly and reassembly of nucleosomes and the transmission of epigenetic marks to the newly assembled chromatids. Several histone chaperones, including CAF-1 and Asf1p, are central to these processes. On the other hand, replication forks pause at numerous positions throughout the genome, but it is not known if and how this pausing affects the reassembly and maintenance of chromatin structures. Here, we applied drug-free gene silencing assays to analyze the genetic interactions between CAC1, ASF1, and two genes that regulate the stability of the paused replisome (TOF1) and the resumption of elongation (RRM3). Our results show that TOF1 and RRM3 differentially interact with CAF-1 and ASF1 and that the deletions of TOF1 and RRM3 lead to reduced silencing and increased frequency of epigenetic conversions at three loci in the genome of S. cerevisiae. Our study adds details to the known activities of CAF-1 and Asf1p and suggests that the pausing of the replication fork can lead to epigenetic instability.

Perspectives for Thermochemical Conversions of Lignocellulosic Biomass.

The biorefinery concept of lignocellulosic biomass with focus on thermochemical conversions will be presented and discussed with respect to the advantages, impacts, and methods. Analytics regarding the reaction mechanisms for the decomposition of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, respectively, will be presented along with new trends and perspectives within plasma and catalytic pyrolysis of lignin-fractions, artificial neural networks, hydrothermal liquefaction, torrefaction, gasification and combustion, pyrolysis and hydro pyrolysis as well as supercritical fluids for the catalytic thermochemical conversion of biomass and co-processing of upgraded bio-oil in fluidized catalytic cracking (FCC). A few examples are mentioned at this point; however, more details are given in the respective chapters. Concerning the catalytic conversion of lignin fractions the concept of the "catalyst philosophy" has been adapted from crude oil refining by using the hierarchical pore structure of the catalyst to arrive at the desired final products, like fuelcomponents or phenols. As a consequence, the same hierarchical catalysts can be applied in the co-processing of bio-oil with crude oil refined fractions. As a preliminary conclusion, the thermochemical conversion of lignocellulosic biomass has already reached a certain level of insight and understanding, however, there is still room for improvement and even a better understanding, and, last but not least, an upscaling to an industrial scale remains.